I'm skipping good things today. I haven't written in almost a week--not for lack of trying, I was having a hard time getting motivated and inspired.
Got inspired today. (Really yesterday.)
I got into a 'discussion' via facebook about the merits of ice dancing. Someone noted how it was the wussification of sport and that ice dancers only started ice dancing when 'they couldn't make it as real skaters'. I disagreed. I couldn't find enough space to spout my arguments there so you'll all have to put up with me here.
In addition the the commentary on ice dancing the writers also hit on golf, synchronized swimming, and rhythmic gymnastics--labeling them as non sports and indicating them as sports invented to 'make everyone feel special.' Here we go.
SERIOUSLY? Can you keep time and steps on a steel blade like an ice dancer? Can you hit a little ball into a cup with precision like a golfer? Can you hold your breath for two minutes while catapulting your feet skyward? I can't.
There was also discussion about these athletes being less fit than other traditional sports. I'm fairly sure that pound for pound those ice dancers can leg press as much as a football player. What other sport makes you hold your breath and swim around lifting people out of the water? None. I'm telling you these people are fit, probably in better shape that athletes in other sports. I looked for days and didn't see ONE heavy curler. (Except for the pregnant one, and she looked amazing.)
Here's the thing: I love the competition---who cares that some of the sports are boring--I have no clue what goes into making a synchronized swim routine a good one--and really I don't want to, I just know it's more interesting to watch than baseball, and I'm thinking more physically exhausting. (For me, paint drying is better than baseball---I pray that Nick and Luke never pick up a glove--ugh, BORING.)
So--let's celebrate competition. Relish it. We're coming into the best season of the year--March Madness. (College basketball for those who don't know.) It's the time when the little guy has a chance to bring down the heavy hitter. I LOVE IT!
Anyone else interested in running??? I'm still looking to add to the list.
Becky
Here's tomorrow's topic: American Idol. It will be worth the read, I promise.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Fleshy.
Good Things About Today:
1. Down time with no plans.
2. It's warmer.
3. I've made it 5 days with no sweets in sight. Holler. 35 Days remain.
Fleshy.
I hate this word, but I feel like it describes perfectly a few parts of my anatomy.
Here are a few examples, so the rest of you can compare.
1. When the jeans ride too low leaving a muffin top or, even better 'the bulge'. It might not be a complete muffin top, because the waist isn't that tight, but the fleshy bugle emerges and I find myself often poking it. You don't need to say it, I already know it's pathetic.
2. Area right above the bra near the under arm.
3. Pooch. (Need I say more?)
4. Any area of the back while twisting.
Why did I bring this up? Because today, I felt fleshy and I HATED it--there was a little more sag than normal, a little more roll over than expected, and BANG I'm off. Driving the "I've got a terrible self image" train from station to station. The funny thing is, it only took ONE glance in the mirror to set me off. I'm sure I looked perfectly adorable at church this morning, but I continued tugging at my jacket the entire service---what if the back of it decided to creep up and people saw the fleshy roll? What then?
Here's the thing. In hindsight (ahh, the lovely hindsight--seriously, what a pain in the ass) I wasn't looking at anyone else--is it possible no one was looking at me? When did I become so paranoid about these things; is it beaten into women when they are young? Do we inhale the poor self image concept like candy on Halloween beginning at birth, or does the revolution take place later? I don't consciously remember feeling overly concerned about my appearance until at least fourth grade. (Making exceptions for class pictures, of course.) And I know it was much, much worse in middle school. Middle school girls can often be inhumane--but where do we learn this behavior? Could it be natural selection--survival of the fittest (or the meanest?)
Anyone got an opinion? POST it.
As an added nugget of truth (and in the spirit of honesty) I want you all to know I'm no closer to my goal of losing 10 pounds. Haven't lost an ounce, in fact I think I'm up a pound or two--at least one, probably two. I need to work harder here, but shoot I gave up the candy. :)
Enjoy the remainder of your Sunday!
