Allies Exercising Across America & Navigating the Holidays/November

[JillianDC]

Hello Allies who've stuck with us and anyone who wants to join us.
to our November challenge!

We are committed to taking care of ourselves: eating right, drinking our water, getting our exercise, and working on our body image! We're logging our exercise miles and working our way across America... and we welcome new members to help us get to L.A. or just to cheer us on. So come on in anytime.

This month is also about navigating our way through the holidays -- enjoying ourselves, but keeping on track and not suffering setbacks that are all-too-common this time of year. This month, we'll get through Thanksgiving together, then get ready for the big ones in December!

We typically weigh in on Mondays and post our exercise daily, but do what you can. Here's how we log our miles: whether you go to the gym, take exercise classes, work out at home, walk vigorously or bike ride outside, or do whatever gets you moving -- 10 minutes = 1 mile. Or you can post your actual mileage per the treadmill, bike, elliptical, etc. For example, if I do floor work and hand weights for 30 minutes, that's 3 miles. If I also do the elliptical and the control panel shows 2 miles, I've done a total workout of 5 miles. We just add our miles to the last person's. It's easy to get the hang of it. You'll see with our subsequent posts.

Please add this to your signature to show your commitment:
[COLOR="DarkOrange"]Proud member of "Allies Exercising Across America & Navigating the Holidays/November" Challenge [/COLOR]

Let's cruise through November and into December in the best shape possible! Here's to a great month ahead!!!

Jillian

[BitsyMay]

Hey Jillian, thanks for getting us off on the right foot in November! The holidays are going to be a big struggle for a lot of us, I look forward to hearing how everyone else is planning on staying on track. I really luck out with Thanksgiving, I don't like stuffing, pie, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce...I pretty much just like the turkey. Chirstmas is another story, but we'll worry about that come December!

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies and happy November!

I got to the gym this morning and will start off our exercise for the month below. I made it through Halloween with no candy, just a little LC chocolate bark that felt like a big treat.

Today, I have a little work to finish, then I'm dropping off a bunch of too-big work clothes for Dress for Success. It's a good feeling on many counts!

Julie: You're lucky you only like the turkey. I, unfortunately, love EVERYTHING that's traditionally part of Thanksgiving and because we're having the holiday at my house, it will be a challenge. My family from NY comes for all their favorite foods, so I'll make them, but I'll have to do some low-carb versions as well. I'm going to search for recipes, but if any of you have suggestions, please let me know. For example, I found a couple of variations on LC pumpkin pie/cheesecake. My dream would be to find a LC stuffing if there's such a thing. Oh and I really need to find a way to make gravy without flour.

Have a great day everyone!

Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Next Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

28 + 5 miles for me today = 33 miles (182 miles to go!)

[speedymagee]

Hi Allies,

I finally have some miles to post. I hauled and stacked wood for an hour today.

We are leaving tomorrow morning for Calgary...again. DH's dad is on the mend and we're ready to get on with things!

Jillian Thanks for getting us started for November. I like the 'navigating the holidays' part of the title. So true, so true! Kudos to you for doing Thanksgiving at your house. Making some LC alternatives sounds like a really great plan.

BitsyMay Christmas is always tough for me too. This year we can get through it without gaining! Have you got any ideas on how to do this? I struggle with my resolve around mid December.

Maryam Thanks for your kind words about my bfl pics! I appreciated it a lot. What all have you and your parents been up to?

Adam, Sailor, Daisy How's it going?

Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Next Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

33 + 6 miles for me today = 39 miles (176 miles to go!)

[Blondie Baby]

Morning Allies! Can't believe we made it to November and we'restillgoing strong! Yeah US!!!!!!!! Sorry I haven't been real regular with my checkins. Have been very busy with my parents. No workouts for the last 2 days but pushed my Dad all over Abu Dhabi in his wheelchair and believe me, that was a workout!!!!! DBF and I got up early thismorning and went for along run-7 miles. So with that abnd pushing my dad around the parks and malls, I'm adding 10 miles!

Kids had a halloween party last night and I indulged in some candy. Mom brought candy corn which is my very favorite!!!

