Weekend Update or Competing for the Gold

Greetings Friends~

Here it is Friday already and almost the start of a three-day weekend. Sweet.

First of all, I want to say how proud I am of Rene` for deciding to join a gym this week and then braving the throngs of fitness fanatics. Kudos!

If any of you read the recent Link of the Day, you saw that exercise is instrumental in decreasing blood sugar levels, and it doesn't just effect it as we work out, but continues to have an effect up to 72 hours. So, if I work out at least every third day, I can count on that being one more GOOD thing that I am doing which makes me healthier.

I have lost 50+ pounds so far but it is weird because I have a hard time seeing it. Don't get me wrong, my pants are smaller, my stomach isn't so pronounced and my face has one less chin. But, I have a hard time seeing it like others might because this is the face and body that I stare at every day in the mirror.

This week I met with a customer at work that I usually see about once a month. Most of his interest was not in how he should be submitting his reports. It actually was about my weight loss journey; how much had I lost, what foods am I eating and how often am I exercising? I have to say that it is nice to have others notice.

I have changed my workout up a little this week. I now have the strength and endurance to begin doing "training" programs on the elliptical instead of my regular "manual" program. I have been doing it for two days, and while it was scary at first because I wasn't sure if I was capable, I now find that the beginning level of "total body workout" is manageable. I am looking forward to working up the scale so that someday I can attain the highest level.

The other thing apparent is that I now have lots more energy. I have big plans for this three-day weekend and don't care if it rains or not; I'm going to shovel gravel into the mine field I call a driveway, finish (with Mrs B's help) the scotch broom removal in the small garden area, clean out the garage and pump house, and haul a load to the dump. This time last year I would have been looking forward to several naps to restore my energy level for the following week of work.

Small steps have gotten me to where I am today. I have a long ways to go yet on my journey to becoming half the man I once was, but not as far as I once did.

Inspiration of the Day

Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me. - Carol Burnett, 1936-present

Recipe of the Day

This is a vegetarian dish that has lots of potential. Feel free to read the reviews and add other items to the basic recipe for a fast, nutritious dinner entree. http://www.recipezaar.com/Spinach-Sauce-for-Pasta-74282

Today's Link

Breakfasts That Jump-start Your Brain

I hope you all have a great weekend. Since this is a three-day weekend, please get your weight to me no later than 5 pm on TUESDAY. The results for Week 9 will be posted on Wednesday.

My small step for today is to go to the gym after work and have a challenging workout. I still have a few pounds of New Orleans indulgences to shed.

Happy Trails!