Lurkers Invitation June

[janiejoey]

My asparagus is not growing. I called the Co. I got them from and they are going to credit my account. That was really nice, but, I worked really hard planting them and getting everything ready for them. It's unusual, but not one came up. I wonder what happened? Oh well.

Well - things did not go according to plan - although I did better eating wise -simply because I ran out of Cheez-Its - thank God!!! Had some fresh cherries instead - awfully good too.
Unfortunately, I started 4DS Kickbox workout with all my good intentions in place. My back - goodness it was just not happy and it forced me to quit straight away. From that moment on - really was in pain all night - I couldn't find a good spot to lay that would allow me some peace. I did end up sleeping some and the pain did subside a little the next morning. My drive in was not pleasant - and I was praying it would end soon. Right now - I feel, well - better but the pain is still there. I don't even know why it hurts like this. I called the doctor and have been waiting for them to call back. Hopefully, I will be well enough to exercise tonight.
Janie - glad Joey is coming home soon - that will be nice for you. You have been really busy with all that cleaning - I know I feel rather good when the house is in order. Glad the zoo was a great day. Did a little gardening yesterday - love to watch things grow. Most every annual I planted in a pot seems to be doing quite well. On the flip side while I was doing a bit of planting yesterday the dogs would come on by and trample them to death. Hope they make it.
Hope everyone has a great day!!! It is a great week for birthdays - Laura's was on Sunday, My nephew's was on Monday and My sister's is today.

Shoegal, Oh no. I hope your back improves like right now. Take it easy, OK? And make sure your stretch when you are warmed up and after a workout. I did some weeding today. I had to call the people I ordered my asparagus from, cause they are not growing for some reason. Not even one. They credited my account. Wasn't that nice. The bad thing is, I'm not planing on planting them again very soon at all. That was tough work, for nothing. Oh well. I'll think of something else to take their place, hopefully less work. So glad to see your plantings are coming out great.

Hi everyone,
Been quiet on the check-in lately, huh? Must be summertime. Anyway did my Pilates class this morning, pretty gentle with lots of stretching, and just did GSBS&B. I think I need to go up in weight soon. I am right at that point where I can do it through with good form and it is tough but not quite tough enough yet jumping up 5 lbs might be to much. Any suggestions of how to increase weight safely?
Janey: Wow sounds like you have been on a Serious Clean Max kick. I need to do that around here too.... take the time to get beyond the surface clean and go deep....glad you enjoy your grandson so much. You are lucky to spend so much time with him. My mom is considering moving to Boulder to be closer to us.

Laura, I think your right, it's quite because of Summer. Great job on your class and workout. Congratulations on going up in weight. Good going! I use .5-1 pound wrist bands. It works for me to increase heavier.

Have a good evening everyone,

Janie

 

[MDolfiniReed]

Gosh, you miss one day and there is so much going on. First things first, this morning I did Body Max--the whole thing: step, circuits, weights work, abs. I've been doing just the step and circuits and decided to kick it up a notch today. Jeesh! I forgot how fast Cathe goes through the weight work. I just went at my own speed so I didn't mess up on form and risk injury.

Speaking of injury. Yikes, Shoegal, a hurt back. I put my back out for a little over a week last year right after labor day by doing something stupid: lifting up the stepbox on the boat first thing in the morning. Not a good idea. Sounds like you are not sure why your back is hurting. Could it be stress. A few days rest then a routine of back exercises for two weeks is how I got better last year. Don't overdo--your back is so important.

Shoegal: for the latest round of ebay sales, I've been putting up for auction clothes that I have never worn or don't wear anymore but are like new. I sold a pair of sandals that I bought but don't really fit and 3 Victoria Secret racerback shirts this go around. I have more stuff to put up for auction, just have to get my act together. I usually list about 5 items at a time. Plus ebay is starting a new policy where if you list at least 5 items for auction, you don't pay the listing fee. I don't know if that's just for summer or a permanent deal, but it sounds good to me.

Janie: whew all that house cleaning--you've tired me out. Looking forward to hearing about Meso 3 once you and Joey get back to it again. Hope he had a good time.

Laura: with regards to going up in weights, Janie suggested weight magnets in half pound or pound increments a while back when I was noting my challenge with going from 10 pounds to 12 on my dumb bells for bicep and hammer curls. I've got that on my mental "check it out" list for this summer.

Finally, where oh where has our Shadowpup gone?
~michelle

 

[ladubose]

Supper quick check in as I am late to go and visit my Aunts and Uncles up in Estes Park, squeezed in B&G this morning, hence running late...personals later!

 

[Shoegal]

Check in Wednesday

Hey all -

I honestly feel all old and broken down when I mention my back. It has totally sidelined me - there is simply no relief. It doesn't matter what I take or what I do - I'm in pain. Last evening I decided to take Laura's advice and just take it easy - not do anything. So I did nothing but lay on the floor with my legs up on the coffee table - my pups loved that I was down there - let me tell you. They were relentless. Gotta love those girls though. I thought perhaps I'd feel a little better - nope - that didn't work. Today I go to see a chiropractor - this was one option - others were the emergency room (this I was totally against), an orthopedic guy, a physical therapist, or the little Med station nearby. So I will go today - hopefully he will send me on my way pain free - yes, I know - but I can dream can't I?