Thankfully the holidays shouldn't be a problem for me. I do all the cooking for Thanskgiving so by the time we eat I'm usually to tired to pigout! And,of course, we don't celebrate Christmas.

Jillian - Thanks for starting the November thread. As always, you are the glue that holds the Allies together!

Sandy - We are heading up to Ras Al Khaimah today to the Souk Al Juma'a (Friday Market). Vendors just set up on the side of the road and you can buy anything from Persian Carpets to Fresh Produce to Pottery to Toys and Clothing!!!!! Then we will stop at the Sharjah Wildlife Park - My Dad loves the place!

Bitsy, Adam, Sailor -

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Next Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

39 + 10 miles for me today = 10 miles (166 miles to go!)

[Blondie Baby]

Morning Allies! DBF and I went for a long run this morning. 14Km. So that plus walking allover the zoo yesterday, I'm posting 10 miles again today.

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Next Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

49 + 10 miles for me today = 59 miles (156 miles to go!)

[warriorscholar]

Hey all,

For personal reasons, for the time being, I'll be dropping out of this challenge group. I have enjoyed my stay here. And I look forward to my triumphant return to this group. It was very nice to meet all of you.

Cheers,

[Blondie Baby]

Good Morning Allies and Happy Monday. No workout for me yesterday but I got up this morning and did Step Aerobics and Abs. My mom is busy oacking up all the seashells she found and other stuff she bought. They are leaving tomorrow night. Time flies! I'm really gonnamiss them.

Adam - Really sorry to see you go. I will look forward to your return. Thanks for making the map before you go! Good luck with all your endeavors!

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Next Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

59 + 5 miles for me today = 64 miles (152 miles to go!)

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies,

Sorry I haven't checked in for a few days. I've been busy with social obligations (yay, fun NOT work!) and Saturday was my anniversary, so we had a wonderful weekend-long celebration! I was spoiled with some fabulous new jewelry.

Maryam: I'm glad you had a great visit with your parents. I'm sure you'll be sad when they leave -- is it today? -- but you'll be able to get back to your regular routine. It must be hard living so far apart!

Sandy: Are you in Calgary now? Best of luck and let us know how it's going! Don't worry, we will get through the holdays together!

Adam: Thanks for the map and I hope we'll see you back soon.

Hello Julie, Sailor, Daisy and have a great day!

Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Next Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

64 + 5 miles for me on Saturday + 6 miles today = 75 miles (140 miles to go!)

P.S. I did not weigh in this morning because I overindulged a bit over the weekend with planned treats. I'm back on track today and will weigh in next week.

[Blondie Baby]

Morning Allies! Got up this morning and did CardioBlast and Buns. Heading out now to take Mom and Dad a new park that has a huge aquarium. Sounds like fun. Then tonight we take them back to the airport! Was really wonderful having them here. But time flies by so quickly! I wish they could have stayed through Thanksgiving but it is just so hard for my Dad when he is away from home. I am just praying that we will be able to go visit them in Colorado next summer.

Jillian - I didn't weigh in either. I have been indulging in too many sweets. But your right, I'll be back to my regular routine tomorrow. So I'll be looking for a loss next Monday! OHHHHHHHHH I LOVE new jewelry! Great story - Last time Mom was here she brought my brother's wife an 18kt gold necklace. The clasp broke so she brought it to a jeweler at home to fix it. The sales girl at the shop kept insisting that it could not possible be 18kt gold because they didn't sell anything over 14kt. The shop owner heard my SIL tell her she didn't get it from their shop, it was from UAE. The shop owner told the sales girl - If she got it in UAE, it's AT LEAST 18kt!!!!!!! That's nice jewelry! What little gold I have is 22kt!

Sandy - Hope your getting settled in and all is well! Have you decided on your next challenge?

Sailor, Bitsy, Daisy - Thinking of u all!

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

75 + 5 miles for me today = 80 miles (135 miles to go!)

