My husband and I went to Lenox mall here in Atlanta yesterday to pick up some new jeans for me. I don't have any jeans that fit at the moment...they are all SO TIGHT!
Since this thyroid nonsense has begun I have gained 22 pounds. I have to take personal responsibility for some of it, but I do workout and I eat pretty well. I hope the doctor gets this figured out some time within the next few months. I will be adjusting the way I eat for a few months to see if that helps any. I just feel gross about the way I look. I really do hate it. I feel sloppy about my clothes not fitting me correctly, especially my uniforms.
My husband is so loving, encouraging, and supportive. He is so perfect for me. I love him dearly. He does get tired of hearing me complain about it though but sometimes I just can't help it. I let all of this stuff get to me.
After church today I changed my clothes and put on my brown belt (which I haven't worn in a few weeks). I sadly realized that I had to loosen the belt one more hole ...a depressing realization. I only have one hole left on the belt before the belt will be too small for me. What's really sad is seeing that this is the third time I have had to loosen the belt...the other holes are stretched out from use.
The LORD gives us experiences all the time to teach us the trust Him. It's in these moments that he really teaches us. I am learning a lot about what I value at the moment, and while I am struggling with all of this my trust and my hope is in Him and He is all that I need.
I am reading a book called Ruthless Trust by Brennan Manning. The book is challenging because it asks if we really trust in God. All Christians should respond with a resounding, "yes!," but the truth is many of us really don't trust in God. We still worry. We are still depressed and downcast.
The book proposes that hope + faith = trust. I am still trying to wrap my mind around it all but I do know that I want to trust. I will get through this hypothyroid thing. It's a common enough disease and it could be a lot worse. I need to focus on what matters, as usual.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Why were shepherds chosen?
I am working on a sermon for Advent this week and have been assigned the passage in Luke 2 where the angel tells the shepherds that Jesus is born and the shepherds leave to go find Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus.
I did a little research and am a bit perplexed about what I have learned about shepherds. The symbolism of shepherds all throughout the Bible is quite rampant, mostly in thinking about Jesus as the 'Good Shepherd', Psalm 23 of course, and on it goes.
But there were many other shepherds in the Bible. I think of Abel in Genesis 4; Lot and Abram when they separated (they had flocks in Gen 13), and Rachel as a shepherdess when Jacob first sees her (Gen 29). Joseph's brothers were shepherds, which were detestable to the Egyptians (Gen 46), and then of course there is Moses tending to Jethro's sheep when an angel of the LORD speaks to him in the burning bush (Ex 2 and 3). David, a shepherd boy, was chosen as king in 1 Samuel.
Shepherds play an important role in the Bible! Understanding that the common occupation of the day was shepherding and that shepherds were outcasts, were dirty, weren't very honest often times (grazing on other people's land), etc it makes sense that God would choose them to be the first to tell about Jesus being born, right? Luke thinks so and records it in his gospel. Matthew disagrees slightly and records that the Magi came and saw Jesus first.
It is complex to me that God would choose the common, dirty folk to discover and deliver the greatest message ever. The message of hope and of love. He chose ragamuffins and STILL does. The shepherds were doing their work and were receptive to the message. It's so simple and yet so profound.
I did a little research and am a bit perplexed about what I have learned about shepherds. The symbolism of shepherds all throughout the Bible is quite rampant, mostly in thinking about Jesus as the 'Good Shepherd', Psalm 23 of course, and on it goes.
But there were many other shepherds in the Bible. I think of Abel in Genesis 4; Lot and Abram when they separated (they had flocks in Gen 13), and Rachel as a shepherdess when Jacob first sees her (Gen 29). Joseph's brothers were shepherds, which were detestable to the Egyptians (Gen 46), and then of course there is Moses tending to Jethro's sheep when an angel of the LORD speaks to him in the burning bush (Ex 2 and 3). David, a shepherd boy, was chosen as king in 1 Samuel.
Shepherds play an important role in the Bible! Understanding that the common occupation of the day was shepherding and that shepherds were outcasts, were dirty, weren't very honest often times (grazing on other people's land), etc it makes sense that God would choose them to be the first to tell about Jesus being born, right? Luke thinks so and records it in his gospel. Matthew disagrees slightly and records that the Magi came and saw Jesus first.
It is complex to me that God would choose the common, dirty folk to discover and deliver the greatest message ever. The message of hope and of love. He chose ragamuffins and STILL does. The shepherds were doing their work and were receptive to the message. It's so simple and yet so profound.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Biblical Hebrew
I miss studying it. I would feel so inspired after struggling to read and understand the Hebrew. It is a really spiritual experience to read the Bible in its original languages. The beauty of it really encourages me in my faith.
I am looking for someone/somewhere to read Hebrew with here in Atlanta...
I am looking for someone/somewhere to read Hebrew with here in Atlanta...
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Blood work results...
Almost two months ago now I found out that I have a thyroid issue, hypothyroidism. I have been consistently gaining weight, have been suffering from fatigue and a myriad of other smaller issues.
I went to see the doctor for a routine physical and the blood results came back that I have hypothyroidism.
Now I have to take a little pill in the morning for the rest of my life.
I am still learning about this medical issue and have read material about it, but I am still finding some of it to be confusing. Research contradicts itself with other research (what to eat, what helps hypothyroidism, etc).
I have been exercising and eating healthy yet I am still gaining weight. This past weekend I came to the realization that I have to buy bigger jeans.
It's all a bit depressing, but I am doing what I am supposed to do. I exercise, take my medicine, and eat well. What else can I do?
I go to see the doctor every three weeks to have my blood tested. This is all a process.
When I feel miserable I have to be reminded to be thankful for my overall good health, that it could be worse, and that I have a caring, supportive husband.
As with everything I ask the LORD to teach me in all of this. Recently he has been teaching my about my vanity--it's all meaningless.
Thank you, LORD for humbling me and teaching me. But why does society place such a value on appearance? I have been sensitive to this topic lately and am growing spiritually as a result.
I went to see the doctor for a routine physical and the blood results came back that I have hypothyroidism.
Now I have to take a little pill in the morning for the rest of my life.
I am still learning about this medical issue and have read material about it, but I am still finding some of it to be confusing. Research contradicts itself with other research (what to eat, what helps hypothyroidism, etc).
I have been exercising and eating healthy yet I am still gaining weight. This past weekend I came to the realization that I have to buy bigger jeans.
It's all a bit depressing, but I am doing what I am supposed to do. I exercise, take my medicine, and eat well. What else can I do?
I go to see the doctor every three weeks to have my blood tested. This is all a process.
When I feel miserable I have to be reminded to be thankful for my overall good health, that it could be worse, and that I have a caring, supportive husband.
As with everything I ask the LORD to teach me in all of this. Recently he has been teaching my about my vanity--it's all meaningless.
Thank you, LORD for humbling me and teaching me. But why does society place such a value on appearance? I have been sensitive to this topic lately and am growing spiritually as a result.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Homeless update
This is for all two of my fans who read this.
I have diligently been working with those who I need to work with to take care of my homeless friend. I have gathered a lot of information about his situation.
He suffers from schizophrenia. I was inaccurate about how long he's been on the streets--38 years--not the 30 like I originally gathered.
His designated payee collects his disability and has been since he was put on the street back in June. He was at a personal care home and they kicked him out.
I called several places and visited several agencies downtown to see what can be done. The problem is that there is not enough resources for homeless people in the city. I understand that some people have the capacity to not be homeless and are on the streets as a result of their own doing, but not everyone.
So who looks after them? Who takes care of them?
No one. And worse yet, no one cares.
John is one person. He is in a shelter and will be transitioning (hopefully) over to a longer term program within the same facility but this is only because I am quite familiar with the agency.
What about everyone else?
Someone told me today that my "save-the-world-itis" will eventually wear off, after all, I am still young.
I want to care. How can we as a society, as Christians, be so dull to the pain that is around us?
At any rate, John is safely inside tonight as the rain continues to pour out of the sky. Thank you, LORD for what you are teaching me in all of this.
I have diligently been working with those who I need to work with to take care of my homeless friend. I have gathered a lot of information about his situation.
He suffers from schizophrenia. I was inaccurate about how long he's been on the streets--38 years--not the 30 like I originally gathered.
