Essentially Enriched

How time flies!

2012-01-09T20:12:00.000-08:00

Wow, Haven't been here since the 4th? what is up with that. Well it makes some sense because I fell apart at the end of the race. You got it, made it through the holiday season only to get tripped up by the end of the year. It actually wasn't new years eve that did me in. We went over to a friends house for a great dinner of chicken, grit stuffed tomatoes and salad. Snacks were veggies with hummus, a perfect setting for me. Have I told you all this? well anyways, I drank some, but also downed some good water and was well rested for the New years day race. I know I told you about that!
So what got to me? The stockings. Ugh. After Christmas, my DH had put all the stocking candy back in the stockings and hung them up on the mantel. I am so an out of sight, out of mind girl and didn't give all that lovely candy a second thought. But then, we de-Christmased and all that candy had to go someplace. The kitchen counter. Not good. Plus there were still leftover goodies from my 40th Birthday party. Double not good. It was a slow, but definite slide. So 1.5 weeks into the new year and I have gained. Boo.

Monday 1/9 weigh in 158.

However, I found my issue,threw away a lot of sugar and moved the candy into the pantry and to a side counter to get it out of my snacking eyesight.
Another problem, I was trying to work in strength training. That in itself is not a problem, but I wasn't burning enough calories to offset candy attacks or even to maintain (clearly). The last 2 nights I have gone back to the tried and true treadmill. Last night I thought I was repeating week 4, day 1 on the couch to 5k, but turns out it was actually week 6. Yikes, but good for me! Tonight was just alternate 5 minutes jogging and 5 minutes walking. Covered 3.75 miles both days. Eating has been MUCH better these last 2 days as well, so I hope to start to see some results. I have been very bad with the diet soda though. Things have been stressful at work.

Happy week!

getting more sleep

2012-01-04T20:46:00.000-08:00

Since the holidays I have been working on getting more sleep, well actually, going to sleep earlier. I seriously let my sleep schedule move into the early morning hours as I am naturally a night owl, and with working out and working, it is time to get back to reality! Last night I went to bed at 12:30, so shooting for 12:15ish tonight. Long story, short, this will be short because we are right on top of the midnight hour!

Goals for today:
Water - did good. drank at least 2 glasses in the morning, 2 at lunch and 2 at home. yea!
Workout - I ended up doing level 1 of the shred before my son's TKD class and level 1 of the BL cardio max after bedtime. With both combined, I did ok I think, but since I don't have a Polar or anything, its hard to know. I definitely didn't kill the workouts, but did most of the moves.
Feb Race - I am still crushed I spent that money on a race I can't even do. Boo. Didn't spend time looking for a new race today.

Goals for tomorrow:
Water, W4D1 for C25k, Push goals

Here's my race picture from the New Years Day race. I was totally smiling because I knew she was taking my picture. :)

Night!

Back to Work

2012-01-03T20:03:00.000-08:00

Well the holidays are officially over! Of course the aftermath is sitting in bowls on the counter, mostly candy from the family stockings. It has about 3 more days before I move it all into the pantry, where I usually forget about it.
Goals for today
1. Water - Didn't do so great, but have had 2 large mugs of tea this evening, so am getting back on the water wheel.
2. Couch to 5k - I slogged the week 4, day 1 run and think that is about where I should be. It was hard, but I got through it (with a 30 second cheat on the walking portions). I will keep repeating this one until I get some comfort with it.
3. Race sign up - I did this - AND it cost me 40.00. THEN I figured out I am going to be in the Dominican Republic on my 40th birthday trip that weekend. GRRR. Just too many things going on and when I don't calendar everything right away, I pay the price. Hopefully my friend will run it, so it won't be a waste, but I can't technically transfer the entry.

Workout was couch to 5k for 30 minutes and about 2 miles. I then did a "brisk walk" for 2 more miles. The kids were playing Wii and I thought that would entertain me more then it did. I am so motivated by those numbers on the treadmill.

Goals for tomorrow-
Water
Strength workout
Find a Feb race I can actually do!

another Monday

2012-01-02T20:42:00.000-08:00

This one was better then most because we still had a day off! I slept in and then followed through on what I said I was going to do the last several weeks. I did a strength work out rather then just jumping on the treadmill. I did a quick walk too, but stopped after a mile because I planned to go to the mall and figured I would get quite a bit of walking in. Ended up not as much as I had hoped, but I limited my snacks and sweets today as a result.

Monday is my weigh in day, so for the first official weight of 2012, I am at 156.5. I started 2011 at 168, so not bad overall, but if I was to be totally honest (and why wouldn't I be?) 8 of those lost pounds are from the last 8 weeks. on the upside, I definitely didn't gain this season!

Tomorrow's goals: WATER and figuring out what week I should start on for the Couch to 5k. I know I am not week one, but I am not running at week 4 either. (if I remember correctly) Oh and sign up for the Valentines run, my buddy just let me know she is in, so we are good to go!

New Years Day 5k

2012-01-01T18:09:00.000-08:00

Kicked off my first goal (12 races in 12 months) with a race on Jan 1st. I am so lucky, because when I made my goal I figured if I can get through the cold months, then the rest of the running season won't be so bad. Well today was a treat! It was in the high 40's by the time we started racing and I need to take off my fleece part way through.
I clearly can't pace myself as I thought I was doing very poorly, but when I came around the bend in the town center, I could see the finish line clock and it said 36 something. I still had a half mile to go, but knew I could do that in 8 minutes or so! I ended up at 40:44. Not my best time (that was in March, 2010) but still good considering I haven't raced in 18 months.
A very good way to start the year. I also took a short walk around the neighborhood to get out, as the temperature is supposed to drop 15-20 degrees in the next day and a half. Boo! I was loving this October weather we have been enjoying. Maybe the winter will be mild and the Feb and March races won't be so bad either!

Hi everyone, well there is no one, but who cares!

2011-12-28T18:55:00.000-08:00

Back to reading blogs and working out again! I have lost 8 lbs since the beginning of November. Things are going well in life in general. yea! One step forward each day and I will accomplish my goals.

Goal #1 for 2012 - 12 races, 1 a month. Signed up for a New Year's Day 5k and the forecast is 55 and sunny. Can't beat that for DC winter weather.

I exercised today

2010-09-14T19:35:00.000-07:00

With a new school year starting - for the kids - not me this year - I decided it was time to work on the scheduling of my time. Today I followed the mental plan, by exercising during my son's homework time. Picked up DD, which isn't usually my job, and got dinner together before DH got home. Whew. It was 30 minutes, but it was really a step in the right direction.

momfail#

2010-04-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

So what I decided to do with my found time on Thursday was to go home and get my son to run with me on a local trail. I suspected my daughter might want to come along, but I planned (and succeeded to leave her at the playground on the way with grandma). What I didn't count on was my son getting tired. Ugh, I did run 10 minutes, but then couldn't keep it up with waiting for him and jogging in place. We covered 2 miles total, so it wasn't a total loss. Ran some intervals racing him to various milestones. I did run my 25 minutes on Friday and felt pretty good. Sat and Sun were spent with my mother in law visiting, so no work outs. We did walk 3 miles today downtown touristing. Food hasn't been completely on base, but I did make Ham, Asperagus and couscous for Easter dinner. Course that followed a large slice of cheesecake I had at a friend's house on Sat night. Been losing weight - weighed in at 158! Why does the scale only treat me right the week of TOM? I just move between 2-3 weights the rest of the month. SO Frustrating! This week I am at an offsite training class, which will be a challenge. They have breakfast and snacks each day for the students.
Are you running towards your 100 miles this week?!

So begins the weekend

2010-04-01T11:27:00.000-07:00

No, not an April Fool's joke here. Due to the large amounts of snow and craziness of the school schedule the central office folk are being given the Friday of Spring Break off to make up for working President's day. Whatever, but let me tell you - the weather is FINE here in DC, so much better then Feb - I'll take it.

So here is my problem. It's a running day. I have been REALLY good about running every other day (notice I didn't say jogging? I am practicing for the real thing) - but as you know I SUCK at running outdoors. Do I say doesn't matter, get out there and do what you can or go the safe route and finish my 25 minutes in the gym where I know I can? *sigh* plus I have a headache. Nonetheless, my MIL is here for the holiday, so there will be drinking involved this weekend and I need to get on the stick. So torn....

