This past week was amazing and anxiety-inducing all at the same time. How on Earth was I going to start watching what I eat right before a holiday weekend, with my sister visiting, a wedding, a couple of lunch meetings, sending Bea off to school, and any number of other factors and issues?
By just doing it, that's how.
Life happens. There will ALWAYS be weddings and funerals and birthdays and celebrations and life events, and using them as an excuse to start "next week" or have a "bad day" is lame. Here is where I draw inspiration from Sooz: the girl drinks and socializes to her heart's content. She eats (essentially) whatever she wants, within reason. She balances her socializing with training like a mad woman and also being careful about her eating: if she has a sushi dinner date planned, she will eat gently the rest of the day to accommodate. If she wants a crazy insane cheeseburger, she works out to cancel out the intake. She's never minced words about that. If our law school tribe asks her to go out to lunch and we're going somewhere incompatible with her plan for that day, she simply declines. We all know it's not personal with Sooz...while we love her company, and she ours, we just get it. It's not personal to us; it's personal to her, and we all have priorities. I think law school has desensitized us to taking things personally; I am far more likely to take a "no" at face value and move on than ever before.
And so, thinking about Sooz, I approached last week by eating gently whenever nothing was planned, and trying not to worry too much about situations like Jon & Julia's wedding last Saturday, or the State Fair, or whatever. I hate denying myself when I'm out! What's the point of going to a wedding if you're going to feel guilty about eating wedding cake and boozing up the groom? (For the record, I probably need to temper this attitude a *little*. Fuzzy navels all night and three(!) pieces of wedding cake might be considered a little excessive, but I only did one tequila shot with the groom. Only one! And I do love myself the tequila. PATRON, baby!) I also did a little mitigation by choosing the vegetarian plated dinner, which turned out to be a delicious butternut squash ravioli with leeks and a very light cream sauce. NOM.
As for the State Fair, well... let's be frank: there was no temperance there. None can be had, I'm convinced. The choice then, is to go once a year and get it out of your system, and give yourself the day to enjoy, or to not go at all.
My goal for last week was to eat breakfast every day, and I'm proud to say I did it. I hauled the blender out, and when I didn't have breakfast plans, I made a 5-Factor Smoothie for myself, following Harley Pasternak's recipe (below). I plan to continue this, as it really worked for me. Smoothies are quick, portable and tasty, and have enough natural sugar in the fruit to sate my sweet tooth.
Mara had to work late last Thursday, so we put off our weigh-in until Saturday evening (last night), before we went out for her birthday(which...awesome! Donny Dirk's Zombie Den gets two thumbs up, and Psycho Suzi's lives up to its reputation.)
The Results
Last week's weight: 288.0
This week's weight: 285.6
Weekly change: -2.4
Net change: -2.4
Not bad for a busy, social week!
This week's goals: continue with the smoothies/breakfast, and exercise a total of 180 minutes. That's 3x an hour-long workout, or 6x 30 mins, or most likely, 2 hour-long sessions and 2 30 minute sessions. I'm going to make it a point to get baby Elle in the stroller and go for a nice long walk a couple times this week, and we have found a new babysitter, and the school pool opens this week for fall hours, so SWIMMING!
Showing posts with label me me me. Show all posts
Showing posts with label me me me. Show all posts
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Friday, September 4, 2009
Starting Over (Again)
As I mentioned in my last post, I'm restarting my efforts to lose weight. The fact is that I've been fat my entire adult life, and not much has changed that. However, I've never been this fat before, and it has really hit home with me. I can't train the way I want to, I hurt in places I shouldn't, and I'm far too young to be this disenchanted. I should love the way my body looks, feels and moves, and to be brutally honest, I never have. I don't know what it feels like.
But I want to find out.
I can't afford to go back to Weight W@tchers, and I wasn't thrilled with the leader I found here. She always emphasized "size" and "clothes" and yes, those things are important, but for someone like me, emphasis on health and good habits are far more motivating.
We're constantly bombarded with information on diet, and yet we're all still fat. I've come to the conclusion that it all comes down to the basics: portion control, exercise, eating whole foods and practicing everything in moderation, including moderation. In other words, yes, you must cheat in order to succeed. But then, it's not cheating, is it?
This may sound overly complicated, but I'm planning to do a combination of Biggest Loser, WW, Five-Factor and Insulin Resistance, taking the best of each of those programs and making it work for my situation. And I'm going to blog it, because I do well when I am accountable, and writing is my release. I don't want to turn this into a weight loss blog, any more than I wanted to turn it into a pregnancy blog or a law school blog or a triathlon blog or a "whatever" blog. It is meta, but that's okay, because it's me, and this is what I happen to be doing right now.
My dear friend and fellow fangirl Mara and I are doing this together. We are meeting on Thursday nights and she started a notebook for us with goals and weight. Each week, we'll walk two miles or so, and weigh in on her scale (hers is better than mine). I will post my weight and goal, for all the world and Internet to see, because it's embarrassing and public, and what I need to do.
So then. It begins.
The Program and Mission Statement:
I will(loosely) follow the P0ints program to measure food intake. I will watch calories, but I will also listen to my body and eat deliberately, stopping when full and fueling when hungry. I will balance my meals in order to track carbs. I will eat my fruits and veggies and drink my water. I will rest, and I will train.
I will turn to my friends and my blog in times of trouble. I will revel in my successes, and find resolve in my failures. There will be both. I will use the joy of cooking to learn how to fuel my body.
WEEK ONE
Weight: 288.0
Goal: Eat breakfast every day this week, without fail. This is a hard thing for me, as I've never been a breakfast eater. However, I have adopted Harley Pasternak's 5-Factor Smoothie as my breakfast of choice, and it is both tasty and quick.
But I want to find out.
I can't afford to go back to Weight W@tchers, and I wasn't thrilled with the leader I found here. She always emphasized "size" and "clothes" and yes, those things are important, but for someone like me, emphasis on health and good habits are far more motivating.
We're constantly bombarded with information on diet, and yet we're all still fat. I've come to the conclusion that it all comes down to the basics: portion control, exercise, eating whole foods and practicing everything in moderation, including moderation. In other words, yes, you must cheat in order to succeed. But then, it's not cheating, is it?
This may sound overly complicated, but I'm planning to do a combination of Biggest Loser, WW, Five-Factor and Insulin Resistance, taking the best of each of those programs and making it work for my situation. And I'm going to blog it, because I do well when I am accountable, and writing is my release. I don't want to turn this into a weight loss blog, any more than I wanted to turn it into a pregnancy blog or a law school blog or a triathlon blog or a "whatever" blog. It is meta, but that's okay, because it's me, and this is what I happen to be doing right now.
My dear friend and fellow fangirl Mara and I are doing this together. We are meeting on Thursday nights and she started a notebook for us with goals and weight. Each week, we'll walk two miles or so, and weigh in on her scale (hers is better than mine). I will post my weight and goal, for all the world and Internet to see, because it's embarrassing and public, and what I need to do.
So then. It begins.
The Program and Mission Statement:
I will(loosely) follow the P0ints program to measure food intake. I will watch calories, but I will also listen to my body and eat deliberately, stopping when full and fueling when hungry. I will balance my meals in order to track carbs. I will eat my fruits and veggies and drink my water. I will rest, and I will train.
I will turn to my friends and my blog in times of trouble. I will revel in my successes, and find resolve in my failures. There will be both. I will use the joy of cooking to learn how to fuel my body.
WEEK ONE
Weight: 288.0
Goal: Eat breakfast every day this week, without fail. This is a hard thing for me, as I've never been a breakfast eater. However, I have adopted Harley Pasternak's 5-Factor Smoothie as my breakfast of choice, and it is both tasty and quick.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Need To Do This
More later, I'm on my way to take the girls to the indoor waterpark. School started 3 weeks ago for me, next week for Bea. My sister is visiting this weekend with her (GASP) fiance (oh yeah, I've been away for a loooooooooong time), Dad came and visited a few weeks ago (!!!)
Yes, Internet. We're long overdue for a nice, long chat. Bring the booze.
In the mean time, I did a false start with WW in May/June, but I managed to keep off 10 of 15 pounds lost. Time to get back on the wagon, without the $20 per week group therapy. More on this too.
Food Diary for Today:
Breakfast
5-Factor Fuze Smoothie (Fage plain yogurt, 1 medium orange, 1/2 Fuze Mango)
5 pts/55 carbs/15g protein
Lunch
Amy's Tamale Verde frozen dinner
7 pts/55 carbs/ 7g protein
Snacks
1/2 fuze 2 pts
1 banana 2 pts
Cheese curds 3 pts
Dinner
No Name Salmon Filet 7pts
1 cup organic uncooked spinach 0 pts
For now, I'm going to follow a combination of the point system to calculate volume, the 5-Factor plan and insulin resistance guidelines to decide what to eat, and in general, limiting the amount of white bread, HFCS, and overall empty calories. I will probably also experiment with a "cheat day" - but I know myself fairly well, and I might start with a "cheat meal" once a week, rather than a full-on cheat day. Believe me when I tell you that one cheat day can be justified and extended into a full-on three day "weekend" of cheating.
I'm also going to be blogging about it. With any luck this will work and I can take a few pounds off before the holidays. Okay, more than a few. Okay, as much as I can. I'm hoping that's in the 25-35 pound range.
Yes, Internet. We're long overdue for a nice, long chat. Bring the booze.
In the mean time, I did a false start with WW in May/June, but I managed to keep off 10 of 15 pounds lost. Time to get back on the wagon, without the $20 per week group therapy. More on this too.
Food Diary for Today:
Breakfast
5-Factor Fuze Smoothie (Fage plain yogurt, 1 medium orange, 1/2 Fuze Mango)
5 pts/55 carbs/15g protein
Lunch
Amy's Tamale Verde frozen dinner
7 pts/55 carbs/ 7g protein
Snacks
1/2 fuze 2 pts
1 banana 2 pts
Cheese curds 3 pts
Dinner
No Name Salmon Filet 7pts
1 cup organic uncooked spinach 0 pts
For now, I'm going to follow a combination of the point system to calculate volume, the 5-Factor plan and insulin resistance guidelines to decide what to eat, and in general, limiting the amount of white bread, HFCS, and overall empty calories. I will probably also experiment with a "cheat day" - but I know myself fairly well, and I might start with a "cheat meal" once a week, rather than a full-on cheat day. Believe me when I tell you that one cheat day can be justified and extended into a full-on three day "weekend" of cheating.
I'm also going to be blogging about it. With any luck this will work and I can take a few pounds off before the holidays. Okay, more than a few. Okay, as much as I can. I'm hoping that's in the 25-35 pound range.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
2008 Wrap-Up
(Okay, I'm cheating. It's really February 3rd right now, but I wanted to post this. So I backlogged it. I suppose I could have posted it whilst in the hospital over New Years' but you know... baby and stuff.)
