Time for fun and time for normalcy

I knew this weekend was going to be busy!  Friday night out with friends for dinner, Saturday to the zoo, Sunday, hike and Monday, two walks and a hair cut.

Sunday-Went to bed at  10 p.m. last night and Rory was up at 6, but came back to bed for awhile, but making noises which kept me awake.  I really wish I could sleep by myself.
Weight is going up, but still in goal range.
Breakfast-yogurt with blueberries, toast with almond butter and tea.

Snack-trail mix

Lunch-Veggie burger
Snack-Trail mix
Dinner-Ribs, potato salad, frozen yogurt
Hike-5+ miles
Feelings-tired, but a nap will solve that problem. Looking forward to walking with friends. Frustrations that I cannot talk about.  Tired and going to bed early!
Light out at 9:40

Monday-Got up about 6:15.  Feeling slightly down.
Weight is down.  Eating at home helps a lot!
Breakfast-Eggs with spinach, bacon, salsa and cheese, ezekiel bread with almond butter
Snack-Trail mix
Lunch-Chicken Cobb salad
Snack-Trail mix
Dinner-Chicken Pad Thai with frozen yogurt
Hike-4 miles
Feelings-Feel down, but talking to others helps.  Being truthful helps! Not saying you are fine, when you are not!  Happy that I accomplished everything I wanted to, today.
Turned off light around 10:30.

Tuesday-Back to getting up at 5:30.  Taking Mari to the train station, really makes me feel like I have a purpose and a reason for getting up early.
Weight is within range
Breakfast-Eggs with brussel sprouts and green onions, salsa, cheese, Ezekiel Bread, almond butter, turkey bacon and tea.

Snack-trail mix

Lunch-half turkey burger
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Curry shrimp with rice and vegetables, Mocha freeze
Hike-4 miles
Feelings-feeling motivated. How do you live with someone who constantly frustrates you? I want to live in a peaceful house and I cause part of the issue.  How do I get balance between being social and getting to bed on time.
Turned off light around 11:45-Too late

Wednesday-Up at 5:30.  Didn't sleep well, but was up before the alarm.  Definitely need to take a nap
Weight at the low end of the range
Breakfast-Oatmeal, turkey bacon, tea
Snack-Trail mix
Lunch-Half tuna burger
Snack-Trail mix
Dinner-Salmon TV dinner with frozen yogurt
Feelings-it feels good to get things accomplished early.  Feeling tired-going to take a nap.  Tired of being tired.  Had a surprise phone call today from Petsmart.  I have a job interview on Friday.  My first reaction was nerves.  I have not been through an interview in many years.  Thankful to Patty from my small group, that I feel more confident.

Thursday-Up a little before the alarm would have gone off at 5:30.
Weight stayed the same and still within range
Breakfast-Cereal with blueberries, a banana, turkey bacon and tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Quiche
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Chicken with zucchini and other vegetables and rice, frozen yogurt
Feelings-Feeling depressed on the way to hike, felt happier after the walk, talked to a friend and decided to start cooking dinner as part of my morning routine, which helped later in the day. Accomplished what was on my to do list.

Friday-Woke up to the alarm.
Weight is at the lower end of the range.
Breakfast-goat yogurt with blueberries and bananas, turkey bacon, Ezekiel bread with almond butter and tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Veggie burger
Snack-Trail mix
Dinner-Salmon, kale, diced tomatoes, green onions, zucchini and mushroom risotto with yogurt
Feelings-good start to a Friday-several positive things happened, tired, I like cooking dinner earlier in the day, so I don't have to rush to make dinner and go pick up Mari or go to a hike.  Had an interview that went very well.  Had some sadness regarding Sweet Pea from a sympathy card
Early to bed.

Saturday-Got up around 6, before the alarm went off.
Weight is staying at the low end of the range
Breakfast-eggs with onion and spinach, turkey bacon, Ezekiel bread with almond butter and tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-turkey and provolone cheese sandwich from Jersey Mike's and milk tea from 85 degrees
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Chicken fried rice with vegetables
Feelings-up early to get to a hike, which was nice with a new group of people.  It was nice to be out by myself for awhile. Nice to stay home in the afternoon, while Rory is upstairs.  Getting things accomplished. Tired and got a nap.
Early to bed.

DINNER MENU

Sunday-Salmon Salad with Bell Peppers
Monday-Turkey, Fried Rice and Bell Peppers
Tuesday, Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Mushrooms and turkey bolognese.
Wednesday-Chicken, zucchini, diced tomatoes and rice
Thursday-Chicken, spinach, mushrooms and rice
Friday-out
Saturday-out

EXERCISE

Sunday-Walk
Monday-Walk
Tuesday-Walk
Wednesday-None
Thursday-Walk
Friday-None
Saturday-Walk

Where are we going?

There have been a couple changes since the first of the year.  Mari started a new job and yesterday, we had to put Sweet Pea to sleep.  I was stating, about the middle of last week, that I felt stalled, but I am not.

Sunday-I went to bed early last night and woke up between 4 and 5.  Finally got up about 6:30.  My one morning without the alarm.
My weight dropped and is in the lower end of the range.
Breakfast-goat yogurt with blueberries and bananas, Ezekiel bread with almond butter and bacon
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Quiche
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Chili Mac with frozen yogurt
Exercise-5.25 miles
Feelings-It felt strange this morning to come downstairs and not see Sweet Pea, as well as look in Mari's room and not see her.  I know I will get used to this eventually.  Time to move forward.  Tonight, when we got home, I looked over at the couch and expected to see her and of course, did not.  The girls have been in tears still and I have not had that feeling.  I know we all grieve differently.  I have always been a realist and I know she is gone.  I miss her, but I know she is in a better place.  After 14 years, we are so used to having her with us and her habits.

Lights turned out at 10:25.

Monday-Woke up before the alarm.  Really did not sleep the best.  Could not get comfortable.
My weight is staying in the lower end of the range.
Breakfast-cereal with blueberries and bananas, turkey bacon and tea
Snack-Trail mix
Lunch-Chicken salad
Snack-Trail mix
Dinner-Salmon TV dinner
Walk-4.4 miles
Feelings-feeling sad, which is part losing Sweet Pea and feeling like there is nothing left in this house.  Mari and Marissa feel the same way and we are all ready to move on.  Now I need to find a job, even though it may be part time.  I am going to get a part time job and work on starting a walking tour business.

Tuesday-Couldn't remember if I turned on the alarm and then realized I did.  Got up a little before 5:30.  A nap is definitely in the cards today.
My weight is staying in the lower end of the range
Breakfast-hard boiled egg on toast with cheese
Snack-Trail mix
Lunch-chicken salad
Snack-Trail mix
Dinner-chicken, zucchini, mushrooms, diced tomatoes and rice and a cookie
Exercise-4+ mile walk
Feelings-I am not going to let fear and laziness keep me from moving forward.  I need to be positive. I have to remember I have lost 70+ pounds and I can do what I put my mind to.  I did fill out an application for PetSmart, plus I did go over and introduce myself to the person who hires.  It felt really good to take a step forward.  Walk was good and it is nice to stay after for social.

Wednesday-Woke up to the alarm at 5:30.  I know this is going to be a crazy morning!
My weight is staying in the lower end of the range.
Breakfast-Took myself out to breakfast to Cinnamon Productions! Had eggs with cheese and vegetables and sourdough toast and a Mint Mocha.

Lunch-shrimp salad
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-fish burrito

Feelings-chaotic as Mari had to be at the train at 6:30 and Marissa had to be at the dentist at 8. Finally got away from the dentist at 9 and then got breakfast. Back to the dentist to pick up Marissa up at 10:45.Got an errand accomplished.Nap time. I want to start a walking tour business and I am getting impatient and I really need to slow down and do this the right way.  Chaos!  It helped to go to small group and focus on something else.
Light out at 10

Thursday-Woke up before the alarm!
My weight is staying in the lower end of the range.
Breakfast, eggs, veggies and rice with tea and turkey bacon.
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-pizza and soup at CPK
Snacks-trail mix-one about 4:45 and one while walking
Dinner-chicken burrito from Sharkey's and frozen yogurt
Feelings-going to only focus on my photography, the walking tour business, exploring and Sunset hikes and my health.  I need to stop feeling scattered.  What is important?  Headed for Naples to do a dry run of a walk I am going to do for Sunset hikes. Tired when I got home.  Got things done and rested.  Did not feel like eating dinner at 5, so put off until after hike.  I could tell my blood sugar got low during the hike, so that is when I had the second snack.  It was nice to join in on the festivities at Sharkey's.
Turned off the light at 11:45.

Friday-forgot to turn on the alarm, so Mari/Rory woke me up about 6.  Flew out of bed to take Mari to the train.
My weight is staying within the range
Breakfast-eggs, cheese, kale, Ezekiel bread with almond butter
Snack-trail mix

Lunch-Meat loaf sandwich

Snack-trail mix

Dinner- out for Afghanistan food
Feelings-feeling positive today, as well as frustrated. One of my least favorite things is to work on finances. It was nice to get out with friends for dinner.  This is going to be a busy weekend with a lot of going out!

Saturday-up at 6:30. It was nice to sleep in this morning. Going to the zoo today.

My weight is going up, but still within range.

Breakfast-cereal with blueberries,bananas,turkey bacon and tea

Snack-trail mix

Lunch-out-chicken salad,chicken strips and French fries

Snack-trail mix and soft serve ice cream

Dinner-grilled cheese with bacon and spinach and yogurt

Feelings-enjoyable day at the zoo.  Too many people and too much traffic.  Exhausted.

