I think even Matt is starting to realise that Assassin's Creed is a little repetitive. It still has all of the good bits of the old game. Getting to the point where Ezio is getting old, and the whole game is getting a little old with him. The game seems to be heading in the direction of a final end. Will this be the last of the ACs? Who knows.
I do know that today was weigh in, and despite being utterly convinced that I'd lose nothing this week, I still lost 0.5kg. I'm not displeased, but I'm not super pleased. I guess I had to expect it to slow down at some point, and now I suspect will come the trudge of 1 - 2lb per week until my target. Still, I've signed up for it, and it's working, so I may as well keep going! Clothes are starting to fit that havent for some time, which is good!
Matt has been doing a large amount of what he calls "Beast mode" at the gym lately, and his arms are getting very solid. He lost 1.5kg this week, which is excellent!! Really proud of him!
I am in the process of cooking a chocolate marble tea loaf for pudding for dinner this evening. We have Alex and Catherine coming over. It smells tasty, so I hope it works out as it's the first time I've made one. I, of course, shall have to have as little as possible. I dont want to start another week behind after a weekend.
We (me and Liz) finally managed to cut down the remainder of Poppet's claws last night, so she can walk with ease and it doesnt cause her any fuss. Finally sorted after a long time of being far too long for the poor animal!! She seems much happier in herself as a result - dog nail clipping ftw!
Jim sent me his album in the post with a really amusing letter, asking me to check the vocals as usual. I've had it on the afternoon and at first listen it sounds really accomplished! I have the lyrics sheets to feedback to him with and a deadline. It's like an exciting mini assignment!! If you want to follow Jim on twitter, go to @JamesNighthawk - he has a really cool folky sound on this on, and you can link to his facebook and studio pages and have a listen - I believe that some of our duets are around somewhere so go and have a listen! He's also a great producer if you're looking for one in the Herts/Essex area!
It has been a long week and I'm very tired - here's to a relaxed evening and rest of weekend!!
Off to clean and tidy now.
G out x
Saturday, 28 January 2012
Sunday, 22 January 2012
Baby Monkey....baby Monkey..... Riding on a piiiiig baby monkey
God damn I need to get that song OUT of my head. All day it has been stuck in there.
For those of you who haven't seen it, share my pain by clicking here
Wow, what a busy day! On the face of it, it doesnt seem like it was that much to do but we've literally been non stop today!
Started the morning clearing out the garage. It started as a quest to free two items to take to Marion and Richard, and ended up as a mission. In the end, we cleared the whole thing and now we can actually fit a whole car in it! (not two, but baby steps!) We've also finally listed on ebay the spare fish tank and the Welsh dresser in there, both of which take up a good deal of space. Hopefully we'll get a sale for both and we'll gain some space but if not, we've not lost anything!
Then once we'd finished, we loaded a car load more stuff for the dump and in the process, broke a mirror. Goodness me, what a disaster. I really hope that it doesn't mean seven years bad luck!!
Then I cooked lunch and finished the washing, and Matt hoovered and tidied.
Once we'd tipped the rubbish after lunch, we did our weekly shop in Morrisons (we may have turned from Sainsbury, although they didnt have any Quorn mince. Fail!) filled my car up with diesel and came home. We sat down for 30 minutes, and then went up to Matt's Mum's house for dinner, which was delicious. Then back home, and then straight back out for a walk with the dogs.
On our return, I listed the ebay listings etc and that's the end of a productive, but seemingly hectic day.
Shortly I shall be heading to bed after my chamomile tea. Rock'n'roll, baby.
G out x
For those of you who haven't seen it, share my pain by clicking here
Wow, what a busy day! On the face of it, it doesnt seem like it was that much to do but we've literally been non stop today!
Started the morning clearing out the garage. It started as a quest to free two items to take to Marion and Richard, and ended up as a mission. In the end, we cleared the whole thing and now we can actually fit a whole car in it! (not two, but baby steps!) We've also finally listed on ebay the spare fish tank and the Welsh dresser in there, both of which take up a good deal of space. Hopefully we'll get a sale for both and we'll gain some space but if not, we've not lost anything!
Then once we'd finished, we loaded a car load more stuff for the dump and in the process, broke a mirror. Goodness me, what a disaster. I really hope that it doesn't mean seven years bad luck!!
Then I cooked lunch and finished the washing, and Matt hoovered and tidied.
Once we'd tipped the rubbish after lunch, we did our weekly shop in Morrisons (we may have turned from Sainsbury, although they didnt have any Quorn mince. Fail!) filled my car up with diesel and came home. We sat down for 30 minutes, and then went up to Matt's Mum's house for dinner, which was delicious. Then back home, and then straight back out for a walk with the dogs.
On our return, I listed the ebay listings etc and that's the end of a productive, but seemingly hectic day.
Shortly I shall be heading to bed after my chamomile tea. Rock'n'roll, baby.
G out x
Saturday, 21 January 2012
She packed her hopes and dreams, like a refugee
Weigh in today was unexpected - a loss of 1.6kg, which is much higher than I anticipated. It means that today I got my second weight watchers "star" - a 5% body fat loss! Hooray!
In celebration, we are going to go out to have Thai for our treat night tonight, to the local restaurant called Sala Thai. Very nice from memory, as we went their for Catherine's birthday.
http://www.salathaileeds.co.uk/ if you're interested!
In the interim, I've decided to settle myself down for a rest. We've already been to the gym today and I managed a 600 calorie burn, just over an hour's cardio. My knee is grumbling a little as usual, but a good deal less than it has done of late, and my calves feel like they need a rest. In fact they're sore to the touch. So no gym until Monday now.
Currently, I am sat in our living room, on the sofa, with my feet up on the stool, listening to the Eagles and writing this. It occured to me what a beautiful song "The Last Resort" is again, I always forget until I hear it. It seems to resonate with me strongly, I suppose as a result of the upping sticks and disappearing off to a foreign land (otherwise known as Yorkshire) - granted I've not laid waste to my surrounds, got high in the town or generally oppressed an entire race of people. I think what I am saying is that it has left me in a reflective mood.