2 milestones in 24 hours!

2010-03-31T09:28:00.000-07:00

I completed my first 25 minute run! yea. It wasn't pretty, but I kept my speed from 5.2 to 4.6 the whole way. I was definately tired at the end, but as has been my habit completed the rest of the 5k walking. I am averaging under 45 minutes on a regular basis now, so that is an improvement. 2- 3 more times of running 25 minutes before I have to increase again.

Then I came home to an empty house (that never happens), made myself some leftovers and proceeded to feel very ill. NOT happy at all. Luckily (or unluckily) this typically means the arrival of TOM. Great timing - not as my MIL was about to walk in the door. Medicated and powered on though.

THEN this morning my weight had a 5 in it. As in 159.5. Woo Hoo! I still have that cute little computer bag sitting waiting for me to hit 155. Getting there way slower then I want to, but I am also eating at a level I can sustain and not feeling hungary all the time. So that is critial to making this a life choice rather then just for this summer, or my reunion etc. Running every other day is a goal that I have committed to, so I am a little worried when I run out of C25K program. Cross that goal when we get there. I only have about 18 passes left at the rec center and then I can buy a monthly program (I bought passes for when I lapse - which I majorly did before - so I don't lose my investment). There are a ton of good classes that I should/could take to get the tummy and arms involved in this revolution.

how did you do today?

Keep Moving...

2010-03-29T07:11:00.000-07:00

That seems to be the only goal I can achieve lately. My to do list runnth over, my mental list is even bigger (I don't dare write it down!). I can't control that so much, but what I can do it to take things one step at a time. I have had to prioritize by due date - something I try not to do because then I finish things just prior to the due date and not before.

One thing I cannot put off is my goal to move more and eat better! Due to some stressful encounters with my daughter, I did a little bit of drinking this weekend. (after she finally fell asleep) Not more then 2 drinks, but it makes the snacking come on. So there were some tortilla chips. Maybe more then a few. Eliminating late night snacking alone could shed some pounds! So there is a goal.
Couch to 5k - still plugging along. I ran W6 day 1 and 2 with no problems. Day 3 (a 25 minute run) was a little more challenging. I ran in the morning, which I rarely do, but we were already at the rec center for the kids swimming lessons. I ran the first 10 minutes, walked for about 2.5 minutes and then started running to finish. I was thinking about giving up after the first 10, but then said to myself - that is just dumb - you know you have run 20 minutes in a row - get going! (yes there is a lot of self talk going on during these runs!) So I finished strong. Week 7 is all 25 minute runs, no intervals, so I get to get right back on and try again (tomorrow). Goal: do it!
Looking for a challenge - Jill and I are co-hosting the 100 mile challenge. New this round- pick your poison 100, 200 or even 300 miles in 3 months! Check out 100milefitness.blogspot.com to sign up! Goal: sign up - I did, will you?

Another success is that I signed up my son and I for the frst 5k I am going to RUN in April. Got to get through the next 3 weeks of running and I will be ready to go. Wonder when I can call myself a runner? :)

I did it!

2010-03-23T12:00:00.001-07:00

No suspense there! I made 20 minutes and didn't feel too bad at the end. What I do know is that I can't do math and run at the same time! That is why I love the podcasts that are available to do all that fun stuff for me. Next round is more intervals and then a 25 minute run. I might be able to run the 5k I signed up for with my son in April. Run the 5k, not walk. :) Mentally I am still feeling like a poser, but I am actually doing the work, so let's hope I see the results.

Gearing up

2010-03-22T10:31:00.000-07:00

Today is my 20 minute run. I have been focused on water all morning long and now have to go to the bathroom way more then normal - but at least I am getting up from my desk. It is raining outside, so this is definately a treadmill day. eating wasn't horrible, but wasn't great this weekend - mostly the carrot cake Sat night - blah. I cut back on almonds - because while good for you, I could eat them all day long! Feeling very full right now, but I plan to head to the rec center in about 3 hours, so should be good to go. I am working on a positive attitude for this run.
No 30 day shred this weekend as I have family in town and taking up the family room to get all sweaty is just not a hospitable option at the moment.
Wish me luck!

9 days.... but they have been fun!

2010-03-18T11:51:00.000-07:00

ok - 9 days since my last post - I hate it when bloggers do that! Don't they know we are out there waiting for their newest thoughts and adventures. So what have I been up to?

I worked out 7 of the last 9 days in some capacity. (I am counting 1 day of just tourist walking - but the rest is valid!)
I completed week 4 of the couch to 5k and did day 1 of week 5 yesterday. That included 2 days of failed attempts, but I kept going and am looking forward to conquering W5D2 which is 2 8 minute runs. Then comes the dreaded 20 minute run. I figure if I can do that, the rest is just keeping on.

I have not gained or lost any weight. Is this frustrating - very. I had that bizarro week the end of Feb that was related to PMS - but that 5 lb lose has stayed lost. If I only lose weight during that week of the month, I am not sure I can keep up my efforts!! Goodness - doesn't my body know there is a reunion, shorts weather, swim season and all sorts of other good reasons to dump some of this weight? Plus I AM running - ok maybe jogging- 3-4 times a week. Runners are skinny. I want my skinny too!

Between run days I am going back to the 30 day shred. Getting some arms in, which is oh so important! No new veggie this week. We were just beat from being away all weekend. I did get a costco box of spinish that we used in a pasta dish and have been using for salads. I also signed us up for a half share of a co-op, so we will have fresh veggies during the summer to check out, delivered each week.

the weather is fine - but my body is not ready!

Family Meet the Artichoke

2010-03-09T19:14:00.000-08:00

So this week's veggie was artichokes. I didn't really think the kids would go for it, so I only bought 3 at the store on Sunday. I decided to cook them tonight since we were just have sausage and potatoes. Boiled them up and taught everyone how to eat them. Well they were somewhat of a hit. I have to say I was surprised, but everyone dug in and kept at it. I was so proud!

Yesterday I didn't work out (Sat was a rest day- so I definately wasn't due!) but I wasn't feeling great and decided to just take a break. A slippery slope, but I did manage to get dressed and go for a "run". I say that because I didn't run all of Week 4 Day 2. I did day 1 fine on the treadmill, but outside seemed harder for some reason. It was so nice out, it seemed a shame to spend money on going to the rec center, but I am not feeling good about the results.
Tomorrow is a new day.

I have not lost any weight since my giant loss, so that is discouraging, but you never know when another breakthough will come. I have a cute bag waiting for me in 5 more pounds!

Status March 8, 2010

2010-03-08T07:07:00.000-08:00

well after a fantastic week the end of Feb, I have managed to keep stable. In some ways that is a victory, but I was a little disappointed since I worked with a personal trainer or was running my Week 3 of the C25K plan all week. (Saturday was my rest day) Thursday and Friday I went a little over board on my snacks and had alcohol, so that could be the difference. That being said I want to eat and drink in a way that is sustainable. Leave the "dieting" to the boring weekdays when nothing exciting is going on. Take this week for example, no evening plans at all.

100 mile challenge - (2/26-3/5) 17 miles for a total of 134 to date. I doubt I will make it to 200 by the end of March (it will be close), but have been continuing to move!
Weight has been from 160-161. So my fears of shooting back up to 165 seem to be just that, fears.

Personal Trainer

2010-03-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

Personal training seems like a good fit for me. I have to make an appointment - so someone is waiting for me. There is someone to do the thinking/counting for me - which I am convinced as to why I didn't complete the C25K challenge previously and I sweat. All good things. My Wednesday workout was focused around boxing, which I have wanted to try. It was "hard" in that I couldn't complete the reps, but it did make me sweat and I liked the trainer. Friday's workout was with another new trainer (they have 4 at this place) and it introduced me to kettle bells. He had me to a circuit of 4 exercises - some kind of body lift, squats, kettle bell swing and ellipical. 15 reps, 12 reps and then 9 reps. Kettlebell killed me. Other then that I was fine. However, I felt this workout the most the next day. I had to keep the obligitory sell session on Friday and gave the owner some feedback she didn't seem to happy to hear. Basically I didn't feel like my sessions ever hit the 45 minute mark. If I was paying over 60.00 a session, I would have been more aggressive about it, but I thought she should know. Yea, didn't take that well. Hrm, might have to rethink my decision to go there next fall once the weather starts to cool off.