DINNER MENU

Sunday-Out
Monday-Chicken Pad Thai with noodles
Tuesday-Shrimp Curry
Wednesday-Salmon
Thursday-Chicken with Ziti
Friday-Salmon, zucchini, kale, onion, diced tomatoes and rice
Saturday-Chicken Fried Rice

EXERCISE

Sunday-hike
Monday-two walks
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-None
Thursday-walk
Friday-None
Saturday-Hike

Month end-check in

So far for the month of January, I am down 2 pounds.  I know my body will level off eventually

Sunday-Finally got up around 6:30.  I catnapped from about 5 to about 6:30.  Not the greatest sleep, as I was worried about Sweet Pea.  Sweet Pea is a diabetic cat and we ran out of insulin last night for various reasons.
Breakfast-Eggs with spinach and onion, turkey bacon and tea
Snack-Trail mix

Lunch-Leftovers from yesterday of salad.

Snack-frozen yogurt

Dinner Salmon TV dinner
Feelings-tired of Rory's complaining. Concerned about Sweet Pea, as we ran out of her insulin last night. I was hoping that the vet had sent the paper work to the pharmacy, which did happen.I really need to trust in God. Feeling sad. 

Turned off the light around 10.

Monday-Got up a little before 5:30.  Glad to be back on normal morning routine.
Weight is staying with range
Breakfast-Eggs with bell peppers and onions, turkey bacon and tea

Snack-trail mix

Lunch- left over salad from the weekend

Snack-trail mix

Dinner-chicken with mushroom risotto and green beans and frozen yogurt

Exercise-4.6 miles
Feelings-decided this morning to not turn off the fan and not turn on the coffee maker until I was almost out the bedroom door, so I did not have to hear Rory talk.  I know that sounds mean, but I enjoy quietness and peacefulness in the morning.  Feeling very frustrated about many things. It was really nice to be able to talk to a friend. Feeling very blessed.

Turned off the light at 11 pm

Tuesday-Woke up a couple of minutes before the alarm went off at 5:30 a.m.
Weight is staying within range
Breakfast-Cereal with bananas and blueberries, turkey bacon and tea
Snack-Trail mix
Lunch-Meat Loaf sandwich

Snack-Trail mix

Dinner-Chicken, broccoli and macaroni and cheese and frozen yogurt
Feelings-Tired, definitely will be taking a nap.  Enjoying editing pictures and having a quiet house, as Rory went to a movie.  Chaotic as Mari's train was late in the morning, therefore her train coming home was going to be later and we have a hike to get to. Usually Mari texts me when she gets to Union Station, and she didn't and I was concerned. She was on the train, she was supposed to be on. A friend had a car issue that I had to help with and therefore I missed the hike. The things that happened were relatively minor and gotten taken care of.

Light went out around 11

Wednesday-woke up when the alarm went off at 5:30.  Rory had awakened me a couple of times during the night, which did not help.
Weight is staying within range.
Breakfast-Eggs with bell peppers, Ezekiel bread with almond butter and turkey bacon and tea.

Snack-trail mix

Lunch-veggie burger sandwich

Snack-trail mix

Dinner-tacos from Chipotle and frozen yogurt
Feelings/things I got from my readings-Make a decision.  Just say yes or no, and don't keep changing your mind.  Make the best decision you can and trust God with the results.  Be decisive!  Whatever I need to do in life, just do it.  Keep it simple and trust God with the results. 

Lights out atm10:30.

Thursday-woke up when the alarm went off at 5:30

Weight is at the low end of the range.

Breakfast-quiche,turkey bacon,tea

Snack-trail mix

Lunch-pizza,salad and iced tea

Snack-Trail mix

Dinner-shrimp,chicken kabob,salad and rice and baklava,

Exercise-4.5 mile walk

Feelings Marissa and I went to San Diego. Fun and tiring day. I wish Rory could handle household stuff,instead of getting me in the middle of things, especially when I am not home.

Light off at 10:15

Friday-woke up before the alarm at 5:25.
Weight is within the range and still at the low end.
Breakfast-Egg Burrito with turkey bacon and tea.
Snack-trail mix

Lunch-Half turkey burger

Snack-trail mix

Dinner-Shrimp and chicken,egg rolls.rice and veges with ice cream
Feelings-Tired and sad, but dealing with reality.  We may have to put Sweet Pea to sleep.  This morning she is having labored breathing.  I took her to the vet and they put her on oxygen.  They are doing blood and urine analysis.  She is 16 and has been dealing with diabetes and kidney issues.  I do not want her to suffer.  Went out to dinner with friends, which was really nice, plus very needed.

Saturday-woke up at 6, thinking we were going to LA, but there were other things going on that changed that decision.

Weight is within the range.

Breakfast-Egg pizza with turkey bacon and tea

Snack-trail mix

Lunch-Half tuna sandwich
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-chicken, vegetables, rice with salsa

Feelings-sad, but knowing I am making the right decision. This is hard.I had to make the decision to put Sweet Pea to sleep.  I am at peace with the decision I made.  I will miss her.  This has been a hard day.  Most of the day my emotions were pretty good, but tonight, it has been hard.  I, also, am not used to staying home all day on Saturday, so I fee somewhat lost.  

Turned off the light at 9:59

DINNER MENU

Sunday-Chili Mac
Monday-Salmon
Tuesday-Chicken, zucchini, diced tomatoes, rice
Wednesday-Fish Burritos
Thursday-Chicken Mushroom Risotto
Friday-Shrimp couscous
Saturday-Grilled cheese with Bacon and Spinach

EXERCISE

Sunday-walk
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-None
Thursday-two walks
Friday-None
Saturday-possible trip to the zoo

Normal routine

Eating healthy and exercising has become something I do and I need to stick to a normal routine, so I get the rest I need.

Sunday-got up at 6:30.  I did not have the greatest sleep as I was sore from yesterday.
Weight was within range
No exercise today
Breakfast was oatmeal with blueberries and a banana, turkey bacon and tea
Snack-Trail mix
Lunch-Turkey half sandwich
Snack-Trail mix
Dinner-Chicken with sweet potatoes and broccoli and yogurt
Feelings-I am feeling tired and sore from yesterday. Quite often after I do a Saturday walk/hike with my hiking family, I have a tendency to go down in the dumps.  I am somewhat fighting this today. I did hit the boredom issue by the end of the day.
Turned off the light around 10.

Monday-got up at 5:30.  Better sleep.  I keep saying that I am frustrated, but there is nothing I can do about the frustration, as he is not going to change, but there is something I can do about the boredom.
Weight was within range.
Breakfast was cereal with a banana, turkey bacon and tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Salad with bread
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Chili Mac
Feelings-I am going to do my devotional reading and get breakfast made, before I get on the phone/computer.  I am going to do financial stuff once a week, but log in the checking account every day, as part of my computer time. The change in the routine helped.  I did errands and some reading.  I did not feel like I was beating myself because I was not getting things done.  Stressed over Marissa's dentist appointment as she is going to have to have approximately $5000 worth of work done on her teeth.  Rory was trying to figure out other ways of dealing with the cost, also known as not dealing with reality.
Turned off the light around 10:40 and had a panic attack about midnight!  Got to bed too late, as I was looking at events on my meet up group.

Tuesday-got up at 5:30.  Could use more sleep, will definitely be taking a nap.
Weight was within range.
Breakfast-Goat yogurt with blueberries, banana, Ezekiel bread and almond butter.
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-half a tuna burger
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Chicken with couscous and vegetables
Exercise-4+ mile walk and some home exercises
Feelings-I am tired, as I stayed up a little later than I should looking at a schedule for my hiking group.  I had a panic attack during the night, probably from dealing with all of the stress from yesterday.  Marissa had an appointment with her therapist today and I thought it was at 11, and if I had looked at my calendar, I would have seen that her appointment was at 2.  I am very accustomed to her appointments with her OT being at 11.  I have to look at it on the positive side, that I got some things done and I had some one-on-one time with Marissa. The walk was good and it was nice to socialize afterwards.  Got to bed later than I should, but, overall it was a good day
Turned off the light about 11:20

Wednesday-got up at 5:30.  Definitely taking a nap.
Weight was within range.
Breakfast-Eggs with spinach, onions, cheese and salsa.  Ezekiel bread with almond butter
Snack-Trail mix
Lunch Quiche with coffee
Snack-Trail mix

Dinner-Chicken with buffalo sauce,rice and vegetables and yogurt
Feelings-I am tired, as I stayed up later than I should, since I was social after the hike, but I enjoyed. I am going to allow myself to stay after to socialize on days where we have no appointments the next day, as I can take naps.  It has been a good day, as I have gotten a meet up written up, a blog posted on explorewitht.com and some pictures edited.  I, always feel good when I accomplish things. Nice to spend time with Mari, even though there were interruptions

Turned off the light about 10:30

Thursday-got up at 5:30.
Weight was within range.
Breakfast-Quiche, turkey bacon, tea
Snack-Trail mix
Lunch-Chicken salad
Snack-Trail mix
Dinner-Chicken with veggies and rice and frozen yogurt
Exercise-5.5 mile walk
Feelings-Good start to a morning, even with a small bump in the road.  Feeling good as I am accomplishing things every day, as well as mundane house stuff.  Glad Incould be social.
Light went off at 10:45

Friday-got up at 5:30.  I was awake at 5, but went back to sleep, until I heard the alarm.
Weight was within range.
Breakfast-Eggs with vegetables, Ezekiel bread and almond butter, turkey bacon and tea

Snack-trail mix

Lunch-shrimp wrap

Snack-trail mix

Dinner-shrimp tacos with rice and yogurt
Feelings-I like this new schedule, as it does not feel like routine to me and I am getting things done. There is a routine to it, but there isn't. Slight bumps in the road, but working through it. Feeling more positive. Things I need to work on- feeling more secure in myself, trusting, faith,confidence and working through fear.