1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?
Did a stint as a stay-at-home mom. Very interesting.
2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I don't remember making any, but I did resolve this year to be kinder and gentler to people in thought, word and deed. So far it's been a good mindset to remember.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes! Jen and I both gave birth to beautiful baby girls, and we are waiting on Finn and Baby M (both of unknown gender) to make their appearances this spring. Sharing pregnancy with a girlfriend is an amazing and wonderful thing.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
No, I don't think so. It was a good year in that respect.
5. What countries did you visit?
Unfortunately, no international travel this year. Mom and Sis went to Ireland, though!
6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
A really awesome triathlon season. Boy did I ever miss training and competing -- more than I ever thought I would.
7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
January: girls' weekend in Chicago w/Kate & Sooz, saw Buddy Guy in concert
Mother's Day: found out I was pregnant
July 2nd: met John Mayer in person (Milwaukee Summerfest show)
July 3rd: St. Louis JM show
July 17-21st: Girls' weekend in Chicago w/the JM girls; JM Chicago show on the 18th.
August 30-31: Final two JM shows in Florida, road-tripping with Jen
September 8: The Girl's first day of school!
December 17: took a big fall on the ice on my way to school. (I'll tell this story later.)
December 29-30: induction and birth of Baby Bean.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Honestly? 2008 was a real year of transition for me. I think I had a lot of achievements, from massive improvement of my grades, to coming to terms with my parents' divorce and my relationship with my father, to finally getting the family on a budget so we could live without my part time job.
I also feel like my second birth experience vindicated my first, even though it turned out nothing like I thought it would.
9. What was your biggest failure?
Keeping the house decluttered. Honestly...I have laundry and general cleaning down pat. Clutter...just keeps growing like kudzu around here.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Pregnancy is not an illness...but I did have my fair share of ups and downs with this one, including dizzy flashes and serious exhaustion. I took a fall about two weeks before the Bean was born and I don't think I've ever experienced that much consistent pain in my life.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
Plane tickets and concert tickets for five (FIVE!) JM summer tour shows.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
The MN voter recount committee. They are doing a hell of a job in deciding the Senate race between Coleman and Franken. Here's to the process at work!
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Sadly, the same as last year: the Bush administration. Thank GOD they are gone and we can get back to the real work of America.
14. Where did most of your money go?
Target! (No really... Target, summer tour travel and probably hospital bills, once they start rolling in.)
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Meeting John Mayer and traveling/meeting new friends. My friends are easily the best benefit of being a JM fan.
16. What song will always remind you of 2008?
"Gravity" by Sara Barielles. For many, many reasons.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
a) happier or sadder? Much happier.
b) thinner or fatter? About the same, which is miraculous considering I was pregnant. Be gone, baby weight!
c) richer or poorer? About the same. Probably slightly richer, although that's more likely due to gas prices returning to normal than anything else...
18. What do you wish you’d done more of? Things with the Girl during the summertime. We're going to have to make a concerted effort to get out of the house more when school is out, even with the baby.
19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Complain, argue and feel sorry for myself. Life's too short.
20. How did you spend Christmas? On the couch, almost immobile and recovering from finals. Also preparing for the baby's arrival.
21. Did you fall in love in 2008?
Absolutely and without question.
22. What was your favorite TV program?
Weeds! We Netflix'ed the first 3 seasons and hello! Awesome!
23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
Hate is a strong word. I don't hate anyone. I did lose a friend this year, to a stupid and petty argument. I want to make amends, but need to figure out how.
24. What was the best book you read?
Hmmm... didn't get to read much this year, but I'll bite and say "Shadow Cities." Any book that mentions flying toilets gets a big thumbs up!
25. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Matt Nathanson! (Thanks, Jen!) Possibly re-discovering Jim Croce. Pandora overall rocks pretty hard. And Keri Noble is amazing.
26. What did you want and get?
A healthy baby, a lot of John Mayer, and a new car. (Heinrich!)
27. What did you want and not get?
To do a triathlon and get more in shape.
28. What was your favorite film of this year?
I don't know if I had one! I saw a lot of movies -- mostly of the kid variety, though.
29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
Went to Red Robin and had a bowling party!! (I was 31.)
30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Dean's List and a scholarship.
31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
Clearance rack at Motherhood Maternity!
32. What kept you sane?
My counselor, and having a Summer of Awesome. I needed the time and the perspective, and it made everything so, so much better.
33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
A-duh. And I got to meet him this year too!!
34. What political issue stirred you the most?
Equality in marriage. For everyone.
35. Who did you miss?
Jordana.
36. Who was the best new person you met? Can I have more than one? The JM Chicago girls! (Jen, Allison, Geneva, Linda, Amanda and Monica), and Cait and Mara. 2008 was fantastic for friend-making.
37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.
It's NEVER too late to let go and start over. And you never know what form or shape that will take.
38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
Joey, baby - don't get crazy
Detours, fences, I get defensive
I know you've heard it all before, so I don't say it anymore
I just stand by and watch you fight your secret war.
Although I used to wonder why, I used to cry 'til I was dry.
Still sometimes I get a strange pain inside,
Oh, Joey, if you're hurting so am I.
Joey, honey - I got some money.
All is forgiven; listen, listen...
And if I seem to be confused, I didn't mean to be with you.
And when you said I scared you, well I guess you scared me too.
But we got lucky once before, and I don't wanna close the door;
And if you're somewhere out there passed out on the floor,
Oh Joey, I'm not angry anymore.
And if I seem to be confused, I didn't mean to be with you.
And when you said I scared you, well I guess you scared me too.
But if it's love you're looking for, then I can give a little more
And if you're somewhere drunk and passed out on the floor,
Oh, Joey I'm not angry anymore...angry anymore...
1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?
Did a stint as a stay-at-home mom. Very interesting.
2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I don't remember making any, but I did resolve this year to be kinder and gentler to people in thought, word and deed. So far it's been a good mindset to remember.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes! Jen and I both gave birth to beautiful baby girls, and we are waiting on Finn and Baby M (both of unknown gender) to make their appearances this spring. Sharing pregnancy with a girlfriend is an amazing and wonderful thing.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
No, I don't think so. It was a good year in that respect.
5. What countries did you visit?
Unfortunately, no international travel this year. Mom and Sis went to Ireland, though!
6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
A really awesome triathlon season. Boy did I ever miss training and competing -- more than I ever thought I would.
7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
January: girls' weekend in Chicago w/Kate & Sooz, saw Buddy Guy in concert
Mother's Day: found out I was pregnant
July 2nd: met John Mayer in person (Milwaukee Summerfest show)
July 3rd: St. Louis JM show
July 17-21st: Girls' weekend in Chicago w/the JM girls; JM Chicago show on the 18th.
August 30-31: Final two JM shows in Florida, road-tripping with Jen
September 8: The Girl's first day of school!
December 17: took a big fall on the ice on my way to school. (I'll tell this story later.)
December 29-30: induction and birth of Baby Bean.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Honestly? 2008 was a real year of transition for me. I think I had a lot of achievements, from massive improvement of my grades, to coming to terms with my parents' divorce and my relationship with my father, to finally getting the family on a budget so we could live without my part time job.
I also feel like my second birth experience vindicated my first, even though it turned out nothing like I thought it would.
9. What was your biggest failure?
Keeping the house decluttered. Honestly...I have laundry and general cleaning down pat. Clutter...just keeps growing like kudzu around here.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Pregnancy is not an illness...but I did have my fair share of ups and downs with this one, including dizzy flashes and serious exhaustion. I took a fall about two weeks before the Bean was born and I don't think I've ever experienced that much consistent pain in my life.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
Plane tickets and concert tickets for five (FIVE!) JM summer tour shows.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
The MN voter recount committee. They are doing a hell of a job in deciding the Senate race between Coleman and Franken. Here's to the process at work!
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Sadly, the same as last year: the Bush administration. Thank GOD they are gone and we can get back to the real work of America.
14. Where did most of your money go?
Target! (No really... Target, summer tour travel and probably hospital bills, once they start rolling in.)
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Meeting John Mayer and traveling/meeting new friends. My friends are easily the best benefit of being a JM fan.
16. What song will always remind you of 2008?
"Gravity" by Sara Barielles. For many, many reasons.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
a) happier or sadder? Much happier.
b) thinner or fatter? About the same, which is miraculous considering I was pregnant. Be gone, baby weight!
c) richer or poorer? About the same. Probably slightly richer, although that's more likely due to gas prices returning to normal than anything else...
18. What do you wish you’d done more of? Things with the Girl during the summertime. We're going to have to make a concerted effort to get out of the house more when school is out, even with the baby.
19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Complain, argue and feel sorry for myself. Life's too short.
20. How did you spend Christmas? On the couch, almost immobile and recovering from finals. Also preparing for the baby's arrival.
21. Did you fall in love in 2008?
Absolutely and without question.
22. What was your favorite TV program?
Weeds! We Netflix'ed the first 3 seasons and hello! Awesome!
23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
Hate is a strong word. I don't hate anyone. I did lose a friend this year, to a stupid and petty argument. I want to make amends, but need to figure out how.
24. What was the best book you read?
Hmmm... didn't get to read much this year, but I'll bite and say "Shadow Cities." Any book that mentions flying toilets gets a big thumbs up!
25. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Matt Nathanson! (Thanks, Jen!) Possibly re-discovering Jim Croce. Pandora overall rocks pretty hard. And Keri Noble is amazing.
26. What did you want and get?
A healthy baby, a lot of John Mayer, and a new car. (Heinrich!)
27. What did you want and not get?
To do a triathlon and get more in shape.
28. What was your favorite film of this year?
I don't know if I had one! I saw a lot of movies -- mostly of the kid variety, though.
29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
Went to Red Robin and had a bowling party!! (I was 31.)
30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Dean's List and a scholarship.
31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
Clearance rack at Motherhood Maternity!
32. What kept you sane?
My counselor, and having a Summer of Awesome. I needed the time and the perspective, and it made everything so, so much better.
33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
A-duh. And I got to meet him this year too!!
34. What political issue stirred you the most?
Equality in marriage. For everyone.
35. Who did you miss?
Jordana.
36. Who was the best new person you met? Can I have more than one? The JM Chicago girls! (Jen, Allison, Geneva, Linda, Amanda and Monica), and Cait and Mara. 2008 was fantastic for friend-making.
37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.
It's NEVER too late to let go and start over. And you never know what form or shape that will take.
38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
Joey, baby - don't get crazy
Detours, fences, I get defensive
I know you've heard it all before, so I don't say it anymore
I just stand by and watch you fight your secret war.
