Tues 31 Dec

Last day of the decade. Hard to believe we're heading into the 2020s tomorrow. Been a lot of places and done a lot of things this decade. Hope the next one is peaceful, productive, and filled with good times and love and manageable difficulties. Hope we all come out of it together and healthy. Food: 7:45 am 2 butterhorns, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:30-10:00 am Treadmill 10:00-10:20 am Machine workout 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class

Mon 30 Dec

The snow has begun, but they're only predicting a little over 4 inches. We dodged a bullet on the weekend in that we didn't get the freezing rain predicted. Temps stayed in the low 40s (highs) so things didn't really freeze up, at least during the day. We'll see what this weather ends up like. Food: 7:40 am 2 butterhorns, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Sun 29 Dec

Looks like there was some freezing rain yesterday so we'll need to wear the grippers over our shoes to walk to church this morning. Packers play their last regular season game at noon, and if they beat Detroit, they will get a bye for the first round of playoffs and home field advantage throughout. Playoffs at Lambeau again - what fun! Food: 8:00 am 2 butterhorns, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 28 Dec

The new Word-A-Day calendars should arrive today, in time for use on New Years'. Feels really weird to have a weekend already with Christmas Eve/Day having fallen on Tues/Wed and our family celebration on Thurs. Yesterday felt very much like Monday, and now it's already Saturday. Next year is Leap Year so the Christmas holiday will jump to Friday and feel much more normally like a weekend rhythm. Food: 8:50 am 3 butterhorns, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:10 pm Steel cut oats, soy milk, 1 c fruit salad Exercise: 10:00-11:45 am Walk at Schmeeckle

Fri 27 Dec

Back to routine. Gym/laundry today, then weekend which will feel strange. Had a very nice Christmas celebration with the kids yesterday, and even the visit to Leone and Mick was pleasant. Surprised that I got all my steps in for each hour as well as the total. Food: 7:55 am 2 butterhorns, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 26 Dec

Today is the 13th anniversary of the last time I had a period. The kids are coming to celebrate Christmas today. We had a pleasant surprise last night when Michael and Taylor came over in the evening, having returned from Ironwood. They brought a stollen from the good bakery in Ironwood and stayed to share a couple of bottles of wine and fellowship. Food: 8:15 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Christmas Day 2019

Wow, Fitbit says I only got 15 min of deep sleep all night last night. I had frustrating dreams toward morning, but I still feel reasonably well-rested. Guess it couldn't have been too bad. Doesn't feel much like Christmas since the kids aren't coming to celebrate til tomorrow. We had the church service last night which was very nice with much of the old Newman gang. Christmas Eve brunch was great with the Hartmans, and John gave me the best Christmas present ever by restoring the "lost" photos from my camera disc. I'm looking forward to looking at all my NZ pics sometime today. We had traditional oyster stew for dinner. Food: 8:50 am Chocolate pumpkin danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:50 pm 2 scrambled eggs, 2 sm butter horns

Tues 24 Dec

Its Christmas Eve, and it still doesn't really feel like it. Just remembered this morning that I haven't done my butterhorns, so I'll have to do that today. Also need to make sure I have all the groceries I need to prepare Christmas dinner on Thursday. I've been lax. Food: 8:10 am Chocolate pecan snail, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 23 Dec

Wow, but Christmas is approaching headlong! We got the main cookies baked yesterday, though I'd still like to try a batch of afghans perhaps today. Need to wrap the presents, but that isn't as big a job as it used to be when we did way too many gifts. Tomorrow is brunch at the Hartmans. Food: 7:55 am Chocolate eclair, 102 g blackberries, coffee 11:00 am Several Christmas cookies 12:45 pm 2 slices Dave's 21 grain, butter, 1 egg, cinnamon sugar Exercise: 9:05-9:20 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Sun 22 Dec

First day of winter, so as Bob pointed out, the days will start getting longer. That was one of the more difficult adjustments coming home from NZ where the days were lengthening and they had flipped into daylight savings time. We are getting a temperature reprieve at the moment. Yesterday in Madison, it hit 50°. They have no snow down there, so I kind of hope we don't lose all of ours before Laura comes on Thursday so she can see it. Food: 8:35 am Chocolate eclair, 103 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:40-10:00 am Walk to church 11:15-11:35 am Walk home

Sat 21 Dec

David had eclairs today!!! And he had made a Buche de Noel in the French style for a customer to order but we were able to see it. It was a work of art! Enjoying a fruit danish with raspberries, blackberries, and kiwi as I write. David informed us that kiwis have genders, and that it takes only 1 male for 7 females. Food: 8:45 am Fruit danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 20 Dec

Got my "festive" Suicide Prevention Coalition meeting this morning, so no gym. Will come home and do laundry and try to motivate to trim the tree or something. Started to get a burst of energy yesterday afternoon, but it dissipated quickly. Tonight and tomorrow night, we sing Christmas carols with our choir before the ACT show. No rehearsal necessary, just sing. Food: 7:10 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 9:00 am Frosted sugar cookie 9:45 am Chocolate frosted donut

Thurs 19 Dec

My cold continues to abate somewhat. Didn't have to wake up to blow my nose in the night, and only coughed up a little gunk this morning. Kathy does not want to walk this morning as she is starting to come down with a cold, so I'll go to Body Flow later this morning and otherwise take care of myself as well. Food: 7:50 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee 2:05 pm Slice Dave's 21 grain toast, 1 tbl Jif

Wed 18 Dec

Having trouble with the mouse function again. Maybe I can get that figured out as my Christmas present. Even if it's just updating the software to run my old mouse. Back is a bit stiff; will have to break down and do Pilates soon. Had to cut the back track weight back down again today. Food: 7:50 am Cheese maple danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 17 Dec

Bob and I did the Bootstrap grocery pack-up last night together and it was fun. I go back this afternoon/evening for other aspects of the Holiday Basket project. It's a good thing to get involved with for the season. Food: 7:50 am Chocolate pumpkin danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 16 Dec

Didn't get much deep sleep last night at all. This cold shows no signs of abating. Sigh. Packers held on to victory by the skin of their teeth yesterday. We got the decorations down from the attic, bought Laura's gift and much of the stocking stuffers. And Bob got the fridge cleaned out on Saturday. Had good intentions on the way to the gym to stay after Body Pump and resume my machine workouts, but I was out of energy by that time. I did go back to using my regular weights during Pump, so didn't totally wuss out on getting back on track. Food: 8:00 am Cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:05 pm Bob's 8-grain cereal, 2 tbl powdered almond butter, 1/2 c blueberries, 1/4 c chopped walnuts, soy milk Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-1030 am Body Pump class

Sun 15 Dec

Wow, this Christmas season is starting to fly by without my close attention. I need to get cracking. Food: 8:30 am Mixed berry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 14 Dec

Woke up around 7:20 when Bob got up after lots of nose blowing in the wee hours (and lots more after my shower). Went to the Farmer's Market and loaded up on regular pastries from David. He gifted us with two cinnamon rolls that I had forgotten in the initial order. Michael and Taylor showed up while we were chatting with David. Got eggs from Robin but no carrots available. One of the vendors told me the carrot guy will be there next week. Food: 9:25 am Cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 13 Dec

Six years ago today my mom left this world. Miss you, Mom! Beginning to realize that I need to get my act together to get ready for Christmas. I haven't bought Laura's or Taylor's main gift yet, and I haven't begun to prepare for stuffing stockings. Need to make cookies, put up and trim the tree. Yikes! Email from Capital One this morning; someone compromised the David card and tried ordering merchandise on the Internet from BooHoo.com. Only took about 10-15 min on the phone to get it taken care of. They will cancel the card and send a new one. Food: 7:55 am Cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:05-9:20 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 12 Dec

Hopefully it will be a little warmer today, even though there is more snow in the forecast. Kathy and I are going out for a walk this morning after a long absence. My cold continues to progress, but the 12-hour sudafed is a godsend. Still up and down a lot in the night, but feeling a little better rested today. Got my 12,000 steps already on my walk with Kathy in the snow around Mead. Had to take smaller steps because of the ice hiding under the snow, but neither of us fell (even though we both had surprise slides). Decided not to go to the gym as I'm a little tired from the walk and I probably wouldn't get there in time for Body Flow anyway. I'll try to put up the Christmas tree later today, but for now, a little relaxation sounds great. Food: 7:50 am Cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:40 pm Dave's 21 grain bread, butter, 1.5 oz cheddar, herbal tea Exercise: 8:30-10:20 am Walk with Kathy around Mead

Wed 11 Dec

The golden Kiwi girl is no more. Got my hair put back to its normal color yesterday. Also woke up more easily at the normal time today, even though I really didn't sleep very well. I was up and down all night, using the toilet, adjusting medication, drinking water. Oddly, I don't feel overly tired today. I did keep the muscle soreness at bay with Ibuprofen so I should be able to go to Body Pump no sorer than I was on Monday. Made it through 15 min of treadmill and Body Pump. Still not feeling wholly normal, but better. Someone pointed out that NZ experienced a volcanic eruption shortly after we left, and Notre Dame burned a couple weeks after we left Paris. Disturbing trend. It was nice that Annie Glinski Leahy came running after me on the way into gym to say how glad she was to see I returned safely since she knew I was there around the time of the volcano and she had worried. Food: 7:45 am Caramel pecan roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:40 am Bob's 8-grain cereal, small Gala apple, 1/3 c chopped walnuts, 1/4 c soy milk Exercise: 9:10-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 10 Dec

Definitely have a cold now, needed some decongestant to sleep last night. Not too bad as yet, and hoping that the tea, water w/lemon, and plenty of rest will keep it from getting worse. Sad that David's Christmas goodies class was canceled due to wintry weather making conditions very slippery. Could be a long winter. Glad we missed the beginning. Food: 8:00 am Caramel pecan roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm 2 scrambled eggs, 1 golden kiwi, bavoise, fig cookie 4:00 pm 1.75 Scottish fingers 6:00 pm Macaroni & cheese, sliced beets Exercise: 9:15-9:25 am Walk to Jefferson 10:35-10:45 am Walk home

Mon 9 Dec

Choir concerts done, and thankfully the soreness from Friday's Body Pump has abated today. Between feeling the oncoming of a cold yesterday and being really sore, I felt awful by end of day and needed to go to bed early with scarcely any steps on the day. Of course it didn't help that I forgot to wear my Fitbit when walking to church so it wasn't quite as bad as it looked. A good night's rest has left me feeling much more normal again. Let's hope I don't have quite the soreness reaction from Body Pump this time. I'm reassuring myself that at least by next week, I'll be feeling more normal. Food 7:50 am Caramel pecan roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Sun 8 Dec

Nice evening with Michael and Taylor last night, sharing the wild sockeye salmon, baked sweet potatoes w/compound cinnamon/maple butter, and Taylor's garlic green beans. Since I wasn't here for Thanksgiving, I made a cranberry pudding pie for dessert and they were very pleased. One more choir concert this afternoon, then we're done for the season, though I think we're doing a Christmas caroling gig for the ACT Christmas show. Left my Fitbit on the charger when we walked to church so I now have only 489 steps at almost noon instead of about 5000. Oh well. I'm so stiff from Friday's Body Pump that getting up and sitting or kneeling down requires external support. Food: 8:35 am Caramel pecan roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:10-9:30 am Walk to church 11:20-11:35 am Walk home

