Numbers and Thoughts

Okay - first of all - kudos to Tiger for being the first to properly identify Jodi Benson, who as you all know, was the voice of Ariel, the Little Mermaid, as well as Tour Guide Stacie, in Toy Story 2. Great job!!! I had the wonderful privilege of meeting Ms. Benson at the Music Behind the Magic exhibit here in Seattle at their opening weekend, and reported on it for the now extinct MouseTunes podcast. Do you all remember that?

Meals this week are going great - yesterday was totally as planned:

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: South Beach Frozen meal/Apple/100 cal yogurt

D: Lean burgers/WW Steak Fries/Mixed Veggies

Dessert: 100 cal cookies and cream cup/WiseCracker Cracker

Exercise wise - I'm UNDER 200 minutes away from my goal - which means that between Saturday and Monday I have to do an average of 68 minutes per workout. I plan to do 70/70/60 which will put me over the top and get me to my goal, albeit three days late. (And, mgreene - no excuses, just sayin' it how it is - I'm through with excuses - I hope. LOL)

Now - today I'm going to ask you to put some of your considerable positive energy to work for me. 

There are two people who could use a few good thoughts today - and this is the time to do something good for someone you may not know.

The first is GMarie - my paralegal and good friend. She's been having some health difficulties lately and we're all very worried about her. She's having surgery today to hopefully rectify the problems, and everyone in my office and my home life is sending her all the good mojo we can. So if you have a minute - send a good thought her way.

Secondly - Amber. Today is a milestone for her. Her last day of work. 

Not before vacation, not before a break, but just...her last day at this job. She's been unhappy there for some time (years, in fact) - now she'll miss the people and friends - but not the job itself. And as for what she's doing afterwards....(aside from going to Disney World)....nobody knows.

She's going to focus on herself - hobbies - interests - health - and figuring out the next chapter in her life. How brave of a step is that? 

I'm proud of you, sweetheart! And I know everyone here wishes you well!!!

And hey guys - in FOUR DAYS - I'll be....well you know. ;)

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

On Motivation and Mousekateers!

First off - nobody guessed right as to who this lady is: so try again! Here's two clues:

1) She's related to Disney.

2) She was a part of "Toy Story 2"

Shall I offer a prize if you can identify her?

Yesterday's meals went perfectly as planned:

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Zero Point Soup/Apple/100 cal Kudos Bar

D: Chicken Breast/Whole Wheat Natural Rice/Broccoli/Cauliflower

Dessert: Skinny Cow Cone

And now - I wanted to talk a bit about motivation. What makes us do the things we do? Why are we here journeying together to get healthier and stronger as people?

Everyone's individual motivation is going to differ, there's just no two ways about that. But I want to know YOURS. Consider this an official MouseKateer Roll Call question! I want comments today my friends - tell me WHAT DRIVES YOU to live a better life.

Me?

Well - for me it's a hard question to answer. You see, I've struggled with weight for fifteen years. And I've tried many "diets" or "programs" and yet, in February I was 370+ pounds.

So how have I lost 60+ (heading to seventy)? What motivated me?

Yes - I'm doing this for ME. You have to do it for yourself, but what I found was that a challenge, or even LITTLE challenges help push me along the way. See - I know the health risks, and those are important, to be sure, but have never pushed me hard enough to get the job done.

And then - Lou came along. And Lou presented me with an idea. Using my weight loss to help OTHERS. And then an idea to run. And bingo. I had challenges galore.  What will I do when I'm done with the 09 half? Probably start training for a repeat. Or even more - perhaps a full marathon. I don't know yet - but I'll have other challenges to push my successes even further - and to continue to help people along the way.

And as I rise to each challenge, new ones will present themselves. That's why I set goals each month - and sometimes little competitions with friends and supporters - the challenge aspect keeps me driven. And of course...those Make-A-Wish kids.

Before I close, I want to RE-PRESENT something here to you all. If you're new to the blog, you may not have seen it - it's a previous post/comment from one of my best friends, Kate. Kate is one of the four founding members of Team Voice '09 (a project YOU can join - for more info see Rae's Place (link to your right)). Kate helped me really get started with this when I was struggling at the beginning with this post.

And she's still helping me when I struggle - and I am eternally grateful for it, Kate.

"Will You Run For Me?" by Kate

Will you run for me tomorrow? Will you run for me?

I am six years old now.

I love to dress like a princess.

Mommy says I'm too young to go to Disneyland

She says we will go when I'm older.

