Its About Being All You Can Be

   

Paul and Me

    I can remember our days at Fort Bragg.  For our second tour there, I arrived pregnant.  That fall, our youngest was born, delivered from above in the Home of the Airborne Soldier.  His dad, a jumpmaster...his mom, a dirty nasty leg (non airborne soldier).  You can't go to airborne school with bum knees.   Still, I did my best to be all I could be.  When he was a year old, I was a 35 year old Captain (I had prior service)  and I weighed exactly 20 pounds more than I do today.  I took an Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) that December and earned my Physical Training Badge for scoring the maximum 300 on the Army Physical Fitness Test.  I think I did this purely on adrenalin.  My knees were pretty bad even then.  I just ran through the pain. 

   After that test, I never ran again for an APFT.  The issues with my knees just got worse.  And it spread to issues with my back.  Others noticed before I did.  When I ran in formation, I drifted...bumping into other runners.  I eventually went to the clinic.  They prescribed 800 mg Motrin.  They said I should take some time off from running.  They never went further, even with my history of knee problems.  We transitioned to our next assignment.  My knee never healed.  On a running profile that seemed never to end, I took the alternate APFT.  I maxed both the push ups and sit ups, but I had to take the alternate cardio test, I rode a bike.  On the alternate test, it is a go/no go score.  There is no max, no badge for doing your best.   I merely got a "go". 

    By 2001, when we reported to our assignment at Fort Huachuca, I was done.  When I signed in, I was told with the damage to my knee, I would face a medical board.  In the end, I faced two.  The first was like a cursory exam.  The second was done by the hospital commander, an Orthopedic doctor.  She took a more thorough look.  She did a second surgery that helped some, but it was too late now that it had spread to my back...and my other knee.  By the time it was all done, a laundry list of issues were discovered and I was retired from active duty.  On my last day, I asked what was I to do now... They merely told me to go home.  What they failed to do was to tell me what was next.  All I could think was...that's it?  I'm broken and you are kicking me to the curb?  I had spent my entire adult life in uniform.  The Army was my family.  Yet, there I was, sitting on the couch, waiting for further orders (and a hug).  

   When I began this blog, I did so because I wanted others out there to know its okay to feel broken or lost.  At times, we all do.  It doesn't mean its over.  Its all about being all you can be, finding your path, moving forward, and never giving up on yourself.  I had to reach deep down to find that warrior I knew was inside of me.  I had to crawl out of that hole I'd been buried in, raise my fist, and say, "No more."   

   I am 47 years old.  I have been out of the Army since October 2003.  I am broken, battered, bruised, and well, I guess I am now considered middle age...but I am still doing all I can do.  I am making better choices in the food I put in my body, and I am working out at least 5 out of 7 days a week.  No more whining about how much it hurts.  And no more fad diets.      

   I woke up this morning, still suffering from a head cold...I blew my nose.  There was blood.  I thought, "Well, that can't be good."  Still, I put on my work out clothes and followed my daily routine... I was sweating like crazy on that treadmill, but I made it through my five mile walk.  Today, at 1000hrs, my workout was complete.  When I stepped out of the shower, I already knew that today was going to be a good day.  My knee didn't give out once, even walking up the stairs.  I had done 300 repetitions of my little 5 pound weights, 20 push ups, 100 sit ups, and 50 butt lifts.  I drank a big glass of water, then remembered I was out of orange juice.  Mmmm...head cold + orange juice = feeling better.  I bundled up and popped out to the grocery store to get some.  When I came back, I made my whey protein drink.  As I drank, I wondered if the change in barometric pressure (its going to rain again) would make my knees hurt, my wrists give out (carpal tunnel), my big toes cramp up (one of my weirder issues)..to name a few.     

   When I checked my email, I had gotten one from an old military friend we haven't seen in years.  I had asked him to vote for me in the "Face of Fitness" contest a few days ago.  He had never responded, so I sent it again thinking it didn't go through.  He came back with, "I've voted once.  Enough already."  I felt bad.  Even with all my wonderful friends voting over and over, this one email made me feel down...sad.  I certainly didn't mean to be a bother, a nuisance.  

   You see, its not about the winning.  It never has been.  I entered this contest to get visibility on my blog.  I wanted people to read it, to share ideas with their friends and family, to talk about health and fitness.  This country is suffering from an epidemic of health related issues.  We are stressed out, eating the wrong foods, not getting enough sleep.  Its not about the cover of a magazine or a trip to Hawaii.  Its about wanting to inspire people to believe in themselves...to know its never too late...to find your warrior inside, to be your personal best, and well, to be all you can be.    

Out With The Bad, In With The Yummy

   When I got up this morning, I knew it for sure.  I had caught a head cold.  Still, I am a woman on a mission.  I rolled out of bed, got into my workout clothes, and followed my every day routine.  My husband is on one of his work trips.  Part of me wishes he were here to help.  Part of me is glad is not here to catch whatever I've caught.  It is such a struggle to get going when I am under the weather.  Ugh...When is the weather going to get warm and stay that way?  We have been teased with 78 degree days, then slammed with snow warnings.  Today, they say it will rain.  It is now 45 degrees.  

   Regardless, I saw our son out the door and watched his bus pull away.  Back to the real world.  I had a choice...cuddle up with a warm woobie blanket, a box of tissues, and a big glass of orange juice...or sweat it out.  I chose to sweat it out.  I am out of orange juice anyway.  

   Getting to five miles on the treadmill was a challenge today.  The sweat came much earlier than normal and my bum knee gave on me several times.  I had to hold on and catch myself.  I had to regain my focus.  "The Today Show" got me through.  I am so glad we put the television where I can walk and watch.  For a time, it was on a stand...too low for my height.  All I could do was listen..boring...

   When I finally reached the end, I felt like collapsing on the floor.  Instead, I grabbed my 5lb weights and did 100 repetitions of three distinct exercises.  I moved on to sit ups, then push ups, and finally ended with the butt lifts.  Then I collapsed.  : )  I lay there for a good five minutes before I realized...I could breathe through my nose.  Nice.  Out with the bad.