Light went off at 10:45

Saturday-Woke up between 5 and 5:30, but fell back asleep and finally got up around 6:30.
Weight was within range, in fact it has been staying the same for the last three days.
Breakfast-oatmeal with turkey bacon and tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-chicken cobb salad with garlic bread
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-chicken kabob with rice and salad and a white chocolate chip cookie
Feelings-looking forward to exploring today.  I enjoy being able to actually spend time with Mari on the weekends, when she is not sleeping.  Fun day out with friends, exploring Pacific Palisades.  Coming home to negativity is not enjoyable.

DINNER MENU

Sunday-Salmon TV dinner
Monday-chicken and mushroom risotto
Tuesday-chicken and broccoli macaroni and cheese
Wednesday-Burrito
Thursday-Garlic Lime chicken
Friday-Curry Chicken
Saturday-Salsa chicken with chimichurri rice

EXERCISE

Sunday-none
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-None
Thursday-Walk
Friday-None
Saturday-walk

Decisions and changes

After two weeks of Mari working, I am learning what I can and cannot do.  One of the things I really need is my rest, as well as my hikes and socializing.  I need to have balance in all of this.

Sunday-I was awake at 5:15, but I did not get up until 6:15.  I sort of slept in that hour.
Weight was within goal range
Breakfast-Eggs, smoked salmon, turkey bacon, toast with almond butter, herb tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Quiche
Snack-Trail Mix
Dinner-Fish with rice and vegetables-ate out, which was not planned.  Made good choices!
Water
Exercise-A 3 mile hike and some home exercises
Words/feelings-trying not to people please, but set boundaries and take care of myself! Sunday feels like a catch up day, especially after two days of being gone.  Looking forward, but not looking forward to our hike.  Found lost dog on our hike, which cancelled the hike, but we did the right thing.
Turned off the light about 10.

Monday-Was awake before the alarm went off at 5:30.
Weight is within goal range
Breakfast-Eggs, rice, vegetables and bread left over from last night, turkey bacon, herb tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-chicken salad
Snack-Trail mix
Dinner-chicken, vegetables and rice mixed with marsala/curry sauce and frozen yogurt
Water
Exercise-A 4 mile hike and some home exercises
Words/feelings-feeling sort of strange when you hear that someone you knew in high school lost a child, sort of how I felt when I heard about someone that I knew at age 4, was driving. Not quite the same feeling, but I still see this person, as if he was in high school, not as a dad.  I see the four year old, as a four year old, not as a teenager.  Feeling pushed to get something done.  Mari came down with a cold and I wanted to be a mom and make her all better.  I didn't get to see her until about 9:30 last night.
Turned off the light around 11, as I knew I could sleep in on Tuesday.

Tuesday-slept in until 6:40.
Weight is within goal range
Breakfast-Eggs, Kale, cheese, salsa and toast with almond butter
Snack-trail mix

Lunch-Shrimp salad

Snack-trail mix

Dinner-Chicken with rice and vegetables and yogurt

Exercise-4.75 mile walk and home exercises

Water-2-bottles
Words/feelings-feel more rested as I got to sleep in a little bit. Happy that I got things accomplished,feeling sad that I can't socialize after hikes, because I am trying to get rest.
Turned off the light at 10:15

Wednesday-Woke up before the alarm and got up at 5:30.
Weight is within goal range
Breakfast-Cereal with bananas and blueberries, turkey bacon and tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Meat Loaf Sandwich
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Chicken burrito
Words/feelings-overwhelmed and am I doing/saying what is right.  Mari was struggling this morning to get out the door and I told her she should go to work, as she was doing better last night. Marissa was not feeling well this morning and I am not sure whether it is cold or anxiety.  I was asked to go hiking in the mountains tomorrow and my first reaction was no, as I have a usual Thursday night hike, but nothing else.  I changed my mind and said yes.  Stepping out of my comfort zone!

Thursday-Woke up at 5:30.  Mari forgot to turn on her alarm and did not get up until 6, so she made a 7:10 train.
Weight is within range.
Breakfast-Goat yogurt with blueberries, toast with almond butter, tea
Snack-Trail mix
Lunch-Half Turkey sandwich with salad
Snack-Trail Mix
Dinner-Chicken with diced tomatoes, zucchini and rice
Words/Feelings-Nice day.  Hike was definitely out of my comfort zone, but enjoyable.  Very tired by the end of the day.  God was definitely in control.

Friday-Woke up around 5:15 and finally got up by 5:30.  Normal day as far as getting out the door.
Weight is within range
Breakfast-Eggs with Spinach and onions, Toast with almond butter, tea
Snack-Trail Mix
Lunch-Veggie sandwich
Snack-Trail Mix
Dinner-Chicken Barbonara with frozen yogurt
Words/feelings-Not looking forward to this morning as the plumber is coming to replace some things in our bathroom, which means Rory will have to be downstairs.  I am going to run errands!  The plumbing company called and cancelled, and I was very thankful.  Still need to run errands.

Saturday was a field trip day to Pasadena/Eagle Rock with a walk of approximately 5 miles and 1300 steps.  Made good choices with food.  I need to stick to my normal schedule, especially with having to get Mari to the bus by 6:30.  I need balance and I need to pace myself.

DINNER MENU

Sunday-Chicken with sweet potatoes and broccoli
Monday-Chili Macaroni
Tuesday-Chicken with couscous and veggies
Wednesday-Buffalo chicken
Thursday-Chicken with broccoli and rice
Friday-Shrimp Tacos
Saturday-out

HIKES/WALKS

Sunday-None
Monday-Mission Viejo Lake walk
Tuesday-Turtle Rock walk
Wednesday-None
Thursday-Shady Canyon
Friday-None
Saturday-Pacific Palisades Secret Stairs walk

Goals

I, definitely, need hikes/walks.  This past week we had two days of rain, which fouled up my walks.  I can deal with home life, when I walk on a regular basis.  My goal for this year is to work on my mental and spiritual health, now that I have my physical health under control and plan to continue with keeping it under control.

Sunday-got up at 6:30, although, I could have slept longer. Definitely getting a nap today!
Weight is within range and back to eating on routine.
Exercise-Some home exercises and a 3.88 mile walk
Breakfast-Cereal with banana and blueberries, turkey bacon and herb tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Meat Loaf Sandwich and a coffee
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Pho Soup with yogurt and a Thai iced tea
Water-2 bottles
What I read, music I listen to and podcasts-Confident Woman Devotional, Trusting God Day by Day Devotional, music-John Tesh, Spanish Guitar
Words/Feelings-Nice to not have to push to go someplace first thing in the morning, tired, frustrated that Rory can't get certain things he wants-he has no control when he goes to the store(impulse buying), nice to be able to walk and talk with friends, need to work on confidence in many things in my life.  Watching Tiny House and realizing how I would like things more simple. Realizing that Rory does not really respect me and cares more about Mari than he does me or Marissa-very sad!
Turned off the light around 10:15.

Monday-back to the work week and my getting up at 5:15.  Better start to a week. I did get a nap.
Weight is within range.
Exercise-Home exercise and a 4.5 mile walk.
Breakfast-Eggs with bell peppers and onions, Ezekiel bread with Almond Butter and turkey bacon
Snack-Trail mix
Lunch-Left over Pho soup with chicken burger and Chai Tea Latte
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Basil Pest Chicken with mushrooms and rice, ice cream and Thai tea.
Water-2 bottles
My reading, music I listen to and podcasts-On the way home from taking Mari to the train, I listen to a podcast called Happier. On Spotify, I am listening to Discover Weekly, which is a mixture of tunes.Reading a book that a friend of mine wrote on 60's and 70's music and then listened to some Elton John music, read a chapter in a book that I am reading about a country singer and his upbringing, read 5 pages in What Color is my Parachute and a book that Marissa gave me on crimes in California.
Words/Feelings-Need to find a job that I really enjoy and not just find a job to find a job.  I need to respect and accept myself and trust others. I do not trust Rory as he has lied to me in the past and still lies about certain things.  He does not trust others and does not trust my friends and wonders why I do not stay home and watch TV with him.  I am very much a do person  and it is very difficult for me to sit for very long.    He keeps asking if I was always this athletic.  I enjoy walking, I enjoy being with others and I love to explore.  I was enjoying reading and listening to music.  Love the quiet.
Turned off the light around 11:15.

Tuesday-My usual getting up at 5:15.  I was awake before the alarm went off. Need a nap and it is only 9:30 a.m. I did get a nap.
Weight is within range.
Exercise-Home exercise and a 4.5 mile walk
Breakfast-Quiche, turkey bacon
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Turkey burger with coffee
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Chicken with Masala sauce, onions, rice and mixed vegetables. Frozen Yogurt
Water-2 bottles
Words/Feelings-Feeling very tired, then the energy came back.  Still going to take a nap.  Enjoying the peacefulness of the house, as Rory is getting maintenance done on his car.  Feeling good as I got something accomplished that I was not sure how it was going to work out.  I was hoping I could come home from doing errands and edit pictures, but Rory was home and complaining about everything.  He did go upstairs and I did get to edit pictures. Concerned about Mari at our walk, as she got very tired.  Trying to learn a new app.  About to finish a book and trying to figure out what kind of book I want to put in its place.
Turned off the light at 10:45.

Wednesday-Up at 5:15.
Weight is within range.
Exercise-Home Exercise
Breakfast-Egg Burrito with Turkey Bacon and a banana
Snack-Trail Mix
Lunch-Chicken salad from Rubio's
Snack-Trail Mix
Dinner-Orange Chicken with Chow Mein and yogurt
Water-1.5 bottles
Words/Feelings-After I drop Mari off at the train station, I listen to a podcast called Happier, on the way home and I was doing some thinking; I am very much an organized/creative.  I have a tendency to get into a routine, which is my organized side, but how do I be creative?  Somewhat tired and was able to take a short nap.  Love listening to music!  Getting bored with routine and staying at home.  Working on something that is frustrating me, but was able to make it work with some help, which felt good.  I need to have confidence in my self.  Mari got home late, which I stressed out about, but it worked itself out.
Turned off the light at 11:30

Thursday-Up at 6, which was really nice!
Weight is within range
Exercise
Breakfast-Egg Pizza with turkey bacon
Words/Feelings-I do like routine, but there are times I need to change it up.  I, definitely, need variety.  Maybe that is part of my creative.

