Good Afternoon!
And what a pleasure to be writing again. Well, it's been a while, about 6 weeks, and I hope this note finds you well.
As the title states, Yoga agrees with me. However, I've learned that I have poor flexibility, less balance, and I sweated out toxins during the Saturday "Yoga Marathon" to such an extent that my brother surreptitiously unrolled all the windows when I got into his car. Sorry, Tom! Next time I'll shower after class. :)
It was a real treat to be tested in a new way. I've thought often and long about ways to fill my minutes, hours, days. I've been scared that too much "downtime" would lead to the self-destructive and harmful habits that have haunted me in the past. Saturday morning found me attempting to narrow my focus to concentrating on my breath, slow and steady, in and out. In the process, I made a connection. I'm not searching to fill my calendar. I'm searching for balance. Fear need not enter the equation.
Some residue from Saturday's class remains. No, not the oily sweat (ha ha, I've showered thrice since then), but a residue of calm, a vestige of the insight. Balance need merely be sought after, attempted, refined, and enjoyed. I feel....so calm and happy right now, and full of joy. It's as if the twisting postures and the breathing and the focus and the stretching worked in harmony to wring me out, body and mind, squeezing the toxins out of my heart. I'm a clean towel again, a freshened sponge to soak up purity and laughter and love.
It's a healthy feeling. I hope it lingers a while.
I'm going back to class this Saturday.
My shoulders and neck are sore, but they've been overdue for a good cleansing for years now.
I have a lucky life, a lovely life.
Thanks for reading.
Frank
Monday, November 16, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
221 - Bright Eyed and Bushy Tailed
Band of Horses! Excellent music! I highly recommend it! 2 songs in particular.... The General Specific and The Great Salt Lake. Somber and melancholic. Mmmm, good! Have some upbeat music nearby, as it makes for a good combo.
Next up, HELLO! My good friends, how I've missed you! It's Monday, nearly 5pm, the work is spilling over my desk and the future is bright! So much to talk about, for now let me say that my weight is hovering around 220, the workload is very busy right now, and that we've moved from outdoor sand to indoor hard court volleyball. My snazzy blue volleyball shoes are the highlight of my court time, and passing to the setter remains ever on my mind.
In lieu of hard running, I've hit the pool with 2 new Spandex swimsuits and a great pair of goggles. I'm attempting to build quiet time and meditation into my daily routine, but let me caution you about meditation. Not the best to do when swimming. I ran into the wall the other day. "The resting place of the mind is the heart." Lord, I could use a quiet mind, some rest, thoughtful prayer and meditation.
Anyways, Life is good and full of surprises. Be gentle with your family and friends, and show them how you care. The only thing that has been neglected is my paperwork, but a quiet evening after volleyball will see me right with the one pressing bill, a parking citation. :)
Take care! Back with a more coherent story. Perhaps the bidet incident in Las Vegas....
Thanks!
Frank
Next up, HELLO! My good friends, how I've missed you! It's Monday, nearly 5pm, the work is spilling over my desk and the future is bright! So much to talk about, for now let me say that my weight is hovering around 220, the workload is very busy right now, and that we've moved from outdoor sand to indoor hard court volleyball. My snazzy blue volleyball shoes are the highlight of my court time, and passing to the setter remains ever on my mind.
In lieu of hard running, I've hit the pool with 2 new Spandex swimsuits and a great pair of goggles. I'm attempting to build quiet time and meditation into my daily routine, but let me caution you about meditation. Not the best to do when swimming. I ran into the wall the other day. "The resting place of the mind is the heart." Lord, I could use a quiet mind, some rest, thoughtful prayer and meditation.
Anyways, Life is good and full of surprises. Be gentle with your family and friends, and show them how you care. The only thing that has been neglected is my paperwork, but a quiet evening after volleyball will see me right with the one pressing bill, a parking citation. :)
Take care! Back with a more coherent story. Perhaps the bidet incident in Las Vegas....
Thanks!
Frank
Thursday, September 10, 2009
219.5 (42.5) ...with his back to the window he typed
Good morning!
Ever find yourself a bit tired, working steadily through your morning tasks, on the verge of the unknown and a bit hungry to boot?
to all those who feel the same, I raise my water glass and salute you.... Happy Thursday!
So I'm just a drop under 220 pounds this morning. At 6'4" that's a good number. A GREAT number considering at the height of my inattentive folly I was a whopping 255 pounds... an eighth of a ton! "Clinically Obese". Those two words spurred me on to join Weight Watchers (which led to my current love of broccoli!), prompted me to join Bally's (another love discovered... the elliptical!), and eventually led me to a book that resonated with me.... The 9 Truths about Weight Loss (Dr. Daniel Kirschenbaum, I believe). I'll tell you what...you wanna change something in your life? JOURNAL! Write it down. Mull it over, let things percolate and simmer and develop over time. Journaling has kept me very aware of what I'm putting in my mouth (and how MUCH!) and that, journaling above all else, above exercise, nutrition, sleep,.... JOURNALING HAS CHANGED MY LIFE!
And so today's post is a note of gratitude for this online blog. This meets my need to share and be recognized, along with my goal to keep track of things. I felt like I was hurling headlong into a tempest last year, out of control, lost and wild. Small steps, daily and consistent and healthy, have helped me find my way again. Good sleep, eating green, keeping my heart open and my words honest. These, with journaling, have saved my life.
I don't expect my problems to be solved. I would just prefer more interesting challenges as time goes on. With a little luck, some love and a lot of laughter, I'll get there. Thanks for walking along beside me. Keeps things fresh.
Take care,
Frank
Ever find yourself a bit tired, working steadily through your morning tasks, on the verge of the unknown and a bit hungry to boot?
to all those who feel the same, I raise my water glass and salute you.... Happy Thursday!
So I'm just a drop under 220 pounds this morning. At 6'4" that's a good number. A GREAT number considering at the height of my inattentive folly I was a whopping 255 pounds... an eighth of a ton! "Clinically Obese". Those two words spurred me on to join Weight Watchers (which led to my current love of broccoli!), prompted me to join Bally's (another love discovered... the elliptical!), and eventually led me to a book that resonated with me.... The 9 Truths about Weight Loss (Dr. Daniel Kirschenbaum, I believe). I'll tell you what...you wanna change something in your life? JOURNAL! Write it down. Mull it over, let things percolate and simmer and develop over time. Journaling has kept me very aware of what I'm putting in my mouth (and how MUCH!) and that, journaling above all else, above exercise, nutrition, sleep,.... JOURNALING HAS CHANGED MY LIFE!
And so today's post is a note of gratitude for this online blog. This meets my need to share and be recognized, along with my goal to keep track of things. I felt like I was hurling headlong into a tempest last year, out of control, lost and wild. Small steps, daily and consistent and healthy, have helped me find my way again. Good sleep, eating green, keeping my heart open and my words honest. These, with journaling, have saved my life.
I don't expect my problems to be solved. I would just prefer more interesting challenges as time goes on. With a little luck, some love and a lot of laughter, I'll get there. Thanks for walking along beside me. Keeps things fresh.
Take care,
Frank
Thursday, September 3, 2009
214 (37 pounds to go) - A Beautiful Dream & Wide Awake
214 pounds!
Every other time I've made it down to this weight, I felt as if it were from running at break-neck speed for far too long, completely exhausted, winded, and out of my mind. For the first time, I'm here, calm and breathing free and easy, wide awake in the middle of a lovely dream!
I KNOW it's not just about the number on the scale! Everything is tingling with life, vitality and energy, and I'm just so grateful to have lived to see this day! Life is such a surprise, especially when you least expect it.
I wonder what is just up ahead, around the bend. And yet, I'm perfectly happy enjoying the lovely scenery today.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. I hope the day surprises you in a small (and wonderful) way.
Frank
Every other time I've made it down to this weight, I felt as if it were from running at break-neck speed for far too long, completely exhausted, winded, and out of my mind. For the first time, I'm here, calm and breathing free and easy, wide awake in the middle of a lovely dream!
I KNOW it's not just about the number on the scale! Everything is tingling with life, vitality and energy, and I'm just so grateful to have lived to see this day! Life is such a surprise, especially when you least expect it.
I wonder what is just up ahead, around the bend. And yet, I'm perfectly happy enjoying the lovely scenery today.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. I hope the day surprises you in a small (and wonderful) way.
Frank
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
215.5 (38.5) The Golden Ring Is Getting Closer (and it's NOT an Onion Ring!)
Hey hey! 215.5 pounds today!
I would ask yesterday's SALAD to stand up and take a bow, but I ate it! Broccoli base, full cucumber, cherub tomatoes (seems a bit like a cherry tomato and a bit like a grape tomato, and 100% delicious!), along with both a red and green pepper!
I would also ask yesterday's WORKOUT to stand and be recognized, but that's just silly! Instead it merely gets marked down as yet another in a series of daily logs.