Becky
1. Down time with no plans.
2. It's warmer.
3. I've made it 5 days with no sweets in sight. Holler. 35 Days remain.
Fleshy.
I hate this word, but I feel like it describes perfectly a few parts of my anatomy.
Here are a few examples, so the rest of you can compare.
1. When the jeans ride too low leaving a muffin top or, even better 'the bulge'. It might not be a complete muffin top, because the waist isn't that tight, but the fleshy bugle emerges and I find myself often poking it. You don't need to say it, I already know it's pathetic.
2. Area right above the bra near the under arm.
3. Pooch. (Need I say more?)
4. Any area of the back while twisting.
Why did I bring this up? Because today, I felt fleshy and I HATED it--there was a little more sag than normal, a little more roll over than expected, and BANG I'm off. Driving the "I've got a terrible self image" train from station to station. The funny thing is, it only took ONE glance in the mirror to set me off. I'm sure I looked perfectly adorable at church this morning, but I continued tugging at my jacket the entire service---what if the back of it decided to creep up and people saw the fleshy roll? What then?
Here's the thing. In hindsight (ahh, the lovely hindsight--seriously, what a pain in the ass) I wasn't looking at anyone else--is it possible no one was looking at me? When did I become so paranoid about these things; is it beaten into women when they are young? Do we inhale the poor self image concept like candy on Halloween beginning at birth, or does the revolution take place later? I don't consciously remember feeling overly concerned about my appearance until at least fourth grade. (Making exceptions for class pictures, of course.) And I know it was much, much worse in middle school. Middle school girls can often be inhumane--but where do we learn this behavior? Could it be natural selection--survival of the fittest (or the meanest?)
Anyone got an opinion? POST it.
As an added nugget of truth (and in the spirit of honesty) I want you all to know I'm no closer to my goal of losing 10 pounds. Haven't lost an ounce, in fact I think I'm up a pound or two--at least one, probably two. I need to work harder here, but shoot I gave up the candy. :)
Enjoy the remainder of your Sunday!
Becky
Thursday, February 18, 2010
I feel pretty, oh so pretty. Celebrate.
Good Things About Today.
1. It's Nick's first full day back at school in two weeks. We had snow, snow, snow, President's Day, snow, and snow to blame.
2. Shaun White and the Half Pipe show were incredible.
3. It's Thursday--that's always good.
So the title to this entry comes from My Fair Lady. I'm sure you all know the movie--Audrey Hepburn is transformed from grammatically challenged Eliza Doolittle into proper speaking, immaculately dressed Eliza. At the beginning of the movie she's down on her luck with little money or social grace---they also try to play down her beauty, but let's face it--we're talking about Audrey Hepburn here--classically beautiful without even trying. I'm sure she would have rocked the "just left the gym and here I am in my sweat pants" look every time. I digress.
Have you ever had an Eliza day? One where you wake up feeling like you could successfully take on the world with one hand tied behind your back? AND you'd look like a million bucks doing it. We've all had a few in our lives, maybe one thing stands out over another: you looked incredible, you dealt with problems so effortlessly, or everything just fell into place. Something was just 'right' with the day--it's one of those times you keep in your pocket, stashing it away for the 'crap is raining down on me' days.
I want all of you to think of your best Eliza day--the one where, for whatever reason, you felt transformed--where you were the one rocking the look, the test, the situation. For some reason, we celebrate these days once, often forgetting to take stock of the beautiful parts of life. Today is the day I want you to take time to remember, and from now on don't allow yourself forget. I also encourage you to post your memory and share it with others.
Here's my Eliza Day.
April 12, 2008 (my brother's birthday) I completed the Commit to Be Fit Half Marathon in Columbus, OH. I ran it in 2 hours 12 minutes and I cried at the finish line. By the finish even walking was painful--I didn't do a good job training, and thus had injuries in both legs when I ran. Regardless, I finished--and the Eliza part of my day was that my two little boys, my husband, and my sister (with her two kids) were all there to support me. Not that they remember now, but my boys saw me cross the finish line. Additionally, my good friend Heather, who ran a half a week later met me at the finish--and she cried too. I was totally elated and felt like nothing could get in my way that day. I felt transformed--invincible (except for the legs.) To top off the perfect day: I ate as much pizza as I possibly could cram in that evening. It rocked.
