Happy New Year!

We're off to Wangarrata for the next few days- so 'Happy New Year' to everybody!! I'm going to make some good and hopefully achievable resolutions for 2009. See y'all next year.

3 more meringues ..................

Only 3 more meringues and then they're finished, Christmas cake almost all gone, nuts have been demolished and rest of the turkey can go to the dog! Phew- that was hard work!
Does anyone else work on this theory?????????????? Perhaps I should discover the bin!!

The day after.....

Christmas was such fun this year. Had both our kids and their partners and grandchildren - plus mother in law and a friend. Tahlia and Eboni were such good girls and enjoyed all their pressies. It was a day full of family and warmth.
Boxing day feels really flat. I always miss our two children when they leave, and after the house full it seems very empty. Went for a bike ride this afternoon with my new mp3 player. Apparently I sing very loudly and out of tune with it- oh well- I guess the moo cows, horpees and birdies don't really care! ( oops.....I've been around children too much)
Did anyone brave the sales today? I don't know how people can face the shops so soon after Chrissy.

OUCH

Yesterdays wishywashy workout has turned into a major muscle squeeze!!!!

A seniors moment

What I meant to say in my previous blog and forgot was - Merry Christmas to everyone! Hope you all have a great day with family and friends. Stay safe and eat well. xxooxx

Christmas and all that stuff

I had such a lovely surprise on Monday with my 50's class. Unbeknownst to me they had got together when I was on holiday and arranged a collection to get me a gift voucher for Christmas and also arranged that the 'cuppa' we have after the class was to become a rather grand 'Christmas afternoon tea'. To say I was gobsmacked would be an understatement!! I spent the rest of the day on my gym shift with a silly grin on my face and a real feeling of warmth and appreciation. They are a lovely group of ladies!

Today I had a rather reluctant workout. It's funny how sometimes it's easy to be fired up and raring to go and others ( like today) everything was a struggle. I revisisted the leg press and found I could only squeeze out a pathetic 80kg. I haven't done that machine for a while but the last time I was making 100kg with some effort. I then dallied around the chest press and dumbells and then did a bit of back and tummy but all in all- a rather wishywashy affair! I think my New Years Resolution had better be something to get me on track and motivated.

This year we had a Christmas celebration before Christmas with some of my family. This will be the first year that we haven't actually got together on Christmas day. Had a BBQ and lots of Christmas cheer. I always feel 'huge' next to my big sister!!

Thought it was about time I shared some of our holidays pics with everybody!! The dust has settled finally!

This bird is a bleeding heart pigeon from the Phillipines. I thought it was amazing.

The pic of me is of my greatest pleasure ! A top loader that I can ADD socks to and it DOESN'T take 2 HOURS to complete a load. Guess who has a front loader!!!! Grrrrrrr

And this is the path around Lake Eacham. A beautiful spot. Lots of people swimming- next time I def take my bathers!

Fat and Full in PD

Well...here we are in Port Douglas!! It's just awesome this weather- warm and muggy with a faint breeze. I just love it. At the moment I've just succombed to one of these wickedly delightful ice creams- hence the title of this blog!
I've also just finished reading ' Nights in Rodanthe'. I'm wondering if it was written with a movie in mind or whether cos I know it's been made into a movie I'm seeing it like that. It just reads a bit 'movie like' which is a shame cos the story is ok. I'm going to see the movie/dvd just for interests sake.
Tomorrow we're heading to Ravenshoe to have a ride on the steam train. A delightful experience that we/ve done before and well worth doing again. Last time at the end of the line when they have to change the train around, there was a magic show. We all sat on improvised chairs in the middle of the paddock with this older gentleman doing his magic tricks- it was 'perfect'!!

Graduation, ends and holidays

Graduation of the students from TAFE was a very emotional affair. It was an end of an era for them and for staff as this program has been running for about 12 years. It was really a sad event with lots of emotion. I felt like I had done about 10 rounds in the ring with Mohammed Ali!
Next comes my holida -only 2 more sleeps and then we're off to Port Douglas again! I've just packed my bags and now starting to make lists- just can't wait!

Nights in Rodanthe

I recently read a book by Nicholas Sparks- not that I picked it out for any reason other than I was trawling the library shelves and just took pot luck. Really enjoyed it so looked for some more ... and ... lo and behold... I find " Nights in Rodanthe"!. Then I do a google search and find he's had lots of books made into movies- 'Message in a Bottle' & 'The Notebook' are just a couple. After Deb's vitriolic assessment of the movie I'll be interested to see what it's like. I'll give my critique just as soon as I can!

One more week!

One more week of tafe and then that's it- maybe forever! I've so enjoyed this year of teaching adults but in their wisdom they've scrapped this course which is really disappointing to both staff and definitely the students. They have been a great bunch of people to work with- very enthused and heaps of fun. This was a year I didn't expect so I suppose I will look at it as a bonus. We'll see what the new year brings as far as work goes. I'm enjoying the gym, especially my 50's group but there is still room for other work if it appears!

The Dress!!

This is 'the dress' after the event when we got back home. I think I was trying a triceppy thing and failing dismally but at least it looks a bit more animated than the other pics! I had some great group shots which I would have loved to have posted on here but I do hesitate when the rest of the group haven't given permission. I would paste this blog with pictures of my kids and grandchildren if I could- but I guess privacy can be an issue

Anyway- a fabulous night. A lovely wedding- very moving, very well planned and an early finish which was good for a Sunday night. I felt good in my dress but I thinkI may have lost it as my daughter was eyeing it off!!! lol

Def 'Last Minute'!!

Well...at the 11th hour....I finally found 'the dress'! I've been hunting for weeks now for a dress for the wedding on Sunday and had come to the conclusion that there was no dress in this hemisphere that I could possibly wear. Well.... maybe I was a bit hasty in my assessment cos today I had the briefest of looks and found something that seems to fit all needs!
1. not black
2. not flouncy, too gathered or frilly
3. not a tie belt at the back
4. not too tight
5, not too voluminous
6. there's lots of 'nots' aren' t there??

