Elvis Presley was a model citizen.

(No idea who the girl is - just wanted the picture of Lilo and Stitch)

Good morning my friends!

Okay - so I may not be a 'model' citizen - but I did get my keister out of bed and exercise this morning. I'm going with the theme of brief but intense workouts this week, and increasing back to 25 minutes either this weekend or next week. So today I did .790 miles in 15 minutes. 4w/7r/4w.

It's not bad, and better than nothing.

But I am making a few changes between now and Monday to make it better:

Change 1: I'm finally hooking either the TV or the DVD player into the treadmill, like I can - so I can watch a movie while I run instead of listening to music if I wish.

Change 2: I'm going to change up my playlists again so I have new music to run to.

Change 3: See changes 1 and 2.

I'm still waiting on a nice piece of artwork donated to me by a disney friend to put up in the exercise room, so I can also put up the rest of the framed items I have, waiting to decorate the room...but since it's big (16x20) it will likely be the focal point, and I don't want to put anything else up until I have it.

Thank you to all my friends for helping me with a swift kick in the butt yesterday. The truth is - this is a long road ahead of me - and if I can't find my passion for it every day - I'll never get there.

But my passion isn't for the "run" - I figured this out last night - it's for the community. For the results. The run is just a means to an end. And I want that end. So I will be passionate about the means in order to accomplish the end for which I already have the passion to fuel the means.

That felt like a very Jack Sparrow paragraph...

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Mundane

Here's the problem I'm having.

For the last few days I've lacked motivation to run. Don't get me wrong - I'm doing it. But not a full 25 minutes. Shorter - like 15 or 20, depending on the day.

I'm just kinda 'blah' about it these last few days - not really getting up excited to do it.

I know this is normal - we all go through it at one point or another - but I'm going through it now. You know - where it's just not 'fun'?

Maybe I need more decoration in the exercise room. Maybe I should change up my music. Maybe I should just stop bellyaching and do it anyhow. :)

Foodwise, I'm doing alright. Nothing truly unscheduled or bad. Four days left to push for a good loss.

Have you guys ever just kinda not felt like working out? How did you battle it? How did you make it fun again? Suggestions?

But fear not - I'm not giving up. He never gave up - neither will I!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

What's in a Name?

Good morning, my friends. How was your weekend?

Just finished a somewhat abbreviated workout (no more taking two days off in a row - my legs wouldn't handle a full 25 minutes) - and ready to go for the day!

I've decided to make a few changes around here, and want your opinions before I implement them.

1. I'm considering changing the webaddress, and subsequently, the name of the blog. People have asked me time and time again why it's "voiceofmousetunes" when Mouse Tunes is no more. It may be time. What do you think of "thevoiceof" or "disneyvoiceguy" or "voiceofwdwradio", etc?

2. I'm adding pictures now - much more often. I have to admit to blatently stealing this idea from Kate and Rae, but it works for me, too.

Other than that - have a nice day planned - work - and good food.

B: Red Berries & Skim Milk

L: WW Frozen lunch, 100 cal. yogurt, apple

S: 100 cal. snack pack

D: Chicken breasts cut into pasta sauce over fresh fettucine

Dessert: Skinny Cow or popcorn.

No unauthorized snacking this week -remember (okay - officially yesterday doesn't count - I was at the folklife festival - and I did just fine - it was a chicken cheese steak...).

Here it is....MAIN STREET AWAITS!

337.2

Well - I said if I were down even a little I'd be happy - and I am down .4 pounds.

Therefore, I'm happy.

Not thrilled, but happy.

This is now the last week of the month - the plan this week is at least five full days of 25 minute runs, and good food intake and planning all week. No unscheduled eating out or snacking.

In one week we find out if I had it in me to lose more weight than Kate.

I'm ready to win. :)

And hey - how about that number over there ------->
showing you how much money we've raised together.

Now that feels good. I can't tell you how wonderful that feels.

Alright guys - have a great week! I'm off to a folk-life festival!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Well smack me thrice, and hand me to my mama!!

Okay - first off:

Pirates 3 was great. It hade a lot more of the "fun" feel of Pirates 1. Dead Man's Chest is the darker bridge in the middle - but Pirates 3 really wraps it up nicely.

Go see it.

Now - yesterday was a very nice day - but foodwise, it didn't go as planned. Had all our meals out, including a nice dinner. But ate a little more than I should have. It was our 'date' night, and I used it as an excuse. No more of that.

Today - so far so good. No running this morning, giving the legs a rest before the final week of the month (where I'm going to push HARD to the finish line and beat Kate) - but did a lot of heavy lifting and did our grocery shop - and some light painting.

So far I've eaten fairly light, and have a nice dinner (WW Pasta Fagiolio) coming up.

Tomorrow is the weigh-in. I'll admit - I'm scared of the aftermath of yesterday - but I know that whatever happens - I can undo it this coming week. If I'm down even a little - I'll be happy.

This week I'm really going to pull all the piceces into place, and shoot for the moon!