I hope you're well. I'm excited by the very real possibilities of additional weight loss. In fact, it's less about the scale and more about what I'm thinking about these days. Funny, that. I started out with a NUMBER in my head (a specific weight of 177). Now I really just want to keep refining my routines, and see if I can develop these feelings of self-confidence and build more and more positive (and new) neural pathways. Yep... it's hardwired into my nervous system now. Good times!
Take care! Empathy is next on the list.
Frank
I would ask yesterday's SALAD to stand up and take a bow, but I ate it! Broccoli base, full cucumber, cherub tomatoes (seems a bit like a cherry tomato and a bit like a grape tomato, and 100% delicious!), along with both a red and green pepper!
I would also ask yesterday's WORKOUT to stand and be recognized, but that's just silly! Instead it merely gets marked down as yet another in a series of daily logs.
I hope you're well. I'm excited by the very real possibilities of additional weight loss. In fact, it's less about the scale and more about what I'm thinking about these days. Funny, that. I started out with a NUMBER in my head (a specific weight of 177). Now I really just want to keep refining my routines, and see if I can develop these feelings of self-confidence and build more and more positive (and new) neural pathways. Yep... it's hardwired into my nervous system now. Good times!
Take care! Empathy is next on the list.
Frank
Monday, August 31, 2009
220 (43) What's the Good Word?
Good Evening!
"Neon Triptych" was fun, although my favorite drawings are the caricatures of my brother, Brian.
I just bought a mechanical pencil with a .7mm HB lead and I'm pleased with the energy in the linework.
It's been a wonderful weekend, but I've come to the conclusion that my sense of organization is flawed (I tend to overbook events, resulting in last-minute cancellations, and that cannot continue). So I took the plunge and picked up a daily organizer/calendar! Daily events are "up-for-grabs" no longer! I hope it works! Once I finish this post I'm entering all my "things" for the week.
The medical procedure went well. I'm healthy and have no issues, aside from my penchant for bad puns. Thank goodness. I can live with dumb jokes. And the week has started well with a solid workout and a good starting weight (220). I've got a good feeling about the coming days.
Oh yeah, I just bought new music today. Best find so far is a group called Band of Horses. FUNERAL is the reason I sought them out. Good stuff. Amazing how quickly music can change your state. Sad but not sappy, good energy and thoughtfulness. I've been thinking about meditating (which is better than just sitting here, doing nothing!) and I wonder if this would be music I can meditate to...?
Talk to you soon! Have a great evening!
Frank
"Neon Triptych" was fun, although my favorite drawings are the caricatures of my brother, Brian.
I just bought a mechanical pencil with a .7mm HB lead and I'm pleased with the energy in the linework.
It's been a wonderful weekend, but I've come to the conclusion that my sense of organization is flawed (I tend to overbook events, resulting in last-minute cancellations, and that cannot continue). So I took the plunge and picked up a daily organizer/calendar! Daily events are "up-for-grabs" no longer! I hope it works! Once I finish this post I'm entering all my "things" for the week.
The medical procedure went well. I'm healthy and have no issues, aside from my penchant for bad puns. Thank goodness. I can live with dumb jokes. And the week has started well with a solid workout and a good starting weight (220). I've got a good feeling about the coming days.
Oh yeah, I just bought new music today. Best find so far is a group called Band of Horses. FUNERAL is the reason I sought them out. Good stuff. Amazing how quickly music can change your state. Sad but not sappy, good energy and thoughtfulness. I've been thinking about meditating (which is better than just sitting here, doing nothing!) and I wonder if this would be music I can meditate to...?
Talk to you soon! Have a great evening!
Frank
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
221 (44) C is for COLONOSCOPY
Good morning, dear friend!
And what a lovely day it is! The rain has been falling steadily since daybreak, and the earth is drinking its fill. What water collected on my Jeep poured down upon me in a shocking stream when I opened the driver's side door. I need to be quicker getting in the car... or get a better soft top for the Wrangler. Still, it was funny... and it's just water.
Well! Today is a very interesting day! Much like Christmas Eve. Well, it's the eve of something, but not presents! I have a colonoscopy tomorrow! Yay! I like to think of it as "The Fantastic Voyage". In just under 22 hours from now we'll join the good doctor and his team of specialists as they explore the inner workings of FRANK, searching for polyps, laughs, and high adventure on a Road Like No Other!
Will he be able to match the 99 hour fast of his fabulous sister? (no, as the late night chicken soft taco will attest to). Will he be able to bid "Adieu" to his beloved broccoli in order to make history? (well, for a day, I can keep the greens at bay). Will this help him jump higher, run faster, be overall funnier and STILL play the piano? (insert sound of 6Million Dollar Man here)
All these questions will be answered on August 27th!
... actually, I've been told it's a routine procedure, no drama, I'm sedated and pretty much out of it. Not even a fridge magnet as a keepsake.
Ahh well...So today it's water and Gatorade and more water and ever more Gatorade and yes, I'm still playing volleyball tonight (I HOPE this isn't a mistake, it'll be between dosings of the fluid that's supposed to help prep me). Fingers crossed....
hey! just fought off my first hunger pang of the day! Take that, HP, have more Gatorade!
All right, I should go. I'll write again on Friday, perhaps tomorrow evening. I'm sorry that the SCOPE has hijacked today's post. In other news, I've been working out regularly in the mornings, and it's been wonderful! Had a great dinner last night at a restaurant called KARYN'S RAW (on Halsted, by the Steppenwolf). Very tasty, very creative! I recommend the Jamaican ginger ale and the empanadas.
Um...I still need to buy a new bike helmet after last week's crash. and yeah, all else is good. I'm challenged by the usual trials, and I laugh at the antics of my friends. Life is good.
Take care! and thanks...
Frank
And what a lovely day it is! The rain has been falling steadily since daybreak, and the earth is drinking its fill. What water collected on my Jeep poured down upon me in a shocking stream when I opened the driver's side door. I need to be quicker getting in the car... or get a better soft top for the Wrangler. Still, it was funny... and it's just water.
Well! Today is a very interesting day! Much like Christmas Eve. Well, it's the eve of something, but not presents! I have a colonoscopy tomorrow! Yay! I like to think of it as "The Fantastic Voyage". In just under 22 hours from now we'll join the good doctor and his team of specialists as they explore the inner workings of FRANK, searching for polyps, laughs, and high adventure on a Road Like No Other!
Will he be able to match the 99 hour fast of his fabulous sister? (no, as the late night chicken soft taco will attest to). Will he be able to bid "Adieu" to his beloved broccoli in order to make history? (well, for a day, I can keep the greens at bay). Will this help him jump higher, run faster, be overall funnier and STILL play the piano? (insert sound of 6Million Dollar Man here)
All these questions will be answered on August 27th!
... actually, I've been told it's a routine procedure, no drama, I'm sedated and pretty much out of it. Not even a fridge magnet as a keepsake.
Ahh well...So today it's water and Gatorade and more water and ever more Gatorade and yes, I'm still playing volleyball tonight (I HOPE this isn't a mistake, it'll be between dosings of the fluid that's supposed to help prep me). Fingers crossed....
hey! just fought off my first hunger pang of the day! Take that, HP, have more Gatorade!
All right, I should go. I'll write again on Friday, perhaps tomorrow evening. I'm sorry that the SCOPE has hijacked today's post. In other news, I've been working out regularly in the mornings, and it's been wonderful! Had a great dinner last night at a restaurant called KARYN'S RAW (on Halsted, by the Steppenwolf). Very tasty, very creative! I recommend the Jamaican ginger ale and the empanadas.
Um...I still need to buy a new bike helmet after last week's crash. and yeah, all else is good. I'm challenged by the usual trials, and I laugh at the antics of my friends. Life is good.
Take care! and thanks...
Frank
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Hope, Regret and Nachos!
218 (41)! What a great number! Gotta love 218! I'm typing this line as I munch on some late night spinach, almonds and water! This is both my dinner and my defense against the ice-cream waiting for me at my parent's house tonight! There's an impromptu family party to bid 'adieu' to a cousin flying back to Spain tomorrow morning! As soon as I finish this note, I'll be off like a herd of turtles to get to the party!
So.... Hope.
Ever want to laugh and cry at the same moment? Mix in feelings of balance, calm and joy. That's been the last few days, weeks and (yes) months! (smiling)
Regret.
The time it took to get to this point in my life. The pain and hurt caused, clinging to emptiness, loss and confusion. A turmoil of noise and doubt swirling inside my head. Into the Storm, indeed.
Nachos.
Not much to say about nachos. You either love them or not. I found the best ones at Alumni Club in Schaumburg.... I recommend the combo, large! Order a 3-1-2 and watch some great volleyball! As much as I love spinach, some crispy nachos piled high with melted cheese, chicken and tomatoes....mmmmmmmmm!
Alright...the spinach is eaten, the broccoli enjoyed. Gonna fill up the water bottle and hit the highway!
I'm thinking of you, and hoping you're well! Until next time....