   I headed downstairs to focus on well, the yummy.  The other day, I went to Costco.  Our family loves Costco, especially our youngest.  He likes to graze on all their samples.  I don't worry.  He is small framed. The doctor actually said to let him eat anything he wants.  When I go there, and don't take him, he gets a little disappointed.  But I prefer to go when there are no lines.  I don't do crowds.
   This time, I went for the sole purpose of buying fruit for my smoothies.  At the wholesale clubs(like Costco, Sam's or BJ's), you can get the best bargains.  Let's face it, it takes a lot of fruit for my smoothies.  The grocery stores can get expensive. Me? I like bargains.  I walked around checking out all the latest stuff at Costco, but I never found my blueberries, my strawberries, or my raspberries.  I was ready to go home, when I noticed a woman carrying a huge container of the most beautiful strawberries I had ever seen.  So, I walked in the direction from which she had come.  Still, no strawberries.  Come on.  No fair.  I was walking at a pretty brisk pace (I do that) when I nearly collided with a very tall man who was standing in the produce section.  I came to halt.  He turned around and smiled.  He was a Costco employee.  "Can I help you?"
   I smiled back, but I know I must have looked pretty frustrated.  "Please tell me where I can find strawberries?"  He turned and pointed, "In the chiller."  It was less than 15 ft away.  I thanked him and walked in.  Kudos to his customer service.  Well, in the produce chiller, it was so cold, I wished I'd had brought a better jacket..and a hat...and mittens.  Still, I was in produce heaven, my heaven that is.  I bought 64oz (4lbs) of strawberries for $7.49, 18oz of blueberries for $7.49, 12oz of raspberries for $5.99, 4lbs of green grapes for $6.99, huge bags of Gala apples (an apple a day, right?) for $7.49 and Clementines for $6.99, and a 1lb tub of organic spinach for $3.99.  I also picked up a 4lb mixed fruit bowl for $12.99 (with pineapple, mangoes, red grapes, cantaloupe, honeydew, and strawberries).  My husband loves mango.  Our youngest loves cantaloupe.  I felt like a kid in the candy store. Then I remembered...goldfish and pistachios for the boys...veggies for mom.  I love Costco.  http://www.costco.com/
   I can remember the days long before fruits and veggies were important to our family, back when the fruit bowl on our kitchen table contained things like chips and cookies.  Nowadays, we are making better choices.  Not to say we don't support the Girl Scouts with their cookie drive.  Believe me, we do.  Our youngest can devour a box of thin mints in no time at all.  I didn't say we lived on fruits and veggies.  Its all about balance.  Ying and yang and all that.  Where do you find the best healthy bargains?

I Am My Father's Daughter

My promotion ceremony at the WIMSA Memorial January 2000.   Me, Dad, and Paul

    This photo was taken just minutes before I pinned on Major.  It was January 2000.  On February 8, 2003, we lay my father to rest two months shy of his 79th birthday.  There is not a day that goes by that I do not miss him and remember all that he taught me.  From our incessant ability to stand our ground in the face of adversity, to the tears we shed whenever old glory passed, we were very much alike.
    He taught me to always do what was right, to work hard, to maintain my independence.  He said there was nothing better than being at a baseball game, ice cream could cure anything, and you should always pay in cash whenever you can.

His article in the local newspaper, his Merrimac Museum.

    By the time I was 8 or 9, I was able to pitch a tent by myself, build a campfire, navigate the woods at night, and pick a tick out of my skin without flinching or being all girlie about it.
   He could swim under water the entire length of an Olympic size swimming pool and still make us laugh when he rose from the water looking remarkably like bozo the clown.  He always said we should live our lives like boy scouts.  Be prepared and follow the boy scout laws.  And he always did.  He didn't drink, or smoke.  And I never ever heard him utter a bad word.

Dad in World War II

    We both served in the Army during war.  With only a ninth grade education, he was drafted into World War II.  He was a Field Artilleryman.  He went to New Guinea and the Philippines.  He came home with loss of hearing from the big guns and malaria.  He said no one wore hearing protection back then.  If you did, you didn't hear the enemy coming at you.
    When he first found that he had "the diabetes" (its what he called it), I was still an enlisted soldier stationed in Germany.  It was 1984 and my supervisor was in the process of discussing my possible selection for officer candidate school.  With my father ill, I thought it best I be nearer to home.  I returned to Virginia and went to college in the next town over.  When he had convinced me he was feeling better, I began ROTC, and in time accepted an assignment in Korea.   
    I was a Signal soldier.  My wartime service was during Operations Desert Storm (Kuwait) and Restore Hope (Somalia).  When I went to war, I sent letters home nearly every day.  He forwarded them all to the local hometown newspaper.  He believed a soldier's story should be told.  Had I known, I might not have been as forthright about my time there.  One day, I'm going to finish putting his 300+ letters from World War II in this computer and publish them.  Two can play at that game.      
   When he was in his latter years, we would still talk, though it was often difficult.  He was significantly hard of hearing, and couldn't see because of cataracts.  The malaria had weakened his gums causing him to lose his teeth (he was so proud of the fake ones, he would smile all the time).
    For as long as he could, he managed to pick himself up and take a walk around the block (or further) even if he did carry his walker along just in case.  He used to say, if ever you lose your way, wander off...take a hike and find your path again.  You'll find it.
   The last lesson his taught was the summer before he died.  I was depressed and bitter after two back to back medical boards.  I felt my beloved military had let me down leaving me broken, with no where to turn.  We were sitting on the porch, when he reached in to his wallet and pulled out a yellowed piece of folded paper.  It was his discharge paperwork.  He had kept it in his wallet for nearly 60 years.  He handed it to me, looked up and said, "Bird" (he always called me bird) "No matter what happens, be proud of your service."    It was his final lesson.  That was August 2002.  It was the last time we talked.

Brian's promotion to Colonel, Fort Huachuca

   Today, I walk...Its not the Appalachian trail my father once walked, but it is what I am capable of now.  And in my small way, I hope I am teaching others, who feel they have lost their path, that they too can find it again with a little hike and a good attitude.  
  