Overall though, I felt like I had a good experience, but maybe wasn't pushed very hard. It is a little hard to guage because I had a new trainer each time and I am sure they don't go hard core on the newbies as to not scare them off. At this point I am thinking I will look into the rec center and what they have to offer.

Misc

2010-03-03T05:43:00.000-08:00

So many things to catch up on this week.
First- I ended the week at 160. yes 160. 5 lbs in 1 weeks. Did I really lose 5 lbs in one week - no way! but that is what my body told the scale. Let's just say the three of us are not in a circle of trust. So far this week I have bounced from 160.5 to 161. That I will take. Let's not see 165 again!!
Second - I had a coupon from a personal training place for 3 free workouts. Well of course I was going to take them up on that. So I started on Monday, have a session at lunch today and am squeezing in the last one on Friday despite my crazy week. First was was good. I felt like I worked out, but didn't see that it was much different then a good session at the rec center. Which by the way I plan to talk to and see what their personal trainer run. I am still all over the place with a plan, but I am working out, so that is the point right? Anyways this place sells 20 and 40 visit packages, averaging about 65-69 dollars per visit. That was a big number to see in writing. I just don't think I am there at this point in time (see kitchen designs) and with the warm weather coming, there will be a) more time issues b) more things to do outside. So not looking forward to that conversation, but maybe next winter.
Third - veggies. My DH is great in that he plans and shops for all the food for dinners. We eat out pretty rarely, so this isn't a small feat. We do our best to expose the kids to food they will eat, but isn't kid food. We cook out of the weight watchers cookbooks quite a bit, but let's face it a little distorted portions and it doesn't matter if it is weight watchers or not. Anyways to my point. I did the shopping this week - good things too, cause he had forgotten quite a bit. Anyways, I am trying to bring new veggie options into the house. Few weeks ago I did Speghetti Squash, and this week I did cauliflower. First dinner I just steamed it. he didn't want any. :) Last night I got crazy and made cauliflower mash by adding milk, butter and a small amount of instant potato flakes. It wasn't really mash (I should have steamed the cf instead of boiling it) but it was still good. P declared it tasted like ice cream! ha! H didn't like it, but tried it, which is the rule around these parts.
Fourth - C25K progress. So far so good, except for my fail last night. I was to run Week 3, Day 2 and didn't feel like getting to the rec center after putting the kids to bed. I had seen that some people do it on the elliptical, so I thought I would try that. Fail. period, end of sentance. I was on it for 38 minutes (more then the 20 minutes of running) but didn't feel like anything other then an elliptical workout. blah. Plan is to run again on Thursday and if I get through it ok, I am just going to move on. how's that?
Fifth - MAJOR nacho craving last night. resisted. Almost stopped on the way up to bed to grab 2 girl scout cookies, resisted. applauding right? well I had red licorice and sweet tarts in the office, so it wasn't a completely sweet free day. I have a feeling those nachos will be happening before the week end though.

wow - that didn't take as long as I thought. So much going on in my head, but it doesn't always make it to the blog. make good decisions today. Don't worry about yesterday or tomorrow.

Seriously now!

2010-02-25T11:16:00.000-08:00

ok, I am perhaps not the poster child for best food choices (see 2 rice krispy rock walls in 2 weeks time) but this menu is ridiculous! http://www.mapleaverestaurant.com/dinner Fried Cauliflower? Really, what did that dear sweet veggie due to deserve that? UGH! This is where my mom's group has decided to have dinner tonight. I am wondering what to do. Eat before and just have a salad there? Try the grilled chicken, which based on the rest of the menu is sure to be torpedoed with something bad in it, and frankly doesn't sound great. The best offense would be to do some research and suggest another place, but I don't have time to do that right now. (much more important to whine about it, right?)
On top of my dinner challenge, my body has been playing cruel and unusual tricks on me. Well maybe not so unusual, but that would be depressing. I was an amazing 165.5 on Monday - what?! you got that right, but today am weighing in at a much more respectable 162. What happened? no idea. really. not a clue. I have been eating better this week, but at the same time, other weeks see a similar (although not as startling a starting weight) up and down movement. I think this is why I am not in favor of the 1 week weigh in. What if I had been carrying the thought of that 165 with me all week. Motivating or defeatism? could be either, depends on the week with me. Essentially, to tie this all together. I am not in the mood to squander my 162 on carnival funnell cake - despite it being my MOST favorite fair food. Good thing is that it is so related to the fair or the beach in my head that I can't imagine eating one INSIDE, sitting in a restaurant! So food sucks, company is good and very much craved for. What to do?

Off to search the internet for a restarant before my next meeting!

Couch to 5k working it

2010-02-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

I have only "run" 3 times, but am committed to working this program. I started this program before, but didn't complete it. One of the challenges for me was to focus on timing the intervals for walking and running. Well that problem is solved with a great set of podcasts that I downloaded. Music, with verbal cues on when to walk and when to run. So perfect, I am just focus on my stride and getting through it. It has made me excited to do the next session. Ha! who would have thunk it?! I did Week 1 day 1 and 2. Day 3 was the same and I was doing fine, so I skipped it and went to day 1 of week 2 instead. A small cheat, but I will need all the days I can get as things get busy these next 2 weeks. Tomorrow I plan to run w2d2 at the rec center.

I am down 2 lbs from this frightful weekend I had. Did I mention I was right back to where I started. yea. not feeling the love. Ah well. I pulled back the food journal, which keeps my daytime eating under control. The last 2 days I have actually felt hunger. Something I haven't felt in a long time. Too much face stuffing perhaps?!
Anyways, I am using this last week of Feb to work up to my new month, new plan. Getting all my tools in line and moving forward. Still a chance I can wear a bathing suit this summer without being frightened. (or frightening!)

So frustrated!!

2010-02-21T19:07:00.000-08:00

I am just feeling so frustrated at this point. It has been 7 weeks and I have lost no weight. I am just jumping from workout to workout - when I bother to work out without a real plan. I need to get my head together and really start to take this seriously. I am not happy about my weight or my outlook on life right now. The next 2 weeks are going to be very busy, but that is just the way things are. With the wedding in May and many other every events coming up this summer, I just need to get going.

Like I said, I haven't been able to get settled on a workout routine. I was doing the 30 day shred - got to day 23 I think....in about 45 days. Ugh. Now I have done 2 days of the couch to 5k - granted in 4 days (with rest days, this is actually on time) My challenge here is going to be getting to a treadmill. There is still quite a bit of snow on the ground and let's face it I am just weather challenged to begin with. I have also done an old Denise Austin video (yes VHS!) and elliptical. I need to get my days with ANY type of workout up, but really, let's face facts - it is all about what I stuff in my mouth. No more birthday cake!(among other things.) Thankfully there are no candy focus holidays between now and Easter the end of March.

Ok, vent over.

I am still reporting time to the 100 mile challenge and have surpassed 100! I am shooting for 200 miles by the end of March, so should be able to meet that goal. Tomorrow I plan to hit the rec center for W1, D3 of the C25k. I really would love to like running. It seems like such an effective workout.

still riding the wagon

2010-02-13T20:19:00.000-08:00

I haven't been updating the blog, but I have been exercising, and I guess that is what is important. Although I feel my progress is about the same in both areas. Ugh. I am just not seeming to get anywhere with losing weight. While that might not be factually true, it certainly feels true and some days that is all that matters. I haven't seen 165 since Jan 25th - and actually my weight was 161.5 today. I think it is mostly dehydration though, so I am not going to get too excited until I start taking in my water regularly. I have been doing about 45 minutes to an hour. You would think being home with all this snow would give me lots of time to work out, but really it has wrecked havoc with my schedule.