So--now share. What's yours! Get inspired.
Beck
Oh, and day two of lent and so far so good.
1. It's Nick's first full day back at school in two weeks. We had snow, snow, snow, President's Day, snow, and snow to blame.
2. Shaun White and the Half Pipe show were incredible.
3. It's Thursday--that's always good.
So the title to this entry comes from My Fair Lady. I'm sure you all know the movie--Audrey Hepburn is transformed from grammatically challenged Eliza Doolittle into proper speaking, immaculately dressed Eliza. At the beginning of the movie she's down on her luck with little money or social grace---they also try to play down her beauty, but let's face it--we're talking about Audrey Hepburn here--classically beautiful without even trying. I'm sure she would have rocked the "just left the gym and here I am in my sweat pants" look every time. I digress.
Have you ever had an Eliza day? One where you wake up feeling like you could successfully take on the world with one hand tied behind your back? AND you'd look like a million bucks doing it. We've all had a few in our lives, maybe one thing stands out over another: you looked incredible, you dealt with problems so effortlessly, or everything just fell into place. Something was just 'right' with the day--it's one of those times you keep in your pocket, stashing it away for the 'crap is raining down on me' days.
I want all of you to think of your best Eliza day--the one where, for whatever reason, you felt transformed--where you were the one rocking the look, the test, the situation. For some reason, we celebrate these days once, often forgetting to take stock of the beautiful parts of life. Today is the day I want you to take time to remember, and from now on don't allow yourself forget. I also encourage you to post your memory and share it with others.
Here's my Eliza Day.
April 12, 2008 (my brother's birthday) I completed the Commit to Be Fit Half Marathon in Columbus, OH. I ran it in 2 hours 12 minutes and I cried at the finish line. By the finish even walking was painful--I didn't do a good job training, and thus had injuries in both legs when I ran. Regardless, I finished--and the Eliza part of my day was that my two little boys, my husband, and my sister (with her two kids) were all there to support me. Not that they remember now, but my boys saw me cross the finish line. Additionally, my good friend Heather, who ran a half a week later met me at the finish--and she cried too. I was totally elated and felt like nothing could get in my way that day. I felt transformed--invincible (except for the legs.) To top off the perfect day: I ate as much pizza as I possibly could cram in that evening. It rocked.
So--now share. What's yours! Get inspired.
Beck
Oh, and day two of lent and so far so good.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Goodbye.
Good Things About Today.
1. Bowling with the boys--awesome.
2. Walking the dog in the snow.
3. Canceled nightly activities--now I don't have to miss the MSU game.
Goodbye.
Before you read the following entry please note: I ate a huge cupcake for breakfast, and throughout the day I managed to eat about 100 Reese's Pieces.
Tomorrow morning I'm saying goodbye to sweets--for 40 days. It's one of the two things I'm giving up for Lent. The other, alcohol, isn't nearly as hard for me--I enjoy a beer now and again, and the occasional glass of wine, but for the most part, I won't really miss it. I actually give it up because there are a couple events we attend during Lent that make avoiding it very hard--thus I feel it.
This is the fourth year in a row I've opted out of sweets. The definition of "sweets" gets transformed often--one year only chocolate, another year candy as a whole, one year all junk food (that was totally awful because Ben felt that all chips belonged in this category.) This year the interpretation I'm using is candy. Otherwise known as: chocolate, gummy things, taffy, ice cream (in all forms), cookies, cakes, brownies, pies, donuts, and anything else that might just taste wonderful. The only thing I'm setting aside is brown sugar in my oatmeal or on my pancakes. Otherwise, for the most part, I'm out.