Paul and me at Fort Huachuca

  

The Contest Begins

"I am only one, but I am one.  I cannot do everything, but I can do something.  And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do."  ~Edward Everett Hale

http://photos.fitnessmagazine.com/category/vote/photo/758365?esrc=nwphotofaves_fitcover


http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fphotos.fitnessmagazine.com%2Fcategory%2Fvote%2Fphoto%2F758365%3Fesrc%3Dnwphotofaves_fitcover&h=d1c5e


  This week begins the voting for the Fitness Magazine "Face Of Fitness" contest.   I have little hope of winning, but I do have hope that this small gesture will help me spread the word.  It is never too late and you are never too broken to say, "I can get healthy".   Please take the time to vote.  Voting for my entry ends at the end of the week.   


Now, on to my blog.  
  This weekend, while visiting with my family, my brother asked me about our treadmill.  Basically, did we like it?  I promised him I would let him know exactly what we had and send him the information as soon as possible.  
  A treadmill was absolutely a must for our family.  So much so, that in the fall of last year, I told my husband all I wanted for Christmas was a new pair of Shape Ups (I wore out the first pair) and a Treadmill we could share (next year, I'm going to suggest an elliptical). : )  I walked outside until I just couldn't take it anymore.  When it got cold, my arthritis became a problem.  I've had arthritis for years, brought on by my old army injuries.  As long as I stay warm, I can handle it.  I am a tough Army chick, after all.  It mostly hurts in my knees, back, and wrists.  Anyway, walking outside when its cold is not really an option.  And unless my husband decides on a move to a warmer climate, he knows he must without a doubt listen to me whine every year.   
  This year, no more whining.  We began shopping for treadmills in October.  We did our research on line, then headed out to the local stores.  What we really wanted was a sturdy machine with a simple display and a reasonable price tag.  Easy?  Not so much.  Everywhere we went, we found treadmills that fit the bill in one area, but never all.  
   Then, we went to Fitness Resource.  http://www.fitnessresource.com/product_detail.asp?pid=232  There, we selected the T9250 with the simple display.  It has a low front, so I (at 5'4 1/2") can see over the top.  I watch television while I walk so I don't get bored.  The only thing I wish it had was a connection for my Ipod, but no worries.  The ipod is in a clock stereo right behind me.  I love the fact that the sales representative at Fitness Resource worked with us to get us the exact treadmill we wanted, almost as we designed it ourselves.  Let's face it, treadmills are an investment.  You don't want buyer's remorse when you sign the papers for delivery.  Soon, our treadmill was delivered.  The guys who put it together checked it thoroughly, then took the time to show me how it worked.  They were fast, efficient, and courteous.  
   Now, each morning, I step on, set it for the time I want, my weight, and speed.  I catch up with the latest news on "The Today Show", and an hour and fifteen minutes later, I am really to do all the other stuff that makes up my personal workout.  Now that our youngest is working on his fitness merit badge in scouts, it has become a true family asset.  : )

    
  
   
   

The Contest Begins

"I am only one, but I am one.  I cannot do everything, but I can do something.  And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do."  ~Edward Everett Hale

http://photos.fitnessmagazine.com/category/vote/photo/758365?esrc=nwphotofaves_fitcover


  This week begins the voting for the Fitness Magazine "Face Of Fitness" contest.   I have little hope of winning, but I do have hope that this small gesture will help me spread the word.  It is never too late and you are never too broken to say, "I can get healthy".   Please take the time to vote.  Voting for my entry ends at the end of the week.   


Now, on to my blog.  
  This weekend, while visiting with my family, my brother asked me about our treadmill.  Basically, did we like it?  I promised him I would let him know exactly what we had and send him the information as soon as possible.  
  A treadmill was absolutely a must for our family.  So much so, that in the fall of last year, I told my husband all I wanted for Christmas was a new pair of Shape Ups (I wore out the first pair) and a Treadmill we could share (next year, I'm going to suggest an elliptical). : )  I walked outside until I just couldn't take it anymore.  When it got cold, my arthritis became a problem.  I've had arthritis for years, brought on by my old army injuries.  As long as I stay warm, I can handle it.  I am a tough Army chick, after all.  It mostly hurts in my knees, back, and wrists.  Anyway, walking outside when its cold is not really an option.  And unless my husband decides on a move to a warmer climate, he knows he must without a doubt listen to me whine every year.   
  This year, no more whining.  We began shopping for treadmills in October.  We did our research on line, then headed out to the local stores.  What we really wanted was a sturdy machine with a simple display and a reasonable price tag.  Easy?  Not so much.  Everywhere we went, we found treadmills that fit the bill in one area, but never all.  
   Then, we went to Fitness Resource.  http://www.fitnessresource.com/product_detail.asp?pid=232  There, we selected the T9250 with the simple display.  It has a low front, so I (at 5'4 1/2") can see over the top.  I watch television while I walk so I don't get bored.  The only thing I wish it had was a connection for my Ipod, but no worries.  The ipod is in a clock stereo right behind me.  I love the fact that the sales representative at Fitness Resource worked with us to get us the exact treadmill we wanted, almost as we designed it ourselves.  Let's face it, treadmills are an investment.  You don't want buyer's remorse when you sign the papers for delivery.  Soon, our treadmill was delivered.  The guys who put it together checked it thoroughly, then took the time to show me how it worked.  They were fast, efficient, and courteous.    
   Now, each morning, I step on, set it for the time I want, my weight, and speed.  I catch up with the latest news on "The Today Show", and an hour and fifteen minutes later, I am really to do all the other stuff that makes up my personal workout.  Now that our youngest is working on his fitness merit badge in scouts, it has become a true family asset.  : )

    
  
   
   

Over The River And Through The Woods

Brian, Me, Mom/Grandmom, and Paul 

   More like over the bridges, past two major amusement parks and over another longer bridge, to grandmother's house we go, but you get the idea.  On Saturday morning, we packed our overnight bags and headed down to Portsmouth to see my mom and my brothers.  Its always a bit of a challenge to carve out time in our crazy hectic schedules, but we do try to get there whenever possible.  On the way, we stopped at their favorite Barbecue place near Williamsburg, "Pierce's Pit" and picked up some lunch.  If you ever find yourself down on I64 heading towards VA Beach, stop off at exit 234 and visit Pierce's pit.  The food is wonderful even for us non beef, non pork eaters.  There is something for everyone.  Heck, I'd go there just for the collard greens (I am a southern girl, after all).  We got enough to feed the entire crew and headed east.  Once we arrived at Mom's/Grandmom's, we unpacked the food.  My mom couldn't wait to dive into the pork ribs.  That lady can eat some ribs.   Then again, so can my husband.  I was a bit downhearted because they had forgot to pack the hush puppies (and the kid's meal), but I guess someone upstairs wanted me to stick to my healthy eating plan...so no hush puppies.  Oh well.  Another day, another batch of hush puppies.  