I believe - do you?

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

"The Place Was Made With a Magical Plan"

"And just around the corner is a Fantasyland - you're walking right down the middle of Main Street U.S.A.!!!!!!!!"

If you haven't listened to the Welcome Medley lately - do so. And if you can do it while running - all the better.

Kate is doing number crunching - and doing a great job shooting for her goals - despite the fact that I'm kicking my butt into high gear to beat her! (Great job Kate! We're all proud of you!)

Rae is warning us all to watch ALL the PC3 Credits - and later today when I go see it - I will.

Today should be a fun day overall! Already did my 25 minute run (4w/7r/3w/7r/4w - 1.414 miles) - and now on the way out.

We're going to the Home Depot to pick up some paint testers for the bathrooms, then taking a ferry ride, and scoping out a cute little town near by. Then it's off to a nice relaxing lunch by the water - and then PIRATES 3!!!!

I'll give you more comments on the movie tomorrow (spoiler free, I promise) - but for now - AVAST THERE! It be too late to alter course!!

DEAD MEN RUN NO RACES! Um...

I mean...

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Listening to My Body

Good morning! So - when I awoke this morning at 5:30, my legs were still nice and sore from yesterday's run.

I definately didn't want to injure myself.

Now wait - don't get all upset. You're probably thinking this is the old me - the one that would have stayed in bed, and "rested" instead of exercising. The one that would have let such a setback throw off his whole day.

You'd be wrong, wrong, wrong.

Not only did I workout - I did it smart! Yes, I didn't do a full 25 minutes. But I did do 15 minutes with three minute intervals of walking/running - for a quick .777 miles.

I wasn't going to miss a workout just because of soreness caused by using the muscles. I was going to WORK them. Not as hard as usual, but work them nonetheless.

I will now pause and allow you to praise me. :)

Movin' right along...tomorrow and Sunday I'm going to make sure I do a full 25 each day, and really finish the week strong. I stuck to the meal plan yesterday, mostly - except the afternoon apple was replaced with a high-protien, low sugar, meal replacement bar. And I added some exercise yesterday in the form of moving heavy office furniture all around my office by myself.

And then promptly realizing it didn't fit where I moved it and moving it back where it was originally, cursing my lack of a tape measure the whole time.

I will now pause and allow you to mock me. :)

Tonight is poker with the gang - and tomorrow is PIRATES!!!!

And wait...is that a three-day weekend I see coming up? COOLNESS.

A week and a half left in my bet with Kate. What do you think Kate? Do I have it in me to win?

I'll say I do! Especially with the calories I'm burning laughing while listening to WDWToday. "Aw c'mon - there's always room for Mon-Gello!"

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Putting It Together

Here's the problem with making "better choices" (like the occassional sandwich/CLIF stop) - I have no idea what's in the sandwiches. Sure - they're likely less calories than a burger - but they're not what I had planned, so it's unauthorized.

So now that I've finished another 25 minute workout (4w/7r/3w/7r/4w) - I'm ready for a great day - and my goal today is to eat ONLY my authorized food.

Here's the plan:

B: Red Berries (in about 45 minuntes)
L: WW Frozen, apple, 100 cal pack.
S: an extra apple for a car trip
D: Lean pork chop, WW orzo w/ basil, veggies
Dessert: popcorn, if any

Not so bad - if I can stick to it. Haven't yet one day this week - but I am going to put it all together today.

You see - there's this bet I have - and I intend to win - despite the fact, that Kate has put on her "A" game this week and is dropping pounds like hot potatoes! (GO KATE GO!!!!)

In Disney News: I can't wait for Saturday to come so we can go see PIRATES!!! We've watched Black Pearl and Dead Man's Chest already this week - and I am STOKED. I think Geoffrey Rush was the ultimate character, and I adored Bill Nighy's performance. But to see Johnny and Geoffrey back together - will be a truly amazing feat.

Who's with me?!

YO HO, YO HO - A PIRATE'S LIFE FOR....oh wait....I mean...

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Getting It Right

A quick update from yesterday - had ANOTHER day where things went weird around lunch, and did the same thing - sandwich and CLIF bar. Got home late, so abandoned our planned dinner (which would have taken an hour to cook) in favor of light pasta (ravioli) with sauce and some broccoli. Peeked at the scale this morning - up a little (like half a pound)- but not too much to worry about.

Today: have a long early morning drive (90-120 minutes out to court) - and I don't have time to do a run this morning. Have to blog and run.

However - I will do my 25 minutes tonight. And then tomorrow morning. And Friday. And Saturday. Etc. It was a good run - felt good.

Foodwise for today - here's the plan:

B: South Beach Meal Replacement Bar and an apple (can eat these in the car)

L: Lean Cuisine, Apple, 100 Cal pack. (These are already at the office from yesterday - and I HAVE no court this afternoon)

D: WW Sloppy Joes, WW Basil Orzo, Veggie

Dessert: Skinny Cow and/or popcorn - maybe.

