Wed 31 Dec

New Year's Eve 2014. We have zero plans for tonight, though I did buy some fresh oysters at Costco on Saturday which we can eat as is if they seem fresh enough or make into stew. Since I'm on the pager, I haven't even looked into offerings at local restaurants. I was remembering today that we used to go to champagne brunch at the Holiday Inn every New Year's when Grandma and Grandpa were still in their home. The restaurants stopped offering the brunch after a while which seemed strange to me as it always seemed well-attended. I wish it was still an option. Felt good to do a fuller strength training workout this morning. I've been a little neglectful of this area lately. Food: 7:00 am Costco chocolate croissant, 1/2 grapefruit, 98 g blackberries, coffee 11:40 am Bean casserole, 98 g raspberries, Nestle Fat Free hot cocoa, 1 Hartman cookie 3:00 pm 4 pc chocolates 6:15 pm Oysters, prosecco 6:30 pm 4 oz lamb, 1/2 c broccoli, 1/2 c cheesy potatoes Exercise: 4:50-5:30 am Jane Fonda Workout with Weights video 5:30-6:00 am Jessica Smith Power Walk YouTube 5:20-6:10 pm Leslie Sansone Four Fast Miles DVD

Tues 30 Dec

Feeling the beginnings of pressure in my sinuses today, so time to hit the Cold-Eze. Might be able to stave it off at this stage. No ill effects in the head or neck showing up from yesterday's accident. Got to file my work incident report today. Food: 6:45 am Costco chocolate croissant, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 9:00 am 2 pc Russell Stover chocolates 12:10 pm Strawberry/banana soy shake, TJ's vegetarian tamale, 98 g raspberries 2:45 pm Candy at work 5:05 pm Leftover Grampa's pizza, 2 slices leftover Wild Tomato pizza Exercise: 4:50-5:45 am DWTS DVD

Mon 29 Dec

Nice to see the Packers hang on for the win yesterday. I was quite tired yesterday, not sure why. You'd think I'd feel well rested after several days off in a row. Feeling okay this morning, so hopefully it passed. Not the best day. Got rear-ended at a stoplight today. Will have to wait til Jan 26 to get repairs done, and can't really open the back hatch until then. They will arrange for a rental while doing repairs, and it should be covered by her insurance. Food: 7:00 am Pig's ear pastry, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee 11:00 am Scotcheroo 11:45 am Vanilla soy shake, 2 med eggs OE, small cranberry scone 12:30 pm Molasses cookies 4:45 pm K-cup spiced cider Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video

Sun 28 Dec

A little more into the normal routine today, at least the normal Sunday routine. Up at 6:30 am to do a barre exercise and a dance DVD, breakfast, shower, church, and the Packers to look forward to later. Got some chocolate croissants from Costco that are pretty good, but nowhere near the quality of my Amherst baker. Food: 8:10 am Costco chocolate croissant, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 12:10 pm Leftover breakfast casserole, 1 c leftover fruit salad, espresso hot chocolate 1:15 pm 2 chocolates of the world 2:00 pm 2 Kathy Hartman cookies Exercise: 6:50-7:20 am Jessica Smith Cardio Barre YouTube 7:20-7:55 am Cardio Dance DVD 1:25-1:55 pm Jessica Smith Dance Party YouTube

Fri 26 Dec

Nice to not have to return to the office til Monday. We decided that since I have to be on the pager over New Year's and we can't do the NYE special at Chateau De Pere, we will go tonight for their Home for the Holidays special, $79 for a room with breakfast, and have a nice dinner there tonight. Learned that my favorite chef, Sebastien, is not with them any more. He is staying home with his new daughter and doing catering. The chefs in the restaurant were trained by him, though, and still serve his menu. I suspect he was already gone the last time we were there as I saw no sign of him on a Friday night. Looking forward to their beautiful room, nice breakfast, and just a nice overnight getaway. Comfortably settled into our room with about an hour to spare before our dinner reservations. We shopped at Woodman's in Appleton and stocked up on Naughty Girl on sale, hit the Green Bay Costco and Target. Now we are ready to just chill. I want one of the bartender's excellent cocktails so we didn't bring any of the wine up to the room. Food: 9:00 am French brioche roll, 1/2 grapefruit, 98 g blackberries, coffee, gingerbread leg 11:30 am Bean casserole Exercise: 7:10-8:00 am Erin O'Brien Fit Body DVD 8:00-8:40 am Jessica Smith Latin Spice Walk YouTube

Merry Christmas 2014!

A relatively quiet Christmas morning. I made eggnog pancakes for breakfast with Laura and Bob, and we are chilling until Michael and Taylor arrive. Michael planned to shoot for 9 am, but we will expect them when they arrive. I'll start the dinner for a late lunch and hope they make it in time to eat. I may start the prep work soon so it's done. Food: 7:45 am 2 eggnog pancakes, 1/4 tbl butter, 1 tbl maple syrup, 1 c fruit salad, 4 oz egg nog, coffee Prosecco, lamb, cheesy potatoes, cranberry waldorf, broccoli, bean casserole, dahl soup, Christmas cookies, leg of gingerbread man 6:30 pm 3 oz lamb, cheesy potatoes, 2/3 c broccoli Exercise: 4:20-4:55 pm Jessica Smith Disco Walk YouTube 5:55-6:25 pm Jessica Smith Barefoot Fusion Walk YouTube

Wed 24 Dec

So I'm stuck with Cheap Crap phone service as suspected. I just need to get used to not having as fast access to Internet as I had before. At least there are no worries about exceeding my data limit. Oh yeah, Merry Christmas Eve. Gotta get moving to clear the table and get things prepared for Hartman brunch in a little over 3 hours. Brunch went very well. Enjoyable time had by all: Kathy & John, Eddie, Bob & Sue, Laura. Very sticky caramel rum sauce on the banana crepes, but no fillings lost. Food: 7:05 am French Brioche roll, 1/2 grapefruit, 98 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 2:40-3:15 pm Jessica Smith Power Interval Walk YouTube 3:15-3:45 pm Jessica Smith Power Walk YouTube

Tues 23 Dec

I suspect last night will set a new record low on my Fitbit sleep stats. I will likely suffer the effects today. Food: 6:50 am French brioche ring, 1/2 grapefruit, 98 g blackberries, coffee 11:00 am White chocolate dipped molasses cookie 11:45 am Strawberry/banana soy shake, slice Omega 3 toast, 1 tbl PB, 56 g raspberries Exercise: 4:50-5:20 am Jessica Smith Latin Dance Walk YouTube 5:20-5:50 am Jessica Smith Power Interval Walk YouTube

Mon 22 Dec

Almost there. Didn't get as much accomplished as I would have liked on Sunday. Still a little sketchy on brunch menu, but I have a basic idea, recipes, and enough ingredients to go on. Hope to get the table set up tonight and a little better organized. Really felt tired yesterday, but better again today. Food: 6:55 am French brioche ring, 1/2 grapefruit, 98 g blackberries, coffee 11:00 am Scotcheroo 11:50 am Strawberry/banana soy shake, slice Omega 3 toast, 1 tbl PB, 74 g raspberries 12:40 pm 1 sugar cookie, 1 molasses cookie 4:10 pm 1 white chocolate covered pretzel, 1 small Rolo pretzel 4:45 pm Caramel corn 6:00 pm 1 Sea Queen Parmesan tilapia filet, 1/2 c mashed potatoes, 3/4 c sliced carrots 6:55 pm Small piece English toffee Exercise: 4:45-5:55 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video

Sun 21 Dec

Got quite a lot accomplished yesterday, though wore myself out in the process. Today is an off-rhythm day because I cantor at 6 pm so we aren't going to church this morning which just feels weird. Yet to do today: pack up the Christmas cookies, plan menus for Christmas Eve brunch and Christmas dinner and make sure everything is on hand, finish trimming tree (maybe during Packer game as we should FINALLY be able to watch a game on the living room TV!!!!), take a plate of cookies and a couple small gifts to Leone and explain that we are just doing our family for Christmas dinner (due to the smaller leg of lamb I already have). I'd like to continue cleaning while the bug is still on me, but the above things take precedence as they have to be done soon. I WILL take time to watch the Packer game, and I need to be at church for cantering at 5:20 til about 7 pm. Gratefully, I have not been disturbed by further calls on the pager so I have gotten my work done yesterday. Hoping for more of the same today. Had to stop in the middle of the second Jessica Smith workout - just exhausted. Feeling a bit low energy today. Didn't drink my afternoon water which could be a factor. Food: 7:50 am Small molasses cookie 7:55 am French brioche roll, 1/2 grapefruit, 98 g blackberries, coffee 8:30 am Small sugar cookie 12:15 pm 4 leftover cheese fries, 2 chocolate covered lebkuchen 2:00 pm 6 oz Leinie's cranberry ginger shandy 8:00 pm Ham/broccoli/cheddar casserole, banana Exercise: 9:45-10:25 am Jessica Smith Belly, Buns & Thighs YouTube 10:25-10:45 am Jessica Smith Cardio Ball Blast

Sat 20 Dec

This will have to be a busy weekend since I didn't get motivated to do as much holiday prep during the evenings last week as I would have hoped. Had one on-call last night at 10:15 pm, but was able to handle it over the phone. Hopefully not too many interruptions today when things need to get done. Remembered that I have to cantor at 6 pm tomorrow so won't need to go to church in the morning, but need to remember to go in the evening. Thinking that Christmas dinner will be just Bob and me, Laura and Michael and Taylor because I have a nice Costco leg of lamb roast in the freezer that will be a lovely Christmas dinner for us. Wouldn't really be enough to add Leone and Mick though. I will take a little fruitcake for Leone and maybe some beer for Mick over there this weekend and gently let them know we won't be doing the big family dinner together on Christmas. If we get cookies baked today, I can take them a plate of those as well. We had an expensive surprise today. The dishwasher died a noisy death, and with the holidays on our doorstep, we decided to replace it right away as it really was pretty old. Nice to have a handyman in the house so we didn't have to pay for installation. I used the time to get the gifts wrapped. Food: 7:20 am Costco cinnamon roll, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:20 pm Caramel Macchiato Greek blend yogurt 3:00 pm Caramel corn 6:15 pm 8 oz hard cider Exercise: 4:40-5:25 pm Leslie Sansone Four Fast Miles DVD

Fri 19 Dec

Christmas lunch at work today. Our section is in charge, so I need to join in decorating this morning and be involved with the operations at lunch. Theme is Hawaiian Christmas and Ambrosia's is catering ham and shrimp, so I'm looking forward to the meal. Food: 6:50 am Costco cinnamon roll, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 4:50-5:35 am Erin O'Brien Fit Body DVD 5:35-5:50 am Walk/run around basement to boost steps

Thurs 18 Dec

Secret Santa must have decided I hadn't been good enough yesterday because he forgot me. I had this happen a couple of years ago also, but at least she remembered for the Christmas lunch on Friday. Possibly my Santa was sick or didn't work on Wednesday for some reason. Food: 6:55 am Morning bun, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 12:35 pm Peach soy shake, slice Omega 3 toast, 1 tbl PB, 98 g raspberries 1:15 pm Lindt truffle 4:55 pm Caramel corn Exercise: 4:50-5:50 am Dance Exercise DVD

Wed 17 Dec

Today will be the last staffing at work til the end of the year so I won't have the tension of wondering what else she'll throw at us. Works for me. I think I may also tell my more difficult client today that she'll be getting a different case manager in a couple of weeks. Probably better than telling her the day before Christmas break. Food: 6:45 am Costco cinnamon roll, 1/2 grapefruit, 102 g blackberries, coffee 12:25 pm Blueberry soy shake, slice Omega 3 toast, 1/4 tbl butter, 102 g raspberries, 35 g Gouda 2:00 pm Sugar cookie 3:00 pm Fiber One Gingerbread bar 5:00 pm 2 sm Christmas cookies 6:00 pm 5 Priano Portabello Mushroom ravioli, 1/2 c arrabiata sauce, 1 tbl shredded parmesan, 3/4 c asparagus, chamomile tea Exercise: 4:50-5:20 am Jessica Smith Stride & Strength YouTube 5:20-5:35 am Jessica Smith Power Walk Quickie YouTube 5:35-5:45 am Jessica Smith Power Interval 10 min YouTube

Tues 16 Dec

Getting down to the "almost Christmas" days already. Need to finish trimming tree, wrap presents, make sugar/molasses cookies, plan Christmas Eve brunch and Christmas dinner, etc. Things are busier at work with the transition of caseloads to take over CCS. I guess I need to step up my game. Food: 6:45 am Costco cinnamon roll, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 11:35 am 50 g braunschweiger, 1 slice Omega 3 bread, 1/4 tbl butter, 101 g raspberries, shortbread cookie 2:30 pm 2 mini Snickers 4:45 pm Caramel corn 7:00 pm 3 oz venison backstrap, 4 sweet potato wedges, 1/2 delicata squash w/chili lime butter Exercise: 4:55-5:45 am Leslie Sansone 4 Fast Miles DVD

Mon 15 Dec

Secret Santa week this week at work. Something to look forward to and to take my mind off going on-call Tues for one week on, one week off, then another week on. Grrr! Food: 7:05 am Chocolate chunk danish, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:10 pm 59 g braunschweiger, slice Omega 3 bread, 1/4 tbl butter, 101 g raspberries 12:45 pm Small peanut square 4:45 pm Caramel corn 6:30 pm 35 g pasty, 1/4 c leftover acorn squash Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout 5:40-6:20 pm Jessica Smith Flat Abs Walk YouTube

Sun 14 Dec

Had a nice memory of Mom at the restaurant. I had Swiss steak for lunch, prepared pretty much the way she used to make it. It was like getting a hug from Mom. It had always been one of my favorite meals. The walk with the group was very pleasant and a nice way to start the day. Got shopping done for the Hartman boy gifts and a few other things as well. Today we go to church after breakfast and then have a big brunch at the Ox Yoke Inn. We will head home with a possible stop at REI in Madison so Bob can look at warm work boots. Not likely we will make it home for the choir thing for Sons of Norway at 6 pm.