Anyway I found it and when I can I'll post a pic on here. Suffice to say- its a purply blue satiny type of dress, not too 'foofy' and basically fits ( but only if I wear my most padded bra with inserts - which is really sad as the dress is already only a size 8!!) I like it.

Guess what??????

Exciting news folks- I'm going to be a granny again!!!! Baby number 3- due in July!!
How good is that?

More mistakes!

Strewth! I must have been having a senior nanna nap in number 3!!
inadvertently should read inadvertAntly!!!!

Spelling test

Reason Number 3- should read 'TOO big'!! I hate spelling errors!!

My Pants are falling down!

I haven't eaten chocolate for about a month now and no longer crave it! YIPPEE! I now find my clothes are a lot looser and my pants keep falling down! I've also started a 'sort of 12 week challenge' with a friend ( may have mentioned that about 3 weeks ago!). Haven't been all that committed but I have tried to keep the exercise up and THINK about what I put in my mouth. I guess my looser pants could be because
1. I'm exercising more effectively and consistently and burning heaps of calories
2. I'm being extra good about what I eat.
3. I've inadvertently bought pants a size to big
4. They're making all the sizes bigger.
5. I ate so much chocolate before that just cutting that out has reduced my calorie intake ENORMOUSLY!!

Sad to say- I opt for reason number 5!!!

These are my latest acquisitions!



Fancy shoes that I just couldn't resist! Gotmy nephew's wedding to go to in just two weeks. I've hunted and hunted for a dress but came up with zilch!! I think these babies will brighten up my LBD ( of which I have several that will be eminently suitable)!!





This was a more useful purchase. Very needed and now we have no excuse for poorly vacuumed floors!

yes!!!

YAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
I did it!!!!!!

no escaping- the time is nigh!!

Saturday!! Only two more sleeps and then I get to face my demons- my aerobic demons! This must be one of the most challenging things I have ever undertaken! I'd put it right next door to 'public speaking'. I think it's the 'being on show and maybe failing' that has me trembling in my sneakers. I've practised, and practised and practised- until I wake at night and have the music resounding in my head and going over the steps!!. I just need to be able to do this in 'automatic' cos if I think about what I'm doing I know I'm going to forget. I'll keep you posted!. now where was I???............... Oh I know- 'step tap right, easy walk right, calf pumps on the spot......let's take it from the top girls.....................!!!!!!

Aerobics Instructor?? I MIGHT make it!

Second session went really well- all things considered. I wasn't the worst which is always helpful!
I've put in some practice and hopefully will be ok next Saturday. We have to prepare the 'conditioning' part ( crunches, pushups, dips etc) The practice of this means my poor little muscles are about to give out! lol.

Group instructor or two left feet!!

Second session of 'learning to be an aerobics instructor' coming up on Saturday. Well.....I was ready to throw in the towel this week- that's right- to quit! To give up! To Pike out! To wimp out!! I have never felt so inept! In the end I rang my lovely instructor and she managed to instill some confidence ( by assuring me I wasn't the ONLY one feeling like that- amazing what safety there is in numbers!) and giving me a simplified homework program and the assurance that the 'music is my friend'! lol- some friend!! Anyway- I went home, lovingly spoke to the cd player and caressed it into action and then lo and behold- things seemed to work out. I actually listened to the music instead of panicking and steps seemed to flow and cues started sprouting forth. I'll keep you informed of whether this continued into actually doing it in front of all the others.

Birthday Girl

My little girl is 28 today! Can't believe how the time has gone. Saw her yesterday which was lovely. Rang her today and left a message and felt a bit sad that I didn't get to actually talk to her- thought about all those years ago when she was so dependent. Then she rang to tell me what a wonderful day she has had and to top it off her boyfriend had made her dinner and also a cake with sparklers! How good was that! I'm glad she had a happy day. We're going to see her Thursday.

Group fitness training

Had my first session in learning how to be a freestyle group fitness instructor. All I can say is that I need to do my homework- and fast!!! You have to think of about 5 things at once- maybe I was a man in a former life, I just know it was really difficult. It's the counting, cueing, knowing the blocks of music and where it all is and finally the movement that has to be done. EEEEKKKK
On the calorie count- I had banana bread at Maccas ( when I was caught short and NEEDED something) I normally would have had the cookies but figured that maybe the banana bread had some nutritional value and hopefully no trans fats. I just checked it on calorie king and it had a whopping 600 + calories!!! Better make sure I'm prepared next time.

the same 12 week challenge!

3 posts in one day!! That's a bit much but I did have to share this article with you . After becoming slightly paranoid about the calories I was consuming and looking at everything with 'calorie' eyes, I turned on the pc and loaded up Yahoo and found this article about fitness and weight loss that made me laugh- perhaps the yahoolians were watching me and decided I needed to read it!

12 week challenge!

I have NEVER counted calories before and don't intend to go down that path BUT I thought it would be good to have some idea of what I have consumed today ( or will have by the end of the day) to my horror- I will be at least 277 calories over based on a 1200 calorie intake. I have done NO exercise today so that won't help but it has shaken me a bit. I didn't realise that I consumed so much. As I said- I'm not really going down that path and I don't vary much in weight and don't really need to lose much- but it has shattered me a bit- at least for the next 5 minutes until I have my next 'snack fix'!!!

12 week challenge- here I come!

Met my good friend Cheryl this week for a start for our 12 week challenge that we are both going to do! It's something we've both thought of for some time so now was the time to begin- hopefully we will inspire each other and keep each other honest!. She is extremely fit and certainly doesn't need to lose weight- I guess for both of us it's a matter of improving our diets and being consistent and getting to be the best we can. So........ for the past two days I've been pretty good diet wise. Trying to eat sensibly and snack on GOOD things. Found out that a pkt of liquorice all sorts has about 900 calories in them!! YIKES!!!! Gotta resist them! The exercise part isn't nearly as difficult. I'll keep my progress posted on here and she and I are meeting each week to discuss how we are going. We meet about 4 times in the week to run/walk/cycle and swim so now I can add 'discussion' as well. Wish me luck- I'm not too good at consistency.