I want to be older now.

Will you run for me tomorrow? Will you run for me?

I'm in Kindergarten now and learning to read and write.

I love to run and play with my friends.

It feels as if life will go on forever.

Will you run for me tomorrow? Will you run for me?

I don't know it now, but when I am eight years old I will be diagnosed with leukemia.

Will you run for me?

The cancer treatments are terrible. I don't feel well.

Mommy says the drugs are killing the bad cancer cells.

Will you run for me?

I just want the pain to stop.

I want to feel good and happy again.

Will you run for me?

My daddy said that you will run for me.

He said that you will raise money so that we can go to Disneyland.

Thank you. Thank you for caring about me.

Thank you for letting me be a princess again.

I love you.

A poem by Kate, inspired by Jonathan's courageous journey to the 2009 Walt Disney World half-marathon.

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Who is this lady? Why is she here?

Today's challenge: Identify the lady in this picture - and tell me why she's in my blog. :)

I had a great run this morning - and really am feeling good today about exercise - I enjoyed the running and had great music with me!

Yesterday's meals went according to plan.

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Lean Cusine/Apple/100 cal snack

D: Light Ravioli with Red sauce (Roasted Garlic) and Veggies

Dessert: Skinny Cow

I'm running late for court - so there'll be a longer post tomorrow.

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

309.7

Okay - a few housekeeping things first.

I'm disappointed with my results this week - but they're mostly due to Thanksgiving and such. Since "November" ends on Monday for me (December 3) I have one more week to pull this together - and I'm sure that biologically I'm holding onto a lot of stuff from the holiday that I can get rid of this week with diet and exercise.

Also - since "November" ends on Monday - I'm giving myself three extra days to finish the Raes-for-the-Pace. I think everyone will forgive me - but 70 minutes just wasn't happening this morning - I did 40 at a moderate walk, and was, frankly, pooped out.

I WILL finish my 15 hours, but it'll take me three extra days. You understand, don't you?

Now - MouseFest is SEVEN DAYS AWAY for me - I leave next Monday night - the goal being to have the sponsor letters in the mail before I go - and for us to be packed and ready by the end of the weekend. We even went and bought new luggage.

I'm so excited! Although this morning I can't see past a lot of the disappointment in my results this last week to get to the excitement. It's understandable to have a gain like that occasionally isn't it?

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Oh, Simba, it's to die for...

Good news! In order to complete the Rae's for the Pace - all I have to do is recreate this morning's workout five times!!!

Now the bad news:

In order to complete the Rae's for the Pace - I HAVE TO RECREATE THIS MORNING'S WORKOUT FIVE TIMES!!!!

Oh man am I tired. But hey - 70 minutes and over 4.3 miles (hey Huey).

Now - I've forgotten to do my TAG - so I'll do that here, then yesterday's meals - and then off to meal plan for the next week. Although before I get started, we were at the Disney Store yesterday - have you SEEN their canvas artwork? I adore the Chip n' Dale canvas!

Okay - five facts you might not know about "The Voice":

1) I have a serious aversion to Bananas. Not an allergy - just I can't stand the smell, taste, texture, or anything. Can't even be in the room while Amber eats one.

2) Before going to law school, while getting my political science degree, I worked for 2 years as a professional stand-up comedian on the weekends.

3) I almost got kicked out of the Happiest Place on Earth (WDW, duh) once for accidentally impersonating a park employee. (You'll have to ASK me to tell you this story in person! LOL)

4) I've never crossed an ocean. I've been to Canada, Mexico, and everywhere in-between (including the Caribbean) - but never crossed an ocean. On the bright side, I HAVE been to 49 of 50 of our United States. Still missing Alaska.

5) My favorite daily comic strip happens to be "Get Fuzzy" by Darby Conley.

There ya go! If you want more facts, just ask. :)

Yesterday:

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Half Sandwich and cup of Soup at Claim Jumper

D: WW Pasta Fagioli

Dessert: WW Cookie Dough Sundae. :)

MAIN STREET AWAITS!!!

Seventy

So  I've been emulating my good friend Piglet these last two days. Cleaning house, and eating food.

I'm reminded by how I felt YESTERDAY why I don't eat like that anymore. Granted - I didn't do badly - I had a small serving of Turkey, Potatoes, Casserole, and one small slice of pie...but the Stuffing...oh man the stuffing was my downfall - two medium servings. 

And then last night's dinner - no protein at all - leftover stuffing, and leftover celery and olive salad.