Janie - sorry your asparagus didn't grow - wondering why it was so much work - isn't it just like planting anything else or was there a lot of it? I'm impressed you are getting a credit - I probably would have decided it was my fault somehow and accepted it. So Joey should be home soon right? My DH comes home today too - although quite late. Told me he had a nice walk on the beach this morning and said he would have been better had I been there. (nice)

Michelle - never thought of selling clothes on ebay - I can't tell you the stuff that I have that I've never worn - wow - like that idea. Okay - so there is a listing fee - does ebay take money from you after it is sold - like a % or something???

Laura - I just recently got pace weights (those magnets Michelle mentioned) - decided I would need those for STS - and was a gift my sister said I could have. (Our birthdays are a week apart - we just exchanged gifts with each other a little early.) I was just recently thinking that 5lbs is too far to go - need something for in between. I agree that weighted clothes is also another option there.

Here is hoping my appointment will go well - I doubt I'll be working out tonight either. This is killing me.

 

[janiejoey]

Gosh, you miss one day and there is so much going on. First things first, this morning I did Body Max--the whole thing: step, circuits, weights work, abs. I've been doing just the step and circuits and decided to kick it up a notch today. Jeesh! I forgot how fast Cathe goes through the weight work. I just went at my own speed so I didn't mess up on form and risk injury.
Janie: whew all that house cleaning--you've tired me out. Looking forward to hearing about Meso 3 once you and Joey get back to it again. Hope he had a good time.
Finally, where oh where has our Shadowpup gone?~michelle

Michelle, Good workout, you did a great job. Meso 3 is on my list, but I don't know if Joey is up to it or not. You see, he hasn't been exercising while he was away. We may have to do a rotation or two of weight loss first. That's OK, we'll get there.

Supper quick check in as I am late to go and visit my Aunts and Uncles up in Estes Park, squeezed in B&G this morning, hence running late...personals later!

Laura, Good workout, B&G is not easy. Have fun at your Aunts and Uncles.

Hey all -I honestly feel all old and broken down when I mention my back. It has totally sidelined me - there is simply no relief. It doesn't matter what I take or what I do - I'm in pain. Last evening I decided to take Laura's advice and just take it easy - not do anything. So I did nothing but lay on the floor with my legs up on the coffee table - my pups loved that I was down there - let me tell you. They were relentless. Gotta love those girls though. I thought perhaps I'd feel a little better - nope - that didn't work. Today I go to see a chiropractor - this was one option - others were the emergency room (this I was totally against), an orthopedic guy, a physical therapist, or the little Med station nearby. So I will go today - hopefully he will send me on my way pain free - yes, I know - but I can dream can't I?
Janie - sorry your asparagus didn't grow - wondering why it was so much work - isn't it just like planting anything else or was there a lot of it? I'm impressed you are getting a credit - I probably would have decided it was my fault somehow and accepted it. So Joey should be home soon right? My DH comes home today too - although quite late. Told me he had a nice walk on the beach this morning and said he would have been better had I been there. (nice)
Here is hoping my appointment will go well - I doubt I'll be working out tonight either. This is killing me.

Shoegal, Oh, I feel for you. I had a sore back a couple of years ago, and I tell ya, I went through what you are going through now. It will heal, and it will take time. At least several weeks. Be patient, and let your back heal before doing any exercises. Just watch what you eat and mend. So sorry you have to go through this, I know it must be disappointing. The asparagus was a lot of work, I had to dig 3 trenches 30 feet long and 12 inches deep. Then put the asparagus roots and spread them out. Then slowly put dirt over them while they were growing, but, mine never grew. At first it is a lot of work, but after you plant them, it is hardly any work at all. Just keep them weeded is all. Oh well. Joey should be home tonight, late. Everything is so nice and clean, and some things are moved in different areas, and have more space than before. It looks great. Here's to hoping your appt. goes well. Let us know, will ya? It's Ok Shoegal, to take the time to heal, you can always go back to exercising when you are more up to it. Take that time, and write letters, phone calls, slow walks (maybe)...just heal first completely.

Talk to you all later. Yes, where is everbody else? Get back here, we miss you!

Janie

 

[ironlady]

Hey all ya'll wonderful ladies! I hav emissed ya'll! I have made it through the first 2 discs of STS! Yay!

Alot has been going on, I will just paste in what my cousin has sent on about their baby...

Yes he was a surprise boy, the ultrasounds made us think he was a girl.

But he has a genetic disorder 13q- which resulted in semi-lobar Holoprosencephaly, Dandy-Walker syndrome, inperforate anus, ambiguous genitalia (why we thought he was a girl), colobomas (maybe can't see much), mainly deaf, and hypospadias. He was given a colostomy second day of life so he could poop.The prognosis is basically keep him comfortable while he is still here however long it may be but likely not too long (months to a few years).