Sat 13 Dec

One year ago today, Grandma left us and went up to join Grandpa and Mark in heaven. We miss you, Grandma and Grandpatoo. Bob and I are comfortably ensconced in the Die Heimat B&B in Homesread, IA, waiting about 15 min to go to breakfast. Reviews said the breakfast here is very good. After breakfast, we have been told the local walkers are participatingI in a walking event coordinated in multiple places to begin at 10:11 am on 12/13/14. We will meet them in Amana and walk around Lily Lake. We should still have plenty of time left to explore the shops, get to church at 4 pm, get dinner and the bluegrass Christmas concert at 7:30. Should be a nice day.

Fri 12 Dec

Heading down to Iowa today, after a lunch date with daughter. And a few Madison errands. It's about 5 hours to Iowa from Point, so from Madison it should be closer to 3. Looking forward to seeing Amana in the winter. Food: 7:30 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 5:20-5:50 am Jessica Smith Cardio Workout YouTube 5:50-6:15 am Jessica Smith Dance Walk YouTube

Thurs 11 Dec

The George Winston concert was very nice - I thought of you several times. He was a master of letting the final note ring out and the audience thankfully respected it. It reminded me of what Strassburg used to call "the LeGault ending" because both you and I liked to do that. I also thought of you because he played quite a bit of Vince Guaraldi. I hate it when I forget my Fitbit on the charger and do a lot of running around that doesn't get to count toward the day's steps. Food: 6:50 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 102 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm Slice 12 grain bread, 1 tbl PB, 100 g raspberries, shortbread 1:15 pm Wedge Happy Farms Light Spreadable cheese 4:30 pm Chocolate crinkle cookie 6:45 pm 4 oz leftover liver, 1/2 c mashed potatoes, 1 c fresh asparagus, tea, 1/2 frosted sugar cookie Exercise: 4:50-5:50 am Victoria Johnson's Step/Weights workout DVD 5:20-6:00 pm Jessica Smith Latin Dance YouTube

Wed 10 Dec

I hate having to make difficult decisions before I even get out of bed. There are apparently some nasty viruses running around the area and we would both like very much to stay healthy to enjoy our Amana weekend. I opted to stay in bed and get one more hour's sleep instead of exercise this morning because it's a busy week and I've been running a bit short on sleep other nights. Sleep is probably more important in the immune system department than exercise, at least I hope so. I won two tickets to the George Winston concert tonight, so it will be another later night. The Rockman class was great, a small group of 8 and roast duck as the main course! I did have somewhat of a headache yesterday, which one of the ladies at the cooking class said is the first symptom of this nasty virus, but I attributed the headache to eating too much sugar the last several days. I often find I don't feel as well if I eat too much sugar, especially if I have been not doing so for quite a while. I plan to try to avoid most of the tempting treats in the house today, though I did finish the last sticky bun for breakfast. Food: 6:55 am Sticky bun, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm 3 oz taco seasoned shredded chicken, lettuce, 1/4 c chopped tomato, 1/2 c shredded lettuce, 2 tbl finely shredded taco cheese, 1 tbl light sour cream, 2 tbl black beans, 1/4 c refried beans, 1/2 c tortilla chips 5:45 pm 4 oz leftover duck Exercise: 4:50-5:30 pm Jessica Smith Indoor Jogging YouTube

Tues 9 Jan

Scott Rockman's Christmas Around the World cooking class tonight. Should be delightful. We really enjoy these classes. I also really enjoyed watching the entire Packer game last night. As predicted, I finally stopped being sleepy some time in the evening so I could stay up for the whole game. And strangely, I'm far less tired today even though I got just under 6 hours sleep last night. Food: 6:50 am Sticky bun, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm Strawberry/banana soy shake, slice 12 grain bread, 1 tbl PB, 1/2 large banana, shortbread, krumkake Exercise: 4:50-5:45 am DWTS DVD

Mon 8 Dec

Slept quite soundly last night and am still reluctant to wake up, even though I've been out of bed since 4:40, exercised, and showered. Hopefully by lunch, I'll be awake. It has not helped my sleepiness that my home visit took me two tries to wake her up to answer the door and she almost fell asleep while we were talking, and another client called me after having taken his sedating meds very early and kept stumbling over his sentences. The world is conspiring to keep me half asleep! Well, we won't be inaugurating our new TV on the Packer game tonight because it'll be broadcast on a channel we don't get with our rooftop antenna. Hopefully we can find it on the internet. Food: 7:10 am Sticky bun, 1/2 grapefruit, 102 g blackberries, coffee 10:45 am Wedge shortbread 11:55 am Peach soy shake, Fit & Active pumpkin yogurt, cookies 4:45 pm Chocolate crinkle cookie 6:40 pm Macaroni & cheese, 1 c broccoli, 2 cookies Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video

Sun 7 Dec

Pearl Harbor Day. Reminds me of Grandma because she used to write letters to a military man who was killed at Pearl Harbor before she met Grandpa. Did a new Jessica Smith lower body barre this morning. Only 25 min, but very intense. Continuing in yesterday's sugar fest, I decided it's better to enjoy a few of the treats while they are at their freshest. Last concert is history. The rather, loud brassy second soprano did not come today and farmed her solo out to Vicky. I asked her yesterday why she was unable to come and she said she is ushering for the symphony concert at 3:30. Seems a tad odd to me that you would pass on your own concert, with a solo, just to usher. Her friend said today that the gal doesn't plan to sing with us any more because she felt negative vibes. Some of those may have been from me because she can be a bit in your face with her in situ directing the count or singing notes at me if she feels I may possibly not sing them correctly. I don't say anything to her, but I do make an effort to stand elsewhere when possible. Bob suggested she may need more attention than she got in general. I was not aware of any overt conflicts all semester. Food: 8:10 am Sticky bun, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:05 pm 2 eggs scrambled with 3 oz chopped ham, 1/3 c chopped yellow pepper, 1/4 c shredded cheddar, 2 pc fattigman, 1/2 pc peanut creme bar, 1 butterfinger scotcheroo, 1 chocolate crinkle cookie 4:00 pm Fudge Exercise: 6:55-7:20 am Jessica Smith Barre for lower body YouTube 7:20-7:50 am Jessica Smith Power Walk YouTube

Sat 6 Dec

Happy St Nicholas Day! We sang in the Grand Theatre lobby last night - horrible acoustics. It wasn't built as a performance space, or so I would guess. I understand a ballet company was rehearsing The Nutcracker in the theatre itself, and we were just casual entertainment for the people who had come downtown for the Christmas parade. Tonight we return to Wausau for a concert at Pilgrim Lutheran. One of our choir members decided we should do a bake sale after the concert tomorrow, so if I feel so inclined, I'll need to bake something today after we get back from the Amherst bake/craft sales and before tonight's concert, sandwiched between laundry and exercise. The Amherst thing was fun as usual. I got all of my Secret Santa things taken care of at the Jensen Center. Saw Canales there as usual, but also saw his wife, Nancy who I have not seen in many years. She is a nice person so it was really nice to reconnect. Munched several sweet treats and lunched at Wheel House. Food: 7:00 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, tea 10:00 am Sweet treats 12:00 pm 1/2 Italian sausage bomber sandwich w/cheese & mushrooms, 1/8 c coleslaw, few kettle chips, 1 sm piece pizza, 8 oz Scotch ale 1:30 pm More sweet treats 5:10 pm Bowl turkey soup, tea Exercise: 3:30-4:10 pm Jessica Smith Disco Mix YouTube 4:10-4:45 pm Jessica Smith Dance Walk YouTube

Fri 5 Dec

Got to work a full day today as there were no extra hours put in earlier in the week. Fridays get really long between 3-4:30 pm. Concert went fine last night at Intercession. Tonight we have to sing selections from the second half at the Wausau Christmas Parade. We will be inside a room at the Grand Theatre. Parking will likely be difficult to find. We have three people who want to ride with us, so the back seat of our baby Prius will be stuffed full if they all come. Well, the absent coworker isn't returning until (conveniently, for him) Jan 5 when the on-call shift ends that he traded with me. I opted to take the shift (before the supervisor could just assign it to me) in addition to the shift I accepted in the trade, with the condition that the coworker can do my next scheduled shift in mid-January. If he's not back, they can just assign that shift to someone else. I will then be done with on-call til March. Food: 6:55 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am Fit & Active pumpkin yogurt, slice pecan kringle, 1/4 extra large cantaloupe 12:45 pm 2 Lindt truffles 3:30 pm 1 Snickers mini 5:15 pm Bowl turkey soup, slice cinnamon raisin struan toast, 1 tsp butter, tea Exercise: 4:50-5:25 am Jessica Smith Stride & Step YouTube 5:30-5:40 am Jessica Smith 10 min Walking Intervals w/dumbells YouTube

Thurs 4 Dec

Concerts start tonight, first one at Intercession on Ellis St. Mary Hofer's Suzuki students are singing a small set with us and a joint rendition of Abbie Betinis' Lumen. They took my regular choice of Leslie Sansone walks with the interval jogging off of YouTube so I had to try a different one which isn't nearly as engaging. Food: 6:55 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 12:35 pm Blueberry soy shake, slice Omega 3 bread, 23 g cheddar cheese, 1 tsp butter 1:20 pm 1 Lindt truffle 2:30 pm 1 Lindt truffle, Dove mint 5:15 pm Venison chili, 1 tbl light sour cream, 1 tbl shredded cheddar, slice cinnamon raisin struan, 1 tsp butter Exercise: 5:00-6:00 am Leslie Sansone 4 mile walk YouTube

Wed 3 Dec

Could be an interesting day at work today. We will have to see what is said about our MIA coworker. He had asked me to trade on-call weeks so that I would take Dec 16-22 and he would take Dec 30-Jan 5 which includes the New Year's holiday so he could have time with his Arkansas children over the holiday. If he isn't going to be back in time, I really hope the boss doesn't try to stick me with both weeks. Our new TV is scheduled for delivery after work today. It is the same brand and type as the TV in the basement, so it should have a quicker learning curve for us. It's here, and set up with minimal work. Nice size in our living room. Food: 7:00 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm Slice Polish apple cake, Fit & Active pumpkin yogurt, 1 c Pacific roasted red pepper tomato soup 12:50 pm 1 Lindt truffle 3:00 pm 1 Lindt truffle, 1 Dove mint 5:00 pm Tea 6:30 pm Venison chili w/sour cream & cheese 7:40 pm 41 g English toffee Exercise: 4:55-5:20 am Kathy Smith upper body strength DVD 5:20-6:00 am Jessica Smith Belly, Buns & Thighs YouTube 5:45-6:20 pm Jessica Smith Latin Dance YouTube