Kerryn's Day!!

Had a really interesting afternoon on Saturday- went to see the body building comp. which was quite amazing! All those brown bodies!!! The best of it was Kek. It made it all the more interesting actually knowing ( well sort of knowing) someone up there and realising all the hard work that has gone into the preparation. Kerryn looked amazing and the bikini was dazzling!! I want one! I want one! I also want the body that was in it!!! I'd love to think I had the determination to follow a goal like that to the end, but not sure I could stay the distance. I haven't even completed a 12 week challenge- I think I only made it to about 3 weeks if that!
You looked fantastic Kerryn and I really admire your dedication and perserverence. It was great to talk to you and actually meet you.

The dress!

I'm on a search for a 'dress'! Have you any idea how hard that is? Found one that I really liked only my two sisters didn't think it was all that good and husband finally said in desperation ( cos he didn't like it) that it made me look 'fat and frumpy'!!)
I think I've found another that seems ok- only it was too small! They are never too small around the top- but it was rather snug around the hips. They're getting a bigger size in - so.... in order to comfort myself and to aid the cause... I've been busy eating liquorice allsorts! That's really going to help. If I get this one I'll post a pic on here of it- only NO ONE is allowed to say they don't like it!!

Goals!!

After reading Kek's blog about setting new goals it prompted me into action! I've been fluffing around it seems - doing bits and pieces of fitness stuff but nothing really systematic or working towards anything in particular. I'm really pleased with my running now. Although it doesn't seem much, for me at this stage it's a huge improvement. I can now run 3km without stopping and WITHOUT hurting my foot! YAH. So as far as running goals- I think I should probably just have maintenance for the present time. Swimming is an area where I could definitely improve!! However I'm enjoying now and don't want to end up hating it which would just make me want to give it up completely. Biking is going well and steadily improving- but don't want to go in any events at the moment. So- that leaves me gym/weights as far as I can see or body improvements. So- (again) what I'm going to aim for is to be able to do the assisted pullup on 10kg for at least 2 x 10 reps. This shouldn't be too hard. Then to be able to do unassisted pullups - at least 5 reps. I can do 2 and half so I only need to double my previous best! lol We'll see how I go with that one. In retrospect- I think aiming at running a 10k sounds a lot more fun but I MUSTN'T!!!!!

Footy Day!!!

Footy Day on Monday for my guys at TAFE. Guess I'll stun them with my regalia!!. Poor D's haven't really shone this season have they?

It's all a bit of fun and none of us take it really seriously- except that 'black and white ' crowd!

Anyone out there a footy freak??

Foot Update

My foot is going so well. Not perfect- but managing to withstand the running I'm doing ( which isn't a huge amount , but more than I have been) Last week my calves got sore, especially one of them and I can't for the life of me think of what I did to cause it!! However that too is improving. I read about how others train really hard and wish I could too- however I know if I did then I'd suffer the consequences. Getting old is a real buggar sometimes!!!

This and that

I've found a new swimming pool ( new to me and new as in just opened!!) It's a 25m and therefore seems much more achievable. The other pool I swim at has a dome shaped soft roof , a long draughty corridor to get to it and you might as well be in a big hole as there is no way you can see out! Well this new pool is full of glass windows which lets in light, sunrise and green outside. It's just a lovely place to be, I'm sure I swim better in it.
This afternoon I had a rare day at home. I was so industrious- cleaned and tidied the house more or less from top to bottom ( as long as you don't open any cupboards!) a really good feeling.

Sore bits

I have sore - lats, traps, tri's, bi's, glutes, hammies, abs, pecs...now let me see... are there any other bits of me that I've missed out????? Nope- I think that's it! Yes...that's right.... I got trained!!!! I specified that I didn't want heavy weights ( ever mindful of my injury list) but wanted to incorporate more balance exercises. I was a bit apprehensive- being a princess like creature at the best of times. However I LOVED it!!! Felt really good and was great to have someone else correcting technique. I did pushups on the bosu- apparently I was dropping my hips. Well... let me tell you - raising them up a bit sure did put more weight on my poor little arms! Tuesday is rolling around again and I'm feeling a bit apprehensive again- lol

Running in Mossman Gorge- Far North Qld. I always manage to run here despite injuries. It's my 'therapeutic challenge'!! Never failed yet!














While all you other 'Melbournites' were freezing in snow conditions- here I was- basking in the sun at Cairns! That's right- I know you hate me!!! lol
















Couldn't possibly resist using this glorious sand at Cape Tribulation for a gym. It just 'begged' to have some activity on it! lol


We were happy then! And aren't we clever to have managed the 'automatic
function on the camera!

I'm now done with showing off and skiting. That's it folks for another year!!!

A very boring mish-mash of unrelated information

Where has my holiday gone???? It seems like it never happened!! Not fair!! I've been very slack with blogging too- just survived this week with nothing really to report. I'm getting personally trained tomorrow so hopefully will survive that. The best thing that happened this weekend ( lol- I've just remembered) is that I ran 3 km straight ( ie no walking inbetween) and my foot has survived!! Yaaahhhhh- on the way back to recovery! I think I'll keep it at 3 km for a while and just see how it goes- the temptation is ALWAYS to go further so we'll just see how disciplined I can be!!

Where's the food!!

You promised me I could have something to eat!!!

Here at Last!

I'm sitting here in my shorts and tshirt with sunnies and hat on my head and it is AWESOME!!!! So lovely and warm and more importantly- I'm on holiday which sweetens everything. I believe this weekend it will be 11 degrees, rain and cold in Melbourne!!!! YAAAAHHHH- that makes it even sweeter!