Although I used to wonder why, I used to cry 'til I was dry.
Still sometimes I get a strange pain inside,
Oh, Joey, if you're hurting so am I.
Joey, honey - I got some money.
All is forgiven; listen, listen...
And if I seem to be confused, I didn't mean to be with you.
And when you said I scared you, well I guess you scared me too.
But we got lucky once before, and I don't wanna close the door;
And if you're somewhere out there passed out on the floor,
Oh Joey, I'm not angry anymore.
And if I seem to be confused, I didn't mean to be with you.
And when you said I scared you, well I guess you scared me too.
But if it's love you're looking for, then I can give a little more
And if you're somewhere drunk and passed out on the floor,
Oh, Joey I'm not angry anymore...angry anymore...
Monday, December 29, 2008
Birth Blogging
In a fit of geekdom and 21st century insanity, I have decided to liveblog the birth of the Bean.
As much as I can, I plan to update on progress, perhaps post a few pictures, and keep everyone updated on the arrival. If things go quiet for awhile, you can probably guess I'm either actively birthing or sleeping.
So far, the game plan goes as follows:
4pm: Call hospital; confirm arrival time.
5-7pm: Arrive at hospital, check-in, begin pre-induction treatment (likely low-dosage of Pitocin, for reasons to be explained later.)
7p-7a: Pre-induction.
7a-??: The Main Event!
Things to keep in mind:
1. This is my second child.
2. This is a planned induction.
3. I'm birthing in a hospital.
4. I'm attempting an unmedicated VBAC.
5. I may end up with a second c-section.
6. I'm not looking for advice.
7. I'm okay with everything in my plan so far, and I'm doing this for family and friends alike.
I love comments, but I will not be moderating anything, nor will I defend any decisions I've made. Explanations down the line, perhaps, but I won't change treatment decisions based upon random commentary. Please leave messages of support, and if I know who you are and we have a comfort level, then feel free to leave additional info. If this is the first time you've read my blog, I appreciate the sentiment but please limit yourself to positive vibes...as that is what I most desperately need during this endeavor.
I am fairly camera shy -- at my last birth, I declined the "moments after birth" photo and I plan to do the same here. It's just not my taste. There will be pix of the babe, tho.
Wish me luck! (And if the whole thing goes to hell and the next you hear from me is an update on New Year's with birth stats, so be it.)
As much as I can, I plan to update on progress, perhaps post a few pictures, and keep everyone updated on the arrival. If things go quiet for awhile, you can probably guess I'm either actively birthing or sleeping.
So far, the game plan goes as follows:
4pm: Call hospital; confirm arrival time.
5-7pm: Arrive at hospital, check-in, begin pre-induction treatment (likely low-dosage of Pitocin, for reasons to be explained later.)
7p-7a: Pre-induction.
7a-??: The Main Event!
Things to keep in mind:
1. This is my second child.
2. This is a planned induction.
3. I'm birthing in a hospital.
4. I'm attempting an unmedicated VBAC.
5. I may end up with a second c-section.
6. I'm not looking for advice.
7. I'm okay with everything in my plan so far, and I'm doing this for family and friends alike.
I love comments, but I will not be moderating anything, nor will I defend any decisions I've made. Explanations down the line, perhaps, but I won't change treatment decisions based upon random commentary. Please leave messages of support, and if I know who you are and we have a comfort level, then feel free to leave additional info. If this is the first time you've read my blog, I appreciate the sentiment but please limit yourself to positive vibes...as that is what I most desperately need during this endeavor.
I am fairly camera shy -- at my last birth, I declined the "moments after birth" photo and I plan to do the same here. It's just not my taste. There will be pix of the babe, tho.
Wish me luck! (And if the whole thing goes to hell and the next you hear from me is an update on New Year's with birth stats, so be it.)
Friday, December 5, 2008
Crossing A Threshold
Once again, it's Holidailies time!
Hello, my name is Kate.
(Hi, Kate.)
I haven't decided whether I will just do the daily prompts on the Holidailies site, or if I'll branch off on my own. I hope to accomplish 20-25 posts this year, and considering the month I have before me, that will be a fair task. Today's prompt is to introduce myself.
It's funny how such a menial task can encompass so many things. I could tell you that I'm a law student, or a massive John Mayer fan, or a wife or a mother, but you can find those things out on my blog layout.
I could tell you some of my deepest, darkest secrets, but this is a public blog, and I honestly don't think anything in my life is that deep, dark or exciting.
I could share my family drama (of which there is plenty, and more coming down the road) but I'm not ready to discuss the latest dirt just yet.
So I'll simply say this: I crossed a threshold yesterday at the OB's office...one which I didn't think I'd ever see in my lifetime. One that I am not proud of, that being 35 weeks pregnant does not assuage. It scares me. It has to do with my weight, and I'm having a hard time processing the fact. I weigh twice what some of the women in my law class weigh, and yes, I am currently housing two people, but the other person is about 2.5% of my current weight.
This is not encouraging.
The good news is that I'm fundamentally healthy, my blood pressure continues to astound my doctor (118/68 yesterday, thankyouverymuch) and all signs point to a healthy delivery at the end of this month.
Until then, I have five finals to study for, a Christmas to celebrate, a Girl who will turn six and a Boy who has the patience of a saint when I climb into bed at night. (No really. It takes me a good 3 minutes to get everything arranged properly and get comfortable. If you've ever been pregnant, you can relate.
If you get anything out of this post, it's that I am like the fly on the proverbial windshield -- this blog is me all over, and I am who I am. I hope you enjoy visiting my world for a little while, and please feel free to introduce yourself in my comments.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
My First Blogiversary
A year ago today, on a Sunday afternoon in the student lounge, mostly on a whim, I started this blog. I was sitting roughly where I am now (back table near the SBA office), and wondering if the third time would really be the charm.
I'll have to get back to you on that. So far, so good.
This year has been a rollercoaster. I doubt that many people survive their first year of law school without describing it that way.
When we moved here, I had no idea what the hell I was doing. Sure, I knew law school would be tough, that it would break me down intellectually and reshape my thinking, that it would be wonderful and horrible and the hardest academic work I'd ever done in my life, and that I would probably hate it (because everybody does) and love it (because everybody does) all at the same time.
All of the above is true. Plus more:
I found out that my gut instinct regarding friends was absolutely true. The five people I consider my closest friends are funny, amazing, joyous, bawdy, and in the exact same boat as I am. We've done everything together this past year, from studying to drinking, to boating on the river, to the State Fair, to celebrating landmarks.
I found out that school broke me down mentally as well as intellectually. I was broken my first semester, and it almost cost me everything. My grades suffered, I was depressed, and though I put on a good front for both myself and my friends, I knew deep down that it was as close to the edge as I ever wanted to be, and there was a strong wind blowing which could knock me over without warning. Thank God I figured out how to send up smoke signals and get the help I needed. Lord knows where I'd be without it.
I found out that my body *still* does not react well to changing birth control methods. The last time I did that was around six years ago, and the result of that change now rides a yellow school bus to kindergarten every day. I'll meet the result of this last change sometime after finals, and hopefully before New Year's.
I found out that a Summer of Awesome is just the remedy for a first year like mine.
I found out that things aren't always the way they seem.
I found out that I should give my husband more credit where it's due.
I found out that Craigslist is the ONLY way to go to sell a used car.
Mostly I found out that I'm the only one who can light a fire under my own ass, and it's got to be constantly tended and stoked if I want to accomplish anything.
Here's what I wrote last year, and I think it's apropos that I update it.
I'm a first year law student, or "1L." I live in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. I recently relocated here from another part of the Midwest, specifically to attend law school.
I am now a 2L, still living in the Twin Cities. It's looking more and more like we'll settle here after graduation. I'm okay with that.
I'm a wife. Happily married to my high school sweetheart, going on 8 1/2 years. To say it's been unadulterated bliss would be a big ass lie- no marriage is perfect. However, we love each other, we communicate, and we are very happy. He provides, he's a great father, he's my best friend. I can't imagine my life without him.
Still true. Our tenth (!) anniversary is next May. We'll have two kids, half a legal education and an amazing ride under our belts by then, and I hope like hell we're aging like good whiskey.
I'm a mother. We have a beautiful blonde-haired, blue-eyed, sassy-mouthed, loud-laughing, fast-running, ticklish-tummied, soon-to-be-five-year-old daughter. She puts the color inside of our world.
The Girl is now nearly six, and a kindergartener. She's looking forward to being a big sister to V2.0 come winter.
I'm a huge John Mayer fan...you may find my posts sprinkled with lyrics and references to JM and his various influences...and I make no apologies.
This year I got to meet John in person, and I saw him in concert five times this summer. I still make no apologies.
I am a triathlete. I am heading into my third season, and hopefully can talk a little about that. I am seriously hoping that I can fit some training time into my schedule.
If you see a very pregnant woman in a trisuit at the campus pool, that's me. I had to put my season on hold this year and I am looking forward to getting back into the groove this coming spring. I also hope the exercise-induced endorphins will help get me over the post-partum depression I fear might set in.
As of right now, life is good. The rock candy has melted...only diamonds now remain. I need to remember that.
No, I'm not the same girl I used to be lately -- see, you met me at an interesting time. I'm still on the lookout for clarity, but if this year has taught me anything, it's to be even more vigilant against gravity.
I don't know how many people actually read my blog, but for those of you that do, thanks.
I'll have to get back to you on that. So far, so good.
This year has been a rollercoaster. I doubt that many people survive their first year of law school without describing it that way.
When we moved here, I had no idea what the hell I was doing. Sure, I knew law school would be tough, that it would break me down intellectually and reshape my thinking, that it would be wonderful and horrible and the hardest academic work I'd ever done in my life, and that I would probably hate it (because everybody does) and love it (because everybody does) all at the same time.
All of the above is true. Plus more:
I found out that my gut instinct regarding friends was absolutely true. The five people I consider my closest friends are funny, amazing, joyous, bawdy, and in the exact same boat as I am. We've done everything together this past year, from studying to drinking, to boating on the river, to the State Fair, to celebrating landmarks.
I found out that school broke me down mentally as well as intellectually. I was broken my first semester, and it almost cost me everything. My grades suffered, I was depressed, and though I put on a good front for both myself and my friends, I knew deep down that it was as close to the edge as I ever wanted to be, and there was a strong wind blowing which could knock me over without warning. Thank God I figured out how to send up smoke signals and get the help I needed. Lord knows where I'd be without it.
I found out that my body *still* does not react well to changing birth control methods. The last time I did that was around six years ago, and the result of that change now rides a yellow school bus to kindergarten every day. I'll meet the result of this last change sometime after finals, and hopefully before New Year's.
I found out that a Summer of Awesome is just the remedy for a first year like mine.