Tues 2 Dec

Looking forward to the new tea of the day today. I like this "Advent calendar" system. Enjoying that the first part of the week is quiet, given that we have choir concert obligations Thurs through Sun. We are missing a couple of smaller choir gigs the following weekend when we will be in Amana. Too bad, so sad. We have reservations for a bluegrass holiday concert in Amana that Saturday evening. Sadly, we qualified for senior tickets. Oh well, $3 saved is $3 in our pockets. Got a thank you note today from Michele for the get well card we sent. She sounds like she is keeping her spirits up. Our newest coworker is mysteriously out on leave for at least a couple of weeks per an email from the boss today. No one is sure if it is health-related, personal issues, or perhaps a suspension. They aren't likely to tell us, either. Food: 6:55 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:35 am Strawberry/banana soy shake, slice Omega 3 bread, tsp butter, slice cheddar cheese, 1 c fruit salad 12:30 pm Lindt truffle 2:30 pm Chocolate mint square 5:25 pm Tea 6:45 pm 4 oz liver w/caramelized onions, 1/2 c mashed potatoes, 1/2 c mashed acorn squash Exercise: 4:50-5:35 am Jessica Smith Cardio DVD 5:35-5:50 am Jessica Smith Stretch/Relax YouTube 7:15-7:45 pm Walk w/Dad in the new snow

Mon 1 Dec

First day of the new dress code at work - sort of a business casual, but really just avoiding the director's pet peeves. The office environment is a somewhat less pleasant place these days. Got my "grown-up Advent calendar" delivered today: a new tea sachet for every day Dec 1-24. Today was caramel hazelnut. The sachet easily makes 2 good cups of tea. A nice little way to relax after work. Food: 7:00 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 9:30 am Small piece peppermint bark 12:00 pm 4"x 5" chunk leftover Wheel House pizza, 1 c fruit salad, tea 3:00 pm Smaller remaining piece of peppermint bark 4:45 pm Tea 7:15 pm Turkey soup, tea, 2 Lindt truffles Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video 5:45-6:10 pm Jessica Smith part of new DVD

Sun 30 Nov

Choir rehearsal is at 1 pm today so we should be able to catch the whole Packer game by 3:30 pm. I'll likely throw the turkey in the soup pot to cook while I watch. Got a good start on decorating the tree yesterday, so I probably only need one more burst of energy to finish that. Yum! Fresh turkey soup and fruit salad. Good post-Packer win fare for a cool night. Food: 8:35 am Almond croissant, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm Steel cut oatmeal w/flaxseed meal, protein powder, 1/2 c Door Co cherries, .75 oz walnuts, soy milk, small slice Almond Kringle 7:50 pm Bowl turkey soup w/dumplings, 1 c fruit salad Exercise: 6:55-7:45 am Brutal ballet DVD 7:45-8:20 am Salsa DVD 3:30-6:30 pm Walking during Packer game

Sat 28 Nov

Today is an unstructured day and I'm feeling a little wrong-footed as I'm not sure what to best do with it. I did email David about the pastry pick-up, but whereas he responded with what he was making, he did not get back to me about the pickup time and location. I went to Target at the usual time, but after waiting 15 min, I tried to call him and got his message. I returned home and he called to say he got his messages late and would not be at Target, but would be having Hailey drop off pastries at the Strongs Ave market at 8:30. I drove there around 8:35 and it doesn't open til 9. I did return a little after 9 and was rewarded by some very delicious apricot snails, with a couple of almond croissants in reserve for tomorrow. Got a start on tree trimming, probably more than halfway. Will do more later. Food: 7:15 am 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, small slice almond kringle, coffee 8:50 am Apricot snail pastry, coffee 12:30 pm Blueberry soy shake, 88 g chocolate chip brioche roll, 38 g raspberries 3:15 pm 2 Lindt truffles Exercise: 11:40-12:20 pm Jessica Smith Flat Abs Walk YouTube 3:50-4:50 pm Richard Simmons DVD

Fri 28 Nov

Black Friday is here. I expect we'll go out and check things out this morning, but I don't have any agenda and haven't even looked at local ads. We usually go to Target, Plover Shopko, Younkers, and sometimes Kohl's and follow it up with a nice lunch somewhere. There are always a few things worth picking up. We bit on updating our living room TV to a Samsung flat screen Smart TV. We're getting a 40" TV which we calculated will be almost the same physical size as the current 32" Sony TV, just more screen and less trim around the outside. We can probably use the same stand - it just won't match the TV. We can then move the Blu-Ray player upstairs and also hook the roof antenna up in the living room so I won't have to watch Packer games in the basement. We're ordering it through Costco who will mail it to our house so we don't have to figure out how to load it into our vehicle, though of course we'll have to wait for it. Hopefully Packer season won't be over by the time we get it hooked up. Thanksgiving dinner tastes good second time around as well. 7:00 am 1/2 piece plum kuchen, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 pm 1/4 lb burger, bun, sauteed mushrooms, slice Swiss cheese, 1 tbl ketchup 12:30 pm Slice Costco pumpkin cake roll 2:00 pm 2 Lindt truffles 5:45 pm 3 oz light meat turkey, 1/2 c stuffing, 1 tbl gravy, 1/2 c bourbon sweet potatoes, 2 tbl cranberry sauce Exercise: 3:45-4:25 pm Jessica Smith Indoor Jogging YouTube 4:25-4:55 pm Jessica Smith Latin Dance YouTube

Thurs 27 Nov

Happy Thanksgiving! Wish we could all be together today, but looking forward to doing so at Christmas. For now, sending long-distance love and hugs will have to suffice. Veggies are sautéing for the stuffing, cranberry pudding pie and cranberry sauce have been made, turkey is still brining until ready for the oven in about half an hour, sweet potatoes are baked and cooled in preparation for assembling the casserole. Michael, Leone and Mick should be coming between noon and 1 pm. Sitting down to a little breakfast, and maybe will even sneak in a little exercise while the turkey roasts. Another yummy Thanksgiving is in the record books. Dad is almost done cleaning up the kitchen. Most of the leftovers are already in the fridge. We are grateful. Food: 7:00 am Gibassier, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:45 pm Turkey, gravy, stuffing, bourbon sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, asparagus, coffee, sparkling apple pomegranate juice, cranberry pudding pie, 3 oz cranberry ginger shandy 9:30 pm 1.5 oz white meat turkey Exercise: 8:40-9:20 am Leslie Sansone Fast 4 Mile Walk YouTube 2:35-3:20 pm Walk with Dad in the briskness 4:30-5:00 pm Jessica Smith Cardio Ball Blast YouTube

Wed 26 Nov

Last work day of the week - okay by me. The time is flying by again. I cannot quite comprehend that tomorrow is Thanksgiving already. Food: 6:55 am Morning bun, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 9:30 am Sm molasses cookie 11:50 am Strawberry/banana soy shake, pumpkin chocolate chip muffin, Fit & Active pumpkin yogurt, 101 g raspberries 1:30 pm Slice Costco pumpkin cake roll 6:30 pm 3/4 c whole wheat spaghetti, 1/2 c caramelized onion and garlic sauce, 1/8 c onion, 1/4 c green pepper, 3 oz ground beef, 1/2 c cranberry waldorf Exercise: 4:50-5:40 am Kristi Yamaguchi workout DVD 5:40-5:55 am Jogging 5:20-6:00 pm Jessica Smith Belly, Buns & Thighs YouTube

Tues 25 Nov

My bro would have been 63 today. Happy Birthday, Mark! Hope I can get out of the driveway today. Can't tell for sure how much snow came down, but there looks to be about 6-7" on the little shelf in the crook of the fence. I can never tell after the fact what the wind may have done one way or the other. There's only about 3-4" on the railings of the deck outside the dining room window. It seemed like about 3" that I cleaned off the car on the way home from work yesterday, and it kept snowing to some degree most of the evening. Nice Dad is heading out to try the snowblower on the plow buildup. Food: 6:50 am Chocolate croissant, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:30 am Peach soy shake, 1/2 pc plum apple kuchen, Fit & Active pumpkin yogurt, 101 g raspberries 2::30 pm 2 Lindt truffles 5:00 pm 10 g mini marshmallows 5:15 pm 6 oz Leinie's cranberry ginger shandy 6:15 pm 225 g pasty, cranberry waldorf Exercise: 4:50-5:20 am Cardio Salsa DVD 5:20-5:50 am Cardio Dance DVD 5:30-6:00 pm Jessica Smith Latin Dance YouTube

Mon 24 Nov

Short work weeks are always something to look forward to, even at the expense of poor grammar. Hopefully it will be a fairly quiet week as well. No outside activities scheduled, so maybe I'll even get to fold my laundry tonight. Got three loads washed and dried yesterday, but none of it is folded yet. Got to plan out the meal for Thanksgiving and make sure I have everything I need. I'd also like to do a good kitchen cleaning in preparation so there's more room to work and to store things when done. Food: 6:55 am Gibassier, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 11:55 am Blueberry soy shake, slice Polish apple cake, Light & Fit pumpkin yogurt, 100 g raspberries 12:30 pm 1/4 c sea salt caramel corn 2:45 pm Fiber One gingerbread bar 6:00 pm 1 c whole grain spaghetti, 1/2 c caramelized onion & garlic sauce, 4 oz ground beef, 1/8 c onions, 1/3 c green pepper, 1 tbl grated parmesan, 2/3 c cranberry waldorf Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video 6:45-7:15 pm Jessica Smith Sunset Barefoot Walk YouTube

Sun 23 Nov

Yum, I'm savoring the first bite of the chocolate orange brioche and it's gooooood. Had a really nice time in Madison with you yesterday. So glad you're close enough to get together at least once a month. Hope you have an awesome Friendsgiving dinner today. Met Michael and Taylor for lunch at Rock & Roll Cafe. Was not as impressed with their breakfast as with their fish fry. Food: 8:10 am Chocolate orange brioche roll, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am 2/3 machaca omelette, 1/2 wedge cantaloupe, 1/2 wedge honeydew, slice apple, slice orange, 2 corn tortillas, coffee 3:45 pm 1 Lindt truffle 6:45 pm Grilled cheese sandwich, 1 c roasted red pepper tomato soup Exercise: 6:55-7:30 am Jessica Smith Cardio Ballet YouTube 7:30-8:00 am Jessica Smith Power Interval Walk YouTube 2:30-3:00 pm Run in place during end of Packer game 3:15-3:35 pm Walk to Aunt Leone's and back

Sat 22 Nov

Met the Scottish baker at the Target parking lot this morning for fresh bakery. Yummies in the house for the week. Food: 8:30 am Gibassier, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 21 Nov

Dad was having some stomach issues in the wee hours this morning; hope he's better now. Whatever afflicted me on Sunday didn't seem to last, so maybe he had a touch of the same thing. Full weeks of work seem so rude after a very short week, but next week will be short again with Thanksgiving so I guess I can deal with it. Today is likely to be the last Friday I go out to breakfast with my client. She is getting knee surgery next week and will be recuperating in the nursing home for a while, then I will be switching my caseload so she will no longer be my client. Damn, my cold is worse again. Food: 6:55 am Half slice of Polish apple cake, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee 8:15 am 2 scrambled eggs w/veggie mix, 1 slice mozzarella, wedge cantaloupe, wedge honeydew, 2 slices grilled homemade toast w/butter, 1 pkg orange marmalade 11:40 am Fit & Active pumpkin pie yogurt, 1 slice struan toast w/butter, 101 g raspberries 2:30 pm 100 cal dark chocolate acai pack 5:30 pm Sm bowl chicken dumpling soup, 2 pc fried perch w/tartar sauce, seasoned potato wedges, 1/4 c coleslaw, 1/2 slice buttered marble rye bread, 12 oz O'So Memory Lane 6:10 pm 1/2 slice apple/carrot/pecan cake w/mascarpone frosting Exercise: 4:50-5:35 am Erin O'Brien's Strong Body, Fit Body DVD 5:35-5:50 am Jessica Smith Power Walk Quickie YouTube 4:15-4:45 pm Jessica Smith Dance Party YouTube