    My mom wears a hearing aid and it seemed to be on the fritz this weekend.  She claims it doesn't fit because of her little ears.  Before we could settle in and catch up, she asked me to come with her to her bedroom.  She wanted to show me something.  We spent the next couple of hours perusing over her Elvis collection.  Every time we visit, she tries to give me stuff to take home.  I think its an old person thing, wanting to hand stuff down before they die, so they can ensure those left behind don't make any mistakes.  Needless to say, I never come home empty handed.  At this rate, we'll soon need more storage space.

Mike, Jim, Me, and Willie

   Eventually, we went back in the living room and talked.  The massive television is always on.  Strangely, wrestling wasn't on.  Instead, in the background, we could hear the news.  It always gives us something to talk about...or argue about...whichever works.
   Its always good to catch up with my mom and my brothers.  Of the three, only one has a computer.  Everyone else, you have to either call or write, and for some reason, everyone screens their calls.  Sometimes, it makes staying in touch difficult.  I recently began writing my mom letters the old fashioned way.  My wrist was sore for days afterward.  My husband suggested I just use the computer, and change it to script font.  She would think I had  lovely handwriting.  Sounds like a plan.
   After a while, we headed over to the Renaissance Hotel.  Its where we always stay.  The beds don't hurt my back, the staff is very friendly, and its relatively close to that little blue house I called home in my youth (long before I became military and nomadic).  We changed clothes and headed to the gym.  Yes, we worked out.  There is never an excuse not to work out even when visiting family.  Whenever we go on trips, the first thing we ask is, "Do you have a gym?"  I know...weekends are recovery time.  But I figured why not?  Our youngest is working on his Fitness Merit Badge in scouts.  He needs to work out whenever he can and we need to set the example.  My calf started to hurt a bit, so I went back up to the room earlier than the boys.  I didn't worry.  My knee was fine and that's where the injury is.  It felt better after a nice hot shower and Motrin.  I'm sure it was just from sitting in the car for three hours.  Once everyone got back, we went to dinner in the hotel.  It was easy.  Too cold to venture outside.  I had a wonderful dish they called a Portabello Mushroom Stack with asparagus, and sealed the deal (or the meal) with a very nice Cabernet.  I fell asleep cuddled up to my husband while he watched a movie on television.  Our youngest was watching his own movie on the laptop computer.
    The next morning, it was rainy and cold.  We wondered if Mom/Grandmom would want to even go out (she is nearly 83 years old and on a walker).  But she loves an outing even it only means a trip to the local IHOP for breakfast...  I had the harvest nut and grain blueberry pancakes with sugar free syrup.  Mmmm.
After breakfast, we headed back to the house for a few minutes, then got back on the road.  She is always so happy to see us, so sad when the time comes that we have to leave.  But she knows departure is inevitable.  Our lives are not in Portsmouth.  Tomorrow is a work/school day.  We had a long drive ahead of us.  I'll sit down and write another letter this week.  I know its not as good as a visit, but it will make her smile.  And you know what I say, "It all counts."

Mom and Me

 
     

Changing My Sail

  
I mentioned yesterday that we were going to the promotion ceremony of a dear friend.  Well, we arrived earlier than expected.  You never know what kind of traffic you will hit driving into DC.  My husband dropped the ladies (myself included) off at parking lot.  He had brought the truck, so no parking was available.  He had to go over to the airport to park, then Metro back.  We did the necessary security checks, then followed our escort a very long way to the auditorium where we sat and waited for the Gentlemen.  I haven't been to the Pentagon in years, not since my husband retired from active duty.  As I walked through its seemingly endless corridors, I couldn't help but notice how much it has changed over the years.  No longer did the building have the feel of confining catacombs like it once did when I was a Major.  I know many changes have taken place.  But perhaps, not only the building has changed.  Perhaps, I have changed.
   I once heard "You cannot change the wind, but you can adjust your sail."  You can't change things around you, but you can change how you react to them.  I don't know if I ever mentioned it, but along with my many physical ailments, I have a few others that seem to haunt me.  I have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorder, and I've been known to have issues with panic disorder.  I also have Fybromyalgia pain which has been attributed to stress.  For years, I have fought the battle with facing my fears and my anxieties.  What can I say?  I did mention that I was pretty messed up from my time in service.  I am fortunate to have a wonderful, loving husband that puts up with me.  Though he always claims its me putting up with him.
   I have become an expert at controlling my environment, ensuring I am not in situations that would trigger my issues.  The Pentagon was once a trigger.  You see, I also battle claustrophobia.  Wandering through those halls, one can feel confined with no way out.
   I tell you all this because, yesterday, I had no such feeling.  Between our arrival, the ceremony (which was standing room only...our friend who was promoted is much beloved by many), and our departure...I didn't once get that anxious feeling.  I walked the halls, admiring the changes to the place I once worked, and I had a smile on my face.  I walked the hallways with pride to have once been a part of the Pentagon experience.  Had I washed away all the fear I once felt?
   Truth is...The Pentagon was still the same.  She had a shiny new coat of paint, and we still made wrong turns as we tried to find our way around.  The building structure was still just as confusing.  She had not changed.  Truth is...The wind did not change.  I only adjusted my sail.
   I could walk the Pentagon for miles, and I knew it.  I had become healthier, more fit, and in the process lessened some of pain I once had.  When we were asked if we wished to take the elevator, I chose take the stairs.  I held on to the railing, but I was doing stairs...with these knees.  Even out of uniform, I felt like I belonged there.
  In the evening, we attended our friend's promotion party.  It was crowded with friends and family.  Someone bumped into me and spilled my drink.  I sat the cup down on the table and moved on.  No worries.  I had a great time.  I chatted with old friends.  I made new ones.  There were a lot of hugs.  Not only did my anxieties not become an issue, I stood the whole time, and my back didn't hurt.  My back with its herniation, its degenerative disease, its bone spurs, and that straightened C-Spine...that back that I can usually set my watch too...(its going to be 15 minutes on my feet before I feel that twinge and have to sit down).  I didn't sit down once.
   When we left the party, I felt wonderful.  I was a bit tired from the long day that I had begun with a five mile walk, 300 repetitions of my weights, 100 sit ups, 20 push ups, ad 50 butt lifts, but I had no pain and no anxiety.  And you'll note, I added an extra mile for all the walking I did after my morning walk.  It was a good day and I wanted more.  I wanted to reach out to others and say, "You can do this too."  You can have great days...just by adjusting your sail.
        