[BitsyMay]

Hello Allies, sorry I've been missing for a little while. I am still kicking butt at the gym, just not posting it here like I should. I hope you guys are all doing well. I am about as sore as a body can possibly be, it seems like every muscle in my body is aching right now. I am still trying to get used to my new resistance program at the gym and right now my butt muscles are on fire! I might take today off from the gym, although I was thinking that a nice long, non strenuous walk might help losen my muscles up, we'll have to wait and see on that. It's a really gray, rainy day here in Mass, and it would be nice to just say in my pajamas and watch tv!

I'll be back later to post my miles, I've got to add it all up and I am definitely going to need a cup of coffee before I do that!

Have a great day everyone.

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies,

I hope you're all doing well. I'm feeling a little bloated and lethargic today. I'm having a transition problem with the colder weather. I'm really a warm weather girl, so this is not pleasant for me -- and it's just the beginning of things to come. Still, I managed to drag myself to the gym and get some work done. DH and I are going to Cabo, in the Baja Peninsula in December, so I'll try to focus on that!

Julie: How's your butt feeling? I hope you've given yourself a little recovery time. Don't forget to post your miles -- it sounds like you'll get us far along!

Maryam: Great story about the gold! I love jewelry, too, and DH's father is in the jewelry business, so he's able to get me a lot of fabulous pieces at a good price. But I sure would love to see what you have there!

Sandy, Sailor, Daisy: Drop in when you have a chance.

See you soon...

Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

80 + 6 miles for me today = 86 miles (129 miles to go!)

[BitsyMay]

Hello Allies, hope you are all doing well. My butt is still actually a little sore, ugh I hope it will be feeling better tomorrow. I'm at work now so I can't stay for long but I wanted to post my miles.

Take care everyone!

Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

86 + 20 miles for me the last few days = 106 miles (109 miles to go!)

[speedymagee]

Hi Allies,

It's so quiet around here!

Jillian I hope you adjust to the weather soon. You have a lot less to keep you warm this winter, so maybe you're feeling the cold more! Cabo! Is it for Christmas?

Maryam You look awesome in your new avi! You look really lean! Was it hard to see your parents go home?

BitsyMay WTG! You are rocking it at the gym! Did you mention awhile back that you started some new stuff, like Karate? How do you like it?

Adam Sorry to see you go. Good luck to you!

Sailor, Daisy

I am happy to report we found a place! I'm so excited it's silly! We are at dh's parents and have been sorting stuff we stored 10 years ago before we went to Japan!! I have cassettes!!!

I'm back in Calgary tomorrow and expect to be online hopefully Saturday as Monday is Remembrance Day here and everything will be closed (I guess it's a Canadian version of Veteran's Day). At the very latest I will be back and participating by early next week. I miss you gals!

My pants are not feeling as loose as I think they should! I NEED to get on track with portions especially and get a plan for workouts.

Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

106 + 6 miles for me today = 112 miles (103 miles to go!)
__________________

[Blondie Baby]

Good Morning Allies! No workout for me yesterday and I'm not sure if i will manage to get one in today. I have been running around trying to get my car re-registered. MUCH easier to do in the USA!!!! Here if you get traffic fines (radar cameras) or parking tickets ora nything like that, you pay it all when you register your car. I have about 15 parking tickets but since there is virtually NO parking near around my building I am contesting and asking the judge to lower or drop the fines. The judges know the parking problems in this city so they are usually pretty good about at least lowering fines! I did have one that was for parking in front of a fire hydrant (my bad) and one for running a red light (my son when he here for holidays last year) that I paid yesterday. This morning I will finish that up.

Jillian - My Mom took pictures of the gold shops so that is my new avi! It's kinda awesome if you have never seen it before! I hate cold weather! That's why I love living here!

Sandy - So happy to hear you found a place! I'll be glad to have back on a regular basis! Cassettes! - What kind of music? Yes, it's always hard to say goodbye to my folks! Especially now with my Dad's health failing - YKWIM?

Bitsy - Awesome job on the gym! No more jiggly butt for you!!!! What kind of program are you doing?

[Blondie Baby]

Hey Allies! Hope everyone is ok this morning. DBF and I had a long run this morning. Even did about half a mile on the beach - very difficult! The morning weather is lovely! The sun still seems so hot this year. We are still averaging in the mid 90's during the day.