His designated payee collects his disability and has been since he was put on the street back in June. He was at a personal care home and they kicked him out.
I called several places and visited several agencies downtown to see what can be done. The problem is that there is not enough resources for homeless people in the city. I understand that some people have the capacity to not be homeless and are on the streets as a result of their own doing, but not everyone.
So who looks after them? Who takes care of them?
No one. And worse yet, no one cares.
John is one person. He is in a shelter and will be transitioning (hopefully) over to a longer term program within the same facility but this is only because I am quite familiar with the agency.
What about everyone else?
Someone told me today that my "save-the-world-itis" will eventually wear off, after all, I am still young.
I want to care. How can we as a society, as Christians, be so dull to the pain that is around us?
At any rate, John is safely inside tonight as the rain continues to pour out of the sky. Thank you, LORD for what you are teaching me in all of this.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Mike completes the OBX marathon!
My husband and I spent a lot of time in the car on Saturday to make it all the way out to the Outerbanks of North Carolina to see my brother Michael run his fifth marathon.
His running all began a few years ago when I asked him to sign up for the Broad Street 10 mile run in Philadelphia (where we lived at the time) with me. He did. It was a struggle for a weight lifter, but he did it. And then a half marathon. And then a marathon, and then another marathon, etc.
This was the fourth one he ran this year. He is absolutely crazy.
He saw people fall over and collapse around him and kept going (it was surprisingly hot yesterday). We saw one guy hop, literally, across the finish line as he had a bad sprain in his right ankle. We saw a lot of mother-daughter, father-son teams running together. We saw two young ladies screaming in pain as they held hands and sprinted across the finish line. It was inspiring.
Mike thought he had something in his shoe early in the race so he pulled over to take of his shoe only to put it back on and stop again about a mile later because whatever was in there must have been in his sock and not his shoe.
A mile after that he was in the med tent because there wasn't a little rock in his shoe, it was his foot--a bone out of whack--no skin there to cover it. He had his foot wrapped and then went on the finish the race in less than five hours.
Not bad for a 40 year old.
We were waiting at the finish line and I got to run next to him for the last stretch of the race. It was so exciting to see him come running down the street right before the finish line. I was so excited I jumped into the street and started screaming, "Mike! Mike!" and he looked at me and gave me a big smile. All this after running 26 miles, most of that with an injured foot.
I love my brother. I am so proud of him.
His response about the marathon: "running is a humbling activity"
His running all began a few years ago when I asked him to sign up for the Broad Street 10 mile run in Philadelphia (where we lived at the time) with me. He did. It was a struggle for a weight lifter, but he did it. And then a half marathon. And then a marathon, and then another marathon, etc.
This was the fourth one he ran this year. He is absolutely crazy.
He saw people fall over and collapse around him and kept going (it was surprisingly hot yesterday). We saw one guy hop, literally, across the finish line as he had a bad sprain in his right ankle. We saw a lot of mother-daughter, father-son teams running together. We saw two young ladies screaming in pain as they held hands and sprinted across the finish line. It was inspiring.
Mike thought he had something in his shoe early in the race so he pulled over to take of his shoe only to put it back on and stop again about a mile later because whatever was in there must have been in his sock and not his shoe.
A mile after that he was in the med tent because there wasn't a little rock in his shoe, it was his foot--a bone out of whack--no skin there to cover it. He had his foot wrapped and then went on the finish the race in less than five hours.
Not bad for a 40 year old.
We were waiting at the finish line and I got to run next to him for the last stretch of the race. It was so exciting to see him come running down the street right before the finish line. I was so excited I jumped into the street and started screaming, "Mike! Mike!" and he looked at me and gave me a big smile. All this after running 26 miles, most of that with an injured foot.
I love my brother. I am so proud of him.
His response about the marathon: "running is a humbling activity"
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Homelessness...a character trait of Atlanta
I have an issue with homelessness in Atlanta. Every large city has its homeless population, especially New York City where I lived before coming to Atlanta.
What really is bothering me about the homeless in Atlanta is that I feel like I can't do anything about it. I see the guys living under the bridges, I see John in the bus stop, I see the little tent city under the big tree next to my gym, and I see the lady living on the bench and what can I do about it?
My husband and I have befriended John, the gentle soul who lives in the bus stop closest to our home. We have taken him clothes, blankets, food, etc and have spent considerable time talking to him. He has had a hard life.
I have made a few phone calls, have spoken with a few people about getting John a place to stay. I have spoken to John about it and have told him that when he's ready we will gladly take him to wherever he needs to go, etc...(we don't want to force him).
He doesn't have a drug addiction issue and he isn't a vet. He's mentally ill.
So what can be done for him?
He's been homeless for practically 30 years. The day he graduated high school his parents drove him from his small Georgia town and dropped him off on the street in Atlanta. He's been homeless ever since. John has lived in and out of every shelter and transitional place in Atlanta and yet nothing has really "worked."
My husband called me a few days ago on his way to school to let me know that John wasn't in the bus stop and that all of his stuff was gone.
This morning as I was driving to work I looked over and noticed that John was back. I also noticed that his entire had nearly was wrapped in gauze.
I went over to talk to him and he told me he was beat up by...the COPS!!!!! It took a while for him to talk about it as he was really shaken up about it. They wanted him off the street but he didn't know where to go and this was the result. Even the hospital put him back on the street. A similar thing happened to him in July only he was locked up for five days and then put back on the street.
Where is justice in all of this?
I have had enough! I took John this afternoon to an emergency shelter that I have a connection with (after spoiling him at Wendy's) and am now on the quest to find something long term for him.
But John is one person. What about everyone else?
Homelessness in Atlanta really has me frustrated right now.
What would Jesus do in all of this? I thought about this the other day after I met with some people about what can be done (before John went missing) and felt that Jesus would invite John into his home, feed him a nice meal, and allow him to clean himself up. Obviously this isn't the safest thing to do, but would Jesus do it? Should we do it?
I called my husband and talked to him about inviting John over for dinner that night. That was the day he disappeared.
LORD, help me to LOVE John and to represent you well and LORD, please watch over all the people on the streets in this city tonight. Keep them safe.
What really is bothering me about the homeless in Atlanta is that I feel like I can't do anything about it. I see the guys living under the bridges, I see John in the bus stop, I see the little tent city under the big tree next to my gym, and I see the lady living on the bench and what can I do about it?
My husband and I have befriended John, the gentle soul who lives in the bus stop closest to our home. We have taken him clothes, blankets, food, etc and have spent considerable time talking to him. He has had a hard life.
I have made a few phone calls, have spoken with a few people about getting John a place to stay. I have spoken to John about it and have told him that when he's ready we will gladly take him to wherever he needs to go, etc...(we don't want to force him).
He doesn't have a drug addiction issue and he isn't a vet. He's mentally ill.
So what can be done for him?
He's been homeless for practically 30 years. The day he graduated high school his parents drove him from his small Georgia town and dropped him off on the street in Atlanta. He's been homeless ever since. John has lived in and out of every shelter and transitional place in Atlanta and yet nothing has really "worked."
My husband called me a few days ago on his way to school to let me know that John wasn't in the bus stop and that all of his stuff was gone.
This morning as I was driving to work I looked over and noticed that John was back. I also noticed that his entire had nearly was wrapped in gauze.
I went over to talk to him and he told me he was beat up by...the COPS!!!!! It took a while for him to talk about it as he was really shaken up about it. They wanted him off the street but he didn't know where to go and this was the result. Even the hospital put him back on the street. A similar thing happened to him in July only he was locked up for five days and then put back on the street.
Where is justice in all of this?
I have had enough! I took John this afternoon to an emergency shelter that I have a connection with (after spoiling him at Wendy's) and am now on the quest to find something long term for him.
But John is one person. What about everyone else?
Homelessness in Atlanta really has me frustrated right now.
What would Jesus do in all of this? I thought about this the other day after I met with some people about what can be done (before John went missing) and felt that Jesus would invite John into his home, feed him a nice meal, and allow him to clean himself up. Obviously this isn't the safest thing to do, but would Jesus do it? Should we do it?
I called my husband and talked to him about inviting John over for dinner that night. That was the day he disappeared.