I did report 19 miles for the 100 mile challenge - so that is great - my best week to date! back to Jillian after a week off. Just couldn't face her, but have done level 3 the last 2 days.

so just checkig in to let you know I haven't fallen off the wagon, might even be making progress I haven't seen yet. Olympics have started so expect to spend more time on the elliptical watching the action!

small steps

2010-01-30T14:23:00.000-08:00

3 days at 162.5 and reporting 18 miles on the 100 mile challenge (which I have adapted to be more miles each week and at least 200 miles.
Went to the caps game last night. Ate tuna fish on crackers beforehand to avoid the arena dinners. Success there. I did have some of DH's popcorn, and 2 beers. Dh bought me another beer, but I decided I would forget about the money faster then the pounds. Had a rather emotional conversation with DH on the way home and after taking the babysitter home. It will most likely be the start of many. We had plans to go to a party tonight, but the snow is keeping us in. Less drinking and no hotel food should help me start the week off right. :)
Did level 2 and 3 of jillian with my ever helpful kids this morning. Since I didn't do anything Thursday and Friday, I won't start level 3 in earnest until Monday at the earliest, so this was just a preview.

So no huge leaps or bounds, but entering Feb much better then I entered Jan!

Progress has been made!

2010-01-28T13:33:00.000-08:00

It seemed like it was never going to happen, but all of the sudden my body woke up and noticed that I have been working out. Whew! I was starting to worry there a little bit. Today I weighed in at 162.5. Not a huge change - but MUCH better then 165!! I am less stressed then last week and have been doing my best to eat well, rocking the speghetti squash I cooked earlier in the week as my dinner side as everyone else eats the carbs. Feels good to have an alternative. I just have to keep one available, my DH, not so good with remembering the veggies for meals.
Anxious about 2 planned nights out this weekend. I took such a hit with our night out at the melting pot, I have to figure out a plan. I think I can eat dinner at home tomorrow before we go to the game. Usually I would just wait to eat at the rink, so that will help. Not sure about Sat nights function. Hotel food. Maybe just eat little portions. I think it is the alcohol I am really concerned about as I will want to drink, some at least.
Time to go get the kid to start the round robin for tonight. Tonight will be day 9 of level 2 on the 30 day shred. I plan to take tomorrow off, then move to level 3 on Saturday.

January 26th, 2010 - status

2010-01-26T20:02:00.000-08:00

I did it times 2!!!

First I did level 2 all the way through!! I didn't stop any exercise before she said I could. :) I still don't think I am doing the last set of abs correctly, but I still did it.

The 2nd is a little more silly, but just as fun for me. I got through the bubble balance game on the Wii. I have serious spent too much time in my life on this game, but it is good for the abs. Now I have unlocked the advanced level. What have I done?! LOL.

Did great with eating today. only treat was my sunchips with dinner. One of hte bloggers I read is doing the experiements from the Beck diet. Today's was to understand that hunger is not an emergancy. I kept that thought in my head all day. Even though I took a granola bar to TKD, I didn't eat it. progress.

Doing much better on my sleep this week. Still haven't lost any weight, but I feel better. Today at least.

I have not gone off the deep end.....not yet anyways.

2010-01-25T19:54:00.000-08:00

Last week was really a busy one and that will be a continued story for the next 3 weeks. I was sleeping poorly and going to bed too late last week, as well as, skipping meals and making up for them with bad food decisions over the weekend. Basically I need a reset. Today was pretty good way to start. Ate only what was in my lunch box; yogurt, apple, blueberries, sun chips, eating well frozen meal. Made speghetti squash to go with some yummy fish for dinner. Did Jillian level 2, and 53 minutes of wii - mostly cardio.
I reported 17 miles in the 100 mile challenge last week and my goal is to increase my milage every week. What I achieved was fewer days of working out, but more time and hopefully more intensity to the days I did get it in. I am hoping this week won't be so hard with many fewer plans in the evenings, which allows me flexibility for post work or post bedtime workouts - or both. :)
I did give up my vow to give up soda, but I am still working on having it only every other day and in small amounts. I still have all my nails. After 37 years I can't believe it. I can't get cocky now, but I am having to put the polish on them less and less.
all that being said - time for bed!

I was right!

2010-01-21T21:00:00.000-08:00

I knew this week was going to be hard and I was right. I didn't figure out how to work out on Tuesday or Thursday, but did do the 30 day shred level 2 (day 3)and 20 minutes of elliptical on Wednesday. Will get back to it tomorrow, if we have a snow/sleet delay, I might even get it in early! Tonight I went out with friends to say good-bye to a friend moving to CA. Fun night, but bittersweet. We have been hanging out for about 3 years now, hard to believe.

I think I must have eaten 6,000 calories at Melting Pot because I am definately still fighting to get that back off. Ugh, such a set back. I am feeling fat and looked like I was poured into my clothes today - so not in a good way!

I have given up on my no soda pledge for the moment. I still have all my 10 nails (yea!)and decided that my workout routine should be my next habit change to focus on. Don't want to take on too much and then fail. Speaking of taking on too much, I really need to cut back on my volunteering! So much going on.

Very much past my curfew, which has been out the window all week. I am sure the lack of sleep isn't helping anything!

Night, Night.

SOO tired. January 18, 2010

2010-01-18T20:49:00.000-08:00

I had the day off and I am so far past my internet curfew! UGH, UGH, UGH. I couldn't face Jillian today either. Now I wish I had. I did do 50 minutes on the elliptical and 30 stupid minutes on the Wii trying to master a balance game. Tomorrow and this week should be VERY interesting and will challenge my ability to keep to good eating and working out. that being said, I have to get up at the crack of dawn to get to a meeting afer I drop my daughter off. All I wanted to do tonight was read my book.....best laid plans.

Night!

January 17, 2010 - status

2010-01-17T19:42:00.000-08:00

Good day today. power went out this morning, so went back to bed and slept late. LOVE IT.

Did 30 minutes on the elliptical and then did level 2 of Jillian. maybe should have waited in between. I wasn't my usual perky self. :)

164..... I looked at my calendar and I am average of 1 lb less each week. its something.

I did get a new computer bag to reward myself with when I hit 155. Let's hope my current bag doesn't fall apart before then!

I haven't had much to say have I? status

2010-01-16T18:56:00.000-08:00

Well the Melting Pot was in a word YUMMY. I fully enjoyed the food, which is something I can't always say. I find I just eat because it is time to. I, of course, have control over breakfast and lunch, but dinner is always with the family, so happens by 6:30 no matter if I am hungry or not. I find I have loaded up during the day and eat more then I should because it is there. I am proud of myself today though. After such a treat last night, we had breakfast for dinner tonight. I didn't like the way the potatoes cooked, so I didn't eat them, even though they were on my plate. I also didn't eat the bacon I cooked up for the kids. Veggie omelet, and milk for me. Overall a good eating day. I should think so after last night!!

Workout: 30 minute elliplical and day 11, level 2 of 30 day shred. I have done level 2 before, but this is the first day I did it officially. Just like level 1, kicked my butt. I did more then I expected though. Played Wii with the kids, but not anything worth counting for exercise, just plain fun. We don't worry about the weight since we know last night was a bruiser. :)

What gets me is that I had all day pretty much to work out, but still waited until 4:45, which is when I work out during the week.

Quick update

2010-01-15T14:51:00.000-08:00

Waiting for the babysitter to come so we can head to the Melting Pot for Restaurant Week. Did level 1 and 2 of 30 day shred today. Just a few minutes of Wii today, all balance. Didn't do too well. 163 wiegh in. Keeping steady. Fully expect the wine and food tonight to push me back up a little. But at least I prepped with a good workout.

Got to run. More during the 3 day weekend. Yea!!!

Jan 13, 2010 - status

2010-01-13T19:19:00.000-08:00

ok, well I did so well until I finally sat down tonight. Just been running around so much today and tomorrow isn't going to be any different. Ate well, well.....ugh except for those damn candy cane hersey kisses. I think there are only 5 left in my bowl in the office. I think I kept it to 6 today. This is the first time I am eating after dinner and I have a small bowl of pita chips.....and a glass of wine. Only 17 minutes to internet curfew. I went to be earlier last night, but didn't actually go to sleep. Maybe tonight, I am certainly tired enough.

Weight 163.5 (again), 30 day shred level 1 only today. 20 minutes on Wii. Not steller, I had every intention of doing level 2 of 30 day shred, but after bedtime got caught up in picking up and planning for the cub scout meeting tomorrow.

On to tomorrow.....I don't think I will workout at all, but we will see.

Jan 12, 2010 - status

2010-01-12T19:33:00.000-08:00

today was just, um....worthless.