I'm quite sure I'll post a gain this week - but the question is - can I limit it?

Not with a run like today - sheesh. Legs were achy. Tummy was upset. I did what I could.

But now - here's the good news. Why is this post called Seventy?

That number has two significant goals attached to it. And I'm still striving for them.

Goal One: By Monday December 3rd, I will do everything in my power to post a 70 pound loss overall. (Strict food intake, good exercise daily - and don't worry - the 20 isn't all I'm doing today - we're going mall walking! LOL)

Goal Two: To complete the Rae's for the Pace I must exercise for SEVENTY minutes each day between now and November 30th.

And do so I shall. And Goal Two will create Goal One and vice versa.

This holiday is past - and I have a Disney trip to look fabulous for! I have a little over ONE WEEK to push for that last minute lunge! WHO'S WITH ME?!!?!?

MAIN STREET AWAITS!!!!

Giving Thanks

Today is Thanksgiving, and today I am Thankful for all of you.

I'm thankful that I got up and ran (albeit at 4am - I have traditions to uphold here)

What traditions, you ask?

I get up early on Thanksgiving - and make coffee and get breakfast for Amber - then while she snoozes, I start setting up the holiday decorations, except trimming the tree. 

I wake her at 8:30 and we watch the parade and decorate the tree and eat breakfast.

Also today I'll be cooking my grandmother's famous pepperoni stuffing to bring to my friend Mark's house, along with our traditional Thanksgiving Celery and Olive salad.

And my plan for today?

Enjoy the holiday - stick with traditions (breakfast will involve a doughnut or two) - but in moderation (usually involves a DOZEN or two).

And you? Please just remember to be thankful for everything you have - and for everything we do for one another. 

I know I am.

And fear not, Kate - I'll post my TAG tomorrow. ;)

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Courage

"All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney

This quote sits on the piece of artwork in my exercise room donated by Tim Devine. This morning it seems particularly relevant. See - I did a shorter workout this morning after a slight deviation from my meal plan yesterday.

It was a very odd day. First - Amber hurt herself at work.  She's okay - but slightly twisted her hip, and is taking a few days to recover before the trip. And then I kicked the bedframe after recording and took a huge gash out of my own leg. OW! I'm okay too - but man it hurt!

So both of us were in pain last night, and dinner was late, so we did a quick and easy dinner. It wasn't too bad. 

But this morning, I was tired and still a little achey in the leg. But rather than roll over and go back to sleep - I went to work out ANYWAY.

I know the Rae's for the Pace is almost over, and I have a long way to go. 

I know that sometimes I don't run as hard or fast as I should.

But I also know that I have the courage to keep going - even when it hurts a little. I listen to my body and do the best I can - always. And that courage will get me FAR. It'll get me through the holidays to 2008. It'll get me THROUGH 2008 to Main Street. With you guys.

So the question is: do YOU have the courage to NOT give up in the face of adversity? 

Are you still with me?

Then let's show the world how much courage we really have!

Yesterday's meals:

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Lean Cusine only

Snack: Clif Bar

D: Boiled Orzo with Margarine and Cheese

Dessert: Skinny Cow (a WONDERFUL low fat, low calorie dessert brand made by Dryer's Ice Cream - they're GREAT!)

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

304.9

Now we're talking!!!

3.1 pounds last week! Another good 30 minute workout this morning! Four inches off the waist! And a picture of Elliot! (Doc Terminus, this one's for you!)

Food is going well - yesterday:

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Soup/Sandwich

D: Light Cheese Ravoili w/ Sauce

No dessert. :)

And MouseFest is getting closer and closer! Although I have to give a shoutout today to one of my fellow bloggers, and good friends, Jeff W. over at Snowy Tundra Training (see links to your right).

Jeff has a post from a few days ago giving credit to our quests to not only me, but Lou, Mike, and Walt himself!!! How humbling is THAT company?!?!

Please go give him, and anyone else who's blogs I link to a read - they're wonderful people, great supporters, and frankly - some of the most wonderful friends I've ever known. :)

MouseFest Plans: Sunday December 9

7:30: Breakfast - Chef Mickey's Fun Time Buffet

11:00: DSI (Disney Scene Investigation) - possibly

1:00pm: TRIVIAFEST 2007!

2:00pm: MouseGuestWeekly/MagicalDefinition Pirates of the Carribean Meet

3:00pm: LTAD's Hillbilly Hill Climb

4:15pm: Windowtothemagic's Great Grizzly Hunt

6:40pm: Dinner - Whispering Canyon Cafe

8:30ish - Downtown Disney? Adventurers Club?