A synopsis of Thursday to Saturday:  weight continued to be within goal range, I did approximately 21 miles of walking between Thursday and Saturday and my legs were feeling it  By Saturday, I was very tired!

DINNER MENU

Sunday-chicken with basil pesto sauce, rice and vegetables
Monday-Chicken with Masala/Curry sauce, rice and vegetables
Tuesday-Chicken Fried Rice
Wednesday-Burrito
Thursday-Chicken, Zucchini with diced tomatoes and rice
Friday-out
Saturday-out

EXERCISE

Sunday-hike-Advanced Turtle Rock
Monday-walk-Lake Forest
Tuesday-walk-Woodbridge
Wednesday-None
Thursday-walk-Shady Canyon
Friday-None
Saturday-urban walk-Pasadena-Eagle Rock

A new chapter in our lives

Mari starts a new job on Monday in Los Angeles, which will mean, I have to get her to the train by 6 a.m. and she will be getting home about 6 p.m.  This will change many things in our lives, plus I will be looking for a part time job.

Sunday-I am learning I can probably get up after about 7 hours of sleep.  I did get up about 6:30 this morning.
Weight was within range.
Exercise-Some home exercise and a 4 mile hike.  I wanted to challenge myself on Peters Canyon to see if I could go out and back and I did it.
Breakfast-Goat yogurt with a banana and blueberries, toast with almond butter and turkey bacon.  Herb tea.
Snack-trail mix
Lunch, turkey burger with cheese and lettuce and a tortilla
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-chicken with broccoli and mushroom risotto and frozen yogurt
Water
Words/Feelings-challenge myself, blah-I feel like I have no feeling about Mari starting work, even though it will be a change.  Trying to act as if, when I have no feeling.  Need to spread my wings on things I do.
Turned off the light around 9:45, but felt like I was awake every two hours.  I was not worried about waking up on time, but had to use the bathroom a lot and the scale reflected that.

Monday-woke up before the alarm at 5:15, but stayed in bed until the alarm went off.
Weight was within range.
Exercise-some home exercise and a very small walk that was supposed to be longer, but the rain hit.
Breakfast, Eggs, Spinach and bell peppers with Ezekiel Bread with Almond Butter and turkey bacon. Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Chicken salad
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Chicken burrito and frozen yogurt
Water-Herb tea
Words/Feelings-Tired from getting up early, frustrated from Rory's irresponsible use of money, frustrated without a phone, thankful for being able to get a new phone.  Feeling scattered from having to redo the new phone.
Turned off the light around 9:45 p.m.  Good nights sleep!

Tuesday-woke up about 4:45, but went back to sleep until the alarm went off!
Weight was within range.
Exercise-Home exercise, no walk due to rain
Breakfast-Quiche and turkey bacon with herb tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-egg burrito and a hot chocolate with peppermint.
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-salmon with rice and veggies and yogurt with M&M's
Water-Herb tea
Words/Feelings-feeling positive today, maybe I am going to like getting up at 5:15 and getting going with my day, as long as I get a good nights sleep, it is  feeling good getting things done, feeling frustrated that I have to deal with things that Rory starts and I know more about and I have to deal with the phone calls that he makes.  This interrupts my getting other things done. Frustrated with Rory and his dealing with finances.  I need to be strong and not give in to what I have given into in the past.  I am tired of constantly arguing with him.  It is exhausting.
Turned off the light around 10 and had a hard time turning my head off!

Wednesday-did not have the greatest night's sleep and did get up at 5:15
Weight was within range.
Exercise-Home exercise.
Breakfast-Eggs with Vegetables and Ezekiel bread and almond butter with turkey bacon
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-chicken salad
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-shrimp with diced tomatoes, mushrooms and rice and frozen yogurt
Water-Herb tea
Words/Feelings-feeling tired today, as I had a hard time shutting my head off during the night.  Feeling good, as I am getting things accomplished.  In order to move forward, I need to do something, which I am going to do!  Has anything really changed with Rory and finances? NO! Frustrated at home, more positive, when I am out doing errands and out with other people.  Had small group last night, which was nice and then stopped for frozen yogurt on the way home with Mari.
Turned off the light around 10:30

Thursday-had a good night's sleep and got up at 5:15.
Weight was within range.
Exercise-A 5.5 mile walk and home exercise
Breakfast-Oatmeal with bananas and blueberries and turkey bacon.
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-shrimp salad
Snack-Trail Mix
Dinner-Chicken with basil pesto, rice and vegetables, frozen yogurt
Water-Herb Tea
Words/Feelings-nice to see the sun out.  Need to keep my mouth shut and just try to get along.  Feels good getting things done. Felt really good getting out and hiking and being with friends.

Friday-had a good night's sleep and got up at 5:15.
Weight was within range and the lowest I have been in a long time
Exercise-5.84 mile walk
Breakfast-Eggs with spinach and onion, turkey bacon, Ezekiel Bread and almond butter
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Out-Patty Melt with Blood Red Lemonade
Snack-Trail Mix and Milk Shake
Dinner-Chili Mac
Water-Herb Tea
Words/Feelings-enjoyable to get out and explore.  I can always eat something with too much salt and it is usually when I eat out.  Feeling achy in my knees and hips.  I wish people would keep their dogs on a leash.  Going to LA and pushing to get out the door. Enjoying spending time with my daughter and a friend.  Rory has no respect for me and only thinks about himself.  Thankful I was able to let go of a discussion/argument we had and be able to rest

Saturday-had a good night's sleep and got up at 6, as we are going back to LA and have to be on the train at 9.
Weight was within range.
Exercise-4 mile walk
Breakfast-Eggs with bell peppers and onion, turkey bacon, Ezekiel Bread and almond butter
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-out-Argentinian Food
Snack-Trail Mix and Milk Shake
Dinner-Out
Water-Herb Tea and Coffee
Words/Feelings-Pushing to get out the door, but looking forward to exploring LA with friends.  Tired. Being with friends makes life at home easier to deal with.

DINNER MENU
Sunday-Pho Soup
Monday-Chicken Pesto with mushroom and rice
Tuesday-Chicken Tiki masala
Wednesday-Orange Chicken
Thursday-Turkey, mushrooms and rice
Friday-Chicken Fajitas
Saturday-Salmon

WALK/HIKE
Sunday-walk
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-None
Thursday-hike
Friday-walk
Saturday-hike

2016 is the year of "I can"

2015 was the year of losing weight and now 2016 is the year of "I can".  I am tired of being fearful and feeling stuck.  After the first of the year, I am going to find a part time job.

Sunday-I was getting tired of the bed and got up around 6:30 a.m.  Weight was slightly down. Did some of my home exercises and did some dancing at a party.  Stayed mainly on track with food, except for dinner, when I gave myself permission to enjoy.  Went to bed around midnight.

Monday-Got up around 6:30, as Rory was up and about.  I am not sure if I could have slept much more.  Weight is at the upper end of my goal range and for the next three days, I will be back on track. Food today was on track, even though we went out for lunch.  We went to Veggie Grill and I had a grilled chicken sandwich without sides.  I did some of my home exercises and did a 3.4 mile walk.  I did get a nap, as I really needed it.  Turned off the light at 10:30.

Tuesday-Got up at 6:30, which gave me 8 hours of sleep, but still felt tired.  45 minute nap as well
Weight was within normal range.
Exercise-4.96 mile walk and one home exercise
Breakfast-Goat milk yogurt with blueberries and bananas, Ezekiel bread with almond butter, turkey bacon and tea.
Lunch-chicken salad and chai tea
Dinner-Orange chicken with chow mein and a cookie
Water-46 oz water
Words of the day:  frustration, that someone can't do things for himself, when I know he can, enjoyment of being with friends,  relaxed at not being on a time schedule
Turned off the light at 11:30

Wednesday-Got up at 6:50, which gave me a little over 7 hours of sleep. Naps are nice and I did get one.
Weight was within normal range
Breakfast-eggs with spinach, onion and cheese, Ezekiel Bread with almond butter
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-Shrimp salad, a tangerine and an Iced Caramel Macchiato.
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Shrimp, broccoli and macaroni and cheese and yogurt with M&M's
Water-46 ounces and herbal tea
Home exercises-Arm circles, wall sits
Words/Feelings for the day-Relieved as Rory is gone for 5 days, frustrated, as Rory has to call and tell me all the news reports of where certain locations are supposedly going to be blown up on New Years Eve, and wanting to get to doing errands faster than others want to get going.   Accomplished-we got Christmas decorations taken down.  Peacefulness-quiet in the house, with no TV.  Not wanting  for this day to end.
Turned off the light around 10.  Tried to do some reading and fell asleep.

Thursday-Actually set the alarm and got up at 6, as we had to be out the door around 8 for a hike.  I did get 8 hours of sleep, which was nice.  I also got a nap, as we hiked 10 miles today.
Weight was within normal range.
Breakfast-eggs with cheese and cut up vegetables, Ezekiel Bread with almond butter.
Snack-trail mix along the hike
Lunch-turkey sandwich and cranberry sauce
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Enchiladas Rancheros with chicken and rice and chips with salsa and guacamole
Water-46 oz+ and Herbal tea
10 mile hike
Words/Feelings for the day-Nervous regarding the hike, as there are no bathrooms along the hike; happy that I did the 10 mile hike, relaxed, as it is nice to come home to a peaceful house and excited to be going out with friends for New Years Eve. New Years Eve was fun and I was surprised at how well I bowled.
Turned off the light around 1:30 a.m.