Two years ago, if someone had said to me that I'd be living in Leeds with my wonderful other half, in a beautiful house, with a job that I really enjoy and feeling so good about myself and our lives in general, I really just wouldnt have believed it. It would have been just too good to be true. I think that sometimes I forget just how happy I am, and just how unhappy I have been. I really don't celebrate how happy I am enough. I must never take it for granted, and never be afraid that I might lose it. These must be the best years of my life and I must enjoy them, because I cannot dare to hope that they will be better than this.
Sniffle, sniffle. Silly song.
I suppose I'm also in a great mood because I've booked our flights out to see Mum and Dad, and I'm really looking forward to it already! Granted I'll see them in March, and we'll get to take them out to one of our favourite restaurants and they can stay with us a little longer this time which is much more satisfactory, but when we go out to them it feels like a real holiday. And I get to practice my failing French!!
G out x
In celebration, we are going to go out to have Thai for our treat night tonight, to the local restaurant called Sala Thai. Very nice from memory, as we went their for Catherine's birthday.
http://www.salathaileeds.co.uk/ if you're interested!
In the interim, I've decided to settle myself down for a rest. We've already been to the gym today and I managed a 600 calorie burn, just over an hour's cardio. My knee is grumbling a little as usual, but a good deal less than it has done of late, and my calves feel like they need a rest. In fact they're sore to the touch. So no gym until Monday now.
Currently, I am sat in our living room, on the sofa, with my feet up on the stool, listening to the Eagles and writing this. It occured to me what a beautiful song "The Last Resort" is again, I always forget until I hear it. It seems to resonate with me strongly, I suppose as a result of the upping sticks and disappearing off to a foreign land (otherwise known as Yorkshire) - granted I've not laid waste to my surrounds, got high in the town or generally oppressed an entire race of people. I think what I am saying is that it has left me in a reflective mood.
Two years ago, if someone had said to me that I'd be living in Leeds with my wonderful other half, in a beautiful house, with a job that I really enjoy and feeling so good about myself and our lives in general, I really just wouldnt have believed it. It would have been just too good to be true. I think that sometimes I forget just how happy I am, and just how unhappy I have been. I really don't celebrate how happy I am enough. I must never take it for granted, and never be afraid that I might lose it. These must be the best years of my life and I must enjoy them, because I cannot dare to hope that they will be better than this.
Sniffle, sniffle. Silly song.
I suppose I'm also in a great mood because I've booked our flights out to see Mum and Dad, and I'm really looking forward to it already! Granted I'll see them in March, and we'll get to take them out to one of our favourite restaurants and they can stay with us a little longer this time which is much more satisfactory, but when we go out to them it feels like a real holiday. And I get to practice my failing French!!
G out x
Friday, 20 January 2012
Ryanair... REALLY?!?!
So it's Friday. And it's payday. Usually an extremely good combination, I must say. Particularly as my little bonus came through too. After all bills paid, I have about £30. And I've just been interacting with Ryanair.
You understand, that I was driven to this course of action because Matty is playing on the Xbox. It's Assassin's creed again tonight, which is a good deal more preferable than the majority of games in the arsenal. Mostly knife / blade kills, no bullet noise in this particular part of the game. A love of climbing up tall buildings and then throwing the character off. You know, day to day routines.
Back to Ryanair then. The last time I flew with them, I swore solemnly that it would be the last. The insistance on charging for every little detail is infuriating. They are one of two companies going from Leeds / Bradford to Limoges, our chosen destination for a summer parental visit. Jet2 is a far superior airline, but at first glance seemed a good deal more expensive. So I chose my flights for me and Matt, and it came to £200. Deal! Select a bag? Well, we chose one between us, £70 extra. I navigated my way through the various different promotions, remembering each time that Ryanair insists on you clicking "no" and then stopping you, unticking itself and repeatedly asking you to re-select. I assume this is born from the idea that eventually it becomes so frustrating that you GET the damn travel insurance, car hire, bags, text messages, extra blood and a skateboarding badger JUST to shut it up. By the time I'd finished, the journey was £300. OK.... I can live with that. Click!! Ooops, sorry. You've taken too long. Ejected to the front screen. Start again.
Now I'm a patient woman. I'm well known for it. Famed for it. I seem to have more patience than Mother Teressa herself did, in many situations. But I'm close to snapping now. Click, click, click ... a few well placed mutterings and expletives.... click click click... Done. Same flights. £300.
So how would I like to pay? Mastercard please! OK madam, we'd like another £24 then please. Admin fee each way.
ADMIN FEE OF £24?!?! Have I been taking crack, or has the world gone mad?!?! I bet if I went down to the Ryanair head office and personally gave them a pile of cash, they'd charge me for wiping my feet at the door, the 12 paces up to the desk, 1 assault charge, a counting charge, a banking charge and letting me open the door for myself on the way out. That'll be another £64 pounds please madam.
Deep breaths....
So on a lighter note, we had chilli for dinner. I made it with the Scotch Bonnet chilli which was purchased from Morrisons last Saturday. Good Lord, it's a hot chilli. While stirring the food, the smell of it gave me a coughing fit and then a sneezing fit. The cat collapsed and waved his legs in the air in submission. Matt ran into the kitchen, rescued the cat and in the process set off his asthma. The funny thing is, I'm not exaggerating THAT much! A lot of yoghurt (soya) later, it was edible. Just.
Weight wise, I've not had a good week. I dont think I'm going to lose all that much. I've tried very hard, and not eaten anything bad, done all of my weight watchers and been to the gym several times. I'm not disheartened too much though, as today I discovered I've lost 2inches from my waist, 2 from my hips and various other places. I feel slimmer and on my way, and I actually feel a good deal healthier. I sat opposite piles of naughty food today (office birthday) and didnt touch a piece. That would have never happened before.
Well, I'm now back off to look at holidays in Mexico and laser eye surgery.
G out x
You understand, that I was driven to this course of action because Matty is playing on the Xbox. It's Assassin's creed again tonight, which is a good deal more preferable than the majority of games in the arsenal. Mostly knife / blade kills, no bullet noise in this particular part of the game. A love of climbing up tall buildings and then throwing the character off. You know, day to day routines.