Thurs 20 Nov

Frustration is ebbing a little with my boss/coworkers for their resentment of seniority, the only remaining privilege which is to choose our nasty on-call weeks first. I plan to have a little chat with my boss today to remind her that I put in many years at the low end of the seniority pile when it meant even more. May not do any good, but I will likely feel better. This morning is the annual Gilfry Thanksgiving brunch. I made cranberry waldorf. Food: 7:00 am Small Costco cinnamon pull-apart, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 9:30 am Thanksgiving brunch: scrambled eggs w/veggies, cheesy potatoes, fruit salad, cranberry waldorf, green bean casserole, 3 little meatballs, pumpkin fluff w/4 vanilla wafers, sm chocolate muffin 10:30 am Small blueberry danish pastry 12:30 pm Slice Polish apple cake 5:45 pm Wild caught marinated salmon filet 6 oz, 1/2 c heirloom wild rice blend, 1 c snap peas, 8 oz Surly Coffee Bender Exercise: 4:55-5:45 am Leslie Sansone Fast 4 Mile YouTube

Wed 19 Nov

The Rockman class was great last night. Excellent pumpkin soup w/a slice of caramelized bacon, a beet/apple/cheese tart, roast pork loin, grilled zucchini, and a potato/lentil salad. Dessert was an outstanding apple/carrot cake w/mascarpone frosting and an apple cider caramel filling/drizzle. Wow. Food: 7:00 am Small Costco cinnamon pull-apart, 1/2 grapefruit, 98 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 5:00-5:30 am Jessica Smith Resistance Band Total Body YouTube 5:30-6:00 am Jessica Smith Latin Dance YouTube

Tues 18 Nov

Tonight we have our first Rockman's cooking class of this season. We have really enjoyed these classes. Dad gets a chance to work in the kitchen without being right on top of me and suffering my tyranny. I learn valuable tips and techniques, and we enjoy a nice meal with wine at the end of the evening. Food: 6:50 am Small Costco cinnamon pull-apart, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am Vanilla soy shake, slice Omega 3 multigrain bread w/butter, 27 g cheddar cheese, 99 g raspberries, Nestle fat free cocoa Exercise: 4:50-5:45 am DWTS DVD

Mon 17 Nov

Great trip to Minneapolis, but had a bout of upset stomach yesterday on the way home. A touch of griping in the guts. Didn't spoil the fun of listening to the Packer game on the radio, though. Didn't make it back in time for choir, so was able to just relax in the evening. Food: 7:00 am Small Costco cinnamon pull-apart roll, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:55 am Chobani pumpkin Greek yogurt, 2 slices cinnamon struan toast w/butter, 100 g raspberries Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video

Thurs 13 Nov

So far, nice trip. The room at the Hyatt is spacious and comfortable. Yesterday we had a very good lunch at the Finnish Bistro, found our hotel and had a brief rest, did IKEA when almost no one else was there, stopped at Target to get me a cheap replacement watch as they did not have the right battery size. My watch had just stopped around 1:45 today. Dinner at the Red Stag was delicious. Hoping for another satisfying day today. Planning to spend most of it taking our time in the big mall. We usually only do an afternoon there, and it is pretty constant walking to see what we want. Today we will have time to dawdle, maybe lunch at Tiger Sushi, coffee in the afternoon, and find a nice place for dinner. Breakfast was really good. Half an English with an egg, a little cheese, sautéed spinach and mushrooms, a small bowl of oatmeal w/golden raisins, craisins, and granola and skim milk, fresh grapefruit sections, fresh mixed fruit, OJ and coffee. Returned to the room for a half hour Jessica Smith cardio boot camp boogie. Soon ready to go "do the mall"!

Wed 12 Nov

Here we go, extended Minneapolis visit. We will spend time on Saturday with Kurt & Barb, but otherwise we will do some shopping at the Mall, IKEA, other malls, bakery in Hastings for struan bread, and just relax. We are staying at the Hyatt Place near the Mall. They appear to have a very nice breakfast with egg white sandwiches, etc. Today we eat lunch at the Finnish Bistro, and possibly dinner at the Red Stag Supper Club. Food: 6:20 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 5:00-6:00 am Leslie Sansone Fast 4 Miles walk YouTube

Tues 11 Nov

More snow falling, not sure how much we're supposed to get here. Sounds like there will definitely be snow down in Minneapolis for our visit. I was blessed with a completely quiet week on the pager, not a peep. I feel badly for TJ who had it last week and had several calls come in just before midnight. I have had weeks like that and it is quite stressful, disturbing your sleep. I actually got good rest this week since it did not wake me and I went to bed on time every night except Packer night which was about 45 min late. Last night I hit the hay early to make up for it. Food: 6:55 am Chocolate chip muffin, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee 11:25 am Fit & Active pumpkin yogurt, 2 slices struan toast w/butter, 102 g raspberries 2:45 pm 1 Snickers mini, .75 oz Reese's PB cup 5:15 pm 3 oz leftover ham, 1/2 c leftover bourbon mashed sweet potatoes, 1/2 c squash, apple crisp Exercise: 4:50-5:50 am Dance DVD 6:25-7:00 pm Jessica Smith Interval Walk/Jog YouTube

Mon 10 Nov

That was a fun Packer game to watch, though I admit I went to bed a few plays after halftime. Nice to watch Aaron and Jordy and crew having so much fun. Clay Matthews looked like a kid running around having a ball. And the pager has not disturbed me all week, so I only have one more evening to wear it before I can turn it over to the next person. I have another week in mid-December, but it was supposed to be New Year's and I traded. Now we are considering going to De Pere for the New Year's Eve dinner and overnight. I like the fact that the Scottish baker's chocolate raspberry muffins don't look or feel like dessert for breakfast. The tastes of chocolate and fresh raspberries are there, but there is the appearance of whole grain and a heartiness that makes you feel slightly less guilty. Stressful day at work, ate too much chocolate. Broke out my daughter-knit hat this evening for a walk in the wintry mist. Food: 7:05 am Chocolate raspberry muffin, 1/2 grapefruit, 98 g blackberries, coffee 11:40 am Fit & Active pumpkin pie yogurt, 2 slices cinnamon raisin struan toast, butter, 100 g raspberries 2:30 pm 2 Milky Way Midnight minis, 1 Snickers mini, 1 Milky Way fun size 5:45 pm 1/2 c sloppy joe, bun, large pear, 8 oz skim milk Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video 6:25-6:55 pm Walk with Dad

Sun 9 Nov

Hear tell there's a real winter snowstorm on the way - 6-12 inches possible. We'll see. Should be down and cleared off the roads before we drive to Minneapolis. Food: 7:35 am Dresden slice pastry, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm 2 eggs, ham, chopped red pepper, kale, shredded cheddar, 2 slices cinnamon raisin struan toast, butter, Ghirardelli brownie 1:45 pm Teavana tea 6:35 pm 3 oz Costco rotisserie chicken breast, 1/2 c bourbon mashed pecan sweet potatoes, 96 g raspberries, 20 cal hot cocoa Exercise: 6:30-6:45 am Jessica Smith Cardio Ballet Intermediate YouTube 6:45-7:25 am Jessica Smith Latin Dance Walk YouTube

Sat 8 Nov

We are now able to arrange via email to pick up fresh pastries from Bakery on the Lake, our favorite Scotch baker on Lake Emily, on Saturday mornings en route to markets in Rapids and Wausau. We rendezvous at the Target parking lot. This morning, he was making gibassier (my favorites!) but he called to say he must have forgotten the yeast because they did not rise and were little inedible bullets. I "settled" for chocolate croissants, Dresden slices, and chocolate/raspberry and pumpkin muffins to be eaten over the course of the short week before we go to Minneapolis. Food: 7:15 am 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 8:15 am Large chocolate croissant (still warm!), coffee 1:50 pm Slice multigrain omega 3 toast, 1 tbl peanut butter, Fit & Active pumpkin pie yogurt Exercise: 4:25-5:10 pm Jessica Smith Indoor Jogging YouTube

Fri 7 Nov

Took a long time to get to sleep last night due to a stabbing, recurrent pain in my left big toe. I assume it's the old arthritis that just picked tonight to flare up, but I couldn't find a way to lay my foot to make it stop. Eventually it either slowed down or I developed a tolerance, and then I think I slept like the dead. I sure could use a couple more hours, though. Food: 6:55 am Happy Farms light spreadable cheese wedge, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee 8:00 am Fiber One Gingerbread bar 9:30 am Milky Way Midnight mini, Kit Kat fun size 11:45 am Fit & Active Pumpkin Pie yogurt, slice multigrain Omega 3 toast, 1/4 tbl butter, 1 tbl raspberry jam, large pear 12:30 pm Ghirardelli dark chocolate brownie 4:30 pm 14 g cashews Exercise: 4:55-5:35 am Jessica Smith Stride & Strength YouTube 5:35-6:00 am Jessica Smith Dance Walk YouTube

Thurs 6 Nov

Opened a new box of TJ's cereal today and it appears something had gotten in to it. The box top was a little caved in, though not completely loosened, the inner bag was crushed down on top of the cereal and had a 2" somewhat ragged slit in it. Not using that box. Food: 6:50 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm Light & Fit pumpkin pie yogurt, slice multigrain Omega 3 toast, 1/4 tbl butter, 1 tbl raspberry jam, large pear 5:15 pm Leftover beef liver w/caramelized onions & balsamic vinegar, 1/2 c couscous w/roasted garlic & olive oil, 3/4 c roasted butternut squash Exercise: 4:50-5:50 am Leslie Sansone 4 Fast Miles YouTube

Wed 5 Nov

Still feeling the effects of the cold, but at least was able to sleep and breathe last night without medication. That's always a step in the right direction. Finished my newest Outlander novel last night - very satisfying ending. She could conceivably stop the series here with a "happily ever after" sort of feel, but I suspect she has a few more in her. Time to switch reading gears again. Well, I saved a lot of calorie consumption. I ate one small sliver of the Costco pumpkin pie and stored the remainder out on the ledge, covered tightly with foil and the lid. The pie was crawling with ants when I went to get another piece tonight. Food: 6:50 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 10:30 am Cup echinacea tea 12:30 pm Strawberry/banana soy shake, slice multigrain omega 3 toast, 1 tbl peanut butter, 98 g raspberries 12:55 pm Fun size M&M Peanut 6:00 pm Applebee's chicken w/portabella mushrooms and zucchini Exercise: 4:50-5:40 am Jessica Smith Belly, Buns & Thighs YouTube 4:50-5:10 pm Dance to Bob Marley

Tues 4 Nov

Last chance to vote today if you haven't already done so. Hopefully intelligence will prevail in Wisconsin this day, though I don't hold my breath. I was given 6 pkgs of fresh beef liver from some people who got a whole cow but were less than enamored with liver. I cooked up the first pound tonight with caramelized onions, balsamic vinegar and cloves and it was AMAZING! And BTW, Naughty Girl pairs very well with liver. Food: 6:55 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 104 g blackberries, coffee 11:50 am Blueberry soy shake, slice multigrain omega 3 bread, 1 tbl peanut butter, 98 g raspberries 12:30 pm .6 oz Reese's peanut butter cup 3:00 pm 2 Milky Way miniatures 5:35 pm 1/4 lb beef liver with caramelized onion, 1/2 c mashed potatoes, 3/4 c cooked broccoli, 3 oz Naughty Girl wine Exercise: 4:50-5:35 am DWTS DVD 5:35-5:50 am Jessica Smith Power Walk Quickie YouTube 6:00-6:30 pm Walk with Dad

Mon 3 Nov

Tomorrow starts a week of on-call again (as the moon approaches the full). I don't know why I always get a cold or other malaise just before I go on call. At least if I don't get a lot of calls, I stay at home and rest more. Food: 6:55 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 11:50 am Peach soy shake, slice multigrain bread, 1 tbl raspberry jam, 1 tsp butter, 3 cheese fries 12:30 pm Kit Kat fun size 3:15 pm Almond Joy fun size, 3 Musketeers mini 6:30 pm Sm pc smoked salmon quiche, 1/2 c mashed acorn squash, 1/2 c applesauce Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video 4:50-5:50 pm Richard Simmons DVD