Friday-Happy New Year's!  Got up about 7:30.  I, only got 6 hours of sleep, so I know there will be naps today. I took a two hour nap.
Weight was within normal range and today, I will be staying on food plan.
Breakfast-oatmeal with blueberries and bananas and turkey bacon
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-half a turkey meat loaf sandwich with cheese and lettuce and a tangerine
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Chicken, couscous and vegetables and frozen yogurt
Water and herb tea
No hiking today, did some home exercises.
Words/Feelings for the day:  Enjoying a quiet house. Tired-time for nap-thankful I could listen to Rory, but not have to put up with him on a 24/7 basis. Thankful for friendships and my daughters.  Scattered and tired.  Need to not get upset with myself, when I don't get things done.
Turned off the light around 9:30 p.m.

Saturday-got up at 6, as I have a hike this morning.  Did take a nap.
Weight was within normal range and I plan to stay on plan.  Lunch was out and I had a chicken bowl. Happy with the choice.
Breakfast-Grape Nuts with blueberries and bananas and turkey bacon with herb tea
Snack-trail mix
Lunch-chicken bowl with a couple of chips and hibiscus aqua fresca
Snack-trail mix
Dinner-Turkey with rice and vegetables and yogurt with M&M's
Did a 4 mile hike and some home exercises.
Words/Feelings for the day:  Frustrated with my phone.  Thought I was going to have to get a new phone, but the battery charged while we were gone on a hike.(?)  Thankful for friendships.  I am going to make a list of projects I want/need to get done.  Feel like I waste time on the computer.  People tell me I am strong, but I don't feel strong! Tired! I feel less scattered, as I made a list of different things, I want to do projects around the house, in regards to financial, reading and my hiking.
Turned off the light around 10:15 p.m.

DINNER MENU

Sunday-Chicken, Broccoli, and Mushroom Risotto
Monday-Chicken Burrits
Tuesday-Fish
Wednesday-Shrimp, diced tomatoes, mushrooms and rice
Thursday-Rosemary Chicken
Friday-Chili Mac
Saturday-Out

HIKES/WALKS

Sunday-Hike in Peters Canyon
Monday-Walk in Rancho Santa Margarita
Tuesday-Walk in Turtle Rock(possible rain)
Wednesday-None
Thursday-Hike in Shady Canyon(possible rain)
Friday-None, but possible
Saturday-Exploratory walk in Los Angeles

The holidays and eating out and being kind to yourself

Sunday-was up early at 6:30, considering I got to bed at 1 a.m.  Took two naps.  Weight was slightly down.  Stayed on track with food and got a 5 mile walk.  Turned off the light about 10, as I was tired.

Monday-got up at 6:30, which seems to be a normal time for me.  Keeping the weight within range.  Stayed on track with food and got my normal Monday night walk of 4 miles.  Turned off the light around 11.

Tuesday-woke up about 6:20, but it was very dark due to the rain and I stayed in bed until about 6:30.  Weight is being within the upper part of my goal range.  Tonight I know I am eating out.  The days I eat at home, I am really trying to stay on a normal food plan.  I am allowing myself some of the foods of the season, but not overdoing it.  That is something I have learned on this journey is to not deny myself certain things, but within moderation. Breakfast, lunch and snacks were on track.  Something in breakfast did not agree with me.  I made wise choices with dinner and it was a fun evening out.  Did my home exercises, but no walk due to the rain.  Turned off the light around 11.

Wednesday-woke up around 6:10 and finally got up around 6:40.  Weight was down a pound.  Today should be on track. I did my home exercises, but no walk/hike.  Mainly doing errands today and the girls and I did go out for lunch and I did have a salad.  Went to service for Christmas Eve, which was really nice and Mari and I got frozen yogurt after the service.  Went to bed around 11.

Thursday-I was up early as I have to be out the door around 7:30 to get to a hike at 8 a.m.  Weight is being in range.  Did some of my home exercises and did do a hike.  Where we went hiking was a new area for me and I had some fear regarding the hike, but I did it and I am proud of myself.  A group of us went out for brunch after the hike.  The rest of the day was home.  Went to bed around 9:45.

Friday-Merry Christmas-I was up around 6:20. Stayed on track with food.  Weight was slightly up, but within the healthy range.  Did a walk today, which felt good.  Other than the walk, mainly stayed home.  Went to bed around 9:45 p.m.  Marissa was struggling with sore muscles and anxiety and I always feel like I am walking on egg shells on holidays especially with Rory.  I am glad when holidays are over.

Saturday-Up early, as we are going on the train to Los Angeles.  Weight was slightly up, but within the healthy range.  Walked about 8 miles, between the Secret Stairs walk and all the rest of the walking we did.  In regards to food, I made wise choices, as lunch and dinner were out. Went to bed around 9:45.

DINNER MENU

Sunday-out
Monday-Lemon Paprika Chicken
Tuesday-Orange Chicken with Chow Mein
Wednesday-Shrimp with Macaroni and Cheese with veggies
Thursday-out
Friday-Chicken with Couscous and veggies
Saturday-Turkey and broccoli with rice

EXERCISES

Sunday-None
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-None
Thursday-Hike
Friday-None
Saturday-hike

Maintaining

Since I hit my goal weight last week, now my life will be about maintaining this weight.  I really plan to keep it around my goal weight, as I have worked too hard to gain the weight back and my life has become a new life style of eating healthy and exercise and I am enjoying it.

Sunday-I was up early at 5:30, as I have to be out the door by 7:30, so we can be in San Diego by 9.  My weight was up.  Breakfast was on track, as well as snacks and dinner.  A group of us went out to lunch and I don't know that I made the most wise choice.  We did about a 6 mile hike, which was really enjoyable and I am really finding I enjoy exploring different areas and being out in nature.  It was a long, enjoyable day and I turned off the light around 9:45.

Monday-a start to a new week and back to healthy eating.  Rory was awake about 4 and was having difficulty breathing because of the moisture in the air.  The a/c went back on.  I was up at 6:20.  The weight is still up, but I am going to be back to more eating at home.  Food was on track today.  I had breakfast and snacks and dinner according to plan and went to Veggie Grill for lunch and made wise choices.  Did home exercises and did a 4 mile walk.  Turned off the light around 6:20.

Tuesday-I had a lot on my head during the night, as we found out that Mari got a job, which is exciting, but will change our current life.  Got up around 6:30 and my weight was down, which I was happy about.  Stayed on track today, even though I was tempted at lunch to go out, as we were out doing some errands and lunch was late.  Note to self: bring fruit along, if I know lunch is going to be late, then I am not tempted.  Did home exercises and did a 4 mile walk.  Turned off the light around 11:30.

Wednesday-Rory was up around 6:15, which woke me up and evidently he is dealing with a sore throat.  Great!  NOT!  We don't need a cold around our house.  Weight is down again.  I am going out to dinner tonight with my small group and I need to make wise choices.  I did stay on track with most of my food during the day.  With dinner, I had planned to have one thing and ended up having something else.  This is a restaurant, I would not go back to.  I had to take my car in for service, so while the car was being serviced, I took a walk.  Light went out around 11.

Thursday-I was able to sleep until about 6:30.  Weight was slightly up.  My goal, now that I have made my goal weight is to keep my weight between 170-175. Stayed on track with food today.  Overall the last few months, I have been reading about empaths, which I know I am and how they have a tendency to have relationships with narcissists, which is Rory and now I have been listening to a podcast about tendencies and I am an obliger with a rebel tendency, which is a war that goes on in my head.  According to this podcast, obligers usually have relationships with rebels, which is my husband. Interesting how, even though we have a lousy marriage and I would prefer not to be in this marriage, this is the person, with my personality, I was supposed to have married.  Knowing this helps, but I still do not want to be in this marriage, as I am more his caretaker, than his wife.  Did my home exercises and got in a walk of approximately 5+ miles.  Turned off the light about 11:15.

Friday-Slept until about 6:30.  Weight was within my goal range. A friend of mine wanted to go hiking and we had decided to go to Torrey Pines in San Diego.  We had lunch before we went hiking. I was hurting from my waist down from walking at Shady Canyon on Thursday.  Question to those of you who hike/walk on a regular basis-should you have a meal before or after you eat?  When we got to Torrey Pines, we found out we could not walk on the beach, which I was looking forward to doing.  I made a good choice at lunch, but on the way home, we stopped at a coffee place, I like and I did not make a great choice.  Had dinner slightly later than normal.  We probably did a 4 mile walk, but my phone was causing me issues, so I am not sure.  I was very tired by the time I got home and ended up going to bed between 10:30 and 11.

Saturday-Got up early at 6 p.m., as I had to get to hike at 9 in Fullerton and we had to leave at 8 a.m. to get to Fullerton on time.  My weight was up, but the weight is still within maintenance.  We did a 5 mile hike, but it was not at a very fast speed.  Got sandwiches from Jersey Mikes and milk tea from 85 degrees on the way home.  Went to a birthday party on Saturday night and made wise choices, but allowed myself some leeway.  Fun evening and it was late to bed- 1 a.m.

DINNER MENU

Sunday-Chicken with sauce, rice and veggies
Monday-Spinach, chicken, mushroom quesadilla
Tuesday-out
Wednesday-Buffalo chicken with rice and vegetables
Thursday-Pesto chicken
Friday-Christmas
Saturday-out

EXERCISE

Sunday-walk
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk?-due to rain
Wednesday-None
Thursday-Hike
Friday-Walk
Saturday-walk

Routine and having fun with friends-made goal this week

Another week is starting and I am happy in that my weight is staying relatively the same.I really would like to hit my goal of 173, but if this is where my body wants to be of between 175-177, I will be happy.  I will continue to walk/hike and eat healthy.