My goal for today is to STICK to that plan. To get it right. Once I can get the food right consistently, then the exercise will really start working hard - and we can put it all together.

I know I've come really far...but I caught a glimpse of myself last night in the mirror...and got very upset. It's like my rationalizing glasses were gone. I didn't see "I'm okay" anymore. I saw "I'm fat and ugly." It shocked me. And it was not easy to look at. On one hand - it made me really want to change. On the other, it made me want to curl up and cry.

This morning, on the other hand - I seemed to see progress in the mirror - and hope.

So who knows what's going on in that crazy head of mine...just thought I'd put it here.

Rae: Blu-Ray is a new format for DVD watching - it's High-Definition (full 1080p) and stunningly clear and beautiful. We watched the first half of Dead Man's Chest last night - and it was incredible looking AND sounding. Check out www.bluray.com for more details. :)

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Surprises

Some good - some great - some not so much.

We'll start with the less than great surprises, and work up.

Here's the problem: see - I'm an attorney. And I'm not one of those "office" attorneys - I'm in court every day of the week. Usually multiple courts - with office time in between. I'm on the go. But I usually have a good idea of my schedule, so I can meal plan for the day.

But then days like yesterday happen - a 10:30 courtdate, that should have gotten me to the office around 11:30 with enough time to scarf lunch before leaving at 12:15 for the next court date, lasted an extra hour. So I missed the office entirely and by 1:30 when I was done with all the courts, was starving....with a 2pm appointment waiting for me at the office, so no time when I got there.

SURPRISE!

But instead of panicking and making a bad decision - I just went to the courthouse lunch counter and bought a turkey sandwich and a CLIF bar (way better than a powerbar anyday). Then later at the office ate my apple and my 100 calorie snack pack. The rest of the day went as normal.

Not ideal - not what I planned - but not a bad sub. If I can work around this and limit these occurrances, and just make the best choice possible when they occur - I should be okay. Right?

Next - this morning - I did TWENTY FIVE MINUTES. 4w/7r/3w/7r/4w. A full warm up and cool down. And I ran 1.40 miles! How's that? I'm shocked, myself. I can't believe I'm capable of it....but I am.

Maybe 13 miles isn't so bad....

And the final surprise...

I got a bunch of sponsorship letters yesterday - thank you for yours....but today I'm giving a special shoutout to Rae. YOU made my day.

Included with her check, she added the Pirates covered park-map for my collection, as well as the first and second Pirates Disney Dollar. When the third comes out - she's going to send me that too! How cool is that?!?

We watched Pirates 1 last night in preparation for this weekend....but tonight, I'm picking up Dead Man's Chest on Blu-Ray.....ooooooooooh man am I excited!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

337.6

My weekly goal is 1.7 pounds - and I hit 1.6 this week. Almost there, but not quite.

Still nothing to shake a stick at.

I've learned a lot this past week, too. Things that will serve me well the next two weeks, and beyond.

I've learned that Cruella isn't good for me.

I've learned that 20 minutes isn't enough anymore.

I've learned that I need to stick to my meal planning, and then I'll be fine.

I've learned that a good week doesn't have to be perfect.

I've learned that all of you still support and believe in me.

Yesterday was my sister-in-law's baby shower. I helped. One of the biggest ways I helped was by carrying her gift (a stroller/carseat) on my shoulder (it was HEAVY) - down a flight of stairs, then up three and across our complex to the bungalow.

But I got it there...in about 5 minutes.

About two months ago - I don't think I'd have been able. Now I am.

As a gift for myself , and in consideration of the fact that I worked a lot yesterday - today will be my day off from running. My plan is to do 25 minutes Tuesday through Sunday of this week.

Meals scheduled for today:

B: Special K Red Berries and Milk
L: Healthy Choice (not sure which one) - apple - 100 cal. Hershey Pack
S: 100 cal cracker pack
D: 1/4 lb. lean ground beef burger, whole wheat bun, WW Steak Fries, veggies - (total of 9 points)
Dessert (if any): Skinny Cow and/or Popcorn.

If I can stick to it - with no unnecessary snacking - and go the whole week like that - I'm hoping for a more dramatic weight drop this week. Nothing weird this week to get in my way - no drives that are too long - no special events. Nothing.

Let's see how good we can make it!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Just Keep Swimming

Another Dori quote. Gotta love her.

So I wanted to respond to some issues that have come up in my comments from Kate and Rae - and reassure you all of a few things. But first - thank you so much for worrying about me. That truly means the world to me.

I am officially dropping Cruella for awhile. (Maybe a month) I purchased the iFit card (Weight Loss level 1 - Beginner) in the hopes that it would help me run better - but in fact, the running is what's helping me run better. Cruella is just frustrating me. And so until I build up some more endurance - as suggested - she's history for now.

My calf is much better - and was even 30 minutes later. No tearing, no bruising. A simple cramp - but a good message, nonetheless.