Up Up and Away!!

2 more sleeps and counting!!!

Busy busy week to countdown!!

Only 4 more sleeps! And heaps to do it seems! I'm working late Monday and Wednesday and I think we'll need to leave about 5.30am on Thursday. I was going to pack tonight but somehow the night has escaped me and the thought of bed is far more enticing. I've prepared work for the Tafe classes for when I'm away and gathered stuff together for the two 'fifties' classes I do at the gym. Phew- all I need to do is get through the week ( and make the church soup) and get on that plane. Can hardly wait!!!

buying online

Do many others buy things online? I've only ever bought two ( now make that 3) books online. The first was a pony book that I loved when I was a kid and couldn't resist getting it again ( and YES I did reread it!!) Had to get a postal order to pay for it- and that caused me a bit of grief and a few trips back and forth to the PO with the address etc! The second was a fitness book from o/s - so to pay for that we had to get my sister in law to write a cheque ( from England) and we eventually repaid her when we went over! I've now bought my 3rd book ( meditations) and being a more enlightened buyer- I used my mastercard which I got especially to buy stuff on here. It's far too easy though, just a few numbers and 'pooff'- I've bought it!!

Love my Saturdays!

I have got a really good routine going here on Saturdays. Start with a run/walk ( and have been doing this for years!) Ran about 4kms today and walked about 8kms. Then we've been going to the gym and working out and in the afternoon it's a bike ride! Had the most lovely bike ride today. We rode about 12km to Warburton and then joined the 'sidewalk set' and had latte and ( in lowered voice so Kek can't hear) a muffin! Then we rode the 12km back. I feel fabulous! A hot shower and then raring to go again. We often go dancing Saturday night and then off for a walk in the morning ( 6.30am with a friend) I love my active weekends!!!

Shopping

I seemed to have done a bit of shopping lately. Went shopping with my older sister and her daughter and was taken firmly in hand with comments of - stop wearing so much black- don't be so unadventurous- try different things- stop wearing trackky daks. Consequently I came home with a 'foofy white shirt' which I don't think I will ever wear!! However, I did try to take heed of some of this advice and since then I have bought a pair of GREY trackky daks and a beige t-shirt, both of which I know I will wear. I also tried on a purple DRESS ( my goodness I'd almost forgotten I had legs!) for my nephew's wedding in November. Didn't buy it but will go back and have another look. It was really nice with no 'foof' or frill in sight! I would have loved wearing all the latest fashions ( ie babydoll foofy styles etc) 30 years ago and I don't really like tailored or jackety type things so I guess I'm somewhere inbetween- lol- in good old trackky daks and windcheaters!!

Boring news

It seems to have been ages since I last blogged on here! I was very industrious yesterday and cleaned out the fridge! It's amazing what is stored in the back of it! ( only kidding). However it does give a good feeling to really scrub it out.
My foot is going really well. I'm running a bit more each week and it seems to be taking it ok. When I say 'running more' it's still only baby steps for me. I run 2 mins on treadmill and then walk 1 min and keep this up for 8 mins of running. This week I increased it to 2 mins 15 secs of running and 45 secs of walking! Whoooweeeeeee.....................I'll be running a marathon soon - when I'm 120!! However from having a mightily sore foot that ached all the time to this is a real improvement and at least I get to feel the wind in my hair again.

It's that time again!!!

Hmmmm....let me see

• Haircut - check!


• pedicure- appointment made


• dog to kennel- booking made


• cats looked after- arrangements made

Yep.....just about all organised.....just waiting for August 7th then I'm OFF!!!!!!

off to here again!!

Resting Place

Today we scattered the remaining half of our parents' ashes.

It completed their journey. We spread them in the Dandenongs overlooking the Silvan Dam. A lovely memorable spot.

Haha- I knew I had a pic somewhere of my stunning swimming style!!

confession time

I have a confession to make.........I think I actually enjoy swimming! After years of saying how much I hate it I find that I LOVE the way I feel afterwards and on Friday I really found the whole ordeal relaxing! I'm still really bad at it BUT I have reduced the size of the flippers I use and I do more laps of freestyle than I was. When are the next olympics?????

My Energetic Weekend

Had a great weekend in Echuca. As promised- just a weekend of decadence and indulgence!!
This is how dry it is in this part of Victoria. The Campaspe River not flowing very freely!












At one of our many 'watering holes'! Taken at Deniliquin- very peaceful and lots of sun!












This track was made for running- but I PROMISED my "Needleman' that I wouldn't run this week:((((((













I love this road- it's the bypass on the Hume Highway- at night it is lit up and therefore is nicknamed ( by me) as the 'pretty road'! lol

I'm off to Echuca

While all you brave and incredibly engergetic people are heading to the Gold Coast to do the half and full marathon, I'm heading to Echuca for a weekend of indulgence and decadence!! I'll bring some pics back of our wicked ways. Good luck to all who are competing, I would just LOVE to be able to do that too. Maybe soon!

My foot - AGAIN

Went to the 'needleman' again today , thinking, will I take my 'brave pills' and tell him he was NOT going to put those needles anywhere near me, when he took the lead and said he was just doing massage ( or at least trigger point therapy) !! Phew- I didn't have to look chicken after all. It was no less uncomfortable than the previous week but somehow there is something unnatural about having sharp things stuck on your skin whereas the human touch seems ok!!!
Foot is still there and hopefully improving. Not allowed to run this week:((((((((((

My New Bike- picture coming!

I'm loving my new bike! I've been on two rides so far and have found it easy easy!!. The part coming home is all up hill and I hardly puff. I'm sure it's more to do with the riding position and gearing although I'm probably more 'bike fit' than I've been before. I'll put a pic of it on here just as soon as I have camera and bike together!
I've joined up my old gym and finding it terrific! Going to do the cycle class on Wednesday mornings and today I slid in just before it closed to do a workout. Now that leaves me free tomorrow morning to swim. I've been far more consistent with exercise these past few weeks and really enjoying the feeling it's giving me. When I wake up in the morning it's- 'what can I get into today!!!"