I'm not sure what effect this may have on my writing or if my inner crazy will be forced out. We will all have to wait and see together. :) I'd also like to mention that last year I actually GAINED weight during this time frame--pathetic, right. Honestly, it really is.
Did anyone else think about the challenges? Give something up and do something.
Post a comment and let us all know where you're at with this. Good Luck, God Bless. Have a good evening.
Beck
1. Bowling with the boys--awesome.
2. Walking the dog in the snow.
3. Canceled nightly activities--now I don't have to miss the MSU game.
Goodbye.
Before you read the following entry please note: I ate a huge cupcake for breakfast, and throughout the day I managed to eat about 100 Reese's Pieces.
Tomorrow morning I'm saying goodbye to sweets--for 40 days. It's one of the two things I'm giving up for Lent. The other, alcohol, isn't nearly as hard for me--I enjoy a beer now and again, and the occasional glass of wine, but for the most part, I won't really miss it. I actually give it up because there are a couple events we attend during Lent that make avoiding it very hard--thus I feel it.
This is the fourth year in a row I've opted out of sweets. The definition of "sweets" gets transformed often--one year only chocolate, another year candy as a whole, one year all junk food (that was totally awful because Ben felt that all chips belonged in this category.) This year the interpretation I'm using is candy. Otherwise known as: chocolate, gummy things, taffy, ice cream (in all forms), cookies, cakes, brownies, pies, donuts, and anything else that might just taste wonderful. The only thing I'm setting aside is brown sugar in my oatmeal or on my pancakes. Otherwise, for the most part, I'm out.
I'm not sure what effect this may have on my writing or if my inner crazy will be forced out. We will all have to wait and see together. :) I'd also like to mention that last year I actually GAINED weight during this time frame--pathetic, right. Honestly, it really is.
Did anyone else think about the challenges? Give something up and do something.
Post a comment and let us all know where you're at with this. Good Luck, God Bless. Have a good evening.
Beck
Monday, February 15, 2010
Lent-Give it Up.
Please note--I've added a spot on the far right of the blog for those who have made the written commitment to run this summer. If you told me you wanted to run and I missed you, please let me know! The list is getting longer--who will be next?
Good Things About Today:
1. Good 5 miles.
2. Snow, again, but Ben is home to shovel!
3. Olympics+DVR=Heaven
Today, let's talk a little about Lent.
Right off the bat, I'm going to assume you all know what Lent is...if you don't a quick trip to Wikipedia will help.
Growing up Lent wasn't really an integral part of my Easter experience. I routinely scoffed at you Catholics (Wendy, Ang and Jole) who talked about giving something up. My overall immaturity gave way to a snicker here or there about kneeling and praying with beads. Little did I know that God had a very significant plan for my life that was going to upend my Catholic stereotyping.
At 24 I found myself teaching seventh grade in a Catholic school. As a practicing Christian (Yes, Becky, Catholics are Christians too.), I wanted to make sure I didn't lose myself and my beliefs after being submerged in what I believed to be Catholic mumbo-jumbo. Well thank goodness for that, right?
Who knew how incredibly wrong I could be...(I'm sure several of you did, but please refrain from chiming in here.) After being exposed to my students and their parents during those first couple of months I began to more clearly understand the intricate practices and rituals which were part of a Catholic's faith. It's that 'PART' word that is the important one---I failed to recognize (because I was immature and arrogant about my own faith)--Catholics are not simply their practices--their faith was just as solid as my own, and in many cases even more so. The realization brought be down a few pegs, and helped me to understand how much I could benefit for watching, listening, and even trying some of the things I'd once criticized. Thus: Giving up something for Lent.
Now you understand how I got where I am today---it's time to think about what (if anything) you'll be giving up on Wednesday. And here's my challenge to you all:
Don't simply give something up, also promise yourself you'll DO one thing everyday. My goal is to mail 7 letters each week to people who have made a difference in my life. Corny, I know but I think this is a good way to thank the people who have helped me get where I am today.