Sunday-woke up around 6:45 a.m. and my weight is the same as Saturday.  Breakfast, snacks and lunch were on track.  I had planned to go out to dinner with friends after a 5 mile hike and I made good choices of fish tacos.  Did some of my home exercises.  Turned off the light at 10:30.

Monday-woke up around 6:30.  I was tired of the bed.  Weight is down. Breakfast, snacks and dinner were according to plan.  Lunch was the way I planned it, which was from Starbucks.  Did some of my home exercises and went for a 3.5 mile walk, which is one of my normal Monday night walks.  Turned off the light around 10:40.

Tuesday-woke up around 6:30.  Weight is down.  Food was on track today.  Did my home exercises and a walk of almost 5 miles, which is one of my normal Tuesday night hikes.  Turned off the light around 10:40.

Wednesday-woke up around 6:20.  Weight is down and I have one more pound to go to reach goal. Food was on track today.  Did some of my home exercises and did a 5+ mile hike.  This was an exploratory hike.  Turned off the light about 10:30.

Thursday-woke up around 6:30 and I have made goal.  I don't feel any different, but I am happy I have accomplished something that I really wanted to do.   There were times, I was going to give up and just accept where I was, but I did it and I am proud of myself.   I have lost 70 pounds and I plan to keep it off.  To lose weight takes work, but to keep it off, also takes work. I stayed on track with food today.  Did some of my home exercises and did my usual Thursday night hike.  Turned off the light around 11:30.

Friday-I was not really ready to get up, but Rory was at 6:25.  The weight is still continuing down and I have definitely made my goal.  Today is a down day.  Stayed on food plan today, which included dinner out.  Home exercise was done today.  Turned off the light around 11.

Saturday-I had some problems sleeping, as we had turned off the air conditioning and my mouth was dry.  I did get up around 6:30.  The weight was up, but I expected that and I am still at goal.  Now my plan is to stay within a couple of pounds of goal. Saturdays are field trip days, which is what Mari and I did.  Mari and I took the train up to Los Angeles to The Broad, which is a modern art museum. We had lunch at a restaurant next to The Broad, which was enjoyable.  I try to make wise choices when we go out.  We got coffee/tea from Starbucks and a snack.  Dinner was at home and the light was turned off at 9:45.  Exercise for today was mainly walking in downtown Los Angeles.

DINNER MENU FOR THIS WEEK

This is mainly going to be a week of leftovers and clearing out the refrigerator.

Sunday-Chicken burritos
Monday-Eggs and fishcakes
Tuesday-Fish sticks with rice and vegetables
Wednesday-out with my Bible Study group
Thursday-Fish with rice and vegetables
Friday-Turkey burger
Saturday-out with friends

EXERCISE

Sunday-hike of 6.5 miles
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-walk
Thursday-walk
Friday-none
Saturday-hike

The holidays are upon us

The holidays are upon us and this time of year makes me nervous, as I am leary of all the get togethers and the food.  I know I have made wise choices and I plan to continue to do that and keep the weight off.  There is more to this season than food, so I plan to get out and enjoy!


Sunday-woke up around 6:30.  Did not have the best night sleep, as I ended up working on a project that I should not have started that late at night.  Oh well, I did it.  I will get a nap today.  Weight down slightly.  Doing a hike later today.  Stayed on track with food.  It is peaceful around the house today.  Did some of my home exercises.  Turned off the light around 10:30 p.m

Monday-woke up around 6:30.  It was so nice to wake up to peacefulness!  Weight is down. Stayed on track with food today.  Did some of my home exercises and got a walk tonight.  Turned off the light around 11 p.m.

Tuesday-Actually slept in till 7:30, which was nice.  Weight is down. Stayed on track with food today.  Did some of my home exercises and got a walk tonight. My walking friends are awesome, in that they positively reinforce my weight loss and I love it! Turned off the light around 11:30 p.m.

Wednesday-Back to routine-got up around 6:15 p.m.  Weight stayed the same. Stayed on track with for today. Did some of my home exercises.  Went to bed around 10:30.

Thursday-Got up around 6:15.  Weight is up slightly.  I went with Mari to downtown Los Angeles for an interview she had.  Overall, I stayed on food plan, except for one thing.  Today, was a lot of walking.  I did my hike in Shady Canyon and I tripped over a curb.  I did too much walking today.   Went to bed around 11:30.

Friday-Got up around 6:30.  Weight up slightly.  Today is a rest day.  Overall, I stayed on track, except for a vegetarian pizza.  Did some home exercises, but mainly rested my legs.  Went to bed at 10, but was falling asleep before that.

Saturday-Got up around 6:15.  Weight down slightly.  Breakfast and snacks were on track, but lunch and dinner were not, but I expected that.  Made wise choices.  Did some of my home exercises and got in a 6 mile hike.  My legs feel better today.  Went to bed around 11:30.

DINNERS FOR THIS WEEK

Sunday-Out
Monday-Chicken, Spinach, Feta and Rice
Tuesday-Chicken, Mushroom, Diced Tomatoes and Rice
Wednesday-Salmon
Thursday-Turkey burgers
Friday-out
Saturday-Tilapia with rice and vegetables

EXERCISES

Sunday-Hike
Monday-Walk
Tuesday-Walk
Wednesday-None
Thursday-Walk
Friday-None
Saturday-None-Walking, as Mari and I are going to The Broad

Inspiration

Losing weight has really helped me and I really feel like I have been an inspiration to others, due to the comments I have gotten.

Sunday-Woke up about 6:45.  It was nice to sleep in somewhat!  Weight is down from yesterday.  This week will be more eating at home.  Thank goodness! Food was on track today.  Did some of my home exercises and did a hike.  Turned off the light around 11:10, as I was trying to accomplish something.

Monday-Woke up around 6:15 and I was getting tired of the bed.  Weight is about the same.  Overall stayed on track today with the exception of lunch, but the choice was not bad.  Did some of my home exercises and did my walk.  My frustration is building, as I am getting things done, but not home stuff that I want to get done.  Turned off the light around 11.

Tuesday-Woke up around 6:15.  I was getting to the point I was uncomfortable in bed.  Weight has dropped. Stayed on track today with food.  Did get some of my home exercises done and did my walk.  Frustration and tiredness played a part in this morning, but getting a nap and doing my walk helped a lot.  Turned off the light a little before midnight.

Wednesday-Woke up around 6:35.  Weight dropped slightly.  Today is a resting day.  Stayed on track with food today.  Did my home exercises and no walk was planned.  Today was very enjoyable and I got things done, which I like.  Turned off the light a little after 10.

Thursday-Turkey day- woke up around 6:15, as I have to be out the door by 8:30 to go for a hike.  Weight was the same as Tuesday.  I get a little nervous with the holidays, as I am concerned about overeating. Some home exercises and a walk.  Did go out for lunch.  After the walk and lunch, came home and spent the rest of the day at home.  Made wise choices with dinner.  Turned off the light around 10ish.

Friday-Got up around 6:15, thinking we were doing a hike in Pasadena, but it was raining, so the group of us decided to cancel and we ended up doing a walk, which was very enjoyable.  My weight was down slightly.  Did some of my home exercises and a walk.  Food was on track, except for lunch, as we went out and I did make wise choices.  Turned off the light around 10ish.

Saturday-Got up around 5:30, as I had to catch a train at 8:30, which meant being out the door at 7:30.  The weight was up slightly.  I did not do any home exercise, but did do a long walk around San Diego.  Did have lunch out, but the rest of the day was on schedule.  Totally enjoyable day with friends and my daughters.  Went to bed around 11:30, as I got caught up in a project, which I should not have done.

DINNER MENU FOR THE WEEK

Sunday-Out
Monday-Cashew Chicken
Tuesday-Salmon
Wednesday-Shrimp, Rice and Broccoli
Thursday-Chicken, Rice and Veggies
Friday-Grilled cheese and turkey sandwich
Saturday-Mac N' Cheese with Chili

EXERCISE

Sunday-hike
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-off
Thursday-walk
Friday-off
Saturday-hike

Wise choices

Right now, I am bound and determined to get down to my goal weight or what is a healthy weight for me, so I am having to make wise choices, when we go out.  I am not going to give up eating out.  This next week, I will really have to make wise choices, as I am going out several nights.

Sunday-Got up around 6:15.  My weight is down and I have two pounds to go to get to goal.  This is a goal that I want to accomplish.  Stayed no track with food today, but need to more work on the water and not the coffee/tea drinks.  Had one more tea drink than I should have had.  Did some of my home exercises, but no hike, as they kept predicting rain.  Overall a quiet day.  Turned off the light around 10.

Monday-Got up around 6:30.  I was awake around 5 and my mind was racing, which is typical lately for that time of the morning.  The weight was slightly up. I did keep on track with food today and focused more on the water.  Did my home exercises and did get a walk.  Good day overall.  Turned off the light around 10:50.

Tuesday-Got up around 6:30.  My legs were bothering me quite a bit of the night and I did not have a racing mind at 5 a.m. The weight was down.  Overall, I stayed on track.  We went out for lunch and I had a salad.  Did my home exercises and I did get a walk.  My ham string  really hurt during  the walk.  The morning was good, but I went into a blue funk in the afternoon.  Walking and being with friends in the evening helped a lot.  Turned off the light around 10:50.

Wednesday-Got up around 6:15.  Legs not bothering me and no racing mind.  The weight was up slightly. Dinner was planned to be pizza from Blaze Pizza, but it ended up being half the pizza for lunch and half the pizza for dinner.  The pizza was 790 calories total.  I did do my home exercises and I did get my walk.  No pain in my ham string.  Better mood today and the light went off around 10:50.

Thursday-Got up around 6:15.  Weight was up slightly, which was not a surprise.  Legs not bothering me and no racing mind, just got tired of being in bed around 5 a.m. Breakfast, snacks and dinner were according to plan.  I went out with a friend for lunch and made a wise choice and that is the most important thing.  I did do my home exercises and did do my usual Thursday night walk.  Had fun with my hiking group and then came home and Rory decided to unload on me of everything negative that is going on in the world and who he is as a controller.  Not fun and it made me get to bed late.  Constant frustration is not fun to live with.  Turned off the light at 11:50.