These two boys are my nearest NEIGHbours (lol couldn't resist that!)

They keep looming over the fence when I put our dog in his pen. I relented and gave them some apples and now they are whickering at me every time they see me! They have escaped from their home into next doors paddock and are not very well looked after. The chestnut is awfully skinny- I'm tempted to buy some chaff and give into their emotional blackmail!! They are just gorgeous!

Dry Needling

I felt a bit like a human pin cushion today! Went to see a Myotherapist and experienced dry needling for the very first time. I.m hoping it might just put the finishing touches to my plantar fasciitis. I can tell you though- it was an uncomfortable experience!!

Bought a bike this weekend!!! It was the second part of my birthday pressie. I'm going to pick it up next weekend ( we didn't have the bike rack with us). When I get it I'll proudly put a pic on here as long as everyone promises not to laugh!! It's rather an old ladies bike- very upright, short frame and solid!!! ( sounds a bit like me!) I could have got a pink bike with flowers painted all over the mudguards but even I baulked at that! This one is actually great. I'm not the worlds best bike rider and the riding position on this one makes me feel very secure. So- Warby trail watch out...........I'm a coming!!!

So Young

I was so sad to read about the death of Jane McGrath today. What a brave lady and how hard for her family.

Aggghhhh.......I'm being harrassed - by debstar and kek! Doing my workouts and I think of Kek and her jump lunges and jump squats! Doing a cycle class tonight and I have debs face in front of me saying " I love the sprints'!! Get off my back girls and let me be my usual slothful self!!!! lol
Great motivation - even from so far away!!

Took the class today and it wasn't too bad! Room for improvement I think!

1. Take in own batteries cos the ones there are NOT reliable! Makes it really hard when the participants can't really hear you
2. Get some SLOW step music- what I had wasn't appropriate for a slower step beat.
3. Take out some of the exercises that are obviously difficult- eg lunges and squats ( best to do these with ball and in a more controlled manner!

In all we had a good time though. They seemed to really enjoy the 'hoe down' type music and dance- really got into that! There were about 20 people so it was quite crowded. However they all seemed to think they got a work out. Coffee and chat afterwards was a big success with people continuing to chat for some time. I think next week will be better.
Despite all my attacks of the nerves I really enjoyed doing it!

A Great day

Had a terrific day yesterday. Did a powerbar class and then a 'living stronger, living longer' class after that, Yes- I did take it easy with the powerbar class! But then it was the first time I've done one of those for YEARS!! Found static ball squats a challenge!! But I perservered!!!.
On Monday I'm running ( Gulp!) a class for the over 50's at my gym. I've been madly planning but thought I'd do a class just to see what actually goes on. What a hoot it was! Great fun and everyone so friendly. You know how at the beginning of an aerobic or group class everyone avoids eye contact and NO one speaks to the instructor?? ( at least that's my experience) well....this was quite the opposite. All participants sat on balls chatting while we waited for the instructor and then it was laughs and gay banter the whole time. They found it challenging which was the main thing, but the social aspect of it was the best part- and it's this which will keep people coming back. So- on Monday it seems as though I have to 'laugh a lot'! lol

I've had two good days at my old gym! Last night had a workout ( a bit like going 'home') It's strange to be working out in a different environment and with men. I can understand how many women feel daunted in this type of gym. It's never bothered me in the past and really is ok now- but it has a different 'feel' about it. Must be all the testosterone flying around!
This morning set off to do a 6.30am cycle class. I must say I took it fairly easy. While the others were straining and obviously setting their resistance high- I was sort of cruising. I tell myself it's because I don't want to injure myself but in reality I think it's because I don't want to feel the pain of 'effort'! There- how's that for being truthful!! Next time I'll do better.

revisiting old haunts

Had some interesting post the other day- a 2 week free pass from my old gym. It starts tomorrow and for some reason I'm really looking forward to using it. The hardest transition I made when starting the job at my present gym was turning my recreation into my work! All of a sudden I was on the other end of this. I workout at my jobgym but often don't feel like it after working a 7 hour shift! So.....tomorrow I'm off to use this 2 week pass on my way home. I think I'll reaquaint myself with all the weight machines and maybe do a class if my timing is right!! Yahhhh- way to go! A new motivation at last!!

Some of my birthday pressies! A strong theme of horses and sweetmeats!!

This is the picture I see everytime I use the computer. A lovely picture of my mum and dad. It takes my breath away sometimes when I realise they are no longer with us. A happier time.

Don't I work for some lovely people? These were given to me for my birthday. A lovely thought and they are really beautiful!

I had a wonderful surprise when I got home last night ( late - about 9.45pm) after working all day. Husband had made me my favourite birthday dinner ( which I haven't had for simply ages) Cod Mornay. I love it! He's got the job from now on.

Yah!! This is how I spent my birthday weekend! Have you ever seen anything quite so agile!! lol We had a lovely weekend in Wangaratta but if you see a fence you've just got to climb it! I can't believe another year has gone so quickly nor can I believe that I am now 56- it just doesn't seem real or right!

Y

Grandparent's Day!

My sister Judy, who reads this blog as a way of keeping up with family news, has pointed out that I haven't reported back about "Grandparent's Day! It was fantastic! All the grades were in the hall sitting on their little bottoms and there was Tarli- looking around and waving at me! We were treated to lots of items of cheerleading and singing from some of the children and then were escorted to their rooms to play table games. After that it was a very fast tour of the school - I was run around, up and down steps!. We all shared morning tea with our respective grandchildren and basically that was it. It was delightful to see her interacting with the other children and being so confident and capable. When she was looking for me in the hall she looked so much like her dad ( my son) that it really took me back to all those years ago. I guess now I really am a 'granny'!!