So there's your challenge--it's a two parter. 1. Give something up (and make it worth it) 2. Choose one thing to DO every day.
Tomorrow we will delve into what I'm giving up.
Also, remember if you want to run, let me know!
God Bless.
Becky
Good Things About Today:
1. Good 5 miles.
2. Snow, again, but Ben is home to shovel!
3. Olympics+DVR=Heaven
Today, let's talk a little about Lent.
Right off the bat, I'm going to assume you all know what Lent is...if you don't a quick trip to Wikipedia will help.
Growing up Lent wasn't really an integral part of my Easter experience. I routinely scoffed at you Catholics (Wendy, Ang and Jole) who talked about giving something up. My overall immaturity gave way to a snicker here or there about kneeling and praying with beads. Little did I know that God had a very significant plan for my life that was going to upend my Catholic stereotyping.
At 24 I found myself teaching seventh grade in a Catholic school. As a practicing Christian (Yes, Becky, Catholics are Christians too.), I wanted to make sure I didn't lose myself and my beliefs after being submerged in what I believed to be Catholic mumbo-jumbo. Well thank goodness for that, right?
Who knew how incredibly wrong I could be...(I'm sure several of you did, but please refrain from chiming in here.) After being exposed to my students and their parents during those first couple of months I began to more clearly understand the intricate practices and rituals which were part of a Catholic's faith. It's that 'PART' word that is the important one---I failed to recognize (because I was immature and arrogant about my own faith)--Catholics are not simply their practices--their faith was just as solid as my own, and in many cases even more so. The realization brought be down a few pegs, and helped me to understand how much I could benefit for watching, listening, and even trying some of the things I'd once criticized. Thus: Giving up something for Lent.
Now you understand how I got where I am today---it's time to think about what (if anything) you'll be giving up on Wednesday. And here's my challenge to you all:
Don't simply give something up, also promise yourself you'll DO one thing everyday. My goal is to mail 7 letters each week to people who have made a difference in my life. Corny, I know but I think this is a good way to thank the people who have helped me get where I am today.
So there's your challenge--it's a two parter. 1. Give something up (and make it worth it) 2. Choose one thing to DO every day.
Tomorrow we will delve into what I'm giving up.
Also, remember if you want to run, let me know!
God Bless.
Becky
Friday, February 12, 2010
Faux Paus at the Gym.
Good Things About Today.
1. Two hours later and both boys are still napping. HOLLER!
2. Completed a 6.5 mile run today in just under 62 minutes.
3. Friday--and a nice long weekend ahead with full Olympic Coverage.
4. A BIG GIANT ENORMOUS thank you to all of you who read and comment. I have a blast writing this and I'm extremely grateful to any and all of you who take the time to read!
I have to talk about the sports bra today. We all know what it is--but for those who'd like my definition here you go: it's the cinch wrap that holds everything in place while working out, and it's a must.
Many of you are wondering where this could be going, and I'll tell you--women with cleavage (any at all) should not wear a "supportive" tank top from Old Navy to the gym and run (or walk quickly, or use the elliptical). Whoops, let's be clear here, I mean the tank with the pathetic shelf bra sewn in that doesn't support anything--News Flash--it is made to be worn under tops, not as a top with no other visible means of support. Furthermore, if it is less than clean (I hesitated on saying actually dirty) and threadbare--please, at the very least, throw on a t-shirt. Why? Because, for heaven's sake, you can see through it--you know, like at a wet t-shirt contest, only, hello, it's not wet.
Perhaps I'm being overly critical (a correct accusation sometimes), but really? And we aren't talking about a small chested woman here. Seriously, it is inappropriate, bordering on indecent---do I say something (clearly not, that was rhetorical)? Should someone who is employed by the YMCA say something? And did I fail to mention that the temperature in the Y is on the chilly side......?