Mom and Dad arrived home safely. Tired but happy. They really had a wonderful time. It would be so nice if traveling wasn't so difficult for them. I get the airline discount for them so I only paid $400 for both of them to fly round trip NY - Abu Dhabi - NY!!!!

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

112 + 8 miles for me today = 120 miles (95 miles to go!)

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies,

I'm back and doing OK! For some reason, I'm just kind of off this week. As I said, it may be due to the colder weather and I feel a little off-track. I'm eating LC, but just too much. I have to crack down on my portion control! Otherwise, all is well.

Maryam: WOW, that gold is amazing!!!!! And I envy your year-round warm weather!

Sandy: Congratulations on finding a place! Sounds like we both have to focus on portions -- ugh! Yes, we're going to Cabo from December 22-30. I can't wait!!!

Julie: Are you able to sit comfortably yet? How's the karate going?

Hi to everyone else. I'm off to find a bday gift for my godson who's turning 16 in a few days. I hope you all have a great weekend! See you soon...

Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

120 + 11 miles for me yesterday and today = 131 miles (84 miles to go!)
__________________

[BitsyMay]

Hello Allies! How are you all doing? Things here are going good, I have now lost over 30lbs, so I am pretty darn pleased with myself. People are starting to comment on my thinner body, so it makes it all the more rewarding!

Jillian, my butt has finally recovered, I swear it felt like I had a sunburn on the inside of my bum, that's the only thing I can think of to describe it! Karate is good, I am going to have to miss next week because I am going up to New Hampshire on Monday. They're going to credit me a week though, so it's all good.

Maryam, I am doing 11 new exercises. I am doing this thing that I lay on my stomach and lift a weight bar up with my legs until it touches my butt. I do backward lunges(this is what caused the sunburned bum sensation), I do side leg lifts with resistance, leg adductions, sit-ups, Some thing I really don't even know how to describe...I basically bend my body all they way down from the waist while holding a 10lb weight and then come back up, I do this while leaning against a piece of equiptment that holds me in place, chest presses, lateral raises, tricep kickbacks and dumbell curls and back extentions. This whole thing is really kicking my butt, but if it works it's worth it!

I have really kicked up my cardio this past week too. I now do 1 whole hour 3-4 times a week and I don't let the incline go lower than 2% and I take it as far up as 10%, granted I don't stay there very long. I try to keep my speed at 3.8, but I do bring it down to 3.6 at times.

Sandy, I'm glad you hear you found a place, I am sure you'll be glad to get settled in!

Well, I am going to log my miles and get back to work, take care everyone!

Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

131 + 4 miles for me today = 135 miles (79 miles to go!)

[JillianDC]

Hi everyone and happy Saturday!

I'm heading to the gym shortly, then meeting a friend to go shopping for boots. I want some nice brown ones since I have several pairs in black. I may also look for a new coat. Retail therapy should do me some good!

Have a great day and I'll be back later or tomorrow to post my miles.

[Blondie Baby]

Hey Allies! No mileage to report but wanted to say to everyone. DBF and I both felt tired yesterday morning so we decided to take a day off from running. Since he did PT at work this morning, I will do aerobics when I get home. They made a new rule at his unit. He was doing PT 4 days a week but now they say he is only allowed to do 2 days a week. So on the days he doesn't do PT we will run in the evenings.

I have to complain about this - You all have seen pictures of DBF. He most certainly is NOT fat! Yet when I did his BMI on this very site, it says he is overweight!!!!!!! How is that possible? He is 5'11" and 190lbs of solid muscle!!!! I didn't even show it to him!

On a brighter note, youngest DD arrived home from school Thursday with a note - she is being placed in the GIFTED class! I'm so proud of her. I always knew I was an awesome Mom but raising a GIFTED child??? Just kidding. I am darn proud of her. It is quite an accomplishment to be placed in the GIFTED class in the first place - but more so in her case - she goes to school to school in a different language than her mother tongue.

[BitsyMay]

Hello Allies! Hope you all had a great weekend. I am at work as I was yesterday, so my weekend starts tomorrow! I have the next 4 days which I am really looking forward to.