I was exhusted when I woke up this morning. Got to work late. Had a meeting I wasn't too into. Had lunch - what was left of it since I ate most of the morning. Bought another bag of sunchips from the vending machine. Did NOT have a soda all day though! After lunch I went home and slept for 3 hours. I wouldn't have gotten up if I didn't have to get my son to TKD. Did that, then ate dinner with the family - even though at this point I wasn't reallt hungry. Good news was I did level 1 and part of level 2 of the shred. no Wii tonight. Now watching the Biggest Loser with no snacks for the 2nd week in a row!

time for internet curfew. I have decided that night time computing and TV watching is really negatively impacting my schedule.

night!

Jan 11, 2010 - status

2010-01-11T19:28:00.000-08:00

ugh, I just need to keep my hands out of the damn pantry! I should work out my calories today, but I haven't gotten on the logging site yet. I had yummy white chili leftovers for lunch today. Much better then the usual hummas and pita!
Another thing, why do my shins hurt so much after the first routine in 30 day shred? The rest is fine.

Today - 164, 30 day shred, elliptical came back out of the closet and I did 20 minutes. No Wii time, DH hogged it.

I wonder if I can do 200 miles for the challenge? Hmm.....

Nailbiting and next steps.

2010-01-11T11:24:00.000-08:00

well, my workout schedule has taken a hit or two, but overall a positive change, that I need to work into my life permanently. Another change I talked about was nailbiting. I started again (maybe for the 120th time in my life - at least!) before Christmas with a new determination. So far I believe I have been on target for 21 days and I have had only 2 casualities. That is really good! I did find my hands being drawn into my mouth earlier today, but just pulled out my trusty icky tasting polish and put it right on. My hands still look a mess because of the dryness of the season and my cuticles, but at least the next time I go in for a manicure she will have something to work with! I wonder when you can declare a habit dropped? Is 30 days enough?

Been pondering the next victim in the list of bad habits - soda. That would be a financial AND diet benefit. I am going to let it simmer for a little bit. I know I need to go back to my can every other day like I was doing before. I fear I am addicted and HATE the withdrawal symptoms. Not a good reason to keep drinking it though! If only water was more exciting.

Jan 10, 2010 - status

2010-01-10T18:52:00.000-08:00

Did so well the first part of the day....then the packers game came around. Some heartbreaker. Snacks, snacks and more snacks. at least some of them were veggies.
I didn't do Jillian today for no good reason. Basically I couldn't get the DVD player that is hooked up to the TV with the Wii to work and was too self conscious to work out in front of DH. I did do 15 minutes of cardio, 10 minutes of strength, so not exactly the same, but close. :)
I felt pretty proud for doing even that though since I was up for 2 hours in the middle of the night with DD.

New week. Let's hope it is a good one.

100 mile challenge

2010-01-09T20:05:00.001-08:00

I posted 11 miles the first week and that is after missing a few days! I earned 4 more miles today!!

Jan 9, 2010 - status

2010-01-09T20:04:00.000-08:00

I am beat, of course it is almost 11 pm, so that should be expected I imagine. Today was just a mismash for some reason. I ate too many nuts in my passes through the kitchen, but was determined to get my workout in since I took yesterday off. It was delayed until after the kids' bedtime because I actually left the house by myself this afternoon and went to the mall. Unheard of for a few reasons. One, it isn't in my nature to shop. I am not very good at it and I find I have a lot more money if I don't even try it, unless necessary. Why I was so moved today is a mystery and to make things even stranger I went to the "big" mall in the area. OMG, the traffic was so horrible. I kept thinking, how did I make it through Christmas with NO trips to the mall and now I am here? One garage had absolutely no parking and I was ready to bag the whole thing, when on my way out I decided to try one more place. Got into a space zippylike and hustled into Macy's. I had some sweaters to return, a giftcard to use up and determination. I went through the handbag section about 4 times (I told you I am not good at this) convinced I had missed something. Nothing was calling to me until I found this one bag. Of course no tag, no clue how much it was, although everything was about 50% off. Anyways, the original price was more then I have ever spent on a bag, but with all the returns, discounts (ALWAYS ask at check out if they have a coupon you can use, I got an extra 15%) it was only 30.00 for a 160.00 bag.

Anyways, today - 30 Day Shred day 6, Weight 164.5, eating was grazing like. 200 calories for breakfast, but more then made up for that in snacks. 40 minutes on the Wii. overall not too bad. May make up for the 2 glasses of wine last night.

Jan 7, 2010 - update

2010-01-07T19:22:00.000-08:00

ok, too tired to talk much tonight. 163.5 this morning. Split my workout in 2. a little Wii before TKD and Scouts for DS and then Jillian day 5 after bedtime. DD screamed through the whole workout. I wish she could put herself to bed. We did ignore her though - ferberizing a 4 year old?

treats - had 2 hersey kisses, a handful of spiced nuts (d&^% him for bringing them into work again). avoided the maggiano's return at work and had pita and hummas for lunch during book club.

think I might go pop a 100 calorie bag of popcorn and finish watching the game. tomorrow I will report my miles for the 100 mile challenge.

Jan 6, 2010 - status

2010-01-06T20:22:00.000-08:00

ok, too tired to talk much today.

Went to work, had our holiday lunch at Maggiano's. I did ok. 1 bruchetta, 1 stuffed mushroom, 1 italian salad serving. 4 entrees, I filled the plate with tastes of each. I did notice it was a smaller then usual plate. water with everything. Taste of cheesecake and tea for dessert.

Dinner at Founders Day meeting. chicken, rice, salad. 2 glasses of wine. Might have negated the gain/loss I had this morning. :(

weight 164, 30 day shred day 4, 20 minutes on Wii.

must go to bed.

Jan 5, 2010 - update

2010-01-05T18:48:00.000-08:00

Today was very exciting because I met with 2 kitchen designers. One was a followup to a meeting I had in early December. She came over to show 2 concepts she had drawn regarding the room. The one with moving no walls was almost exactly the same as Home Depot and other outlets worked up for me. Reassuring, but not very exciting. The other was interesting, but she did keep the 2 dining spaces. We had a great talk about moving walls, putting the laundry in a cabinet vs room and other options.
The 2nd visit was with a new designer and she seemed to have some good ideas. I am pretty sure I am going to work with her on a fixed price basis to work up some designs.
I slept horribly last night, so did not get up again today. *sigh* I did do day 3 of the 30 day shred right after the bus stop. Did 30 minutes on the Wii this evening.
Last night I joined the 100 mile challenge - see sidebar. 100 miles in 3 months. every 15 minutes of working out equal a mile. Should be a motivator for me. 7 miles so far this month!
weight 166, waist 37, eating pretty good. No sugary snacks!!

2009 Goal recap continued

2010-01-05T12:09:00.000-08:00

They wouldn't be goals if we didn't evaluate our progress would they?

Ok - weight goal of 140 - I think I have already let the cat out of the bag in letting you know what 2010 looks like, that not only did I not lose the 10 lbs intended for 2009, but picked up a few new/old ones as well. I am sorry to say the last month of the year was actually the worst (approx 6 lbs gained), when I was actually thinking about getting back on the band wagon. Too much thinking I would take care of it tomorrow I guess. Alright, well we are back on track and thinking clearly again, so enough about that.

Enjoying exercise. Ugh, will I ever become one of those people? I think there is hope, but it is a sliver of light at this point. I have worked out more than I ever thought I would in my lifetime, so I would say I am making slow progress in liking how exercise makes me feel. I still believe the key to this is to pick active activities to do with my family. That takes mental energy to think/plan, but is possible.

Nail biting, another fun one. So my latest research says that breaking a habit takes 21 - 32 days depending on who you ask. At this point I have gone about 14 days with only 2 nails taken down. I purchased new anti bite polish and carry it in my purse, so if I notice my hands in my mouth - which is the main issue - I can whip it on right away. This has helped a great deal more then, just saying I couldn't bite, but not being as worried about my hands being close to or in my mouth. Trust me this stuff tastes gross. My nails are not growing as fast because of winter maybe, and I think this is actually a help. I am working to keep them filed down as well.