Sat 7 Dec

First choir concert over and done with. This was probably the shortest concert we've ever given. We were on our way home by 8:15 from a 7:00 show. Larry cut the longest, most difficult piece as it wasn't very good at rehearsal Thursday (before I got there). Heading out to the Farmer's Market for pastries and then to Amherst for the pre-Christmas festivities in about half an hour. The concert today is in the afternoon so Anna, our accompanist, can get to St Bron's for Mass at 4:00 as she is the music minister there. Means we'll have Saturday evening free! Food: 7:15 am 101 g blackberries

Fri 6 Dec

Wow, it actually feels a little weird to be back home and finding my previously normal routines again. A month is a really long time to be away. I suspect it won't be long until everything feels completely usual again, but for now, it's a path of rediscovery. It's also weird to realize there's less than three weeks to Christmas, so all of the holiday stuff needs to get underway right away. New Zealand was amazing, wonderful, and everything I had hoped it would be. Many thanks to God for giving us a perfect vacation experience. Glad I had the self-discipline to keep up a journal every day so I can read through and stimulate all the memories of a month. Scenery, food, people - all were wonderful. Food: 8:00 am Morning bun, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:15 pm 2 fried eggs, 1 pc Dave's Killer toast w/butter & Bonne Maman apricot preserves, navel orange Exercise: 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Wed 6 Nov

The day has arrived!!!! We're going to New Zealand!!!! Had a nice visit from Michael and Taylor last night to wish us well and get any last-minute instructions. Had a decent sleep. We'll head out in about an hour to leave the car at the hotel in Chicago and begin our Kiwi Adventure!!!! Food: 6:50 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 5 Nov

Hard to believe we're leaving tomorrow already! I can start packing the last-minute things into my carry-on today and trying to make sure I haven't forgotten anything. It's a tad stressful, I don't mind admitting. Food: 7:40 am Cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm Oikos Triple Zero coffee, pumpkin bread 5:40 sm 2 drumsticks, 1/4 c roasted corn, 3/4 c homemade applesauce

Mon 4 Nov

Wow, are we getting close! These next two days, I will go to the gym and tutoring as usual, but the rest of my time will likely be spent going over last minute details. Forgot to wear my Fitbit to the gym today. All those treadmill steps not counted!! Food: 8:00 am Chocolate caramel danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:45 pm Concha 1:45 pm Chicken soup Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:40-11:20 am Machine/balance workout

Sun 3 Nov

We forgot to set our clocks back for the end of Daylight Savings Time, but since we went to church at 5 pm yesterday and have no commitments until choir this afternoon, it really didn't matter that we reset them this morning instead. Most of the clocks reset themselves, but the living room, wall clock in the dining room, and the two bedroom clocks needed manual attention. I was feeling guilty for sleeping til 7:30, and now I can feel virtuous for actually getting up at 6:30 today. Worked hard and got the itinerary fleshed out yesterday. Set up a sailing excursion on Lake Taupo to see Maori carvings, a cellar door winery tasting and looked at some other options we can decide at the time. Food: 7:50 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 2 Nov

First indoor farmer's market today, and David kept his promise to have his wares available. Emma was there to sell so we had a chance to visit with her. David made a pastry today that he had made when Emma was growing up, and that I had just seen as a technical challenge on GBBS - the kouign amann. He makes his with a jam filling, but it's utterly delicious. Had to do a search of the GBBS site to find out how to spell it. Food: 8:45 am Kouign amann, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 1 Nov

Had a successful Halloween with about 140 Trick-or-Treaters on a very chilly evening. Leftover chicken soup made a good dinner while tending the door. Skipping the gym today to walk with Kathy so I'll get all my steps with no problem. Food: 7:55 am Chocolate frosted Mexican donut, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:45 pm 2 scrambled eggs, pumpkin bread Exercise: 8:30-10:00 am Walk w/Kathy

Happy Halloween!

Busy day ahead. Won't be walking with Kathy because she needs to spend time with her brother on his birthday, but need to start some laundry: sheets in back bedroom, towels, puffy jackets. I have to work the flu clinic at the Annex from 2-4 this afternoon. Busy times. Food: 7:50 am Concha, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm 2 scrambled eggs, pumpkin bread Exercise: 9:40-10:20 am Machine/balance workout 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class

Wed 30 Oct

Taylor and her friend, Grace will spend a couple of nights here while we're gone, and Laura may also sleep here on her trip up to Medford at some point. House will feel loved. Food: 8:00 am Honey bear pastry, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:15 pm Pink concha w/apricot filling, Oikos Triple Zero coffee Exercise: 9:10-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 29 Oct

I think I will try to bake my pumpkin bread today and take it over to Leone's with her veggie straws and maybe a container of the chicken soup. I was going to wait til after Wednesday's funeral service, but I have flu clinic work on Thursday afternoon and that only leaves Friday for both baking and delivery with gym in the morning and Mass in the evening and laundry thrown in. Today's schedule is more forgiving. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm 2g Vanilla yogurt, Mexican concha w/custard center 3:00 pm Slice pumpkin bread Exercise: 4:10-5:20 pm Walk to little Schmeeckle (saw at least 7 deer!)

Mon 28 Oct

Got to meet David's daughter, Tracy, yesterday at Leone's. She is very lovely and showed me pictures of her 12-year-old daughter, Gabrielle. Leone indicated that she would prefer the Wed graveside service to be just herself, Mick, Brandon, and Tracy so we will honor her wishes and not attend. We gave them a sympathy card with $30 which seemed like a decent amount, and we visited with her for awhile yesterday afternoon. I will make pumpkin bread for her birthday along with the big bag of Veggie Straws and a card, and I'll take them over later this week. I think I'll shoot for Friday after the service when things may be dying down a bit. Food: 8:05 am Chocolate caramel danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:50 pm 3/4 c butternut squash bisque, Mexican scone, med banana Exercise: 9:10-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:35-11:10 am Machine/balance workout

Sun 27 Oct

Had a very nice day yesterday, starting with David's pastries from the Farmer's Market (the last outdoor market of the season). Drove down to Madison, and to my utter delight, found a fresh shipment of TJ's Pumpkin Spice coffee in the store. Had a lovely lunch with Bob at Brasserie V, moules et frites and a little pumpkin ale. Found out that Laura had a very successful meet in Mequon and was back in Madison so we could take her out for supper to celebrate. In the meantime, we had a good Costco run while she napped, and we ate together at a little hipster/dive bar called the Tip Top Club to avoid getting anywhere near downtown and Madison's Freakfest. Food: 8:00 am Caramel drizzled cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:55 am 2 egg omelette w/red onion, oyster mushrooms, orange pepper, and Unexpected Cheddar, 1/2 large Pan de Muertas Exercise: 9:40-10:00 am Walk to church 11:15-11:35 am Walk home

Sat 26 Oct

Weird: my computer gave the time as Sat 3:09 pm before it woke up to the actual time of Sat 7:56 am. Wonder where my computer thought it was? My baking class this morning (that I was really looking forward to) was cancelled, so we're going to drive down to Madison to do some Costco/Woodmans/etc. shopping instead. I'll be out of good berries and I didn't like the look of the offerings at Aldi, I need soy milk, I can check Woodman's liquor for Whole Hog pumpkin ale.

Fri 25 Oct

Friday again already! Only one more full week and half of another before we leave. It's been eventful. David passed yesterday after they made a decision to remove the ventilator. His son and daughter were with him, and Mick spent a couple of hours with him just before he passed. I also learned that Deb P-J put Rich into hospice care yesterday after his long battle with health. Sadness abounds. Food: 7:50 am 1 c Trader Joe's Maple Clusters, 1/2 c soy milk, 97 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm Macaroni & cheese, 1/2 c homemade applesauce 5:50 pm Sea bass filet, 3/4 c spinach noodles in sage brown butter, 1/2 delicata squash w/butter Exercise: 9:00-9:20 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 24 Oct

Finally I get my hair cut today! The first two extra weeks weren't too bad, but this last week I have been dying to get it cut again. Glad I endured this now and not at the end of my NZ vacation. Food: 7:50 am 1 c Trader Joe's Maple Clusters cereal, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:45 pm Steel cut oats, 1 small apple, 1/2 scoop Elevation vanilla protein powder, 1/2 c soy milk Exercise: 8:30-10:00 am Walk around Bukolt w/Kathy 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class 11:35-12:05 pm Machine/balance workout

Wed 23 Oct

Slept well last night. Made Bob a quirky fleece cover for his Kindle and he is polite enough to like it. Hopefully the rain is done now for the week, though it's still supposed to be chilly. Food: 7:55 am Palmier, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:20 pm 2 scrambled eggs, pumpkin donut, green tea, 10 red grapes Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 22 Oct

Weather cleared up yesterday for a bit in the afternoon so I was able to walk outside a couple of times. Supposed to rain again most of today. May not be able to walk to my dentist appointment. Food: 7:55 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:00 pm 2 slices French toast w/1 duck egg, skim milk, 2 pc Angelic 7-grain bread, butter 6:15 pm Leek and potato soup, mini naan w/roasted garlic hummus, 1 1/2 crab cakes

Mon 21 Oct

Rainy couple of days ahead, then slightly cooler again I think. Already feel like I can see a little more ab definition, so need to keep on the Pilates as well as watching the salt and snacks to get that scale back down again and headed in the correct direction. Food: 7:55 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:40 am Curry butternut bisque, pumpkin donut Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:35-11:05 am Machine/balance workout

Sun 20 Oct

Oh my, but the time is speeding by! But yesterday, we made some progress assessing our packing. We also had a wonderful visit with Tom Pease at Empty Bowls and a great time at Central Waters meeting other band parents and listening to Michael's band. It was a very lovely day. Food: 8:30 am Chocolate caramel pastry, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 19 Oct

Was able to pack my suitcase up yesterday with everything I should need to carry. Today I'll reopen it and maybe remove the belly pack and extra packing cube that I don't really need. The suitcase is fully packed and straining so I'd rather relieve it a little. Nice to be able to make adjustments. Had a really nice time at Empty Bowls chatting with Tom Pease. Food: 9:00 am Pumpkin danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:30 am Bowl tomato bisque, breadstick, 2 cookies Exercise: 8:05-8:40 am Walk to Farmer's Market

Fri 18 Oct

Going out for lunch with Heather today; should be fun. Weather permitting, I should be able to walk downtown as we're meeting at the gyro place. Felt very good yesterday about getting my vitamins and toiletries organized for the trip, printing my trip documents and getting a start on putting my carry-ons together. Food: 6:55 am Trader Joe's Maple Clusters Cereal, soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:00 pm "Junior" gyro 2:25 pm Belts grasshopper ice cream sandwich Exercise: 12:05-12:40 pm Walk downtown (and around while waiting) 1:55-2:25 pm Walk home and to Belt's