Frankie
p.s. Thanks for reading!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
221 (44) Luke, you've turned off your targeting computer!
Good afternoon!
Hey hey, 221 on a beautiful Tuesday morning! Followed by a Sausage McMuffin at breakfast, a turkey/avocado sub for lunch, and a granola bar before 1! Alright, a little off the reservation (did I mention the Doritos?)... but now's a good time to rein in a little. 215... has been done, can be done again! Thursday?
Emissions tonight, vehicle sticker, gym, Trader Joe's (mmmm, Pita chips!), and then a salad and a very late 9:45 volleyball match. It's rounding out to be a full rich day.
I sketched in the doctor's office yesterday, and will post soon. SPIRAL #2 is still in my head, and I'm still not reaching for the sketchbook as readily as I'd like, but you know, I'm okay with the balance right now.
Have to stretch soon. Knee is tender today. Funny... more stretching = less pain, and no stretching = sore to the touch.
Take care out there! This feels like a "keep head down and stay focused" kind of day, and yet despite that, the near future seems so promising. It's a Tuesday of Contentment.
Frank
Monday, August 10, 2009
224.5 (47.5) Good Heavens! Are those... SKETCHES???
Good Afternoon!
I'm running out the door to a doctor's appointment, so allow me to paraphrase the underwear salesman when I say: "let's be brief!"
Hit 215 on Friday!
218 on Saturday!
230 Sunday night!
224.5 this morning!
It's a rollercoaster!
and Sketches are attached!! Including the first draft of SPIRAL OF GRATITUDE! The most interesting thing about these drawings is the new pen... it's more of a brush, and requires me to think differently about composing quickly and with less awkwardness. It's been a pleasure, so far.
Be well, and try to find at least ONE interesting cloud out there today!
Back before either of us knows it!!
Frank
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
217 (40) Doc, I just don't stretch that far!
217 pounds.
It's awesome. A magical number. Totally unexpected.
So today is the tricky day.... first day after a new dip in weight, I'm most likely (historically speaking) to overeat. My plan? Water and spinach and broccoli and S - L - O - W eating of anything else.
It's 4pm.... time for some almonds.
Thanks for reading this! Today is a big day.
It's also a sad day. But it'll pass.
And it's also a SORE day. Physical therapy today....learned a bunch of new exercises! Ouch! In order, for the next week.... 10 min cardio warm up, stretch the hammies on the Prostretch, IBT stretch, then hip flexor (very important for my sore stomach muscle), performus (sp?) stretch (think cannonball and jacknife into pool), pelvis roll, London bridge (arch pelvis up with knees til back feels like, well, London Bridge). Finally, Imaginary Chair (with kickball between knees). But, if this keeps me running... Hell's Yes I'll do it! Oh yeah, and 10 minute treadmill, walking bacwards at high incline, SLOWWWWWLY, LONGGGGGGG strides. Legs and hips feel used and abused right now.
Alright, work beckons. Be good! Sketches... one day! (shaking head) I can acutally SEE the pics in my head.... must make time to draw!
Woody
It's awesome. A magical number. Totally unexpected.
So today is the tricky day.... first day after a new dip in weight, I'm most likely (historically speaking) to overeat. My plan? Water and spinach and broccoli and S - L - O - W eating of anything else.
It's 4pm.... time for some almonds.
Thanks for reading this! Today is a big day.
It's also a sad day. But it'll pass.
And it's also a SORE day. Physical therapy today....learned a bunch of new exercises! Ouch! In order, for the next week.... 10 min cardio warm up, stretch the hammies on the Prostretch, IBT stretch, then hip flexor (very important for my sore stomach muscle), performus (sp?) stretch (think cannonball and jacknife into pool), pelvis roll, London bridge (arch pelvis up with knees til back feels like, well, London Bridge). Finally, Imaginary Chair (with kickball between knees). But, if this keeps me running... Hell's Yes I'll do it! Oh yeah, and 10 minute treadmill, walking bacwards at high incline, SLOWWWWWLY, LONGGGGGGG strides. Legs and hips feel used and abused right now.
Alright, work beckons. Be good! Sketches... one day! (shaking head) I can acutally SEE the pics in my head.... must make time to draw!
Woody
Friday, July 31, 2009
addendum
Four words:
Pepsi and WAX TAILOR.
back to my bouncy self.
Spiral out into the universe...let the weekend begin!
Woody
218 (41) Chemical? Emotional? Weekendonal?
Good afternoon!
It really HAS been a while! Less a circle and more a spiral. Things resemble but rarely repeat, thank goodness!
I hope this note finds you well.
218!! What a lovely number! 2 solid hours (6 games) of volleyball, a little wine, a little chocolate, a LOT of salad, a morning workout, things are headed in the right direction.
So why the long face? I've categorized it as a "downswing in a normally UP personality". It's a Friday in summer, our slowest season, and what little work I have sits unattended on my desk. This would be a GREAT day to RENT a pet... nothing like a dog to pick your spirits up. I say RENT because this is a fleeting feeling, and sure as little green apples I'll be back in the land of crazy happy grateful before too long.
Perhaps I need to count my blessings. A nice spiral of gratitude to remember that I have friends and family and loved ones a'plenty.
There's a very specific problem that has me sad. Time will heal it. Always does. Silly heart. Be patient and grateful. ......and drink more water.
Hey! The weekend is here! 3 more hours.... blink of an eye! Be good, and I'll be back soon with actual sketches!! This is interesting, for the first time in my life I can actually SEE the pictures in my head, before I put them on paper.... feeling very eco-conscious....no paper lost on my rough drafts! lol.
Take care! If I've wronged you, my sincerest apologies. If I've preached to you, it's because I love you and care about you. If I've worked out with you, we are INDEED good friends. And if I've told you a joke, it's because I especially love to hear you laugh! You have summoned the sunshine for me!
Frank
Thursday, July 30, 2009
221 (47) Are you sure you lost an electron? Yep! I'm Positive!
Hello hello!
Where have the days gone? Quickie note: I hope you're well!
6 vball games tonight, then cheering a friend on at softball.
An upcoming trip to Spain! A doppelganger for my friend with a broken hand!
Physical Therapy! Starburst Fruit Chews! Still losing weight! Choosing SPINACH over BURGERS!!!!
Dogs and cats living together.... MASS HYSTERIA!
And in the middle of it, a nice, calm version of me! That may be the strangest part of all.
Talk to ya soon! Easy Breezy until then! :)
Gochisoo sama deshita!
Frank
Where have the days gone? Quickie note: I hope you're well!
6 vball games tonight, then cheering a friend on at softball.
An upcoming trip to Spain! A doppelganger for my friend with a broken hand!
Physical Therapy! Starburst Fruit Chews! Still losing weight! Choosing SPINACH over BURGERS!!!!
Dogs and cats living together.... MASS HYSTERIA!
And in the middle of it, a nice, calm version of me! That may be the strangest part of all.
Talk to ya soon! Easy Breezy until then! :)
Gochisoo sama deshita!
Frank
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
223 Sore Knee Poor Me (character building)
Hello Again!
It's tough to live in fear. Spreads a person too thin. In the immortal words of Tolkien "I feel like jam scraped over too much toast".
Solution: more sleep, morning exercise, a mental spiral of gratitude for all that I am blessed with. Good Lord, I have a lucky life!
Off to see a midnight movie with friends tonight. Before that I'm headed to see my parents, a cousin from Spain, an uncle from Colorado, and assorted siblings. It's family buffet. :)
I'm hours away from seeing my ex-wife, half a day from seeing a long-lost friend, 18 hours from donating blood, 1 hour from hugging my mom! It's been a mere 5 minutes since I've had a surprise email from a lovely friend, and it's been about 15 minutes since I emailed a woman with the most beautiful and endearing chuckle. Cross your fingers for me. My new life has room for love, joy, laughter and hope. Hurl it out, welcome it's return embrace.
I hope you're well. I was in a funk yesterday. Lost my cool. Took some kidlets climbing all over me, a snack pack of Nutter Butters, a spiral of gratitude, some bing cherries and a couple bananas to restore order. All those things and (laughing) a nice text message about 20 seconds ago. I'm such a fool. :)
Take care! Be gentle and easy with yourself until then... (I'll try too)
Frank
It's tough to live in fear. Spreads a person too thin. In the immortal words of Tolkien "I feel like jam scraped over too much toast".
Solution: more sleep, morning exercise, a mental spiral of gratitude for all that I am blessed with. Good Lord, I have a lucky life!
Off to see a midnight movie with friends tonight. Before that I'm headed to see my parents, a cousin from Spain, an uncle from Colorado, and assorted siblings. It's family buffet. :)
I'm hours away from seeing my ex-wife, half a day from seeing a long-lost friend, 18 hours from donating blood, 1 hour from hugging my mom! It's been a mere 5 minutes since I've had a surprise email from a lovely friend, and it's been about 15 minutes since I emailed a woman with the most beautiful and endearing chuckle. Cross your fingers for me. My new life has room for love, joy, laughter and hope. Hurl it out, welcome it's return embrace.