My workout is still kicking my butt. Ugh, I did weights again yesterday and my legs are so sore. The back of my left thigh feels really tight and I feel like I can't extend it all the way...not sure if I didn't stretch well enough after or what. It could also be because I increased my cardio a lot. I'm going to ask my trainer what she thinks if I see her at the gym tomorrow. I am used to sore muscles, but this feels different.

Maryam, that is fantastic about your DD. My Niece is gifted and it is just amazing what goes on in these kids heads. Seriously, she is frighteningly smart, however she has a tough time with some of the simplest tasks because she so distracted by all the stuff going on in her head.....it's not easy to remember to make sure your clothes match when you're busy doing calculus in your head! My sister jokes that she'll get into Harvard, but she'll have to have my sister get her dressed and drive her there everyday!

Jillian, did you find a nice pair of boots? I need to get some too, I'm going to be doing some outlet shopping in New Hampshire next week so we'll see what I find.

Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

135 + 9 miles for me today = 144 miles (70 miles to go!)

[Blondie Baby]

Good Morning Allies! Had a great workout yesterday after work. Tonight I will be going running with DBF. The weather is really lovely lately. The humidity is way down so it should be very nice for running!

Weighed in this morning. Weight is still up a few pounds but I expected that. now that I am back to my regular exercise and eating routine, i'll be dropping again soon!

Looks like I need to start deciding what our stop will be. We are almost in North Platte. Do you realize we have made it more than halfway across America!!!!!!!!! for us!!!!!!

Jillian - Hope you found the perfect boots! I love boots but it is just too warm here to wear them very often!

Bitsy - Your workouts sound intense! But, I would have that leg checked if it keeps bothering you. You might have pulled a muscle or something. My DD is sooooooooooooo not like most gifted kids that I have known. She is very fashion conscious, she is Miss Popularity and you just wouldn't figure her for one of the smart girls. But she is a gifted pianist and her memory is almost photographic. Talk about the best of both worlds!

Sandy - Hope you are settling in and get back here soon!

Sailor - Just thinking of you and sending you good vibes

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

144 + 5 miles for me yesterday = 149 miles (65 miles to go!)

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies... and so another week begins!

I had a good weekend, including my boot shopping where I bought two new pairs -- they're beautiful tall (just below the knee) leather boots with low-heels so they're comfortable to walk in, but look very stylish. I couldn't decide between the dark brown and the medium tan, so I ended up buying both. Because I already have several pairs of black boots, now I'm all set for the season!

I got to the gym this morning and weighed in. I'm holding steady at 143, which is OK since I thought I might have gained. I sure would like to knock off those darn 3 lbs to make my next goal!!! I know, I'll get there eventually! I really need to rev up my routine again. I've gotten a little loose with it and that's not good.

Maryam: That's great news about your DD! You should be very proud. She sounds like an incredible (and accomplished) person. WOW, we're more than halfway across the country? We are awesome!!!

Julie: I hope you're feeling better. When I did a personal training session last year, I really overdid it and was extremely sore in my butt and thighs for days. I literally could not sit down without excruciating pain. I've been much more careful ever since. I hope your feeling good for your outlet shopping. I'm sure you'll find some great stuff -- don't forget to report back!

Hi Sandy and Sailor. I hope you're both doing well and will be able to check in soon.

Allies Exercising From New York to LA - 2462 miles
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

149 + 4 miles for me Saturday + 6 today = 159 miles (55 miles to go!)

[Blondie Baby]

Good Morning Allies! Ended up doing Step Reebok yesterday instead of running with DBF. But, that's ok. I still got in a good workout! I hadn't done Step Reebok - The Power Workout, since before Ramadan and now my calves are sore and since I use handweights, my shoulders are sore and across my back I'm feeling is too! This afternoon I'm planning on doing Cardiblast and Lower body.