Sun 2 Nov

God bless 12-hour Sudafed! It was so nice to be able to breathe freely all night long. I could feel the medication at work so I'm reasonably sure I wouldn't have been breathing clearly without it. I feel so much better rested. Yesterday was a very nice day. We had a relaxed breakfast at home, then drove to Green Bay and had lunch in De Pere at the little bakery because Cafe Chanson no longer is open for lunch on Saturday. We made dinner reservations there for 5 pm, then went to Costco and took our time shopping. We were able to return the unopened bag of 150 candy bars, thus removing that temptation from the house. We still had 2 1/2 hours to kill, so we drove to a winery nearby that had been closed when we tried it previously. We did a nice wine tasting and then walked for about half an hour on a rural bike path that ran right in front of the winery. With driving time, this was just right to get us back to Cafe Chanson in time for a lovely dinner. We were able to be home around 7:30 with time to change the laundry load and the clocks and get some good reading and rest for my cold. Food: 7:45 am Krispie roll, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 11:30 am White chocolate lace cookie, sm pc pumpkin cake, sugar cookie 12:30 pm 2 scramble eggs, 1 slice multigrain toast, 1/4 tbl butter, 103 g raspberries 6:45 pm 3 oz Costco chicken breast, 1/2 c mashed sweet potato, 1/2 c mashed acorn squash, 1/16 Costco pumpkin pie Exercise: 5:50-6:35 am Jessica Smith Cardio Ballet YouTube 6:35-7:25 am Jessica Smith Indoor Jogging YouTube 2:40-3:40 pm Walk with Dad

Sat 1 Nov

Didn't get as many Trick or Treaters as expected yesterday, only about 148. I missed a bunch early on because our new porch light won't come on until it gets dark outside. I saw several batches of people pass right by the door until I figured out that I had to go outside (in the cold) and stand on the step for them to know we were participating. Even then, people sometimes went on the other side of the street because they would scout out the porch lights from a distance and not even come our way. We have a whole Costco bag of 150 candy bars unopened, so we're going to ask if we can return it if we go to Green Bay Costco today. Otherwise I'll take it in to work and have the receptionists stock their staff candy dish for awhile. I only ate 1 small Kit Kat all day yesterday! My cold is definitely worse, though I don't yet need an exorcist. I'm just hoping it stays out of my throat until after tomorrow because Deb asked me to cantor with Chuck. I could also use the practice at choir on the Bach Magnificat. Food: 7:35 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 31 Oct

Happy Halloween! My cold has blossomed out quite well by now. Lee Olsen tells me they had a cold go through the Newman office that made you feel like you needed an exorcist. I'm hoping that's not the version I'm getting. The chef's dinner last night was a lot of fun. The pumpkin martini was absolutely delicious, even if it was more like dessert than an aperitif. The amuse was larger than typical, with 2 good-sized seared scallops on an amazing corn elote. Appetizer was okay - duck cassoulet-style meatballs. The butternut/buttercup squash soup served in an acorn squash bowl was wonderful. The entree was tenderloin steak a poivre slices, beautifully rare, with patty pan/mushroom and fancy sliced specialty potatoes. Pumpkin pie for dessert and a chaser sample of a rum cocktail w/3 kinds of bitters. Very nice. Food: 7:05 am 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am 1/2 pasty, Nestle Fat Free hot cocoa Exercise: 4:50-5:25 am Jessica Smith Stride & Strength YouTube 5:25-5:55 am Jessica Smith Power Walk YouTube

Thurs 30 Oct

Michele's dinner tonight. We returned the TMNT costumes (after all, we would have been SMNT, Senior Mutant Ninja Turtles!). I resurrected my witch hat and broom and my striped orange/black tights with a black shirt and skirt. Dad is wearing a grey turtleneck and pants and the papier-mâché horse head mask. Somehow we will feel less silly in these things. Chuck/Deb and Lee/Gary will be there, and I would have felt silly in the TMNT pajamas with people I know. I definitely am getting a cold today, so I think I'll opt out of contacts in my eyes. I'll do a little more zinc today to try to get rid of it before it hits full-fledged. Always disconcerting when Michael has visited and readjusted the height of my computer chair. I fell into it at lunch today because it was a couple of inches lower than expected. Food: 6:50 am Steel cut oatmeal w/protein powder, flaxseed meal, 1/2 c blueberries, soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm Light & Fit Citrus Blend Greek blend yogurt, 70 g raspberries, 2 Perkins mini-muffins Exercise: 4:50-5:45 am Leslie Sansone Fast 4 Miles YouTube

Wed 29 Oct

Slept about 9 hr 20 min last night; think I'm trying to come down with a cold so needing to fight it off. Will pop Cold-Eze all day if I remember. Dad and I bought costumes last night to wear to the Michele's Halloween dinner tomorrow evening. We both bought TMNT pajama-like suits. We will wear Cuddl-Duds underneath for warmth. Should be fun. Food: 6:55 am Apple muffin, 1/2 grapefruit, 112 g blackberries (finished the package), coffee 12:00 pm 4 oz chicken breast, 1 slice cheddar cheese, 1/2 c broccoli, bun, 2 bites turtle cheesecake 3:15 pm 3 Musketeers mini 6:15 pm 134 g pasty, 2/3 c homemade applesauce Exercise: 4:50-5:35 am Erin O'Brien Fit and Ageless DVD 5:35-6:00 am Jessica Smith Dance Walk YouTube 4:45-5:10 pm Brief walk in neighborhood

Tues 28 Oct

Really didn't sleep well the last couple of hours of last night. Quite rare for me to lay awake for an extended period feeling anxious. I discovered on the credit card statement yesterday that these magazines I got for $2 are now automatically renewing at considerably higher rates. I thought if I didn't manually renew, they would just stop but they obviously have the system down. Now I need to contact each one and cancel and try to get my money back for the two that have successfully hit the charge statement. I am not looking forward to it. No more accepting offers for low cost magazines. I don't have time to read them anyway. Food: 6:45 am Apple muffin, 1/2 grapefruit, 102 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am Slice 12 grain bread, 1/2 tbl butter, 1/4 oz extra sharp cheddar, 1 c fresh apple cider 12:30 pm 1/2 200-cal dark chocolate almond bar 6:35 pm Sm bowl chili, 1 tbl light sour cream, 2 tbl shredded cheddar, 4 oz Naughty Girl wine Exercise: 4:50-5:45 am Cardio Dance DVD

Mon 27 Oct

Good thing I went to bed when I did last night; it sounds like the remainder of the Packer game would not have been pleasant to watch. Sleep was a better choice. The chili was good. We picked bowls this year at Empty Bowls that looked somewhat professionally made; they were deep and small and the perfect size for 2 ladles of chili. I also made a Hungry Girl recipe for 2-ingredient brownie-like muffins made from a devil's food cake mix and a can of pumpkin, nothing else. The batter is very thick and the muffins are kind of lumpy-looking, but they are chocolately delicious. You can fool yourself to think they're not too bad for you since you're getting 1/12 of a can of pumpkin in each one, but there are apparently 20 g of sugar from the cake mix. Oh, well. Food: 6:55 am 1/2 bear claw pastry, 1/2 grapefruit, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am Chocolate soy shake, slice cranberry oat bread, 58 g oven roasted chicken breast, 101 g raspberries 12:30 pm Chocolate pumpkin muffin Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video

Sun 26 Oct

Sun is shining nicely this morning. Hope it lasts all day. Just regular stuff on the agenda today: church, choir. Hope to get to bake cranberry orange bread and/or pumpkin bread today as that didn't happen yesterday. The rotisserie duck was amazing, though. And while I was cooking, I lightly fried up the duck liver and it was WOW! Speaking of liver, Heather is planning to bring me beef liver and a beef heart this week. Her sister and husband (they who adopted 6 extra kids) are buying a whole cow and are not too interested in some parts. Heather knows I am a more adventurous eater and so offered me the liver. She thought of looking for a class who might want to dissect the heart and was surprised (and a little grossed out) that I said I'd take it and cook it. Food: 8:10 am 1/2 large bear claw pastry, 1/2 grapefruit, 105 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm 2 Perkins pumpkin pancakes, 1 tbl whipped topping, 2 chicken sausages, 2 med eggs, coffee Exercise: 6:50-7:20 am Jessica Smith Kickboxing Ballet YouTube 7:20-7:50 am Jessica Smith Dance Party YouTube

Sat 25 Oct

Less than a week to Halloween! We have walk to Farmer's Market and Empty Bowls this morning, and then I hope to have energy to do some cleaning as well as laundry. I bought a frozen duck at Aldi's last night which I hope will be sufficiently thawed to put on the rotisserie this afternoon/evening for dinner. I'd also like to make another apple crisp while the apples are still fresh. 8:15 am 107 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 24 Oct

Friday certainly took its good-natured time getting here this week. But at least it is finally here. Predictions are for lovely weather, and I should be able to be done at 3:30 so we can get up to Rib for one of the final after-work hikes of the season. May try to get reservations at the Pinewood for after-hiking fish. Food: 6:50 am Wedge Happy Farms light spreadable cheese, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 8:15 am 2 eggs, 3 pc bacon, 1 slice French toast, 1/2 tbl whipped butter, 1/2 tbl syrup, coffee 12:00 pm Blueberry soy shake, slice cranberry oat bread, 63 g black forest turkey, sm Beacon apple Exercise: 4:55-5:35 am MD workout DVD, middle level 5:35-5:47 am Jessica Smith Power Walk Quickie YouTube

Thurs 23 Oct

Sleepy this morning. Alarm went off in the middle of a deeper stage so it's harder to come awake. Still don't think I'm quite there. Did a more step-intensive routine this morning since it's predicted to be rainy and therefore hard to walk outside tonight. Will try to move around more at the office so I can get 10,000 early enough to earn a rest this evening. Have time tonight to make my quiche with smoked trout and caramelized onions. Found a recipe to make the Aperol spritz as a treat while waiting. Food: 6:45 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/2 grapefruit, 98 g blackberries, coffee 11:00 am 1 Caramel Nip 12:40 pm Vanilla soy shake, slice cranberry oat bread, 53 g black forest turkey, sm banana 2:45 pm Slice marble cake w/whipped frosting (retirement) 5:30 pm Aperol spritz 6:40 pm 1/8 smoked trout caramelized onion quiche Exercise: 4:55-5:45 am Leslie Sansone Fast 4 Mile Walk YouTube

Wed 22 Oct

Did a new exercise video this morning with Erin O'Brien. Doesn't count for many steps, but an excellent strength workout with pliometrics. I will feel this one. It is 45 min, so I had a little time to do some walking on my own to up the step count slightly, and hopefully we will take advantage of beautiful weather to hike tonight. Food: 6:55 am Morning bun, 1/2 grapefruit, 102 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm 4 oz chicken breast, 1 slice Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, bun, 1 c fruit salad 3:30 pm Fiber One gingerbread bar 5:15 pm 3 pc dark chocolate super fruits 6:35 pm Whole Hog Pumpkin Ale 12 oz, 1 c smoked brown sugar trout, pumpkin squash ravioli frozen entree Exercise: 4:50-5:35 am Erin O'Brien Fit and Ageless DVD 5:35-5:50 am Walking exercise 5:30-6:20 pm Walk with Dad at Schmeeckle

Tues 21 Oct

Nasty musician's workshop last night at St. Stan's, jointly w/Newman and Stan's music ministers. They had a speaker who talked extensively on leaving your ego at the door, but she surely liked to hear herself talk and sing. After over 1 1/2 hours, Father Tom asked her if she was aware of the time, and she still went on for about half an hour more. I didn't stay for the wine/dessert social. I was in bed 15 min after I left. At least she had prepared me well for sleep. Food: 6:50 am Pig's ear pastry, 1/2 grapefruit, 99 g blackberries, coffee 1:15 pm Slice cranberry oat bread, 56 g black forest turkey, 1/2 c applesauce 1:45 pm Fiber One Gingerbread bar 5:35 pm 14 g Pumpkin Cranberry tortilla chips 6:55 pm Chicken veggie casserole, 8 oz skim milk, spoonful hot fudge topping Exercise: 4:55-5:50 am DWTS DVD 5:45-6:50 pm Walk w/Dad to Schmeeckle