I'm also going to be seeing a doctor over the summer (I have two months left in my perscription) for a full physical and workup - also to discuss my efforts, and nutrition. (Although - I kind of talk to a doctor every day - my parents are both medical - dad's a doc, mom's a nurse).

As for a physical trainer - I plan on joining a gym in the not too distant future (I miss lifting weights) - and most of the ones around here come with a few training sessions included in your memebership.

So - I think I'm on the right track. Until then - I'm going to keep attempting a 6 day a week exercise plan with walking and jogging together. I've been doing 20 minutes total (3 minute warm up and 2 minute cooldown with intervals in the middle) - but I think starting tomorrow I'm upping it to 25 (in fact, I've just updated my playlists and added a song or two to each of my two).

Now - to answer a few trendy questions:

Here's my average day's food intake (it's loosely based on the WW Points system):

Breakfast: Special K Red Berries and Organic Skim Milk; OR two eggland's best eggs inside two pieces of low-fat oroweat bread; OR in a pinch a South Beach Meal Replacement Bar.

Lunch: Either a sandwich on said bread (I use Hillshire Farms low-fat deli slices, and fat free mayo - lettuce, tomato, etc) - or a Healthy Choice or WW microwave meal. Usually add an apple as well.

Snacks: Fruit (apples, grapes, watermelon, etc); 100 calorie packs (oreo, hershey, etc.)

Dinner: We pick a 7-10 point WW dinner, usually with steamed veggies too.

Dessert: Either a Skinny Cow Ice Cream or a package of Smart Pop 94% fat free popcorn. Sometimes some baked chips and salsa.

Comments? :)

And now - the other trendy question - my favorite attractions!!!!

Magic Kingdom: Splash Mountain
EPCOT: (Can I say the OLD Journey into Imagination?) Soarin'
MGM: Tower of Terror or Star Tours (Just listen to me geek-out on WDWRadio this week!)
Animal Kingdom: Kilamanjaro Safari
Downtown Disney: La Nouba



Now - what's your favorite non-attraction in each park - i.e. - what's your favorite show? Restaurant? Resort?

Okay - I'm off to go do my last ever 20 minute workout!

See you guys for the weigh-in tomorrow!!!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

File this under the "No Kidding" heading!

Ow.

I'm in a lot of pain at this moment.

It's easing up as I stretch. But I've learned a valuable lesson.

First an update - dinner last night went very well - we had a very nice dinner (I had oysters, salad, and lobster - with some rolls - but peeked at the scale this morning - and still doing well). And Shrek III was quite funny! (Go Snow White!!!)

Then I woke up this morning and decided to exercise. It's Cruella's day, so I started up that hill.

Around minute 7 (3.0 spd/3.5 incline) my calf started burning - nothing new.

Around minute 8 (3.0/4.0) it started tightening.

At minute 9 (3.0/4.5) it was beginning a full blown charlie horse cramp. At 9:30 I had to stop and hop off, and hobble to the bed to massage - then stand and stretch.

And then it occurred to me....

(wait for it - this is a huge revelation)

...perhaps I should stretch BEFORE working out as well as after.

I know - no duh, right?

Hey - I'm new to exercise and getting fit - and I'm going to learn as I go. But that one I should have known.

So no more hills for today - we'll do some running tomorrow after a stretch.

Today I'm off to the church to help those 8th grades put together their service for tomorrow. It's the culmination of Coming of Age for them - so it's a big deal for them - and I enjoy helping.

Sounds like all my friends are doing well too - don't forget to drop them a line and say hi - tell them you're rooting for them like I am!

That's the strength of this, you know - our community - our support. We can help each other!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

A boat?!? HEY! I've seen a boat!

It passed this way just a few minutes ago! C'mon!!!!

Alright - so we didn't watch the whole movie last night - just this scene - to show off our awesome TV and sound system to the boss. Bonus points if you can ID the movie and character. ;)

So - already done with a 20 minute run workout - 3w/6r/3w/6r/2w - felt great. A little calf soreness and pain, but not too bad - and only during minutes 5-6 of the running spurts. Suggestions for good stretches to minimize this and to help with the occassional shin pain? (Don't worry Rae, I'm going to check out those websites today.)

I peeked at the scale, and we're on track. No worries.

I honestly feel as if my body had plateaued for awhile there, and now I'm climbing over that hump for another big push.

Tonight is the big dinner out - but it's at a nice seafood place here - and I'm figuring on some nice high protien, low fat shellfish - with a salad - and staying AWAY from the butter sauce. Should do fine.

In other news: the second half of the Honeymoon Podcast is out over at www.allaboutthemouse.com - go take a listen - and tell Bryan I sent ya.

I'm recieving your pledge checks from April - let me say again how humbling it is to know you all care enough to help me with this goal. From those of you sending a few pennies more, to exactly what you pledged, to the anonymous Mousekattorney who's now sent me $200 extra. You'll notice on the right that I've updated the statistics from "Money Earned" to "Pledges Recieved". I'll update this as I go to the bank every two weeks to deposit the pledges. It was getting too hard to keep track of a total 'pledge' amount - considering not everyone sends the exact amount they pledged.