I hope you're well. I was in a funk yesterday. Lost my cool. Took some kidlets climbing all over me, a snack pack of Nutter Butters, a spiral of gratitude, some bing cherries and a couple bananas to restore order. All those things and (laughing) a nice text message about 20 seconds ago. I'm such a fool. :)
Take care! Be gentle and easy with yourself until then... (I'll try too)
Frank
Friday, July 10, 2009
221 (44) Summer in a Single Day
And so we return to this safest of havens.
Thanks for stopping by. I pray that you may tarry yet a while. The weekend is upon us, the sun has shaken off the cottony daydreams and shines out with healing light. I love this feeling. Possibilities indeed.
and so... I stand on the shoulders of giants to summarize the best outlook yet... put your dreams out there. Shine forth and hurl laughter and joy into the world. Without agenda, be a ministry of Joy & Service & Hope & Love. Be intoxicated with Life!
My mind is scattered, and I've never felt so free. My friends have boosted me and my enemies summon laughter from within me, bubbling up and out like a wild refreshing spring. I am a lucky soul. I'm buoyed by joy. As fast as I can send it hurtling from me, it returns in ever new and varied forms. Good Lord, a person could get addicted to this!
lol... sanity for a minute, a quick tally.
221. A great number. Beautiful numbers. I crave broccoli. Spinach nourishes. Almonds energize. I've been out of the gym for 3 weeks as my knee appears to require physical therapy. It's not stopping me from daily volleyball (Laura, your hands on the court last night were epic! How was I ever lucky enough to have you as my sand 2s partner?) You make us look great in the sand! Summer indeed is summoned in golden light when we play. Sore knees can wait until the final whistle blows.
I'll be seeing 217 so very soon. Perhaps Sunday. I suspect my brother and I will be riding 40 miles tomorrow. He's getting so very strong, but more than that, he's HUNGRY for distance, freedom and miles. It's a powerful thing, seeing someone shape their destiny in front of your eyes.
Alright. Haircut! and then volleyball! Be well. Unburden yourself. Let it all go. Why hold on to empty satchels? Set them free, forgive yourself, throw it all far and wide. That which matters most will return to you, and they will be like dear friends with bright eyes.
Have a great weekend!
Thanks,
Frank
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
midmorning pause
He stood in the face of the storm,
howling with laughter,
drunk with life,
dangerously full of whimsy and joy.
Life beckons.
howling with laughter,
drunk with life,
dangerously full of whimsy and joy.
Life beckons.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
223 (46) Endless Possibilities, Limited Vision
Hey! We're back again! and I'm SO HAPPY you're here! Seriously! This is such a fun place for me. I meant to write earlier, and even as I write to you my mind is elsewhere, everywhere, scattered, energetic and a bit manic.
My diet has really given me energy. Mountains of spinach, forests of broccoli, SO much water! (laughing) I feel clean. Part of the world again. Mindful. Still selfish, and very self-centered, but definitely part of the world.
No exercise this morning. Volleyball soon. 2s in the sand. Laura has great hands, and is a good teammate. She allows me in, but only so far. I wonder what it would be like to have a genuine conversation with her. Kim will be there tonight, too. Perhaps Jessica. Did I say I was distracted? lol.... so many possibilities, so many wonderful people around me... the spirals of our lives in synch here and there and here again. With nothing but joy in my heart as I write this, I have a very lovely life. The heart expands.
Seeing my folks tonight! Cousin is in from Georgia with his 2 boys. This'll be fun. I've feared the onset of stodginess (spelling?) and spontaneous family events remind me that I'm only as old as I feel. Today I feel 16 again! Vibrant, humming with life and vitality, goofy, silly, clumsy and young! A very lovely life indeed!
Take care! Perhaps next time I'll be more mindful in my writing. Today, this is the best I could do.
Life.... (rolling up sleeves in anticipation)... bring it on!!
Frank
p.s. Thanks for being here!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
221 (44) LIFE? or Writing about life??
Good Evening!
I've missed these posts! In one way... it's as if writing on this blog has become letters to a friend. Good stuff. And why not, right? Life is good, and that's just as solid a reason to write as when there are struggles, too.
Anyways, I hope this note finds you well. It's been a busy couple of days. Ran my 2nd official run... a 5K this time, in Mt. Prospect with my coworker. Excellent time... just under 27 minutes! 2 friends ran with me, but after the first block we all split up to run at our own pace. Running is such a solitary pursuit, even when surrounded by other runners. Almost as if we're all islands, moving through oceans of time and water. Well, it was a GREAT run, and I think I'm hooked on 5Ks for a while. Next up... Chinatown 5K in July!
(laughing) after the run, I met up with other friends and we played sand volleyball for 5 and a half hours! It's very interesting how 30 minutes spent running seemed a lifetime, and half a day of volleyball just flew by. My perception of time is peculiar, but welcome. Didn't win a single game of pick-up volleyball, but I had such a fun time with my friends (and we went on to sweep 4 wins in our league games last night! Thank you, Saturday Practice)! The craziest moment was when I accidentally slipped (while chasing a wild volleyball) and took a slide through this nasty pool of fetid water. Blech! Good thing my mouth was closed. I stood, covered in muck and mud and water and worms! The water's been there a while, and I shudder to think what got on my skin that day. Double yuck! But... my friends thought I slid on purpose, so... not a total loss! I'm clumsy, but I looked good doing it. That's something, right?
Weight loss! By accident and design I took last week off from the gym. Tuesday-Friday: nothing! Just volleyball, and that's not a huge calorie burn. I felt VERY guilty, but it turned out to be a good thing. Gotta let the body heal from time to time, it's crucial. And... I ended up being fresh for the run, juiced to be back in the gym this week, and saw a GREAT number on the scale this morning: 221! C'mon, 219.... I'm so close! Tonight it's bananas, almonds and a granola bar for dinner, with water to stay hydrated. Volleyball, then gym, then back to work for a couple more things. Late night, but needed. Wish me luck. It's in the long watches of the night that I get off track in so many ways.
Today's creations make me laugh. The sketch on the papertowel I call "Sandboarding!" A friend commented that was a sport they would be doing, and the image has stuck in my head. I'd like to sharpen up this theme, and see if a cool composition is there. Doesn't that sound like fun? Sandboard! (I just learned to snowboard, must be on my mind...) The other offering is a composite I call: Tuesday Breakfast. I put myself in the photo to show you the (mental) perspective. There are days it is a MOUNTAIN of broccoli. I love it. Keeps me full, saves me on the scale and I like the taste! But it IS a mountain. (the photo is of me, post 5K on Saturday).
Alright, I need to get out of here. Volleyball in just over an hour, and it's 30 minutes to get there! Catch ya later! Off to see the Harry Potter exhibit at the museum tomorrow. Photos to come!
Thanks again! Be well, have a nice night. Summer has (at last) landed! With a humid vengance! That's alright. It's about time! :)
Frank
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
223.5 (46.5) A Binge and A Dive
Hello and Good Evening!
Just a minute to write. Let's see... I binged last night... Burger King (blech!) but it was SO good while I ate... all told I consumed approximately 2100 calories and approximately 100 grams of fat in 30 minutes. Sheesh! There was an emotional trigger, but I think the fact that I didn't eat much at lunch didn't help, either. More on that when I have time to sit and think longer on this.
The Dive! SUPER quick sketch, from my mind only (no photo guide) trying to capture the fun and craziness that is sand volleyball! If I'm not diving, it's not sand. Great sport, it's like being a kid again!
Alright, gotta go! Headed to Six Flags tonight with my brother. Coasters and catching up! A good night indeed!
See you soon!
Frank
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
222.5 (45.5) Rainy Tuesday
Another Tuesday night, rainy, but a good day. I hope this note finds you well.
I overslept this morning, missed the a.m. workout. 2 days in a row... but I did manage a 2 mile run last night after some excellent volleyball! So... I'm on the evening workouts, and I'll be back with the mornings, and soon. I was up late drawing, 12:30 in the morning, actually. My friend Nick challenged me to have 5 compositions this week, and when I'm drawing, time is forgotten. Today's posted sketches were a lot of fun, although I REALLY need to find my darker pencils.
I like the furious pose of the swimmer. I missed on the facial expression of the boy, who should be snickering. The other, a self portrait, has potential, but this is definitely a rough draft.
Volleyball in an hour. Take care! See you tomorrow! I have NO IDEA what should be drawn next... but that's part of the fun, isn't it?
Take care!
Frank
Monday, June 15, 2009
226 (49) A Full Rich Day
"Always and Never are not words for men. You'll be returning again and again."
Ningauble of the Seven Eyes or Sheelba of the Eyeless Face (Fritz Leiber's Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser)
Good Afternoon!