Here's another one--full makeup and perfume (or cologne which was the case today at 8 am) are not required or requested during a workout. In fact, if your 'scent' permeates further than 12 inches beyond you--yes, you are wearing too much. Additionally,if you happen to be standing near a fan, please kindly remove yourself lest the entire row of people on the treadmills fall victim. In case you were wondering, persistent coughing and/or sneezing is a hint that you are are indeed guilty of a few extra spritzes.
I've added these gym tips today because I know so many of you want to make the commitment to run this summer. Proper attire and scent level are important to a good run. Go forth and jog!
Becky
1. Two hours later and both boys are still napping. HOLLER!
2. Completed a 6.5 mile run today in just under 62 minutes.
3. Friday--and a nice long weekend ahead with full Olympic Coverage.
4. A BIG GIANT ENORMOUS thank you to all of you who read and comment. I have a blast writing this and I'm extremely grateful to any and all of you who take the time to read!
I have to talk about the sports bra today. We all know what it is--but for those who'd like my definition here you go: it's the cinch wrap that holds everything in place while working out, and it's a must.
Many of you are wondering where this could be going, and I'll tell you--women with cleavage (any at all) should not wear a "supportive" tank top from Old Navy to the gym and run (or walk quickly, or use the elliptical). Whoops, let's be clear here, I mean the tank with the pathetic shelf bra sewn in that doesn't support anything--News Flash--it is made to be worn under tops, not as a top with no other visible means of support. Furthermore, if it is less than clean (I hesitated on saying actually dirty) and threadbare--please, at the very least, throw on a t-shirt. Why? Because, for heaven's sake, you can see through it--you know, like at a wet t-shirt contest, only, hello, it's not wet.
Perhaps I'm being overly critical (a correct accusation sometimes), but really? And we aren't talking about a small chested woman here. Seriously, it is inappropriate, bordering on indecent---do I say something (clearly not, that was rhetorical)? Should someone who is employed by the YMCA say something? And did I fail to mention that the temperature in the Y is on the chilly side......?
Here's another one--full makeup and perfume (or cologne which was the case today at 8 am) are not required or requested during a workout. In fact, if your 'scent' permeates further than 12 inches beyond you--yes, you are wearing too much. Additionally,if you happen to be standing near a fan, please kindly remove yourself lest the entire row of people on the treadmills fall victim. In case you were wondering, persistent coughing and/or sneezing is a hint that you are are indeed guilty of a few extra spritzes.
I've added these gym tips today because I know so many of you want to make the commitment to run this summer. Proper attire and scent level are important to a good run. Go forth and jog!
Becky
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Middle School. Ugh.
Good Things About Today:
1. Library time, mmmm, lovely.
2. Nothing to do tonight.
3. A clean basement.
I've got serious issues with food/weight/self image and the like. I'm working hard to rectify that, but right now the wall still stands. I've put together a little snapshot inside my head---so we can all have a good laugh.
1. Today, while vacuuming, I wondered how many calories I burned.
2. Today, while walking around the library I applauded myself for the lack of snacks I'd ingested during the day.
3. Today, right before I stepped on the scale I went to the bathroom. You never know what another ounce or two will do. (I also took out my hair tie because that might add to my weight.)
4. I attempt to run (or jog) up the stairs on every trip--it has to burn more calories, right?
5. I bounced and jumped around for a couple of songs during our weekly dance party session today--I wondered how many calories that burned.
Does anyone see a pattern here?
I do, and it doesn't sound like someone who is taking the time to enjoy life. At times, it's clear, I'm overcome by food/weight/self image. How does this happen? When did I fall party to this way of thinking? I think I can answer that:
Middle school--otherwise known as the third ring of hell. For me it started then--big changes came in 6th grade--who remembers changing for gym in the locker room in front of EVERYONE for the first time? Even now, the memory activates my vomit reflex. Not only was I a bit pudgy, I never excelled at anything--I was a good student, but not a great one. I was a good singer, but not a great one. I was a good athlete, but I rode the pine in basketball relentlessly--merely seeing the 3 minutes they were required to play everyone. To top it all off, I had so many body issues I couldn't see my way out of a paper bag--(which looking back was ridiculous, and we all know how hindsight works--oh, right, it doesn't.) Regardless, I hated middle school, passionately.