But the long and the short of it is: We're over $400 in the bank folks.

That's WONDERFUL. $1750 is the first goal - and we're well on our way. Just think of that child - his or her eyes wide hugging Mickey or Goofy or whomeever they love most. YOU are making that happen.

How's that for a happy thought today?

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Progress

Welcome to Jonathan Dichter's Carousel of Progress! On most carousels you just go round and round without getting anywhere, but on this one, with every turn we'll be making progress!

And that's what I've done today - made progress.

Already hit Cruella up for a 20 minute iFit. Was able to go six minutes without adjusting the speed on that darn hill, and still finished it. What are good stretches for shin splints?

Yesterday was a good food day - despite a long drive - no uncalled for snacking - and lots of water. I was quite proud of myself.

Today should be a fairly normal day - no long drives - but the boss is coming over for dinner - so I have to make sure my house is tidy! Hehehehe

A few shout outs today:

Wife of Mine - Every morning you ask how my exercise was. You have no idea how much that helps me. I love you!

Rae - I am sending positive energy your way - and I'd ask you all to do so - as her sister-in-law is in the hospital. If there's anything I can do - let me know.

Kate - One of my biggest supporters - and my most honest critc - don't lose faith in either of us - we're going to get there. I promise!

Erock - LESS than 180 days for your trip! Have you picked out a few jogging sites while you're down there?

Lou - KUNGALOOSH!

I know that sometimes I stumble and get down on myself - but I believe in me - and I get right back up and keep going. I believe in my desire to change. I believe in the magic of this community and this goal.

We're going to make this happen. Together.

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Tough Love

Okay - first an update:

No exercise today - woke up too late and have to leave for court soon...so today's my day off from the treadmill.

Yesterday didn't go as planned. I packed my stuff, but ate it all way to quickly, and then had a gas station stop for powerbars and beef jerky. I ate way too much - and it was a lot of salty stuff - so today I'm bloated and holding onto stuff inside. It wouldn't surprise me if I've gained back a pound or two already.

Now I had already felt guilty - and vowed to rectify the situation today through Sunday. To finish out this week strong...but then...I read a comment Rae posted late on my Monday blog. I'm sharing a snip of it with you:

"I am not trying to be mean it a plan fact.Tough Love.The human body can go with out food 7days,but not water.You would dehydrate before you would starve to death.How bad do you want to send someone to Disney???Think of the child you want to send and their family and how greatful they all will be when they get the call to go,and its coming from what you raised.How bad do you want to run in the half marathon?Can you see your family,cheering you on,and all the people there JUST watching Can you feel the feelings you're gonna feel when YOU FINALLY get to run through the castle on MAIN STREET???"

Holy cow, Rae. If my own motivations weren't enough - you've pushed me past that mark. Really driven the point home. You're right.

I wasn't hungry - I was bored - and maybe thirsty.

It's time to just break some of those bad habits and work on making them healthier choices.

There's only one thing standing between me and Main Street......

Me.

My own weaknesses and frailties. And it's time to start really overcoming them.

I'm not even going to let the celebration on Friday get me down - I'm going to make healthy dinner choices and eat lighter that whole day.

I know folks - some of this might sound familiar - and talk is cheap.

But watch the numbers. As Rafiki says "It is time!"

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Quick Update

Thanks to everyone for giving me a much needed kick in the pants yesterday - I'm feeling much better today!

Already did my exercise - 3w/6r/3w/6r/2w - I can run for six minutes! How cool is THAT? Used to be two! :)

I'm off to pack a nice healthy lunch bag for my long drive today.

If I can manage to make good enough time, I'll be recording with Lou and Matt Hochberg tonight for this week's WDWRadio...

Hopefully Hochberg will stay up late enough to wait for me to get home! :)

Talk to you guys tomorrow!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

339.2

Again - I'll admit to being slightly dissapointed at these results.

Down 1.1 pounds in one week (and yes, if you were paying attention, 1 pound total in the last TWO weeks)...

I'm sure what happened is that Friday night's grazing of not so good for me food affected me way more than I'd like to admit.

Granted - I'm still down.

Just not the 1.7 I need to be on track for my goal weight.

It has to be all the snacking - I'm way hungrier now than I used to be because of the exercise - I'm drinking more water - but snacking more. Grazing more.

If I eat more fiberous foods and fill up at meals, perhaps I can counteract this - have an extra apple instead of wheat thins or a skinny cow sometimes.

And frankly - I'm scared of this week. It presents some challenges.

1) Driving. I have a good deal to do this week (about 3 hours today, 8 tomorrow, and 3 Wednesday). This is always prime time for me to snack.

2) Friday night's dinner. We're going out to a nice restaurant because it's our 3 year dataversary. Three years since our second first date (trust me - it's not as confusing as it sounds) - and we're going to the restaurant it all started at.