LORD, help me to LOVE John and to represent you well and LORD, please watch over all the people on the streets in this city tonight. Keep them safe.
"I want new friends, not old mirrors"
Above is a quote I read recently that really spoke to me. I am adjusting to life in a new city and am attempting to make friends out of my current "church only" social circle. I am also trying to "come up" with a hobby and think it would be great if my hobby included new friends who were not from my workplace/church/clique. I have made one friend, Tina, so far. I am working on it. I'm also a workaholic so if I have a hobby and friends who aren't associated with work...
This quote really made me think about who Jesus' friends were. He wasn't friends with those who were on his level theologically or intellectually, but was the friends of publicans, sinners, and fishermen. If we are to follow the example of Christ then we, too, should be friends with those who are different from us.
LORD, help me to follow your example and to love all people and to befriend those who have no friends--like John who is living in the bus stop.
This quote really made me think about who Jesus' friends were. He wasn't friends with those who were on his level theologically or intellectually, but was the friends of publicans, sinners, and fishermen. If we are to follow the example of Christ then we, too, should be friends with those who are different from us.
LORD, help me to follow your example and to love all people and to befriend those who have no friends--like John who is living in the bus stop.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Life this week
So I ended up going to a Spinning class that night last week that I wrote the blog. It was quite an enjoyable class.
This week is quite a different story. I am on the road again for work and am staying in my little house in the mountains in Georgia. There is no gym here and it happens to be surprisingly too cold to do any exercise outside. So I find myself sitting for a week. I also don't have control over the selection of my meals, so I need to be really careful.
On a brighter note I know that I am making some progress. My body fat has decreased .2% and I have lost three pounds (one pound each for the past three weeks). So despite the fact that it will probably all come back this week, I am thankful for seeing the little progress. I need to focus on the positive. In the meantime, if I don't see (or really feel) more progress over about the next month I am going to go shopping and buy some bigger jeans. My pants are all tight on me and uncomfortable.
I started a new Bible Study/ devotional book. I started the "Jesus" series by Beth Moore and so far I have been really blessed. I tend to be one of those people who reads the Bible and has questions about what I am reading. I don't just believe blindly a lot of times and I like to think about it. I am still in the beginning of the study and it has a lot to say about Mary's pregnancy, which has always been one of the questions I have had--did it really happen exactly like that? How does the Holy Spirit "come upon" (Lk 1:35) someone like that? How did she know? Why did Gabriel come to her when she was all alone? What made her highly favored? etc. It's a good study and I am being blessed by it.
This week I will just have to spend more time focusing on my spiritual life and put the physical stuff on hold for the week.
Thank you, LORD for this reminder of time needed to be spent with you.
This week is quite a different story. I am on the road again for work and am staying in my little house in the mountains in Georgia. There is no gym here and it happens to be surprisingly too cold to do any exercise outside. So I find myself sitting for a week. I also don't have control over the selection of my meals, so I need to be really careful.
On a brighter note I know that I am making some progress. My body fat has decreased .2% and I have lost three pounds (one pound each for the past three weeks). So despite the fact that it will probably all come back this week, I am thankful for seeing the little progress. I need to focus on the positive. In the meantime, if I don't see (or really feel) more progress over about the next month I am going to go shopping and buy some bigger jeans. My pants are all tight on me and uncomfortable.
I started a new Bible Study/ devotional book. I started the "Jesus" series by Beth Moore and so far I have been really blessed. I tend to be one of those people who reads the Bible and has questions about what I am reading. I don't just believe blindly a lot of times and I like to think about it. I am still in the beginning of the study and it has a lot to say about Mary's pregnancy, which has always been one of the questions I have had--did it really happen exactly like that? How does the Holy Spirit "come upon" (Lk 1:35) someone like that? How did she know? Why did Gabriel come to her when she was all alone? What made her highly favored? etc. It's a good study and I am being blessed by it.
This week I will just have to spend more time focusing on my spiritual life and put the physical stuff on hold for the week.
Thank you, LORD for this reminder of time needed to be spent with you.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Pondering exercise?
I didn't feel like going to the gym early this morning. I slept in instead. Now I find myself sitting at the computer after work wasting time instead of going to the gym. I thought I'd be productive while doing so and I began to read online the advantages of different exercises, mainly cardio.
Today is supposed to be the day that I swim, but honestly, I just don't feel like getting in the pool today so I thought about adding the lap swim later this week. My body is a little sore from my workout yesterday so swimming would be a good thing, but then I read that swimming does nothing to help drop any weight. In fact, it may have the opposite effect (due to the body cooling down and not heating up). With other cardio workouts the body heats up and burns calories for up to 18 hours afterward. The same is not true with swimming because the body never really "warms" up.
This is what I found:
Calories Expended During Exercise for the regular workouts that I do
(for my body weight; at a moderate level; for an hour in duration--based on some formula)
biking-635
running-635
tennis (singles)-635 (my husband and I love to play!)
weight lifting-238
hiking-476 (rarely get to do it, but I enjoy it!)
Looking above are my regular workouts minus the Spinning class and some other cardio machines. Almost all of them burn the same amount of calories according to the formula, so why does it matter which workout I do? Why does my wellness coach want me lifting weights three times a week?
And alas, I am pondering exercise.
Today is supposed to be the day that I swim, but honestly, I just don't feel like getting in the pool today so I thought about adding the lap swim later this week. My body is a little sore from my workout yesterday so swimming would be a good thing, but then I read that swimming does nothing to help drop any weight. In fact, it may have the opposite effect (due to the body cooling down and not heating up). With other cardio workouts the body heats up and burns calories for up to 18 hours afterward. The same is not true with swimming because the body never really "warms" up.
This is what I found:
Calories Expended During Exercise for the regular workouts that I do
(for my body weight; at a moderate level; for an hour in duration--based on some formula)
biking-635
running-635
tennis (singles)-635 (my husband and I love to play!)
weight lifting-238
hiking-476 (rarely get to do it, but I enjoy it!)
Looking above are my regular workouts minus the Spinning class and some other cardio machines. Almost all of them burn the same amount of calories according to the formula, so why does it matter which workout I do? Why does my wellness coach want me lifting weights three times a week?
And alas, I am pondering exercise.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
New routine
I met with a "wellness coach" over a week ago now and we discussed some of my difficulties with working out and we talked about the weight that I've gained. After we came up with yet another plan I left the gym wondering--why do I feel like every time I move to somewhere new that my exercise habits have to change? Part of the answer is quite practical--they have to change. A new place with new responsibilities lead the need to be flexible with a past rigid workout plan, etc.
But what's really getting to me is that it seems like everyone else in the gym has a buddy to workout with and I don't. Now it's never bothered me before because unlike some other people in the gym I am not there to socialize...I am there to workout..or so I used to be until now.
Moving to Atlanta has been hard on me. I am adjusting to a new life and am adjusting to being far away from family and friends and while I've made a few friends in the three months that Andy and I have been here, they are all members of my church or are extensions of that church group. I am missing my non-churched-pre-christian conglomerate of friends.
In NY they were everywhere. Every now and again I could hang out with them or talk to them and not have to worry about work related things (I work for the church I attend) all the time. I don't have that luxury here...at least not yet and I am left wondering...what is the LORD teaching me in all of this?
So as I go to the gym I am also trying to build relationships. Ultimately I want to build relationships and live in a way that models the life of the LORD I follow, but I want to be able to do that in a way that is not defined only by my clergy title. Don't get me wrong, I love what I do and wouldn't trade it for the world. I really believe that it's a calling, but that doesn't mean that it isn't difficult from time to time--just like going to the gym.
So along with my new routine comes a new outlook on going to the gym.
But what's really getting to me is that it seems like everyone else in the gym has a buddy to workout with and I don't. Now it's never bothered me before because unlike some other people in the gym I am not there to socialize...I am there to workout..or so I used to be until now.
Moving to Atlanta has been hard on me. I am adjusting to a new life and am adjusting to being far away from family and friends and while I've made a few friends in the three months that Andy and I have been here, they are all members of my church or are extensions of that church group. I am missing my non-churched-pre-christian conglomerate of friends.
