On Sunday the 30th, I weighed in at 318 again. I wanted to go on an early bike ride, but I slept in. Instead, I went with my wife to Boulder and Pearl Street mall. I wanted to find something funny about vegans, but even Boulder's walking mall is all about tourists, pedestrian art, and BEER! Yes, I indulged at a micro-brewery. Cheri and I had their beer sampler as our appetizer. There was only one we didn't like. I had brochetta without cheese. It was great, but no exercise Sunday. Most obese people feel embarrassed, humiliated, discriminated upon, and generally depressed. Getting physically healthy is essential, but you really need to let your hair down and enjoy life. Don't let the ignorance of naturally skinny people stop you from living.
Monday the 31st was chore and pay the bills day. What would we do without online bill pay? Anyway, no time for a ride today, but I did help my friend Dave move some stuff up to his new apartment on the third floor. That has to count for something. I'll run up the hill Tuesday and see if they reopened the gym and the pool yet. My weight was 317 today. I might not hit my 15 pound goal, but I'll hit 13 or 14 pounds for August and that's just not too bad. Since November 2007, I've lost 140 pounds. No surgery and NO diet pills!
Briefly, as if I could be brief, I want to address Time magazine's August 17th's article on "The Myth About Exercise." In the article they talk about people doing heavy workouts and not losing weight. Duh. If you eat more to reward yourself for exercising you're not going to lose weight; you could even gain weight. The whole idea is to change your life to make yourself healthy. I love to workout as hard as I can because I love feeling fit, but I also follow a vegan diet and I still count calories. My change to the vegan diet isn't temporary and I will never let myself get so out of shape that I can't enjoy traveling and daily life. It's the whole picture baby; weight, healthy food, exercise, and happiness.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
August 29th, 2009 "White Whale"
I conquered my "white whale" ride today. It was fine for the first 20 miles or so and then I got to the rolling hills and finally to the hill I've been mapping out every time I pass it on the highway. If I started out with fresh legs at the foothills, I would probably be fine, but after 20 miles your legs keep peddling on auto-pilot. You just don't have as much mustard. That didn't stop me today. I did fine, but after I decompressed at home, I fell asleep for a short or long nap. I don't remember. It was only 30 miles, but it felt like 50. Especially because I just did 30 miles on Friday. Anyway, it's done and I'll do it again now that I know what to expect.
This morning I weighed in at 318, but, again, I'm not worried about hitting my August goal. If my butt can handle it, I'll try to ride 28 miles early in the morning to complete my 100 miles for the week. Before my ride I drank a mess load of water, ate a banana, and a power bar. I've found I have an easier time if I don't eat a lot before a ride or a swim. After my post white whale ride, I had some pita bread dipped in tomato sauce and a bit of nuts. For dinner, I had some salad with vinaigrette and a few noodles and some steamed spinach. I feel stuffed.
This morning I weighed in at 318, but, again, I'm not worried about hitting my August goal. If my butt can handle it, I'll try to ride 28 miles early in the morning to complete my 100 miles for the week. Before my ride I drank a mess load of water, ate a banana, and a power bar. I've found I have an easier time if I don't eat a lot before a ride or a swim. After my post white whale ride, I had some pita bread dipped in tomato sauce and a bit of nuts. For dinner, I had some salad with vinaigrette and a few noodles and some steamed spinach. I feel stuffed.
Friday, August 28, 2009
August 28th, 2009 "Last Day of Mixed Kids"
If you would have told me how much I would enjoy teaching kids from 4 to 12, I would not believed you. However, I have to say writing curriculum and teaching the kids for the summer "Mixed Kids" was one of the best experiences I've had. We had a great summer and I'm sad that it is over. I will, without a doubt volunteer next season. Tonight was really cool. I got there a little late which was okay because someone else was leading tonight's projects. When I walked into the main room, all of my kids jumped up from their reading circle and ran down the ramp and mauled me. We had a great time tonight and all I had to do was play with them and read a fable. They were very well behaved tonight. At the end of the evening, when the parents arrived, we all had our goodbyes and a few of them decided to "tag" me. According to Paris, I belong to her now. After all, she wrote her name on me twice. So did little Liv. I spoke to many of the parents and it was simply great. Here's a shout out to Paris, Liv, Grace, Claire, Owen, Charlie, Elizabeth, Isabella, Bella, Ella, Max, Max, Sam, Nicole, Mossimo, and Jackson. I left someone out...?