Back to Ryanair then. The last time I flew with them, I swore solemnly that it would be the last. The insistance on charging for every little detail is infuriating. They are one of two companies going from Leeds / Bradford to Limoges, our chosen destination for a summer parental visit. Jet2 is a far superior airline, but at first glance seemed a good deal more expensive. So I chose my flights for me and Matt, and it came to £200. Deal! Select a bag? Well, we chose one between us, £70 extra. I navigated my way through the various different promotions, remembering each time that Ryanair insists on you clicking "no" and then stopping you, unticking itself and repeatedly asking you to re-select. I assume this is born from the idea that eventually it becomes so frustrating that you GET the damn travel insurance, car hire, bags, text messages, extra blood and a skateboarding badger JUST to shut it up. By the time I'd finished, the journey was £300. OK.... I can live with that. Click!! Ooops, sorry. You've taken too long. Ejected to the front screen. Start again.
Now I'm a patient woman. I'm well known for it. Famed for it. I seem to have more patience than Mother Teressa herself did, in many situations. But I'm close to snapping now. Click, click, click ... a few well placed mutterings and expletives.... click click click... Done. Same flights. £300.
So how would I like to pay? Mastercard please! OK madam, we'd like another £24 then please. Admin fee each way.
ADMIN FEE OF £24?!?! Have I been taking crack, or has the world gone mad?!?! I bet if I went down to the Ryanair head office and personally gave them a pile of cash, they'd charge me for wiping my feet at the door, the 12 paces up to the desk, 1 assault charge, a counting charge, a banking charge and letting me open the door for myself on the way out. That'll be another £64 pounds please madam.
Deep breaths....
So on a lighter note, we had chilli for dinner. I made it with the Scotch Bonnet chilli which was purchased from Morrisons last Saturday. Good Lord, it's a hot chilli. While stirring the food, the smell of it gave me a coughing fit and then a sneezing fit. The cat collapsed and waved his legs in the air in submission. Matt ran into the kitchen, rescued the cat and in the process set off his asthma. The funny thing is, I'm not exaggerating THAT much! A lot of yoghurt (soya) later, it was edible. Just.
Weight wise, I've not had a good week. I dont think I'm going to lose all that much. I've tried very hard, and not eaten anything bad, done all of my weight watchers and been to the gym several times. I'm not disheartened too much though, as today I discovered I've lost 2inches from my waist, 2 from my hips and various other places. I feel slimmer and on my way, and I actually feel a good deal healthier. I sat opposite piles of naughty food today (office birthday) and didnt touch a piece. That would have never happened before.
Well, I'm now back off to look at holidays in Mexico and laser eye surgery.
G out x
Tuesday, 17 January 2012
Fishies galore...
Well, no Xbox this evening as Matt is away with work. I'm trying to fill my evening with as many terrible TV shows as possible, to get my fix! Later I intend to treat myself to an early night with a book.
That's rock'n'roll, baby!!!
Tonight when I got home (and talked myself out of going back out in the cold to the gym!) I noticed that both Lenny AND Nimoy were out in the tank and swimming about. Forgive the algae, as the tank is due a clean shortly, but Lenny is looking very impressive now!
(for those of you who don't know them, Nimoy is the red tailed black shark, Lenny is the tiger.) I love these fish, they're so gorgeous. It's awesome to make a cup of tea and see these two monsters just cruisin' 'round ma tank, keepin' it real.
So I've decided that I have to do SOME kind of exercise this evening, and that means breaking out my Davina fit video to prance around to. It will also require sofa movement and probably scare the dogs silly. I shall have to be careful because if I cause too many vibrations in the living room, I may break the Xbox......
;)
G out x
Ps. G is missing Matty loads. I'd even prefer him to be here playing Xbox. xxx
That's rock'n'roll, baby!!!
Tonight when I got home (and talked myself out of going back out in the cold to the gym!) I noticed that both Lenny AND Nimoy were out in the tank and swimming about. Forgive the algae, as the tank is due a clean shortly, but Lenny is looking very impressive now!
(for those of you who don't know them, Nimoy is the red tailed black shark, Lenny is the tiger.) I love these fish, they're so gorgeous. It's awesome to make a cup of tea and see these two monsters just cruisin' 'round ma tank, keepin' it real.
So I've decided that I have to do SOME kind of exercise this evening, and that means breaking out my Davina fit video to prance around to. It will also require sofa movement and probably scare the dogs silly. I shall have to be careful because if I cause too many vibrations in the living room, I may break the Xbox......
;)
G out x
Ps. G is missing Matty loads. I'd even prefer him to be here playing Xbox. xxx
Monday, 16 January 2012
THIS IS ALPHA TEAM, SURPRESSING ENEMY POSITION!!!
Oh no, wait. This is not alpha team surpressing enemy position, this is geek town, being assaulted by mid twenty something men who have been fed and now want to "shoot" things without any consequence to human life. And yes, the silly man in charge is still shouting swear words.
I'm regretting my pizza on Saturday. I think it may have messed up my decent weight loss chance on this particular occasion. But it's OK. At work today I got told that they could tell I'd lost weight, because they could no longer see my VPL. Ah lovely. Confidence blow for the win.
So this evening is gym night again. But before that, while Matt plays his online game with his pals, I'm trying to amuse myself with a DS (Mario.... I remember why I don't play it now. Because I'm SERIOUSLY rubbish at it, and as a result it's the most frustrating thing ever. Like, more frustrating than Rock Band) and with the Kindle (not enough light, no batteries for my book light). Consequently, I am writing my blog again.
Did anyone else notice how flipping cold it is?! I'm not built for this weather. I should be on a sunny beach somewhere.
Oooh good, they're bugging out.... oh no, weapon jam. What do we do?!?! Quick someone, flank them. Argh hang on, stop shooting, they're friendly. Oh god, the humanity.
G out x
I'm regretting my pizza on Saturday. I think it may have messed up my decent weight loss chance on this particular occasion. But it's OK. At work today I got told that they could tell I'd lost weight, because they could no longer see my VPL. Ah lovely. Confidence blow for the win.
So this evening is gym night again. But before that, while Matt plays his online game with his pals, I'm trying to amuse myself with a DS (Mario.... I remember why I don't play it now. Because I'm SERIOUSLY rubbish at it, and as a result it's the most frustrating thing ever. Like, more frustrating than Rock Band) and with the Kindle (not enough light, no batteries for my book light). Consequently, I am writing my blog again.
Did anyone else notice how flipping cold it is?! I'm not built for this weather. I should be on a sunny beach somewhere.