That's it folks - we're only 14 days away from leaving! YEAH!!!!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

FOUR!!!!!!

So what is the significance of the number four?

Glad you asked. First of all - an explanation - this morning I did 30 minutes and about 1.6 miles this morning - the legs were still a little sore from yesterday, AND we went shopping yesterday and I bought a new pair of running shoes - so I tried them out this morning to break them in. 30 minutes was about all my feet were going to take in the new shoes on the first day - but they feel good - and I'm sure they'll be ready before MouseFest. I'm alternating days of shoes.

Meals yesterday:

B: Scrambled Eggs/Bagel

L: Starbucks Thai Chicken Wrap (approx. 7-8 points)

D: Chicken Fajitas (homemade - 98% fat free tortillas, peppers, chicken breast, onions)

Dessert: 100 cal ice cream cup

So - now - what's the deal with the "Four"?

We went shopping yesterday, as I said, and one thing I've needed for a little while was some new bluejeans - and since we have the trip coming up - I figured yesterday was the day.

I've lost FOUR INCHES off my waist. I went from a 52 (started closer to a 54-56) to a 48. 

The last time I was a 48 I was in LAW SCHOOL.

The last time I was a 44 I was in HIGH SCHOOL.

That's the next goal. 44inches.

So - that being said - I'm VERY happy with my progress - and my new jeans - frankly - look GREAT on me! :)

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

It's GETTING CLOSER!!!

Have you received your official MouseFest registrants packet?

We did yesterday - and man oh man, to quote my co-host, I am STOKED!

How cool is that pocket guide? Those namebadges? Wow. And it's only like 19 days away!!!

Okay - before I get all MouseFesty on you - here's the update:

Did 60 minutes today for 3.701 miles (16.2 minutes/mile) - Heyya Huey! :)

Yesterday's meals - we had a date night, so a slight indulgence at dinner:

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Half white meat chicken sandwich on wheat/cup of tomato basil soup

D: Cheesecake Factory Cobb Salad and we shared a piece of cheesecake.

No snacks at all. And then I followed it up with a massive run this morning. :)

Okay - MOUSEFEST! Plans for DECEMBER 8:

Early morning: Kate (and anyone else) and I are doing a run/walk AROUND Crescent lake at the BoardWalk Inn.

10:30: Pin Trading Meet at the Swan/Dolphin (maybe)

11:00: BEACHES AND CREAM KITCHEN SINK MEET!!!!

12:00-3:30: Mega Mouse Meet - Swan/Dolphin

8:00: DisneyWorldTrivia.com Family Reunion and Illuminations Meet - Torii Gate/Japan

I am SO excited about this guys - I can't even begin to tell you!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Support Group Shout-Out

Okay - first - before we get to today's topic - I did 25 minutes this morning - and had a good run - the heartrate was up - and stayed up for 20 of 25. Tomorrow will be at least 30 - and I plan on trying for TWO hours this weekend.

Yesterday's meals:

B: Cereal/Bagel

Midmorning Snack: 100 Cal Kudos

L: 0 point soup, apple, 100 cal yogurt, 100 cal kudos

Afternoon Snack: 100 cal snackpack

D: Fettucine with LIGHT Alfredo Sauce

Dessert: Skinny Cow

Probably an extra snack in there or two - but on the whole not bad since my lunch had VERY few points. 

Now - we are rapidly approaching Thanksgiving (in fact, it's ONE week away). And today I'm thankful for all of you. Yes - you. Reading this right now. Believing in me. But I wanted to give some special mentions today - and introduce those of you who might be newer to my blog to the creme de la creme of my world.

Amber: How could I not start here? My beautiful wife, who constantly supports me, loves me, gently nudges me in the right direction, and always reminds me of a very important fact. She reminded me of what my true "motivation" was. See - getting healthy is all fine and good - but if that were my sole motivation, I would have gotten healthy long time ago. It's this quest. The run - and more importantly - the charity. Helping the kids. Inspiring others. That is what pushed me further and harder than any other motivation. 

Lou: The man who started it all. Talk about inspiration. Lou is a testament to having adversity in his way, and refusing to give up - and when Lou crosses the finish line in 2008, it will truly re-inspire all of us to push harder and further.

Bryan: My cohort in crime. Always checking in on the blog, the exercise potential, and just making me laugh every week. Bryan's 2008 run will help me prepare for my 2009.