This is one of my favorite quotes. It applies to my weight loss efforts, most especially in the springtime afternoon of a Monday at work. So often I seem to lose ground on Mondays on the scale, weighing heavier than the previous Friday. I must be twice as vigilant on the weekends, journaling and exercising conscientously, with the knowledge that my schedule is much looser on Saturdays and Sundays, and opportunities to make poor decisions are much more frequent. Perhaps I need to create a schedule for myself, mostly so that I don't fall victim to the moment (the food in front of me, etc.).
Anyways, I hope you're well. I managed 1 sketch over the weekend ("Conjured Summer") and that was Friday evening! I have ideas for 5 more renderings, and will be working on them shortly. It was a full, rich weekend, but I neglected to make time for drawing. I guess I'm easing back into it slower than I thought. Perhaps I'll draw this afternoon and add a quick sketch to this post in a few hours. It's become a nice addition to my maunderings.
So, tonight will be fun! I'll go for a quick sprint after work (1 mile), followed by sand volleyball (4s). Can't wait! The work day is busy but it's slow at the moment. I need to bring water, Gatorade and snacks to the match tonight (especially SCOOBY SNACKS) as we're trying to build a sense of camaraderie and fun. Do Fruit Roll-Ups build strong relationships? lol... guess I'll find out!
Take care! Talk to you soon!
Oh yes... I chose to sleep in this morning instead of work out. I will be consistent on morning workouts for the rest of this week! It's summer, not summer vacation!
Frank
Ningauble of the Seven Eyes or Sheelba of the Eyeless Face (Fritz Leiber's Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser)
Good Afternoon!
This is one of my favorite quotes. It applies to my weight loss efforts, most especially in the springtime afternoon of a Monday at work. So often I seem to lose ground on Mondays on the scale, weighing heavier than the previous Friday. I must be twice as vigilant on the weekends, journaling and exercising conscientously, with the knowledge that my schedule is much looser on Saturdays and Sundays, and opportunities to make poor decisions are much more frequent. Perhaps I need to create a schedule for myself, mostly so that I don't fall victim to the moment (the food in front of me, etc.).
Anyways, I hope you're well. I managed 1 sketch over the weekend ("Conjured Summer") and that was Friday evening! I have ideas for 5 more renderings, and will be working on them shortly. It was a full, rich weekend, but I neglected to make time for drawing. I guess I'm easing back into it slower than I thought. Perhaps I'll draw this afternoon and add a quick sketch to this post in a few hours. It's become a nice addition to my maunderings.
So, tonight will be fun! I'll go for a quick sprint after work (1 mile), followed by sand volleyball (4s). Can't wait! The work day is busy but it's slow at the moment. I need to bring water, Gatorade and snacks to the match tonight (especially SCOOBY SNACKS) as we're trying to build a sense of camaraderie and fun. Do Fruit Roll-Ups build strong relationships? lol... guess I'll find out!
Take care! Talk to you soon!
Oh yes... I chose to sleep in this morning instead of work out. I will be consistent on morning workouts for the rest of this week! It's summer, not summer vacation!
Frank
Friday, June 12, 2009
Composition Forming
Hello again!
My 4B pencils are at home. I'll track them down this weekend, but in the meantime I'll continue to count on Photoshop levels.
...sketchy to faces to stills to an actual composition...
Hmmm... I have 14 more pages to fill by Sunday night.
What is on my mind?
Apparently, pineapples. Yesterday's pineapple conjured summer. Blue skies today. Imagine that.
Turning it over in my head....
Take care! Talk to you soon,
Frank
222.5 (45.5) Sunny Day, Spirits High, Pineapple Tasty
Hey hey! Good morning!
222.5 this morning! After 2 mornings of no time in the gym! lol... I took some well-deserved ribbing from my friends Richard and Mitch on the ellipticals, and then it was the usual routine. I was more energized this morning (fueled, no doubt, by the tasty burger last night!), and it was a smooth, very welcome workout (albeit a quick one). Weights tonight after work, and then the weekend can start in style!
So... PINEAPPLES! I have been LOVING pineapples this week! Yum! On sale, they smell great, they conjure Hawaiian daydreams and they're just so EXOTIC! Alright, I may have a bit of a crush on pineapples right now. I admit it. Oh well... curse me for a fool and we can laugh all the same.
The weekend is here! ...nearly here. My coworker made for a good sketch model yesterday... I may bring the book into the lunchroom again today. I have my 2H pencil at hand, and a GOOD ERASER (Staedtler Mars) this time.... so no smudges. As much as I love to texture sketches ("overdraw" a piece), I think my best doodles are the ones with the least lines and the most energy, you know? Interpretation, not duplication!
Alright! My spirits are high. There's a certain... Je ne sais quoi... in the air. Thank goodness we have the ability to hope.
Take care! Have a great weekend!
Frank
Thursday, June 11, 2009
224.5 (47.5) Day 2 is the Toughest
Hi there!
2:45 and another fast day! My grand plans for a significant composition are still rolling along, but I'm a much slower artist than I remember. Ahh well. It's the journey wherein lies the value...
Lunchroom sketches. Coworkers! John has such interesting hair, I couldn't resist.
I'll finish a sketch of a pineapple shortly.
I overslept (family party last night) and missed 2 morning workouts in a row. I'll be hitting it hard in the gym tonight. Treadmill, Beware!
Take care! Gotta dash! Thanks!
Frank
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
(225.5) (223) (224.5) Sketching again
Good morning! I'm sketching again! And we're busy at work. Weight has "stabilized" around 224 and the daily workouts are very welcome. I still love raw broccoli and spinach in the morning, and I've made strides to improve on the late evening foraging (feeling about 85% successful).
I've started wearing a heart rate monitor to keep an eye on the estimated daily caloric burn. VERY interesting. Lesson: EXERCISE! It rips the calories off you (i.e. 5100 calorie burn Monday, 3100 yesterday, and today, only 646 in the last 5 hours). My BMR appears to be around 2800 (crazy!), so I've got a really solid opportunity to watch my intake and up the output for some serious weight loss!
Oh yeah! My last girlfriend has kind of gone crazy. She keeps emailing me... first a sweet&creepy email saying: "...been thinking about you non-stop for the last 3 months and wouldn't it be great to get back together even though you've moved on...", and then, after I sent a short but direct note ("I've moved on"), she sends me my first truly (no other word for it) venomous email... a real 180 degree-flip! It was incredibly nasty and hurtful. Amazing! So one of my quick sketches is supposed to be me, looking over my shoulder. I am, actually. I KNOW there are obsessive and disturbed people out there, but who would've thought I had actually DATED one? I shall continue running with the added spur of possibly having to outrun this particular woman in the future. Feets Don't Fail Me Now!
Lunchtime! Gotta go! Hope you like my first attempts. I'll be adding them daily, and with luck I'll retrain my hand to translate what I see in my mind.
Title of sketches:
1. STALKER? (not my best "over the shoulder/worried" glance)
2. APPEALING SNACK (har har)
3. I Have NO IDEA What to Draw!
also, thanks to Sarah (Twin 1) and Nick for being patiently insistent that I keep drawing.
Take care!
Frank
Friday, June 5, 2009
224 (47) Laura Has Absolutely the Best Hands!
Good morning and Blue Sky Friday to ya! Seriously, have you LOOKED outside? Powder blue skies, vivid green landscape, sunny and quiet but for the occasional drone of small airplanes. Phones are silent and my coworker hasn't come in yet. It's one of those mornings that makes me glad to be in Chicago in the springtime. Plus, the weekend is nearly here!! Laundry and leisure time and a change-up in the routine. After 5 days of 4:30 a.m. starts, Saturday's 8am sleep-in is going to seem positively decadent.
So, it's been a busy week. I didn't dip below 222, but neither did I hit 226. I maintained my weight, and without creating a significant caloric deficiency that's the simple truth. I had some donuts this week, 2 drive-thrus, and a couple of nights with only 4 hours of sleep. Not a winning combination for weight loss. The journaling helped keep the van on the mountain (even if I did drive off the road, so to speak).
Alright... the challenge for the weekend is to make smart nutritional choices. I'm going to duplicate the diet I enjoy during the working week: morning veggies, lean proteins at lunch, fruits and nuts (snack) and a half portion at dinnertime. The last 4 weekends have seen 4 pound increases in my weight. I have a better shot at reaching 219 by not eating up to 226 tomorrow and Sunday. 8am workout tomorrow, a run tonight and Sunday....yes, this is do-able.
So... my Thursday sand volleyball partner, Laura has the best hands out there! She passed and set the ball so beautifully, time and time again (shaking head in wonder), we had... so much fun yesterday! We were both spiking and running and diving and playing as a team. There were some great rallies and one insanely good play (a backwards kick at the back line sent the ball over the net, still in play, and after 3 more dives into the sand, we got the point. It was the perfect summer day. Surrounded by friends, playing with a lovely partner (great attitude, willing as a new day), and feeling healthy and vital and ALIVE... it was a golden moment in a very lucky life.
and when I woke up this morning, stiff and sore and 30 minutes late to the gym, I staggered onto a treadmill and walked out the stiffness. Seems so counterintuitive. Muscles hurt. Solution: work them out. I now merely feel elderly instead of ancient!