Our plan is to get him eating on his own while still at Cooks, then bring him home and make him as happy as possible for as long as he can be. Right now he is progressing on eating without a feeding tube and we are optimistically thinking he can be home in about a week or so.

He is a little fighter that has already overcome insane odds to make it this far, and so far his main conditions aren't life threatening so who knows. I told Julie he needs to pick out lottery tickets because he has already accomplished 1 in a ten million odds or better.

So, just asking for your prayers for him and the family.... this is the first grandchild for my cousin and they are trying to be positive but, I know their hearts are breaking. They tried for so long to get pregnant! His name is Keith Charles Nash. Born 5/28/09. So the stress just keeps coming! ha!

Will check back in with you later!
Sherry

 

[MDolfiniReed]

Happy Thursday everyone. After much internal debate between doing a circuit workout or a straight weight workout today, I went with SuperSets. I haven't done SuperSets in a long time. Pulled out my notebook to check my weight amounts and decided to go up on just about everything. That was nice. I have a hard time doing the preacher curls. I follow the Cede option and just do barbell bicep curls standing up. Whenever I try to do preacher curls, I feel like I'm going to be ill. Something about leaning against the ball for those things that my body just does not like.

Shoegal: speaking of bodies, I hope your chiropracter can work miracles but I don't know. It sounds like you need a muscle relaxer and a few days of rest. When I pulled the muscles in my lower back last summer, I couldn't move. We were on the boat and I managed to haul my butt into the salon and there I was on all fours leaning over the couch for 3 hours. Joe went to the local pharmacy and got an icebag, heating pad, and Aleve. We iced for the first day and then switched to the heating pad. I've got to tell you the only thing that got me to move that first day was having to go the bathroom. It's funny to think about now, but I was "ye old bent over one" for 3 days and walking was a real challenge. Ripken just didn't understand why I was home and NOT walking him. Doing back exercises really helped once I was able to move again. Many were just basic yoga moves.

Also, ebay does take a percent of the sales price. How much varies by the amount. S&H charges do not count in the calculation.

Ironlady: how sad for your cousin and family. Hope you are continuing to exercise through these challenges.

Janie: so much work for an asparagus garden. What a shame it didn't do well. My parents planted one this year and I think it is doing pretty good (they are in Virginia). Are you going to wear something slinky to welcome Joey home?

Hope everyone has a great day.
~michelle

 

[Shoegal]

check in Thursday

Hey everybody -

Went to the Chiropractor yesterday - ran me through some tests - took some x-rays - and will go back today to see what he says. He did do some adjustments but I have to tell you - I was not impressed. Frankly, I was all interested in getting a soothing, relaxing, pain relieving massage - what I got was what sounded as if he were stapling me but felt like a small tap along the spine. Without getting into to it too much he said it looked like my nerve is irritated and the muscles there are swollen and inflamed. Told me to put ice on it, not to apply heat (no hot baths either ) and to try not to sit and no exercise . Told my DH about it - (who is home by the way ) and he highly recommended his guy - said he really believed that it would be more beneficial than who I went with. He made an appointment for me - and I headed on down there today happily anticipating the same relaxing, pain relieving, lengthy massage and got more of the same little taps. I can't believe this is going to work. What I really liked about this route - was there were no strong medications involved - and it sounded as if I would be "fixing" the problem - I realize I'm going to have to give this more time but I'm a little disillusioned. No exercise again from the 2nd guy too.

So Janie - Joey should be home? Hope you are enjoying his homecoming. Yes - those asparagus sounded like too much work - sorry they didn't come up. What a shame!!! Everyone seems to have had back pain in the past - so I'm glad I'm not alone and they know how I feel. Seems as if Michelle and Laura have had problems in the past. I am going to do whatever I can to protect mine from now on.

Michelle - Push/Pull is a good one - I do like it. I have never been one to write my weights in a notebook - but I do see how that is a good idea now. Some of my biggest problems stem from not knowing what to pick up. Sometimes Cathe will say something like - we are going to move on to chest - but doesn't say which chest exercise or what weight she is using - so I stand there wondering what to pick up. I think it is time to use the notebook.

Laura - hope you had a good time with your Aunt & Uncle. Do they live close by?

Ironlady - l'd like to hear what you think of the 1st 2 discs. I'm very sorry to hear about your cousin's son. He sounds like he is a figher and of course a gift from God. God doesn't put them down here for no good reason - so even if it is short term - Keith is still a blessing. He is in my prayers.

Gotta dash - see you all later

 

[ladubose]

Hi Everyone,
Just finished dinner and waiting for a client to show up for a private. I taught class this morning at The Studio Darshan and when I came home the girls wanted to hike. We went for a long 3 1/2 mile hike and it took us 2 hours. I am so glad they are old enough to hike and enjoy it! The wild flowers are beautiful. I will try & post some pictures later to share with you guys.