With three weeks left in this month's cycle (June 4 is the end) - am I going to lose to Kate?

I'm not giving up though. I refuse to get down on myself.

I just need a little push guys. You are wonderful at remdining me - giving me strength and power to keep pushing myself.

And while you do that - I'm going to go use the treadmill - so I can get started on a week of changes. Less snacking - better food overall - and let the exercise do it's job. I can do this. I know it. You believe in me, don't you?

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

We have a winner!!!

But first - today so far has been a wonderful day!

1.17 miles this morning - 2w/5r/2w/5r/2w/2r-faster/2w - not bad!

Later today I get to help my good friend Timminy Cricket plan his Vegas wedding - sorta...his fiancee is helping more, of course. ;)

I'm glad you guys are still with me - and encouraged me to take yesterday off - it was JUST what I needed. And now I have a big week coming up! Although there's a special occassion coming up on Friday that necessitates a VERY nice dinner - but I'll have earned it by then. :)

And now - yes, Kate. You're right!!!

Three Amigos was the inspiration for the Infamous comment.

You win one Dole Whip to be delivered to your hands, after the 1/2 marathon in 2009. I'll come find you at Stormalong Bay and not only will it still be frozen - it'll be tasty with those Donald medals around our necks!

Don't miss tomorrow folks - a new week begins - with a new weigh-in and possibly some other related news!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

My Day Off

Yes folks - everyone else seems to be doing it - so today I'm doing it. :) Today it's my day off from exercise. Tomrrow I'll put in a good run to finish out the week, but today it's relaxation day!

We're going out to do some shopping - and some planning for home improvements - and a nice lunch out - and who knows what for dinner tonight.

Last night didn't QUITE go as planned foodwise - we were at poker, and I was told we'd have chicken for dinner...not expecting Orange and/or Teriyaki chicken and rice. Not bad - but I'm sure I ate a bit too much of it. So I'll go easy today - and get lots of gentle walking in while we meander around.

And tomorrow I'll make a big push for the Monday weigh in!

And hey - my All About the Mouse interview part one is up! Anyone going to guess at the "Infamous" joke?

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Humility at the hands of Cruella

I have learned a valuable lesson today. I tried another 20 minute iFit (still on #1) workout with Cruella - but decided to NOT adjust the speed at all - unless I REALLY had to. (You'll recall that last time I made it to minute 6). This time I made it to minute 8, but was literally groaning in pain (speed 3.4mph - incline was at 4.5). My calves were on fire.

So I slowed it to 2.7, thinking they'd cool off as the incline rose (5.0, then 6.0, then 6.5, then 7.0).

They didn't.

And at 11 minutes in - I had to stop.

I just couldn't finish it. I was in too much pain. Sure - now - about 20 minutes later, they feel fine, but at that moment - I could not go on.

This called into sharp memory a comment by Dr. Scopa on the All About the Mouse Show. "Don't be concerned with huge pushes right now, Jonathan. Just do a little more than you did last time - and you'll get there."

I pushed too hard this morning - and my workout suffered.

But I learned. And still have managed to use the treadmill 5 out of 5 days so far this week. (Editor's Note: Rae's quote today seems rather appropriate here - at least I was on the road....sorta.)

Speaking of learning - Rae asked a wonderful question yesterday - "What is a Dole Whip?"

Ooooooooooh man. If Mike Scopa could hear you - he'd be furious! :)

Dole Whip Floats, which are available in Adventure Land at Aloha Isle (and I believe at Captain Cook's at the Polynesian) are essentialy this: soft serve pineapple Ice Cream with Dole Pinapple Juice surrounding, and some whipped cream.

And they're wonderful.

Sure - they're no Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster (heheh - hiya Kate) - but they're still wonderful.

And I'll share one with you all at MouseFest, or better yet - after the Half in '09!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

In-Famous?

Good morning true believers! (I did that just for you JoggerBlogger)

First off - I'd like to welcome Erock to the blog, and applaud him (I think) for deciding to join me in 2009! Hearing that people are being inspired by me is truly touching - and affects me in ways I can't describe.

Secondly - a quick update - this morning I did my run/jog - 1.15 miles in about 20:30 minutes. 2wx4r times three with a two minute cooldown. (Weird revelation - last night I'm stitting on the couch and just moved my leg, and....woah! There's a new line of definition in my thigh! COOL!)

I've been doing great with exercise this week - and....okay with food. A few extra snacks here and there - but nothing to feel terrible about. We'll see how Monday looks. I want to make sure I'm drinking extra water, too.

Today will be interesting - lots of driving - so lots of car time. I'm packing two turkey sandwiches and some grapes and some healthy snacks with the goal of avoiding the gas stations. :)

Now - to the topic.

Last night I did another recording session with Bryan Ripper of "All About the Mouse" - look for the episode this weekend. We were talking about Disney honeymoons, of which we both have partaken. BUT - he introduced me as the infamous voice guy.