I found out that things aren't always the way they seem.
I found out that I should give my husband more credit where it's due.
I found out that Craigslist is the ONLY way to go to sell a used car.
Mostly I found out that I'm the only one who can light a fire under my own ass, and it's got to be constantly tended and stoked if I want to accomplish anything.
Here's what I wrote last year, and I think it's apropos that I update it.
I'm a first year law student, or "1L." I live in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. I recently relocated here from another part of the Midwest, specifically to attend law school.
I am now a 2L, still living in the Twin Cities. It's looking more and more like we'll settle here after graduation. I'm okay with that.
I'm a wife. Happily married to my high school sweetheart, going on 8 1/2 years. To say it's been unadulterated bliss would be a big ass lie- no marriage is perfect. However, we love each other, we communicate, and we are very happy. He provides, he's a great father, he's my best friend. I can't imagine my life without him.
Still true. Our tenth (!) anniversary is next May. We'll have two kids, half a legal education and an amazing ride under our belts by then, and I hope like hell we're aging like good whiskey.
I'm a mother. We have a beautiful blonde-haired, blue-eyed, sassy-mouthed, loud-laughing, fast-running, ticklish-tummied, soon-to-be-five-year-old daughter. She puts the color inside of our world.
The Girl is now nearly six, and a kindergartener. She's looking forward to being a big sister to V2.0 come winter.
I'm a huge John Mayer fan...you may find my posts sprinkled with lyrics and references to JM and his various influences...and I make no apologies.
This year I got to meet John in person, and I saw him in concert five times this summer. I still make no apologies.
I am a triathlete. I am heading into my third season, and hopefully can talk a little about that. I am seriously hoping that I can fit some training time into my schedule.
If you see a very pregnant woman in a trisuit at the campus pool, that's me. I had to put my season on hold this year and I am looking forward to getting back into the groove this coming spring. I also hope the exercise-induced endorphins will help get me over the post-partum depression I fear might set in.
As of right now, life is good. The rock candy has melted...only diamonds now remain. I need to remember that.
No, I'm not the same girl I used to be lately -- see, you met me at an interesting time. I'm still on the lookout for clarity, but if this year has taught me anything, it's to be even more vigilant against gravity.
I don't know how many people actually read my blog, but for those of you that do, thanks.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Faith and Sex and God (and Banana Bread)
That's what we talked about this afternoon. I also baked two loaves of banana bread and the house smells heavenly right now. And the boy is happy to know that they are for US and not for Other People. (Apropos of nothing, the grocery store had lovely purpley pink roses on sale, and they are sitting next to me on the dining room table, also smelling heavenly.)
Adam stayed over last night and he's staying again tonight to save gas and get a bit of studying done before heading back north to hearth and wife. We finished class last night and had a lovely bit of conversation, and this morning, after I took the girl to school, we talked most of the morning on a number of subjects ranging from potty training to labor to the "boxers or briefs" question. I don't think I've had quite as much good conversation in a long time - but Adam is not only intelligent, he is well spoken and as such, knows how to argue constructively.
(He's also an ace houseguest, not only because he pitched in and Swiffered my kitchen floor but also because he bought me lunch at the Chinese buffet while we waited for his car to have four new tires installed.)
One of the things we discussed at length was faith and religion. Adam is a fairly confirmed atheist, whilst I, a fallen Catholic of the highest order, maintain a Christian faith. The thing I loved about our discussion was that it was not passionate - it was quite logical and philosophical, bordering on intellectual. We weren't trying to convince each other of our individual veracity - merely that we had divergent views and that those views could coexist. I told him that I thought he was a better Christian than most Christians I know, due to his sensitivity and caring - he is the sweetest guy on the face of the Earth and I can't imagine a more giving and gracious person.
I told him I thought that faith needed to be coupled with good works and a well-examined life. Living your parents' faith isn't living, unless you've determined that it is your faith as well and you can defend it. And even then, a constant questioning must arise - when you become complacent in your faith is when you have no faith at all.
Our discussion also reminded me of an old song by XTC. Here's a Youtube link, and the lyrics:
Dear God,
I hope you got the letter, and I pray you can make it better down here.
I don't mean a big reduction in the price of beer, but all the people that you made in your image, see them starving on their feet 'cause they don't get enough to eat from God
I can't believe in you
Dear God,
Sorry to disturb you, but I feel that I should be heard loud and clear.
We all need a big reduction in amount of tears and all the people that you made in your image, see them fighting in the street 'cause they can't make opinions meet about God
I can't believe in you
Did you make disease, and the diamond blue? Did you make mankind after we made you? And the devil too!
Dear God,
Don't know if you noticed, but your name is on a lot of quotes in this book, and us crazy humans wrote it, you should take a look, and all the people that you made in your image still believing that junk is true. Well I know it ain't, and so do you, dear God, I can't believe in...
I don't believe in...I won't believe in heaven and hell.
No saints, no sinners, no devil as well.
No pearly gates, no thorny crown.
You're always letting us humans down.
The wars you bring, the babes you drown.
Those lost at sea and never found, and it's the same the whole world 'round.
The hurt I see helps to compound that Father, Son and Holy Ghost is just somebody's unholy hoax, and if you're up there you'd perceive that my heart's here upon my sleeve.
If there's one thing I don't believe in it's you....dear God.
Adam stayed over last night and he's staying again tonight to save gas and get a bit of studying done before heading back north to hearth and wife. We finished class last night and had a lovely bit of conversation, and this morning, after I took the girl to school, we talked most of the morning on a number of subjects ranging from potty training to labor to the "boxers or briefs" question. I don't think I've had quite as much good conversation in a long time - but Adam is not only intelligent, he is well spoken and as such, knows how to argue constructively.
(He's also an ace houseguest, not only because he pitched in and Swiffered my kitchen floor but also because he bought me lunch at the Chinese buffet while we waited for his car to have four new tires installed.)
One of the things we discussed at length was faith and religion. Adam is a fairly confirmed atheist, whilst I, a fallen Catholic of the highest order, maintain a Christian faith. The thing I loved about our discussion was that it was not passionate - it was quite logical and philosophical, bordering on intellectual. We weren't trying to convince each other of our individual veracity - merely that we had divergent views and that those views could coexist. I told him that I thought he was a better Christian than most Christians I know, due to his sensitivity and caring - he is the sweetest guy on the face of the Earth and I can't imagine a more giving and gracious person.
I told him I thought that faith needed to be coupled with good works and a well-examined life. Living your parents' faith isn't living, unless you've determined that it is your faith as well and you can defend it. And even then, a constant questioning must arise - when you become complacent in your faith is when you have no faith at all.
Our discussion also reminded me of an old song by XTC. Here's a Youtube link, and the lyrics:
Dear God,
I hope you got the letter, and I pray you can make it better down here.
I don't mean a big reduction in the price of beer, but all the people that you made in your image, see them starving on their feet 'cause they don't get enough to eat from God
I can't believe in you
Dear God,
Sorry to disturb you, but I feel that I should be heard loud and clear.
We all need a big reduction in amount of tears and all the people that you made in your image, see them fighting in the street 'cause they can't make opinions meet about God
I can't believe in you
Did you make disease, and the diamond blue? Did you make mankind after we made you? And the devil too!
Dear God,
Don't know if you noticed, but your name is on a lot of quotes in this book, and us crazy humans wrote it, you should take a look, and all the people that you made in your image still believing that junk is true. Well I know it ain't, and so do you, dear God, I can't believe in...
I don't believe in...I won't believe in heaven and hell.
No saints, no sinners, no devil as well.
No pearly gates, no thorny crown.
You're always letting us humans down.
The wars you bring, the babes you drown.
Those lost at sea and never found, and it's the same the whole world 'round.
The hurt I see helps to compound that Father, Son and Holy Ghost is just somebody's unholy hoax, and if you're up there you'd perceive that my heart's here upon my sleeve.
If there's one thing I don't believe in it's you....dear God.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Since Last We Spoke...
...I survived my finals. Nowhere near a knock-out-of-the-ballpark, but I feel somewhat better about them than I did last semester. And now begins the waiting game - horrible to feel that uneasy queasiness in your feeling, for a good month.
...I am officially a rising 2L. That feels SO good. There is no station lowlier in life (beyond that of "freshman" in any circumstance) than that of a 1L. We hear all the time how life gets easier second year, and yet, we also hear how we will yearn for the easy days of Contracts and Torts. I don't think I will ever yearn for Contracts - sorry, Professor B.
...I turned 31. I had a fantastic birthday, courtesy of the boy and my law school besties. My SIL got me two tabloids with JM on the cover and a book. Yay for printed reading material!! We celebrated with a bowling party - something I've always wanted to do but never had the opportunity. Jon (and the lovely and talented Julia), Sooz, Kate, Derek, SIL, the boy and the girl all came out and rolled like The Big Lebowski. Good thing it wasn't Shabbos. Derek even ordered a White Russian in honor of the evening's theme.
...I celebrated Mother's Day. The girl was wonderful enough to wish me a very happy one, and the boy was kind enough to wrangle her so I could have a (relatively) peaceful morning before heading off to school for our last study session and final. It was a lovely spring Minnesota morning - just a touch of chill in the early morning air, but the sun was high and warm, and I had a smile on my face. Not much better than that.
After my final, most of the kids went on the party bus that had been rented for our after-1L debauchery. However, Kate and I chose to stay behind and head back to Casa Thompson for some pizza, R&R and Rock Band. It was all good.
...The girl had her preschool spring program. She was the narrator for her class, and she stood, dressed in one of her finest spring frocks, at the lecturn in the church, spoke clearly and slowly into the microphone and read The Very Hungry Caterpillar whilst her classmates acted out the book's actions. It was terribly cute and I was so amazingly proud of her - she's had her daddy's shy streak for ages and this was the first inclination I've had that she's got a touch of the outgoing. She basically memorized the book but she did it without any prompting from her teacher.
...JM got himself a new girlfriend. This one probably has the highest profile of all of them - and this is new territory because he is 9 years younger than she. He's always dated younger women, and by appearances, always seemed to be the more dominant personality in the relationship. Not that the women he's dated are wet noodles by any means - but this one is older, more experienced, and seems to know exactly what she wants. I think this might be what he needs - he's young and coltish, but he's been very public about his desire for a wife and family, and given his background, it's no surprise. I think if he falls hard enough, she might be the one to kick his ass and get him to settle down. I also think that if it's going to happen, it'll happen pretty quickly since she doesn't have kids and when you're 39, I'm told you can feel your ovaries shriveling.