In NY they were everywhere. Every now and again I could hang out with them or talk to them and not have to worry about work related things (I work for the church I attend) all the time. I don't have that luxury here...at least not yet and I am left wondering...what is the LORD teaching me in all of this?
So as I go to the gym I am also trying to build relationships. Ultimately I want to build relationships and live in a way that models the life of the LORD I follow, but I want to be able to do that in a way that is not defined only by my clergy title. Don't get me wrong, I love what I do and wouldn't trade it for the world. I really believe that it's a calling, but that doesn't mean that it isn't difficult from time to time--just like going to the gym.
So along with my new routine comes a new outlook on going to the gym.
New gym= New music
I've noticed some interesting differences between the gym in NY and the gym in Georgia. Among them are the people living under the trees next to the gym, the age of the members of the new gym, as well as their ethnicity. One of the things I noticed today was the difference in music played at the pool:
Suffern, NY: Jack Johnson and similar music
Westend, Atlanta, GA: Barry White and some old time soul and R & B
Suffern, NY: Jack Johnson and similar music
Westend, Atlanta, GA: Barry White and some old time soul and R & B
Monday, September 14, 2009
Stairmaster
My new gym has a Stairmaster. It has been a few years since I have ventured onto one of these machines.
I was on it for ten minutes and it felt like I was exercising. While I was in graduate school I used to love the Stairmaster and would listen to some exciting music and workout on that thing for a good twenty to thirty minutes. It would excite me. Not so much anymore!
The Stairmaster is a good component of a cardio workout because not only is it cardio, but it helps to build muscle mass. I've also heard it said that working out on the Stairmaster helps one to lose body fat faster. Both of these are good benefits in addition to burning some calories.
The Stairmaster is on the second floor of the gym in front of a very large window which left me with the oppotunity to people watch. Watching people come and go from the parking lot wasn't as interesting as I expected so I began to look around and I noticed a tent city for homeless people under some large trees just beyond the fence on the side of a hill. It was interesting to see and it isn't the first one I have seen here in Atlanta. Next week I will check to see if they are still there when I get my climb on once again!
I was on it for ten minutes and it felt like I was exercising. While I was in graduate school I used to love the Stairmaster and would listen to some exciting music and workout on that thing for a good twenty to thirty minutes. It would excite me. Not so much anymore!
The Stairmaster is a good component of a cardio workout because not only is it cardio, but it helps to build muscle mass. I've also heard it said that working out on the Stairmaster helps one to lose body fat faster. Both of these are good benefits in addition to burning some calories.
The Stairmaster is on the second floor of the gym in front of a very large window which left me with the oppotunity to people watch. Watching people come and go from the parking lot wasn't as interesting as I expected so I began to look around and I noticed a tent city for homeless people under some large trees just beyond the fence on the side of a hill. It was interesting to see and it isn't the first one I have seen here in Atlanta. Next week I will check to see if they are still there when I get my climb on once again!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Ode to Spinning!
I haven't gone to a Spinning class since I was in graduate school. Today was the first one and I am feeling it! It felt really good to be with a group of people who were hardcore about exercising. It was a good class and I liked the instructor.
The thing I enjoy about Spinning is that it is different from other workouts and from other group exercise. You use almost all of your muscles in your body, it isn't boring, and you keep moving. By the time I climbed off of that bike I felt like I exercised. I also enjoyed using the bike to stretch. Those stretches felt so good!
Spinning is a cardio workout that increases and decreases tension, is done sitting and standing on the bike, and is low impact. In addition it burns a lot of calories. I love the intensity of it.
I am looking forward to the next class!
The thing I enjoy about Spinning is that it is different from other workouts and from other group exercise. You use almost all of your muscles in your body, it isn't boring, and you keep moving. By the time I climbed off of that bike I felt like I exercised. I also enjoyed using the bike to stretch. Those stretches felt so good!
Spinning is a cardio workout that increases and decreases tension, is done sitting and standing on the bike, and is low impact. In addition it burns a lot of calories. I love the intensity of it.
I am looking forward to the next class!
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Wellness in Families
I taught my first class today on "Family Issues" with a group of about 20 men and 1 woman putting their lives back together here in Atlanta. This is a class I will teach weekly for the next few months.
We made genograms of our families today. A genogram is basically a family tree with more information. It is used to track generational patterns and cycles of things--conflict, distance, addiction, disorders, career paths, number of children, choice of religion, etc. Whenever I do this with someone they are always shocked to see the things that repeat themselves through the generations. Research has documented that alcoholism is common in multiple generations, just as violence, career choice, and religion are. It always amazes me that people never think about these patterns in their families until they scribble it out on the paper. Some families have negative cycles and patterns that continue to repeat generation after generation, while others have positive things that repeat.
My favorite genograms are the ones where there is a lot of negativity and then all of a sudden there is a generation or a group of siblings where there are only positive things.
That happened to one gentlemen today. He was looking at his genogram and noticed that all of his sisters children didn't have any of the drama, trauma, or conflict that multiple generations of his family has experienced. This was profound for him to look at and when I asked him about it he said, "something must have broken the pattern."
When I pause to reflect on my own family and the cycles and patterns that exist I am astonished to think about how good God really is and has been to my generation in my family. We have broken many of those negative cycles and other generational curses that have existed in my family for a very long time.
This brings me to wellness in families. The Bible is pretty clear about bringing your children up in the way should go and they will not depart from it. I need to be healthy--physically, emotionally, and spiritually--and break the negative pattern that has existed in my family for so long. This healthy living will be passed on to my children and grandchildren.
I am joining the YMCA and not some other gym because I support the idea of community based family health and wellness. There are so many people who are suffering and there are so many broken families. We need to teach and model wellness in families.
We made genograms of our families today. A genogram is basically a family tree with more information. It is used to track generational patterns and cycles of things--conflict, distance, addiction, disorders, career paths, number of children, choice of religion, etc. Whenever I do this with someone they are always shocked to see the things that repeat themselves through the generations. Research has documented that alcoholism is common in multiple generations, just as violence, career choice, and religion are. It always amazes me that people never think about these patterns in their families until they scribble it out on the paper. Some families have negative cycles and patterns that continue to repeat generation after generation, while others have positive things that repeat.
My favorite genograms are the ones where there is a lot of negativity and then all of a sudden there is a generation or a group of siblings where there are only positive things.
That happened to one gentlemen today. He was looking at his genogram and noticed that all of his sisters children didn't have any of the drama, trauma, or conflict that multiple generations of his family has experienced. This was profound for him to look at and when I asked him about it he said, "something must have broken the pattern."
When I pause to reflect on my own family and the cycles and patterns that exist I am astonished to think about how good God really is and has been to my generation in my family. We have broken many of those negative cycles and other generational curses that have existed in my family for a very long time.
This brings me to wellness in families. The Bible is pretty clear about bringing your children up in the way should go and they will not depart from it. I need to be healthy--physically, emotionally, and spiritually--and break the negative pattern that has existed in my family for so long. This healthy living will be passed on to my children and grandchildren.
I am joining the YMCA and not some other gym because I support the idea of community based family health and wellness. There are so many people who are suffering and there are so many broken families. We need to teach and model wellness in families.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Food: Fuel or pleasure?
I have a confession: I, Monica, am an emotional eater.
I know this may come as a shock to some, especially to those who have had to work for or with me when I am stressed, frustrated, or have been with me when I have experienced some form of personal injustice. This may also be a shock to those who have grown up with me, listen to me when I am having a pity party, or otherwise have had the unfortunate pleasure of putting up with me when I am in an unmotivated state of positive being.
Eating for pleasure if usually just wrong--not always, but usually. The "usually" wrong is when I get myself into trouble. I eat when I am bored and not hungry, or when I am too lazy to do something else...or when it is just right there in my face screaming "eat me!"
This is why I am re-focusing the role of food in my life. Food is fuel for our bodies. I think if I viewed food this way I would think differently about the way that I eat and would make better choices. I am doing just that now.
For the month of September I am veggie/vegan/ish. I am not eating meat for a few reasons. The main reason is because I want to be healthier and every now and again I need to get back on track about what and why I am eating. Being a vegetarian, or really a wannabe vegan, is an attempt to focus on giving my body the fuel that it needs and focusing less on the pleasure aspect of eating. My husband doesn't help this because he eats so much grease, fat, and other junk and is still really thin.