To which I responded with a wonderful joke from a truly guilty pleasure movie of mine.

Can you identify it?

There MIGHT even be a prize involved. Oh heck - whoever identifies the quote first - is having a Dole Whip on me. (I should say - WITH ME - purchased by me....but not on me.)

But before I can have a Dole Whip, I have to work hard to get to the parks - and to get to that race.

It's out there folks - closer than we all think.

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Three in a row.

Yes true believers - it's now been three days in a row that I have used our treadmill in a workout effort. :)

This morning I hung out for a full iFit workout with Cruella - had to alter the speed at minute six, though. Did minutes 1-2 at 2.5 - then 3.0 with an incline of 3. Then incline to 4 and slowly up to 7.0 (speed reduced to 2.7). Then working our way down from minute 11.

.966 miles in 20 minutes - but a hard workout nonetheless.

In other news: this summer just keeps getting busier and busier. Now, in addition to seeing my family and possibly going to a conference in Boston - we're going to Vegas in August for a good friend's wedding. :) We already booked our rooms, and got a great deal! WOOHOO!!

Still - with all that, I'm hoping to go to MouseFest - just have to see what the budget will still hold - after things like painting our new place - and a new bedroom set, etc.

It seems, however, as if life is just moving all in the right direction for me these last few days - as if some unseen force is guiding me towards happy times and fun memories - and telling me that I'm on the right path.

How good does that feel?

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

A Numbers Post

Numbers numbers everywhere!!!

Here are a few to get you started:

13 - this is the number of minutes I hung out with Cruella last night even though I didn't get home until after 7pm, and was starving because my lunch went bad and I hadn't eaten yet.

21 - this is the number of minutes I worked out this morning - running/jogging at an interval pace. Alternating speed from 2 minutes at 2.5mph to 4 minutes at 4mph - and repeating. So I did three running cycles and four walking cycles.

1.163 - this is how many miles I went this morning.

And now the best number of all:

200.

That's my goal weight for the half marathon. I have no idea how realistic that is - or how I'll be able to perform at that weight or more or less, but it was suggested that I put a number out there, so I can figure out how far I need to go.

So that's my number.

That means I have to lose, on average: 7.7 pounds per month from now until January 09 (which translates into 1.9 lbs per week) to make it. So let's set that as a goal. 7.7 pounds per month minimum.

That's doable! VERY doable. :)

A small side note from yesterday - Kate didn't make me sad - the suggestion that I wasn't giving it my all made me sad - because in part - it was truer than I wanted to admit. But fear not my fellow friendly followers!

I am in it to win it! :)

Gear up for a great month! (editors note: this month extends until June 4th, as agreed by Kate and I).

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

340.3

Okay - here's the thing: yes - I gained 1 tenth of a pound over the last week. Yes, I didn't exercise a full six days last week (I only managed really 3 and a half). Yes, I overate on Saturday, and kinda had a feeling I'd gain.

BUT - it's only 1 tenth of a pound. And - if you recall - even a slight gain (see a month or so ago) urges me on to a great push that week.

Let's analyze what went wrong last week - and how to combat it this week.

1) Not enough exercise. Simple - do more this week - even if it means doing it at a weird time (I prefer mornings, but have had trouble getting up - or sometimes, I have to leave early for work - and then I get home - and by the time 8pm rolls around I don't want to) - I just have to push myself and hold myself to my plan. This week: six days. Three with Cruella - three without (run/jog).

2) Weekend splurging. Saturday was the Kentucky Derby - so we went to the racetrack - and there we ate - and I splurged a bit (club sandwich, cole slaw, a cheese/veggie plate, and a small dessert). Afterwards - dinner out with friends (crab louie salad and a cup of soup) and Spider-Man 3 at the IMAX (popcorn). The problem here is that I did this all in one day and towards the end of the week - and later at night. So I'm still holding on to some of it. Solution has already begun - we meal planned - and are good to go for the week with good low-cal low-fat snacks and meal options.

I want to make something clear here - Kate has suggested to me by e-mail that I might be letting her win our bet this month. That if I'm not committed to this - she doesn't want to play.

More than anything this week - that e-mail, which I got yesterday - made me incredibly sad.

And I want to tell you, and Kate, that I am very committed here. Yes - it's still a struggle to do the right thing, and I will slip, but I am going to make this change in my life. And I am going to win this bet this month.

So, Kate, give me one week - and watch what happens. If you still don't believe I'm serious - feel free to get angry at me publically and privately. But I swear - I'm not going to let you down.

I'm not going to let ANY of you down.

This is for me. This is for us. This is for them.

MAIN STREET AWAITS!!!

Horizons

"If we can dream it, then we can do it. Yes we can, yes we can!"

Okay - so another new type of post today - using an attraction theme to talk about my goals...and what's going on in my life.

And today I feel the need to talk about Horizons.

You see - it's not because today I'm a big believer - quite the opposite. I woke up at 5am, planning on getting on the treadmill, and was exhausted, and ended up sleeping another hour. I peeked at the scale, and despite working out twice already this week harder than ever - have made very little progress (if any).