Thurs 17 Oct

The time to vacation is simply disappearing! I'm starting to feel a little panicky about finishing all my preparations. I need to keep calm and just check things off the list. I suspect there's less to do than I realize. Kathy called and suggested a Schmeeckle walk today so she picked me up and we parked on Maria Dr and walked some of the back loop plus another lake loop, but it must have still been shorter than what Bob and I usually do as I'm only at about 7500 steps. Food: 8:00 am 1 c TJ's Maple Pecan Clusters, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:55 am 2 fried eggs, pumpkin brioche, pear Exercise: 8:35-9:50 am Walk w/Kathy at Schmeeckle 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class

Wed 16 Oct

Had a really nice evening with Michael and Taylor, eating dinner and chatting. Taylor made homemade hummus and they brought naan to complement the chicken biryani with salad and applesauce. Michael helped me season the vinegar and oil dressing with a pinch of kosher salt, some oregano, and some roasted garlic powder. Excellent combination. Food: 8:05 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:15 pm 2 scrambled eggs, apple crisp Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Machine workout 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 15 Oct

Nice hike at Rib last night, good night's sleep. Feeling good today. Which is good because I need to clean and cook to prepare for Michael and Taylor for dinner tonight. Making chicken biryani which is easy, probably adding a nice salad with the good dressing from mushroom/sage oil and lemon vinegar, and maybe homemade applesauce, and I'd like to bake an apple crisp or pie. Food: 7:55 am Pumpkin danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 14 Oct

Time is flying by quickly before the trip. Need to spend some time organizing vitamins, toiletries, and looking more closely at clothes. Also organizing the backpack, both as a carry-on and for hiking. Still considering springing for a pedicure before I go to get my feet in good shape, but probably not til closer to the trip. Just didn't have the oomph to do the machine workout after Body Pump and treadmill today. Best to listen to the body when it speaks to you. Food: 7:45 am Chocolate caramel pinwheel, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 8:55-9:20 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 4:15-5:45 pm Hiking top half of Rib

Sun 13 Oct

Feels a bit like winter today with temps down around freezing for the first time of the year. The walk last night was chilly but not freezing. We opted to just do 8 miles as we seem to have started later than most folks and we'd had a full day visiting Laura in Madison. Lovely to spend some time with her. Lunched at La Brioche, did Costco, TJ's on our own while she finished gym. TJ's had already sold out completely of pumpkin spice coffee for the season so we won't have any this year. Not willing to pay $15/container on Amazon. Didn't notice that I was scheduled to cantor til about 8:30 am during breakfast this morning. Fortunately, it was all familiar music. Food: 8:05 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:40 am Potato leek soup, 1 slice Italian bread w/butter Exercise: 9:10-9:30 am Walk to church 11:10-11:30 am Walk home

Sat 12 Oct

Brrr, it's frosty out there this morning! Car thermometer said 35° on the way home from the Farmer's Market. We drove, partially because it was so cold, but mostly because we plan to do the (frosty) Moon Walk for 12 miles tonight so steps shouldn't be a problem today. We get to go see Laura today! Food: 8:45 am Cherry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 11 Oct

Rainy day today, then temps will drop into the cold zone for awhile. I'll be doing laundry indoors today, I suspect. Last couple of days the teeth and jaw have not been hurting. Let's hope that lasts. Food: 8:00 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm 2 fried eggs, slice Italian bread w/butter, 1 tbl Bonne Maman apricot preserves 6:05 pm 2 lamb chops, 1/2 c sautéed parsnips, 3/4 c roasted purple potatoes Exercise: 9:00-9:20 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:45-11:15 am Machine workout

Thurs 10 Oct

Had quite a bit of restlessness in the middle of the night last night, confirmed by Fitbit. Still feel reasonably rested, so not as bad as it could be. Will walk w/Kathy today and will take my library books to be dropped off along with me. I'm trying not to take out any new ones before New Zealand so I can focus on reading guidebooks when I finish what I have on hand. Annoyed with self. Went on a 1 1/2 hour walk w/Kathy and left my Fitbit on the charger at home. That walk is usually good for around 10,000 steps that will go uncounted today. Aaaargh! And worse, I don't have the motivation now to go the gym for Body Flow and machine workout. Food: 8:05 am Maple long john, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 8:30-10:00 am Walk w/Kathy 6:10-6:55 pm Pilates mat

Wed 9 Oct

Yet another beautiful day. Hoping to hike at Mead this evening to make use of this lovely weather. Yesterday we did Rib, but I got a little light-headed early into the top section so we turned around earlier than I would have liked. It was a good decision. We then went to Olive Garden for dinner, a place neither of us could remember the last time we had eaten there. Had a very nice dinner and took advantage of a special that allowed you to bring home a separate entree packed to go for only $5 that will be the basis of our dinner tonight. Food: 7:45 am Blueberry turnover, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:50 am 1 slice L'Oven Fresh 100% whole wheat bread, butter, 43 g cheddar, med banana Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 8 Oct

In the middle of a streak of three lovely weather days. Today is my first Learn for Life day of this school year so I'll meet my new second graders today. I'm in the same classroom at the same time as last year so it's nice to have a degree of familiarity. Met my new reading kids for the year and they are all quite nice: Ella, Noel, and Matthew. Food: 7:50 am Apple turnover w/caramel glaze, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:15-9:25 am Walk to Jefferson 10:35-10:45 am Walk home

Mon 7 Oct

Looks to be a lovely day today with sunshine and slightly warmer temps. Packers held on for the win yesterday and I got to watch much of it on the TV. Had my support call on the new iPhone yesterday and learned some cool features of the new camera. Got almost a month left to prepare for New Zealand in earnest now. Food: 7:45 am Caramel pecan roll, 46 g blackberries, coffee 11:50 am Oikos Triple Zero coffee Greek, pretzel breadstick, med apple w/cinnamon sugar Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump 10:35-11:00 am Machine workouts

Fri 4 Oct

Heading up to AppleFest today. Checked the website yesterday and learned that it starts today (when there's supposed to be nice weather), so we'll get our "festing" in before Saturday's rainy forecast. Means no gym with postponed machine workout, but c'est la vie! Food: 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 3 Oct

Into the last full month before New Zealand and I know it will disappear quickly. Need to start reviewing plans and making sure everything is in place. Exciting and just a little scary. Still wondering what it will be like to be away for a full month. Guess we'll know soon. Food: 7:50 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:35 pm Indian Madras Lentils in tomato sauce, L'Oven Fresh pretzel breadstick 3:00 pm 1 stroop waffel, 1 Krispie treat 6:00 pm 6 oz tri-tip roast, 3/4 c carrots, 1/2 c purple potatoes, 1 c homemade applesauce, 6 oz hard cider Exercise: 8:30-9:55 am Walk w/Kathy 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class 1:40-2:00 pm Walk to St Mike's 3:05-3:20 pm Walk home

Wed 2 Oct

Slept much better last night with a cool breeze coming through the window. Kept all the covers on and enjoyed their warmth. It will not get very warm for the next several days, but after that bout of humidity, it's okay. Doesn't sound like it will be too frigid for AppleFest though it may be chilly. Food: 7:50 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:05 pm 2 fried eggs, pear, cream-filled coffee cake 6:45 pm Crab leek risotto Exercise: 9:15-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 1 Oct

Rain started this morning before I got out of bed and is forecast to continue til I get up again tomorrow morning. Today is my last unscheduled Tuesday and I plan to go to the gym this morning to do the machine workout I didn't do yesterday and catch Body Flow. I'll probably also try to do some treadmill time since the only alternative for steps is the living room today. Food: 7:55 am Bear claw pastry, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:25 pm Cafe latte Quark, cream-filled coffee cake, pear Exercise: 9:35-10:05 am Machine workout 10:10-10:25 am Treadmill 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class

Mon 30 Sept

Likely to be warmer but rainy today, in fact rainy for most of the remainder of the week. Guess most of my steps will have to happen either at the gym or lapping the living room (as yesterday). Sure was nice to hike in the sunshine on Saturday. Turning out to be a brainless day. Forgot to pack my little purse for the gym with phone, wallet, and car key, yet somehow the car started and drove. When I got to the gym and realized this, I was afraid to leave the car to work out until I figured out where my key was. I checked the pocket of my raincoat and my shoe bag with no success, so I drove home before shutting off the car since I didn't even have my phone to call Bob if I couldn't get back into the car. When I pulled into the driveway, I saw the key sitting on top of the trash bag. I assume it had been in the pocket of the raincoat and fell out when I took it off and tossed it on the car seat before leaving the house the first time, but I didn't see it at the gym because I didn't look there. Turned around and went directly back so I arrived in time for Body Pump but not to do any treadmill time before. Planned to do the weight machines after, but didn't think of it til I was already driving home and didn't want to go back again. Hoping the rest of the day looks up. At least it isn't raining. Food: 7:50 am Maple danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:05 pm 1 slice Angelic 7-grain toast w/butter, 1 tbl Bonne Maman apricot preserves, red pear, 2 hard boiled eggs 1:30 pm 4 cookies 3:15 pm Belt's ice cream sandwich 5:40 pm 2 fried chicken drumsticks, 1 c cajun mac n cheese, 3/4 c homemade applesauce Exercise: 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 11:40-12:10 pm Walk around UWSP library

Sun 29 Sept

I have been experiencing computer stress yesterday and again a little this morning. I "think" we may have solved the password keychain problem, but it isn't a sure thing yet, and this morning I'm having trouble with one of the "I am not a robot" software to register for the Moon Walk. I was able to circumvent the "robot" issue by signing up on Firefox, though it doesn't have pre-fill features so it's more annoying. At least it's done, and I made the window for the $5 fee. Food: 7:00 am Pumpkin danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:50 pm 2 slices Angelic 7-grain bread, butter, 60 g cheddar, red pear Exercise: 10:05-10:10 am Walk to Leone's 11:05-11:10 am Walk home

Sat 28 Sept

Hard Rock Hiking Challenge this morning. We're registered to go the 10-mile leg. Should make up for not being able to hike on Wed at the North Shore. I'll take my new phone along and hopefully if I need to use the camera, I can figure it out. Food: 6:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 8:10-12:00 pm Hard Rocks Hiking Challenge 10 mi

Fri 27 Sept

Good trip to North Shore. Beautiful hiking at Cascade River on Tuesday. Wednesday was a bit cloudy, then rainy, so we didn't really get any hiking in though we were able to walk from Nelson's to town in the morning and again for dinner. We poked around the Grand Marais shops and drove out to the Wild Country maple syrup place where we met the new owners (of the last four years) and got a tour of the operation. They had two beautiful mountain dogs who were friendly but not overly assertive. Thursday again dawned beautiful so we hiked Oberg on the way out, then again stopped at Tettagouche to hike the short Baptism River walk for hourly steps. Good food up north as usual; bagel sandwich from Coho Cafe, delicious dinner at the Crooked Spoon, great fish tacos and pie at Rustic Inn on the way home. Food: 7:50 am World's Best Donut lemon cream cheese swirl, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:05 pm Steel cut oats, soy milk, 1/2 scoop Elevation protein powder, 1 tbl golden flaxseed meal, 1/8 c TJs dried blueberries Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Mon 23 Sept