I am also focusing on what I eat because I have yet to get back into the routine of working out consistently. I am definitely feeling it and am on the cusp of getting back into it, but balancing everything else I have going on is making it difficult. I am just still making excuses (I visited a local gym and will be joining it within the next week. I just can't do the gym here where I live. It is not motivating enough for me).
Which brings me to this question: when you eat, are you eating because your body needs fuel or are you eating for some other purpose?
I know this may come as a shock to some, especially to those who have had to work for or with me when I am stressed, frustrated, or have been with me when I have experienced some form of personal injustice. This may also be a shock to those who have grown up with me, listen to me when I am having a pity party, or otherwise have had the unfortunate pleasure of putting up with me when I am in an unmotivated state of positive being.
Eating for pleasure if usually just wrong--not always, but usually. The "usually" wrong is when I get myself into trouble. I eat when I am bored and not hungry, or when I am too lazy to do something else...or when it is just right there in my face screaming "eat me!"
This is why I am re-focusing the role of food in my life. Food is fuel for our bodies. I think if I viewed food this way I would think differently about the way that I eat and would make better choices. I am doing just that now.
For the month of September I am veggie/vegan/ish. I am not eating meat for a few reasons. The main reason is because I want to be healthier and every now and again I need to get back on track about what and why I am eating. Being a vegetarian, or really a wannabe vegan, is an attempt to focus on giving my body the fuel that it needs and focusing less on the pleasure aspect of eating. My husband doesn't help this because he eats so much grease, fat, and other junk and is still really thin.
I am also focusing on what I eat because I have yet to get back into the routine of working out consistently. I am definitely feeling it and am on the cusp of getting back into it, but balancing everything else I have going on is making it difficult. I am just still making excuses (I visited a local gym and will be joining it within the next week. I just can't do the gym here where I live. It is not motivating enough for me).
Which brings me to this question: when you eat, are you eating because your body needs fuel or are you eating for some other purpose?
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Dairy free is for me
There are some things in life that just aren't fair. Being lactose intolerant is one of those things-especially for me as I really enjoy eating cheese, ice cream, and other fine dairy oriented foods.
I had a visit to my new doctor in Atlanta today and we discussed lactose intolerance and it made me think a little bit about how we all have something that reminds us of how human we really are and how dependent we need to be on the LORD. I am not saying that being lactose intolerant is all that serious compared to what many others have to live with, but it is inconvenient and serves as a reminder every time I eat cheese or ice cream that my body is not perfect. It makes me rely on the LORD just a little bit more and reminds me that I need to be thankful for my otherwise good health.
There are ways around not eating dairy. I take a calcium supplement, use soy milk when I am making something just for me, and take a pill for those times when I just HAVE to have some cheese. Being conscience about what I am eating is a positive thing. Our bodies really are the temple of the LORD and we need to take care of them. Spending a few extra dollars occasionally or passing up on the string cheese (so sad, I know!) really is in my best interest.
Thank you LORD for making me me--dairy free and all!.
I had a visit to my new doctor in Atlanta today and we discussed lactose intolerance and it made me think a little bit about how we all have something that reminds us of how human we really are and how dependent we need to be on the LORD. I am not saying that being lactose intolerant is all that serious compared to what many others have to live with, but it is inconvenient and serves as a reminder every time I eat cheese or ice cream that my body is not perfect. It makes me rely on the LORD just a little bit more and reminds me that I need to be thankful for my otherwise good health.
There are ways around not eating dairy. I take a calcium supplement, use soy milk when I am making something just for me, and take a pill for those times when I just HAVE to have some cheese. Being conscience about what I am eating is a positive thing. Our bodies really are the temple of the LORD and we need to take care of them. Spending a few extra dollars occasionally or passing up on the string cheese (so sad, I know!) really is in my best interest.
Thank you LORD for making me me--dairy free and all!.
Monday, July 20, 2009
New season in life
I feel convicted after I just ate two cookies. I should preface that by saying that I ate a banana before I ate the cookies as my husband was eating a HUGE bowl of ice cream...which I should preface that by saying I was just complaining to my husband not even five minutes ago that my pants are tight...
The past two months has been nothing but transition in my life as I became an ordained minister and had to move completely out of my apartment in NY and put everything into storage for a month. Aside from that I got married in a different state, went on a honeymoon across the world, and then came back to move more than 900 miles away from my old place of residence. I have also started a new job (which is about an hour from home with Atlanta traffic...boo), am adjusting to being married, and to a new gym.
The nice thing about where we live is that there is a gym here, albeit not as nice as my old gym, but a gym none the less. I always say I'm not that sentimental, but the truth is I am. It takes me time every time I move to adjust to new things. I also seem to be comparing them to what was before. I guess it's part of the "grass is always greener on the other side" mentality.
I have neglected things that are priorities to me the past two months which begs the question of whether or not they are priorities. I have sincerely missed my prayer time and have recently spent some time earnestly before the LORD. I have missed exercising in general and am now adjusting to doing things that my husband likes, too (by the way...he can't stand going to the gym!). I have been eating whatever is available and really miss veggies!
Now is the time to stop making excuses. We are just about settled and moved into our new place. I am ready to be done shopping and thinking about making our new place home. It is home. I've just completed my second week in the office. I now know my way around the maze of the building and I know where the break room is so that I can pack a healthy lunch and take it with me. I now have been to the gym a few times and need to frequent it more often (i.e. make it a routine again). I am now figuring out my daily routine (although my job requires me to travel A LOT) and can settle into my health and wellness routine.
This is a new season in my life. It's time to put some new jams on the ipod and get to work.
The past two months has been nothing but transition in my life as I became an ordained minister and had to move completely out of my apartment in NY and put everything into storage for a month. Aside from that I got married in a different state, went on a honeymoon across the world, and then came back to move more than 900 miles away from my old place of residence. I have also started a new job (which is about an hour from home with Atlanta traffic...boo), am adjusting to being married, and to a new gym.
The nice thing about where we live is that there is a gym here, albeit not as nice as my old gym, but a gym none the less. I always say I'm not that sentimental, but the truth is I am. It takes me time every time I move to adjust to new things. I also seem to be comparing them to what was before. I guess it's part of the "grass is always greener on the other side" mentality.
I have neglected things that are priorities to me the past two months which begs the question of whether or not they are priorities. I have sincerely missed my prayer time and have recently spent some time earnestly before the LORD. I have missed exercising in general and am now adjusting to doing things that my husband likes, too (by the way...he can't stand going to the gym!). I have been eating whatever is available and really miss veggies!
Now is the time to stop making excuses. We are just about settled and moved into our new place. I am ready to be done shopping and thinking about making our new place home. It is home. I've just completed my second week in the office. I now know my way around the maze of the building and I know where the break room is so that I can pack a healthy lunch and take it with me. I now have been to the gym a few times and need to frequent it more often (i.e. make it a routine again). I am now figuring out my daily routine (although my job requires me to travel A LOT) and can settle into my health and wellness routine.
This is a new season in my life. It's time to put some new jams on the ipod and get to work.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Ode to pool friends
In a few weeks I will be moving half way across the country so tonight was the last night at the pool for me. I mentioned to some of my pool friends that it was my last night not thinking much of it and ended up having a really good conversation about life with two ladies there.
As I was swimming my laps I was reflecting on how important the pool has been for me over the past two years since I began swimming in this specific pool.
I have had a rough, but overall good two years. The pool has been something that I have been able to do for myself once a week and has been something that I have enjoyed. I find the water calming to my muscles and to my spirit even if I am out of breath after swimming laps for an hour or so.
The friends I started with in the pool are not the friends I ended up with in the pool. It is interesting to me that not one of the friends I first went to the pool with are still swimming but that in place of them the LORD has given me the opportunity to befriend other people.
Gerry gave me her address before I left the pool and wanted mine. The pool supervisor gave me a really big hug and kiss as I was leaving (I wasn't expecting that) and with tears in her eyes told me to "change the world, General."
So this is my ode to my pool friends:
To Gerry: keep going to your PT and swimming with that noodle..and thanks for making me laugh with, "Oh my gawd...the wudder is sooo cold Manika!"