Scopa: Ah the venerable, wise, Doctor Scopa. I can't thank him enough - but it seems hollow. Like Luke Skywalker thanking Yoda.

Kate: Ah Kate. My own personal Jimminy Cricket. You are always there to remind me when I'm getting off track - to suggest ways to get back on track - and to cheer me on when I start overcoming hills. How can I ever thank you enough for "Will you Run for me?" I can't. I can just strive to make you proud.

Rae: The other half of the Kate and Rae dynamic duo. You go out there and push yourself just as hard as you can - because, as you've said, "Disney people don't give up." You remind me of that constantly, and together, our journeys have brought us to this point - two and a half weeks before MouseFest. I am honored that you want to get to know me and Amber better - and will do everything I can at MouseFest and beyond to let ALL of you become a part of my life in a larger sense.

Jeff W: Snowy Tundra Training? You crack me up, man. And you are the keeper of the almighty spreadsheet. You are the one who VISUALLY shows me what I've been able to do. And reminds me that even a small step of progress, is a step nonetheless in the grand scheme. And your intros keep getting better and better. ;)

Byron: The Phat Disney Geek. You, my friend, are my competition. :) You are the one I know who is closest to my weight, and closest to my challenges. And we push each other harder the more we push ourselves. Together you and I are going to make a HUGE difference in this world, and in our own lives. Thank you for even thinking that I had anything to do with your decision to create magic of your own.

GMarie: My work Jimminy. "How much water have you had today, Jonathan?" That simple question is probably more helpful in the long run than most. GMarie is my office manager, my weight watchers buddy, and occasionally my 'butt-kicker' when I need it. GMarie is always ready to call a spade a spade, and when she does she's usually right. Keep it up, G. I need you too.

And the countless other sponsors, mousekattorneys, Allaboutthemousekateers, friends, family members and everyone who is supporting me. 

I honestly love each and every one of you - and could NOT do this without you. 

MouseFest Plans - December 7:

7:30 - breakfast at the boardwalk concierge

9:15 - Kilimanjaro Safari meet

10:00 - Expedition Everest meet

noonish - head to MGM

2:00 - Star Tours Meet

3:00 - PODFEST!

4:20 - Dinner at the 50s Prime Time

6:00 - the ROCKIN MOUSE MEET!!!!!

9:00 - Yeahaa Bob Meet (With Paul from WTTM)

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

On Support and Training

Much has been made over the last few days of my schedule and my time and my progress. And I feel the need to address some of the issues, and perhaps give everyone a peek into some future plans. 

But first - as promised - here are YESTERDAY's meals:

B: Cereal/Bagel

Midmorning: 100 cal Kudos bar

L: Leftover WW Pizza, Apple, 100 cal Kudos bar

D: Lean 1/4 pound hamburger, WW Steak Fries, Veggies

Dessert: Lite (60cal per serving) Jello Pudding w/ Cool Whip Free

Nothing I didn't pack in the morning went in. :) That's a first for a few weeks, now. So that's on the right track.

Now - let's discuss the rest.

Time: I am a busy guy. There's no denying it. And I've already assessed that situation and poised myself to have MORE free time in the new year, by giving up a few commitments. But with the job I have, and my devotion to my family and the podcast, I'll always be busy. The key for me is to find balance, and so far - I think I'm doing okay with that. I have my stumbles, like everyone, but look how far I've come. I will not let my health fall to the wayside - that is a promise.

Support: Yes - you guys are "out there" - and I'm in here. But I have support here too. (Oh - side note - I haven't lived in Redmond in quite some time, so I've updated my location. LOL) My co-workers all read my blog - and all remind me to drink extra water and other things throughout the day. Many of my sponsors are local attorneys who comment on how good I look in court. And of course, Amber - who is frankly, my guardian angel.

Trainers: I plan on consulting a personal trainer, and even changing my exercise routine once 2008 starts. This has been in the works for some time. To start now though would be awkward with holidays and travel plans (MouseFest, and a trip to see Family in early January). Until then, I'll keep with the formula, and keep working hard.

MouseFest Exercise: I plan on walking/running Crescent Lake several times, although it was brought to my attention that getting up early every morning as I do at home might not be possible, or conducive to my vacation and touring plans. We might have some late nights. So what I suggest, Kate, and anyone else, is this: Let's pick maybe 2 mornings where there's nothing late late late the night before or that night, if we can, so we can get up early and make the most of it. And fear not, friends - I'll be exercising at WDW BEFORE and AFTER MouseFest is over. :)

And speaking of MouseFest:

Here are our plans for Thursday December 6th:

7:30 - Breakfast at 'Ohana

We'll spend the morning roaming the Magic Kingdom and do a quick service lunch.