The day of good color (traditionally) at the North Shore marks the day we head up to leaf-peep. Hopefully we'll have a safe and lovely trip to truly appreciate God's beauty on Earth. Planning to stop at Potato Falls en route per recommendation from Bill Pyke to see a beautiful waterfall. Food: 6:40 am Pumpkin danish, 100 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 22 Sept

Raining this morning so likely not able to walk to church unless it abates soon. Better that it gets it out of the system before we head up north. Food: 7:50 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 21 Sept

Seems a bit more muggy this morning. Finally took the last traces of polish off my toenails as they were looking pretty sad. I wore my Keen sandals to the meeting yesterday morning so they wouldn't show and then took a long walk to Bukolt and the sandals irritated the tops of the big toes. I drew blood this morning scrubbing off polish from the nail. Food: 7:50 am Cherry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:10 pm 84 g cheese curds, pear Exercise: 7:15-7:40 am Walk to Farmer's Market 9:10-9:30 am Walk to church 11:50-12:05 pm Walk home

Fri 20 Sept

Been awhile since I got up early on a weekday. I forgot the Coalition meeting last month, convinced it wasn't til the following week. I've had an early Saturday or two, but not a weekday. It's also dark now if you get up at 5:45 again, plus it's foggy today. Meeting is at the Annex, so I can walk in a comfortable time. Food: 6:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:50 am Two Good vanilla greek yogurt, apple fritter bread, small apple Exercise: 7:45-8:00 am Walk to Annex 9:05-10:45 am Complete Bukolt loop

Thurs 19 Sept

Looks like a grey and stormy day, though the storms sound to be north and south of us at present. There was rain in the night, but it's not raining now. We'll see if Kathy wants to chance a walk. Food: 7:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:00 pm Hamburger, wheat bun, 83 g roma tomato 3:00 pm 1 stroopwaffel 6:05 pm 4 oz pork roast, 2/3 c red potatoes, 1 c mixed veg, 5 oz sauvignon blanc Exercise: 10:00-10:25 am Machine wokout 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class

Wed 18 Sept

Feels just that tad cooler today towards comfort; hopefully it will last. Funny how an increase in temperature and humidity after a week or so of cooler temps seems so much warmer than it would have during the summer. If it hadn't been for the humidity, I think it would have been most welcome to have a little bit warmer temps and some sunshine. As it is, the sunshine is particularly welcome. Food: 7:50 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:05 pm Oikos Zero coffee Greek, apple, slice apple fritter bread Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 17 Sept

I see some sunshine today, most welcome, but it appears it will be somewhat warm and quite humid this week which is not as welcome. I plan to go to the gym today to do the machine work I couldn't bring myself to do yesterday, and then stay for Body Flow. Food: 7:45 am Bear claw, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:35 am Small slice banana bread 12:55 pm 2/3 c 2% cottage cheese, concha, large peach 6:05 pm Cheese fries, apple, 1/2 cucumber Exercise: 10:00-10:25 am Machine workout 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class

Mon 16 Sept

Foggy morning today, but temps should be in the 70s all week. Preliminary peeks into the North Shore weather shows highs in the low 50s next week which should be fine for hiking. Bob checked a color report indicating that color is around half now, so that should bode well for next week. Nothing special on the agenda this week. Wussed out on the exercise machines today after Body Pump. There's a lot of humidity again and I think it sort of sapped my energy. Food: 7:45 am Chocolate caramel pinwheel, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:25 pm 1/2 c 2% cottage cheese w/chives, large peach, croissant Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Sun 15 Sept

Beautiful day for the Walk for Hope yesterday, with a great turnout of enthusiastic participants. Should have made a lot of money for the cause. Bob and I then went to La Crosse for apples. We went up on Grandad for the view, then found some short nearby hiking in the Hixon forest. It was warm and we were both in cotton t-shirts and jeans and didn't have our hiking boots, so we couldn't handle much of a trail but we got a little outdoors time and had an adequate supper at Fayze's before heading home. Food: 8:05 am Pumpkin danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:00 pm 2 fried eggs, zucchini frosted muffin, slice apple fritter bread, brownie, apple Exercise: 4:50-5:40 pm Walk around back of Schmeeckle

Sat 14 Sept

Walk for Hope today. They're predicting mostly sunny, high of 70°, so I'm hopeful for a nice walk. We'll go get our pastries by car around 7:15 and then go to help set up. Food: 6:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 13 Sept

Been quite a while since we've had a Friday the 13th, at least that I've noted. My new monitor arrived yesterday and had no little lines, waves, or patterns obliterating the display this morning. Hopefully those days are over for a long time. It's good to have an updated computer and monitor that will hopefully last me another ten years now. Food: 8:00 am 1 c maple clusters cereal, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 12 Sept

It's not raining this morning so I imagine Kathy and I will be able to walk today. I should do weight machines after Body Flow today also but no other commitments to consider. Food: 7:45 am 1 c Maple Cluster cereal, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm 2 scrambled eggs, 1/2 chocolate chip scone, large peach Exercise: 8:30-10:00 am Walk w/Kathy 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class 11:35-12:00 pm Workout machines

Wed 11 Sept

Rain and thunder boomers this morning, expected to continue through tomorrow morning. Likely won't walk with Kathy this week, but we'll see. Treadmill this morning at the gym as I'm still recovering from increased weight on leg press. Food: 7:40 am Chocolate croissant, 102 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 10 Sept

It's been my experience that once a month gets into double digits, the remainder of the month flies even faster. Time til New Zealand is flying crazy fast. We have some other things in between such as 4 days at the North Shore and a weekend at Apple Fest which will make it go even faster. Open day today, likely mostly rainy. Food: 7:45 am Honey bear pastry, 107 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 9 Sept

A particularly tasty pastry from David's repertoire this morning: a pinwheel with nuts and powdered sugar and possibly some chocolate tucked in. Yum! Monday has rolled round yet again. The weeks are flying by. Glad we got a trial pack done for New Zealand yesterday as it will be here before we know it. Can't really think of anything I need to purchase before the trip unless it be a Trtl neck pillow for the flight. I'm thinking I'll cut back on the vitamins I take along, perhaps just a multi and maybe a calcium for the morning, and leave home the magnesium at night. Food: 7:55 am Walnut pinwheel, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:00 pm 2 hard boiled eggs, large peach, 1/2 chocolate chip scone 4:15 pm Stroopwaffel 5:30 pm Large sloppy joe on cheddar roll, sliced cucumber Exercise: 9:13-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:35-10:55 am Workout machines

Sun 8 Sept

Anxious for the new monitor to see if it stops resetting the display size every time it reawakens. Mildly annoying. Nice trip to Madison yesterday but we got home close to 10 and I was quite tired. Was able to do my Duolingo at Laura's while Bob helped her hang some pictures and a mirror so I didn't have to do it when I got home. We got our full Costco run in before meeting with her as she had lifting responsibilities at her gym in prep for her meet in seven weeks. That will likely be the case again when we visit her in early October. She is also on a pre-meet eating regimen so she doesn't eat with us. We didn't eat fancy this trip at all: a couple of El Pastor tacos eaten at Laura's for lunch and Culver's on the way out late. Food: 8:40 am Maple danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:40 am 66 g Kirkland oven roasted turkey breast, cheese roll, lettuce 6:20 pm Kwik Trip banana cake Exercise: 9:40-10:00 am Walk to church 11:10-11:30 am Walk home 4:10-6:10 pm Full Rib hike

Sat 7 Sept

Looks like a decent day. Going down to Madison to help Laura move her stuff back up from the basement to the main floor now that her floors are refinished. Hope to get in a Costco/Woodmans run and maybe pick up some pastries from El Poblano,

Fri 6 Sept

Grey and windy day today, rain not really predicted but I don't know if I trust it enough to hang laundry out today. We decided that we will look for a new monitor for my computer, probably at Costco, since this one requires me to shut down manually and restart every day or sometimes more often. Food: 7:50 am 1 c maple cluster cereal, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 5 Sept

Spoke too soon on the lack of monitor lines with the new computer; now it likes to take over the entire screen with patterned lines that don't seem to resolve on their own so I have to turn the computer off and on again to get my desktop screen. Hopefully we'll figure out a way around it. No walk with Kathy today as they are in South Dakota, so I'm going to the gym before Body Flow to work on the machines. No more Zumba so I'll come home right after Body Flow. I have a Walk for Hope meeting this afternoon so I can drop off the raffle prizes. Food: 7:50 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:05 pm 2 fried eggs, large peach, Mexican pastry 6:00 pm 2 grilled drumsticks, 1 ear sweet corn, 6 oz coconut porter Exercise: 10:00-10:20 am Workout on machines 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class 4:10-4:55 pm Walk to library

Wed 4 Sept

Hippo birdie two me! Bob said the new computer didn't have lines on the monitor this morning, so we'll see if that holds true as the weather gets colder. Seemed like my Fitbit did the morning sync faster than usual on the phone as well, but I believe I also updated the phone software finally as well. There will still be little things to learn with the new computer update but it will be good to be running the current system and know that it won't just poop out for being outdated. Food: 8:00 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 3 Sept

Rain this morning, needed by the vegetation which is finally starting to look a little dry. It was amazing to see lush green lawns on Sept 1, both here and in Mpls, but the dryness is creeping in. We walked to Minnehaha Falls with Kurt and Barb and the falls were rushing there as if it were springtime. They've had quite a lot of rain this summer. Lunch with Bill today for my birthday. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate caramel danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 2 Sept

Scale is up a couple of pounds today from over-indulging at the fair, but hopefully it's a short-term gain that can soon be rectified. I did eat most of a package of mini-donuts, several Sweet Martha's cookies, nitro ice cream, etc. so it's deserved. We still have lots of cookies and a big bag of kettle corn brought home, but kettle corn is an okay afternoon snack in moderation, and a couple of cookies a day would not be too bad either. Looking very much forward to the day off today. Food: 8:20 am Maple danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 31 Aug

I slept so much better last night - it was wonderful! I feel like myself again today after a day of fogginess yesterday. Looking forward to seeing Kurt and Barb and doing the Fair tomorrow. Sounds like nice weather.