Today started out with a weigh in of 319 which is just fine because I was bloated again. I did go on a 30 mile bike ride with Woody and I hope to tackle my "white whale" in the morning. This particular route is only 40 miles or so, but it has some monstrous climbs that I avoided all summer. But, I did challenge myself to ride this route before the end of the summer so it is time to man up. I haven't done the rating system for a while. I'm alway vegan so I'm eating healthy everyday and my mental health has been great. I would give today a 4 out of 5 on the nutrition scale and a 5 on mental health. Till tomorrow...
Today started out with a weigh in of 319 which is just fine because I was bloated again. I did go on a 30 mile bike ride with Woody and I hope to tackle my "white whale" in the morning. This particular route is only 40 miles or so, but it has some monstrous climbs that I avoided all summer. But, I did challenge myself to ride this route before the end of the summer so it is time to man up. I haven't done the rating system for a while. I'm alway vegan so I'm eating healthy everyday and my mental health has been great. I would give today a 4 out of 5 on the nutrition scale and a 5 on mental health. Till tomorrow...
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Thursday August 27th 2009 Day Off
Today is Susie's birthday! I'm trying to make it as special as possible. Sent flowers to her office and I'm making a sort of special meal. We'll really celebrate her birthday this weekend.
This morning I weighed in at 317.6. Just 2.6 pounds from this months goal of 15 pounds. I have until Tuesday morning's weigh in. I didn't ride today because I didn't sleep well last night. I forgot to pick up one of my sleep aids and paid for it. Good sleep is essential for any diet and exercise routine. I tried to go to the gym to lift weights and play some basketball, but the gym is closed for a few days for maintenance, so I didn't do jack today. I don't like to disappear for too long on Cheri's day off, but I need a good sweaty ride tomorrow.
I just read in my Bicycling magazine that Green or black Tea, Soybeans or Tofu, Tuna or Salmon (nexaya on the fishaye), turmeric, and cherry's or berries are power foods to help build and speed the recovery of muscles. Cool! Except for the fish, I am good to go! In addition to a closely monitored diet, I have started alternating vitamin packs from "Green" to endurance. I'm sure my next blood draw will reveal startling good health except for the low platelet count.
This morning I weighed in at 317.6. Just 2.6 pounds from this months goal of 15 pounds. I have until Tuesday morning's weigh in. I didn't ride today because I didn't sleep well last night. I forgot to pick up one of my sleep aids and paid for it. Good sleep is essential for any diet and exercise routine. I tried to go to the gym to lift weights and play some basketball, but the gym is closed for a few days for maintenance, so I didn't do jack today. I don't like to disappear for too long on Cheri's day off, but I need a good sweaty ride tomorrow.
I just read in my Bicycling magazine that Green or black Tea, Soybeans or Tofu, Tuna or Salmon (nexaya on the fishaye), turmeric, and cherry's or berries are power foods to help build and speed the recovery of muscles. Cool! Except for the fish, I am good to go! In addition to a closely monitored diet, I have started alternating vitamin packs from "Green" to endurance. I'm sure my next blood draw will reveal startling good health except for the low platelet count.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
August 26th 2009 Bummer
I weighed in at 320 this morning. I rode 12 miles to my brother's house to get some school related software for my middle son with the intention of riding back. My brother and I went to a sushi lunch and had way too much hot sake.
I ate veggie tempura and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich today. Tomorrow morning I ride with my good friend Woody
I ate veggie tempura and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich today. Tomorrow morning I ride with my good friend Woody
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
August 25th, 2009 The Real Cost of Cheap Food
Now this what I've been talking about! You must read the new TIME magazine about "The Real Cost of Cheap Food." Follow this web link... http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1917458,00.html
Be sure to listen to the audio plug-in found on the left of the article. They say our diet has changed more in the last 50 years than it has for the last 10,000 years. We eat more meat now than ever in the history of man.
I weighed 321 this morning. I need to lose 6 pounds to meet my August goal. I'm sure I'll make it. I made some vegetarian pasta (just marinara) with some vegan zesty Italian sausage on the side. I didn't really like the sausage, but other family members liked it. Go figure. In addition, I found some sulfide free cab and red zin. The brand I found was only sold in Colorado and only found at selected wine stores. It's produced old school. Unfiltered with a real cork and dipped in wax to seal it. It may cost more, but it is unreal good. And, as we found, it really goes straight to your head, so you can't drink that much or you'll start slurring your words. Good stuff Manard!
Be sure to listen to the audio plug-in found on the left of the article. They say our diet has changed more in the last 50 years than it has for the last 10,000 years. We eat more meat now than ever in the history of man.