To Peter (retired Episcopalian priest): get your laps in, Peter, and thanks for encouraging me. I, too, understand that the water is cold.
To Peter's wife: I'm sorry he talked to me more than you. Hopefully you two will talk more in the pool now that I will not be there.
To Monica: thanks for putting Jack Johnson on while we all swam. We always miss the nights when you aren't guarding.
To Matt: don't worry...if you get wet you will dry. It's a good thing you are wearing swim trunks just in case you did get wet from your chair.
To the guy who got divorced this past fall and comes swimming for social interaction and to check out the chicks: God bless you.
To the Chinese family with the twin boys (they are SOOO cute!): Congrats on not needing floaties around your arms anymore. Keep working on that doggie paddle!
To the Ukranian mom with a son about 11 or 12: why do you wear white pants to the pool every Monday night knowing that you are going to get wet? May you get some other pants.
To the young family with the little girl and baby: I encourage you to continue your family time at the pool. What a beautiful thing to do as a family.
To the old guy who always swims in the same lane and has never uttered a word to anyone in the past two years: I hope you have a voice.
To the pool supervisor: I hope everything works out with your mortgage. Keep on keepin on...
To the other pool supervisor: Your niece is adorable. I will remember for a long time when her dad was home from Iraq and came to see her swim in the pool.
As I was swimming my laps I was reflecting on how important the pool has been for me over the past two years since I began swimming in this specific pool.
I have had a rough, but overall good two years. The pool has been something that I have been able to do for myself once a week and has been something that I have enjoyed. I find the water calming to my muscles and to my spirit even if I am out of breath after swimming laps for an hour or so.
The friends I started with in the pool are not the friends I ended up with in the pool. It is interesting to me that not one of the friends I first went to the pool with are still swimming but that in place of them the LORD has given me the opportunity to befriend other people.
Gerry gave me her address before I left the pool and wanted mine. The pool supervisor gave me a really big hug and kiss as I was leaving (I wasn't expecting that) and with tears in her eyes told me to "change the world, General."
So this is my ode to my pool friends:
To Gerry: keep going to your PT and swimming with that noodle..and thanks for making me laugh with, "Oh my gawd...the wudder is sooo cold Manika!"
To Peter (retired Episcopalian priest): get your laps in, Peter, and thanks for encouraging me. I, too, understand that the water is cold.
To Peter's wife: I'm sorry he talked to me more than you. Hopefully you two will talk more in the pool now that I will not be there.
To Monica: thanks for putting Jack Johnson on while we all swam. We always miss the nights when you aren't guarding.
To Matt: don't worry...if you get wet you will dry. It's a good thing you are wearing swim trunks just in case you did get wet from your chair.
To the guy who got divorced this past fall and comes swimming for social interaction and to check out the chicks: God bless you.
To the Chinese family with the twin boys (they are SOOO cute!): Congrats on not needing floaties around your arms anymore. Keep working on that doggie paddle!
To the Ukranian mom with a son about 11 or 12: why do you wear white pants to the pool every Monday night knowing that you are going to get wet? May you get some other pants.
To the young family with the little girl and baby: I encourage you to continue your family time at the pool. What a beautiful thing to do as a family.
To the old guy who always swims in the same lane and has never uttered a word to anyone in the past two years: I hope you have a voice.
To the pool supervisor: I hope everything works out with your mortgage. Keep on keepin on...
To the other pool supervisor: Your niece is adorable. I will remember for a long time when her dad was home from Iraq and came to see her swim in the pool.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Ode to Turkey Bacon
In my new found enthusiasm the other day to be healthier I purchased some turkey bacon. The first morning I made it I followed the directions and ended up burning it. It didn't look bad, but it sure did taste bad. I ate it anyway because I am stubborn.
I was telling this story to a friend, let's call him Mr.Tillsley, over dinner and he had some comments since he considers himself to be somewhat of a cook and a health expert.
Mr.Tillsley told me that regular bacon isn't that bad for you compared to sausage links (I don't like sausage anyway). I found this interesting because I did my homework on turkey bacon before purchasing it and was led to believe that turkey bacon was significantly better for you. I did some more homework and compared the turkey bacon with the regular low sodium bacon that I eat:
turkey bacon (95% fat free): 1 slice (15g), 20 calories, 5 fat calories (0.5g, 0 sat fat), 10mg cholesterol, 140mg sodium, 3g protein.
Oscar Mayer Low Sodium Yummy Bacon: 2 slices (14g), 70 calories, 50 fat calories (6g, 2.5 sat fat), 10mg cholesterol, 170mg sodium, 4g protein.
Turkey bacon did remind me of something vegan (I had vegan turkey for Thanksgiving a few years ago with some friends--bad experience), but once it is cooked it isn't that bad.
I'll eat since I bought it and don't want it to go to waste but I don't think there is much of a difference between the two. Thank you, Mr.Tillsley.
I was telling this story to a friend, let's call him Mr.Tillsley, over dinner and he had some comments since he considers himself to be somewhat of a cook and a health expert.
Mr.Tillsley told me that regular bacon isn't that bad for you compared to sausage links (I don't like sausage anyway). I found this interesting because I did my homework on turkey bacon before purchasing it and was led to believe that turkey bacon was significantly better for you. I did some more homework and compared the turkey bacon with the regular low sodium bacon that I eat:
turkey bacon (95% fat free): 1 slice (15g), 20 calories, 5 fat calories (0.5g, 0 sat fat), 10mg cholesterol, 140mg sodium, 3g protein.
Oscar Mayer Low Sodium Yummy Bacon: 2 slices (14g), 70 calories, 50 fat calories (6g, 2.5 sat fat), 10mg cholesterol, 170mg sodium, 4g protein.
Turkey bacon did remind me of something vegan (I had vegan turkey for Thanksgiving a few years ago with some friends--bad experience), but once it is cooked it isn't that bad.
I'll eat since I bought it and don't want it to go to waste but I don't think there is much of a difference between the two. Thank you, Mr.Tillsley.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Now what?
A wise man once told me that it doesn't matter how well you strut when you are on the top of the mountain, but how straight you walk after you hit the bottom from falling off the mountain.
Today I am trying to walk straight after hitting the bottom.
The six week post training of the eight week interval training finished last week. I went to the gym today to do my measurements and expected to see some good results (after all, I have been working hard!). To my disappointment and to Chari's amazement EVERYTHING has gotten worse...I've put on a few pounds, my BMI and body percentage amount has increased AND all of my measurements have increased.
So what went wrong?
The stress of life...
The only thing that Chari can suggest is that I eat too much. Those who know me know that I really do LOVE to eat, but I eat healthy! This should not be the problem! I even gave up Twizzlers weeks ago. I just don't feel like eating my beloved Twizzlers.
So now what?
I don't have a scheduled workout routine at the moment. I am going to refine my diet more but I absolutely refuse to skip meals and go hungry. Some people can do that but it really isn't worth it for me.
I went to the market and bought some healthy food, but different types of healthy than usual. I bought kale, tofu, turkey bacon (which at the moment only makes me want to say YUCK!), but we will see how it goes.
Tomorrow is a new day.
What is the LORD trying to teach me in all of this? I thought my priorities were in order. I no longer workout first thing in the morning but have been using that time for my devotions instead. Now I am going to get up even earlier to go running (it's about time I get back into it) AND do devotions...there are some early mornings on the horizon for the next few weeks.
In the end, is this all worth it?
Today I am trying to walk straight after hitting the bottom.
The six week post training of the eight week interval training finished last week. I went to the gym today to do my measurements and expected to see some good results (after all, I have been working hard!). To my disappointment and to Chari's amazement EVERYTHING has gotten worse...I've put on a few pounds, my BMI and body percentage amount has increased AND all of my measurements have increased.
So what went wrong?
The stress of life...
The only thing that Chari can suggest is that I eat too much. Those who know me know that I really do LOVE to eat, but I eat healthy! This should not be the problem! I even gave up Twizzlers weeks ago. I just don't feel like eating my beloved Twizzlers.
So now what?
I don't have a scheduled workout routine at the moment. I am going to refine my diet more but I absolutely refuse to skip meals and go hungry. Some people can do that but it really isn't worth it for me.