Kick, Punch & Crunch was on the schedule but it didn't get done due to the hike. Which I am actually ok with, although I might try to squeeze it in tomorrow morning, maybe...

Janie: Is Joey home? How nice for him to come home to you and such a clean house! Lucky guy! Enjoy your reunion!

Shoegal: So sorry about your back. It is no fun! But it is important to rest and let those muscle relax and release. I hope you have a good time with your DH despite your pain, hopefully he will give you that relaxing message you have been wanting.

Ironlady: nice to hear from you again but so sorry about your cousins' boy. Sometimes I think it is a miracle that any child turns out ok it seems like so many things out there to go wrong...I know that your family is grieving the loss of a healthy baby but Shoegal is right there will be many unknown blessings for your family through this little guy! Glad to hear you are still exercising, what do you think of STS?

Michelle: I am trying to remember SuperSets it is one of my new DVD's and I think I only did it once. I think it was good, but not as good as the GS. You are on a roll with your workouts girl! Keep it up!

HI FIVE to everyone else!!

 

[janiejoey]

Hey all ya'll wonderful ladies! I hav emissed ya'll! I have made it through the first 2 discs of STS! Yay!
Alot has been going on, I will just paste in what my cousin has sent on about their baby...
Yes he was a surprise boy, the ultrasounds made us think he was a girl.
But he has a genetic disorder 13q- which resulted in semi-lobar Holoprosencephaly, Dandy-Walker syndrome, inperforate anus, ambiguous genitalia (why we thought he was a girl), colobomas (maybe can't see much), mainly deaf, and hypospadias. He was given a colostomy second day of life so he could poop.The prognosis is basically keep him comfortable while he is still here however long it may be but likely not too long (months to a few years).
Our plan is to get him eating on his own while still at Cooks, then bring him home and make him as happy as possible for as long as he can be. Right now he is progressing on eating without a feeding tube and we are optimistically thinking he can be home in about a week or so.
He is a little fighter that has already overcome insane odds to make it this far, and so far his main conditions aren't life threatening so who knows. I told Julie he needs to pick out lottery tickets because he has already accomplished 1 in a ten million odds or better.
So, just asking for your prayers for him and the family.... this is the first grandchild for my cousin and they are trying to be positive but, I know their hearts are breaking. They tried for so long to get pregnant! His name is Keith Charles Nash. Born 5/28/09. So the stress just keeps coming! ha!
Will check back in with you later!Sherry

Sherry, I'm crying my eyes out here. This must be so sad for all of you. Thank you for sharing your story, it reminds me of our little Adrian with his problems, except he has more time on this earth. But then again your little one is such a fighter he may also have lots more time on this earth. I'm so sorry, just babbling now. Stress shows up in so many different ways, try to calm yourself, meditate, yoga...Keep in touch OK.

Janie

 

[janiejoey]

Happy Thursday everyone. After much internal debate between doing a circuit workout or a straight weight workout today, I went with SuperSets. I haven't done SuperSets in a long time. Pulled out my notebook to check my weight amounts and decided to go up on just about everything. That was nice. I have a hard time doing the preacher curls. I follow the Cede option and just do barbell bicep curls standing up. Whenever I try to do preacher curls, I feel like I'm going to be ill. Something about leaning against the ball for those things that my body just does not like.
Also, ebay does take a percent of the sales price. How much varies by the amount. S&H charges do not count in the calculation.
Janie: so much work for an asparagus garden. What a shame it didn't do well. My parents planted one this year and I think it is doing pretty good (they are in Virginia). Are you going to wear something slinky to welcome Joey home?
Hope everyone has a great day.~michelle

Michelle, I know what you mean about getting ill with your body over the ball doing preacher curls. It has happen to me and I try to ignore it. It goes away when I stop leaning into the ball or when the exercise is over. I gave Joey a great big kiss. I missed him soooooooooooo much.

Hey everybody -
Went to the Chiropractor yesterday - ran me through some tests - took some x-rays - and will go back today to see what he says. He did do some adjustments but I have to tell you - I was not impressed. Frankly, I was all interested in getting a soothing, relaxing, pain relieving massage - what I got was what sounded as if he were stapling me but felt like a small tap along the spine. Without getting into to it too much he said it looked like my nerve is irritated and the muscles there are swollen and inflamed. Told me to put ice on it, not to apply heat (no hot baths either ) and to try not to sit and no exercise . Told my DH about it - (who is home by the way ) and he highly recommended his guy - said he really believed that it would be more beneficial than who I went with. He made an appointment for me - and I headed on down there today happily anticipating the same relaxing, pain relieving, lengthy massage and got more of the same little taps. I can't believe this is going to work. What I really liked about this route - was there were no strong medications involved - and it sounded as if I would be "fixing" the problem - I realize I'm going to have to give this more time but I'm a little disillusioned. No exercise again from the 2nd guy too.
So Janie - Joey should be home? Hope you are enjoying his homecoming. Yes - those asparagus sounded like too much work - sorry they didn't come up. What a shame!!! Everyone seems to have had back pain in the past - so I'm glad I'm not alone and they know how I feel. Seems as if Michelle and Laura have had problems in the past. I am going to do whatever I can to protect mine from now on.Gotta dash - see you all later

Shoegal, I don't envy you with that horrible feeling pain in the back. Cold packs make you so cold. But if it does the trick, then do it. When you heal you can exercise. It will be sooner than you think. I'm so sorry you have to go through this. Love that Joey is home. It is a shame that the asparagus didn't come up. Darn it! Good to hear that you will be protecting your back from now on.