Jan 4, 2010- status

2010-01-04T19:18:00.000-08:00

ok here goes today.

started the day with a major fail - either I can't set an alarm or I slept through it. Either way, my plan to fit Jillian in before the bus stop was not happening. (to be honest I haven't set an alarm consistently in um like 8 years - yes my oldest child is 8!) Will try this again tomorrow. Working from home, so just have to fit the workout in, not the shower too.

However, I did rush home and get day 2 of the 30 day shred in. I also did about 20 minutes of Wii, including a 10 minute run. Totally don't trust that thing. There is NO WAY I ran over a mile in 10 minutes. I average a 14 minute mile. But hey I jogged for 10 minutes, there is something there. :)

weight 165 - I know I shouldn't weigh in everyday, but really I don't get too upset about an up trend as long as it doesn't last. Overall I am just looking for a downward trend. I haven't revisited calorie counter, or seen what Sparkle people is like, but that is on my list.

Food - did pretty well today. 2 Hershey kisses at work, scary snacking right after my workout while cooking dinner - but really amounted to about 20 almonds, 1/2 piece of banana bread and I think that is it. Feeling a snack coming on now though. Just need to resist. I already had my peanut butter cluster for dessert! Going to get some tea.

total fail on the signing up for classes. They started on Sunday. I think I could still get into Pilate's on Sundays, but really want to take the INOVA class on Mondays. Just have to get DH to agree to do kid duty that day. That class doesn't start until the 25th.

I said I was going to measure my waist today, but haven't done it yet. Since it is so damn cold today, I may just put it off until tomorrow. Snuggling in my quilt with my computer for warmth right now!!

2009 Financial goals

2010-01-04T10:26:00.000-08:00

to be honest I have to start here as I feel the best about my progress in this category. :)

1. Home Equity Loan - well I haven't exactly paid the last cent on this puppy, but I have a good reason- honest! I went from a balance of 34,876 (approximately) to 8,000 at the end of the year. I have the money to pay off the loan - more on that in a minute, but didn't because part of our "relationship" balance with the bank is this loan. I need to keep 15k in the bank to maintain the interest rates, lack of fees etc for our service level. For now I am not interested in switching banks, so slowing my payment plan was part of maintaining our target "relationship".

The reason these funds were important was because I was busy syphoning off any available money into a ING account with the title of Kitchen. (so excited!) I met with 2 contractors in September to discuss my thoughts on the kitchen and to double check my budget ideas. They both agreed we could remodel the kitchen for the proposed 30-40k. At this time we have 28k in the ING account. I am going to continue to plan for and select contractors for this effort, but won't kick off the actual project until the budget for my job becomes clearer - maybe May. So I have about 5 more months to put aside some more money - which I may need since my eyes are getting bigger the more I research this project!

Goal 2 - Education
I have been reading and meeting with the financial planner this year, so I consider this checked off. We purchased term life insurance and are poised to make some changes to our retirement and/or 529 savings. I am not sure exactly what this will look like yet. I would like to get a better feel for our taxes for 2009, which I will do in Feb.

2.5 - Energy Audit. I had this done over the summer and was surprised that we didn't seem to have the leaks I thought we would. We did add more insulation to the attic - my bedroom seems warmer, so maybe it is working. Unfortunately the ceilings cracked in many places and had to be fixed. The company took care of it, but it was a pain - everything had to be patched then repainted.

3. Mystery Shopping. I did about a C on this. I was very strong through the spring with picking up assignments, but I have a lot going on in general, so this became more intrusive. I also think because we were meeting our savings goals it was much harder to see the 10-15 dollars as important in the whole scheme of things. I still get alerts, but haven't acted on any assignments in awhile. I think this is ok for now.

4. No new debt. In short - check. We had some dicey months with fixes and new tires on the truck, etc, but I just pulled back on the kitchen fund for the month and made it work. We seem to have sailed through Christmas with little damage, so unless there is some huge bill lurking out there, we will start the year out in good shape. I did my best to buy things with cash/debt - including the wii and it seemed to work.

Jan 3, 2010 - status

2010-01-03T19:10:00.001-08:00

165.5 weigh in
30 day shred level 1, 30 minutes on Wii - 309 calories
Food - meals were good, snacking at Pack planning meeting on nuts and various other treats. Water = 3 glasses

A new year 2010

2010-01-03T18:58:00.000-08:00

ok, I will get to reviewing my goal success and fails in 2009, but first 2010. Looking forward!!

Fitness has to be my number 1 priority this year. In 2008 I lost 20 lbs, but managed to gain it all back, most of it in the last 6 months. Turning things around has been on my mind, but not in my actions. Certainly the treats of the season were not kind and I did nothing to stop them.

We received a Wii and Wii fit from ourselves (aka Santa) this Christmas, so I have been investigating that as a fun way to squeeze a few more calories out of a day. It is, of course no way to get real weight loss progress. So I have been working on 20-30 minutes. More of a routine creating exercise, then anything else.

So 20 lbs is my goal for 2010, but more then that number is making the time and enjoyment for exercise. If we can make more active activities part of our life, then that is the real change. I am also nooddling, but not yet committing to something like walking a marathon. I want to spend more time checking out the training timeline and see what marathons are walker friendly. If I can walk a marathon, maybe someday I can actually run one! Mentally my mindset is not there yet. So one foot in front of the other until then.

Home Equity loan be gone

2009-06-18T12:09:00.000-07:00

ok, well it isn't going to go away tommorrow, but I am very excited about our progress. We have paid of $19,396.85 since the beginning of the year. I am essentially putting almost 2300 a month into the loan above our automatic payment. I have shaved a little bit off into our ING account to begin the nest egg for the kitchen, but not too much. My present thinking is I will get rid of the loan before focusing on the kitchen savings. My biggest issue is that I have no idea how much I need to save. I have 30k in my head, of which we have maybe 15k in a maturing CD and funds I have hesitated to put towards the loan (yet). So we still have a ways to go. Car troubles this month and a tuition hike for DD may set us back a little bit, however, my DH will be getting a raise in July, so that is in the plus column. Also expecting a bonus check the end of July, so will divide that into play, kitchen and loan pots.
I love seeing the number go down on this loan though!

Goal check in

2009-04-06T12:20:00.000-07:00

Well here we are several days into April and I thought it would be a good time to assess where I am for the goals I laid out what seems a REALLY long time ago.

Emotional/Relationships
My focus this year is on my husband and I am afraid I haven't taken any great steps in doing things above and beyond in this area. I thank him for doing things and I have noticed that he has made more of an effort to be home "on time" - 6 pm to me. More work to be done here.

Health
Sigh this has to be my worst area to date. I haven't gotten motivated on the weight or eating side and have seen my weight creep up to 157.5. Which means I have 18 lbs to go for my 2009 goal. Still not impossible as I lost 20 lbs last year. I have refocused with April 1st as my starting point and have done something physical for the last 6 days. I am mentally trying to tell myself that I am feeling better and I know the eating with light exercise will go a long way towards my goal. I signed up for a Zumba class and some local moms are getting together on Saturdays to walk, so those are new developments. The spring weather should help.

Nails - oh those nails. I have gone for longer stretches with keeping them untouched and since a single bad moment can pretty much wipe out a nail, I have to be satisfied with keeping them neater and longer as I work on the habit of breaking my hands being anywhere close to my mouth. So while success isn't as visible here, I do feel some progress.

Finance - ok finally some good news! We have paid of 13k of the Home Equity loan to date (not including any April payments. the loan is now in the low 20k range and I am feeling like getting rid of this debt by the end of the year is very doable. Pennies are all moving over into savings and then once a month a put down a payment after the autopay is withdrawn. (this way I see the whole impact of my payment with no interest being paid). I have taken some $$ we have and moved it into the ING account to start the nest egg for the new kitchen. If we get to the end of the year and the loan isn't paid off, I will use the money there to finish it off.
I have been mystery shopping with 165 in payments and 230 in merchandise reimbursement. My focus lately has been on grocery shops, which I just look at as 1 big coupon. This side gig is labor intensive though and not without its drawbacks. I don't have anything scheduled past tomorrow, as the shops offered lately haven't appealed to me. The good thing is that I can pick and choose.
No energy audit scheduled - boo.
No new debt - yea.
lots of learning and blog reading - yea.

I would give myself a C+ with only the debt paydown saving me from a failing grade. Hopefully the arrival of spring will find me with new energy ( I have already gotten more done on my to do lists lately) and some forward motion on the goals I haven't touched.