I'm not on a diet!

I've been tagged by Kek
The Rules
1. Post a photo of one of your favourite healthy meal.
2. Title the post "I'm Not on a Diet"
3. Link back to this post.
4. Tag 5 other people.

Apricot chicken with rice. I'm sure this isn't a newie for most people but it is a recipe that is healthy and extremely easy! I use chicken breasts with no skin and just add apricot nectar, onions, carrots , some soy sauce and any other sort of veges and then cook the living daylights out of it! Sit it on rice and it's a tasty , healthy dish.
Anyone who reads this can consider themselves tagged- Please?????

Duh!! I forgot to add the pic!!

We've just had a night at Echuca and so I have to show you the latest acquisition to my 'herd'. I do have a confession to make though. It's a very 'senior' confession. I have no idea where I've put the rest of the horpees. ( granddaughter speak). I've tidied them away and really don't know where they are and haven't had time to thoroughly look. I've NEVER done that before!!
Got an exciting day on Tuesday- my first 'grandparents morning tea' at my granddaughter's school. I've been waiting for ages for this to happen! Tuesday I become an official granny! David ( son) thinks I should take a walking stick so they know which group of visitors I belong to!!

I've been cruising around the blogs and looked at Little Rene's and had a thought! Why don't we put in a photo of our wedding day! Only ...I'm not going first! Seriously though- I love looking at old photos especially at baby/children's photos and trying to see the person they've become. Is anyone interested in doing this?

I've been warbling away to the music from The Student Prince. My dad used to love this record and I have lots of memories of him singing lustily 'Drink! Drink! Drink!' and 'Beloved'. Such lovely and poignant memories

Yup! I was right! Moving at a much slower and more painful pace today!!

Owwwwwwwww- I'm so stiff!! Had a great lower body workout on Tues and upper workout tonight. By tomorrow I think I will have seized up completely!! Love that feeling! lol

Mother's Day

I have a confession to make! I didn't actually go in the Mother's Day Classic after all. It was the thought of stuggling with traffic, parking and not actually doing the walk til probably after 10am that put me off. Also - being a 4km walk wasn't a huge incentive or challenge and would probably have been ultra slow with all those people. I know the walk was more for the meaning behind it rather than the physical challenge but I still found myself lacking real motivation to go. However- instead- we walked/ran around our local lake for 7km. There was also a church service going on there and they had pink balloons and logos for the anti cancer promotion so I felt this was a good alternative. My mum wasn't far from my thoughts all day.
I had a phone call from my daughter who was in SA for the week and phone call and visit from son David- so that was a lovely part of my day too.

Went to see Guys and Dolls last Saturday and it was really BORING!! I had a nice snooze- the seats were quite comfortable. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone but then again I'm not sure live theatre is really my 'thing'. The saving grace was the company. Went with another couple and had a really good fun time with them- ahem......we did stop and have a mega quick dinner on the way in and a more leisurely coffee and pancake on the way home. In future I think I'll stick to the cinema and dvds!!!
Going in the 4km walk/run Mother's Day Classic on Sunday- see you there Kerryn!!! I'll be the one in the groovey pink socks and purple hat!

I actuall had a day at home today- well really only half a day by the time I got back after my swim, shop and massage! I've now got Friday as a work free day and it is really awesome. I do have to resist the shops though as today I think I gaily bought half the things I looked at. In the arvo I cleaned and dusted the 3 or 4 weeks of dust that have accumulated since my last 'clean in'. It feels soooooo good!!!

This is todays cardio work out. Check out the great scenery! We live really close to the Warburton Rail Trail and this was taken on about 10k of the track. Husband waited vainly for a train at Wesburn station- I think he might still be there, it's awfully quiet in the house tonight!

And look deb and kerryn- butt- ugly shoes!!!

Aiming at getting more cardio into my life at the moment. I'm NOT going to avoid the bike and I WON'T be the lazy lump I've been in the past few months!! How's that for a goal??? My foot is definitely improving and I'm doing a little more running on it. I really want to enter for the 8k Mother's Day Classic but I think I'm being pressured into going into the 4k instead. I guess it makes sense as I know that I'll want to run much more than I should. Being sensible is SUCH a pain!!!

A fairly dorky pic and don't forget this is taken after a day of wear and tear and no brush inbetween!

Oh- and I've had my twice a year haircut- lol ( almost but perhaps a little more frequently but not much!) and I'm now more red than I have been and considerably shorter. Feels great- quick blow with the hairdryer, brief rub with the wax and lots and lots of spray and I'm done!!!

My foot- which I have been whinging about for over a year now- is definitely on the improve!!! I'm sure my 'butt ugly" ( Kerryn's words, not mine!) shoes have helped. I ran and walked 3 k this morning but with less walking than I usually do. The best part is that I come away without so much discomfort. It doesn't hurt when I do it and even when I've cooled down the pain is much less if at all. I've got one more swiss ball class to go to and I think I'll just about survive it. I started going for the ladies at the gym who are on this 'war on waistlines' program. The class has been fun and getting together with the others helps enormously. I won't keep doing it though as it's not at a very convenient time for me - (breathes a sigh of relief!! lol)

Birthday Boy!

I can hardly believe it! I am now the mother of a 30 year old!! A 30 YEAR OLD ????? How on earth did THAT happen!!!

I've just spent the last 3 hours glued to the phone and this computer. Seems I unleashed a very nasty type of virus that kept sending porno type popups to me! After speaking to someone in India and then a quick trip to Canada I now have a sparkling new pc ( squeaky clean and absolutely devoid of nasties) !!!. I must repeat after myself - " I must NEVER open anything or click on ANYTHING that looks remotely suspicious". All it was was a website that had a video of a medical condition that I was researching. By agreeing to download the program needed to view it I unwittingly unleashed the virus- be warned!!!