Fri 30 Aug

Cooler morning again after a warm afternoon yesterday. There was a little rain in the midday yesterday, and when it finished, it was warm enough for shorts and short sleeves again. Food: 7:35 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 29 Aug

Cooler temperatures definitely make it seem like fall is on the way. Occasional branches of trees are showing some color and sweaters felt good yesterday. Forecast is for mostly sunny and low 70s for the fair which is darn near ideal. Looking forward to it. Poop! Just learned that no more Zumba Gold with Angel after today. She will be teaching at the Jensen Center in Amherst on Mon/Thurs mornings but that's too far for me to travel. We will miss her. Food: 7:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 8:30-10:00 am Walk w/Kathy around Bukolt 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class 11:40-11:55 am Cable row and leg press 12:00-12:45 pm Zumba class

Wed 28 Aug

Mice in the house! I heard something fall into the fireplace last night while I was reading, and shortly after, I saw a mouse run out from under the doors and presumably into the kitchen. Bob was in the bathroom, so as soon as he came back upstairs I told him about it and just before he came into the room, there was a shuffling sound in the fireplace and another one ran out toward the kitchen. While I was telling him and he was in the living room, I saw at least two more mice in the fireplace stick their heads or bodies out, then go back in again. He couldn't see them from the angle he was standing. He set out traps and got one in the evening and another in the middle of the night, but I suspect there are at least two, possibly more, still at large. Food: 7:50 am Honey bear pastry, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:25 am 2 slices small asparagus mushroom pizza, Mexican pastry Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:20 am Body Pump class

Tues 27 Aug

Feeling more rested after taking it sort of easy yesterday. Sun is shining today again. Life is good. Food: 7:45 am Apricot drizzled danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm Half frosted chocolate chip scone, Oikos Zero coffee Greek, 10 slices cucumber Exercise: 4:05-5:45 pm Hiking Rib

Mon 26 Aug

A grey and on-and-off rainy day today, but we haven't had too many and the rain is needed so it's not too depressing. Vowing to do Pilates again this evening. I'm still sort of all-over sore from increasing the scope of my exercising last week, but I know it's good for me. Just makes me tired and in wish of a long slug time. Food: 7:45 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:50 am Oikos Zero coffee Greek, chocolate frosted scone Exercise: 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Sun 25 Aug

Had a really lovely Saturday: walked to the Farmer's Market for pastries, met Zahns who begged the return of their Paris book so we got out the bikes and took an 8-9 mile ride to their house to return it, then drove down to Madison after lunch for a leisurely Costco/Woodman's/TJ's, etc. trip and topped it off with a wonderful dinner at Lombardino's with grilled octopus, goat cheese ravioli, and wild mushroom/asparagus pizza with sangria. Food: 8:15 am Cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:10-9:30 am Walk to church 11:15-11:45 am Walk home

Sat 24 Aug

Looks like a lovely sunny day, cooler again. I found myself thinking of chrysanthemums and squash. Must signal that summer is coming to an end soon. So hungry from working hard at the gym this week. Food: 9:10 am Caramel chocolate pinwheel, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 8:05-9:00 am Walk to Farmer's Market 10:15-11"35 am Bike to Zahn's to return book

Fri 23 Aug

Cool morning. Got almost 27,000 steps yesterday. Did an abbreviated hike of Rib in the evening and had supper at Red Robin because I really was too tired to cook. Had one of those non-stop days with no rest breaks between commitments so was exhausted. Food: 7:55 am 1 c Millville Maple Cluster Crunch, 1/2 c soy milk, 100 g blackberries, coffee 12:35 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 1 tbl Jif, i tbl homemade peach jam, sm banana, 1/2 c skim milk, sugar 2:00 pm 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk Exercise: 9:00-9:20 am Cable row, cable lat, leg press machines 9:30-10:30 am Body pump class

Thurs 22 Aug

Grey day today, highs forecast in the upper 60s. We'll see. Planning to hike this evening as my quads will hopefully be recovered from the leg press machine yesterday. Needed two doses of ibuprofen last night to calm them. Bob and I also plan to do another Pilates mat tomorrow when he hopes to feel sufficiently recovered. Food: 7:50 am Aldi's maple cereal, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 21 Aug

A little sleepy this morning, hopefully it will pass by the time I meet with the personal trainer at 9:30. Hope I can get some real use out of that session in planning ways to increase weight for training and increase my heart rate. Food: 7:55 am Honey Bear pastry, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:30 am 2 scrambled eggs, 1/4 c sautéed mushrooms, slice Omega 3 bread, 1 tbl Bonne Maman fig preserves Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Personal trainer

Tues 20 Aug

I love having a totally free day on the calendar every once in a while. Hopefully I'll motivate to do something useful around the house this morning as well as getting in a nice long walk before possible rain later in the day. Managed to read an entire book between about 6 pm and bedtime yesterday to further dent the stack from the library. Food: 7:;55 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:55 pm 1/2 c 2% cottage cheese w/chives, 45 g TJs cinnamon grahams, 84 g fresh tomato, 4 oz tart cherry juice Exercise: 9:50-11:20 am Walk around Bukolt

Mon 19 Aug

Wow, August is slipping away quickly! Gotta start getting prepared for the New Zealand trip - it will be upon us before we realize. Less than two weeks to the Minnesota State Fair already! Food: 7:50 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:40-10:50 am Rowing machine 11:00-11:45 am Zumba class 3:40-4:10 pm Walk to library

Sun 18 Aug

Looks rainy for at least part of the day today. Had a really good sleep last night, though Fitbit didn't seem to think it was unusually good. Feel well rested, so that's good enough for me. Cantor at 10, no other real plans. Food: 8:00 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:40 am Potato leek soup, slice Italian bread w/butter 5:45 pm Lamb shank, purple fingerlings, 1/2 c carrots, 4 oz sangiovese Exercise: 9:10-9:30 am Walk to church 11:05-11:25 am Walk home 3:25-4:10 pm Pilates mat 4:45-5:35 pm Back of Schmeeckle walk

Sat 17 Aug

Looks like a sunny day for Michael's performance in Waupaca this afternoon. It was cooler last night and I didn't miss having the fan going in the window. The potato leek soup tasted yummy. Must be getting cooler. Food: 9:00 am Chocolate caramel pinwheel, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:40 pm Chobani Less Sugar vanilla/cinnamon, 1/2 lg peach Exercise: 8:10-8:55 am Walk to Farmer's Market

Fri 16 Aug

It's raining this morning. Maybe it will stop later so I can hang laundry outside, but thankfully I have a dryer if it doesn't. Better it gets it out of the system today and not tomorrow when Michael's band plays in Riverside Park in Waupaca. Food: 7:55 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:10 pm Costco rotisserie chicken salad, almond kringle, 1 c 1% chocolate milk Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 15 Aug

Didn't sleep too well last night. Took a broken half of a magnesium tablet that stuck in my throat and moved very slowly through the esophagus so that I could feel its progress all the way. This was not restful. Today I have the free fitness consult at 212. They will probably be mad at me because I did not honor their rules of no alcohol for 24 hours before and no caffeine for 8 hours before. I had a glass of rose with dinner and my regular cup of coffee this morning. I don't expect they do blood work and I don't expect my regular routine will have an effect on my fitness. The bigger problem will be poor sleep. Food: 7:55 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:05 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl homemade strawberry jam, 2/3 c arroz con leche Exercise: 11:35-11:45 am Rowing machine 11:45-11:50 am Dumbbell strength 12:00-12:45 pm Zumba class 1:40-2:00 pm Walk to St Mike's 2:50-3:10 pm Walk home

Wed 14 Aug

Seems a bit cooler this morning; whether or not it will last is still in question. Need to remember to go to church at 6:30 this evening for the holy day. Food: 7:45 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 13 Aug

Today I get my mammogram, the last one insurance will have to pay for. We talked to an insurance man at the Farmer's Market last weekend about Medicare and supplement/Advantage plans. I learned my Medicare will be effective on the day of my scheduled physical next year as long as I apply in advance (which I fully intend to). I shouldn't have to pay for this year's mammogram either since it is one of the few things my insurance covers free and clear. Food: 7:55 am Plum almond pinwheel, 104 g blackberries, coffee 1:20 pm Oikos Zero vanilla Greek, almond kringle 3:00 pm Belt's ice cream sandwich 5:55 pm 5 oz pork roast, 1 c carrots/potatoes Exercise 9:30-9:50 am Ellis St loop 12:15-12:35 pm Walk to mammogram 12:50-1:05 pm Walk home

Mon 12 Aug

Had a nice hike at Mead yesterday afternoon, albeit very buggy. Lots of frogs hopping across our path, some pretty white shore birds, a yellow bittern (we believe). The rookery was full of cormorants. Topped off our hike with a drive to the Wheel House for Sunday prime rib sandwiches which were delicious as remembered. I was sufficiently hungry that I finished the whole sandwich easily. Food: 7:45 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:20 pm Oikos Zero coffee Greek, almond kringle, large peach, 30 g Field Day crackers Exercise: 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:40-10:49 am Rowing machine 11:00-11:45 am Zumba class

Sun 11 Aug

Had a nice trip to Grafton yesterday with a lovely hike at the Lion's Den park. Did lunch at the Stilt House in Cedarburg and shopped at the Grafton Costco. Got a nice new pair of Eddie Bauer black capris on clearance. Food: 8:05 am Maple cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 10 Aug

Eventful night last night - we had a bat in the room. Bob was able to chase it down, eventually whapping it with his suitcase in the overhang to the staircase and stunning it enough to pick it up and shove it into a plastic bag. He then took it outside and whapped it unto death before throwing it in the garbage. A little too much adrenalin after midnight. Today we man the Farmer's Market table from 9-10 for Walk for Hope registrations. Then we're heading down to Grafton to check out the Lion's Den trail (and Costco). Probably have lunch in Cedarburg first. Food: 8:05 am 101 g blackberries

Fri 9 Aug

Beautiful weather for hiking Rib last night, and continuing into today. Sunny, pleasant, cool but not chilly. Still battling my energy a bit, but will try to insist that I go to the gym as usual today. Should be able to hang all my laundry outside easily today. Food: 7:45 am Concha, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:55 pm 1/2 c 1% cottage cheese w/chives, large peach, Mexican pastry Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30 10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 8 Aug

Seems to be a bit cooler today, but maybe it's wishful thinking. Hoping to hike this evening as forecast is for low 70s. Should stay in the 70s for the next week if we're lucky. Only thing on the schedule this weekend is an hour shift from 9-10 at the Farmer's Market manning the Walk for Hope table. Maybe we'll get out and hike somewhere then as well. I was so nice and relaxed after Body Flow today that I skipped Zumba and came home for a short nap. Food: 7:50 am Long john Mexican pastry, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 52 g Jarlsberg, 1 tbl Bonne Maman fig preserves Exercise: 8:30-9:20 pm Walk w/Kathy 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class

Wed 7 Aug

Felt good about getting a little dent in the cleaning done yesterday so I could feel better about walking/exercising and reading. I will try to do that again when it fits my schedule. Expecting rain this afternoon/evening and then possibly cooler weather for the following week or so. Food: 7:45 am Honey bear pastry, 100 g blackberries, coffee 12:15 pm Oikos Triple Zero coffee, large peach, Mexican pastry Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 6 Aug

Had some rain and thunder yesterday afternoon/evening, and clouds are on order today. Still feels pretty humid. Slept pretty well last night so I'm happy. Only "must" on the agenda today is returning and picking up library books. Maybe I'll try to do something useful today. Food: 7:40 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:50 pm 2 hard boiled duck eggs, Mexican pastry