Oooh good, they're bugging out.... oh no, weapon jam. What do we do?!?! Quick someone, flank them. Argh hang on, stop shooting, they're friendly. Oh god, the humanity.
G out x
Saturday, 14 January 2012
War is bad, M'KAY....
Following our gym session, which left me looking like an exhausted beetroot that had been left out in the sun too long, and left me hobbling around on already stiff legs, I made us some lunch (more points than I meant to, but I was so hungry!!) and then settled on the sofa.
Matt bought a keyboard for Rock Band 3 and then, post shower, he tricked me into playing on the Xbox... The keyboard was too tempting, plus the fact that he was rubbish at it awakened my inner overly-competitive beast. Unbeknown to me, as I thumped away at the keys, concentrating intently on the content flying towards me on the screen, and berating Matt and the cat for distracting me and causing missed notes, Matt snapped a picture of me. Oh the shame! Caught in the act...
Incidently, for those of you that may believe I'm scared, I'm not. That's just the face I pull when I'm concentrating.
A busy rest of day, we're off out for coffee shortly and then up to a friends this evening. I'm toying with the idea of having a "treat" night and ordering a pizza, and reintroducing bread this week. But it's a LOT of points (approx. 30) for a pizza hut pizza, which would mean blowing all my weekly points in one go. It'd equate to three gym sessions and two walks. When you're putting in so much effort, a treat doesn't really feel like so much of a treat!!
Matt and Stu are now (remotely) playing a war game, I believe it's Flashpoint. There's a chap doing some kind of commentary on it, and frankly, he's offensive. His potty mouth is intense, and it's pretty difficult to think over the noise of intense gun fire and swear words. Add to that the fact that death seems no real object for these super human warriers, and all that they have to do when they're shot repeatedly is duck behind some cover and get more health, or grab a health pack out of a bag and magically start running again, and it makes for an incredibly irritating passenger experience.
I never thought I'd say it.... but bring back Skyrim.
G out. x
Matt bought a keyboard for Rock Band 3 and then, post shower, he tricked me into playing on the Xbox... The keyboard was too tempting, plus the fact that he was rubbish at it awakened my inner overly-competitive beast. Unbeknown to me, as I thumped away at the keys, concentrating intently on the content flying towards me on the screen, and berating Matt and the cat for distracting me and causing missed notes, Matt snapped a picture of me. Oh the shame! Caught in the act...
Incidently, for those of you that may believe I'm scared, I'm not. That's just the face I pull when I'm concentrating.
A busy rest of day, we're off out for coffee shortly and then up to a friends this evening. I'm toying with the idea of having a "treat" night and ordering a pizza, and reintroducing bread this week. But it's a LOT of points (approx. 30) for a pizza hut pizza, which would mean blowing all my weekly points in one go. It'd equate to three gym sessions and two walks. When you're putting in so much effort, a treat doesn't really feel like so much of a treat!!
Matt and Stu are now (remotely) playing a war game, I believe it's Flashpoint. There's a chap doing some kind of commentary on it, and frankly, he's offensive. His potty mouth is intense, and it's pretty difficult to think over the noise of intense gun fire and swear words. Add to that the fact that death seems no real object for these super human warriers, and all that they have to do when they're shot repeatedly is duck behind some cover and get more health, or grab a health pack out of a bag and magically start running again, and it makes for an incredibly irritating passenger experience.
I never thought I'd say it.... but bring back Skyrim.
G out. x
More good news!!
Well, I expected week two weight loss to fall away a bit but actually it has remained pretty strong!! I lost 1.6kg this week, taking my combined loss to 4.2kg, or just over 9llbs. I am so pleased!! I should imagine the next bit will be harder, as I'm back to previous plateau weight and it'll take some effort to push below that!
Today we are off out to the gym. It's freezing outside (or at least I'm told so, I'm still under a duvet, Matt has gone into town to get his crap shoes from Jones refunded) Gym is at 11am so I'm only really quickly typing up my achievement before hitting the gym. Matt and Stu will be training together today (Man training, still ache from trying it on Wednesday) so I shall be plodding along on a treadmill on my own, but that's OK. Fewer people see me *glowing* that way!! I wonder if the New Year gym influx has calmed yet or if it'll be rammed again today.
I still havent decided what I reintroduce food wise today. The first week I'd have killed for a tea with milk, but actually black tea and coffee have become fairly normal and I'm not all that fussed. In fact, I'm tempted to carry on with none of the aggitants because I've felt so much less poorly the last few weeks. I've been able to focus and get stuff done without constantly worrying about what my stomach will do next. I can't recommend FODMAP diet enough to IBS sufferers. It really is incredible, and actually if you do enough research, there are lots of tasty meals to be had!
G out x
Today we are off out to the gym. It's freezing outside (or at least I'm told so, I'm still under a duvet, Matt has gone into town to get his crap shoes from Jones refunded) Gym is at 11am so I'm only really quickly typing up my achievement before hitting the gym. Matt and Stu will be training together today (Man training, still ache from trying it on Wednesday) so I shall be plodding along on a treadmill on my own, but that's OK. Fewer people see me *glowing* that way!! I wonder if the New Year gym influx has calmed yet or if it'll be rammed again today.
I still havent decided what I reintroduce food wise today. The first week I'd have killed for a tea with milk, but actually black tea and coffee have become fairly normal and I'm not all that fussed. In fact, I'm tempted to carry on with none of the aggitants because I've felt so much less poorly the last few weeks. I've been able to focus and get stuff done without constantly worrying about what my stomach will do next. I can't recommend FODMAP diet enough to IBS sufferers. It really is incredible, and actually if you do enough research, there are lots of tasty meals to be had!
G out x
Friday, 13 January 2012
No Xbox for several days...
I think that Matt might be ill. This week he seems to have wanted to go to work, go to the gym, watch TV and catch up on a few films. He even just went for a run in the freezing cold prior to a dog walk. Impressive!!
Tomorrow is weigh in number two. I've worked really hard again this week on my food intake, nothing unhealthy has passed my lips. I've done two reasonable gym sessions and a walk. I hope that I have some reasonable success again! The other good news is that my stomach has been about 60% better than over Christmas so I have definitely cut out one or more foods that was causing the majority of the problem. This week coming I will get to reintroduce a food if I so wish. I cannot decide what I shall put back in.... should it be milk, bread, or onion?