Mon 20 Oct

Another week ahead. Tonight is a Newman music minister meeting to look ahead to Advent. The weather forecast for the week looks very nice - mild and some sunshine, so we should be able to get in some hikes while there's a little after-work daylight left. I didn't get my quiche made yet because neither of us were hungry Sunday evening after a big Olympic lunch with Michael and Taylor. Will try to find an evening this week to do it right after work. Every year at work, we do a little "fall festival" week with special events. Monday of that week is always "Sundae Monday" and it fell today. Admin buys the ice cream and cheap toppings as a good will gesture. Food: 7:00 am Chocolate croissant, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm Vanilla soy shake, slice cranberry oat bread, 50 g oven roasted chicken breast, sm Beacon apple 2:15 pm 1/2 c vanilla ice cream, 1 tbl chocolate syrup, 1 tbl caramel syrup, 1 tbl chopped pecans 5:45 pm Chicken broccoli casserole, 1/2 c homemade applesauce, 2 oz skim milk (before I realized it was old) Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video 5:05-5:20 pm Jessica Smith Interval Walk YouTube (interspersed with tending applesauce on stove)

Sun 19 Oct

Had a really nice day in Madison. Was especially nice to spend some time with daughter. Food: 7:30 am Almond croissant, 1/2 grapefruit, 100 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am Cheese omelet w/veggie topping, 1 slice homemade grilled toast w/butter & 1/2 orange marmalade, slice cantaloupe, slice honeydew 6:15 pm 4 sm pieces leftover Wheel House pizza, Fiber One Gingerbread bar Exercise: 5:55-6:40 am Jessica Smith Barre YouTube 6:40-7:10 am Jessica Smith Dance Walk YouTube 4:15-5:25 pm Walk w/Dad at Mead Wildlife area

Sat 18 Oct

It's not raining so we will do a quick walk down to the Farmer's Market for pastries and stop at the coffee shop for cappuccino with which to enjoy them. I have sheets in the wash machine and hope to swap them to the dryer and put in another load before heading down to Madison. Hopefully we'll still make it by brunch time. Food: 8:25 am 1/4 cantaloupe, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 17 Oct

Had a nice, albeit brief, hike at Rib last night before the trail got too dark. It was a beautiful taste of late fall. If it's gorgeous again tonight, we might go to Mead. I was tired this morning, but I don't think it has anything to do with hiking. Just a little low on energy. Breakfast client was a no-show. Alternative was McD's. Food: 6:50 am 1/4 cantaloupe, 100 g blackberries, wedge Happy Farms light spreadable cheese, coffee 8:30 am. McD's egg white delight muffin 11:45 am 1/2 Monte Cristo sandwich, med banana 12:30 pm 5 pc Indian corn 535 pm 12 oz pumpkin ale, 1 leftover spare rib, 3/4 cooked butternut squash Exercise: 4:50-5:10 am Jessica Smith Cardio Sculpt YouTube (had to stop it early because my right shoulder was complaining about weights today) 5:10-5:45 am Jessica Smith Dance Walk YouTube 4:45-5:20 pm Jessica Smith Disco Dance Walk YouTube

Thurs 16 Oct

Made it through all day yesterday without undue sleepiness! Was so nice to have a regular day again. Hoping the trend continues. Food: 6:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/4 cantaloupe, 102 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm Vanilla soy shake, slice cranberry oat bread, 61 g oven roasted chicken breast, sm banana Exercise: 4:55-5:35 am Jessica Smith Belly, Buns & Thighs workout YouTube 5:35-5:45 am Sampled a couple of other Jessica Smith routines

Wed 15 Oct

I really hope whatever is afflicting me will be done soon. I made it to 2:00 pm yesterday before having to come home and flop into bed. Slept two hours, then rested the remainder of the evening. Again I feel fine this morning, though not highly energetic, but I'm worried now if I can make it a whole day again. I have the sick time from work, but sooner or later they're going to get tired of me going home in the afternoons. I'm glad it's a week with non-hiking weather or I'd feel awful not being able to go out so close to the end of the season. Ain't no way I could hike in the evenings with as tired as I've been. I've been striving to get at least 5000 steps with my morning exercise, and then to put on as many as possible during the time I am at work. Last night I did a 10-min walking routing at 6:30 just to top off the 10,000. Three days in a row now with only 10-11,000 - I feel a slackard. Food: 6:55 am Honey bear pastry, 1/4 cantaloupe, 103 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am 1/2 Monte Cristo sandwich, 1 c mixed fruit 4:50 pm 1 orange hard candy Exercise: 4:55-5:30 am Jessica Smith Stride & Strength YouTube 5:30-5:55 am Jessica Smith Power Interval Walk YouTube

Tues 14 Oct

Trying again to get our biometric screening requirement for non-inflated health insurance premiums completed this morning. Last week, we both forgot and had breakfast before our 8:30 am fasting blood draw. This week I couldn't get an appointment until 9:30, so we will be that much hungrier. Somehow a glass of water for breakfast is not very satisfying. Feel better today for having rested from about 1:30 pm on yesterday. 5 hours on the couch and to bed about half an hour early helps. Thought I was going to faint without any food by 9:40 appointment but was very glad to scarf down the blackberries and SoyJoy bar after. We had a birthday lunch at Noodles for the gal who took in the six kids (on top of her own three) when her husband's aunt died. I tried to get busy after lunch, but my eyes just would not stay open so I gave in at 2:00 pm and came home to sleep for a couple of hours. I hope whatever is dragging me down works it's way out of my system soon. This is a little nuts. Food: 10:00 am 101 g blackberries, SoyJoy bar 12:00 pm Fig N Pig Flatbread, bowl Thai Curry soup 4:15 pm Caramel & pecans from half an apple (apple looks a little iffy) 6:00 pm 1 leftover dry rub rib, 1/2 c butternut squash Exercise: 4:50-5:45 am Cardio Dance DVD

Mon 13 Oct

Didn't make it to the grocery store this weekend for breakfast fruit. I thawed some of the Bayfield blueberries so I would have something. Quite low on energy today so an apple seemed too much work. Dry rub spare ribs w/apple in the crock pot for tonight's supper. Looks good. Gave in to being tired at about 1:30 pm and came home from work. Laid on the couch and watched 1 1/2 Harry Potter movies, though I napped through part of Chamber of Secrets. Went to Aldi's with Dad when he got home from work for a few needed items, then made mashed potatoes and enjoyed the ribs. Off to bed soon. Food: 6:55 am Chocolate croissant, 1/2 c blueberries, coffee 12:05 pm Vanilla soy shake, slice apple cinnamon bread, 1/4 tbl butter, pumpkin pie yogurt, med banana 12:45 pm 5 pc Indian corn 1:30 pm Wellness tea 3:30 pm 1/4 serving Quaker Oat Squares 7:30 pm 3 oz dry rub spare ribs, 3/4 c broccoli, 1/2 c mashed Yukon Gold potatoes, 8 oz skim milk Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video

Sun 12 Oct

Body tired and achy today. Twelve miles seemed long last night. My body would have been very glad to stop at ten, but we made it just fine. Needed ibuprofen at bedtime and in the middle of the night, but was okay to get up and exercise this morning. Quite a game. Watched the first half at the chili lunch at Pacelli. Second half at home, nearly dozing in the third quarter, wide awake at the end. Ate too many sweets at Pacelli. Food: 8:10 am Gibassier-like pastry, 1/4 large cantaloupe, coffee 11:45 am Bowl chili 1/4 c shredded cheese, .75 tbl sour cream, pumpkin chocolate chip cookie, large chocolate chocolate chip cookie, 2 toffee bars 6:30 pm Bowl butternut squash soup, slice apple crisp Exercise: 6:50-7:20 am Jessica Smith Cardio Ballet YouTube 7:20-7:55 am Jessica Smith Power Walk YouTube

Sat 11 Oct

Looking forward to a Saturday at home to get some things accomplished. Starting the day with a walk to the Farmer's Market (after getting the sheets hung outside). Pastries and cappuccino at the coffee shop, buying some good seasonal produce. I hope to get a bunch of squash, a pie pumpkin, and some poblano peppers roasted this afternoon so I'm poised to make soup and other good things soon. Took down sheets and hung out next load upon return home, and sitting down to lunch of my homemade Moroccan three bean stew (finally!) Tonight is the Moon Walk Wisconsin, and we should have a beautiful October evening to stroll to Arnott and back from Plover. Tomorrow, Newman (and that other parish) are having a chili lunch with the Packer game playing after church. Food: 9:00 am Gibassier-type pastry, large cappuccino 11:45 am 1 c 3-bean soup, slice apple cinnamon bread, 1/4 tbl butter, 104 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 8:40-9:00 am Walk to Farmer's Market 11:00-11:20 am Walk home

Fri 10 Oct

It's a brisk 63° in our house this morning, thanks to leaving windows open for the last of the season's fresh air. Supposed to warm up into the 50s again today, so the house should get better when the sun comes up fully. Seem to have slightly strained my neck this morning, and my legs are sore from Kathy Smith on Wed. Food: 6:55 am Happy Farms light spreadable cheese wedge, 98 g blackberries, 1/4 cantaloupe, coffee 11:50 am Vanilla soy shake, slice apple cinnamon toast, 1/4 tbl butter, caramel macchiato Greek blend yogurt 2:30 pm 1 oz cinnamon pretzels Exercise: 4:50-5:25 am Jessica Smith Stride & Strength Resistance Band YouTube 5:25-5:55 am Jessica Smith Power Interval Walk YouTube 3:10-3:25 pm Walk around work

Thurs 9 Oct

Having oatmeal this morning with blueberries from Bayfield bought directly from the grower at his orchard. They are most delicious. Food: 6:55 am Steel cut oatmeal w/flaxseed meal, protein powder, 1/2 c blueberries, soy milk, 1/4 cantaloupe, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm Vanilla soy shake, Fit & Active pumpkin pie yogurt, slice apple cinnamon swirl bread, 1/4 tbl butter 3:00 pm 2 miniature candy bars 4:45 pm 1 butter mint 6:45 pm Grilled chicken leg, 1/2 c grilled fingerling potatoes, 2/3 c broccoli, 8 oz skim milk, Jello sugar-free dark chocolate pudding cup Exercise: 4:55-5:25 am Jessica Smith Latin Dance Walk YouTube 5:25-5:50 am Jessica Smith Dance Walk YouTube 3:20-3:30 pm Walk outside work

Wed 8 Oct

Temperatures this week are good for transition from summer to fall. Just enough sunshine and warmth to not move things too quickly, but cool enough to notice. Sigh. I guess it's inevitable. Saw on Facebook that Eddie Hartman just turned 21. Now all of you kids from our friend group are full-fledged adults. Scary. Food: 6:50 am 3/4 c Heritage flakes, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/4 c large cantaloupe, 62 g blackberries, apple cider donut (last one), coffee Exercise: 4:50-5:35 am Kathy Smith Weights DVD 5:35-5:50 am Jessica Smith Power Walk Quickie YouTube

Tues 7 Oct

Good hike at Rib last night, beautiful colors, but it started getting dark on the way down. The season is almost past for the after-work hikes there. Food: 6:50 am 3/4 c Heritage flakes, 1/2 c light original soy milk, apple cider donut, 94 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am Vanilla soy shake, apple cinnamon scone, 1/2 caramel apple w/pecans 12:30 pm 2 pc dark chocolate super fruits 3:30 pm 1/2 c cinnamon pretzels Exercise: 4:50-5:50 am DWTS DVD

Mon 6 Oct

Home again now with no further planned overnighters on the schedule. Will likely do the usual Minneapolis trip in Nov, but it's still not firmed up. Need to stay home awhile now and earn some money. Am looking forward to visiting Madison for the day either Oct 18 or 25, though. Food: 7:00 am 3/4 c Heritage flakes, 1/2 c light original soy milk, apple cider donut, 98 g blackberries, coffee 11:20 am Vanilla soy shake, apple cinnamon scone, Beacon apple Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video

Sat 4 Oct

Rained most of the night but is just supposed to be cloudy and chilly today. Will bum around the town festival activities and go out to a couple of orchards today after breakfast.