I have made a decision to cut out all sugar from our diet. I'm also cutting out as much processed carbs as possible from my kids diets. Myself, I'm trying to do NO processed carbs. I have been reading Gary Taubes book, Good Calories, Bad Calories. It is scary what the health authorities have known for years about the affects of carbs and fat on our bodies and yet have continued to advocate a low fat, HIGH CARB diet. It is literally killing us! I am also becoming convinced that the sugar and carbs my have something to do with my ds behaviour problems - they aren't BAD kids they just driving you nuts because they bounce off the walls! The only time they don't drive all of us crazy is the days they have football after school! I'll be sure to report back with any progress or observations.

I calculated our mileagetoday. We have already traveled 1503 mile!!!!! WE ROCK!!! We need to keep up our motivation, because we are heading into some rough country! Gotta get over those Rocky Mountains!!!!!

Jillian - So glad you found 2 great pairs of boots! With your new body, you will want to be fashionable this winter!!!!

Bitsy - How's your leg today? Did you have it checked?

Sandy and Sailor -

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

199 + 4 miles for me yesterday = 163 miles (51 miles to go!)

[BitsyMay]

Good Morning Allies, boy is it cold up in New Hampshire! I actually woke up at 4:00 AM because I was so cold and now I can't fall back to sleep. I talked to my trainer yesterday about my leg and she said it's my hamstring. She said to rest it and take ibuprophen. She also said I could put heat on it since it's been over 48 hours since I injured it, I guess you are supposed to use ice the 1st 48 hours. I got one of those heat wrap things for your back and just wrapped it around my thigh and I think it feels a little better. It's good that I will be up here for a few days so I can give it a rest from the gym.

I think I figured out a good way to deal with the holidays. I heard this on a radio program and it just made sense to me. Figure out how many calories/carbs/fat you allow youself a week. I personally really only count calories, the carbs and fat just fall into place. So if I allow myself 1400 calories a day, that works out to 9800 a week. If I really wanted to just let go on thanksgiving I could allow myself to go 1000 calories over my normal limit giving me 2400 that day which still keeps me below my active metabolic rate. The rest of the week, meaning the days leading up to and the days after thanksgiving I would need to create enough of a calorie deficit to make up for that day so I could go down to 1200 for 5 days. Now I don't really like thanksgiving food so I doubt I'll have a problem, but I will definitely do this on Christmas and figured I would share it in case you guys wanted to try it.

Jillian that's great you found 2 pair of boots!! I don't like a high heal either and it's not easy to find fashionable ones with a lower heal. I am going to do some Christmas shopping today, but I am going to get a couple things for myself. Seriously none of my clothes fit anymore so I actually need to buy clothes. I went from a size 18 to a 12 in three months so it will be nice to look for clothes in a non embarassing size!

Maryam I am doing the same thing as you diet wise. The last month or so I really cut down on processed crap and went organic. I even managed to cut out splenda this past week which is huge for me because I drink strong coffee. I cut out nitrates as well.

Well, it's 6 AM and I am wide away so I guess I'll go have breakfast. I don't know how much I will be able to post the next few days but I will check in as much as I can.

[speedymagee]

Hi Allies!

Boy am I glad to be back online and at last in our own place! I need some butt kicking and need to be accountable.

I love the neighbourhood so far, but no sign of a gym within walking distance. I NEED a regular workout routine! So I'll keep looking, or maybe there will be a gym near where I end up working? In the mean time I've been walking and cleaning lots so I'll count those miles.

Blondie Go for it with the cutting out sugar!! Keep us posted on the changes you notice in yourself and your kids. I really want to read Good Calories, Bad Calories! I'm going to see if I can't find it today in my travels.

Jillian WTG!! Holding steady is fantastic!! I know you want to lose more, but holding steady til your body decides it's ready to lose is half the battle, for me anyway! Nice job on the boot shopping. Post pics! I love boots! Any ideas on how you're going to change up your workouts?

BitsyMay Hope your leg is getting better. I'm sure a few days rest in New Hampshire will help. Is there much snow yet? Find anything good at the outlets? Congrats on going from an 18 to a 12 in 3 months. New clothes will be a nice treat. Please let us know what you notice with cutting out processed crap from your diet. OH thanks for posting about the calories for the holidays! I will put that bit of info in my tool box!