Alright. Work beckons. Take care of yourselves this weekend! Wish me luck (and self control) and I'll catch ya on Monday! (earlier, if I have good news to report).
Frank
So, it's been a busy week. I didn't dip below 222, but neither did I hit 226. I maintained my weight, and without creating a significant caloric deficiency that's the simple truth. I had some donuts this week, 2 drive-thrus, and a couple of nights with only 4 hours of sleep. Not a winning combination for weight loss. The journaling helped keep the van on the mountain (even if I did drive off the road, so to speak).
Alright... the challenge for the weekend is to make smart nutritional choices. I'm going to duplicate the diet I enjoy during the working week: morning veggies, lean proteins at lunch, fruits and nuts (snack) and a half portion at dinnertime. The last 4 weekends have seen 4 pound increases in my weight. I have a better shot at reaching 219 by not eating up to 226 tomorrow and Sunday. 8am workout tomorrow, a run tonight and Sunday....yes, this is do-able.
So... my Thursday sand volleyball partner, Laura has the best hands out there! She passed and set the ball so beautifully, time and time again (shaking head in wonder), we had... so much fun yesterday! We were both spiking and running and diving and playing as a team. There were some great rallies and one insanely good play (a backwards kick at the back line sent the ball over the net, still in play, and after 3 more dives into the sand, we got the point. It was the perfect summer day. Surrounded by friends, playing with a lovely partner (great attitude, willing as a new day), and feeling healthy and vital and ALIVE... it was a golden moment in a very lucky life.
and when I woke up this morning, stiff and sore and 30 minutes late to the gym, I staggered onto a treadmill and walked out the stiffness. Seems so counterintuitive. Muscles hurt. Solution: work them out. I now merely feel elderly instead of ancient!
Alright. Work beckons. Take care of yourselves this weekend! Wish me luck (and self control) and I'll catch ya on Monday! (earlier, if I have good news to report).
Frank
Thursday, June 4, 2009
223.5 (46.5) Short Post, Crazy Foods
Good morning!
Just a quick post today. Work has heated up and I'm behind the eight ball on some time-sensitive projects.
Slept in yesterday and missed my morning workout. Made up for it with (cold) sand volleyball practice last night. I woke up this morning and was back in the gym for a 5 mile elliptical session and some situps. No time for weights, but am looking forward to them tomorrow. 7 volleyball games (sand) tonight. Stomach is slightly hurting. My coworker thinks a pulled muscle. The hypochondriac in me thinks... hernia? hmmm... easing off situps for now, and tomorrow will be a high incline walk (20 degrees) on the treadmill. Great for getting a good sweat on, with less impact (better for the stomach).
Crazy/poor food choices yesterday. McDonald's drive-thru in the morning, followed by 2 delicious buttermilk donuts! Healthy green salad at lunch and fajitas for dinner. All in all, NOT a calorie deficit. Kept heart rate monitor on all day... burned about 1600 calories in 11 hours. Trying to pin down my BMR (basal metabolic rate?) but have yet to leave it on 24 hours with no extra (gym) activity. Interested to know the number.
Work has me a bit stressed at the moment. Ton of laundry to do. But the sun is shining, I'm happy and healthy and strong and vital. I've got a date this weekend and a trip to Milwaukee with my brother Saturday morning.
I'm tired this morning, but excited for the challenge of work. If I can just stay focused and deliberate in my actions (after this post) I won't let my clients down. I hope.
Take care! Thanks! 221... can we see you tomorrow morning??
Frank
Just a quick post today. Work has heated up and I'm behind the eight ball on some time-sensitive projects.
Slept in yesterday and missed my morning workout. Made up for it with (cold) sand volleyball practice last night. I woke up this morning and was back in the gym for a 5 mile elliptical session and some situps. No time for weights, but am looking forward to them tomorrow. 7 volleyball games (sand) tonight. Stomach is slightly hurting. My coworker thinks a pulled muscle. The hypochondriac in me thinks... hernia? hmmm... easing off situps for now, and tomorrow will be a high incline walk (20 degrees) on the treadmill. Great for getting a good sweat on, with less impact (better for the stomach).
Crazy/poor food choices yesterday. McDonald's drive-thru in the morning, followed by 2 delicious buttermilk donuts! Healthy green salad at lunch and fajitas for dinner. All in all, NOT a calorie deficit. Kept heart rate monitor on all day... burned about 1600 calories in 11 hours. Trying to pin down my BMR (basal metabolic rate?) but have yet to leave it on 24 hours with no extra (gym) activity. Interested to know the number.
Work has me a bit stressed at the moment. Ton of laundry to do. But the sun is shining, I'm happy and healthy and strong and vital. I've got a date this weekend and a trip to Milwaukee with my brother Saturday morning.
I'm tired this morning, but excited for the challenge of work. If I can just stay focused and deliberate in my actions (after this post) I won't let my clients down. I hope.
Take care! Thanks! 221... can we see you tomorrow morning??
Frank
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
222 (45) The Elusive Number!
It's Peach Season! Delicious! Even better than the yogurt set aside as my mid-afternoon snack!
Hi there! Just a quick minute to check in. Super busy at work today. It's 2pm and I have 7 "Must Happen" items on my list (usually at this time I have, about 3). Thank goodness I'm focused and well fed.
Solid workout this morning. Added "interval training" to my elliptical routine. Proved I was dogging it on the machines... the miles and calories weren't adding up. Jillian Michaels suggested the following high-intensity cardio workout: 30 second all-out sprint, 30 second recovery. Then add 15 seconds to each (45 sprint, 45 recovery). Add 15 seconds each time, building all the way to a 90 second sprint, followed by a 90 second recovery. Then pyramid back down to 30 seconds. And then repeat the whole cycle! Man! My heartrate shot up right away! and the miles! I managed just over 5 miles in 45 minutes, with 760 calories burned! Sweet! Those are the kinds of numbers I saw last year, when I was going all out, every morning, in the height of a very stressful time (divorce). The stress is gone. I've found a way to recreate the workout. Sweat-drippingly excellent!
and 222 on the scale this morning! Thank goodness! I ate some very late ice cream last night (slathered in butterscotch and chocolate sauces, whipped cream and sprinkles! Hey, go big or go home, I say!). Ron (from The Biggest Loser) said it best when he said: "What was the occasional must now become the constant, and what was constant before must now be very rare" (referring to exercise, nutrition and junk food).
Have a great day! The sun just appeared (it's been gloomy all day), and I hope it remains relatively nice for tonight's late night sand volleyball match. The nutritional challenge today... I'll be at a bar. I think I'll go for a rum and coke and a grilled chicken sandwich (with fruit instead of fries). The hard liquor is better than beer, but I'm not fooling myself. I better nurse that drink til gametime.
222! The number we've waited for! Next stop.... 219! Maybe if I just order an ice tea instead...
See ya!
Frank
Hi there! Just a quick minute to check in. Super busy at work today. It's 2pm and I have 7 "Must Happen" items on my list (usually at this time I have, about 3). Thank goodness I'm focused and well fed.
Solid workout this morning. Added "interval training" to my elliptical routine. Proved I was dogging it on the machines... the miles and calories weren't adding up. Jillian Michaels suggested the following high-intensity cardio workout: 30 second all-out sprint, 30 second recovery. Then add 15 seconds to each (45 sprint, 45 recovery). Add 15 seconds each time, building all the way to a 90 second sprint, followed by a 90 second recovery. Then pyramid back down to 30 seconds. And then repeat the whole cycle! Man! My heartrate shot up right away! and the miles! I managed just over 5 miles in 45 minutes, with 760 calories burned! Sweet! Those are the kinds of numbers I saw last year, when I was going all out, every morning, in the height of a very stressful time (divorce). The stress is gone. I've found a way to recreate the workout. Sweat-drippingly excellent!
and 222 on the scale this morning! Thank goodness! I ate some very late ice cream last night (slathered in butterscotch and chocolate sauces, whipped cream and sprinkles! Hey, go big or go home, I say!). Ron (from The Biggest Loser) said it best when he said: "What was the occasional must now become the constant, and what was constant before must now be very rare" (referring to exercise, nutrition and junk food).
Have a great day! The sun just appeared (it's been gloomy all day), and I hope it remains relatively nice for tonight's late night sand volleyball match. The nutritional challenge today... I'll be at a bar. I think I'll go for a rum and coke and a grilled chicken sandwich (with fruit instead of fries). The hard liquor is better than beer, but I'm not fooling myself. I better nurse that drink til gametime.
222! The number we've waited for! Next stop.... 219! Maybe if I just order an ice tea instead...
See ya!
Frank
Monday, June 1, 2009
226.5 (49.5) Serves Me Right for Being Organized
Good afternoon and Feliz Lunes, and even... Greetings from June 1st!
I've been getting progressively lighter at the start of every week in May. The trend has even continued into June.