Gym during the day tomorrow and then we're off to a friend's house in the evening, and I think coffee along the way. Eye appointment on Sunday - I think that they might notice my prescription requires changing. Shame!
Watching the film Limitless at this moment in time. It's quite entertaining in a bad kind of way. I'm wondering if it's about to get interesting... One can only hope.
G out x
Tomorrow is weigh in number two. I've worked really hard again this week on my food intake, nothing unhealthy has passed my lips. I've done two reasonable gym sessions and a walk. I hope that I have some reasonable success again! The other good news is that my stomach has been about 60% better than over Christmas so I have definitely cut out one or more foods that was causing the majority of the problem. This week coming I will get to reintroduce a food if I so wish. I cannot decide what I shall put back in.... should it be milk, bread, or onion?
Gym during the day tomorrow and then we're off to a friend's house in the evening, and I think coffee along the way. Eye appointment on Sunday - I think that they might notice my prescription requires changing. Shame!
Watching the film Limitless at this moment in time. It's quite entertaining in a bad kind of way. I'm wondering if it's about to get interesting... One can only hope.
G out x
Tuesday, 10 January 2012
Move along now... nothing to see here...
I am actually so tired this evening that I can't think of anything exciting to write about.
I could tell you about the death of one of our poor fishes, which we gave a short burial yesterday. I hope that he's in fishy heaven. (heaven for fish that is, not a slightly dodgy heaven)
I could tell you about the fact that I managed my full cardio workout last night for the first time since before I started my personal training, which left me *glowing* like a lady shouldn't. Buckets.
I could tell you all about my better fuel consumption as a result of the 50mph restrictions on the M62, or the fact that I havent been stuck in a major traffic jam as a result of the traffic calming for two weeks. My thoughts being that they should keep the 50mph limit for the bad stretch even after the extra lane is added.
I could tell you how much I'm missing cheese, that I love onions, that chocolate is always on my mind.
What about Leeds only losing 1 - 0 to Arsenal? Thierry Henry's goal? How about Sheffield Wednesday being second in league one!
I could tell you about the crazy little old school indie game that Matt has been playing on the Xbox tonight.
I could.... but I won't. I'm too tired this evening. Time for bedfordshire.
G out x
I could tell you about the death of one of our poor fishes, which we gave a short burial yesterday. I hope that he's in fishy heaven. (heaven for fish that is, not a slightly dodgy heaven)
I could tell you about the fact that I managed my full cardio workout last night for the first time since before I started my personal training, which left me *glowing* like a lady shouldn't. Buckets.
I could tell you all about my better fuel consumption as a result of the 50mph restrictions on the M62, or the fact that I havent been stuck in a major traffic jam as a result of the traffic calming for two weeks. My thoughts being that they should keep the 50mph limit for the bad stretch even after the extra lane is added.
I could tell you how much I'm missing cheese, that I love onions, that chocolate is always on my mind.
What about Leeds only losing 1 - 0 to Arsenal? Thierry Henry's goal? How about Sheffield Wednesday being second in league one!
I could tell you about the crazy little old school indie game that Matt has been playing on the Xbox tonight.
I could.... but I won't. I'm too tired this evening. Time for bedfordshire.
G out x
Sunday, 8 January 2012
The Iron Lady
We got back late from a lovely night out in Bradford last night with Gav and Ali - we had a really tasty curry at Omar Khan's (although I've discovered ordering in a restaurant with Weightwatchers / fodmap is a tedious affair that involves having to explain why you literally cannot eat anything!!) I had to concede and have some onions in the food, but it was worth it as it was DELICIOUS!! We had a few drinks at G & A's before heading home (not via the closed M621) We didn't end up going to bed until 2am though, which meant a long lay in this morning!!
Today has been a lazy day, with very little gaming. We've done our week food shop, which is significantly more expensive than our usual shop but no matter. After a little hoovering and the usually clearing of the washing pile, we decided that we'd go to see The Iron Lady at the cinema.
I didn't expect it to be such a touching film. It's less about Thatcher's political legacy and more about her personal struggle from the perspective of her with dementia. It's really interesting and brilliantly acted. So a thoroughly enjoyable movie, and well worth a view.
I think the most touching part is the portrayal of the relationship between Maggie and Dennis. It made me sniffle a little bit.
And I didn't eat any popcorn - I took a tub of banana slices and blueberries with me. Pleased with myself!
G x
Today has been a lazy day, with very little gaming. We've done our week food shop, which is significantly more expensive than our usual shop but no matter. After a little hoovering and the usually clearing of the washing pile, we decided that we'd go to see The Iron Lady at the cinema.
I didn't expect it to be such a touching film. It's less about Thatcher's political legacy and more about her personal struggle from the perspective of her with dementia. It's really interesting and brilliantly acted. So a thoroughly enjoyable movie, and well worth a view.
I think the most touching part is the portrayal of the relationship between Maggie and Dennis. It made me sniffle a little bit.
And I didn't eat any popcorn - I took a tub of banana slices and blueberries with me. Pleased with myself!
G x
Saturday, 7 January 2012
Success and more success!
Feeling great today - week one has meant 2.6kg weight loss. I'm aware that that speed of weight loss is unlikely to continue, but I'm just so pleased. It's the most weight I've lost in a week ever, and is just down to being careful, thinking about what I'm eating, smaller portions and a gym session. Matt has also lost 1kg so proud of him too!! Shortly I shall be plugging my weight into my Weightwatchers online thing, and that will make me happy too! One small step for weightwatchers... one giant leap for G.
We've had a very productive day. Up early and off to B&Q to get a panel and bits to fix the fencing. Matt discovered that you can hire a van from them by the hour, what a great idea!! We picked up the van, and Matt decided to try to rally it back to ours. Look at the GLEE on his face... I was mostly terrified.
We then spent some time fixing the fence - Matt did a really good job setting three posts back and replacing the shattered panel. He's not usually a big DIY fan, so I'm really impressed with the job that he did!
Just waiting to hear if we're out tonight or not. Either way I'm happy, either food with friends or chilling at home. Both are welcome. I'm such a tired G, but we've put "Paul" on to watch so I'm off!
G out x
We've had a very productive day. Up early and off to B&Q to get a panel and bits to fix the fencing. Matt discovered that you can hire a van from them by the hour, what a great idea!! We picked up the van, and Matt decided to try to rally it back to ours. Look at the GLEE on his face... I was mostly terrified.