1:00 - MouseFest 101 Meet

2:00 - Chairman's Kickoff

3:00 - Scopa's Dole Whip Meet

5:00 - We might go to the Magic in Pixel's Photo meet

5:45 - Cinderella Castle Lighting

Something small for dinner at quick service.

7:00 - Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party - including the 9:00 Fireworks meet, the 9:30 Small World Meet, the 10:45 Parade Mingle, and if we can swing it - a midnight ride on Splash Mountain!

How's THAT for a day's worth of fun? :) 

And FYI - foodwise, Amber's already agreed to help me - I'm going to do what I did on my other vacations - make good choices, and really try not to sweat it. 

Okay guys - until tomorrow (when I'll have more exercise to post)!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

NOT Just LION Around!

So yesterday I was called to task in an e-mail from my good friend, and soon to be MouseFest Buddy, Kate.

Kate wondered why my weight loss has slowed lately. She suggested there might be a medical problem and upon my response that I seriously doubted it, and that likely what was happening was that although I've been REALLY kicking up the exercise a notch (although this morning's short run is accounted for by the fact that I have to leave VERY soon for an early court date) - and been PLANNING good food intake - I haven't been rigidly sticking to the plan. Extra snacks here, a deviation in recipe there, and boom - slow progress.

Kate then suggested perhaps a support group to help me stick to the plan - reminding me, rightfully so, that although this is a journey about a race - it's foremost a journey about health and saving a life. She suggested I research some of the health problems I could develop.

Those are great suggestions, but unnecessary - and here's why.

I already have the knowledge of the health problems - my parents have every risk factor associated with weight you could imagine - including bypass surgery at 55 for my dad, type 2 diabetes, colitis, chrone's disease, hypertension, and the list goes on.

I know what awaits me should I fail. But as long as I'm making progress, I don't see failure as an option. 

But more importantly - I don't need a support group...or rather I should say, I ALREADY HAVE ONE. You guys. Kate, Rae, Jeff, Bryan, Broccoflower, EVERYONE. You guys are what keeps me going, and keeps me honest.

And speaking of honesty - starting tomorrow, instead of posting what I PLAN TO EAT TODAY - I will post WHAT I ATE YESTERDAY - in all it's glory - without anything left out. At least for awhile until I get back into the swing of either accounting for it - or NOT having it - whatever IT is. :)

And speaking of plans - Kate also worried about the holidays and the trip. And she's right to worry - I have a policy about holidays and trips that you're aware of if you've been here long enough. I don't stress the food - but thus far - I've done okay with them. Vegas, Maui, etc.

And I plan to keep doing so. I plan to ENJOY the holidays, but enjoy them healthily - making good choices along the way - and keeping up the exercise - and during MouseFest - same deal - and walking Crescent Lake (I think that's the lake around the BoardWalk) every morning - maybe even jogging it. :)

What do you say to that?? :)

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

308.0

Alright - down another approximately one pound. This, I think, is mostly due to a minor deviation on Saturday with dinner - but can easily be overcome this week. I think we'll have  a GREAT number to post on next Monday.

And speaking of numbers - how about that sponsorship total? $1500+!! We are OVER ONE QUARTER OF THE WAY to one wish.

We will grant a wish. Together.

I have a lot of fun stuff to do today, with my day off - including sending out sponsor letters - updating iTunes and playing with the new computer - so I'm going to get to that right after a quick MouseFest update.

The plan for Days one and two (which will be further detailed later) are: 

Day one (December 4): we arrive at 7:30am at the airport. Since we can't check in until 3:00pm, we'll likely hit the Animal Kingdom and/or Downtown Disney. Smaller areas that we can deal with since we'll be exhausted. We'll check in and likely turn in early.

Day two (December 5): since we have dinner at the California Grill, we'll likely FINISH the day with resort hopping around the monorail to see the decorations. Who knows how we'll start the day.

These plans are all tentative until we plan a little more solidly...but so far so good. :)

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Sandwich/Soup

D: WW Boboli Pizza

Dessert: 100 cal Cookies and Cream cup.

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

How Do Ya Like Me Now?!

Booyeah! (Yes, I just said Booyeah. Deal with it.)