But instead of feeling down - I'm going to try to pull myself up by my own bootstraps and remember that human ingenuity is what it takes to advance ANYTHING to the next level. If Rae isn't giving up - and Kate is still going strong - and Byron is doing great - then who am I to feel sorry for myself? I have more faith in me than that!

So I just keep swimming - but I find a way to swim more efficiently.

Here are a few ideas that may be implemented in the coming weeks:

1) An excel spreadsheet to track my exercise performance, including date, weight, distance, max speed, max incline, conditions (if outdoors), and time. Thank you to Dr. Scopa for this suggestion! I love it!

2) Framing some artwork to cover the walls in the exercise room - Disney things - Inspiring things - to aid the emotional power of that room.

3) Less scale peeking - and less snacking. More wholefood meals to satisfy my growing hunger, as my body needs more and more fuel.

Oh yeah - and 4) Sending out the letters to my April sponsors. *grin* That'll happen this weekend...as soon as I buy some paper. LOL

The fact, folks, is this: I started this journey as a lazy 370 pound Disney Geek. I've already become a less-lazy 340 pound Disney Geek. But what's happening? I'm changing. As a person - as a concept. I have a long way to go - but hey - this isn't a sprint, is it? Nope - it's a MARATHON - remember?

Using all the skills at my disposal - I will get through this - and will come out the other side as a new, better, healthier man. I dream at least once a week of running up Main Street....and they're right you know...."If I can dream it, then I can do it!"

Yes I can.

YES I CAN!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

It's a Kind of Magic

And it is - no matter what you think - you're wrong if you don't believe.

It is a kind of magic that we're creating here.

I was discussing magic last night - and that's what this is all about for me. Magic - Dreams - Wishes.

The voicework - the blog - the weight loss - none of it is for anything other than a piece of excitement - a chance to make magic.

A chance to be a part of a dream - even if it's my own dream of being fit.

My dream of making a difference.

My dream of running down Main Street, U.S.A.

That's the dream that pushes me every time I get on the treadmill. To push a little harder - go a little longer. (Speaking of which - I've been doing 20 minute workouts for a few weeks. I'm starting a new plan in about a week.)

Here's the idea: right now I'm EITHER doing iFit with Cruella (20 minute workouts designed around a goal - so far max speed 3.5 max incline 7.0) - or doing my own flat walk/jog (20-21 minutes at varying speeds - but I've found out I can hold 4.0 speed at a jog for 6 minutes!).

Next week I'm going to try to actually do six workouts - altenating days - and trying NOT to change Cruella's settings.

And the week after that - I'm adding five minutes to my 20 minute routine (Thank you for the suggestion Dr. Scopa!).

You see - this is really going to happen to me. I think I'm just now beginning to accept that not only can't I turn back - I don't really want to. Sure this is a huge committment to myself and others - but it's worth it, isn't it?

So today - I honor the magic of Disney - and recommit myself to this goal. Recommit myself to 2009. Recommit to reach constantly for new Horizons, journey further into my Imagination, while I run over The Land, through my own Universe of Energy, and a good 13.3 miles around our own Spaceship Earth. (Hey - if Jeff Pepper can honor EPCOT on his blog - so can I! hehehe)

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

God Help the Outcasts

I don't know if you can hear me,
Or if you're even there.

I don't know if you would listen,
To a Gypsy's prayer.

I know I'm just an outcast,
I shoudln't talk to you.

Yet I see your face and wonder,
Were you once an outcast too?

Today I'm giving you the second Disney song of my blog so far. Today is not about me. Today is about them. The children helped by the Starlight Starbright Foundation - the Dream Team Project - you and me.

These are children who are suffering every day with terminal illnesses, and together, we can make a huge difference in their lives. We can send them on a trip to our most magical place - our happiest place - our place where dreams and wishes come true.

Yes - I exercised this morning - 1.11 miles in 20 minutes - but today I didn't exercise for me. Most days I do. Most days I exercise to get healthy - and to achieve my goals.

But this morning, I ran for them. Today when I eat healthy instead of unhealthy - it'll be for them. It's for all of them - and for you. It's for the little girl in Kate's poem - and every other little girl out there suffering. It's for every little boy who may never get to be a pirate.

It's for them.

Help me help them. May is just starting. Send me an e-mail at Grizzpyre@yahoo.com - sponsor me - and help them. $1/lb is all it takes - just one month - and you will make a difference - I swear it to you.

God help the outcasts,
Hungry from birth.

Show them the mercy,
They don't find on Earth.

Please help my people,
They look to you still.

God help the outcast,
Or nobody will.


Thank you for reading - listening - and helping. They love you more than I can express.


I ask for nothing,
I can get by.

But I know so many,
Less luck than I.

God help my people,
The poor and downtrod.

I thought we all were,
The children of God.....

God help the Outcasts,
Children of God.




Main Street Awaits.