     

Its Friday. Let's Add A New Exercise

    Its going to be a busy day.  My husband and I are headed to a ceremony in town.  A dear friend is getting promoted.  I asked him if I had time to work out.  I did.  So, I headed downstairs.  I don't really have time for a super long blog, but I wanted you to know, I added a new exercise.  You will love this one.  Today I added the butt lift.  Give it a try.  Its easy, it does wonders for your rear view, and it requires no special equipment.  
   First, you lay flat on your back on a mat with your knees bent.  Place your arms down by your sides.  Raise  your pelvis up toward the ceiling to a point where your body will be at a 45 degree angle.  When raised, be sure to really flex your butt for a one-count. Hold it.  Now return to the start position and repeat.  Today, I did 50 repetitions.  

  Seeing as I am seriously sweaty after my extended workout, I must now hit the showers.  Time to get pretty for the ceremony.  Enjoy your Friday.  Remember...make good choices.  : )        

 

Its Friday. Let's Add A New Exercise

    Its going to be a busy day.  My husband and I are headed to a ceremony in town.  A dear friend is getting promoted.  I asked him if I had time to work out.  I did.  So, I headed downstairs.  I don't really have time for a super long blog, but I wanted you to know, I added a new exercise.  You will love this one.  Today I added the butt lift.  Give it a try.  Its easy, it does wonders for your rear view, and it requires no special equipment.  
   First, you lay flat on your back on a mat with your knees bent.  Place your arms down by your sides.  Raise  your pelvis up toward the ceiling to a point where your body will be at a 45 degree angle.  When raised, be sure to really flex your butt for a one-count. Hold it.  Now return to the start position and repeat.  Today, I did 50 repetitions.  

  Seeing as I am seriously sweaty after my extended workout, I must now hit the showers.  Time to get pretty.

Enjoy your Friday.  Remember...make good choices.  : )        

 

Achoo

   I got up this morning, ran through the usual routine, then noticed the empty refrigerator.  Okay, to be honest, it was brought to my attention by the 8th grader I live with.  He has finally reached the age when food is important.  "Mom, I need whole milk.  Mine has expired."  I reply, "Can't you drink your dad's fat free milk."  

I believe, "Gross" was the word he used.  Then again, maybe he just gave me a look.  I can't remember.  Subsequently, he added that he was out of his yogurt and his favorite mac and cheese.  He has to remind me of things like that.  I don't eat them.  

   Suddenly, I had an urge to remind him of something.  "Did you pack up all your homework?  Oh, and did you remember to take your allergy medication?  Of course, he had.  He isn't old and forgetful like his mom.  When I saw he was safely on the bus (yes, I still watch..he'll always be my baby), I headed downstairs.  Five miles on the treadmill, weight repetitions, push ups, sit ups...I looked at possibly doing some jump rope but decided maybe tomorrow.  I had things to do, errands to run.  

   I took a drive over to the mall.  I wanted to check out the book store to see if they had anything I might like.  I picked up "The Lincoln Lawyer".  I'll read it after I finish "True Grit".  I've gotten in to the habit of reading books that are made into movies.  Why?  Because we rarely go out to movies anymore.  Normally, we wait for when they come to On Demand.  Its nice to watch them in the comfort of our living room.  The floors aren't sticky and I know the bathrooms are clean.  

   Afterwards, I hit the grocery store.  Milk, yogurt, bananas...let's see, am I forgetting anything?  Pepper cheese.  My husband loves pepper cheese.  At $6.49 for 5.2oz, it shows I love my husband.  Its the little things that count.  Mac and cheese... Mmmm...honey Chobani.  Don't get distracted.  Stick to the list.  Its getting late.  I have to get home so I can blog.  

   To get back to today's topic (and the reason for the photo), the big news around these parts is the upcoming Cherry Blossom Festival (ha ha, I sound just like the girl in "True Grit").  When are the buds going to be in full bloom?  When are the tourists going to descend on Washington, DC?  They may be here now.  I have no idea.  We've lived in this area three times, for a total of ten years and I have never been to a Cherry Blossom Festival.  I am sure the trees are lovely.  If you know me, you know...I love trees.  But I don't do well in crowds, so I avoid DC this time of year.  Its not just me though.  Our youngest has allergies.  He is a mess when the pollen count is high.  With his red eyes and sneezing, its not a good idea to be outside in the Spring.

   We've all had our share of issues with allergies.  I have a friend with allergies to seafood.  Another who would swear she is allergic to vegetables.  : )

   When I was a kid, my mother would have to set me up at a separate table because my father drowned his food in vinegar.  When I sat at the table with him, my eyes would itch, my throat would feel scratchy, and breathing was difficult.  She thought it would be simpler just to move me to another room.  I still have the problems with vinegar, but its easier to avoid now that I am older.  They tested me when I was in the Army, but I never took medication for it.  What would they have done, really?   I just have to read labels and avoid it.  How hard can that be?  At social functions where they insist on putting it on salad, I ask for one without.  At Easter, my husband is in charge of dying the eggs.  Someone once broke a bottle at the grocery store.  I had to leave.  Maybe its just a food sensitivity, but I have to really watch it.  It can also trigger those nasty migraines.  I recently found out that my brother has the same issue.  Perhaps its genetic.  