Yesterday's comments inspired me greatly - and Kate, my good friend, decided to tell me I wasn't working up to my potential.

So this morning I pushed harder.

And how's FOUR MILES in SIXTY ONE MINUTES?

Now - finishing it was an experience - I was definitely tired afterwards. A teensy bit lightheaded. Not too out of breath - but VERY thirsty. I didn't have water with me, which was stupid, so I guzzled lots afterwards - took a nice shower, and relaxed a bit.

I don't know if I can repeat this daily yet - but I think I can definitely repeat it weekly, if not twice weekly.

We'll see how my legs feel tomorrow before I decide that - but I think that with a year to go until the race, and me rapidly approaching the 299 mark - this is a great milestone! Hey Jeff W - get that Dewey medal ready!

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Sandwich/Soup

D: Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, etc - and veggie.

Dessert: Skinny Cow or Smart Pop

Tomorrow: weigh-in and MOUSEFEST planning!

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

The Road is Winding

...and long. But we will overcome it. 

Today - my longest run of the month - 45 minutes and 2.5 miles. That was mostly walking. Tomorrow I shoot for an hour - and mostly jogging. Let's see what I can REALLY do!

Things are looking up here at the AATM Studios West. Nice new computer - weight loss progressing nicely - less than 25 days until MouseFest - got my CafePress order stuff - which looks GREAT, by the way.

And hey - www.disneygallery.com should have pictures of the newest piece of exclusive in-park artwork at MGM Studios - "Part of your World" due for release on December 15th. It looks GREAT - it'll be a great addition to my "ink and paint" collection - if we get it.

And why not?

Okay guys - time to cut this short and go finish out this week's AATM so you guys can have it - I'm glad you guys are waiting with such baited breath - trust me - it'll be worth the wait!

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Soup/Sandwich

D: ??? (chicken perhaps?)

Dessert: Skinny Cow if desired

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2 Down! 13 to go!

Okay - as you'll hear when AATM goes live this week (which will be delayed until Sunday due to some technical difficulties that are really nobody's fault) - thirteen is a daunting number. But it's not so bad when you break it up.

Thirteen is the number of hours I have left for myself to exercise this month. I set a goal, and I'm GOING to hit it - and I'm going to start with a minimum of 45 minutes Saturday, Sunday, and Monday this weekend - since I have a long one.

I did another 25 minutes this morning, for another 1.5+ miles. Which is a good morning wakeup call, but I don't want my body to start to get complacent. I have to keep going - and kick it up a notch or two.

Meanwhile, sponsor letters from Sept/Oct WILL GO OUT Tuesday for sure. I'm going to make that a project on my day off: getting sponsorships set up on the iMac. Also doing a bunch of other stuff, but that's a high priority project.

Tonight is poker - and tomorrow it's Saturday at last!

Days until I leave for MouseFest: 24!

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Half sandwich and soup from the lunch counter at my seminar.

D: WW Soup and leftover WW Pizza - apple, too.

Dessert: Smart Pop 94% popcorn.

Okay - say it with me:

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A Quick Hello

Okay - I'm posting early because I have to leave early. I have a long drive to go interview a witness in a case I'm working on.

HOWEVER - I did manage to get my butt out of bed this morning for a 25 minute run. For me to hit my 15 hours, I'm going to have to kick this up a notch or two...but we'll get there this weekend, and throughout the next weeks.

Two quick updates: 1) Rae asked for my plans on the day of the Mega Mouse Meet. Starting next week, I'll be giving you my plans for the ENTIRE MouseFest! So stay tuned!!! 

2) Rae also asked if she could switch up her sponsorship - and of course she can! Now Rae is sponsoring me at $.50 per mile that I run each month. That started for her in November. And this goes for all my wonderful sponsors - if you want to change things up - just tell me when and how - and you got it! :)

Have a great day!

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Lean Cusine/Yogurt/Apple/60 cal pudding snack

D: WW Boboli Pizza :)

Dessert: Skinny Cow if any (eating late, since I'm recording AATM tonight)

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

King of Pride Rock

Happy Election Day! I hope you all do your civic duty and go out and vote today! Okay - end of public service announcement. :)

Already did 30 minutes this morning - and you'll see my morning numbers are increasing - 22 - 25 - 30 - shall we shoot for 40 tomorrow? I think that 40 might be the max on your average workday - but this weekend, I think I'm trying for that full hour, at least once.