Hi Everyone,
Just finished dinner and waiting for a client to show up for a private. I taught class this morning at The Studio Darshan and when I came home the girls wanted to hike. We went for a long 3 1/2 mile hike and it took us 2 hours. I am so glad they are old enough to hike and enjoy it! The wild flowers are beautiful. I will try & post some pictures later to share with you guys.
Kick, Punch & Crunch was on the schedule but it didn't get done due to the hike. Which I am actually ok with, although I might try to squeeze it in tomorrow morning, maybe...
Janie: Is Joey home? How nice for him to come home to you and such a clean house! Lucky guy! Enjoy your reunion!
HI FIVE to everyone else!!

Laura, Great job on the class and hiking with the girls. Isn't it wonderful to hike like that? For me I'm oblivious with time in nature. Just love nature hikes. Would like to see those beautiful flowers. Joey is home and I have to tell you, I missed him so very much. Yeah!

Take care everyone and have a great evening,

Janie

 

[MDolfiniReed]

Had a blast this morning--Step Blast, that is. I needed to change things up but I didn't want to do something totally new, so I did Step Blast. I'm sure it has been at least 2 months since I've done this routine and today was like a memory refresher during a sweat bath. I really like this step workout though because it is mentally challenging--so much going on in the choreography. And those blasts at the end, phew!

Shoegal: I'm not a fan of chiropracters. I know some folks swear by them but my Joseph went to one a few years ago and he was disappointed. Ice on the back for 24 hours plus take Aleve was the first thing I did last year when I hurt my back. And after that initial shock of icepack on back, I think you will find that it feels pretty good. Whatever you have done, you are going to have to give yourself a few days of rest. I went 2 weeks without doing Cathe when I hurt my back last year and then I did Basic Step and Abs every other day for a week. It was boring but I was just happy to be doing something at that point. I know it's going to bug you to know end not to be able to exercise for a while, but otherwise I think you risk setting yourself back even further. It's a real bummer, that's for sure.

Laura: it's nice that you spend so much time outside with your girls. I think that sharing the simple things in life, like taking a hike and appreciating nature, are things they will remember forever. KPC is on my preview list. Not sure if I will get that done this weekend or not. But soon, soon.

Janie: I feel better knowing that someone else gets that yicky feeling in their tummy when they do preacher curls. I figure I'm not doing something correctly. But you are right, the feeling goes away pretty quickly once I'm not doing the preacher curl.

Oh, I almost forgot: I did one chin-up this morning. I would qualify it as boardering on an almost good, solid chin-up.

Hope everyone has a great day.
~michelle

 

[ladubose]

Hi everyone! Today is my 11th Anniversary! The girls are going to a sleep over which means some nice alone time for us this evening. We are really tight on money right now so we are just going to stay home together, which will actually be very nice.

I uploaded some pics from our hike yesterday if you are interested check them out. It is so beautiful here right now, the weather is perfect, although I could take a little more heat.

I have to go to Boulder to meet with the girls teacher for a end of the year conference, but I hope to squeeze in a workout when I get back, maybe Kick, Punch, and Crunch or GS C&T.

Michelle: I think Step Blast is one of my favorite step routines and I find it very challenging! You are right about the sweat fest! I agree with you about the simple things with the girls, I am so glad they are old enough now to really hike and seem to enjoy it. Yesterday it was their idea and they chose where we went.

Janey: Glad you enjoyed your reunion! Should I get dressed up tonight even if we are staying home? Any suggestions for dinner?

Shoegal: so how's the back? Once it is better I really recommend you try some pilates. I recommend {hate to recommend more DVD's but this is a medical emergency here!! LOL} Stott Pilates Dvd's. Stott pilates is a real pilates school and there videos are thorough and careful. I don't recommend any others unless you have a complete and comprehensive understanding of the Pilates Principles. I think they have a few back care specific DVD's. The concept of scooping and hollowing the abdominal is key to protecting the lower lumbars.

Hi To Ironlady, Shadowpup. Laura UK and anybody else out there lurking!!