   I don't think my husband is allergic to anything in particular, but let me tell you...when he starts sneezing, it seems like he won't ever stop.  He just goes on and on.  Eventually, he has to tell us to stop saying God Bless You.  I guess if you sneeze more than two or three times, its an automatic blessing.  

   This time of year, every other commercial seems to be about allergy medications.  As I watch the cherry blossoms in and around where we live, I know they will soon begin telling us the day's pollen count.  I know my car will turn yellow.  I know, like many others, I will be saying, "Achoo."     

   

     

   

The Cat And The Snooze Button

   My husband and I have what you would call dueling snooze buttons.  Our clocks are set roughly 2 minutes apart.  Mine goes off with an alarm, his with music that steadily gets louder if you fail to hit the button.  Its difficult to ignore mine, but sometimes with his we just lay there and listen to the music...until it gets loud enough that it might wake our teenager.  He gets up later...and he gets his 5 minutes too.

   This morning, my husband is away on one of his work trips.  Usually that means, I don't snooze.  I never snoozed before I met him.  Why snooze when he is away?  Its not like I need that extra 9 minutes.  By the way, I have no idea why it is 9 minutes exactly.  I do know this bothers me as I like round numbers.  But, seeing as I would have to put my readers on to figure it out, I let it slide.  Don't sweat the small stuff, right? Anyway, this morning at 0600hrs, my alarm sounded (his is turned off).  Maybe it has become a bit instinctual to hit that snooze button when it goes off.  I don't know.  And besides, I am not really awake.  I hit it...and I roll over fully prepared to enjoy that extra 9 minutes.  

   Just as I drift back off, I hear a meowing.  The cat is sitting next to the bed.  "So, when are you getting up?  I want my breakfast...now," she seems to say.  In truth, she is just sitting there.  But she has this stare that goes right through you.  I duck my head under the covers and say, "Go away.  I'm snoozing.  Just 9 more minutes."  But what she hears is, "Come up on the bed.  I'll pet you for a bit.  Then I'll race you down the stairs.  We will meet in the kitchen, where I will feed you your favorite.  Doesn't salmon sound good?"   She meows for a bit longer, then gives up.  When the alarm goes off again, she is there, at the top of the stairs...waiting for me.  I peek in and tell our youngest his extra minutes has begun, then I go feed the fish.  She is as patient as cat can be.  She would like to race me, but the new hard wood staircase forces her to be a bit more cautious in her descent.  Still, she eventually meets me in the kitchen...where I do as expected...I feed her...even before I make my coffee.  She just stares at the food.  "Woman, don't you know this is dinner food?  I want Philadelphia cream cheese."  I walk away, coffee in hand, "Not today fur face."  I'm not as easy as dad.     

   I have been talking so much about eating right and exercising, I forgot to mention how important it is to get enough sleep.  I used to have issues with sleep.  I was even on Ambien for a time.  My husband and I both have significant problems with our backs.  I've got the herniated disc, a couple of disc bulges, the straightened C-Spine, early degenerative disease, yada yada yada... A local chiropractor said I'd be in a wheelchair by now (if I didn't complete his pricey therapy program).  Is it childish and immature to blow raspberries at a doctor?  

   My husband's back injuries stem primarily from our multiple Fort Bragg assignments.  For years, we suffered.  For years, we tried to suck it up and drive on.  I spent many a day at the doctor's office, many a night on pain medications.  I missed a lot.  I didn't have too.  All I needed was to educate myself.      

   It helped immensely when we shopped around and decided to get a better bed.  My mother (now in her 80's) has one of those Tempur-Pedic beds that she swears by.  We decided to get a Select Comfort Sleep Number bed.  The money we would've spent on that chiropractor, we instead spent on a better bed.  He likes a firm mattress.  I like mine soft.  It has changed our lives.  Now, even with our old Army scars, we know what it is like to actually get a good nights sleep.  So, maybe its okay to snooze a little.   Now, if I could just get the cat to understand.  

Three Hundred Miles

  
Today, I hit the 300 mark in my journey towards walking 1000 miles in 2011.  To celebrate the occasion, I had my husband take a bunch of photos, even some in my bikini.  After seeing the look on his face, I guess fit is the new sexy.    
   On the cover of my March "Fitness" magazine, I noticed a contest for the face of fitness.  I go back and forth as to whether or not I should enter.. Though I am proud of my accomplishments so far, I told my husband I thought I was too old, and well, not pretty enough for the cover of a magazine.  And besides, they want entrants to send in five "fit" photos.  Was I being selfish to not even try?  If my blog is mentioned in a national magazine, I could reach more people, help them to do as I am doing.  I could help others get on track with their own health and fitness issues.  The model on the cover of the issue is in her bikini.  She is very young...twenty something, I'd guess, and very pretty.  
   When I was twenty, I didn't look nearly that good.  I was probably ten pounds heavier than I am now.  And by twenty-one, I was even heavier.  Not to make excuses, but I was living in Germany at the time.  I was young and naive enough to believe I could eat and drink whatever I liked.  That's why, at the time, I was put on the Army weight control program.  Now I know better.  "You will learn more from things that happen to you in real life than you will from hearing about or studying things that happen to other people." (Proverb)  In other words, Experience is the best teacher.  
   Anyway, back to present..me, at 47 years old.  Would my husband be upset if I put one of those bikini photos on my blog?  He said he was proud of me...and well, I do wear that same bikini at the beach for the world to see.  Maybe just a small one with a partial view to show my training progress.  What are the chances he won't read this particular blog?  ; )

At home, March 2011

   

Hawaii's North Shore November 2009

  


   I know I have come a long way, but I still feel as if I have a long way to go.  Every day is a challenge.  Not only must I overcome my own injuries, but I have taken upon myself this mission to inspire others who may have given up on their own fitness goals.  I want to let them know they are not alone.  No one is too broken or too old to begin a personal program.  Remember, I have a list of medical issues as long as my arm.  We need to get up and get moving, stop saying what we can't do and start saying what we can do.  It is never too late to begin eating healthier and getting fit.  And if we work together, we can learn from each other.  We can make a difference in each other's lives.  And we can change the world...one person at a time.  We can all...walk that extra mile.  
   Well, time for my Chobani.  I'm thinking Pomegranate today topped with a bear naked fruit and nut.  Mmmm.   