...The Summer of Awesome has officially kicked off. As I write this, I am sitting at my mother's house in the hometown, the girl has had breakfast and I'm headed up to take a shower, and then go shopping. We arrived last night and I got to see Jordana for a bit, and I'm just relaxing. I think I'm going to head down to the lake today for some rejuvenation, and then the girl and I are going to just do some serious goofing off. We'll head home after the weekend - I have a feeling I will miss the boy too much if I stay any longer.
Next up? Phoenix, then Theories of Conflict for four days. In the meantime, spring cleaning the house - I'm going to try and reclaim another couple areas of the house. I'm also going to go through all the girl's clothes and thin the herd. (And trust me, it's a herd worth thinning. The child has more clothes than the law allows, and has since before she was born.)
...I am officially a rising 2L. That feels SO good. There is no station lowlier in life (beyond that of "freshman" in any circumstance) than that of a 1L. We hear all the time how life gets easier second year, and yet, we also hear how we will yearn for the easy days of Contracts and Torts. I don't think I will ever yearn for Contracts - sorry, Professor B.
...I turned 31. I had a fantastic birthday, courtesy of the boy and my law school besties. My SIL got me two tabloids with JM on the cover and a book. Yay for printed reading material!! We celebrated with a bowling party - something I've always wanted to do but never had the opportunity. Jon (and the lovely and talented Julia), Sooz, Kate, Derek, SIL, the boy and the girl all came out and rolled like The Big Lebowski. Good thing it wasn't Shabbos. Derek even ordered a White Russian in honor of the evening's theme.
...I celebrated Mother's Day. The girl was wonderful enough to wish me a very happy one, and the boy was kind enough to wrangle her so I could have a (relatively) peaceful morning before heading off to school for our last study session and final. It was a lovely spring Minnesota morning - just a touch of chill in the early morning air, but the sun was high and warm, and I had a smile on my face. Not much better than that.
After my final, most of the kids went on the party bus that had been rented for our after-1L debauchery. However, Kate and I chose to stay behind and head back to Casa Thompson for some pizza, R&R and Rock Band. It was all good.
...The girl had her preschool spring program. She was the narrator for her class, and she stood, dressed in one of her finest spring frocks, at the lecturn in the church, spoke clearly and slowly into the microphone and read The Very Hungry Caterpillar whilst her classmates acted out the book's actions. It was terribly cute and I was so amazingly proud of her - she's had her daddy's shy streak for ages and this was the first inclination I've had that she's got a touch of the outgoing. She basically memorized the book but she did it without any prompting from her teacher.
...JM got himself a new girlfriend. This one probably has the highest profile of all of them - and this is new territory because he is 9 years younger than she. He's always dated younger women, and by appearances, always seemed to be the more dominant personality in the relationship. Not that the women he's dated are wet noodles by any means - but this one is older, more experienced, and seems to know exactly what she wants. I think this might be what he needs - he's young and coltish, but he's been very public about his desire for a wife and family, and given his background, it's no surprise. I think if he falls hard enough, she might be the one to kick his ass and get him to settle down. I also think that if it's going to happen, it'll happen pretty quickly since she doesn't have kids and when you're 39, I'm told you can feel your ovaries shriveling.
...The Summer of Awesome has officially kicked off. As I write this, I am sitting at my mother's house in the hometown, the girl has had breakfast and I'm headed up to take a shower, and then go shopping. We arrived last night and I got to see Jordana for a bit, and I'm just relaxing. I think I'm going to head down to the lake today for some rejuvenation, and then the girl and I are going to just do some serious goofing off. We'll head home after the weekend - I have a feeling I will miss the boy too much if I stay any longer.
Next up? Phoenix, then Theories of Conflict for four days. In the meantime, spring cleaning the house - I'm going to try and reclaim another couple areas of the house. I'm also going to go through all the girl's clothes and thin the herd. (And trust me, it's a herd worth thinning. The child has more clothes than the law allows, and has since before she was born.)
Friday, May 2, 2008
Friday Five (Stolen From...Somewhere)
1. Describe where you grew up:
I grew up in the biggest small town in the world, on the western shore of Lake Michigan, north of Chicago.
2. Do you wear any jewelery?
On a regular basis, I wear my wedding ring. Occasionally I will wear the diamond stud earrings my sister bought for me, or my engagement or university rings. Do glasses count as jewelry?
3. What do you have too much of?
Homework. Clothing - definitely. Credit card debt, though that's being worked on, and rather diligently, I might add.
4. Who is a fool?
Hmmm...I can think of a few... Bush, Cheney, Pawlenty, Schwartzenegger, anyone who doesn't believe in choice (it's not going away), freedom to marry (it's going to happen in my lifetime), and equal rights for all under the law.
5. What's your nickname?
Hmmm...haven't had a steady nickname for a long time - people call me by my initials because that's how I generally sign emails (K-S-T). Anyone who knew me before high school might still call me Kati... my online buds usually shorten my preferred moniker to "K8". My sister calls me Katie-bear on occasion, sometimes "big sis" or sometimes we call each other "Sissy." And of course, I am the boy's "Boo" as he is mine. :)
Contracts final in 21 hours. But who's counting?
I grew up in the biggest small town in the world, on the western shore of Lake Michigan, north of Chicago.
2. Do you wear any jewelery?
On a regular basis, I wear my wedding ring. Occasionally I will wear the diamond stud earrings my sister bought for me, or my engagement or university rings. Do glasses count as jewelry?
3. What do you have too much of?
Homework. Clothing - definitely. Credit card debt, though that's being worked on, and rather diligently, I might add.
4. Who is a fool?
Hmmm...I can think of a few... Bush, Cheney, Pawlenty, Schwartzenegger, anyone who doesn't believe in choice (it's not going away), freedom to marry (it's going to happen in my lifetime), and equal rights for all under the law.
5. What's your nickname?
Hmmm...haven't had a steady nickname for a long time - people call me by my initials because that's how I generally sign emails (K-S-T). Anyone who knew me before high school might still call me Kati... my online buds usually shorten my preferred moniker to "K8". My sister calls me Katie-bear on occasion, sometimes "big sis" or sometimes we call each other "Sissy." And of course, I am the boy's "Boo" as he is mine. :)
Contracts final in 21 hours. But who's counting?
Thursday, May 1, 2008
May Day, Mayday
I typed in the address of one of my old (failed) blogs - and lo and behold, it's still there! I perused the entries a bit, remembering that it helped the last time I wanted to lose weight. I think I will delete it, but I wanted to preserve a few of the old entries.
It's interesting to see what I thought of myself a few years ago. I remember that girl - the one who was starting a new job and taking a full year to train for her first triathlon. I also weigh 40 pounds more than that girl did when she stopped blogging, and a lot has happened since then. I'd like to remember a lot about who that girl was, and why she looked so great and felt so good about herself.
I am still active and working out, and food is still my drug. I need to get over the stress and anxiety (lo, that I had an attitude like Sooz - girl lets it all roll off her like water off a duck's back.) and get to doing.
Summer of Awesome = Summer of Awesome Me.
From the old blog:
June 7, 2005
Let me say this: I love McDonald's.
Seriously. I have a massive addition to anything with the golden arches on its packaging. I love nothing better for breakfast than a Bacon, Egg and Cheese biscuit sandwich with a lovely golden brown hash brown. The drink can vary- if I'm feeling healthy (or guilty) it is usually a bottle of water or an orange juice. If I don't care, it's a small diet coke.
My standard order otherwise is a 10-piece chicken nugget value meal with a diet coke, and a double cheeseburger with ketchup only.
This is only part of the reason why I now weigh 253 pounds at this point in my life.
Yesterday, I read the "I have made a decision" essay over at Oprah.com, and while I can't say that Oprah's voice came down from the heavens, imbuing my soul with the will to change, all heavenly light beaming down and weight-loss cherubim harmonizing, it did make me think.
I feel like shit.
Previously, I'd lost about 25 pounds- I was about 229 or so and feeling pretty good. Then: new job, new stress, inability to keep working out on my prior schedule, holidays, the ever-present lure of Mickey D's, and a free employee cafeteria at lunch (Lord have mercy...the DESSERTS)...and here I am.
I've never been thin- the closest I can figure I was to a healthy weight was probably when I was working out in college (yes, true) and I lost 15 pounds in a semester that I took a weight-training and aerobics course for credit. I think I was about 195 at that point. Still in all, I was pretty healthy, and I gleaned from that course that I probably could be smaller if I worked at it.
Life got in the way.
Now, I have to get in the way of my life. College is long past and I've got a daughter to think about. My dad was just diagnosed with adult-onset diabetes, and my grandmother has had it for over 25 years. So we have some genetics going on here. I am also having digestive issues, a-plenty... but we won't get into the particulars of my biohazardous waste. Promise.
So...here I am, one of thousands out there with a diet blog. Maybe it will help to write down my thoughts, maybe not. I will probably try to write down what I eat, because in the past, it has helped...I just hate carrying around those little journal thingies they give you at Weight Watchers.
Speaking of the almighty WW: here's my first goal. We have an at-work program at my job. Next session starts June 26. It's 15 weeks long. I have to do the bridesmaid thing at a wedding in October. That's about the same time frame. Mo over at Mopie.com has set a WW goal for herself: 25 pounds in 12 weeks (averaging about a 2 pound loss).
I'm going to do the same: 30 pounds in 15 weeks.
God help me, I'm going to do this, once and for all. French fries be damned.
June 8, 2005
Oreos.
There are Oreos afoot in my office...double stuf Oreos and Golden Oreos and they are in the cube next to me and God help me I've resisited for over 2 hours.... and now it's 11AM and I'm hungry for lunch and I need to eat the chicken breast and not the pepperoni pizza...and I should go walking but I don't want to go and get all schvitzy in the 88 degree heat but I really should...
And it's somebody's birthday here in office land, and he's bringing treats very very soon...and I will resist. I will resist.
I have decided to resist. (Oh, shit. Now it's about Oprah again.)
June 9, 2005
...it's so hard for me to keep control in social situations, but it's a weakness I need to get professional help with. Also: I had Reasoning on my side- I had a beer, I needed food to soak it up, and there were no healthy alternatives. Also? It was 5pm and I was hungry. And it counted as dinner.
July 12, 2005
As of yesterday on the WW scale, I'm now 251.2. That would be 10.6 pounds in 3 1/2 weeks. I've been to the gym no less than 3 times each week (and usually it's 4-5). I've discovered the absolute serenity and joy of a morning workout (joy in a 5am wakeup call? Who knew??)
The fitness center also overlooks a very benign piece of land- it's probably 40 x 50 of lawn surface that borders the building on one side, and the path around the lake on the other. Boring, right? Not if you see what I see.
I see the finish line for the Danskin Women's Triathlon 2006. I see cheering family members, a big sign that says "RUN FINISH", volunteers wearing red t-shirts, and a swarm of women competitors running in to the sound of victory. It is the actual finish area for the Danskin- not just a visualization.