 

[janiejoey]

Had a blast this morning--Step Blast, that is. I needed to change things up but I didn't want to do something totally new, so I did Step Blast. I'm sure it has been at least 2 months since I've done this routine and today was like a memory refresher during a sweat bath. I really like this step workout though because it is mentally challenging--so much going on in the choreography. And those blasts at the end, phew!
Janie: I feel better knowing that someone else gets that yicky feeling in their tummy when they do preacher curls. I figure I'm not doing something correctly. But you are right, the feeling goes away pretty quickly once I'm not doing the preacher curl.
Oh, I almost forgot: I did one chin-up this morning. I would qualify it as boardering on an almost good, solid chin-up.
Hope everyone has a great day.~michelle

Michelle, I did Step Blast yesterday and I took my little Molly with me. First we went to Walmart to purchase a new harness. She looks so cute in it. Then we went across the street from a high school, where there is a wooded area for runners and joggers. We spent a good 1/2 hour out there. Poor thing is getting old. But she did good. Step Blast is a sweat bath, my oh my! A chin-up? Good for you! Very proud of you. It is not easy.

Hi everyone! Today is my 11th Anniversary! The girls are going to a sleep over which means some nice alone time for us this evening. We are really tight on money right now so we are just going to stay home together, which will actually be very nice.
I uploaded some pics from our hike yesterday if you are interested check them out. It is so beautiful here right now, the weather is perfect, although I could take a little more heat.
I have to go to Boulder to meet with the girls teacher for a end of the year conference, but I hope to squeeze in a workout when I get back, maybe Kick, Punch, and Crunch or GS C&T.
Janey: Glad you enjoyed your reunion! Should I get dressed up tonight even if we are staying home? Any suggestions for dinner?
Hi To Ironlady, Shadowpup. Laura UK and anybody else out there lurking!

Laura, Happy Anniversary! Staying home is best anyway. No driving, no tips...and it can be sooooooo romantic. After this post I'll check out your pics. Keep um coming, they are great to look at. Enjoy the conference in Boulder. I bet the girls are doing just fine. Yes, dress up and treat it like a date. Dinner? Anything the two of you love to eat. Let us know how your date went OK? I saw the pictures today Sat. and they are fantastic! Those girls are beautiful. And Maggy, what can I say, she's also gorgeous.

Today Joey and I did Power Hour. Oh My! It wasn't pretty, but we did finish. Tomorrow for me is Yoga.

Janie

 

[Shadowpup]

The worst is over!

Hi all,

My review is over! And it was a tremendous success! There's a huge weight beginning to slide off of my shoulders now that we've successfully negotiated that. Practically every senior person at our organization stopped by at one time or another. I lost three pounds last week, from the energy of keeping everything on track and looking smooth. Now it's time to get back to normal (busy-normal, but not insanely-busy-normal). I kept up with my workouts throughout, but consciously dropped them down a notch about two weeks ago to maintenance level. It paid off; despite four days of 14 hours of intensity (we'd start at 7:30am and end about 9:30pm most days), and being the one most on the hook for a positive result, I was the least exhausted of the participants when all was said and done

Thanks, everyone, who sent a greeting on this thread, and asked where I was. It was really nice to see those hellos and "where is Shadowpup" notes! You've all made me smile

It looks as though all of you have been very busy, and doing an outstanding job handling a huge number of challenges! There's time for some quick personals before I get back on my exercise wagon and go for a walk

Ironlady - Sherry - I am so sorry to hear out the challenges the newest little guy in your family faces. As you say, he's come out on top in one and a million odds, though, so who knows? My best wishes and most positive thoughts are headed in your direction.

Shoegal, chiropractic alone never did it for me. What I found when I had a severe episode with muscle spasms/swelling in my back several years ago was that combining chiropractic, a kind of electrical therapy, and then MASSAGE was the key. Of all of them, the massage was the most important. It took three times a week for about a month of each of those, in a two hour session, to put me right ... but before that, I'd been doing the chiropractic for three times a week with very little improvement. The massage and the electrical therapy did far more for me (but they weren't offered alone, sigh).

Laura, happy 11th anniversary!!! I'm looking forward to hunting up those pictures. And you're at a conference in Boulder ... ? I think I'm supposed to be in Colorado somewhere for two days in July, not sure yet. Probably Denver. It is really neat the way you've integrated exercise in with your family lifestyle. When so much of the country is worried about obese children, YOURS are asking to go on hikes! You've done such a terrific job with them, hope you feel very proud.

Michelle, congratulations on that chin up!!! Isn't it great when you reallize you really will get all the way up, and then all the way down, with control??? It still makes me feel great when I do them. Step Blast ... hmmm, I think I have some of that one on a mixer. How do you rate that compared to IMAX2? The harder choreography ones give me fits; guess that means 'opportunity to practice', eh? Re the preacher curls, I don't like any of the exercises that put pressure on my midsection while I'm doing strength training. I do them on the ball but I arrange myself so that my stomach isn't being smooshed. Icky feeling.