We then spent some time fixing the fence - Matt did a really good job setting three posts back and replacing the shattered panel. He's not usually a big DIY fan, so I'm really impressed with the job that he did!
Just waiting to hear if we're out tonight or not. Either way I'm happy, either food with friends or chilling at home. Both are welcome. I'm such a tired G, but we've put "Paul" on to watch so I'm off!
G out x
Friday, 6 January 2012
Tonight is gym night....
I really am too shattered to go. I can't decide if it's best to go and struggle or to rest tonight and deal with our busy day tomorrow as it comes.
Tomorrow Matt and I have to repair the fence, which involves hiring a van from B & Q, getting the panelling, some concrete (components) and managing to use our "superior" DIY skills (read none) to fix it. If we manage to do it, it will not cost us too much. I will also feel much better knowing that the house is more secure.
Jeans arrived from Debenhams today that I got in the sale. They're miles too small (all my other size 16 jeans fit...) but I'm going to keep them as a "target" pair of jeans. They were a really good price and it would seem a shame to get rid of them.
I'm hopeful for my first weigh in tomorrow. I've had a few sneaky weighs and the signs all indicate that I'm doing well, I just hope that it'll stick.
The good things this week are that we've had delicious meals all week, I've not really felt too hungry, I've enjoyed cooking and finding recipes that suit the mad list of things I can and cannot eat, and if I'm losing weight also it's good news all around.
Matt has now started on the new Assassin's Creed. I wonder if this will be another 6 month game. His friends and he have a website called www.pixel-junkies.co.uk where they post reviews about games etc so I should imagine that there'll be a review of some kind coming. It has been a little quiet of late, but I gather that there is going to be a resurgence in effort and possibly a more blog-like style to it. I'll keep you posted. Perhaps any readers can go there and persuade him that gaming should give way to happy-ever-after films, and making tea for his girlfriend. Just a thought...
Well, it's Friday night and I'm sat typing in an anti-social manner. I think that I shall go and talk to the cat. He seems just as fed up with the gaming as I... or at least I assume so from the way he has perched on Matt as best he can, looking for affection.
G out x
Tomorrow Matt and I have to repair the fence, which involves hiring a van from B & Q, getting the panelling, some concrete (components) and managing to use our "superior" DIY skills (read none) to fix it. If we manage to do it, it will not cost us too much. I will also feel much better knowing that the house is more secure.
Jeans arrived from Debenhams today that I got in the sale. They're miles too small (all my other size 16 jeans fit...) but I'm going to keep them as a "target" pair of jeans. They were a really good price and it would seem a shame to get rid of them.
I'm hopeful for my first weigh in tomorrow. I've had a few sneaky weighs and the signs all indicate that I'm doing well, I just hope that it'll stick.
The good things this week are that we've had delicious meals all week, I've not really felt too hungry, I've enjoyed cooking and finding recipes that suit the mad list of things I can and cannot eat, and if I'm losing weight also it's good news all around.
Matt has now started on the new Assassin's Creed. I wonder if this will be another 6 month game. His friends and he have a website called www.pixel-junkies.co.uk where they post reviews about games etc so I should imagine that there'll be a review of some kind coming. It has been a little quiet of late, but I gather that there is going to be a resurgence in effort and possibly a more blog-like style to it. I'll keep you posted. Perhaps any readers can go there and persuade him that gaming should give way to happy-ever-after films, and making tea for his girlfriend. Just a thought...
Well, it's Friday night and I'm sat typing in an anti-social manner. I think that I shall go and talk to the cat. He seems just as fed up with the gaming as I... or at least I assume so from the way he has perched on Matt as best he can, looking for affection.
G out x
Thursday, 5 January 2012
RP without G - Musings of an Xbox widow: Skyrim completed!!
RP without G - Musings of an Xbox widow: Skyrim completed!!: Hurray!!! The day that I thought would never come. Skyrim is no more. Matt has defeated the last dragon. Sense can return to the world!!...
Skyrim completed!!
Hurray!!! The day that I thought would never come. Skyrim is no more. Matt has defeated the last dragon. Sense can return to the world!!
Clearly karma doesn't want it to be a celebratory evening tonight though. Currently, the cat has been sick twice, the dogs are nervous (probably because the cat has been sick twice) and more irritatingly, we have had a small disaster in the garden.
Last night, as the wind literally howled its way around the house, and the doors inside rattled in reaction to the gusts that found their way in through all the possible nooks / ventilation points, we lay happily in bed. Then I heard a crunch, I sat up and said "What the hell was that?!" Matty replied "it'll be one of those bins making its way around the garden." He's right, I thought. There's no need to worry.
This evening, when I got home, I trotted into the house and had a look around. The dogs hadnt sh*t on, p***ed on, or destroyed anything - a miracle! I patted them furiously and then let them out. Off they scuttled. And then.... silence. No snuffling, no panting..... I called them back in after I thought they'd had time to do their business. Poppet came. Chester didnt. I called him twice, and then put on the nearest pair of shoes (Matt's) to go and look. Had he jumped the fence?! No..... the gales last night had taken down the fence around the back of the house near our bedroom. And on the otherside of the fence, on the wall over looking the carpark, was a sheepish dog. You know the look. The one that says "who me?!..... as IF I was about to run off into the car park, or for a ramble around upsetting the local cats. As IF!!!"
Saturday, then, will include (a) buying a new, suitable fence panel to replace the shattered one, (b) re-sitting the two enormous fence posts that have been uprooted (and actually set them in concrete this time....) and (c) fix all the three unseated panels back in place.
Sigh....
G out x
Clearly karma doesn't want it to be a celebratory evening tonight though. Currently, the cat has been sick twice, the dogs are nervous (probably because the cat has been sick twice) and more irritatingly, we have had a small disaster in the garden.
Last night, as the wind literally howled its way around the house, and the doors inside rattled in reaction to the gusts that found their way in through all the possible nooks / ventilation points, we lay happily in bed. Then I heard a crunch, I sat up and said "What the hell was that?!" Matty replied "it'll be one of those bins making its way around the garden." He's right, I thought. There's no need to worry.