Mon 5 Aug

Looks like a nice day again today, sunshine and blue skies. Hoping the humidity isn't too bad. I slept so well last night, making up for the awful previous night. Didn't even get up to pee til 5:30 am. I feel like myself again. Used the new goat's milk shampoo bar we bought at the Farmer's Market on Saturday and the first impression is very favorable. Food: 7:40 am Chocolate pecan pinwheel, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:15 pm 1/2 c 1% cottage cheese w/chives, large peach, small tomato, chocolate dipped croissant Exercise: 9:15-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:35-10:45 am Rowing machine 11:00-11:45 am Zumba class

Sun 4 Aug

Not a good night for sleeping for me. Knees and hips hurt wherever I turned, so I kept having to move about every 5 min to get comfortable again. Fitbit only gave me credit for "sleeping" from 10:38-3:00 am even though I laid down about 9:30 and didn't get up til after 5:30. Better luck tonight. Food: 6:30 am Almond danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:35 am 1 c brown rice, Del Monte Mexican vegetable blend, small banana Exercise: 7:10-7:30 am Walk to church 8:10-8:30 am Walk home

Sat 3 Aug

Looks to be a nice weekend, slightly warmer but not oppressive. May drive down to Madison today to deliver Laura's cherries even though she won't be home. She will leave a key in her mailbox and we'll put them in her fridge. More humid today! Sweating from walk to Farmer's Market, even early in the morning. Food: 9:15 am Maple cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 8:10-9:00 am Walk to Farmer's Market

Fri 2 Aug

Another week flown by. Another beautiful morning. I'm finding that sometimes when I make it to gym Mon, Wed, and Thurs, my motivation to get there on Fri diminishes. I'll try anyway. Food: 7:50 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:50 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 44 g Jarlsberg Exercise: 8:55-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 1 Aug

Going to walk with Kathy this morning for the first time in quite a while. Will be nice to catch up. Should bake the rhubarb crisp and pit cherries this afternoon. Food: 8:00 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 31 Jul

Nice cool day, good night's sleep. Hiked all the way to the top at Rib last night, but didn't bother with the tower. Not quite as tired yesterday as the day before, but still not at full energy. Food: 7:40 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:10 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl Bonne Maman Wild Blueberry preserves Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 30 Jul

Happy 101st birthday, Mom! You are remembered. Basically good news at my physical yesterday. Blood sugar and cholesterol are still higher than they should be, but not yet requiring corrective action. Losing 20 pounds would likely help both. Food: 8:00 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:30 pm 2 hard boiled eggs, Thomas English muffin w/butter & Bonne Maman Wild Blueberry preserves, extra small banana 3:15 pm 2 svgs almond cookies 7:20 pm Chicken thigh, 1/2 c Grillin Beans, 1/2 c potato salad Exercise: 2:30-3:10 pm Walk to library 4:45-6:05 pm Hiking Rib

Mon 29 Jul

Had a very nice weekend on Washington Island. Were able to pick some cherries on the return, but only as many as we could get in about 15 minutes since we had dinner reservations at CHOP at 5 and it took significantly longer to get off the island than we had planned. We sat in line for the ferry for well over an hour. We had a great fish boil, a nice place to stay, a very pleasant ferry ride and hike at Rock Island. A good weekend altogether. Food: 7:25 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 26 Jul

Today is our day to go to Washington Island. It was raining lightly here this morning and there may be more rain and possible thunderstorms on the island, but we'll make the best of it. I'll still do the gym this morning, but we'll likely leave shortly after I get home. Food: 7:40 am Concha, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 25 Jul

Walked at the back of Schmeeckle last night and saw lots of deer. They had cleared away any fallen trees that might have obstructed the walkways. Going to do laundry today since we are leaving for Washington Island right after the gym tomorrow. Nice and sunny so I can hang things outside. Food: 7:45 am Brioche caramel chocolate bun, 101 g blackberries, coffee 3:10 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 76 g Jarlsberg, lg peach Exercise: 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class 11:40-11:47 am Rowing machine 12:00-12:45 pm Sh'Bam/Zumba class

Wed 24 Jul

Another sunny day, still less hot than last week. Looking forward to Washington Island this weekend, especially the lavender fields. Laura said a friend of hers was there last weekend and it is already in full bloom. I won a water bottle at the gym today because I was about the only person in Body Pump who wore an animal print shirt (my pink flamingos). Food: 7:50 am Gibassier, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 5:00-5:45 pm Walk w/Bob at Schmeeckle

Tues 23 Jul

Good to be back home after an unexpected extra day in Madison. We did help Laura to get her old countertop removed and her new butcher block purchased, cut to size and installed and the breakfast bar constructed. We found a vertical pantry cabinet and my contribution was to paint the cabinet doors for her. We also helped her to move most of the big furniture and many boxes from the rental to her new home and set up her bed on its frame in her new bedroom. She had been sleeping in the mattress on the floor in her rental because the box spring wouldn't fit up the stairs to the bedroom, and she really didn't much care for it so it felt good to be back on the bed as it should be. Topped off our Madison visit with a really good Restaurant Week lunch at Osteria before heading home. Food: 7:45 am Brioche roll w/chocolate and caramel, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:05 pm 1 c Costco rotisserie chicken salad, large peach 6:05 pm 4 oz grilled salmon, 1/2 c bulgur, 1/4 sautéed zucchini, 1/2 c cherry tomatoes

Sat 20 Jul

Drove to the Farmer's Market because of on-again, off-again rain. Had to park farther back on Main St as they are setting up for Discover Downtown, which required us to pass the library and note that they were having their book sale today. Stopped on the way back and filled a grocery bag for $2. Joan Honl was pushing me to buy multiple bags of books. Food: 9:00 am Cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 19 Jul

Supposed to be the hottest day today - above 90 pretty much statewide. But then a welcome break next week. Tomorrow may be quite hot in Madison as well with potential thunderstorms. Hope I can find ways to make myself useful in Laura's projects. Food: 7:25 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:30-11:15 am Schmeeckle like loop

Thurs 18 Jul

Warm and sticky, even with a little rain last night. These next two days should be the worst of it, though the weekend will be hot too (and possibly even hotter in Madison). Next week is forecast to be in the 70s all week, and we are all ready for it. Having had the opportunity to get all my "hot weather" clothes out and give them a wear, I can put them away for the regular summer wear any time. Food: 7:50 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:15 pm Slice Loven Fresh wheat bread, 55 g Jarlsberg, lg peach Exercise: 10:10-10:20 am Treadmill 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class 11:40-11:47 am Rowing machine 12:00-12:45 pm Zumb class

Wed 17 Jul

Had a nice walk yesterday evening at the back part of Schmeeckle. We drove to avoid the boring city approach so we'd have more time and energy to explore the back areas. Saw a cool young buck sticking his head up out of the swamp weeds, several other deer including a mom with three very young fawns. I actually was the first to spot a turtle on a log, we saw a snake disappear into a bush, a squished toad and other things I can't immediately recall. I pulled a biting black fly off my neck this morning, though I don't know when I picked it up. Food: 7:50 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:20 pm Slice Loven Fresh whole wheat bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl homemade strawberry jam, peach Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 16 Jul

Might be my imagination, but the humidity doesn't seem as oppressive this morning. Can only hope it lasts into the day. Food: 7:40 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:00 pm 2 hard boiled eggs, snap peas, 30 g Field Day crackers 4:00 pm Sleeve Bourbon biscuits 6:25 pm Leftover Wheel House pizza Exercise: 9:45-11:25 am Walk around Schmeeckle Lake 5:10-6:20 pm Walk around back of Schmeeckle

Mon 15 Jul

Hot and sweaty today, with more of the same forecast for the week. Oh, boy. No special things on the calendar this week except for a Coalition meeting on Friday. Will need to concentrate on staying cool and getting my exercise and eating properly for the heat. Food: 7:55 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:00 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 58 g Jarlsberg, 22 g carrots 3:30 pm Kwik Trip molasses cookie 4:30 pm 1/2 c Quaker Oat Squares 5:30 pm Chicken pasta salad w/veggies Exercise: 9:15-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:35-10:42 am Rowing machine 10:45-10:55 am Treadmill 11:00-11:45 am Zumba class 5:05-5:25 pm Ellis St loop w/Bob

Sun 14 Jul

Had a lovely spontaneous trip to Green Bay for Fri night/Saturday. Did a too-rushed wine tasting and glass at Captains Walk just before they closed, then dinner and overnight at St Brendan's. Delicious omelette and their tasty scones for breakfast, a tour around the Green Bay farmer's market, Costco and a very nice hike at High Cliffs State Park. We each got a bottle of kombucha w/CBD from the market and both had a bad reaction to it - lightheadedness and mild nausea. Bob's issue migrated into mild diarrhea. And we only drank about half of the bottles. Stopped at Wheel House on the return trip for pizza before an early evening that included a start on a jigsaw puzzle. Food: 8:15 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:10 pm 1 1/2 light blueberry walnut waffle w/butter & syrup 3:00 pm 2 c kettle corn 4:00 pm Macadamia nut cookie 5:20 pm Leftover pecan crusted walleye, roasted potatoes, summer veg Exercise: 9:40-10:00 am Walk to church 11:10-11:30 am Walk home

Fri 12 Jul

44 years ago I married Steve; still glad that I moved on to happier circumstances. 34 years with Bob and the family we made together is much more satisfying. Food: 7:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:50 am Skyr blueberry yogurt, 101 g blueberries, 2 TJs cinnamon grahams Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 11 Jul

Fitbit wouldn't light up this morning so I had to come put it on the charger. All I had to do was put it on for a second and it started working normally again, and in fact, it now will sometimes light up when I turn my wrist to look at it like the old one did. It also synced with the phone more quickly this morning, but the Fitbit system is busy and won't try the firmware update yet. Didn't feel great at the gym today, especially when I did a backwards inversion over the stability ball for a minute or so. Made me dizzy and a little nauseous. Took awhile to dissipate. Food: 7:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:10 pm Slice Loven Fresh whole wheat bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl homemade strawberry jam, 113 g strawberries Exercise: 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class 11:35-11:41 am Rowing machine 12:00-12:45 pm Zumba class

Wed 10 Jul

I'm feeling the humidity more this morning, hope that will moderate soon. It's better sitting with the fan on at the computer. My bathroom just seemed unusually warm this morning. Food: 7:55 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:15 pm 2 hard boiled eggs, 1/4 cantaloupe Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 9 Jul

Looks like another lovely day, if a bit warm. James stopped by yesterday afternoon instead of breakfast this morning since he had a free spot in his schedule. It was nice to visit with him again. Nothing much changes in the intervening years. Bob had a Fitbit crisis yesterday evening, in that his old one went crazy much like mine had done. Necessitated an emergency trip to Target for a replacement. Fortunately they were even on sale. He is getting adjusted to the new model. Food: 7:45 am Apricot cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:55 am 1/2 c 1% cottage cheese w/chives, 1 c pea pods 2:00 pm Belt's ice cream sandwich 2:30 pm 5 pc ice licorice 3:30 pm 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk 7:20 pm 2 cold chicken drumsticks, 1/2 c potato salad, green salad w/tomato & cucumber Exercise: 9:15-10:50 am Walk around Bukolt w/library stops 4:00-4:15 pm Walk to haircut 6:05-6:15 pm Walk home