Friday-Got up around 6:15. Weight up again.  I like eating out, but I will be glad to do more eating at home.  By 6:15, I was getting tired of the bed.  I am really working at being positive and not complaining. Did some of my home exercises and did a very short walk.  Ate according to plan.  Had one thing off plan.  There is one thing at Starbucks that I am going to have to really watch my intake of over the holidays.  Dinner was out and I could have made wiser choices, but I am not going to beat myself up over my decisions.  Enjoyable evening out and then came home to more negativity.  Turned off the light again at 11:50.

Saturday-Got up around 6:15.  Weight up again.  This morning was a push morning to get out the door.  Breakfast and snacks were on track and lunch and dinner were out.  No home exercises, but did about 8 miles of walking, including lots of stairs.  Came home and went to bed and had to listen to more of Rory's rantings.  Very exhausting and frustrating.  Turned off the light about 10:50.

DINNER MENU

Sunday-Chicken with rice, zucchini, diced tomatoes and lemon
Monday-Bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwiches
Tuesday-Chicken with pepper, onions and rice
Wednesday-Chicken burritos
Thursday-Thanksgiving-turkey-sweet potatoes, vegetables, cranberry sauce and a piece of pie
Friday-Turkey salad with dried cranberries and feta
Saturday-Curried chicken

EXERCISES

Sunday-hike
Monday-two walks
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-walk
Thursday-walk
Friday-hike
Saturday-walk

Eating out vs. eating at home

For those who are really trying to lose weight, do you find that eating out puts on the weight, more than eating at home?  I feel like whenever, I make wise choices and eat out, my weight will still go up slightly, more than when I eat at home.

Sunday-got up around 6:20, as I am really trying to work at getting 8 hours of sleep.  I do get up a couple of times a night.  My weight was up, but I expected that after yesterday. Did get some of my home exercises accomplished and did get a hike done.  Social wise, it was a good day.  Ate dinner too late last night and went to bed at 10:50.

Monday-got up around 6:15.  My weight was up!   Heard a message at church yesterday on values.  With this weight loss, I need to stick it out to the finish line.  This is a goal that I want to accomplish and lately, I feel like, I have been sloppy.  Back on track.  It is fun to go out, but I need to limit it to one meal out on fun days.  One meal out on fun days will work sometimes and not on others and I need to be kind to myself.  Stayed on track with food today and did my home exercises, as well as getting a walk.  Turned off the light around 10:50.

Tuesday-got up around 6:25.  My weight is starting to go back down again.  We are going out to lunch with a friend, who is here from out of town and I am committing to having a salad for lunch. I stuck to my commitment and I had a salad and iced tea for lunch.  The rest of the day was on track.  Volunteering at The Pet Rescue Center, having lunch with my friend and doing my walk was the best part of the day.  I did some of my home exercises and I did get a walk.  Got a letter regarding our mortgage and had to figure that out.  Turned off the light around 11:20.

Wednesday-got up around 6:15, even though my head was going, regarding the increase in the mortgage payment, which did not make for a great night sleep.   I have figured it out and I am going to let it go.  The weight is down again. Stayed on track with food.  No walk, but I did get home exercises completed.  Turned off the light around 11.

Thursday-got up around 6:15.  The weight is down.  At Marissa's therapy appointment yesterday, we were talking about food for breakfast.  Karen, who is Marissa's therapist, gave us some ideas, which we are going to use.  Eggs with spinach and onions, Eggs with cut up vegetables, Ezekiel bread with almond butter and goat milk yogurt, as well as oatmeal. Mari and I are going to do this as well. Karen, also recommended that I look up low-carb breakfasts, which I have done.  Got all my home exercises done and got a walk done.  It was not my usual Thursday night walk, but it was enjoyable and I got to bed at 10 p.m.

Friday-Got up around 6:15.  The weight stayed the same.  We are starting our new breakfast routine this morning with goat yogurt with berries, Ezekiel bread and almond butter. Stayed on track with food today.  Did some of my home exercises and did get a walk.  Overall, a quiet day.  Went to bed at 10.

Saturday-Got up around 6:15.  The weight stayed the same.  Breakfast today is a frittata with Ezekiel Bread and almond butter. Had my normal snacks, but added on ice cream to my lunch/afternoon snack, which was a vegetable quiche with salad.  Dinner was on track.  Did one of my home exercises and a hike with a lot of stairs.  Good day overall!  Went to bed at 10.

DINNER MENU

Sunday-Mushrm Risotto with chicken and broccoli
Monday-Chili with Macaroni and Cheese
Tuesday Chicken with a Chicken Pot Pie Sauce and Rice and Veges
Wednesday-Pizza
Thursday-Vietnamese Food
Friday-Out
Saturday-out

EXERCISE

Sunday-Hike if it does not rain
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-walk
Thursday-walk
Friday-walk
Saturday-hike

Two months to lose 4 pounds-I can do it!

The month of October was a wash, as I stayed relatively the same.  My goal, recently, has been to hit normal weight, by the end of this year and I know I can do it.

Sunday-My weight was slightly down.  I did get up at 6:30, which was hard, as I was getting tired of the bed.  I enjoyed having the sun out, when I got up.  I do not like going to bed in the dark and getting up in the dark. Stayed on plan with food and I did some of my home exercises and did get a hike done.  Good day overall and I went to bed at 10:15.

Monday-my weight stayed about the same.  Got up about 6:00.  Was very ready to get up, as the sun was up and I was tired of the bed.  Stayed on track with food.  I got my home exercises done, but did not get a walk done, as we had rain.  Good day overall and I went to bed at 10:10.

Tuesday-my weight was slightly down.  I got up about 6:15. Stayed on track with food and got my home exercises done and a walk.  Dealt with some frustration with Rory and his health.  I was actually able to talk to him and have him hear me.  How long that will last, I don't know. It was a good day overall.  I was social and then, Rory wanted to talk, when I got home, so bed time was late. Turned off the light at 11:40.

Wednesday-my weight is continuing to go down.  Got up about 6:30. Stayed on track with food, got my home exercises done and a walk.  Accomplished much of my routine today and I am coming to realize that I need to be more positive than negative.  Yes, I live in a very negative household, which is mainly due to one person, who affects the rest of us.  Yes, I get very frustrated.  I was raised in a not positive atmosphere.  I cannot unload on all of my friends, as they get very tired of the negative.  I need to work on being positive and being the person I am, who, is a caring, doing, learning, planning and exploring person.  I did get a nap today and I turned off the light around 10:30.

Thursday-Got up around 6:15 and my weight is continuing to go down. Stayed on track with food, most of the day, except for lunch.  I did get a sandwich, which was not a bad choice.  I did my home exercises and did get a walk.  Accomplished my routine today and did get a nap.  Turned off the lights at 10:50.

Friday-Got up around 6:15 and my weight is slightly up.  My knees were hurting during the night, so my sleep was not the greatest.  I forgot to stretch after our walk last night. Food was on track today, did most of my home exercises and did get a walk.  Did get a nap.  Turned off the light about 10, as I knew I had to be up at 6 on Saturday.

Saturday-Got up at 6 and and my weight was about the same.  Except for breakfast and morning snack, did not follow food plan, as we were out.   My food and drink choices were not the best, but I enjoyed the day and I did do a 6 mile walk with approximately 1000 stairs. Very tired by the time I got home and turned off the light around 10:20.

DINNER MENU FOR THE WEEK

Sunday-Chicken Curry with rice and veggies
Monday-Burritos
Tuesday-Eggs, Bacon and Potatoes
Wednesday-Shrimp and Chimichurri Rice
Thursday-Broccoli, Mac N'Cheese and Chicken
Friday-Chili with turkey and sweet potato
Saturday-Balsamic chicken with green beans

EXERCISE

Sunday-Hike
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-walk
Thursday-walk
Friday-walk
Saturday-Hike

Realizing things

Realizations-never knew I could get addicted to hiking and being on dirt trails and out in nature.

Sunday-Rory woke me up about 6:45, by turning on the light.  I was really trying to sleep until 7, as I do not have to be someplace until 1.  It is our usual disagreement, that he wants to be up between 6 and 6:30 and I am trying to get 8 hours of sleep, when I can.   I am active, he is not.  I need the rest.  Weight was the same.  This was one of two issues we had today, but the rest of the day was good.  I really need to learn to keep my mouth shut with Rory.  I am going to accommodate him, by getting to bed at 11 and getting up at 6:30 a.m., which will overall, work for both of us.  All but dinner was on track and I did not make a bad choice with dinner.  Got to bed around midnight.

Monday-Woke up around 6, but did not get up until 6:30.  The weight was up.  This weekend was great and I need to get back to normal eating, which I am going to do today. It is hard to come down off a high, especially when you enjoy something.   I have been on track today and did get a nap for about 45 minutes.  Did a walk tonight and turned off the light at 10:50.

Tuesday-Got up around 6:30.  The weight is starting back down. Stayed on track with food today.  Did my home exercises and did a walk.  Did get a nap. Life is being normal.  Turned off the light at 10:30.

Wednesday-Got up around 6:30.  It felt good to sleep about 8 hours.  Weight is down.  Stayed on track with food today. Got some of my home exercises done today and did get a walk.  No nap today and Rory was not home tonight, which was more peaceful. I was doing my nighttime routine and I really wanted some music on.  I am wondering, if normally, I have so much noise, that I want quiet and really do not want music.  Turned off the light at 10:30.