Fri 3 Oct

Looking forward to heading up to Bayfield for Apple Fest today, but I do wish it was going to be warm and sunny again like last week. Guess we can't have it all. The time off and the new experience, coupled with 2 nights in the nice B&B we discovered in Port Wing (and a chance to get some more of that delicious smoked lake trout!) will be sufficient. We drove north in rain of varying intensity pretty much all the way to Ashland, stopping in Medford for cappuccino made in the shop attached to the fishing/bait shop. Had an early supper while the high school homecoming parade took place outside. It snowed lightly most of the drive up to Port Wing. We had stopped at the grocery store after supper and picked up a package of bakery chocolate cookies as we didn't expect to go out again from the B&B. we indeed did stay in and read so the chocolate cookies were a nice evening sweet. Karleen made me some delicious fruity tea. Food: 6:45 am 1/4 cantaloupe, 100 g blackberries, wedge Happy Farms light spreadable cheese, coffee 8:15 am Crepe, 2 scrambled eggs, veggie mix, coffee 11:45 am Fit & Active pumpkin pie yogurt, sm honey crisp 4:45 pm. Whitefish sandwich w/ spinach, tomato, mayo, sweet potato fries, pickle spear, 2 sm wedges sliced pineapple, 10 oz Applefest beer Exercise: 4:50-5:45 am Leslie Sansone Four Fast Miles YouTube

Thurs 2 Oct

Scale back up a tad this morning, but I had a chicken sandwich at Hilltop for birthday lunch and sushi for dinner, so the excess salt is showing itself in tightness of my rings. Hopefully a brief setback and still heading in the right direction. I did try to choose simple, healthy choices with minimal extras. Not one of my more pleasant days at work. Extremely busy intake morning, found out a conference I had expected to attend at the end of the month is already filled so I can't go, and another conference next Thursday for which I was already approved, I was asked to give up my place for a new employee in the kids' section because everyone else in their section is attending and there was no more room left for her. Food: 6:45 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/4 cantaloupe, 100 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am Bowl chili, 1/4 c shredded cheddar, 1 tbl sour cream, chocolate chip cookie bar 3:00 pm Chocolate chip nut bar leftover from Grand Marais 6:15 pm Macaroni and cheese, 1/4 c acorn squash, 8 oz skim milk Exercise: 4:50-5:30 am Jessica Smith Abs Walk Workout YouTube 5:30-5:45 am Jessica Smith Power Walk Quickie YouTube 5:35-6:05 pm Walk with Dad

Wed 1 Oct

A wee bit tired today, but not too bad. Looking forward to Apple Fest in Bayfield this weekend. Three successful days so far in cutting back on food intake appropriately. Started getting a little hungry toward the end of yesterday, but okay again after dinner. Will not cut back far enough to be hungry all the time, but need to get moving on losing a few of these extra pounds that have found their way back after vacations. Food: 6:55 am 3/4 c Heritage flakes, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/4 cantaloupe, 99 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm 4 oz chicken breast, 1 slice Swiss cheese, 1/8 c grilled onions, 1/8 c sautéed mushrooms, lettuce leaf, sm tomato slice, bun, 1 c fruit salad, 3 sm bites chocolate cake 6:00 pm 5 pc Kamikaze roll, 4 pc Canada roll, 4 pc Manhattan roll, 5 oz Relax riesling Exercise: 4:50-5:45 am Kristi Yamaguchi Workout DVD 5:25-6:00 pm Walk to Tokyo Steak House 6:30-6:55 pm Walk home

Tues 30 Sept

2014 is almost 75% gone, and this last quarter always flies by. Sigh. But it has been a good year so far, so no real complaints. Onward. Food: 7:00 am 3/4 c Heritage Flakes, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/4 cantaloupe, 99 g blackberries, coffee 11:45 am Vanilla soy shake, 55 g chocolate chip brioche, Fit & Active pumpkin pie yogurt, sm honey crisp 3:15 pm 1 oz cinnamon pretzels 7:25 pm Macaroni and cheese, 1/2 c acorn squash, 1/4 tbl butter, 8 oz skim milk Exercise: 4:55-5:55 am Dance Exercise DVD 5:35-6:35 pm Walk to Schmeeckle with Dad

Mon 29 Sept

Scale is not in a pretty place, has been heading that way for a while with all the vacationing/eating/odd exercise schedule. Time to buckle down. Then I get a text that we have a birthday lunch today. I will still try to keep it low. Food: 7:05 am 3/4 c Heritage Flakes, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/4 c blueberries, 103 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm Blueberry soy shake, 46 g chocolate chip brioche, 42 g oven roasted chicken breast, 1/3 c applesauce 1:15 pm 1.5x3" pumpkin krispie treat 7:00 pm 3.5 oz grilled chicken breast, 1/2 c mashed sweet potato, 1 sm ear grilled corn, 8 oz skim milk Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video

Sun 28 Sept

Slowly slipping back into routine after an unexpectedly longer break. Did a Jessica Smith cardio ballet this morning to increase the steps for the day. Enjoyed a World's Best Donut for breakfast as a holdover, but really need to get back into cutback eating SOON. Supper tonight will be pasties bought from the K of C in Superior on the way home. We noticed a sign by the Catholic church that they were doing a pasty sale, so we pulled in and bought a dozen for the freezer. Hope they're as good as the ones Heather's church makes in February every year. Nice to pop a pasty in the oven after work and have a comfort food supper with the addition of a few veggies or homemade applesauce. The extended time away in combination with the unexpectedly warm weather killed the last cantaloupe I had waiting, so I need to get to the grocery store today for more fruit. Seems the Packers only know how to play football when I'm watching. The two games I was not around, they lost miserably. The two games I watched, they started slowly but came on strong to win. Guess I know my responsibility for the rest of the season. Food: 8:00 am Raised glazed donut, 100 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm Caramel macchiato Greek blend yogurt, sm honey crisp apple, 1 oz Way Better pumpkin cranberry tortilla chips, pumpkin popcorn ball 7:15 pm 152 g pasty, 1/2 c homemade applesauce, 8 oz skim milk Exercise: 6:50-7:20 am Jessica Smith Cardio Ballet YouTube 7:20-7:55 am Cardio Salsa DVD 2:30-2:45 pm Neighborhood walk

Mon 22 Sept

Having a very nice mini-vacation up north. Saturday was a great day, albeit a very busy one. We started with walking to the Farmer's Market for pastry - I had an almond croissant - and cappuccino at the coffee shop. Hit the road right after walking home. The drive north was amazing! The fall color has just popped out all along 51. I found myself oohing and aahing all day. We had lunch in Ashland - whitefish sandwich and yummy sweet potato fries. Drove up to the B&B which is very lovely. Color hasn't yet come to the lakeshore area so maybe we can still look forward to that for Apple Feat. We have the "suite" tonight with a huge bedroom with sitting area, a second small bedroom with twin beds to use as a dressing room, and a nice bathroom. The innkeepers are very personable. We drove into Bayfield right away as church was at 4 pm. Just enough time to stop at an orchard to pick up fresh apples for hiking. Went to Maggie's for pizza after, then hurried back to Port Wing for a Sara Thomsen concert at the little gallery. A very nice small setting, and a very nice talented folk singer. A snack and wine break at intermission with good conversation. A lovely end to a beautiful day Sunday breakfast was wonderful at the B&B. we had good conversation with the other guest couple and the innkeepers over amazing food. Drove off to the North Shore in beautiful sunshine (but no real color here). Stopped for a buffet brunch at a very up-northy place where we sat on a cool screen porch overlooking the lake. Finished our beers outside in the sun to warm up. Checked in to the hotel for a quick nap. Hiked at Oberg Mtn which is only an hour's hike but as beautiful views of the inland maples which are in high color here. Drove back to the hotel and hiked to the trailhead up the hill about 3/4 mile and out to the little waterfall. We were both quite tired from our busy day yesterday, so we went back to the room to read for a couple of hours just to rest. Drove to Papa Charlie's around 7 pm and shared a veggie pasta dish and dessert, then back home to bed. Writing this around 7 am. Time to head to the showe and breakfast at the Lutsen before a full day of hiking. We have smoked fish, honey crisps, and pastry and cookies for our trail lunch!

Sat 20 Sept

Nibbling some quick fruit with coffee before walking to Market for pastry and cappuccino. We are almost completely packed, so then we can "grab and go" to head up to Bayfield/Port Wing for a full day. Lunch at the South Shore Brewery in Ashland, check in at the B&B, head to Bayfield for 4 pm church and a quick supper, return to Port Wing for a 7 pm Sara Thomsen concert in a delightful small venue where people bring snacks to share and they provide wine and beer. Tomorrow, after the wonderful B&B breakfast, we head up to the North Shore. If it's raining when we get there, we'll go to the Cascade Restaurant/bar and watch what remains of the Packer game before checking in to the hotel. If the weather clears, we'll hike in the afternoon; if not, we'll relax and prepare for the predicted sunnier weather on Monday and Tuesday. We might even drive to Canada (for Shreddies!) if the weather is too bad. Food: 7:30 am 1/4 large cantaloupe, 104 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 19 Sept

Wouldn't have minded staying in bed this morning and skipping exercise, but I have a whole week off from the morning routine coming up so I managed to motivate. Yay, me. Tonight I hope to run a load or two of laundry, pack for the North Shore, and pre pack the smaller duffel for the Dells conference so I don't have to think too much when I get home from hiking. It should be sufficient to transfer the toiletry kit and hairbrushes if everything else is good to go. Heather is picking me up around 5:30 am next Thursday, so I don't want to leave anything for the morning unnecessarily. Haven't touched base this week with my Friday breakfast client, so we'll see if she shows up. If not, I'll run into Starbucks across the street and grab an oatmeal to go back to the office. I have Intake today from 12:15-3:00, so lunch will be early and likely short, but then I could leave earlier at the end of the day. Food: 6:45 am 1/4 large cantaloupe, 99 g blackberries, coffee 11:55 am Peach soy shake, Citrus Blend Greek blend yogurt, slice beer bread Exercise: 4:50-5:35 am Jessica Smith Stride & Strength YouTube 5:35-5:50 am Jessica Smith Power Walk Quickie YouTube

Wed 17 Sept

Yesterday was a somewhat traumatic day at work. At staffing, Amy announced that our newest coworker who just turned 36 was found in his yard at lunchtime by his wife, unconscious and unresponsive. A few hours later we heard that he had some kind of diabetic reaction and is okay but will likely be hospitalized for several days. This same man was in ICU a couple of weeks ago for about 3 days with a racing heartbeat that couldn't be controlled. You think maybe he'll quit smoking soon? Secondly, they are looking to do a minor rearrange in our section, making one person the designee for everyone in CCS, a State funding program. They would give up their regular caseload and assume all the CCS cases up to an eventual max of 15-20 cases. No one wants to do this and it was going to come down to Amy bringing in a bucket next week at staffing and putting in all our names to see who the unlucky winner would be. I had a weak moment in deciding that it didn't sound too awful and I wanted to not put all my coworkers through a week of tension, so I volunteered. Let's hope it wasn't a big mistake. I'm hoping it will force me to be more conscientious with my paperwork as I've been quite lax recently. Food: 6:55 am Steel cut oatmeal w/protein powder, flaxseed meal, 1/2 c blueberries, soy milk, 1/4 large cantaloupe, 100 g blackberries, coffee 10:30 am 1 Reese's miniature, 1 York miniature 12:30 pm Vanilla soy shake, Fit & Active Pumpkin Pie yogurt, slice beer bread 6:10 pm Chicken peanut stew, sm piece leftover Bambuezle naan, 8 oz skim milk 6:45 pm 20 g Indian corn Exercise: 4:50-5:45 am Leslie Sansone 4 Fast Miles YouTube 5:30-6:00 pm Neighborhood walk

Wed 17 Sept

This week is moving somewhat more quickly than last week, more of a normal pace. It feels right for it to be Wednesday today. Looking forward to not being in the office all week next week between the North Shore and the Dells conference. I've been annoyed (in thankfully brief intervals) with one of my more needy clients this week and I will be glad not to see her next week. Switched from The Firm to Jessica Smith partway as the DVD wasn't getting much aerobics. Did some weights, then some walking to get the step count up a bit. Food: 6:55 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, 1/4 large cantaloupe, 36 g raspberries, 77 g blackberries, coffee 12:15 pm Chocolate soy shake, caramel macchiato Greek blend yogurt, 66 g chocolate brioche Exercise: 4:55-5:30 am The Firm Complete Workout DVD 5:30-5:50 am Jessica Smith Interval Walk YouTube