  
   
         

Year Of The Rabbit

   After I worked out this morning, I ran out to do a few errands.  My Stepdaughter in the Peace Corps.  Every now and then, we put together a care package to send her.  When it was all ready to go, I headed over to the post office to ensure she got it by Easter.  I know Easter isn't until the 24th of April, but things happen, and well...it is going all the way to Africa.  "If you are reading this Jen, don't worry.  Nothing will melt this time."  And tell your Sweetie we remembered the pistachios.  : )
   When I left the post office, I decided I should drop by the store and pick up a few things for our kids on this continent.  I popped into Walmart.  It made sense.  While there, I could also get some of my Jillian Michael's whey protein (don't want to run out).  I quickly grabbed the mix, then headed over to the candy section.  We'd already picked up a few things, but not enough to fill the box.  What could a little more hurt?  Well, I am such a bad Easter bunny.  As I told the lady at the checkout stand, I went a little crazy.  I kept thinking our kids in college would want enough to share with their friends.  Then I thought our youngest would also want extra to share when his friends came over to hang out and play video games.  After that, I thought my husband might want to take a bag into work to share with his work mates.  What can I say?  I was born in the year of the rabbit.  Maybe its instinctual to go a little overboard for Easter.

   I looked for a sugar free dark chocolate bunny (for myself), but I never found one.  So I just picked up a few of the treats I keep around the house, the ones that satisfy my sweet tooth yet leave behind no guilty feelings.  After all, how can one possibly live without chocolate?  Speaking of chocolate, my husband and I were in our neighborhood Wegman's yesterday.  Guess what I found out.  Not only do they now stock several different flavors of Chobani Greek yogurt, but they also stock most of the different Bear Naked Granolas.  And, get this... the new one is called Heavenly Chocolate.  A serving is 130 calories, 16 grams of whole grain, 2 grams of fiber, 3 grams of protein, 7 grams of sugar, and no trans fat.  You have to be careful with your portion size.  You will be tempted to eat the entire bag.  I had a bit in my yogurt this morning.  I don't recommend it with the pineapple. Its very sweet, kind of like Cocoa Krispies cereal.  Try it with the plain vanilla instead.  

   If you are out hunting for Easter candy, resist the urge to eat what the kids are eating.  Remember, there are plenty of sugar free or low sugar sweets out there that are just as good as what they are having.  

   

    

Crunch Time

    This morning, I woke up with an urge to work out.  Today is the first day of Spring.  Its official.  I have made it through the winter without throwing my back out, visiting a doctor for anything more than a refill of multivitamins, or taking anything stronger than a couple of 200mg Ibuprofen.  I was motivated and well, exhilarated.  All this healthy living must be working.
    Well, my husband also woke up with an urge to workout.  I asked if he wanted to walk with me, but he wanted to run on the treadmill.  I soon discovered that the temperature has dropped forty 40 degrees in two days.  There goes that idea.  I wasn't walking outside.  I still have to deal with arthritis issues; therefore, cold is bad.  I really wish mother nature would quit teasing me with nice days and just bring on the warm weather.
    After downing my vitamins with a large glass of water, I had a wonderful cup of my favorite hazelnut decaf.  Decaf only nowadays.  The treadmill would be occupied for a while.  No problem.  I decided it would be a good day to do some abdominal work.  Its always a good day to work on the abs, right? : )
   Well, If you are fortunate enough to have "On Demand", I recommend you check out exercise tv.   http://www.exercisetv.tv/  Go to the on demand menu, select sports and fitness, then scroll down to exercise tv.  From there, you can select whatever you like.  Its a wonderful way to try out exercise videos for free.  I did two today.  I did the ten minute AM Standing Abs, then followed with the twenty-five minute Crunch Action Ass and Abs.  The AM standing abs really wasn't enough.  Crunch action was a good workout.  The time passed quickly.  Initially, it was a bit stressful on my knees, but I was careful to keep focus on my back side and abs.  I was able to keep up with the much younger trainer.  That alone, felt amazing.  Aren't there any trainers my age, with my issues, out there?  Anyway, I liked it so much, I decided to check out their website.  http://www.crunch.com/Centerstage.aspx  It seems Crunch is a chain of gyms, a franchise.  None are nearby, but that's why we have technology right?  To bring the gyms to us.
   One thing is for sure, these "On Demand" workouts are a great way to get in your daily exercise especially if you are strapped for time.  And I love the idea of trying things before I buy.  Want to get in a quick cardio, explore yoga, or just focus on a trouble zone, these short videos are well worth checking out.  Once you find one you like, they do sell the DVDs, and usually they are quite reasonable.
   Busy day today.  The boys are heading out to do some volunteer work for a wounded warrior.  I'm attending a neighborhood brunch to welcome a new addition.  Yes, I'll be good.  I will resist the temptation of the brunch time Bloody Marys and the sweet and decadent treats she is sure to have.  Well, I'd better get ready.  Enjoy your first day of Spring.      
 