Mon 8 Jul

Met Hartmans after church yesterday evening and walked to Point After for pub food and conversation. Very pleasant. Scale up this morning. Not so pleasant. Not sure what I've been doing differently, so I guess I just need to be vigilant on portions and types of food. Food: 7:50 am Chocolate caramel pinwheel, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:45 pm 1/2 c 1% cottage cheese w/chives, 139 g strawberries, rhubarb lavender crisp 3:30 pm 2 c Clancy's kettle corn 5:40 pm 9 marinated shrimp on the barbie, green salad w/small tomato & 3 slices cucumber, grilled fingerlings w/peppers & onions, 8 oz cider 8:35 pm 1/2 fresh strawberry flurry Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 9:40-9:46 am Rowing machine 11:00-11:45 am Zumba class 6:30-8:35 pm Walk around West Side green circle & Belt's

Sun 7 Jul

Visited Laura yesterday and Bob helped her to fix her iffy bathroom light fixture and her noisy kitchen fan. We'll return in a couple of weeks to help with other things and maybe move some furniture over from the rental to the basement. She plans to find a contractor to refinish the gorgeous wood floors she uncovered in removing the old carpeting. She will put her things down in the carpeted basement until that can be completed. Food: 8:15 am Cherry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:45 pm 1/2 c 1% cottage cheese w/chives, 153 g strawberries, rhubarb lavender crisp Exercise: 9:30-11:20 am Walk around Bukolt

Sat 6 Jul

A rain shower this morning disrupted plans to walk to the Farmer's Market so I'm starting the day with less steps than hoped. It had considerably lessened and I would have walked anyway but Bob chose to drive. Food: 8:45 am Mixed berry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 5 Jul

Getting somewhat used to hot weather again, even though it came on so quickly while we were still wishing for spring and green trees. June just disappeared because the spring came so late. Got in a good walk yesterday early, then just small ones were needed to fill out the day. Gym this morning, but just treadmill/Pump so I'll still need more steps. I do need to get to the library, but not sure if the weather will allow me to walk. Food: 7:50 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:35 pm !/2 c 1% cottage cheese w/chives, rhubarb lavender crisp Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Independence Day

No real plans for today. Invited Michael and Taylor for a cookout, but he thinks they have plans. He is unsure, so we need to hang around in case they can come. Maybe I'll make a rhubarb crisp. If the rain isn't coming til later, I should get in a nice morning walk, and I'll try to convince Bob to come along. That would get us some steps in with outdoors walking and minimize lapping the living room later. Nice Schmeeckle walk with Bob. Got caught in the rain around where we entered Lake Joanis and most of the way home it rained moderately so I'm a little wet but my clothes are the kind that should dry quickly so I don't think I'll change. My hair is quite wet on the surface as well, but not to be a bother. Food: 8:05 am Slice cinnamon braid loaf, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:20 pm 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 1/4 med cantaloupe, 12 oz La Croix Cran-Raspberry 4:30 pm Aperol spritz 6:00 pm 2 grilled chicken drumsticks, 1/2 c Grillin Beans, Aperol spritz Exercise: 8:45-10:35 am Walk around Schmeeckle

Wed 3 Jul

Looks like a break from the rainy weather today; hopefully bodes a hike at Rib this evening. Then a holiday tomorrow and a visit to Laura on Saturday. Good times ahead. Food: 7:50 am Slice cinnamon braid loaf, 101 g blackberries, 1/4 c Greek nonfat yogurt, 1 tbl oat granola, coffee 11:40 am Slice Omega 3 bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl Bonne Maman Four Fruits, sm peach Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 2 Jul

Booked a weekend on Washington Island in Door Co for the end of July. Maybe we'll luck out and still find cherries on the trees since this was such a late spring, but the lady at the B&B thought we should hit the lavender bloom just right. We will also go over to Rock Island for a day trip to the park there. Food: 7:45 am "Mini" cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, 1/3 c Greek nonfat yogurt, 1 tbl granola, coffee 1:45 pm 2 hard-boiled eggs, English muffin w/butter & Bonne Maman Four Fruits, small peach 3:00 pm 4 butter waffle cookies 5:40 pm 5 oz roast leg of lamb, 1/3 c Madras Lentils, green salad w/sliced strawberry, 5 oz sauvignon blanc Exercise: 10:45-11:40 am Body Flow class

Mon 1 Jul

Scattered thunderstorms started yesterday and may continue on and off all week. There's a little bit of sunshine out there, and the temperatures have dropped a bit so it's less muggy-feeling. I just hope it doesn't stay gray all week. Food: 7:50 am Raspberry danish, 101 g blackberries, 1/3 c nonfat Greek yogurt, 1 tbl granola, coffee 1:55 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl Bonne Maman Four Fruits, sm banana Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:40-10:45 am Rowing machine 11:00-11:50 am Zumba class

Sun 30 Jun

Had a very nice time visiting Michael and Taylor at the Ironwood house. We stayed at the Rodeway Inn which proved to be everything you could expect for a lower-priced chain hotel. Breakfast was very adequate, rooms were clean, beds were reasonably comfortable, we had a fridge and microwave so we could keep our leftovers safe. Temperatures were quite warm, even up north. Got in a couple of short walks, one solo and one with Taylor, while the menfolk were working on installing new outlets for Michael's growing operation. Did a little shopping in downtown Ironwood, which is considerably larger than I had realized. Got some of my chalk licorice and some fig Bonne Maman. Good trip. Food: 8:05 am Blueberry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 28 Jun

Rain this morning, so I probably won't get to hang out the rest of the laundry today. My knee was sore when I got up, probably from the dampness in the air. Actually contemplating skipping the gym this morning; I've already gone 3 days this week and I'm a bit sore and tired. We'll see. I'd have to do something to get my steps at home since it's not likely to be a great day for walking. Food: 7:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:15 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 2 oz Columbus chicken breast, 2 lg lettuce leaves, 158 g strawberries, 1 pc light string cheese Exercise: 9:20-9:40 am Part of kickboxing video

Thurs 27 Jun

Another lovely day, lots of sunshine. Doing a short walk with Kathy this morning, then off to the gym for Body Flow/Zumba. Need to pack for the weekend, but will likely do so tomorrow after the second laundry of the week. Food: 7:55 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 1/3 c Greek nonfat yogurt, 101 g blackberries, 1/2 svg granola, coffee 1:40 pm Oui blueberry yogurt, cinnamon scone, peach 3:30 pm My Mochi chocolate 5:50 pm 8 oz Seattle cider Exercise: 8:30-9:45 am Walk w/Kathy (with rest) 10:30-11:30 am Body Flow class 11:40-11:45 am Rowing machine 12:00-12:45 pm Zumba class

Wed 26 Jun

Another sunny warm day. Ran out of energy part way up the Rib hike yesterday so had to turn around earlier than planned. Could be a reaction to getting back into the gym routine on Monday. Was ravenously hungry when we got back and the brats had gone bad so Bob had to go out to Rocky's to get pizza as I couldn't function to cook anything else. Food: 7:50 am Pecan roll, 101 g blackberries, 1/3 c Greek nonfat yogurt, 1/2 svg granola, coffee 12:25 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl Bonne Maman Four Fruits, 160 g strawberries, Lipton diet iced tea 5:45 pm 1 c Simply Nature whole wheat spaghetti, 1/3 c tomato onion garlic sauce, poached duck egg, 1 tbl grated parmesan, mixed greens w/sliced strawberry Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 25 Wed

Looks like a lovely, sunny day today. Temperatures are supposed to get into the 80s this week. Planning to do laundry from vacation today and finish the sheets/household laundry on Friday before Minocqua. Food: 7:50 am Caramel roll, 1/3 c Friendly nonfat Greek yogurt, 101 g blackberries, 1/2 svg granola, coffee 12:30 pm Slice Omega 3 bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl Bonne Maman Four Fruits, peach 2:00 pm 2 butter waffle cookies 3:30 pm 2 butter waffle cookies 7:05 pm Rocky's pizza Exercise: 4:45-6:00 pm Hiking at Rib

Mon 24 Jun

Back home and finding my routine again. Did add to my morning breakfast routine - 1/3 c plain Greek yogurt and a tablespoon or two of granola to add some protein to my usual pastry-and-blackberries breakfast. Food: 7:50 am Caramel roll, 101 g blackberries, 1/3 c plain Greek nonfat yogurt, 1/2 svg granola, coffee 12:25 pm 2 hard boiled eggs, plum, chocolate knot 3:30 pm 1 c kettle corn 5:35 pm 2 slices leftover pizza, green salad Exercise: 9:10-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:45-10:50 am Rowing machine 11:00-11:45 am Zumba class 1:10-1:55 pm Walk to library and back

Sun 23 Jun

Had a wonderful week up at the North Shore with weather so perfect we couldn't have asked for better. Got in lots of great hiking, trying out several new trails. Fed the mosquitos generously in spite of protection. Good food, good times. Food: 6:25 am Cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 7:10-7:30 am Walk to church 9:10-9:30 am Walk home

Sun 16 Jun

It's Fathers Day and we're heading up to the North Shore for a week to hike and enjoy the north country. Attended a concert by Tom Yang and his family at UWSP yesterday that was very enjoyable. I was a bad girl and had us go to Wheel House after church for pizza and beer. Food: 7:25 am Apricot danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 15 Jun

A damp and muggy day, some rain earlier and maybe more later. Were able to walk to the Farmer's Market without rain, but it was steamy. Just got a couple of pastries each, one for today and one for tomorrow when we leave for the North Shore. Rose and Jay will keep us in delicious breakfast up there. Were disappointed that David didn't make his cheese rolls this week as we would have taken any leftovers up north to make sandwiches for hiking. Food: 8:50 am Walnut pecan pinwheel, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:00 pm 2 scrambled eggs, plum, 6 TJs oatmeal mimi-cookies Exercise: 8:00-8:45 am Walk to Farmer's Market 1:35-1:50 pm Walk to Suzuki recital 3:25-3:45 pm Walk home

Fri 14 Jun

A rainy Flag Day. Doesn't look like I'll be hanging my laundry outside today. Enjoyed the Thursday classes at the gym, and will try to make them a habit. I need the balance/stretching of Body Flow and I love the Zumba class. Food: 7:50 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:00 pm Steel cut oats, 1 tbl golden flaxseed, 2/3 svg PB Fit Chocolate Plus, 1/4 c TJs dried wild blueberries, 1/3 c soy milk, plum Exercise: 9:05-9:20 am Elliptical 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 13 Jun

No walk with Kathy today as she had to get another injection for her back. Going to try Body Flow/Zumba at the gym today, so have to adjust to a new time routine. First class starts at 10:30. Food: 7:55 am Cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:30 pm Slice L'Oven Fresh whole wheat bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl Bonne Maman peach preserves, plum, Oikos Triple Zero vanilla Greek yogurt, 6 TJ's small oatmeal cookies 5:35 pm 5 oz pinot grigio Exercise: 10:30-11:25 am Body Flow class 11:35-11:50 am Treadmill 12:00-12:45 pm Zumba class 3:15-4:05 pm Walk to library