Diffence in Outlook

2009-01-16T06:41:00.000-08:00

The concept of allowances aren't just for kids in this new world of spending less then you make. I know of a few couples in our social group that have one or both of the parents on allowances. It is their way to letting the person receiving the allowance have control of deciding what things to spend on (frivolous or not can't be opined on by another) and letting the family budgeter know that only X amount will be spent in this area. Some folks seem to spend it all during the period before the next allotment comes, others save up for bigger toys/projects. Not too unlike the difference between those that live paycheck to paycheck and those that save.

While there are days when I sigh about the latest lunch out, or question an expense, but fundamentally, my DH and I look at our money differently. We are well off, there is no doubt about that. Our salaries allow us to pay all our bills and save some each month, but we also don't spend much. Mall shopping is not a pastime, we tend to focus on the needed errands and kid events on the weekends and don't do much else. Boring, but cheap. So my husband doesn't worry about a lunch here or there (most days he and I bring packed lunches). I tend to worry more about creating habits that would be detrimental to our goal of paying off our last debt and saving to do the bigger, fun things we have planned for the future.

At the core of the difference is the perception that we are "fine" financially since I always get the bills paid and any financed debt paid off way early. While I am more immersed in the details of our income and outflow, and see the difference 200 can make in a month. What I struggle with is the fact that he doesn't spend rashly (or even buy big purchases - that falls to me), so what is my hang up? We have all read about punishing yourself on a diet all of the sudden can cause irrational eating (or spending) as a reward for being "good" for a short time. So if I let the few sodas and lunches go, will that keep the rest of our budget in lean, mean shape? It seems to, but I don't really know if it does. (my fear of entering into budget wars in another post soon) If we continue to make substantial forward progress, is that enough?

So would an allowance be more detrimental to our relationship then it would help our budget? I wouldn't want him to think I don't trust him with our money. What have you done in this area? Does one person carry the strategic money thinking tasks? How do they communicate their decisions to the other spouse?

2009 goals for Personal Growth

2009-01-11T18:26:00.000-08:00

This goal will be the hardest to measure. Some days I feel like I have so much to work on and other days, like things are going pretty well. I really want to keep this simple.

2008 I spent some quality time with myself, 2009 I would like to focus on my marriage. I don't have a clear plan about this, I just feel that we need to reconnect.

After 8 years of marriage we have fallen into logistics and kid news.

That's it. I want to put all my emotional energy towards me and my husband.

2009 Goals for Finances

2009-01-07T10:39:00.000-08:00

As I stare out into the cold rainy day reading my desperately depressing account statements I am still going back and forth on my fiscal goals for the year. I think I will go for the gusto and if I/we fall short, know we tried our best.

Goal #1
Pay off our home equity loan. About 3 years ago we took out a home equity loan to redo the master bath, create a walk in closet, replace all the windows with energy efficient ones and did some hardscaping in the yard. All told we took out 50k for these "little" projects. I have a tendency to take on several projects while I am on maternity leave, and these represent the efforts for when my dd was born in 2005. Overall, I think we derive great benefit from 2 out of the 3 of the projects and it certainly feels warmer in the house even though the thermostat is set many degrees lower. So long story short, we started to make extra payments on the loan at the end of last year and have 34k left on the account. I expect this to be a stretch because there is always something that comes up and looking at summer camp fees I expect my son's childcare expenses to rise for the school break. That being said, we have some end of year money, refunded escrow etc, that I plan to apply to help the monthly requirement.

Goal #2
Well, goal one pretty much took all of our anticipated funds, so I will leave this one a little more general. Essentially continue to educate and act on free deals, coupons and discounts where possible and sensible to reduce our monthly spending. (our grocery bill in particular is out of hand)

Goal #2.5
Get a energy evaluation done on the house. It was built in 1968, so we know there are concerns/issues and ways we can make it more energy friendly. I keep saying I am going to do this, so am now making it an official goal.

Goal #3
Continue to pursue my side gig of mystery shopping. I have seen growth in this area and feel that hasn't negatively impacted my time with family, so I am going to keep accepting assignments that seem to make sense to me. To date I am scheduled for a little over $100 in January, and I know more will pop up. Certainly not anywhere close to my full time salary, but every little flake helps.

Goal #4
This is more a reminder to stay status quo. We have no consumer debt other then the equity loan and our mortgage. Goal 4 is all about keeping it that way. No plans to buy a car, etc, so this shouldn't be too hard.

2009 Goals for Health

2009-01-04T20:14:00.001-08:00

I am afraid that I am not original in my desire to lose weight this year. I lost 20 lbs in 2008 and felt great. I am back up a little bit, but not too much considering the just passed holiday season. I would like to get back to my weight from last summer (144) plus a little more, so let's say 140 for this goal.

Really this is superficial because want I REALLY want to do (call it a stretch goal) is to become one of those people that enjoy exercise and all sorts of active activities. Everyone has those friends, you might even be one. I feel like I am still in the "fake it until you make it" phase of this life change. So until this happens I will be setting concrete goals that require activity for their accomplishment.

My second health goal is more then a little embarrassing, but I know I am not alone in this. At 37 years of age, I still bite my nails. Countless New Year's eve resolutions, hopes that my engagement/wedding ring might spur me, and failures have come to pass in my fight against my age old habit. (You had better believe I don't let my kids even put their fingers in their mouths!) This year I feel might be different. I had success last year with exercise, I started this resolution a little before the new year and have had success. Nail biting is worse then eating when it comes to that slippery slope as one slip up, does indeed ruin the whole nail/effort for a time of several weeks. In a week or so I plan to get a manicure to pamper my nails and myself and encourage the growth process. If I were to be totally honest (and here I am doing just that) I think the fear of the day my daughter notices my ugly nails sometime in the future is spurring this one on. Hopefully I can change the future in this case.

Financial, Developmental, and Relationship goals still to come.

Resolutions or Goals

2009-01-01T18:45:00.000-08:00

I guess it doesn't really matter what you call them, as long as you are spurred to action. Practice makes perfect so they say and after 37 years, I might be getting closer to setting concrete (specific), realistic goals that are attainable through small, but consistent steps.

Looking back
In 2008 I determined that my focus was going to be me. Sounds a little self serving, but being married, working and having 2 kids allows for lots of places for a person to get lost. Day to day routine gets set and thinking doesn't really have to come play.

Body
I resolved to lose weight, actually starting my exercise routine in Oct 2007 as a way to "ramp up". On New years day, I joined millions of others in thinking harder about what I put into my mouth. I was rewarded with a 20 lb loss by July and felt much better. Tiring of looking at the scale for my feedback, I declared to a friend that I wanted to run a 5k. I knew my friend wouldn't let me off the hook and in October, I walked/ran my first race. It was lots of fun, but I walked quite a bit of the route (I chose a hilly route, but didn't train for hills.)

Mind
I also wanted to read more books. I read every night, but stick to Time or Sports Illustrated so I can get through an entire article before turning off the light. I have been following a book club's picks and tried reading them, but hadn't gone to a meeting. I got to my first in the Fall and had a fantastic time. November had a conflict (still haven't read the book), December they didn't meet, but I have already finished the book for January.

Fiscal
I wanted to continue to put my family on solid fiscal ground. I haven't talked much about that yet here, but hope to share goals and progress on this topic with you all. My focus was to pay off the Highlander, which we did. I also ended up with an end of year refinance which took us from 24 years to 15 years and knocked 1.25% off our rate. While our monthly payment went up a little bit, we will save thousands in interest charges. I also started to aggressively pay down our home equity loan (our only debt except the mortgage now). It stands at 34k at the end of the year, but with no other items to distract us, I believe we can pay it off in 09. (whoops, a new goal slipped in there). We also dramatically increased our 401k/403b contributions to close to the max allowed per year.

Toasting 2008
All in all, I was happier with 2008 then I expected to be with all the doom and gloom in the media. I felt like I made some progress on me and set a foundation for my relationships with others. We are lucky though in that we both have good jobs, that for now seem stable and allow us a good headroom each month for me to divert funds to paying off debt (and soon to growing assets). More in my next post about my focus for 2009 and some of the goals I have noodling around in my head.