When something chocolate screams my name, I say "triathlon" to myself. Turn. Walk away. Will I celebrate when an occasion presents itself? Of course. Just not to excess.
And I will compete in, and finish, the 2006 Chicagoland Danskin Women's Triathlon.
More old entries later - I'm having a good time rereading them. And thinking a lot about how I can recapture some of that momentum.
It's interesting to see what I thought of myself a few years ago. I remember that girl - the one who was starting a new job and taking a full year to train for her first triathlon. I also weigh 40 pounds more than that girl did when she stopped blogging, and a lot has happened since then. I'd like to remember a lot about who that girl was, and why she looked so great and felt so good about herself.
I am still active and working out, and food is still my drug. I need to get over the stress and anxiety (lo, that I had an attitude like Sooz - girl lets it all roll off her like water off a duck's back.) and get to doing.
Summer of Awesome = Summer of Awesome Me.
From the old blog:
June 7, 2005
Let me say this: I love McDonald's.
Seriously. I have a massive addition to anything with the golden arches on its packaging. I love nothing better for breakfast than a Bacon, Egg and Cheese biscuit sandwich with a lovely golden brown hash brown. The drink can vary- if I'm feeling healthy (or guilty) it is usually a bottle of water or an orange juice. If I don't care, it's a small diet coke.
My standard order otherwise is a 10-piece chicken nugget value meal with a diet coke, and a double cheeseburger with ketchup only.
This is only part of the reason why I now weigh 253 pounds at this point in my life.
Yesterday, I read the "I have made a decision" essay over at Oprah.com, and while I can't say that Oprah's voice came down from the heavens, imbuing my soul with the will to change, all heavenly light beaming down and weight-loss cherubim harmonizing, it did make me think.
I feel like shit.
Previously, I'd lost about 25 pounds- I was about 229 or so and feeling pretty good. Then: new job, new stress, inability to keep working out on my prior schedule, holidays, the ever-present lure of Mickey D's, and a free employee cafeteria at lunch (Lord have mercy...the DESSERTS)...and here I am.
I've never been thin- the closest I can figure I was to a healthy weight was probably when I was working out in college (yes, true) and I lost 15 pounds in a semester that I took a weight-training and aerobics course for credit. I think I was about 195 at that point. Still in all, I was pretty healthy, and I gleaned from that course that I probably could be smaller if I worked at it.
Life got in the way.
Now, I have to get in the way of my life. College is long past and I've got a daughter to think about. My dad was just diagnosed with adult-onset diabetes, and my grandmother has had it for over 25 years. So we have some genetics going on here. I am also having digestive issues, a-plenty... but we won't get into the particulars of my biohazardous waste. Promise.
So...here I am, one of thousands out there with a diet blog. Maybe it will help to write down my thoughts, maybe not. I will probably try to write down what I eat, because in the past, it has helped...I just hate carrying around those little journal thingies they give you at Weight Watchers.
Speaking of the almighty WW: here's my first goal. We have an at-work program at my job. Next session starts June 26. It's 15 weeks long. I have to do the bridesmaid thing at a wedding in October. That's about the same time frame. Mo over at Mopie.com has set a WW goal for herself: 25 pounds in 12 weeks (averaging about a 2 pound loss).
I'm going to do the same: 30 pounds in 15 weeks.
God help me, I'm going to do this, once and for all. French fries be damned.
June 8, 2005
Oreos.
There are Oreos afoot in my office...double stuf Oreos and Golden Oreos and they are in the cube next to me and God help me I've resisited for over 2 hours.... and now it's 11AM and I'm hungry for lunch and I need to eat the chicken breast and not the pepperoni pizza...and I should go walking but I don't want to go and get all schvitzy in the 88 degree heat but I really should...
And it's somebody's birthday here in office land, and he's bringing treats very very soon...and I will resist. I will resist.
I have decided to resist. (Oh, shit. Now it's about Oprah again.)
June 9, 2005
...it's so hard for me to keep control in social situations, but it's a weakness I need to get professional help with. Also: I had Reasoning on my side- I had a beer, I needed food to soak it up, and there were no healthy alternatives. Also? It was 5pm and I was hungry. And it counted as dinner.
July 12, 2005
As of yesterday on the WW scale, I'm now 251.2. That would be 10.6 pounds in 3 1/2 weeks. I've been to the gym no less than 3 times each week (and usually it's 4-5). I've discovered the absolute serenity and joy of a morning workout (joy in a 5am wakeup call? Who knew??)
The fitness center also overlooks a very benign piece of land- it's probably 40 x 50 of lawn surface that borders the building on one side, and the path around the lake on the other. Boring, right? Not if you see what I see.
I see the finish line for the Danskin Women's Triathlon 2006. I see cheering family members, a big sign that says "RUN FINISH", volunteers wearing red t-shirts, and a swarm of women competitors running in to the sound of victory. It is the actual finish area for the Danskin- not just a visualization.
When something chocolate screams my name, I say "triathlon" to myself. Turn. Walk away. Will I celebrate when an occasion presents itself? Of course. Just not to excess.
And I will compete in, and finish, the 2006 Chicagoland Danskin Women's Triathlon.
More old entries later - I'm having a good time rereading them. And thinking a lot about how I can recapture some of that momentum.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Shampoo, Rinse, Repeat
My hair is long.
Really long.
Not quite Crystal Gale-long, but long. Past my bra strap long. I love it.
It is a weird brownish reddish blondish color that usually settles on normal brown after a few days without a wash. It's very very thick, coarsely textured, and in certain spots, has enough natural curl to border on kinky. It gets pretty wild at times but I have neither the skill nor the fortitude to wrestle my mane through a flat iron every damn day. I usually go for a trim and blow out every six weeks.
I plan to keep it long until such time as professionalism dictates that I cut it. I hope that whatever job I have as an attorney is one where they don't care how long my hair is.
I only wash it about once a week, despite my level of activity, mostly because I find if I rinse out the chlorine, and brush through it a couple times a day, it stays in good shape. I can ponytail it, braid it, or leave it loose. If I let it air dry in braids, the natural curl stays pretty well. It also gets really thick and voluminous. I'll be honest; I don't like my hair the day I wash it. Too flyaway for my tastes. My "best" hair is usually a day or two after I wash it- it's got enough oil worked through it to stand up to whatever I want to do to it; it's got body and shine, and it feels good - not heavy, not super light.
Fridays are a good day to wash my hair - and trust me, when you have hair as long as mine, it's a process. Here's how I do it:
Brush hair, remove all excess loose hair.
Comb with wide tooth comb, remove knots
Step into shower, wet hair, squeeze excess.
Wash with "defunktify" shampoo to remove excess oil, buildup and chlorine.
Rinse.
Wash with "Straighten Up" shampoo to add shine and a bit of weight; hopefully control a bit of kink and frizz.
Rinse.
Comb with wide tooth comb, remove knots and loose hair.
Squeeze excess water.
Condition with "Straighten Up" conditioner. Apply in sections. Leave in for 2-4 minutes whilst washing up the rest of me.
Rinse me.
Rinse hair until hands run through without catching on knots, continue to rinse until hair feels evenly conditioned.
Squeeze excess water.
Comb once again.
Bend over, apply towel to hair in "babushka" fashion, dry rest of me.
Leave towel on hair while finishing personal grooming and dressing. (At least 10 minutes)
Bend over, remove towel and rub hair a bit more.
Comb once again.
Apply leave-in conditioning lotion and comb yet again.
Braid or leave loose to air dry.
Comb yet again, brush once completely dry.
Repeat next Friday.
Really long.
Not quite Crystal Gale-long, but long. Past my bra strap long. I love it.
It is a weird brownish reddish blondish color that usually settles on normal brown after a few days without a wash. It's very very thick, coarsely textured, and in certain spots, has enough natural curl to border on kinky. It gets pretty wild at times but I have neither the skill nor the fortitude to wrestle my mane through a flat iron every damn day. I usually go for a trim and blow out every six weeks.
I plan to keep it long until such time as professionalism dictates that I cut it. I hope that whatever job I have as an attorney is one where they don't care how long my hair is.
I only wash it about once a week, despite my level of activity, mostly because I find if I rinse out the chlorine, and brush through it a couple times a day, it stays in good shape. I can ponytail it, braid it, or leave it loose. If I let it air dry in braids, the natural curl stays pretty well. It also gets really thick and voluminous. I'll be honest; I don't like my hair the day I wash it. Too flyaway for my tastes. My "best" hair is usually a day or two after I wash it- it's got enough oil worked through it to stand up to whatever I want to do to it; it's got body and shine, and it feels good - not heavy, not super light.
Fridays are a good day to wash my hair - and trust me, when you have hair as long as mine, it's a process. Here's how I do it:
Brush hair, remove all excess loose hair.
Comb with wide tooth comb, remove knots
Step into shower, wet hair, squeeze excess.
Wash with "defunktify" shampoo to remove excess oil, buildup and chlorine.
Rinse.
Wash with "Straighten Up" shampoo to add shine and a bit of weight; hopefully control a bit of kink and frizz.
Rinse.
Comb with wide tooth comb, remove knots and loose hair.
Squeeze excess water.
Condition with "Straighten Up" conditioner. Apply in sections. Leave in for 2-4 minutes whilst washing up the rest of me.
Rinse me.
Rinse hair until hands run through without catching on knots, continue to rinse until hair feels evenly conditioned.
Squeeze excess water.
Comb once again.
Bend over, apply towel to hair in "babushka" fashion, dry rest of me.
Leave towel on hair while finishing personal grooming and dressing. (At least 10 minutes)
Bend over, remove towel and rub hair a bit more.
Comb once again.
Apply leave-in conditioning lotion and comb yet again.
Braid or leave loose to air dry.
Comb yet again, brush once completely dry.
Repeat next Friday.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Utterly Random Free Association Blather
I received notice that I got a spot in the second section of the summer school class for which I was waitlisted. It's a 2-credit short course and it will be done by the first week of June. Kate is taking it with me, so I'm pretty jazzed.
I dropped Crim Pro for the summer. Too much other stuff I want to do, and I really want the girl to be home with me this summer. We're both burnt out on school and she could do with some quality mom time. This should motivate me to get out more with her as well as keep myself actively exploring my new environs. She's going to day camp 3 days a week when she's not traveling to grandparents and relatives. I want this summer to full-on rock. We all need it.
My summer reading (now that I am going to be law school free) is The Tale of Genji. Note to self: head down to the used bookstore and find a copy in order to promote re-use. Walk to store. Parking is horrible and useless, and walking will promote greener living and overall health. Alternative: ride bike.
Training is coming back to me like an old friend. It helps to have a new friend there with me.