Tues 16 Sept

Hoping for nice enough weather to hike Rib tonight. We're supposed to be rain-free for a couple of days, with maybe even some sunshine. That would be fine with me. Weather was good, but Dad had work to finish while the sun shone. I took a lone walk to/through Schmeeckle to enjoy the great day. Food: 6:40 am Honey bear pastry, 1/4 large cantaloupe, 99 g raspberries, coffee 10:00 am 1 Reese's miniature 11:45 am Blueberry soy shake, slice Country Hearth 100% whole wheat bread, .25 tbl butter, 1 oz cheddar cheese, med banana 12:30 pm Health cookie 4:45 pm 42 g chocolate brioche 7:10 pm Leftover chicken casserole, 1/2 c leftover homemade applesauce, 8 oz skim milk Exercise: 4:50-5:35 am DWTS DVD 5:30-7:00 pm Walk to/through Schmeeckle

Mon 15 Sept

A full week of work ahead, then a full week out of the office between North Shore hiking and a conference at the Dells with coworkers. I guess I can handle work. No calls at all on the pager this weekend; that was very nice. Glad to have the energy to get through the whole Jane Fonda workout today. Food: 7:00 am 1/2 large bear claw pastry, 1/4 large cantaloupe, 101 g raspberries, coffee 11:45 am Blueberry soy shake, Mission corn/whole wheat tortilla, 50 g oven roasted chicken breast, slice tomato, leaf kale, slice Jarlsberg Lite 12:30 pm 1 dark chocolate sea salt caramel 5:00 pm 20 g dried Montmorency cherries 7:00 pm 2 apple cider chicken smoked sausages, 2 L'Oven Fresh whole wheat hot dog buns, 2 tbl pickle relish, 1/2 c Bush's Grillin' Beans Exercise: 4:50-6:00 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video 5:45-6:45 pm Walk with Dad

Sun 14 Sept

Chilly morning. Was not really motivated to exercise, but glad I made it through. I felt like I needed to do my regular ballet routine to strengthen and stretch muscles left too long idle. And my reward is a chocolate croissant, so life is good again. Had early choir practice at 1 pm to allow for the Packers. Finished around 3 and decided we couldn't pass up another beautiful day, so we took a walk, figuring the Packers could get started without us. Apparently we didn't miss much as the score was 14-3 when we got back and the Jets scored their 3rd touchdown moments later. But now the Pack has scored 15 straight points so the game looks a little more interesting at halftime. Michael and Taylor are supposed to stop by in a bit, so hopefully they'll help us finish the veggie quiche. I threw a loaf of beer bread in to bake, and a 6-pack of Sierra Nevada stout we got from Hartmans to chill. We have some good chips on hand for munching as well. Good game, though it appears the Packers were waiting for me to watch before they could start playing. Glad to oblige. Unfortunately Michael, Taylor, and Bob all sat upstairs and visited while I cheered the Packers on alone, but hey, that's how it goes sometimes. I came up between pauses to fix food and say howdy. Food: 7:40 am Chocolate croissant, 1/4 large cantaloupe, 101 g raspberries, coffee 11:40 am Sm pc coffee cake, maple/brown sugar cupcake 12:20 pm Mission corn/whole wheat tortilla, 53 g oven roasted chicken breast, slice Jarlsberg Lite, large slice tomato, leaf kale 4:00 pm Way Better tortilla chips, 6 oz Woodchuck 5:30 pm Slice veggie quiche, slice beer bread, 4-5 pieces Indian corn Exercise: 5:50-6:40 am Ballet DVD 6:40-7:12 am Cardio Dance DVD 3:05-3:40 pm Walk with Dad to Schmeeckle

Sat 13 Sept

Going on the Walk for Hope this morning along the river for suicide prevention awareness. I forget how many years I have been doing this, but I would guess this is year 8 or 9. Gonna do a quick walk to the Farmer's Market and get pastries & cappuccino before we start. Good day. Beautiful autumn weather. Walked to grocery store to buy half-and-half to make quiche with some lovely hydroponic veggies that Michael gave us. We will have it with corn cooked on the grill. Made cupcakes for the Newman social tomorrow. Got all the laundry out on the clothesline. Good day. Oh, man, was that quiche amazing! It had summer squash, mini eggplants, leek, onion, garlic, green pepper, jalapeño, small red pepper, Italian cheese. Very veggie summery. And the corn was really excellent as well. Food: 7:35 am 1/4 cantaloupe, 102 g raspberries, coffee 8:30 am 1/2 large almond puff roll, cappuccino 10:30 am Banana, 2 sm 2.5" chunks of Erberts & Gerberts subs, single Nature Valley Oats & Honey granola bar 12:40 am Other 1/2 almond puff roll 6:15 pm 1/6 veggie quiche, large ear sweet corn, health cookie Exercise: 9:15-10:15 am Walk for Hope 3:45-4:30 pm Walk to Copps

Fri 12 Sept

Almost let myself get away with staying in bed this morning and skipping exercise, but had a positive change of heart at the last minute. Didn't feel like leaving everything for the end of the day, to be honest. My breakfast client cancelled, but I still have a couple of Kind bars on my desk drawer for such occasions. I think the almonds are starting to go over, though. Food: 6:40 am Nectarine, 102 g raspberries, coffee 8:15 am Kind Madagascar almond bar 11:50 am Vanilla soy shake, slice cranberry oat toast, 1 tbl fig spread, caramel macchiato Greek blend yogurt Exercise: 5:05-5:40 am Jessica Smith Stride & Strength YouTube

Thurs 11 Sept

Crisp, cool morning for camp. I must say it feels Septembry. Good morning for a bowl of hot oatmeal w/blueberries. Hopefully we'll have a good day at camp. Food: 6:45 am Steel cut oatmeal w/flaxseed meal, protein powder, 1/2 c blueberries, soy milk, nectarine, 99 g raspberries, coffee Exercise: 5:00-5:40 am Jessica Smith Belly, Buns, & Thighs Walk YouTube

Wed 10 Sept

Rainy day, supposed to continue pretty much throughout the day. Guess my after-work exercise will be indoors with Jessica Smith today. Morning workout was Kristi Yamaguchi which incorporates good weights but not as many steps as I'd like so I have a few to get in during the day today. Food: 6:50 am Morning bun, nectarine, 100 g raspberries, coffee 11:40 am Vanilla soy shake, Mission corn/whole wheat tortilla, 48 g Lunch Mate oven roasted chicken breast, 1 leaf kale, 2 heirloom cherry tomatoes 12:30 pm 1 dark chocolate sea salt caramel 3:00 pm 2 caramel Nips 6:30 pm Chicken casserole w/organic rigatoni & many veggies, 1/2 c homemade applesauce, 8 oz skim milk Exercise: 4:50-5:45 am Kristi Yamaguchi Workout DVD 6:55-7:55 pm Walk with Dad

Tues 9 Sept

Predicting rain for the next couple of days, then a high of 51 for Thursday when we have Lion's Camp. Oh, well. Had unpleasant dreams mid- to late last night so I wasn't feeling comfortably rested when I woke. Not tired, just slightly distressed. Better now. Went to Casey's and bought some apples and apple products for an anniversary present for Hartmans. Assembled a basket and decided to walk to their house for some exercise in the bargain. As we stood on their (very quiet) doorstep, Dad recalled seeing a Facebook post this morning of Hartmans on a plane bound for New York with Eagons. So we carried the basket of apples back home, by way of the Newman Center to pick up my music for this weekend. Food: 6:45 am Chocolate chunk danish, large nectarine, 100 g raspberries, coffee 11:40 am Blueberry soy shake, scone, 1/2 c 2% cottage cheese w/chives 12:30 pm 1 Riesen caramel 7:20 pm Ham/gruyere croissant, 1/3 c homemade applesauce, 8 oz skim milk Exercise 4:50-5:40 am DWTS DVD 6:00-7:00 pm Walk with Dad

Mon 8 Sept

Inexplicably tired this morning physically. Wasn't that it was too hard to get up, but got tired while exercising and cut the long tape short after upper body and aerobics. Probably related to being so tired yesterday afternoon. Don't feel sick which is a good thing. Actually remembered that I'm supposed to meet my client for breakfast today. Now hopefully she will also remember. She did. Food: 6:45 am Large nectarine, 101 g raspberries, coffee 8:15 am Pecan waffle, 1 tbl whipped butter, .5 tbl pancake syrup, coffee 11:40 am Toasted coconut Greek blend yogurt, cherry almond scone Exercise: 4:50-5:40 am Jane Fonda Complete Workout video

Sun 7 Sept

Didn't feel like the regular ballet DVD today so did Jessica Smith barre workout instead. Nice workout with a bit more cardio aspect. Might be worth alternating weeks. Gives some variety as I have been doing the other DVD for several years. Walked around Panacea after Mass, but nothing worth bidding on at the Silent Auction, and we have enough good bakery in the house from our trip to Madison yesterday so we just put our name in for basket drawings. Maybe Dad will win a new Kindle Fire to replace his lost Kindle/iPad. That would be nice. Sheets are on the line, load 2 in the washer. No word yet about choir this semester. Don't know why but I am so tired this afternoon. Took a nap which helped for a very short time, but feel like I could use another one. The hike at Mead perked me up very well. The weather was perfect, we saw two deer gallumphing through the swamp, several birds. Lovely. Food: 8:30 am Chocolate croissant, large nectarine, 101 g raspberries, coffee 11:45 am Panacea pulled pork sandwich, 1 tbl BBQ sauce, 1/4 c coleslaw, 1/2 c baked beans, 1/2 c potato salad, peanut butter cookie 2:30 pm 1/2 molasses cookie 7:05 pm Large caprese salad (134 g heirloom tomato, 64 g fresh mozz, 3 g basil leaves), 61 g brioche roll Exercise: 6:50-7:40 am Jessica Smith Barre YouTube 7:40-8:25 am Jessica Smith Sunset Walk YouTube 4:38-6:08 pm Hike at Mead Wildlife Reserve

Sat 6 Sept

Planning a quick nosh of fruit and coffee, then a quick walk to the Farmer's Market for a combination of a little exercise and hopefully fresh pastries and cappuccino. Always nice to get a loaf of cranberry oat bread for the week as well. Then we hope to head down to Madison by 10. Food: 7:40 am 1/4 cantaloupe, 102 g raspberries, coffee

Fri 5 Sept

Was a good birthday yesterday, except for the Packers losing. Guess they didn't get the memo that they were obliged to win for my birthday. Tonight we're going to the Pinewood for dinner, hopefully with Michael also. And I'm really looking forward to spending time with you in Madison tomorrow. I really hope your tooth stops giving you grief quickly. Tooth pain is really overwhelming. Food: 6:55 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, large nectarine, 102 g raspberries, coffee 11:35 am Vanilla soy shake, broasted chicken thigh, 102 g sm heirloom tomatoes, slice cinnamon swirl bread 12:30 pm 1 dark chocolate sea salt caramel 6:15 pm Brandy old fashioned, roll/butter, salad w/1 tbl honey mustard dressing, ravioli w/lobster sauce, 3 grilled shrimp, 2 large scallops, 1/2 pc chocolate cake Exercise: 4:50-5:25 am Jessica Smith Stride & Strength resistance band YouTube 5:25-5:55 am Jessica Smith Dance Party YouTube

Thurs 4 Sept

Happy Birthday to me! Should be a nice day to celebrate as our office is doing the summer "picnic" at lunch today, catering in chicken, ribs, and fixings. The coworkers are going out for margaritas after work, so I told Dad to go ahead and attend his CWACT board meeting and we will go out tomorrow instead. Packers better win tonight for my birthday! Wow, the picnic lunch was great! Too much food, but definitely got our $6 worth. Ample sized spare ribs, broad yes chicken, large baked potatoes w/sour cream, cheese, and green onions, corn, coleslaw, fruit salad, rolls, and cookies/bars. I'm saving the chicken piece for another time. Skipped the roll but sampled the rest and am quite full. We all decided that it's just margaritas and chips tonight. Food: 6:50 am 1 c Trader Joe's multigrain flaxseed cereal, 1/2 c light original soy milk, large nectarine, 104 g raspberries, coffee 11:45 am. 5 oz spare ribs, baked potato, 1 tbl sour cream, 1 tbl shredded cheese, .5 tbl green onions, 1/2 c coleslaw, 1/2 c corn, 1/2 c fruit salad, 2 1-inch square bars 3:15 pm 1 dark chocolate sea salt caramel 4:45 pm 2 12-oz margaritas, chips, salsa, queso fundido Exercise: 5:00-5:50 am Leslie Sansone Fast 4 mile walk YouTube