National 401k Day

2008-09-10T08:58:00.000-07:00

How I found out about it

I was waiting (maybe not so patiently) at a local bank to set up a checking account for the new cub scout pack we are joining. They had a den of 2nd graders last year, but relied very heavily on the district to support them, with a new den coming in, we are being encouraged to start setting up some things on our own. One item was the checking account. Since I am treasurer for another organization, I volunteered to take this on. (some of you will recognize this as the diversion it was to keep myself out of the den mom slot) Anyways, long story longer, I was watching the local bank channel while waiting and they had a short piece on National 401k day. I had never heard of such a thing, so I checked it out when I got back to the office.

September 5, 2008

Is the designated day this year for promoting 401k. The website is a little lean on details, but seems to operate more as a resource center for companies looking to promote enrollment in the 401k. This is something I personally feel strongly about since I work in IT and have been at many companies where the average age is fairly young. Those of us who have been around the block a few times gaze wistfully at those years and years of account growth potential. Those with time on their hands often don't realize the value of what they have.

How hard a decision is free money?

In many situations, companies will match up to a certain percentage of what the employee contributes. This is free money. Seriously. All you have to do to is give up a little now to get twice as much (really more, but stay with me) later. Ok, so you finally go back to that new employee orientation stack of papers they gave you the first day. Find the match %. It may be more complex then dollar for dollar, but that is ok. Say 50% of 4%. What does that mean? if you put in 4% of your salary, the company will give 2% or put another way, .50 for each 1.00 you contribute. The frosting on this cake is that you don't pay taxes on the 4% you contribute, its taken out before your taxes are figured out. And why am I assuming you are contributing at least 4%? Because who would leave money on the table like that? Do you really walk by that $10 bill sitting on the ground when no one else is even close to it. I thought not.

After the dive, then what?

Ok once you get the form filled out and the contributions moving you are in good shape. If you chose the lifecycle fund, you didn't have to think much at all. If you made things more complicated you may have to watch things a little bit more - still only 1 time a year. The next step is to increase your contribution. The best time to do this is when you get a raise. Say you are doing great and get a 4% raise. I would recommend you take 2% for your 401k and 2% for savings or investing depending on how your other financial goals are doing. You will get to the point when you can look the financial planner in the eye and say, "Yes, I am saving my maximum for retirement.

To have or to hold (onto)

2008-09-06T18:35:00.000-07:00

Ridding the house of "Stuff"

I am ruthless when it comes to going through closets, drawers, boxes, etc and purging. Assuming, of course, that I get around to it. That is where I fall down. I work very hard to make sure that I pack up the kids clothes when I change over seasons, but no other part of the house has such a schedule. I used to use those found evenings when my husband would go away or just go out late, but we don't do that anymore. :) So my challenge has been how to get back on track. I recently moved my daughter into a larger room from the nurser/office she was in. I used this opportunity to go through the contents of both closets and purge them of any office supplies, out grown clothes, toys etc that had been stashed away for "later use". I gave an old laptop to my MIL and tried to freecycle a few other things. Most didn't get picked up, so they go into the garage for the charity pick up. Once something hits the garage it is gone for good in my mind. My purging ways seem to have rubbed off on my husband, because today I found old softball uniforms and other assorted clothes in the get rid of pile.

What about the "Hard" stuff

So you are thinking, well of course, I put together bags of stuff to give to charity too. Clothes that no longer have use due to not fitting etc. There are so many things that we have that still have "life" in them. I just put about 10 picture frames into the garage pile. This article by JD at Get Rich Slowly is a great example of the internal struggle people go through. Books seem to be a favorite to hang onto. I certainly can relate to this. I have recently turned to the library as a frugal alternative to the bookstore. Not only will this reduce the books in my house to hold onto, but is a bonus for my checking account.

Get more life out of your stuff

Last year I invited my friends over one Sunday afternoon and told them to bring a bag. I had them go through all the outgrown kids clothes and take what they wanted for their kids. This way I didn't have to determine who should get what or possible foist too small clothes on someone. They only took what they needed/wanted and I was assured that they would be put to good use. I plan to do this same this year, maybe even next weekend and I can't wait to get the boxes out of my living room! Since we wear mostly hand-me-downs, it is nice to be able to help others' budgets and their time. I know sometimes it is time consuming to find the best place for things to go, but it is worth the time. The crib hasn't sold on craigslist yet, so I will be trying to find a new mother or domestic abuse shelter that might need it.

One step at a time

I think another thing that gets in our way of releasing our space and therefore our thoughts and spirits is how over whelming it can be. I highly recommend taking things slowly. Once closet or drawer at a time is fine. Any success is a success and one that should be celebrated - just not with shopping! I feel freer when I have got an area into ship shape order and removed things we don't need. I wonder if others feel the same way? Is there an organization gene? Maybe a high like the endorphins runners enjoy after a great workout. Either way, it makes me feel better and I bet you will too.

Book Review

2008-09-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

The Millionaire Next Door

When one leads you to another

I read Frugal Dad's blog everyday and a few weeks ago he led me to this post from the Simple Dollar. Basically a compilation of finance books, the Millionaire Next Door was recommended in the comments section and available at the library. My new frugal passion led me to the library instead of the book store.

What did I learn?

I will say this book was not completely my cup of tea. It is full of statistics, something that my history major personality doesn't always appreciate. I did glean 2 concepts which I think were worth the time. The first was the equation of age/salary and target net worth. Unfortunately for us, we are about 500k behind in our targeted net worth. The other piece was the continuous focus on living below your means. We have been aggressively paying off our debts, approximately $500-1k per month over the mandatory amount.

So what to do next?

What I need to do next is create a budget for us to work from. This will not only allow us to figure out where our money is going, but have a more stable amount of money for debt repayment. I think I mentioned this before, but the only debt we hold right now is the equity loan and the mortgage. I would love to pay off the equity loan so we can start saving for some work we want to do on the house. Most likely first on the list would be to replace the furnace and a kitchen remodel. I started to put our information into Mint.com, but haven't gotten very far. I will report back if I get it to a point that we can get some good data out of it.

How do you best determine your snowball?

CD Rollover Day

2008-09-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

Knew this day was coming
Our CD matured over the Labor Day weekend, so I put renewing it on my to do list for today. I wish I could tell you that I did all sorts of research at bankrate.com or some other site before I rolled over my CD, but I did not. I printed the rates from the bank's website and called the service desk. I found out I had to go to the bank in order to increase the $$ in the CD. So off I went, upping our 5k CD to 10k and receiving a rate of 3.84% for 15 months. Turns out, that was a pretty good deal, one that I got due to the Platinum relationship with them. The rate would have been 3.60% if we did not have this type of account. After checking on Bankrate, it seems like I got a good rate out, out of those available for 1 year, only one beat the 3.8%.

Maximizing the benefit of what you do anyways
I like having cash in the bank, it makes me feel secure and ready for any emergency that might come our way. I do always move money into savings when we get paid (or have it direct deposited works even better) as to keep that money "separate". As a result of liking to have cash on hand and a home equity loan that we took out a few years ago, I have a high dollar "relationship" with my bank. Turns out this gets us all sorts of small, but nice payouts. No charges for AMT (in or out of network), no charges for the account etc. Like I said, small, but they add up. If you have a similar situation, it might not be a bad idea to see what the bank can do for you, they may surprise you.

$205 richer today

2008-08-31T19:28:00.000-07:00

Craigslist rules

Discovery
I am a novice with Craigslist, although I have subscribed to its partner site, Freecycle, for some time. I had been trolling craigslist for a jogging stroller at the beginning of August and was successful in finding one. Goal was to increase my ability to train for my first 5K (more on that later). I have also been looking for a twin bed for my daughter. Anyways, I was won over and decided to give it a whirl to post some items for sale.

Success
I listed 2 desks, the crib, a queen head and footboard set, and some assorted nursery items. I got calls for both desks and the headboard set within hours. Everyone came today between 1 and 4, so I was feeling very successful.

Now what?
The question is what to do with my new found cash. My first instinct is to put it towards the home equity loan. (as you learn more about our fiscal positioning, we do not have any debt other then this loan and the mortgage.) Another idea is to start a separate account and as we gain these small snowflakes, add to it and then use the funds to invest outside of our retirement accounts. Let me know what you think I should do.