5/11: 230.5#
5/18: 229.5#
5/26: 228#
6/1: 226.5#
Thank goodness I jot down my day's weight in our weekly staff meetings... makes it easy to see a month in a glance. Last Thursday and Friday I had raced down to 221.... and with 226 to start the week, well, it's just nice to see a general downwards trend. I know how it happens, but separating the emotions from the simple math... that continues to be a challenge.
Monday sand volleyball starts tonight, just in time to interfere with our Monday indoor playoffs! blech! 6:30 quarterfinals (indoor), and 3 of my 4 sand players are indoors (myself included). The sand team rallied and found 3 subs for the 7:10 match (so Laura wouldn't be on the sand alone). And then today was a comedy of Keystone Capers proportions when our schedule changed to a 6:30 sand start, and then changed back to the (original) 7:10 first game! Normally I procrastinate and so these little hiccoughs would correct themselves, but no, not this time! To untangle this lil knot translated to 5 emails and 3 texts to the whole team over the course of 4 hours. That's my punishment for being organized (and for flirting with the league coordinator, Jessica!). I'm on friendly terms with Jess, so naturally my team is the one that is bumped back and forth in the time slots.
Anyone see a pattern? How is it that I entangle myself with all these women and have nothing of value to show for it? I'm interested in the wrong women, or my strategy is flawed. Broccoli I understand. Relationships, not so much. Although ACTUALLY, this an ideal situation for asking Jessica out. My best dates are those that come from a humorous start. Hmmm... patience is my watchword. The single life is starting to agree with me, as if colors are returning to my everyday world (it's now almost 13 months since the divorce).
Alright. Back to formula. new plan: relax and laugh a little more. This is all "Much Ado About Nothing!" (Thanks Will!) These are truly... nice problems to have.
Take care! Have a good night! Cross your fingers for no rain. Thunderstorms (are) expected!
Frank
p.s. great workout this morning! Only 30 minutes of cardio, but solid numbers on the weights. My workout gloves really put me in the right mindset to push through my limitations on the weightlifting.
I've been getting progressively lighter at the start of every week in May. The trend has even continued into June.
5/11: 230.5#
5/18: 229.5#
5/26: 228#
6/1: 226.5#
Thank goodness I jot down my day's weight in our weekly staff meetings... makes it easy to see a month in a glance. Last Thursday and Friday I had raced down to 221.... and with 226 to start the week, well, it's just nice to see a general downwards trend. I know how it happens, but separating the emotions from the simple math... that continues to be a challenge.
Monday sand volleyball starts tonight, just in time to interfere with our Monday indoor playoffs! blech! 6:30 quarterfinals (indoor), and 3 of my 4 sand players are indoors (myself included). The sand team rallied and found 3 subs for the 7:10 match (so Laura wouldn't be on the sand alone). And then today was a comedy of Keystone Capers proportions when our schedule changed to a 6:30 sand start, and then changed back to the (original) 7:10 first game! Normally I procrastinate and so these little hiccoughs would correct themselves, but no, not this time! To untangle this lil knot translated to 5 emails and 3 texts to the whole team over the course of 4 hours. That's my punishment for being organized (and for flirting with the league coordinator, Jessica!). I'm on friendly terms with Jess, so naturally my team is the one that is bumped back and forth in the time slots.
Anyone see a pattern? How is it that I entangle myself with all these women and have nothing of value to show for it? I'm interested in the wrong women, or my strategy is flawed. Broccoli I understand. Relationships, not so much. Although ACTUALLY, this an ideal situation for asking Jessica out. My best dates are those that come from a humorous start. Hmmm... patience is my watchword. The single life is starting to agree with me, as if colors are returning to my everyday world (it's now almost 13 months since the divorce).
Alright. Back to formula. new plan: relax and laugh a little more. This is all "Much Ado About Nothing!" (Thanks Will!) These are truly... nice problems to have.
Take care! Have a good night! Cross your fingers for no rain. Thunderstorms (are) expected!
Frank
p.s. great workout this morning! Only 30 minutes of cardio, but solid numbers on the weights. My workout gloves really put me in the right mindset to push through my limitations on the weightlifting.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
226 and a Noon Start to the Day
Hey hey!
2 weekend posts! What is happening?!? I'm supposed to be outside when the good weather rolls around! Well, one minute inside and then an hour out in the sun. That's the way to do it.
Sunday and sunny. Played 6 hours of sand volleyball last night, starting at 4pm! 2 on 2 all the way up to 4 on 5. My sand legs are still on back order, but my passing has improved. Just gotta get wayyyy down close to the ground, bending my knees to more effectively absorb the impact of the first serve. As Yoda often reminded Luke: "Control. Control. You MUST learn control!" As with Jedi, so with volleyball...
226 and no surprise. 6 hours of beer and then 2 drive-thrus (White Castle and McDonald's) at near midnight. Blech. I'm at the office now (2pm) and I'm leaving at 3:30 to get in a nice long, deliberate workout. 90 minutes of cardio and then a full rotation of weights (9 machines). 219 is on my mind. Under 220 is the weight where I start thinking about new jeans and smaller waist sizes. Under 220 is a great place to be. Under 220... now we're cooking with gas!
Take care!
Frank
2 weekend posts! What is happening?!? I'm supposed to be outside when the good weather rolls around! Well, one minute inside and then an hour out in the sun. That's the way to do it.
Sunday and sunny. Played 6 hours of sand volleyball last night, starting at 4pm! 2 on 2 all the way up to 4 on 5. My sand legs are still on back order, but my passing has improved. Just gotta get wayyyy down close to the ground, bending my knees to more effectively absorb the impact of the first serve. As Yoda often reminded Luke: "Control. Control. You MUST learn control!" As with Jedi, so with volleyball...
226 and no surprise. 6 hours of beer and then 2 drive-thrus (White Castle and McDonald's) at near midnight. Blech. I'm at the office now (2pm) and I'm leaving at 3:30 to get in a nice long, deliberate workout. 90 minutes of cardio and then a full rotation of weights (9 machines). 219 is on my mind. Under 220 is the weight where I start thinking about new jeans and smaller waist sizes. Under 220 is a great place to be. Under 220... now we're cooking with gas!
Take care!
Frank
Saturday, May 30, 2009
225 (48) Feeling Blue
The waning days of May... overcast, no rain and a lovely quiet Saturday.
I hope you're well.
225 BEFORE a pancake, egg & sausage breakfast. Coffee with milk and sugar, Barlean's Greens (cold) mixed with room temperature Gatorade (hard to drink this green juice when it's warm), and a half glass of OJ. Yum! I did the dishes and cleaned the kitchen to my favorite workout music. A very good morning.
So I'm feeling blue... because I've got a blue shirt on, blue jeans, and the general "less than thrilled" feeling of being stood up on yet another May Saturday morning. I'm going to stop accepting text messages from gorgeous women before noon on Saturdays... unless they're texting me from the other room, that is...
(today, a lovely brunette texted me to cancel on morning volleyball. It's now morphed into late afternoon/evening volleyball up in Gages Lake).
Just popped into the office to place a few orders. Leaving in an hour. Nice to mark the day, especially as most weekends (with regards to nutrition and exercise) are only loosely recorded in my journal.
Take care! Talk to you soon,
Frank
I hope you're well.
225 BEFORE a pancake, egg & sausage breakfast. Coffee with milk and sugar, Barlean's Greens (cold) mixed with room temperature Gatorade (hard to drink this green juice when it's warm), and a half glass of OJ. Yum! I did the dishes and cleaned the kitchen to my favorite workout music. A very good morning.
So I'm feeling blue... because I've got a blue shirt on, blue jeans, and the general "less than thrilled" feeling of being stood up on yet another May Saturday morning. I'm going to stop accepting text messages from gorgeous women before noon on Saturdays... unless they're texting me from the other room, that is...
(today, a lovely brunette texted me to cancel on morning volleyball. It's now morphed into late afternoon/evening volleyball up in Gages Lake).
Just popped into the office to place a few orders. Leaving in an hour. Nice to mark the day, especially as most weekends (with regards to nutrition and exercise) are only loosely recorded in my journal.
Take care! Talk to you soon,
Frank
Friday, May 29, 2009
221 (44) Broccoli Breath and Weekend Confirmed
Good morning!
For a quick recap, the first number in my title is my current weight (in pounds). The second number, in parentheses, is the amount of weight left to lose in order to achieve the (ideal) mid-range weight of 177 pounds. Online sources agree that a funny, good-looking (humble) and brainy 6'4" white male should weigh around 177 (and no more than 204). The exercise continues.
so.... where were we? ahh yes... GOOD MORNING!
man, the broccoli today.... is very... broccoli'ish. aka: potent aftertaste. Yum yum. Perhaps I should try steaming it occasionally. well... the bachelor that I am comes prepared with mouthwash at hand (one never knows when lovely ladies will appear at your elbow). Such is the nature of wily women.