I went to the market and bought some healthy food, but different types of healthy than usual. I bought kale, tofu, turkey bacon (which at the moment only makes me want to say YUCK!), but we will see how it goes.
Tomorrow is a new day.
What is the LORD trying to teach me in all of this? I thought my priorities were in order. I no longer workout first thing in the morning but have been using that time for my devotions instead. Now I am going to get up even earlier to go running (it's about time I get back into it) AND do devotions...there are some early mornings on the horizon for the next few weeks.
In the end, is this all worth it?
Sunday, April 26, 2009
reflection
Today is the one year anniversary of my father's untimely death.
It's also the one year anniversary of my car accident.
This means I haven't "really" been running in an entire year. I've run a few times (carefully) on the treadmill.
Now that the weather is nice it's time to get to running outside...let's see how my back handles it...
It's also the one year anniversary of my car accident.
This means I haven't "really" been running in an entire year. I've run a few times (carefully) on the treadmill.
Now that the weather is nice it's time to get to running outside...let's see how my back handles it...
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Time moves on...next steps
The eight week interval training finished a few weeks ago now, but I was on the road for about two weeks and haven't had a chance to write.
Chari has suggested six more weeks of training by doing longer sets. These one minute (instead of 30 second intervals) will totally deplete the glycogen stored in my muscles. From what I understand this forces my body to pull from fat. This has to be a good thing.
I am trying to keep up with eating healthy. It was really difficult to do so on the road for over a week and I was a little frustrated. The good thing is that it made me more determined to eat right when I got home.
There was a time in my life where I woke up very early every morning to hit the road jogging. I have not done much at all since last spring, but with the weather changing and (finally) getting a little nicer I have been thinking about getting up early to run. I thought about it and prayed about it for a few days and felt convicted. Here I was considering and willing to get up early to run, but have never been willing to get up early to do my devotions. I have begun to get up early in the morning and spend quiet time with God.
Time is moving on. This is a good time in my life and I am thankful.
Chari has suggested six more weeks of training by doing longer sets. These one minute (instead of 30 second intervals) will totally deplete the glycogen stored in my muscles. From what I understand this forces my body to pull from fat. This has to be a good thing.
I am trying to keep up with eating healthy. It was really difficult to do so on the road for over a week and I was a little frustrated. The good thing is that it made me more determined to eat right when I got home.
There was a time in my life where I woke up very early every morning to hit the road jogging. I have not done much at all since last spring, but with the weather changing and (finally) getting a little nicer I have been thinking about getting up early to run. I thought about it and prayed about it for a few days and felt convicted. Here I was considering and willing to get up early to run, but have never been willing to get up early to do my devotions. I have begun to get up early in the morning and spend quiet time with God.
Time is moving on. This is a good time in my life and I am thankful.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Measuring Results
Since January 5th I have gained a little over a pound. My BMI has gone down .2. Neither of those are very exciting, but what is exciting is that my body fat percentage has gone down 2%!
This just shows me that I am on the right track.
Sometimes we expect progress with the LORD to be "fast." We expect to see results almost instantaneously but the truth of the matter is that it takes time and hard work to "grow" in the LORD. We need to be intentional about growing in our spiritual lives by spending time in the Word, in prayer, and with other believers.
The same can be said for my training program at the gym. Progress is slow, but the progress is steady. I am intentional about my efforts and results, albeit small, can be seen. Be encouraged--even if your progress is small.
This just shows me that I am on the right track.
Sometimes we expect progress with the LORD to be "fast." We expect to see results almost instantaneously but the truth of the matter is that it takes time and hard work to "grow" in the LORD. We need to be intentional about growing in our spiritual lives by spending time in the Word, in prayer, and with other believers.
The same can be said for my training program at the gym. Progress is slow, but the progress is steady. I am intentional about my efforts and results, albeit small, can be seen. Be encouraged--even if your progress is small.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Conviction: Eat healthier!
I claim that I eat healthy food. To say that healthy food is not always an option is some times the truth, but usually just an excuse. I do get frustrated when I can't eat healthy and am "forced" to eat what has been provided for me. At times I need to eat what has been provided to be respectful, but usually I end up eating what is there because, well, it's there. And therein lies my biggest problem: I eat "what's there." I'm not going to starve any time soon, so why do I feel like I need to eat--even if it is "meal junk"? How often am I eating when I'm hungry anyway, and not just eating because it's "that" time?
I don't purchase junk food (unless you count the occasional dark chocolate), but others come and visit my apartment and bring junk with them. They bring in the chips, the soda, the brownies, the candy, etc. A group of ladies come to my apartment every Thursday night for a Bible Study and they always bring snacks to share with the group. We were doing mainly healthy things for a long time, but that changed when the seasons changed and not as many healthy options were available. Oh no--I'm just making another excuse! They know I LOVE twizzlers and someone usually brings me some. I eat them to be "respectful"--another excuse.
I grew up in the inner city in North Philadelphia where healthy food literally was not available. There were no supermarkets in the neighborhood and we didn't have a car. I remember taking the bus with my mom and my siblings to the supermarket. Not fun. My mom doesn't really cook and when she did she made "junk." My idea of a meal was a Philly soft pretzel on my way to school in the mornings with a hug and a bag of chips from the corner store for lunch. The corner store was where you did your household shopping from laundry soap to cigarettes to macaroni and cheese. The poor people's market. There were no fruit and veggies available.
I grew up eating like this and didn't really get to "make" my own food choices until I moved away to college (again, another excuse?). It was in college where I began to learn about how and what to eat. I met with a nutritionist several times in graduate school and was proactive about learning how to eat healthier. I felt better and invested more in my health.
I moved to a section of NY where food is not only expensive, but difficult to access. Again, I don't have a car and will not have a car until June when I move. The place that I live provides lunch and dinner daily, but it's not good for me. They try as much as they can to provide healthy food, but it's hard when cooking for a large group of people.
Which finally brings me to my conviction...I need to stop making excuses and need to eat healthy! The investment in my health will be worth it. I know that already. I've done it before. It's just inconvenient to eat healthy while living here--another excuse. I shop at Trader Joe's but TJ's isn't close and I always have to borrow a car to get there--I'm still making excuses!
I need to do it. I want to do it. Writing this blog is my commitment to it. I need to eat healthier.
I don't purchase junk food (unless you count the occasional dark chocolate), but others come and visit my apartment and bring junk with them. They bring in the chips, the soda, the brownies, the candy, etc. A group of ladies come to my apartment every Thursday night for a Bible Study and they always bring snacks to share with the group. We were doing mainly healthy things for a long time, but that changed when the seasons changed and not as many healthy options were available. Oh no--I'm just making another excuse! They know I LOVE twizzlers and someone usually brings me some. I eat them to be "respectful"--another excuse.
I grew up in the inner city in North Philadelphia where healthy food literally was not available. There were no supermarkets in the neighborhood and we didn't have a car. I remember taking the bus with my mom and my siblings to the supermarket. Not fun. My mom doesn't really cook and when she did she made "junk." My idea of a meal was a Philly soft pretzel on my way to school in the mornings with a hug and a bag of chips from the corner store for lunch. The corner store was where you did your household shopping from laundry soap to cigarettes to macaroni and cheese. The poor people's market. There were no fruit and veggies available.
I grew up eating like this and didn't really get to "make" my own food choices until I moved away to college (again, another excuse?). It was in college where I began to learn about how and what to eat. I met with a nutritionist several times in graduate school and was proactive about learning how to eat healthier. I felt better and invested more in my health.
I moved to a section of NY where food is not only expensive, but difficult to access. Again, I don't have a car and will not have a car until June when I move. The place that I live provides lunch and dinner daily, but it's not good for me. They try as much as they can to provide healthy food, but it's hard when cooking for a large group of people.
Which finally brings me to my conviction...I need to stop making excuses and need to eat healthy! The investment in my health will be worth it. I know that already. I've done it before. It's just inconvenient to eat healthy while living here--another excuse. I shop at Trader Joe's but TJ's isn't close and I always have to borrow a car to get there--I'm still making excuses!
I need to do it. I want to do it. Writing this blog is my commitment to it. I need to eat healthier.
Bosu Ball
I unfortunately had to take an entire week off from the gym. I was really sick. I slept a lot, which was nice. I am behind in the interval training as a result and am repeating the week I did before I got sick.