So - what would you guys like to know about my MouseFest plans? You know where I'm staying and where we're eating. Do you want to know what meets we plan on doing? What we plan on doing on our off days? What information would YOU like?

And for that matter - what are YOU planning for your MouseFest trip?

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: Soup/Apple/Yogurt

D: WW Sloppy Joe/Veggie

Dessert: Skinny Cow

Oh - and for anyone who may or may not have had audio problems with me on this weeks AATM - tonight I should be working with Paul Barrie himself to get the new iMac settings so crisp and golden, it'll sound like I'm right in your room with you. :) 

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308.9

Well - it's not a gain! It's a small loss, but a loss nonetheless. I was able to counteract the effects of PF Changs quite nicely, I might add. :)

And, as you can see, the pictures are back! This was one of my favorite moments at Disneyland - finally meeting my favorite Duck - DONALD! We went our entire honeymoon, and almost NEVER saw him at WDW in the flesh...er...feathers, so to speak. But there he was on Main Street at Disneyland.

Can you believe we're 30 days away from being in WDW? How cool is that?!?! Have you registered for MouseFest yet? www.mousefest.org - I think the registration is over, but that they're allowing late registrants for a short while...get your nametag!! And register as an AATM community member! Show your support, All About the Mousekateers!

I'll be keeping my MouseFest planning posts coming, as we get closer and closer - but for now - how about just a question - if you're here - are you coming to MouseFest? If you are - are you doing the Christmas Party on the 6th? Rockin' Mouse Meet on the 7th? Kitchen Sink Meet on the 8th?

Projects this week: work on making sure iTunes is full updated with new CDs and accurate so I can get my music lists created; figure out how to use Pages '08 to send out sponsorship letters, play with iPhoto, talk to Bryan and Scopa for this week's AATM.

(edit: This morning I did 25 minutes. The only reason I didn't do a longer run this weekend was the remainder of tummy issues from PF Changs. Fear not - 15 hours will be met this month...and Rae, I started our 15 pound challenge at 315. So I'm down 6.1)

B: Cereal/Bagel

L: 0 Point Soup, Apple, 100 cal yogurt, snack.

D: Oven Fried Chicken, Caesar Salad, Veggie

Dessert: Skinny Cow, if desired

MAIN STREET AWAITS!

Gettin' back on that horse!

It's been a long week. A long hard week.

And as a result, I drifted dangerously close to bad habits. No exercise for the last few days. Last night we went out to dinner (PF Changs) and I had too much food, and this morning my stomach is paying the price...if you've ever had PF Changs, you understand.

But this morning I finally said - that's it - enough. Back on the horse.

Even if I've gained a pound or two back - I'm not giving up - no matter how hard of a week - I haven't worked this hard to give up now!

So this morning started the "Rae's for the Pace!" I name this monthly challenge for my good friend, and sponsor Rae, because she has encouraged me to train for endurance. To get my time up. And because if I can keep true to my goals this month, it will go a long way to reminding her that Disney people don't give up, right Rae?

So what's the goal? It's a time goal this month. Forget distance. Forget pace. Just time.

Although part of the goal is a pace goal. I'm going to attempt to keep my pace at 3.4mph or higher the entire time (except the first and last 2 minutes of every workout).

And by the time November 30th comes around - I challenge myself to have exercised for a minimum of 15 hours, with at least 3 one hour sessions in there.

Who's with me?

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Happy November!!!

No pictures yet, as there aren't any loaded on the new iMac...but so far, I'm having fun with it.

Things are looking better than yesterday - so thanks for bearing with me. I really appreciate it. A lot. For real.

But I do have a lot of work to do with the iMac to get it up to speed. Lots. I have to figure out how to FTP things, for instance. I've already figured out how to record, so I can record AATM tonight - just can't upload the file anywhere yet. LOL

It's going to be a fun weekend, I think. Playing with new stuff is always fun, and we're finally going to attempt to get the office into a configuration we like, and be done with it.

No exercise today - caught up on LOTS of sleep.

Oh - and don't worry - I will do both hill, and outdoor training for the 09 Half. I don't want ANYONE who did the TOT giving up on me for the 09. We're in this together, and as I understand it - there's really only one hill to worry about on the half course. Mike Scopa really did NOT enjoy the TOT 13k, and says it's drastically different from the half.

So no giving up! TEAM VOICE!!

B: Cereal/Bagel
L: Lean Cusine, Apple, snack
D: Pork Chops, whole grain rice, tomatos - in kinda a stew
Dessert: Skinny Cow if wanted.

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