In high school things got better, and although the body issues I carried around for the three years of middle school may have been more hidden, they were certainly more significant. How I felt about myself manipulated how I treated everyone else. (For those of you who knew me then, I'm so sorry if I was horrible.)
Now I'm a wife and a mother. My family adores me (and vice versa). I feel safe and secure in this role, and yet I think about the holy trinity (food/weight/self image) habitually. I've got to conquer this, or at least learn to regulate the feeling of inadequacy, right?
Whew. This was a little of an eye opener for me.
Thanks for reading. I'm still looking for people to take the Run Challenge. Maybe we can all run something at Baby Food Festival together. (Those of you that are reading from anywhere close to MI.) I also think we need to put pen to paper or physically type for the world to see that we have committed to running something this summer.
Have a good one.
Becky
1. Library time, mmmm, lovely.
2. Nothing to do tonight.
3. A clean basement.
I've got serious issues with food/weight/self image and the like. I'm working hard to rectify that, but right now the wall still stands. I've put together a little snapshot inside my head---so we can all have a good laugh.
1. Today, while vacuuming, I wondered how many calories I burned.
2. Today, while walking around the library I applauded myself for the lack of snacks I'd ingested during the day.
3. Today, right before I stepped on the scale I went to the bathroom. You never know what another ounce or two will do. (I also took out my hair tie because that might add to my weight.)
4. I attempt to run (or jog) up the stairs on every trip--it has to burn more calories, right?
5. I bounced and jumped around for a couple of songs during our weekly dance party session today--I wondered how many calories that burned.
Does anyone see a pattern here?
I do, and it doesn't sound like someone who is taking the time to enjoy life. At times, it's clear, I'm overcome by food/weight/self image. How does this happen? When did I fall party to this way of thinking? I think I can answer that:
Middle school--otherwise known as the third ring of hell. For me it started then--big changes came in 6th grade--who remembers changing for gym in the locker room in front of EVERYONE for the first time? Even now, the memory activates my vomit reflex. Not only was I a bit pudgy, I never excelled at anything--I was a good student, but not a great one. I was a good singer, but not a great one. I was a good athlete, but I rode the pine in basketball relentlessly--merely seeing the 3 minutes they were required to play everyone. To top it all off, I had so many body issues I couldn't see my way out of a paper bag--(which looking back was ridiculous, and we all know how hindsight works--oh, right, it doesn't.) Regardless, I hated middle school, passionately.
In high school things got better, and although the body issues I carried around for the three years of middle school may have been more hidden, they were certainly more significant. How I felt about myself manipulated how I treated everyone else. (For those of you who knew me then, I'm so sorry if I was horrible.)
Now I'm a wife and a mother. My family adores me (and vice versa). I feel safe and secure in this role, and yet I think about the holy trinity (food/weight/self image) habitually. I've got to conquer this, or at least learn to regulate the feeling of inadequacy, right?
Whew. This was a little of an eye opener for me.
Thanks for reading. I'm still looking for people to take the Run Challenge. Maybe we can all run something at Baby Food Festival together. (Those of you that are reading from anywhere close to MI.) I also think we need to put pen to paper or physically type for the world to see that we have committed to running something this summer.
Have a good one.
Becky
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
NOW I'm annoyed.
Good Things about today.
1. Soccer for the boys--super cute.
2. Equated shoveling the driveway three times to three handfuls of M & M's.
3. No nap time + lots of outside play + soccer= Early Bed time. WOOT!
And now for a new segment on my blog: Are you serious? This title will appear from time to time on various topics. Mainly used with people who can't be serious. Let's begin.
Are you serious?
This will be the first and probably last blog with any political stuff in it. Sorry, I was just angry.