I weighed 321 this morning. I need to lose 6 pounds to meet my August goal. I'm sure I'll make it. I made some vegetarian pasta (just marinara) with some vegan zesty Italian sausage on the side. I didn't really like the sausage, but other family members liked it. Go figure. In addition, I found some sulfide free cab and red zin. The brand I found was only sold in Colorado and only found at selected wine stores. It's produced old school. Unfiltered with a real cork and dipped in wax to seal it. It may cost more, but it is unreal good. And, as we found, it really goes straight to your head, so you can't drink that much or you'll start slurring your words. Good stuff Manard!
Monday, August 24, 2009
August 24th, 2009 Home Sweet Home
I'm glad I went to Arkansas and I'm overjoyed to be back home. It was nice to visit with the hick side of the family. LOL. And it so fun watching Paisley jump and frolic with the energy and curiosity that can only come from a happy kitten. Thank y'all for the hospitality. LOL
I was only in Booneville for about 18 hours and I was profoundly moved and deeply saddened by the polarity between upper middle class and the impoverished. The small town literally went from GMC Denali's to kids with no shirts begging for basic school supplies in the span of one mile. If I had been there any longer, I would have ventured beyond the "good" side of town to witness true back woods poverty. I feel naive and sheltered from the realities of extreme poverty in America. Where are the celebrities plea's for the American families that have slipped through our social services? How can this be happening here? I had planned on writing more about my short trip, but I can't get, and I shouldn't get, this travesty off my mind. I have to do something; anything.
I was only in Booneville for about 18 hours and I was profoundly moved and deeply saddened by the polarity between upper middle class and the impoverished. The small town literally went from GMC Denali's to kids with no shirts begging for basic school supplies in the span of one mile. If I had been there any longer, I would have ventured beyond the "good" side of town to witness true back woods poverty. I feel naive and sheltered from the realities of extreme poverty in America. Where are the celebrities plea's for the American families that have slipped through our social services? How can this be happening here? I had planned on writing more about my short trip, but I can't get, and I shouldn't get, this travesty off my mind. I have to do something; anything.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
August 23rd 2009 Phone posts from Arkansas
Well, I tried to send posts from my cell phone as my brother-in-law and I were zipping down some back road in Kansas at 70 mph in a moving truck. I now see that my posts got sent in pieces and they don't make much sense. Lesson learned.
On Friday the 21st, I weighed in at 320. Since then I moved heavy furniture throughout Friday and Saturday, but did not ride or workout, however, judging by my copious amount of sweat, I think moving was an incredible workout followed by a 900 mile straight drive to Arkansas. I haven't slept since Friday, so cut me some slack if I ramble. The last sit down meal I had was Saturday night when I ordered pizza for the boys and a cheeseless vegetarian pizza for me. When I finally got around to eating there was only one piece left. My other dinner guests didn't even notice that they had eaten pizza without cheese. Since then, I have been either moving furniture or driving to Arkansas. I was doing fine munching on fruit and nuts, but then we went to Ihop for some real breakfast. I indulged with an order of banana nut pancakes with a drizzle of caramel. I ate about 1/4 of it and stopped. I could tell my body either didn't like the sweeetness or the probable eggs used to make the pancakes. I'm glad I stopped eating the pancakes because they did make make me feel awful. Took some more vitamins and returned to eating nuts and friut and drinking water and I started to feel better. I had a vegan sub for dinner in Booneville Arkansas. My sister-in -law was very sweet and bought me the sub. It's real important to have family support. And they all read this blog so I better not cheat. When I fly back to Denver tomorrow, I will check my weight, but I would be surprised if I weighed anything over 315. I feel good, but its time to settle down and find some real sleep. Staying awake for days is real easy for me if I don't take my night meds. Really, it's time to sleep. Good night and thank you for your kind words of encouragement and support. Rambling. Sorry.