Hey hey! 2 days of 221! I've held the weight ("Stay on target!") for 24 hours! Excellent! Not without help. 7 games of sand volleyball last night (I lost all 7, but had such a fun time playing! crazy!), asleep after midnight, and somehow found my way into the gym for an exceptional workout this morning (45 minutes on the elliptical, 8 minutes of very fast running on the treadmill, and then 30 minutes of solid weight lifting). Good stuff. I'm feeling strong, lean, and ready for the weekend. (side note: It's so funny how clothes can firm up the mindset. When I wear my weight-lifting gloves, I feel unstoppable.)
When the weekends roll around, I'm a bit "off the ranch", so to speak. I can control my diet in the office very effectively (I eat what I bring). It's a structured environment and there are lots of interesting distractions. 2 free days, however.... yeah, that can be a problem. I'm concerned. So... plan and scheme. In an hour (lunchtime) I'm going to give careful consideration to the food I'll have this weekend. Face it. The pizza is good, but I have little to no self control, so I'm better avoiding it and having an excellent salad instead. I've adopted a "scorched earth" policy when it comes to my favorite foods. Until I can demonstrate some self disclipine, I won't let myself near them.
Life is good today. I'm feeling balanced and at peace.
Have a great weekend! Get out there and enjoy the beautiful weather. mid-70s and not too buggy yet. Remember, these are the days we DREAM about as we're nestled under feet of snow in the oddly blue-white haze of December twilight.
Take care,
Frank
For a quick recap, the first number in my title is my current weight (in pounds). The second number, in parentheses, is the amount of weight left to lose in order to achieve the (ideal) mid-range weight of 177 pounds. Online sources agree that a funny, good-looking (humble) and brainy 6'4" white male should weigh around 177 (and no more than 204). The exercise continues.
so.... where were we? ahh yes... GOOD MORNING!
man, the broccoli today.... is very... broccoli'ish. aka: potent aftertaste. Yum yum. Perhaps I should try steaming it occasionally. well... the bachelor that I am comes prepared with mouthwash at hand (one never knows when lovely ladies will appear at your elbow). Such is the nature of wily women.
Hey hey! 2 days of 221! I've held the weight ("Stay on target!") for 24 hours! Excellent! Not without help. 7 games of sand volleyball last night (I lost all 7, but had such a fun time playing! crazy!), asleep after midnight, and somehow found my way into the gym for an exceptional workout this morning (45 minutes on the elliptical, 8 minutes of very fast running on the treadmill, and then 30 minutes of solid weight lifting). Good stuff. I'm feeling strong, lean, and ready for the weekend. (side note: It's so funny how clothes can firm up the mindset. When I wear my weight-lifting gloves, I feel unstoppable.)
When the weekends roll around, I'm a bit "off the ranch", so to speak. I can control my diet in the office very effectively (I eat what I bring). It's a structured environment and there are lots of interesting distractions. 2 free days, however.... yeah, that can be a problem. I'm concerned. So... plan and scheme. In an hour (lunchtime) I'm going to give careful consideration to the food I'll have this weekend. Face it. The pizza is good, but I have little to no self control, so I'm better avoiding it and having an excellent salad instead. I've adopted a "scorched earth" policy when it comes to my favorite foods. Until I can demonstrate some self disclipine, I won't let myself near them.
Life is good today. I'm feeling balanced and at peace.
Have a great weekend! Get out there and enjoy the beautiful weather. mid-70s and not too buggy yet. Remember, these are the days we DREAM about as we're nestled under feet of snow in the oddly blue-white haze of December twilight.
Take care,
Frank
Thursday, May 28, 2009
221 (44) Saute it Forward!
Good afternoon!
Gray and May... must be Chicago! No complaints though, for it is NOT raining (yet). 7 volleyball games tonight, all in the sand. Really don't want to cancel (or get soaked). I'd cross my fingers, but that would make it hard to typeoe.lalldl.a..e.;zae aknho See?
221! What happened? This is awesome! Thank you, evening bananas and almonds! Thank you brother-in-law, for pushing me out the door for an hour run last night (approx.5 miles). Thank you alarm clocks in the morning and 5am gym rats... you keep me there and happy and distracted from the tedium of consistency. So... HOW do I set aside more time for sleep? It's the missing puzzle piece...
Seriously though, 221! Yahoo! It's been a while since I've seen this number. In personal terms, this is 23 pounds lighter from the first entry in my exercise diary (3 years ago). It's also 34 pounds lighter than my heaviest recorded weight (in the foggy days of double order drive thrus and telling myself that "a night of volleyball is the same as a full workout"). I'm shaking my head and thinking of Jeff Goldblume's character in "The Big Chill" when he opined that rationalizations were more important than sex. "Ever gone a day without a juicy rationalization?" Good stuff, and VERY true.
So... a friend of mine dismissed my recent declaration that "I can't cook." She countered by saying that anyone can cook. "Can you read, Frank? Can you follow directions? You CAN cook." I tenderly pointed out that I AM illiterate, and that in a rather complicated Cyrano deBergerac'ian scheme, a secret earpiece and comedic situations have helped me navigate to the point where I was standing in front of her, claiming culinary naivete. She wasn't biting. Rats.
Well, the truth is that I don't take the time to prepare dishes outside of lunch. Take a look at a recent post where I show photos of my worktime meals... usually started on "a soft bed of baby spinach." I CAN make Cuban bread (warm, dense and delicious, just like me! haha), and I'm a whiz at Jello pretzel salad and graham cracker cookies (with a dash of butterscotch). Heck, I've even cut my teeth on Jello shots this year! (250 shots, flavored with vodka, tequila and, my favorite: amaretto!). So I DO cook, just not often or exotic dishes. Life will continue and I will add to my repertoire.
Alright... time to go. The gym is calling, as is that elusive number.... 219! (I whispered that number, by the way). Seems within reach. We're at the pinnacle of the week's physical training. Why not make a run for the sun?
Have a great night. Thanks for reading!
Frank
p.s. in a surprise stomach-churning turn of events, I'm playing volleyball tonight against the recent ex-girlfriend who is "still waiting for (/stalking) me". I'm only half kidding when I say... please don't do me any harm. We had a good run. The run is done. It's my hope that you can hang on to the good memories and carry them on into a bright future. Or as my culinary-minded friend would say... "Saute it forward."
F
Gray and May... must be Chicago! No complaints though, for it is NOT raining (yet). 7 volleyball games tonight, all in the sand. Really don't want to cancel (or get soaked). I'd cross my fingers, but that would make it hard to typeoe.lalldl.a..e.;zae aknho See?
221! What happened? This is awesome! Thank you, evening bananas and almonds! Thank you brother-in-law, for pushing me out the door for an hour run last night (approx.5 miles). Thank you alarm clocks in the morning and 5am gym rats... you keep me there and happy and distracted from the tedium of consistency. So... HOW do I set aside more time for sleep? It's the missing puzzle piece...
Seriously though, 221! Yahoo! It's been a while since I've seen this number. In personal terms, this is 23 pounds lighter from the first entry in my exercise diary (3 years ago). It's also 34 pounds lighter than my heaviest recorded weight (in the foggy days of double order drive thrus and telling myself that "a night of volleyball is the same as a full workout"). I'm shaking my head and thinking of Jeff Goldblume's character in "The Big Chill" when he opined that rationalizations were more important than sex. "Ever gone a day without a juicy rationalization?" Good stuff, and VERY true.
So... a friend of mine dismissed my recent declaration that "I can't cook." She countered by saying that anyone can cook. "Can you read, Frank? Can you follow directions? You CAN cook." I tenderly pointed out that I AM illiterate, and that in a rather complicated Cyrano deBergerac'ian scheme, a secret earpiece and comedic situations have helped me navigate to the point where I was standing in front of her, claiming culinary naivete. She wasn't biting. Rats.
Well, the truth is that I don't take the time to prepare dishes outside of lunch. Take a look at a recent post where I show photos of my worktime meals... usually started on "a soft bed of baby spinach." I CAN make Cuban bread (warm, dense and delicious, just like me! haha), and I'm a whiz at Jello pretzel salad and graham cracker cookies (with a dash of butterscotch). Heck, I've even cut my teeth on Jello shots this year! (250 shots, flavored with vodka, tequila and, my favorite: amaretto!). So I DO cook, just not often or exotic dishes. Life will continue and I will add to my repertoire.
Alright... time to go. The gym is calling, as is that elusive number.... 219! (I whispered that number, by the way). Seems within reach. We're at the pinnacle of the week's physical training. Why not make a run for the sun?
Have a great night. Thanks for reading!
Frank
p.s. in a surprise stomach-churning turn of events, I'm playing volleyball tonight against the recent ex-girlfriend who is "still waiting for (/stalking) me". I'm only half kidding when I say... please don't do me any harm. We had a good run. The run is done. It's my hope that you can hang on to the good memories and carry them on into a bright future. Or as my culinary-minded friend would say... "Saute it forward."
F
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