Go Nuts

    This morning, when I woke up, I was looking through the cabinets for something (I can't remember what) and was distracted by the Emerald nuts I recently purchased.  I didn't have any at the time, but I pulled them out anyway...just to show my husband.  I did this primarily because it looked as if I was the only one eating them.  Let me begin by saying, I feel so sorry for anyone that has a nut allergy because I am such a nut for nuts.  I could demolish a small bowl of shelled unsalted peanuts in no time.  And my husband has to have his supply of pistachios handy.  Just thinking about a spoonful of crunchy peanut butter makes my mouth water.  Down girl.
   Years ago, I went through the comprehensive testing that followed Desert Storm veterans with symptoms of Gulf War Illness (GWI).  I took part in the testing because my husband and I wanted to have a baby.
    I had heard horrible things about the effects of GWI and I was hesitant to try to get pregnant until I had been cleared medically.  You see, since I had returned from the war, I had suffered with chronic migraines.  The lead doctor in charge of the testing at Walter Reed told me he didn't believe in Gulf War Illness, but they would run tests on me anyway to try to ascertain the logical cause of my headaches.  They never did.
   In the course of the testing, they did discover I had high cholesterol, the bad kind.  I'll admit I kind of glazed over when they started talking LDLs and HDLs, but I got the bottom line of the discussion.  I had been eating whatever I liked and as the doctor's put it...that was a bad thing.  I was effectively shortening my life by my poor food choices.  I had to make some big changes.  It all threw me for a loop.  I never saw it coming.  I never saw myself as a big woman though, for my short stature, I was a bit curvy.  I met the weight standards for my age group.  And at the time (before my back went bad), even with knee problems, I kept up with the physical fitness program.  I could even get a max score my Army Physical Fitness Test.  I wasn't in bad shape, so I thought.
   I guess its normal for military personnel to eat poorly.  By today's definition, we never had what you would call healthy breakfasts.  We often rushed through lunches for meetings and, with long hours, dinners were almost always late in the evening.  Fast food was a way of life.  Who knew it was bad for you?
  Even as early as basic training, they would hand us a serving spoon (in lieu of a fork), and hurry us through the meals...According to the drill sergeants, there was little time to waste sitting on our butts eating.  It was mostly carbohydrates, and we were ordered to shovel it in.  There was training to get back to.
   For the years following basic training, I had amazed friends and family at my ability to eat fast and get back to whatever we were doing.  What could I say?  It had literally been drilled into me at the young age of eighteen.  One thing was for sure, relearning what and how to eat, after a lifetime of bad habits, would be something of a challenge to my lifestyle.
   Many of us still maintain that kind of rush rush attitude when it comes to eating.  And we are stuck in this rut believing we have to eat three meals a day, and that snacking is bad.  Right now, I'd say I primarily eat five times a day...small healthy things that I know my body can handle.  And, as I said before, I do eat nuts.      
   Studies have shown that eating certain nuts can lower high cholesterol and, though I haven't had high cholesterol for years, I know keeping it low is a good thing.  Besides, lowering high cholesterol reduces the risk of heart disease, right?  I really like these Emerald 100 calorie packs.  Now, I should warn you.  The portions are small, but if you eat them slowly, they can be quite filling.  And the cocoa roast dark chocolate flavor are a real treat.  Keeping these and other 100 calorie packs handy can give you options and I am all for having healthy options on hand.      

http://lancaster.unl.edu/food/ftmar04.htm

Friday Wrap Up

    Its was a beautiful morning, so I decided I'd venture outside to walk.  I looked down at my legs.  Ugh...I am so white.  Before I could turn around and go back inside to put on some long pants to hide my shame, I ran into my neighbor.  She was also going for a walk.  So, for the first time in months, I had a walking buddy.  We put our individual music devices away and talked.  It was really wonderful having someone to walk with.  I'll admit, sometimes I get bored walking.  On the treadmill, the television helps distract me...In the neighborhood, I have my ipod (which I desperately need to update with the latest tunes).  We walked together all the way to our respective turning points then split.  I took the hill.  She headed for the high school.  I looked for her on the way back, but we never linked up.  Fortunately, I had my music.  In the end, I completed more than four miles.  When I got home, I found that I had more energy so I hopped on the treadmill and did two more.  I should pass the 300 mile mark next week, well on the way to my one thousand mile goal for the year.  Hey, what can I say?  It feels good to walk.
   I did my normal weight repetitions and push ups, then followed with sit ups.  No more doing sit ups on the bed.  My rug burn has finally healed.  I can lock my feet under the weight bench and go to town.  Sit ups are my strongest area, but I need to find an additional abdominal exercise that doesn't stress my back injuries.  With my back, I always need to be careful.  I went up to take a shower.  For some reason, I haven't been weighing myself lately.  I think I was waiting for my husband to show me how to work the body fat indicator or something.  Today, I thought what the heck..and did it.  Weight looks good.  No, I'm not going to tell you.  Would you tell me your weight?  Besides, my husband reads this and I don't want him to start force feeding me.  I feel better than I've felt in years.  I'm healthier now, and getting more so every day.  That's what's important.  Sunday, 20 March, is the first day of spring.  That means in two more days, I will have made it through the winter without throwing my back out.  I feel like celebrating, jumping for joy, dancing on tables even.  Yeah, I know...that probably would not be good for the back.
   Anyway, enough of that.  I want to take time to follow up some of my previous blogs.  In the blog "Be well", I talked about GNC's whey protein powder...called "Be Buff".    You remember? The expensive one.  Well, just so you know, its really good.  If I compare to the Jillian's Michaels powder, I would say, hers is like a slushie, GNCs is like a milkshake...smoother and creamier.  I don't mind the slushies, but on occasion, a milkshake smoothie is a nice treat.  I still don't think I'll use theirs every day...I mean, its a pretty hefty price and well, I do like Jillian's whey protein powder.  Really, its up to you.  Me?  I don't intend to go broke on whey protein powders.  By the way, I noticed "The Biggest Loser" has their own chocolate and vanilla whey proteins in Safeway stores...  I like their blueberry and raspberry flavors.  Maybe I'll try them next.  The price is comparable to Jillian's (that I have only found in Walmart)...10 to 11 dollars a can for about 16 servings.
   Before I forget, my husband really liked the stuffed green peppers I made yesterday in the slow cooker.  Here is the recipe:

Healthier Stuffed Peppers

Pour large can (28oz) whole tomatoes into slow cooker

Cut 4-5 medium green peppers in half lengthwise...set aside.

Mix in a bowl..1 pound ground turkey, 1/2 cup diced celery, 1/2 cup diced onion, 1 egg (beaten), 1 cup whole grain brown rice...

Divide mixture among peppers

Arrange peppers up right over whole tomatoes in slow cooker...

Mix in separate bowl...1 can low sodium tomato soup, 1 1/2 tspn chili powder, 1 tspn ground cumin, 1 tspn red pepper (or more if you like them spicy), 1 tspn fresh minced garlic, 1 cup water.

Pour over peppers in slow cooker

Slow cook on low for 8-10 hours.
Add pepper to taste (I never add additional salt).
(If you like, sprinkle with your favorite cheese, but remember...keep it light).
The house smells wonderful...
And these are even better the next day.  

Have a great weekend, but stay on track.  : )