On Friday the 21st, I weighed in at 320. Since then I moved heavy furniture throughout Friday and Saturday, but did not ride or workout, however, judging by my copious amount of sweat, I think moving was an incredible workout followed by a 900 mile straight drive to Arkansas. I haven't slept since Friday, so cut me some slack if I ramble. The last sit down meal I had was Saturday night when I ordered pizza for the boys and a cheeseless vegetarian pizza for me. When I finally got around to eating there was only one piece left. My other dinner guests didn't even notice that they had eaten pizza without cheese. Since then, I have been either moving furniture or driving to Arkansas. I was doing fine munching on fruit and nuts, but then we went to Ihop for some real breakfast. I indulged with an order of banana nut pancakes with a drizzle of caramel. I ate about 1/4 of it and stopped. I could tell my body either didn't like the sweeetness or the probable eggs used to make the pancakes. I'm glad I stopped eating the pancakes because they did make make me feel awful. Took some more vitamins and returned to eating nuts and friut and drinking water and I started to feel better. I had a vegan sub for dinner in Booneville Arkansas. My sister-in -law was very sweet and bought me the sub. It's real important to have family support. And they all read this blog so I better not cheat. When I fly back to Denver tomorrow, I will check my weight, but I would be surprised if I weighed anything over 315. I feel good, but its time to settle down and find some real sleep. Staying awake for days is real easy for me if I don't take my night meds. Really, it's time to sleep. Good night and thank you for your kind words of encouragement and support. Rambling. Sorry.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Combined Post August 19th and 20th, 2009
On Wednesday the day got away from me as I worked on a necessary home repair all day and night. On Wednesday, I weighed in at 325. I did pay for my potato indulgence from Tuesday.
On Thursday I weighed in at 324.2. I also rode a grueling 11 mile bike ride around Bear Creek Reservoir. My food quality and intake was better today. I also discovered that Noodles and Co has a wide variety of vegan dishes. I had a small bowl of real hot Thai noodles. Very good. Tomorrow will be dedicated to helping my brother-in-law move. I'm only at 49.05 miles on my bike so far this week, so I hope I can sneak in another 11 tomorrow morning. Must get to the gym soon.
On Thursday I weighed in at 324.2. I also rode a grueling 11 mile bike ride around Bear Creek Reservoir. My food quality and intake was better today. I also discovered that Noodles and Co has a wide variety of vegan dishes. I had a small bowl of real hot Thai noodles. Very good. Tomorrow will be dedicated to helping my brother-in-law move. I'm only at 49.05 miles on my bike so far this week, so I hope I can sneak in another 11 tomorrow morning. Must get to the gym soon.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Tuesday August 18th, 2009 - Waterton Canyon
This morning I weighed in at 324.2. Not bad. While I did ride up and down Waterton Canyon (14 miles), I also ate too much potatoes at dinner. We'll see what that does.
Today they took out my stitches and I started bleeding (remember; low platelets). I thought they were going to have to put them back in, but we put a pressure bandage on. Hopefully, it will be good to go in the morning.
I have to describe the Waterton Canyon ride. You start at the hogback (foothills) and quickly find yourself deep into the Rocky Mountains riding beside the beginning of the Platte River. This is the kind of park where they don't allow dogs because they will irritate the Big Horn Sheep. When fishing in this section of river, you can't use bait and you can only keep 2 fish as long as they are longer than 16". Yeah, it's that cool. The ride wasn't really that hard until you pass the big reservoir. Then it gets real steep. Overall, the most beautiful and peaceful ride I've had yet. In the near future, I am going to drive over the divide and ride around lake Dillon. That should also be a beautiful ride.
Today they took out my stitches and I started bleeding (remember; low platelets). I thought they were going to have to put them back in, but we put a pressure bandage on. Hopefully, it will be good to go in the morning.
I have to describe the Waterton Canyon ride. You start at the hogback (foothills) and quickly find yourself deep into the Rocky Mountains riding beside the beginning of the Platte River. This is the kind of park where they don't allow dogs because they will irritate the Big Horn Sheep. When fishing in this section of river, you can't use bait and you can only keep 2 fish as long as they are longer than 16". Yeah, it's that cool. The ride wasn't really that hard until you pass the big reservoir. Then it gets real steep. Overall, the most beautiful and peaceful ride I've had yet. In the near future, I am going to drive over the divide and ride around lake Dillon. That should also be a beautiful ride.
Monday, August 17, 2009
August 17th, 2009 - I love Mid-East food!
I do love Lebanese and Syrian food. I also really dig Moroccan food. It is so easy to be vegan with Mid-East food. I crave falafel and hummus. Yes, we had Lebanese for dinner. Happy tummy. Today's weigh in was satisfactory. It was 325.0. My winter clothes are hanging off me. Yeah!
I rode to my brother's house in old Littleton. Round trip was 24.3 miles. Tomorrow, Jeff, my middle son, is taking to ride Waterton Canyon. I've always wanted to make that ride, but I USED to be too out of shape. Must go; my favorite Showtime series' are starting.
I rode to my brother's house in old Littleton. Round trip was 24.3 miles. Tomorrow, Jeff, my middle son, is taking to ride Waterton Canyon. I've always wanted to make that ride, but I USED to be too out of shape. Must go; my favorite Showtime series' are starting.
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