Chung Shi runners! Whoowee!!! I did it! Thanks heaps Clarkie for the help.

Just rename me Imelda! Another pair of shoes purchased and duly worn. These shoes are amazing actually. Called Chung Shi (www.backinaction.co.uk/chung-shi-info) they are very interesting to wear! They are taking a bit of getting used to but I really do think they have helped my plantar fasciitis. My feet feel as though they have been massaged after wearing them and I'm not getting nearly as much discomfort as I normally do. The downside? I much prefer the look of my 'frou- frou' pink ones!!

By the way- can someone tell me how to add a link to a web page without having to put the whole address in! I've looked and tried but dismally failed:((

I've been following 'littlerenes' blog with interest. I love hearing about little Maya and seeing all the pictures. Littlerene seems so capable and in control which is lovely. Our son turns 30 on Sunday ! It seems incredible that all that time has passed. I can still remember quite clearly the first time I saw him and the first time we held him. There is nothing quite as amazing as childbirth!

Phew! Monday is such a busy day. I start at 9am and finish at 9pm!. It's all good fun though. The teaching at TAFE is going well but busy busy busy! I've come home with lots of follow up stuff to do. I'd forgotten how much take home work there always is. Gym work is going well too- so no complaints over this side of town! I did a swiss ball class last Tuesday but could only do half as I was going out for dinner to the pancake parlour! However tomorrow night I need to stay and do the whole lot. It was MEGA hard!!! How can something look so simple but be almost impossible to do???

Off to see the vampires tomorrow. I need to drink lots and remember to take my time leaving the place. I have the vaguest of memories of fainting fairly disgracefully after one blood letting- I think cos I just tried to get going too soon. Anyway it will mean a nice rest with bikkies and tea and a magazine for a while- how civilised!!

Not this time!

I am so disappointed. I was really looking forward to the run and all organised for it. I guess I caught out by the daylight saving mess up with optus! I set my alarm to go off at 5.30am and we needed to leave by 6.45am. About to walk out the door and hubby said- what is the time??? Yes you guessed it- phone had automatically undated to turn the clock back and the actual time was 7.45am!! Too late to drive the hour into the city and the probable 15mins walk to the start. I was really cross but there was nothing to be done about it- grrrrr. We took ourselves to Warby ( I got dropped at Yarra Junction- about 9kms from Warby) and ran and walked the distance. It was a fantastic morning- all low clouds, the smell of woodsmoke, horpees ( horses in granddaughter speak) in the paddocks. Really beautiful!! So for the rest of the day I drank coffee and basically ate rubbish! lol- oh well- tomorrow is another day! And there's always next year.

I've just noticed the date on the pic of my new shoes! They are new ! They are!!! I just didn't set the date on the camera- honest!!

These are my new shoes and somewhere in that melee are my old ones! Going in the 14.14km run tomorrow but unfortunately I didn't get my new shoes until Thurs! I think I would be pushing it to wear them- a shame cos they are such a pretty pink colour!

You're right deb- I needed to return to purple! My hat is now sitting beside the computer enjoying the purpleness and knowing it has returned home! lol- I am bored aren't I??

Yes- I had nothing better to do than fiddle around on here!!! No doubt I will change it again very soon!!

This is how I spent my Saturday afternoon after WORKING ( how on earth did that happen???) Husband and I went to Maroondah dam and walked for about 4 kms ( uphill and down dale) it was lovely lovely lovely!. The view from the bridge is spectacular. I thought the pic of the dam would make a great jigsaw.

Just a warning to other bloggers out there- although you all may be a bit more savvy than me- there are some strange msgs being left in the comments and yesterday I clicked on one from another blogger and all of a sudden microsoft updates flashed up with warnings about spyware and virus's and making sure I had all the updates. I did a virus scan and sure enough had bits and pieces of undesirable stuff on here. I think I've got rid of it all but who knows. That's the last time I click on anything that I don't know or that looks a bit out of the ordinary. Usually I'm really careful.

A day in Brissy with Debstar

Had a great day meeting up with Deb again- this time in Brisbane. My husband had to go to a conference so I got to go and just play!! Deb came up from the Gold Coast by train and we had a day of walking, walking and more walking and talking, talking and more talking!! Lots of fun and definitely great to meet up with Deb again. The picture above is all my fault!! I bought the brownie and I made sure Deb was my 'partner in crime' in demolishing it.

Deb was keen to see the Andy Warhol exhibition and I was keen to improve my 'cultural awareness'!! I can't say I would ever like to see his stuff on my walls but I did like the silver clouds ( which were like enlarged wine bladders filled with helium) and also the silver balls in the water outside the gallery ( not part of the AW exhibition) hmmmmmm.....perhaps I'd better go back to school and join all the other kids who were obviously playing and enjoying these too!

I loved Brisbane- but then perhaps I just love what I know of Queensland. I think I'm really a QLD girl underneath this cold Melbourne exterior! I'LL BE BACK!!!

Thanks Deb for making the effort to come and see me- don't forget I'd love to show you around Melbourne if you ever come south.

Well.....Golly Miss Molly.......I'm off the Queensland tomorrow!!!! Yehaw!!

I've got to a point with my workouts where it's so hard I'm losing motivation!! I used to love the assisted pullup machine but now I look at it with a feeling almost of horror!! I think I'll have to rethink what I'm doing and add stability to increase the difficulty rather than just go up and up in weights. My walk/running is going well though. It's little baby steps for me but at least it's progress. Went for an awesome walk/run on Thurs night. Along the Warby Trail ( disused rail track and now a walking trail) I walked 30 paces and ran 20 for about 30 mins and then just walked back. My foot didn't hurt at all while doing it but the next day was a different story! However a Nurofen seemed to help and I've done other bits and pieces on it since then. Had a 10k walk today and that was awesomely hot and sweaty!!