January was the month of the mental.
February was the month of the academic.
March was the month of the physical.
April will be the month of the epicurean.
What shall I work on next?
Domestic, Spiritual, Literary, Sartorial, Financial, Motivational... my life feels so present and full of potential right now. I have a huge dichotomy going on: I feel like the active searching for a relationship with my family of origin (and really, what all that means to my foundation and my future) is pointing me toward getting my own house in order. In a way I'm trying to reconcile my past with what I want for myself.
Life is so fluid and intangible, yet riddled with rules and order and certain inflexibilities.
There is so much to learn in this life; it is a wonder anyone gets anything accomplished. I don't believe in business jargon, or mission and vision statements, but I do believe in goals. Resolutions falter, motivation wanes. Influence invades. If forced to boil my life's goal into one sentence it couldn't be as trite as "be a better person." That's too vague.
A tentative life goal: Open to change, accepting and mindful, constant in effort.
Is that too ambitious?
Today's Training
Running
Virtual 5K (repeat of Thursday)
6 x 3/3 intervals (5.1/3.6 speed)
Total Time/Distance:42:30/3.1 miles
Overall, this felt better than Thursday. I beat my time by 3:20 and more importantly, was more consistent in the run. I got 1:30 into a 7th interval and just couldn't pull it out. Next time I will. A 7th interval will just about get me across the finish line. Once I can do that on a 3:3 comfortably, it's time to up the interval to a 4:2. Sooz says she's got a road race for us the end of the month, and I can't wait!
I dropped Crim Pro for the summer. Too much other stuff I want to do, and I really want the girl to be home with me this summer. We're both burnt out on school and she could do with some quality mom time. This should motivate me to get out more with her as well as keep myself actively exploring my new environs. She's going to day camp 3 days a week when she's not traveling to grandparents and relatives. I want this summer to full-on rock. We all need it.
My summer reading (now that I am going to be law school free) is The Tale of Genji. Note to self: head down to the used bookstore and find a copy in order to promote re-use. Walk to store. Parking is horrible and useless, and walking will promote greener living and overall health. Alternative: ride bike.
Training is coming back to me like an old friend. It helps to have a new friend there with me.
January was the month of the mental.
February was the month of the academic.
March was the month of the physical.
April will be the month of the epicurean.
What shall I work on next?
Domestic, Spiritual, Literary, Sartorial, Financial, Motivational... my life feels so present and full of potential right now. I have a huge dichotomy going on: I feel like the active searching for a relationship with my family of origin (and really, what all that means to my foundation and my future) is pointing me toward getting my own house in order. In a way I'm trying to reconcile my past with what I want for myself.
Life is so fluid and intangible, yet riddled with rules and order and certain inflexibilities.
There is so much to learn in this life; it is a wonder anyone gets anything accomplished. I don't believe in business jargon, or mission and vision statements, but I do believe in goals. Resolutions falter, motivation wanes. Influence invades. If forced to boil my life's goal into one sentence it couldn't be as trite as "be a better person." That's too vague.
A tentative life goal: Open to change, accepting and mindful, constant in effort.
Is that too ambitious?
Today's Training
Running
Virtual 5K (repeat of Thursday)
6 x 3/3 intervals (5.1/3.6 speed)
Total Time/Distance:42:30/3.1 miles
Overall, this felt better than Thursday. I beat my time by 3:20 and more importantly, was more consistent in the run. I got 1:30 into a 7th interval and just couldn't pull it out. Next time I will. A 7th interval will just about get me across the finish line. Once I can do that on a 3:3 comfortably, it's time to up the interval to a 4:2. Sooz says she's got a road race for us the end of the month, and I can't wait!
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Training Update: 4/1-4/3/2008
Forgot to add Tuesday's workout to my training log:
Swimming
Warmup: 100 Free
Main Set: 4x200, 45 RI
Descending 100 (34, 31, 24.8, 24.4)
Cooldown: 100 Free
Total Yardage:1100
I felt good on this one - forcing myself to keep a tempo through the 200's was good practice. Altogether the times were fairly consistent. The descender was a pain in the butt - the first two were fine, then on the third, I thrashed it out and took too much time off. Overcompensated and lost my form on the fourth and ended up chopping big holes in the water instead of moving quickly and efficiently. Life lesson.
Today's Training:
Swimming
Warmup: 150 (50 pull, 50 kick, 50 free)
Main Set: Down Ladder (400, 45 RI, 300, 45 RI, 200, 20 RI, 100) with descending pace
Cooldown: 50 Free, 50 Breast
Total Yardage:1250
The Down Ladder is a great pacing tool - if you know you have another 200 to go, you swim a little more conservatively. If you've only got 100 total, you push it. My times reflected that today - I'm really learning how to pace myself in the pool. Now that my form is coming back I'm better able to do some of the faster paces and sprints in the end of the workout, and that just bodes well for my ability to race this year.
Running
Virtual 5K (treadmill) Time:46:30
Intervals: Six minutes at a 3/3 split x 6 (36 minutes), 2.4 miles, 3.4/4.9 split.
10:30 at 3.5-3.9 to finish last .7 miles.
I can tell that I was pushing a bit with the intervals. I need to work on getting a full 3/3 interval through the entire 5K, then maintaining that until it's second nature. Once that happens, I can "graduate" to a 4/2 and eventually a full 5/1. Once I've got the 5/1 down for a 5K, I'll go back to a 4/2 or a 3/3 and add distance, then work up to speed again. I need to be able to 5/1 a 10K if I have any hope of making it through an Olympic by the end of this year. I also need to remember my water bottle if I'm going to be doing this kind of distance. One of these days I'll run a "fast mile" and see how I do pacing myself. I think I could get under 12:00 if I knew all I had to do was run a mile and cross the line.
Swimming
Warmup: 100 Free
Main Set: 4x200, 45 RI
Descending 100 (34, 31, 24.8, 24.4)
Cooldown: 100 Free
Total Yardage:1100
I felt good on this one - forcing myself to keep a tempo through the 200's was good practice. Altogether the times were fairly consistent. The descender was a pain in the butt - the first two were fine, then on the third, I thrashed it out and took too much time off. Overcompensated and lost my form on the fourth and ended up chopping big holes in the water instead of moving quickly and efficiently. Life lesson.
Today's Training:
Swimming
Warmup: 150 (50 pull, 50 kick, 50 free)
Main Set: Down Ladder (400, 45 RI, 300, 45 RI, 200, 20 RI, 100) with descending pace
Cooldown: 50 Free, 50 Breast
Total Yardage:1250
The Down Ladder is a great pacing tool - if you know you have another 200 to go, you swim a little more conservatively. If you've only got 100 total, you push it. My times reflected that today - I'm really learning how to pace myself in the pool. Now that my form is coming back I'm better able to do some of the faster paces and sprints in the end of the workout, and that just bodes well for my ability to race this year.
Running
Virtual 5K (treadmill) Time:46:30
Intervals: Six minutes at a 3/3 split x 6 (36 minutes), 2.4 miles, 3.4/4.9 split.
10:30 at 3.5-3.9 to finish last .7 miles.
I can tell that I was pushing a bit with the intervals. I need to work on getting a full 3/3 interval through the entire 5K, then maintaining that until it's second nature. Once that happens, I can "graduate" to a 4/2 and eventually a full 5/1. Once I've got the 5/1 down for a 5K, I'll go back to a 4/2 or a 3/3 and add distance, then work up to speed again. I need to be able to 5/1 a 10K if I have any hope of making it through an Olympic by the end of this year. I also need to remember my water bottle if I'm going to be doing this kind of distance. One of these days I'll run a "fast mile" and see how I do pacing myself. I think I could get under 12:00 if I knew all I had to do was run a mile and cross the line.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
The Cake Is A Lie, Redux (or, Happy Birthday, Sooz!)
We had a most enjoyable evening last night! It was Sooz's birthday and she was kind enough to invite a gaggle of her besties over to her boyfriend's house for a game night. It was awesome!
All of her friends are lovely people who are imaginitive, friendly and intelligent. Special props to the boy, who seemed comfortable enough to meet all these new people, and step out of his comfort zone for a rousing game of Cranium. Originally this was to be a video game night but Cranium finished at 11:30 and the both of us were bushed. (Past our bedtimes, yo.)
My contributions to the party (since one never shows up emptyhanded) were a bottle of Three Buck Chuck and this:
I reprised The Cake Is A Lie for Sooz because she, like the boy, is a gamer and would appreciate the Portal reference. Recipe below:
The Cake Is A Lie:
1 dozen cupcakes (homebaked or store-bought as a matter of taste and preference)
1 sheet CakeMate alphabetical birthday characters (must be the full alphabet)
Other decorations as desired.
Place one letter on each cupcake to spell out T-H-E C-A-K-E A. "IS" goes on one cupcake together, and "lie" is spelled L-I-3 (the letter set comes one "E" short.)
You may substitute "l33t" characters if the birthday gamer is sufficiently fluent in l33tsP3@K. Most of the time though, this birthday treat will have to be explained to those not in the know, and it's explanation enough without needing to explain "l33t" as well.
Happy Birthday, Sooz! You are an inspiration, academically, physically, mentally and emotionally. I'm so glad you decided to do the tri with me this summer - you're gonna rock on with your socks on. Except in the lake. Wet socks are never fun.
All of her friends are lovely people who are imaginitive, friendly and intelligent. Special props to the boy, who seemed comfortable enough to meet all these new people, and step out of his comfort zone for a rousing game of Cranium. Originally this was to be a video game night but Cranium finished at 11:30 and the both of us were bushed. (Past our bedtimes, yo.)
My contributions to the party (since one never shows up emptyhanded) were a bottle of Three Buck Chuck and this:
I reprised The Cake Is A Lie for Sooz because she, like the boy, is a gamer and would appreciate the Portal reference. Recipe below:
The Cake Is A Lie:
1 dozen cupcakes (homebaked or store-bought as a matter of taste and preference)
1 sheet CakeMate alphabetical birthday characters (must be the full alphabet)
Other decorations as desired.
Place one letter on each cupcake to spell out T-H-E C-A-K-E A. "IS" goes on one cupcake together, and "lie" is spelled L-I-3 (the letter set comes one "E" short.)
You may substitute "l33t" characters if the birthday gamer is sufficiently fluent in l33tsP3@K. Most of the time though, this birthday treat will have to be explained to those not in the know, and it's explanation enough without needing to explain "l33t" as well.
Happy Birthday, Sooz! You are an inspiration, academically, physically, mentally and emotionally. I'm so glad you decided to do the tri with me this summer - you're gonna rock on with your socks on. Except in the lake. Wet socks are never fun.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Ten Things You Should Know About Me, Part III
1. I have about 15 versions of the song Summertime on iTunes. Not the Fresh Prince one (though that one is cool)- the opening song from Porgy and Bess. That song makes me wanna holler.