I am getting back into my routine and needed something to do today inbetween interval days. I decided to do a bosu ball video. The bosu is always sitting alone in the cardio room at the gym. I've never seen anyone use it seriously, just goofing off. I don't like workout videos a lot, so I thought I would give this one a try.
I learned a lot, mainly that the thing is called a "bosu." I learned that it's hard! I am venturing that it is really good for the lower body as you are constantly shifting and moving in an attempt to keep your balance. You really feel whatever you are doing with it almost immediately, which I like.
I'll try it again some time next week.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
being sick=boo
So I'm sick. I knew it was coming. I have gone almost the entire season without getting sick.
This past weekend was a very busy one since I didn't have off. It has taken its toll not only on my body, but on many people around me as well.
There is a reason the Lord REQUIRES us to take a Sabbath.
I have been reading a lot today and trying just to take an easy. I just don't like feeling like I am getting behind or off track with my workout routine. The routine is good for me.
Lord, what are you teaching me while I sit here with a sore throat, runny nose, headache, and fever?
This past weekend was a very busy one since I didn't have off. It has taken its toll not only on my body, but on many people around me as well.
There is a reason the Lord REQUIRES us to take a Sabbath.
I have been reading a lot today and trying just to take an easy. I just don't like feeling like I am getting behind or off track with my workout routine. The routine is good for me.
Lord, what are you teaching me while I sit here with a sore throat, runny nose, headache, and fever?
Saturday, February 7, 2009
End of week 3
I just ended week three of the interval training this morning.
I feel pretty good about it, although I thought I was going to die on the bike while pedaling as hard as I possibly could have...
I have also been re-evaluating the time I spend with the Lord these past couple of weeks. I need to make sure that I just don't discipline myself to do devotions, but need to make sure that I do them from the heart--"devotion". Some people spend hours a day studying the Bible, but their heart is not in it. Even if my time is less than what it could and probably should be, the important thing is that I am doing it from the heart.
Five more weeks to go for this interval training. Let's see if my body changes.
I feel pretty good about it, although I thought I was going to die on the bike while pedaling as hard as I possibly could have...
I have also been re-evaluating the time I spend with the Lord these past couple of weeks. I need to make sure that I just don't discipline myself to do devotions, but need to make sure that I do them from the heart--"devotion". Some people spend hours a day studying the Bible, but their heart is not in it. Even if my time is less than what it could and probably should be, the important thing is that I am doing it from the heart.
Five more weeks to go for this interval training. Let's see if my body changes.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
HIIT
I started interval training this past week. At the moment it's an eight week program. We'll see how it goes.
I voiced my frustrations to the fitness consultant/trainer/guru at the gym and she came up with this interval training idea.
Basically I workout out less time, but use the time more wisely. I've done something similar in the past.
She also added more stuff on the ball and less free weight stuff. I like the ball.
The most difficult thing for me at the moment are the chin-ups. My upper arms are weak.
There are times in life when the Lord calls us to re-focus on Him so that we can be more productive with our time. We may be working for him (as I am full-time) but we need an adjustment here or there. As I take these next eight weeks to re-energize my workout routine I am also re-focusing on the Lord. May you do the same.
I voiced my frustrations to the fitness consultant/trainer/guru at the gym and she came up with this interval training idea.
Basically I workout out less time, but use the time more wisely. I've done something similar in the past.
She also added more stuff on the ball and less free weight stuff. I like the ball.
The most difficult thing for me at the moment are the chin-ups. My upper arms are weak.
There are times in life when the Lord calls us to re-focus on Him so that we can be more productive with our time. We may be working for him (as I am full-time) but we need an adjustment here or there. As I take these next eight weeks to re-energize my workout routine I am also re-focusing on the Lord. May you do the same.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Wii Fit age:36
I recently had my body fat and all of that other stuff measured/calculated.
My weight is in the healthy range, as is my BMI and body fat percentage. I happy pleased with this, but I still want to improve. I haven't dropped any weight, but my body fat percentage is slowly improving.
I was feeling pretty good about myself until I tried out a friends Wii Fit and it told me that my Wii fit age is 36! There is nothing wrong with being 36, but I am 24. Naturally I was alarmed, especially since everything else the Wii board measured was impressively accurate. Why 36?
My friend explained to me that it has to do with my "center of balance," which basically means that I have bad posture.
Any ideas for posture improvement? If you remember from an earlier post I have lower back issues from a car accident and I know that my posture can contribute to the lower back issue as well. Any ideas?
My weight is in the healthy range, as is my BMI and body fat percentage. I happy pleased with this, but I still want to improve. I haven't dropped any weight, but my body fat percentage is slowly improving.
I was feeling pretty good about myself until I tried out a friends Wii Fit and it told me that my Wii fit age is 36! There is nothing wrong with being 36, but I am 24. Naturally I was alarmed, especially since everything else the Wii board measured was impressively accurate. Why 36?
My friend explained to me that it has to do with my "center of balance," which basically means that I have bad posture.
Any ideas for posture improvement? If you remember from an earlier post I have lower back issues from a car accident and I know that my posture can contribute to the lower back issue as well. Any ideas?
Where does the time go?
Where does the time go?
I have been realizing lately that I run out of time whether I'm home, working, with friends, or at the gym, so where does the time go?
There are some days at the gym when I look at the clock and realize that I am really behind in my workout and I don't really know why. I guess I start day dreaming or something, or worse yet, I run into someone I know who wants to socialize more than workout (and it annoys me!).
I am faced with the decision to not finish what I have planned at the gym for the day, or spend more time there. Spending more time at the gym is always an option, but it just means that I have less time for the other things that I need to get done.
I am going to try and be more efficient with my workout time. I spoke with my fitness consultant and she thinks that I should start interval training. I think I will.
Where does the time go when a person does not have a personal relationship with the saviour of mankind? Have you ever met someone who wishes they could turn back the clock, or has no idea what happened to the past ten or twenty years?
We can't get the time back. What we can do is make the best of the time we do have and spend it wisely. Time is a precious gift. And it's fleeting. Use it wisely.
I have been realizing lately that I run out of time whether I'm home, working, with friends, or at the gym, so where does the time go?
There are some days at the gym when I look at the clock and realize that I am really behind in my workout and I don't really know why. I guess I start day dreaming or something, or worse yet, I run into someone I know who wants to socialize more than workout (and it annoys me!).
I am faced with the decision to not finish what I have planned at the gym for the day, or spend more time there. Spending more time at the gym is always an option, but it just means that I have less time for the other things that I need to get done.
I am going to try and be more efficient with my workout time. I spoke with my fitness consultant and she thinks that I should start interval training. I think I will.
Where does the time go when a person does not have a personal relationship with the saviour of mankind? Have you ever met someone who wishes they could turn back the clock, or has no idea what happened to the past ten or twenty years?
We can't get the time back. What we can do is make the best of the time we do have and spend it wisely. Time is a precious gift. And it's fleeting. Use it wisely.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Too much butter?
I have been very busy. The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is very hectic for the work that I do. I haven't forgotten about this blog or about the commitment I have made to my health, I just haven't been writing about it.
A comment was made to me this past week about how much butter I use. The comment wasn't meant to be hurtful but the truth is that the comment did hurt my feelings, probably because of who said it.
Why do I let these things get to me? I felt almost silly explaining the situation to my fiance after it happened, but it really hurt my feelings, but why?
As if that weren't enough we went out to dinner the next night and were having bread before the meal came and she picked up the butter and placed it next to me stating that I should just hold on to it since I use most of it. Ouch!
I don't necessarily make New Year's resolutions but if I did I think it would be to use less butter. And to not be so sensitive.
A comment was made to me this past week about how much butter I use. The comment wasn't meant to be hurtful but the truth is that the comment did hurt my feelings, probably because of who said it.
Why do I let these things get to me? I felt almost silly explaining the situation to my fiance after it happened, but it really hurt my feelings, but why?
As if that weren't enough we went out to dinner the next night and were having bread before the meal came and she picked up the butter and placed it next to me stating that I should just hold on to it since I use most of it. Ouch!
I don't necessarily make New Year's resolutions but if I did I think it would be to use less butter. And to not be so sensitive.
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