Start waving those leeks! Smell the daffodils!!! Yah........St David's Day is here!! Ok...so I only realised it was St David's Day when my sister messaged me to tell me. However I did make Welsh Cakes and jolly yummy they were too. And yes.. filled with butter and sugar and all those banned substances. I've hopefully attached some pictures here to remind you all of my Welsh connections- Caerphilly Castle, Llanishen and Cefyn Onn Parc

I did the second part of my work out on Friday- upper body. I don't know why but it was really hard hard!! I didn't increase the weights much- just the lat pulldown, and the only other difference were the pushups- using the bosu. However- I think I really worked to the limit and now I'm sooooooo stiff!!! Other weeks I haven't been as sore so it's a bit of a mystery why this one was so hard. The day before I did my legs- and they are also complaining!!

Started my serious training yesterday but timing how long it's possibly going to take to walk this race. I have to finish in 3 hrs ( or 3 and half). Did a 3 k lap of the lake and took 22mins. Then walked 40paces and ran 10 and did it in 20mins. So should make it in the time!! When I registered I couldn't quite bring myself to register in the red zone as a 'walker' . I ticked the yellow zone of 'casual jogger' on the premise that I can walk fairly quickly. Anyway after yesterdays approx 7k my foot is feeling it a bit but not majorly so that is a positive sign. At least I now feel as though I have a goal to strive for!!

Well.......the die is cast!! My fate- at least on March 30th- is sealed!! Yep- I've registered for the 14.7km Run for Kids event. How ambitious is that???? Here I am.....only walking about 6km a week and I intend to walk (hmmm.... maybe run a little) 14.7km. I guess I can always pull out if needs be- but I REALLY WANT TO DO THIS!. My foot is heaps better although not completely. I registered my daughter too as she assured me she wanted to do it too. I messaged her on the ph only to be given a reply of......my back, hip and knee have been sore so I'm not sure! We're sounding like a pair of old crocs!
Wish me luck as you wave me goodbye........................................!!!!! ( trala trala trala....)

I had been doing really well in the exercise department until this week. Working out hard 2-3 times a week and hitting the bike as often as I could. This week I've fallen apart!! Felt sick and nauseous on weekend and haven't really done anything worthwhile since then. The only benefit I guess is that I haven't been gorging on everything in sight as the very thought of doing that just makes me feel sick. Had first day at the new job today. I sometimes wonder why I put myself through this. Any change seems to bring out the nerves! However, after the first 5 minutes, I really relaxed into it and it's a job I'm sure I'm going to love. The students were lovely, the support worker a HUGE support and all the other staff really helpful and nice and best of all I felt as though I had fallen back into my niche! I think I've got the best of both worlds here- I love the gym work and getting back to the nice parts of teaching rounds off the whole package.

Life is about to get that little bit busier in our household. I've just got another job - as a sessional teacher at the TAFE College!! I'll be teaching literacy to adults with special needs for two mornings a week plus some extra time for coordination. I'm really delighted as this was the part of teaching that I really loved and have missed. Haven't taught adults before but it is a natural progression from the school leavers I was teaching. I start on Wednesday and as long as I have day 1 organised then I think I'll be okay. It fits in really well with the gym -doesn't conflict with any of my shifts and has only meant a couple of changes with the personal training clients. Phew- back to all that preparation and organisation- I love it!!!

A sad sad day- I have to retire my beloved hat! The peak is starting to break down and it's being held together by dirt and sweat !!! ( no- not really - I do wash it occasionally). I've had this hat for about 10 years and it is the very best! Fits really well, never blows off and is light and dries quickly. Oh.......I'm so sad:(((((






On the other hand these shoes apparently have YEARS of life left in them! Perhaps I can attack them at night - rip 'em off his feet and inter them in the wheelie bin!!! Shhhhh.... don't breathe a word of this!!

Phew! The weekend is here at last!! Friday is my bestest and favourist day of the week!. Lately it seems as though each day is a series of hurdles to get through. I enjoy them when they are happening- but first thing in the morning I look lovingly at the crumpled bed and figure out what has to be done before I can get back there!!

I think that finally my sore foot ( from maybe having something in it) is at last showing signs of improvement! Went dancing Saturday night which was the first time for about 2 months that I've worn heels! yah!!. My plantar foot though has been correspndingly bad!! It's a bit like kids- when one is horrid the other is an angel! I have been cycling which I figure can't really hurt either foot and I'm avoiding the leg press ( boohoo- I love the leg press and I was up to 100kg again!!) I'm going to have to get really serious and do regular stretching, icing etc,
Our granddaughter ( 5year old) started school on Thurs. She has also lost her two bottom front teeth. Having these two granddaughters has really made me wish I had our own two kids back again at this age ( at least for a day!).
Not much else going on here except work and some sleep and then more work again.

I'm sitting here eating chocolate so how do I ever think I'm going to achieve New Year's Goal Number 2??????????????????????????????

On Sunday we got together with my sisters (2) and their respective partners and some offspring to evaluate our past New Year Resolutions and set this years. I didn't really do too well with last years. I was supposed to read 'Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway". I thought about it on Saturday afternoon and did contemplate a 'speed read' but decided it really wasn't worth it. I did do SOME gardening and I was supposed to keep this weird sounding plant alive- ahem not sure what happened to it- but in all, I think I failed gardening too!
This years are
1. Make a list of house improvements and do 2 this year
2. Lose 5 cm from my belly.
3. Participate in one fun run/walk
The rest of the family make a group one for each person too- what they did for me was
To read a book every two months.
That one shouldn't be too hard to accomplish. I love reading but tend to read bits and pieces of fitness books, magazines and usually library books of various types. ( I think they think I just read magazines all year!!)

I definitely earned this!!! And deb- I've been hugely improved with the muffins and smarties, they are no longer daily events!!!

Can you see the blue roll to the side of the pic? That's our fairly new rug which now has to be rolled up to stop the bloody cat from clawing it!!!