Wed 12 Jun

Rainy day today, on and off through the night and yesterday evening. Gym and Bootstrap today, and maybe I'll go across to St Paul's to help organize choir music this evening. Food: 7:50 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:05 pm 2/3 c 2% cottage cheese w/chives, plum, 1 Nature Valley Oats & Honey granola bar Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Barre class 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 11 Jun

A rain/wind storm blew up unexpectedly while we were hiking at Rib yesterday and a tree actually fell near the path where we were walking. Scared the bejoobies out of me. Baked the cake mix from Bootstrap yesterday and realized that it was actually Dutch, not German. Went through all the instructions on Google Translate to be sure I didn't miss anything important. Food: 7:55 am Cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:30 am Cheese roll, 2.15 oz rotisserie chicken, spinach, plum 2:30 pm 2 c kettle corn 4:00 pm 2 sm hollow chocolate eggs 5:40 pm 2 grilled chicken drumsticks, 4 spears grilled asparagus, 2/3 c potato salad Exercise: 9:20-11:20 am Walk to Schmeeckle around lake

Mon 10 Jun

Another pretty day with sunshine and slightly cooler temps that feel good. Had a very nice drive down to Madison for Costco/TJ's and dinner at Cimaroli's. Didn't get to see Laura, but we gave her next to no advance notice so it's not surprising she had friend things going on. Was able to find the TJ's beauty products I saw in an internet article that had interest me, so I'm anxious to give them a try. If they're good, $8 is quite reasonable for a good serum and a good moisturizer. Starting to get excited for our spring North Shore trip next week. It's been a while since we've been up there, and particularly for the spring hiking week. Food: 7:45 am Gibassier, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:45 pm 3.2 oz rotisserie chicken breast, cheese roll, fresh spinach, plum 3:30 pm 2 c kettle corn 7:30 pm Enchiladas, mixed greens, 5 oz pinot grigio Exercise: 9:10-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 10:40-10:55 am Treadmill 11:00-11:50 am Zumba class 5:15-6:40 pm Hiking at Rib

Sun 9 Jun

In spite of bug dope, I did my share to nourish the multitudinous mosquitos of the Ice Age Trail. The back of my right arm appears to have been a particular delicacy. Enjoyed watching the last of the Lord of the Rings trilogy last night. I find that story fulfilling. Food: 7:55 am Berry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 8 Jun

Looks like a lovely sunny day for the Ice Age Trail hike this morning. We will try to leave early enough to hopefully catch David at the square to get the week's pastries before driving up to the trail. Nothing else on the agenda for today. Food: 6:55 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 9:05 am cheese bacon biscuit 12:15 pm 2 small bars, chocolate chip pumpkin muffin, banana 1:40 pm Cheese roll, 4 slices rotisserie deli chicken, spinach Exercise: 9:15-12:15 pm Hiking Ice Age Trail - Plover River section

Fri 7 Jun

Another sunny warm day today. This evening we need to go to the funeral home for Art Zag; we can't go to the funeral tomorrow as we will be doing the Ice Age hike. Michael is feeling better today, got his appetite back and ate well yesterday evening. Spent the day with him yesterday providing some TLC and getting him to the doctor. Food: 7:40 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 99 g blackberries, coffee 12:05 pm Slice L'Oven Fresh whole wheat bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl Bonne Maman peach preserves, med banana Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 6 Jun

Ny Michael is ill and I will go sit with him ASAP and take him to the doctor this afternoon. Please, God, make him well. Food: 8:10 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 5 Jun

Rain in the night last night so things got watered. Lunch at the library with the reading tutor program today. Food: 7:40 am Brioche chocolate bun, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11;45 am Turkey wrap sandwich, 1/2 c pasta salad, 1/2 c potato salad, pickle spear, bar, Krispie treat Exercise: 9:)5-9:25 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 4 Jun

15 more months to Medicare, not that I'm counting or anything. It will be nice to not have such a chunk of my pension going to premiums and to actually feel like I could go to the doctor if I feel the need. So ridiculous that I'm paying so much money for health insurance that I'm reluctant to use. Let's not even go there. Food: 7:45 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 3 Jun

Very nice day yesterday - beautiful weather, perfect day for hiking in American Legion Forest at Fallison Lake, had a pleasant pizza at Minocqua Pizza Co on the way home. Nice way to spend the actual day of our 35th wedding anniversary. Food: 6:45 am Cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:25 pm Cheese roll, 4 slices rotisserie deli chicken, spinach, 143 g strawberries Exercise: 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class 11:00-11:50 am Zumba class

Sun 2 Jun

35th wedding anniversary today! Had a lovely celebration dinner at Muse last night (as they are closed on Sundays). They gave us each a free dessert and they give everyone a little cocktail and amuse at the beginning of the meal so it was quite the night. I had gnocchi with duck confit and Bob had Maryland crab risotto. Everything was delicious and the service was excellent. Food: 7:55 am Cheese maple danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:35 am Cheese roll, 4 slices rotisserie chicken deli meat, spinach leaves Exercise: 9:40-10:00 am Walk to church 11:10-11:30 am Walk home

Sat 1 Jun

Rain this morning, quite heavy when we went to the Farmer's Market. David was there today in person so we chatted a bit (under his tent). In checking Underground hourly forecast, there are thunderstorms predicted for the hours of 12, 1, and 2 when we would be walking so it's likely we'll take a pass this year. Temps are cool, around 56 now and not expected to rise considerably, and walking tired and wet in the cool weather is not likely to assist with recovery from my cold. Not to mention that walking in the rain is not really pleasant. Well, we took a long morning walk around Schmeeckle lake to atone for skipping out on Walk WI. It only rained a teeny bit and was otherwise just cloudy for us. I felt better about skipping out, except then it never rained again the rest of the day so we would have been okay. Food: 8:35 am Mixed berry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee 1:00 pm 4 slices deli-sliced chicken breast, cheese bialy, spinach Exercise: 10:00-11:50 am Schmeeckle walk w/Bob 4:05-4:55 pm Pilates mat

Fri 31 May

Better sleep last night, less gunk in sinuses and throat. Now that I don't have to worry about walking the full marathon tomorrow, I can relax and recover a bit easier. Was going to hang laundry outside today, but I guess the rain is supposed to move in before I leave the gym, so dryer it is. Food: 7:50 am Costco cinnamon roll, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:20 pm 1/2 c 2% cottage cheese w/chives, large tomato, slice Panera raisin bread w/butter & Bonne Maman peach preserves Exercise: 8:55-9:20 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 30 May

More awake time again last night, some coughing and nose blowing. Ready for it to cease soon. Bob has been a little more tired than usual coming home from work and is coughing a bit, so I hope he doesn't have a mild version of the same. It will be lucky if we can do the whole marathon on Saturday. Not the end of the world if we can't. Kathy and I made it a little further down the river path today on our walk. Food: 7:50 am Morning bun, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:40 pm Hard boiled duck egg, slice Panera raisin bread w/butter & Bonne Maman peach preserves, 100 g blueberries 4:15 pm 2 c kettle corn 5:45 pm 5 oz pork chop, 1 c sweet potatoes, 1 c asparagus Exercise: 8:30-10:10 am Walk w/Kathy

Wed 29 May

Much less gunk in the sinuses and throat last night - a hopeful sign. Got a lot of steps yesterday without excess fatigue. Might just be able to do this Walk Wisconsin thing on Saturday after all. Getting some of my energy back, but still had to tone down the weight a little for Body Pump. Food: 7:40 am Morning bun, 101 g blackberries, coffee 11:35 am Slice Omega 3 bread, 1 tbl Jif, 1 tbl Bonne Maman Wild Blueberry Preserves, large banana Exercise: 9:00-9:25 am Barre class 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 28 May

So tired of coughing and blowing out gunk in the mornings, but still - better out than in. Nice party at Laura's yesterday, though more people than I am accustomed to in one place at one time. She has unpacked enough and decorated the walls with her things so that even the temporary rental looks like home. Got a glimpse of her red and white Mini in the driveway, but it was raining at the time so didn't look closely. Steve Bierman's retirement (!) lunch today. Food: 7:50 am Honey bear pastry, 101 g blackberries, coffee Exercise: 9:35-11:05 am Walk to Schrmeeckle

Mon 27 May

Memorial Day. Laura's "I'm Back!" party in Madison. Will try to make the pies with mascarpone, cream, and strawberries for her party even though the recipe got discarded and I can't find the source. Food: 7:50 am Cheese danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 26 May

Nice day trip to Madison yesterday. Very successful at the Farmer's Market - beautiful tomato plants and all the herbs I wanted. Nice lunch at Brasserie V, though they had turned on their A/C and I was chilly by the end of the meal. My energy lasted as long as it needs to, but with not a lot to spare. I was glad to sit down and rest and to get home to my book. It was good that we didn't meet Laura's friend with her small children; I don't think my energy could have been stretched to touristy things with energetic cute kids. Weather was warm and mostly sunny while we were there; a nice change from what we've had to now. Food: 8:00 am Chocolate croissant, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Sat 25 May

Sleeping was downhill again last night, lots of nose blowing and coughing waking me up in the middle of the night. It's rarely a linear recovery. Food: 8:25 am Blackberry danish, 101 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 24 May

A better night's sleep last night as the gunk in my head is thickening a bit and didn't require as much nose blowing and coughing to wake me. I appreciate a little more restful sleep. Hope today will have a tad more energy. Food: 7:40 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:45 pm 2 scrambled eggs, slice homemade whole wheat toast w/butter & Bonne Maman Wild Blueberry preserves, 100 g blueberries Exercise: 8:55-9:20 am Treadmill 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Thurs 23 May

Didn't need decongestant last night, but still had a lot of nose-blowing and coughing up of gunk throughout the night. Almost scared to say that I think I feel slightly better this morning. We'll have to see how the day goes. Food: 7:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:45 pm 1/2 c 2% cottage cheese w/chives, slice homemade whole wheat bread w/Bonne Maman wild blueberry preserves, orange Exercise: 8:30-9:45 am Walk w/Kathy

Wed 22 May

This cold does not yet show signs of abatement. I was awake on and off throughout the night last night blowing my nose and coughing up gunk. I coughed up a big slug into the toilet at one point. There were high winds last night and the power went out from 2:30-4:30 am. Made it through a slow easy treadmill session and Body Pump class on light weights, but I feel pretty drained. Gotta recharge to make it through Bootstrap. Food: 7:45 am 1 c Quaker Oat Squares, 1/2 c soy milk, 101 g blackberries, coffee 12:15 pm 2 scrambled eggs, slice homemade whole wheat toast w/butter & Bonne Maman wild blueberry preserves Exercise: 9:05-9:25 am Treadmill (slow) 9:30-10:30 am Body Pump class

Tues 21 May

Slept a little better last night, though still plagued by this cold. More drainage in my throat this morning making my voice raspy. Hope I can refrain from infecting the kids on the last day of reading for the year. Food: 7:55 am Cream-filled coffee cake, 101 g blackberries, coffee