This evening, when I got home, I trotted into the house and had a look around. The dogs hadnt sh*t on, p***ed on, or destroyed anything - a miracle! I patted them furiously and then let them out. Off they scuttled. And then.... silence. No snuffling, no panting..... I called them back in after I thought they'd had time to do their business. Poppet came. Chester didnt. I called him twice, and then put on the nearest pair of shoes (Matt's) to go and look. Had he jumped the fence?! No..... the gales last night had taken down the fence around the back of the house near our bedroom. And on the otherside of the fence, on the wall over looking the carpark, was a sheepish dog. You know the look. The one that says "who me?!..... as IF I was about to run off into the car park, or for a ramble around upsetting the local cats. As IF!!!"
Saturday, then, will include (a) buying a new, suitable fence panel to replace the shattered one, (b) re-sitting the two enormous fence posts that have been uprooted (and actually set them in concrete this time....) and (c) fix all the three unseated panels back in place.
Sigh....
G out x
Wednesday, 4 January 2012
More skyrim....
Skyrim is on again....
We will be off to the gym in the not too distant future though, so I shall have some R & R from it.
Diet still on track. I temporarily angrily snatched at a box of chocolate earlier, when scrabbling around trying to find my stamps, in a bid to alleviate my irritation. That's when you realise you're a comfort eater!!
I had a sneeky weigh in this morning - 1.5kg lost already! I wonder if it'll have stayed off by Saturday morning (official weightwatchers weigh in day)
I shall take the rest of my blog to complain about delivery service "Yodel" - they really are sh*t beyond measure. I have been waiting for several parcels for some time now, one of which is due for delivery via their network. When I saw that they were delivering, my heart sank. So far they have managed to "lose" (read stolen from depot) a hoover that was on its way to us (a super discounted Dyson, which was never replaced as the offer had expired), they've managed to deliver a package from the Book People that was not only 10 days late, but also smashed to pieces. On delivery of the second package from the book people, we had to go and find the driver. He told us it was OK because it was his round, and he now knew where we were. Cue several deliveries that were OK. Today I get a telephone voicemail, over a week after dispatch, telling me that they "can't find" us. I explained, at length, about the history of their utterly rubbish service, that I was not prepared to go through the same b*llocks again, and that they may want to take my directions down VERY carefully. I have given detailed information. I have given them somewhere to leave the parcel (which now will have no one home, as would not have been the case if they'd delivered on time), and I have mentally noted that, if they fail to deliver to me tomorrow, I will go to the depot and give them all a lesson in (a) map reading and (b) common sense.
I also ordered an old fashioned diary from amazon (post, turned up just fine) so I will be recording in that too. I realise that there are so many things that we do on a regular basis that just fade into the mists of time, and I cannot remember when or with whom etc. I'd like very much to keep track. It's only day to day stuff, but as John Lennon said, "life is what happens when you're making other plans".
G out x
We will be off to the gym in the not too distant future though, so I shall have some R & R from it.
Diet still on track. I temporarily angrily snatched at a box of chocolate earlier, when scrabbling around trying to find my stamps, in a bid to alleviate my irritation. That's when you realise you're a comfort eater!!
I had a sneeky weigh in this morning - 1.5kg lost already! I wonder if it'll have stayed off by Saturday morning (official weightwatchers weigh in day)
I shall take the rest of my blog to complain about delivery service "Yodel" - they really are sh*t beyond measure. I have been waiting for several parcels for some time now, one of which is due for delivery via their network. When I saw that they were delivering, my heart sank. So far they have managed to "lose" (read stolen from depot) a hoover that was on its way to us (a super discounted Dyson, which was never replaced as the offer had expired), they've managed to deliver a package from the Book People that was not only 10 days late, but also smashed to pieces. On delivery of the second package from the book people, we had to go and find the driver. He told us it was OK because it was his round, and he now knew where we were. Cue several deliveries that were OK. Today I get a telephone voicemail, over a week after dispatch, telling me that they "can't find" us. I explained, at length, about the history of their utterly rubbish service, that I was not prepared to go through the same b*llocks again, and that they may want to take my directions down VERY carefully. I have given detailed information. I have given them somewhere to leave the parcel (which now will have no one home, as would not have been the case if they'd delivered on time), and I have mentally noted that, if they fail to deliver to me tomorrow, I will go to the depot and give them all a lesson in (a) map reading and (b) common sense.
I also ordered an old fashioned diary from amazon (post, turned up just fine) so I will be recording in that too. I realise that there are so many things that we do on a regular basis that just fade into the mists of time, and I cannot remember when or with whom etc. I'd like very much to keep track. It's only day to day stuff, but as John Lennon said, "life is what happens when you're making other plans".
G out x
Tuesday, 3 January 2012
Day 3...
3 days in to Fodmap/weightwatchers fusion diet.
Today, I have eaten the following;
Cornflakes with soya milk for breakfast.
Tuna and beetroot salad for lunch, with an orange.
An orange for a snack.
Steamed curried fish, mashed sweet potato, green beans, mushrooms and carrots with some gravy.
Later I will have a small amount of sultana sweetened porridge.
Total number of black teas: 5
This had better work!!
I also have had some stern words with myself over the past few days, and decided that I'm going to aim for the magic 75kg by my 30th birthday. Partly due to the fact that I'm amazed to have put on so much weight again, and partly because it's a good milestone. If I succeed, Matt is going to buy me a posh dress. Huzzah! I just need to employ some of that famous Gerrard stubborness for a good cause for a change....!!
Talking of the other half..... His first day at his new job today, so, after getting home and being fed, he has now settled into some...... SKYRIM! Bloody hell, will this game never end?! Literally about 4 months he must have been playing it now. He even tries to show me his characters outfits. I mentally add a minute on to the shopping trip from hell that I plan to take him on one day, every time I am forced to participate in his frivolity. Mwahahahaha.
I'm told that my next choice is either Assasin's Creed Revelations or Batman Arkham City. I think I'll side with Assasin's Creed. Pointless really though, as I shall have to watch them all anyway!
Whilst cooking earlier, I recounted the story of my colleagues being impressed with my Christmas present (Kenwood chef) - Matt responded with "That's cos your husband spoils you!" . Either I have missed my own wedding, or Matt has morphed the real world with Skyrim, and he now remembers his RPG marriage as his own.
I wouldn't put it past him....
G out. x
Today, I have eaten the following;
Cornflakes with soya milk for breakfast.