Janie, it's always so uplifting to read your posts. Molly sounds awfully cute! Nice for you to have your Joey back, too. And Power Hour - congratulations to you both on that one! It is not easy, that's for sure. How are you enjoying the post-STS workouts? Does it seem easier/harder/about the same to do these old favorites? And you've had a reunion, and something going on with asparagus ... my, what alot there is to read

Well, all, I'm going to see about picking up all the things I've let slide during these last two months. This has been the most intense period I've had in decades, and it is nice that it is winding up. The biggest lesson for me has been - it's possible to do far more when the exercise, nutrition, and sleep remain priorities. I let so much slide, but not that (though sometimes sleep suffered to get the workout in). I never could have handled this level of intensity 20 years ago, and honestly - isn't it a neat feeling that someone in her forties can say that?

Have a wonderful weekend - and I look forward to reading more about what you've all been doing. It is sooo nice to be back; I missed our group!

 

[MDolfiniReed]

Welcome back Shadowpup and congratulations on getting through your review with flying colors. You seem to be as dedicated to your work as you are to taking care of yourself. Your employer is very lucky.

Today, I did Kick Max. I'm seeing little improvements every week with my kick box form. I still like the leg drills the best. As ya'll know kick boxing is not one of my natural exercise talents. Threw in a set of 16 toe push-ups just for fun. Ha!

It's been kind of yucky here in Maryland so far this Saturday. It has been raining off and on for the past couple of hours although the sky is looking like it might be wanting to clear up. We'll see. The result is that there are not many folks here at the marina today. Last night was incredibly beautiful--so quiet. No one here. On our dock, there is only one other slip holder here and the next dock over, none of the slipholders are there. Crazy.

Laura: hope you and DH had a great evening last night. I think that the best celebrations are usually the ones where you spend time with each other rather than money. Congratulations--11 years! My DH and I have our anniversary coming up in July. Not sure of the date--neither is he--somewhere around the 15th. Also not sure if it will be 16 years or 17 years married this year. What a pair!

Janie: what breed is your little Molly? Sometimes I think it would be nice to have a smaller dog, but I think I'm just a large breed person at heart.

What's everyone up to this weekend? Anything fun?
Shoegal: how's the back?
~michelle

 

[janiejoey]

Hi all,My review is over! And it was a tremendous success! There's a huge weight beginning to slide off of my shoulders now that we've successfully negotiated that. Practically every senior person at our organization stopped by at one time or another. I lost three pounds last week, from the energy of keeping everything on track and looking smooth. Now it's time to get back to normal (busy-normal, but not insanely-busy-normal). I kept up with my workouts throughout, but consciously dropped them down a notch about two weeks ago to maintenance level. It paid off; despite four days of 14 hours of intensity (we'd start at 7:30am and end about 9:30pm most days), and being the one most on the hook for a positive result, I was the least exhausted of the participants when all was said and done
Thanks, everyone, who sent a greeting on this thread, and asked where I was. It was really nice to see those hellos and "where is Shadowpup" notes! You've all made me smile
It looks as though all of you have been very busy, and doing an outstanding job handling a huge number of challenges! There's time for some quick personals before I get back on my exercise wagon and go for a walk
Janie, it's always so uplifting to read your posts. Molly sounds awfully cute! Nice for you to have your Joey back, too. And Power Hour - congratulations to you both on that one! It is not easy, that's for sure. How are you enjoying the post-STS workouts? Does it seem easier/harder/about the same to do these old favorites? And you've had a reunion, and something going on with asparagus ... my, what alot there is to read
Well, all, I'm going to see about picking up all the things I've let slide during these last two months. This has been the most intense period I've had in decades, and it is nice that it is winding up. The biggest lesson for me has been - it's possible to do far more when the exercise, nutrition, and sleep remain priorities. I let so much slide, but not that (though sometimes sleep suffered to get the workout in). I never could have handled this level of intensity 20 years ago, and honestly - isn't it a neat feeling that someone in her forties can say that?
Have a wonderful weekend - and I look forward to reading more about what you've all been doing. It is sooo nice to be back; I missed our group

Shadowpup, So glad your review was a success. One down on the list to take off your shoulders. Congratulations for losing 3 pounds. Yeah! I like seeing you manipulate your exercise routine to fit you personally, that's a great idea. We've missed you and your spunk and wonderful ideas and stories. You just can't leave like that again. You are so needed here. Since Joey was traveling for a month, we both slid on our exercises. So, wanted to catch up a bit before we plunge into Meso 3. We are doing a 4 week calorie burning rotation first and then back into Meso 3. I was not able to keep up with Cathe on Power Hour ever, but we kept up with her fairly good this time. I think we are much stronger when we do the older workouts, so far because of STS series. Keep the priorties in order.