2. My favorite scent is vanilla, and I use it almost exclusively in my personal grooming products - deodorant, body wash, body spray, lotion and perfume.
3. I barely made it through this winter.
4. I recently found the connector cable for my camera. This is a good thing.
5. I have worn glasses since I was 15. I found out I needed them when I went to the DMV to get my learner's permit and failed the eye exam.
6. I wear a size 9 1/2 shoe.
7. My wedding scrapbook isn't done yet. We're coming up on our ninth anniversary.
8. I don't drink nearly enough water.
9. I've been seeing a counselor since January, to help me work out my mental issues and figure out why I'm depressed. We've identified a bunch of issues. She reads my blog. I don't hold back in my writing because of this. It's helping.
10. I have no excuse but money for this one: my favorite wine is either Beringer or Turning Leaf White Zinfandel.
2. My favorite scent is vanilla, and I use it almost exclusively in my personal grooming products - deodorant, body wash, body spray, lotion and perfume.
3. I barely made it through this winter.
4. I recently found the connector cable for my camera. This is a good thing.
5. I have worn glasses since I was 15. I found out I needed them when I went to the DMV to get my learner's permit and failed the eye exam.
6. I wear a size 9 1/2 shoe.
7. My wedding scrapbook isn't done yet. We're coming up on our ninth anniversary.
8. I don't drink nearly enough water.
9. I've been seeing a counselor since January, to help me work out my mental issues and figure out why I'm depressed. We've identified a bunch of issues. She reads my blog. I don't hold back in my writing because of this. It's helping.
10. I have no excuse but money for this one: my favorite wine is either Beringer or Turning Leaf White Zinfandel.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
My Father's Child
Things I have in common with my father:
1. The ability to be moved by music.
2. Inordinate desire to be educated.
3. Most at home in a classroom, whether as a student or teacher.
4. Inability to finish a story (or remember whether I've told it before) in less than 5 minutes or without a digression.
5. Bad vision.
6. Love for all things chocolate.
7. An appreciation for peanut butter and swiss cheese sandwiches.
8. Encyclopedic knowledge of near-useless trivia.
9. Vocabulary bordering the ridiculous.
10. Inability to correctly express my emotions, thoughts and feelings.
Music in my head right now: Mozart's "Requiem": Introit and Kyrie.
1. The ability to be moved by music.
2. Inordinate desire to be educated.
3. Most at home in a classroom, whether as a student or teacher.
4. Inability to finish a story (or remember whether I've told it before) in less than 5 minutes or without a digression.
5. Bad vision.
6. Love for all things chocolate.
7. An appreciation for peanut butter and swiss cheese sandwiches.
8. Encyclopedic knowledge of near-useless trivia.
9. Vocabulary bordering the ridiculous.
10. Inability to correctly express my emotions, thoughts and feelings.
Music in my head right now: Mozart's "Requiem": Introit and Kyrie.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Kung Hei Fat Choi!
Things roll on in the life of me; not much to say other than it's still cold, I'm still in law school, and everything is copacetic.
Being on an even keel is a good thing. After the emotional upwelling of last week, it's nice to have a little in the way of normalcy. I'm finding my energy level to be up a bit, and I think I'm getting a handle on things. Doesn't prevent me from still being a bit overwhelmed at the demands of law school, but it's good to know what's required, and have the wherewithal to handle it.
I started SparkPeople, and I can already tell that my eating is getting better. Just the mechanics of sitting down and figuring out how many slices of pizza I can have. I don't feel like I'm really changing what I eat, so much as changing how much I eat and drinking a LOT of water.
I also re-started Couch to 5K yesterday, and I figure I'm about at week 3 or so - I did 5 minute repetitions of 3 minutes walking, 2 minutes running on the treadmill. I did well - I made it through to the end without killing myself, but it was still a challenge. I think I will stick with that through the weekend and then up it to a 2/3 iteration. If I remember my watch, I'll go run on the track, but for now, the treadmill makes it easy for me to mark time.
In the course of a week I've lost almost 4 pounds. I don't think it's easy by any means, and I know that my body is readjusting. But I also know that I've got a goal and I'm sticking to it, and I have something to work toward. It's also nice to have a couple of friends who are keeping me motivated; Kate and Sooz are working out with me after class on the weekends, and I have the pool hours - so I just need to adjust my schedule so I can go swim over the lunch hour.
New Year, indeed!
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Contracts Class Was Totally Worth It Today
People Magazine, I heart you.
Behold, gentle readers and friends, the origin of my fangirl tendencies.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Dashing and Dapper
Clean shirt, new shoes, and I don't know where I am goin' to.
Silk suit, black tie, I don't need a reason why.
They come runnin' just as fast as they can
'Cause every girl's crazy 'bout a sharp dressed man.
Gold watch, diamond ring, I ain't missin' a single thing.
And cufflinks, stick pin, when I step out I'm gonna do you in.
They come runnin' just as fast as they can
'Cause every girl's crazy 'bout a sharp dressed man.
-Sharp-Dressed Man, ZZ Top
Mock interviews were held at school over the lunch break today.
I chose not to partake; I have enough to worry about right now without thinking about interviews. From the feedback I heard, they were mostly beneficial for the kids who haven't ever gone through a professional interview. (Not me.)
Anyway, for those who participated, business dress was required. It was quite interesting to see the boys in class show up in ties and suit coats; it made quite a difference from the usual sweatshirts and jeans we are all prone to wearing. We have quite a few non-traditional students in my section, and thus, we had a few gentlemen who are quite experienced at suit-wearing.
I don't know the exact evolution of male businesswear; though I am a Delta Nu at heart, I did not major in fashion merchandising and could not tell you when exactly the current uniform of jacket and pants, coupled with a long tie and dress shirt, came to become a standard. There are many permutations of style in a man's suit - everything from the width and hem of the pants, to the number of buttons on the jacket, the type of cuffs on the shirt sleeve. Indeed, the suit seems a relatively easy thing to wear - the most common and complicated element is likely the tie. Add a pocket square and French cuffs (complete with cufflinks) and you have just taken the suit up a notch - ready for an evening out after a day at the office.
I will be honest and say that one of my major turn-ons is a well-dressed man. I love the easy jeans-and-sweater days, but when a man is wearing a well-cut pair of trousers and a crisp shirt, I definitely sit up and take notice. Add a perfectly tailored jacket, a coordinating tie and a good pair of shoes (seriously, polished and hard soled, Allen-Edmonds, Johnston & Murphy, Kenneth Cole) and I am in heaven. There is nothing quite like slipping your arms around the waist of a man, underneath a suit jacket - to me, it's intoxicating to feel how his body moves, just a little warmer than usual...like discovering a secret.
This is, of course, to say nothing of a man in a tux...
So today, sitting in class, I had the rather pleasurable experience of seeing a gaggle of my male classmates dressed to the nines. I imagined a few years down the line, when a suit and tie might become a daily uniform for some of them. A few of them looked uncomfortable (notably the younger ones, likely to have worn a suit about six times in their lives thus far). I've never seen a few of them in anything but casual clothing; it almost seems incongruous to see them dressed up. I wonder if it took effort to shine their shoes, or if they needed a girlfriend's (or mother's, or roommate's) help to get the proper knot in their ties. Rather like seeing someone who usually looks like this:
turn himself out like this:
or possibly this:
for the first time.
I think a suit separates the men from the boys, and today's distinction clearly belonged to the true gentlemen in the crowd, those who knew what they were doing and made it look easy from head to toe. A well turned-out man is a thing of beauty.
Trust me when I say that today was a very good day in law school, and it passed entirely too quickly.
Silk suit, black tie, I don't need a reason why.
They come runnin' just as fast as they can
'Cause every girl's crazy 'bout a sharp dressed man.
Gold watch, diamond ring, I ain't missin' a single thing.
And cufflinks, stick pin, when I step out I'm gonna do you in.
They come runnin' just as fast as they can
'Cause every girl's crazy 'bout a sharp dressed man.
-Sharp-Dressed Man, ZZ Top
Mock interviews were held at school over the lunch break today.
I chose not to partake; I have enough to worry about right now without thinking about interviews. From the feedback I heard, they were mostly beneficial for the kids who haven't ever gone through a professional interview. (Not me.)
Anyway, for those who participated, business dress was required. It was quite interesting to see the boys in class show up in ties and suit coats; it made quite a difference from the usual sweatshirts and jeans we are all prone to wearing. We have quite a few non-traditional students in my section, and thus, we had a few gentlemen who are quite experienced at suit-wearing.
I don't know the exact evolution of male businesswear; though I am a Delta Nu at heart, I did not major in fashion merchandising and could not tell you when exactly the current uniform of jacket and pants, coupled with a long tie and dress shirt, came to become a standard. There are many permutations of style in a man's suit - everything from the width and hem of the pants, to the number of buttons on the jacket, the type of cuffs on the shirt sleeve. Indeed, the suit seems a relatively easy thing to wear - the most common and complicated element is likely the tie. Add a pocket square and French cuffs (complete with cufflinks) and you have just taken the suit up a notch - ready for an evening out after a day at the office.
I will be honest and say that one of my major turn-ons is a well-dressed man. I love the easy jeans-and-sweater days, but when a man is wearing a well-cut pair of trousers and a crisp shirt, I definitely sit up and take notice. Add a perfectly tailored jacket, a coordinating tie and a good pair of shoes (seriously, polished and hard soled, Allen-Edmonds, Johnston & Murphy, Kenneth Cole) and I am in heaven. There is nothing quite like slipping your arms around the waist of a man, underneath a suit jacket - to me, it's intoxicating to feel how his body moves, just a little warmer than usual...like discovering a secret.
This is, of course, to say nothing of a man in a tux...
So today, sitting in class, I had the rather pleasurable experience of seeing a gaggle of my male classmates dressed to the nines. I imagined a few years down the line, when a suit and tie might become a daily uniform for some of them. A few of them looked uncomfortable (notably the younger ones, likely to have worn a suit about six times in their lives thus far). I've never seen a few of them in anything but casual clothing; it almost seems incongruous to see them dressed up. I wonder if it took effort to shine their shoes, or if they needed a girlfriend's (or mother's, or roommate's) help to get the proper knot in their ties. Rather like seeing someone who usually looks like this:
turn himself out like this:
or possibly this:
for the first time.
I think a suit separates the men from the boys, and today's distinction clearly belonged to the true gentlemen in the crowd, those who knew what they were doing and made it look easy from head to toe. A well turned-out man is a thing of beauty.
Trust me when I say that today was a very good day in law school, and it passed entirely too quickly.
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