Tuna and beetroot salad for lunch, with an orange.
An orange for a snack.
Steamed curried fish, mashed sweet potato, green beans, mushrooms and carrots with some gravy.
Later I will have a small amount of sultana sweetened porridge.
Total number of black teas: 5
This had better work!!
I also have had some stern words with myself over the past few days, and decided that I'm going to aim for the magic 75kg by my 30th birthday. Partly due to the fact that I'm amazed to have put on so much weight again, and partly because it's a good milestone. If I succeed, Matt is going to buy me a posh dress. Huzzah! I just need to employ some of that famous Gerrard stubborness for a good cause for a change....!!
Talking of the other half..... His first day at his new job today, so, after getting home and being fed, he has now settled into some...... SKYRIM! Bloody hell, will this game never end?! Literally about 4 months he must have been playing it now. He even tries to show me his characters outfits. I mentally add a minute on to the shopping trip from hell that I plan to take him on one day, every time I am forced to participate in his frivolity. Mwahahahaha.
I'm told that my next choice is either Assasin's Creed Revelations or Batman Arkham City. I think I'll side with Assasin's Creed. Pointless really though, as I shall have to watch them all anyway!
Whilst cooking earlier, I recounted the story of my colleagues being impressed with my Christmas present (Kenwood chef) - Matt responded with "That's cos your husband spoils you!" . Either I have missed my own wedding, or Matt has morphed the real world with Skyrim, and he now remembers his RPG marriage as his own.
I wouldn't put it past him....
G out. x
Sunday, 1 January 2012
Productive New Year
You will have to forgive my ramblings, as I am several glasses of wine down. As one is, at New Year.
So today has been the first day of the Fodmap diet, and I shall update you on my progress thus far shortly, however I'd like to say a little about the New Year, resolutions and the day so far first.
New Year is usually a crap night out. Let's be honest, how many New Year celebrations can you (a) remember, (b) say that you've enjoyed and (c) not regretted investing in after the event? With this in mind, Matt and I decided to have a romantic dinner IN this year. After much debate, we settled on a menu.
To start, a stilton and mushroom sauce served on toasted ciabatta bread with a side salad and balsamic dressing. The main was a ribeye steak, with butternut squash and sweet potato mash, honey roasted carrots and parsnips, and a peppercorn sauce. The sweet was a home made lemon drizzle cake, served with custard (birds....) We dressed up for the occasion; I wore my burgundy red "black tie" dress with shawl, and Matt work smart trousers and a shirt. Our dinner was washed down with champagne and by the time it got to 10pm, we were well fed, warm and cuddled up on the sofa. Snoozing followed, but thankfully we didn't miss the New Year celebrations. We stood outside for a bit and saw some Chinese lanterns go up in the sky above us and watched the fireworks all around, before heading back in to catch the London fireworks. Thoroughly great New Year!!
My new year resolution is to tackle my weight and to get fit and healthy again. I've been so successful this year, in comparison to my previous attempts, that I'm anxious to get on and do it for me.
Matts resolutions involve getting the house sorted and so today, we cleared the old bed out of the spare room, put up my more modern and sturdy bed, and rearranged things - it looks fab!! So we now have two fully functioning guest bedrooms. Yey!!
So to the FODMAP update - today I have had soya milk with cornflakes for breakfast, tomato soup and a side salad of lettuce and tomatoes in balsamic dressing for lunch, and a roast dinner (at Matt's Mum's house) which consisted of turkey, roast potatoes, butternut squash mash, Yorkshire pudding (bad) and broccoli (bad),and cream with the sweet (bad) - so of the whole day, I think I've done really well. I snacked on an orange and some blueberries. I will just have to keep it up. Remarkably, despite still having some FODMAP foods, I am SO much less bloated - even Matt has noticed today. If these results continue, life will become instantly more pleasant!!
Matt is still playing Skyrim, but after the last two days productivity, I care not for once ;)
I'm off to finish making bread (not for me!!!)
Happy New Year to you all.
G x
So today has been the first day of the Fodmap diet, and I shall update you on my progress thus far shortly, however I'd like to say a little about the New Year, resolutions and the day so far first.
New Year is usually a crap night out. Let's be honest, how many New Year celebrations can you (a) remember, (b) say that you've enjoyed and (c) not regretted investing in after the event? With this in mind, Matt and I decided to have a romantic dinner IN this year. After much debate, we settled on a menu.
To start, a stilton and mushroom sauce served on toasted ciabatta bread with a side salad and balsamic dressing. The main was a ribeye steak, with butternut squash and sweet potato mash, honey roasted carrots and parsnips, and a peppercorn sauce. The sweet was a home made lemon drizzle cake, served with custard (birds....) We dressed up for the occasion; I wore my burgundy red "black tie" dress with shawl, and Matt work smart trousers and a shirt. Our dinner was washed down with champagne and by the time it got to 10pm, we were well fed, warm and cuddled up on the sofa. Snoozing followed, but thankfully we didn't miss the New Year celebrations. We stood outside for a bit and saw some Chinese lanterns go up in the sky above us and watched the fireworks all around, before heading back in to catch the London fireworks. Thoroughly great New Year!!
My new year resolution is to tackle my weight and to get fit and healthy again. I've been so successful this year, in comparison to my previous attempts, that I'm anxious to get on and do it for me.
Matts resolutions involve getting the house sorted and so today, we cleared the old bed out of the spare room, put up my more modern and sturdy bed, and rearranged things - it looks fab!! So we now have two fully functioning guest bedrooms. Yey!!
So to the FODMAP update - today I have had soya milk with cornflakes for breakfast, tomato soup and a side salad of lettuce and tomatoes in balsamic dressing for lunch, and a roast dinner (at Matt's Mum's house) which consisted of turkey, roast potatoes, butternut squash mash, Yorkshire pudding (bad) and broccoli (bad),and cream with the sweet (bad) - so of the whole day, I think I've done really well. I snacked on an orange and some blueberries. I will just have to keep it up. Remarkably, despite still having some FODMAP foods, I am SO much less bloated - even Matt has noticed today. If these results continue, life will become instantly more pleasant!!
Matt is still playing Skyrim, but after the last two days productivity, I care not for once ;)
I'm off to finish making bread (not for me!!!)
Happy New Year to you all.
G x
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