Today, I did Kick Max. I'm seeing little improvements every week with my kick box form. I still like the leg drills the best. As ya'll know kick boxing is not one of my natural exercise talents. Threw in a set of 16 toe push-ups just for fun. Ha!
It's been kind of yucky here in Maryland so far this Saturday. It has been raining off and on for the past couple of hours although the sky is looking like it might be wanting to clear up. We'll see. The result is that there are not many folks here at the marina today. Last night was incredibly beautiful--so quiet. No one here. On our dock, there is only one other slip holder here and the next dock over, none of the slipholders are there. Crazy.
Janie: what breed is your little Molly? Sometimes I think it would be nice to have a smaller dog, but I think I'm just a large breed person at heart.
What's everyone up to this weekend? Anything fun? ~michelle

Michelle, I love seeing improvements too, congratulations on your kick box form. You seem to have the same kind of weather we are here in the Pac. NW. You seem to be enjoying your boat so much. Good for you. Molly is part chihuahua and part Yorky. She's a kind gentle doll baby. I've had dogs all my life (I'm 58) and this little one is the best I've ever had. She weighs 12 pounds maybe. She is sick though and we're trying hard to make her feel better. She has kidney problems. Older dogs and cats get that a lot. Molly is 11 years old and I hope to have her for another couple of years. We'll see. I'm making her eats during the day. Found a great recipe for Kidney problems from a Vet book, and asked my vet if Molly could go on that. He said yes. She didn't like and wouldn't eat the prescription diet dog food, so I had to do something. Not doing too much this weekend, except watch what I eat and do my exercises.

Have a great weekend everyone,

Janie

 

[ladubose]

Howdy Ladies! Well last night my husband surprised me and took me out to the place where we were married for dinner. It was a lovely evening and I wore a sexy red dress!

Been super busy lately, have people coming for dinner and then we are all going to a Midnight Summer's Dream costume party. I am a Fairy. The weather is frightful, cold and rainy, which is a bummer. Still it should be fun.

I did GS Chest & Triceps. I didn't get a workout in yesterday so I am slipping behind on my rotation, oh well, doing what I can when I can.

Welcome back Shadowpup: nice to hear from you, & great job on those 3 lbs as well as the review!

Janey: I think Power hour sounds like a great workout. Seems to be a favorite on the forums even if it is older. Your doggie sounds so cute! I hope she feels better.

Michelle: Great job on the chin up I am still hanging on my bar, maybe one day. Kick Max is on my rotation next week!

 

[ironlady]

Hello all,

Thanks for your prayers for Keith. I know he is a fighter and he is here for a reason. But, it does bring up some bad memories, both of my brothers died as infants. We will enjoy him while he is here whether it is for a few months, a few years, or a long long life!

Anyway, finished disc 3 today! Only slight soreness right now, I know it will catch up to me though! I did not use weight for the slide leg work since it is new to me and I did not want to hurt myself!!!! Still those are killer without weight!

I have to say I am loving this series! I will have to do Cathes June rotation when I finish just because it incorporates STS in a different way! I got behind on the rotation so I will have to do cardio tomorrow!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and Happy Fathers Day to all your Dad's! Hope you get to spend some time with them!!

ttyl, Sherry

 

[janiejoey]

Howdy Ladies! Well last night my husband surprised me and took me out to the place where we were married for dinner. It was a lovely evening and I wore a sexy red dress!
Been super busy lately, have people coming for dinner and then we are all going to a Midnight Summer's Dream costume party. I am a Fairy. The weather is frightful, cold and rainy, which is a bummer. Still it should be fun.
I did GS Chest & Triceps. I didn't get a workout in yesterday so I am slipping behind on my rotation, oh well, doing what I can when I can.
Janey: I think Power hour sounds like a great workout. Seems to be a favorite on the forums even if it is older. Your doggie sounds so cute! I hope she feels better.

Laura, Awe, your husband was so sweet to take you out where you were married. How thoughtful is that? I bet you looked lovely in the dress! A costume party in June? How fun! Great job on your workout, have to love the GS series, they are great. Life comes first before anything, so it's OK to miss a workout every now and then. It's suppose to work that way. I hope Molly feels better too, thanks for the compassion.

Hello all,
Thanks for your prayers for Keith. I know he is a fighter and he is here for a reason. But, it does bring up some bad memories, both of my brothers died as infants. We will enjoy him while he is here whether it is for a few months, a few years, or a long long life!
Anyway, finished disc 3 today! Only slight soreness right now, I know it will catch up to me though! I did not use weight for the slide leg work since it is new to me and I did not want to hurt myself!!!! Still those are killer without weight!
I have to say I am loving this series! I will have to do Cathes June rotation when I finish just because it incorporates STS in a different way! I got behind on the rotation so I will have to do cardio tomorrow!
Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and Happy Fathers Day to all your Dad's! Hope you get to spend some time with them!!
ttyl, Sherry

Ironlady, Oh my, would it be so awful of me to ask what is wrong with Keith? What a horrible experience you went through with two of your brothers. You poor sweetheart! I'm hugging you right now to help you know that I sympathize with you. Great job on Disc 3. Your DOM's probably will catch up. A little stretching works wonders. Great workout! Yes, the June rotation incorporating STS sounds like one I'd like to do too.

Joey and I will celebrate Father's Day at our favorite resturaunt. May not have time for a workout today.

Have a great day everyone,

Janie