Thursday-Got up around 6:30.  I could not turn my head off during the night.  There is a possibility that Mari might get a job today, as she has an interview and a reality check hit during the night.  Weight is down.  Food was on track, with the exception of a frappucino, while waiting for Mari at her interview. I have decided to keep track of what I spend for things during the month of November, so I can come up with some type of budget.  I did my home exercises and did do my usual Thursday night walk.  Turned off the light at 11:20.

Friday-Got up around 6:45.  Much better nights' sleep.  My weight is relatively the same. Stayed on track with food today.  I did do my home exercises and I did get a walk done.  Did take a nap!  Mainly an afternoon at home.  Turned off the light at 10:20.

Saturday-Got up around 6:15, as I had to be out the door at 8:45.  My weight is relatively the same.  Breakfast and snacks were on track.  Lunch and dinner were out and that was planned-made good choices.  Did have one piece of candy.  We were out all day, so no walk or exercises.  Turned off the light about 11 p.m., as this is my way of acclimating to the time change.  I was tired and it was hard to stay up that light.

DINNER MENU FOR THE NEXT WEEK

Sunday-Ribs, Potato Salad
Monday-Chicken Pesto with rice and vegetables
Tuesday-Lemon Chicken
Wednesday-Paprika Chicken
Thursday-Chicken Burritos
Friday-Chicken with dill and diced tomatoes
Saturday-out

EXERCISE

Sunday-hike
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-walk
Thursday-walk
Friday-walk
Saturday-walk

Confidence

I have felt myself slipping back on my hiking and I need to get the confidence back.

Sunday-Got up around 6:45.  The weight is down.  Stayed on track with food,  did home exercises and a walk.  Today was mainly home getting things done, which felt good, plus made some plans to go hiking with a friend.   Turned the light off about 10:50.

Monday-got up around 6:30.  The weight is slightly up. Stayed on track with food, did home exercises and did my Monday night walk.  Today was mainly home getting things done.  Turned off the light about 11:25.  Frustrations with Rory centered around him trying to plan Marissa's life and the job he thinks she should have at a lighthouse.

Tuesday-got up around 6:45.  The weight dropped.  Already having frustrations with Rory, as he is already talking about Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Stayed on track with food, did home exercises and did my Monday night walk.  Spent time with cats/kittens at The Pet Rescue Center and did my Tuesday night walk.  Turned off the light around 11:25.  Mari struggling with her health, her dad and finding a job.  When she is upset, it makes me sad.  I know she will eventually find a job.

Wednesday-got up around 6:15.  The weight was slightly up.  I have been planning to go back to school and get a certificate in event planning.  A friend of mine found an on line event planning course on Groupon for $5.  Something to ponder, should I do it on-line or actually go to school?  Did some research and found that the school I was planning to go to, most of the classes are online.  Food was on track and I did my home exercises and a walk.  Mari and I went to Bible Study last night and when we got home, Rory was angry.  He has been on medication for an ear infection and he was having side effects from the medication, plus withdrawal.  Trying to relax and get a restful night sleep is difficult when this happens.  Turned off the light around 11:45.

Thursday-not a restful night sleep.  Got up around 7.  The weight is down.  I stayed on track with food today.  Did my house exercises and a walk.  The day got better as time went on.  It is not fun to live, when you have to always watch what you say.  Mari went to do some volunteer work and I did some errands.  Did get a nap.  Turned off the light around 11:45.

Friday-much better sleep last night.  Got up around 7. My body is feeling the tenseness of what happened Wednesday night.  The weight is about the same. I stayed on track with food today, until dinner time, when a group of us went out for dinner.  I did make a relatively good choice. The day was good.  It is really nice to be out with friends.  Got to bed around 11:30.  I did my house exercises.

Saturday-got up around 6:30, although Rory woke me up around 6, thinking I had to get up that early.  I know he was trying to be kind. Weight was up, but I expected that.  Breakfast and morning snack was on track, but the rest of the day was not.  I did make good food choices and this was planned.  Did not do my home exercises, but did do a hike and it was a wonderful day.  Got to bed around 11.

DINNER MENU

Sunday-out
Monday-Buffalo Chicken with rice and veggies
Tuesday-Greek Chicken with rice and veggies
Wednesday-Pizza with chicken and zucchini and mushrooms
Thursday-Chicken Wings and Potato Salad
Friday-Fish tacos
Saturday-out

EXERCISES

Sunday-none
Monday-walk
Tuesday-walk
Wednesday-walk
Thursday-walk
Friday-walk
Saturday-none

Back to reality and a busy week

Rory got home on Friday and it is back to normalcy in regards to him.  The girls have appointments every day this week, with the exception of Friday.  I am dealing with his irresponsibility and non-realism with money.

Sunday-the weight is up.  Stayed on track with food today.  Did some of my home exercise.  Turned off the light around 11.

Monday-Got up around 6:30.  It is hard to get up early, when it is still dark outside.  The weight is slightly down.  Stayed on track with food today and had two walks, plus some of my home exercise.  Turned off the light around 11:25.

Tuesday-Got up around 6:30.  Had a hard time sleeping as my perfectionism is getting in the way of writing something.  Getting that done is going to be my number one priority today.  The weight is slightly down.  Overall, stayed on food plan.  I did my usual Tuesday night walk and then went to be social, which was nice.  Turned off the light about 12:10.

Wednesday-Rory is having an issue with his ear and woke me up early this morning.  I did finally get up around 6:30.  Weight is slowly going down.  Stayed on track with food today.  No walking/hiking, did home exercises.  I was feeling overwhelmed today.  Went to bed around 11.

Thursday-Woke up around 6:15.  My average sleep seems to be about 7 hours with a nap.  Weight is up slightly.  Marissa and I went to a new doctor for her and he is putting her on a food plan and going to adjust her meds.   The new food plan means a new food plan for Mari and I, as well.  The doctor wants her on a protein and vegetable diet, which means no cereal or dairy in the morning.  He is not concerned about the amount of eggs she has.  QUESTION-WHAT DO OTHER PEOPLE EAT FOR BREAKFAST THAT IS NOT CEREAL OR TOAST OR PANCAKES?  WE COULD USE SOME IDEAS FOR A PROTEIN, VEGETABLE AND FRUIT FOOD PLAN.  Did my normal Thursday night walk.  All but lunch was on track.  Went to bed around 11:25 p.m.

Friday-Woke up around 6:30.  Weight is up slightly.  Today, we are off for a weekend getaway.  No walking and a minimal amount of home exercise.  Breakfast and snacks were on track.  Lunch and dinner were out and made wise choices.  Went to bed around 10:50.

Saturday-Woke up around 6:30.  Could not check weight, as I am out of town.  I am trying to just enjoy and not thinking about food choices.  Had a late breakfast, as I took Mari to depart on the boat for her adventure and then came back and had breakfast with Marissa.  Marissa and I are going to Santa Barbara and go exploring and walking.  Checked out of the hotel and then headed for Santa Barbara.  Had lunch and took a walk and did some exploring and slowly worked ourselves back to Ventura.  It was fun seeing places, I had not seen before.  Had dinner with my group and then headed for home.  My definition of home has become wherever I am that day.  I wish this house could be someplace I could look forward to coming back to.  Got to bed around midnight, after unpacking the car and putting things away.

DINNER MENU FOR THE WEEK

Sunday-Chicken, vegetables, rice and walnuts
Monday-Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Tuesday-Chicken Fajitas
Wednesday-Chicken, pepper and mushroom risotto
Thursday-Thai Curry chicken with rice and vegetables
Friday-Garlic butter chicken  with rice and vegetables
Saturday-out

EXERCISE

Sunday-walk in Portola Hills
Monday-walk in Lake Forest
Tuesday-walk in Irvine
Wednesday-walk in Balboa
Thursday-walk in Irvine
Friday-None
Saturday-Hike in Julian

A continuing lifestyle of healthy eating and exercise

Sunday-Woke up at 6:30 and did my reading.  The weight is slightly up.  This should be a week of eating according to plan.  I did my house exercises and had a relaxing day and stayed on food plan.  Turned off the light around 10:20.

Monday-Woke up at 6:30 and did my reading.  I woke up at 4 a.m. and had a hard time getting back to sleep, but I eventually did, as I have been concerned about Mari and her respiratory issues.  The weight is back down.  I enjoy eating out, but it is also nice to stay on food plan.  I did get a walk.   Turned off the light about 10:25 p.m.

Tuesday-Woke up around 6:20 and did my reading.  Weight is about the same.  Stayed on food plan today and got in a 5 mile walk tonight.  Turned off the light about midnight, as I stayed to be social after my walk and when I got home, there was a phone call from Rory, that I felt warranted a call back.

Wednesday-Woke up around 7 and did my reading.  The weight dropped.  Stayed on food plan and did no walking, but did my home exercises.  Turned off the light about 11:20.

Thursday-Woke up around 6:20 and did my reading.  The weight was up.  Stayed on food plan and did my usual Thursday night walk and my home exercises.  Stayed after the walk for frozen yogurt and when I got home, another call from Rory, that I felt warranted a call back.  Turned off the light about 12:25.

Friday-Got up around 7 and did my reading.  The weight was down.  Stayed on food plan and did a walk and my home exercises.  Today is my last day of staycation.  Turned off the light about 11 p.m.

Saturday-Got up around 6:45 and did my reading.  The weight was down.  Stayed on food plan for breakfast, snack and dinner.  Went on a field trip and had lunch out, as well as some of my favorite ice cream.

DINNER MENU FOR THIS NEXT WEEK

Sunday-Chicken, Spinach, Rice and diced tomatoes
Monday-Homemade pizza
Tuesday-Eggs, Cheese and Zucchini and Brussel Sprouts
Wednesday-Chicken Wings, potato salad
Thursday-Sweet and Sour Chicken
Friday-Out
Saturday-Out

EXERCISES

Sunday-None
Monday-Walk
Tuesday-Walk
Wednesday-None
Thursday-Walk
Friday-Walk
Saturday-Walk