Have we lost Sailor and Daisy? I know Adam left.
Maybe in December we can get some new recruits!

[COLOR="Red"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

163 + 9 miles for me this past week = 172 miles (42 miles to go!)

[Blondie Baby]

Good Morning Allies and Happy Wednesday! Foggy, foggy morning today. Traffic was slow and everybody was a little late for work! Today is DBF's long day. For some unknown reason, the UAE military decided several years back that Wednesday would be LONG work day. Normally he gets off at 2pm. But on Wednesdays he is suppose to work until 5pm. So a couple years ago several of the guys decided they would have a football (soccer) game on Wednesday afternoons. Since they are now only allowing DBF to go to PT 2 days a week, he has decided he will join the football game!

My mom took some pics of me and the kids - minus my eldest ds, who is in VA. That's my new avi.

Good workout yesterday. This afternoon I will do step aerobics and abs.

Jillian - How's the weather in DC?

Bitsy - Glad to hear your leg is getting a rest. Hope it heals and you are back to the gym real soon. If you can. try to take some pics of New Hampshire and post them. It is so beautiful there this time of year!

Sandy - You will enjoy the book. Hope you find it. I ordered it from Amazon.com. I am really learning alot! Glad you've settled in. Have you or DH found work yet?

Sailor and Daisy - and

I've decided our next stop will be Denver - because that is home for me! Its a little farther than normal but should get us through the holidays - 242 miles from North Platte.

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

172 + 4 miles for me yesterday = 176 miles (38 miles to go!)

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies,

I'm glad to see you're all doing well. I'm having some bad cramps with TOM just starting, but I'm pushing through it and working out as hard as possible. I've decided to rev up my workouts my adding more resistance and inclines on the elliptical, bike and treadmill. I'm also trying to do more upper body work. Plus, I'm getting very strict with my portion control. I figure this combo will help leading up to Thanksgiving and afterwards.

Julie: Your plan for the holidays sounds good, but I couldn't do it. I don't count carbs or calories (I lost most of my weight on South Beach), so I just have to stay away from certain foods and watch my portions. But I'll be cheering you on! And I'm SO PORUD of you for going from a size 18 to a 12! What an accomplishment! I hope you find some fabulous new clothes that fit.

Speaking of the holidays, I've been collecting lots of LC recipes and will finalize my Thanksgiving menu this weekend. I feel pretty good that I can make a LC feast and let myself enjoy it. I know my portions will be larger than normal that day, but I won't go crazy and I will get right back on track the next day with smaller portions and exercise. That's my plan.

Maryam: Love the new avi! Funny you should ask about the weather in DC -- it's fairly warm today, but a cold front is coming tomorrow. UGH!!! I have to get some warmer clothes that fit.

Sandy: I'm so happy to see you back! I'll be glad to kick your butt and keep you accountable if you promise to do the same for me. Are you job hunting now? Moving and job hunting are stressful, so cut yourself a little slack. But get in as much exercise as you can at home and outside. When I can't get to the gym, I do a little floor work and hand weights. It's a lot better than nothing.

Have a great day everyone and let's keep it together. Tomorrow is the halfway point in November already -- do you beleive it???? We can do this!!!!

Allies Exercising From New York to LA
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Next Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles

176 + 6 miles for me yesterday + 5 miles today = 187 miles (28 miles to go!)

[Blondie Baby]

Morning Allies! No mileage to post. Just saying hi. Didn't workout yesterday. Had a viscious headache all afternoon. Probably due to TOM. Feeling much better today and planning to get in a good workout. But I won't go overboard cause I KNOW DBF will want to go for a LONG run at 6am tomorrow!!!!!

Jillian - I plan on enjoying Thanksgiving also. Then right back on the LC, NO SUGAR wagon. Hope you find some really cute warm clothes!

Bitsy - Hope the leg is better and you are really enjoying your time in NH!!!!!

Sandy, Sailor - and

[speedymagee]

No workout to report.
I found a city recreation facility about a mile from where I live. It's a possibility. I think I'll wait to see where I end up working. Maybe I can work/workout in the same area.

Hi to everyone.
Happy Thursday!
sandy