I need to start by saying that my whole life I have advocated for choice. Some of you will hate that, others will understand, others may not. All that aside, I don't agree with the decision to have an abortion, and that's MY choice. I don't get to make that choice for anyone other than myself. I've only ever walked in my shoes, so I don't know what makes a woman feel like that is her only option, I just know I can't personally make that choice for them. I hope all of you will continue to read the blog even if you have a different stance---this is an open forum--please feel free to speak your mind. Lively debate is one of the most important rights we have in this country.
Now, as to why I'm annoyed. I love Tim Tebow. Ben gives me crap all the time about it, but I have stood, and will continue to stand firm. The guy is amazing--donates his time to help others, advocates for what he believes, and has no qualms about discussing his openly Christian life (all this in addition to being an amazing athlete). What's not to love---come on, he's great! (If he played for anyone other than Urban Meyer and FL I may believe him to be perfect.)
So this ad, the one with his mom airs during the Super Bowl. It's simple--she chose life, he's fine...and in one part of it Tim tackles his mom. It was meant to be FUNNY. And yet, because it's easier to throw stones the President of NOW had the following to say:
NOW president Terry O'Neill said that bit of the ad glorified violence against women.
"I am blown away at the celebration of the violence against women in it," she told the Los Angeles Times. "That's what comes across to me even more strongly than the anti-abortion message. I myself am a survivor of domestic violence, and I don't find it charming. I think CBS should be ashamed of itself."
Is she SERIOUS? This ad was in no way celebrated violence against women. The entire quote was pathetic--clearly she didn't see any of the Go Daddy ads that celebrated women as mere sex objects---so much more offensive than Tim Tebow tackling his mother, and yet there is no comment here, why? I'm confused. (Not the first time, certainly not the last.)
Each time I read her quote I get more fired up. We've got people starving, freezing, and lacking any type of home and she's wasting her time talking about this? I would have been far more impressed to hear her say something about how they don't agree with the ad, and are instead donating 2.5 million (the cost of an ad) to helping specifically women in Haiti. Figure it out---so much more would have come out of a move like that, but instead we have to bash others to feel better. Ugh. I'm sick of this already.
Thanks for letting me vent.
Three days until the Winter Olympics opening ceremonies. Woot.
Beck
1. Soccer for the boys--super cute.
2. Equated shoveling the driveway three times to three handfuls of M & M's.
3. No nap time + lots of outside play + soccer= Early Bed time. WOOT!
And now for a new segment on my blog: Are you serious? This title will appear from time to time on various topics. Mainly used with people who can't be serious. Let's begin.
Are you serious?
This will be the first and probably last blog with any political stuff in it. Sorry, I was just angry.
I need to start by saying that my whole life I have advocated for choice. Some of you will hate that, others will understand, others may not. All that aside, I don't agree with the decision to have an abortion, and that's MY choice. I don't get to make that choice for anyone other than myself. I've only ever walked in my shoes, so I don't know what makes a woman feel like that is her only option, I just know I can't personally make that choice for them. I hope all of you will continue to read the blog even if you have a different stance---this is an open forum--please feel free to speak your mind. Lively debate is one of the most important rights we have in this country.
Now, as to why I'm annoyed. I love Tim Tebow. Ben gives me crap all the time about it, but I have stood, and will continue to stand firm. The guy is amazing--donates his time to help others, advocates for what he believes, and has no qualms about discussing his openly Christian life (all this in addition to being an amazing athlete). What's not to love---come on, he's great! (If he played for anyone other than Urban Meyer and FL I may believe him to be perfect.)
So this ad, the one with his mom airs during the Super Bowl. It's simple--she chose life, he's fine...and in one part of it Tim tackles his mom. It was meant to be FUNNY. And yet, because it's easier to throw stones the President of NOW had the following to say:
NOW president Terry O'Neill said that bit of the ad glorified violence against women.
"I am blown away at the celebration of the violence against women in it," she told the Los Angeles Times. "That's what comes across to me even more strongly than the anti-abortion message. I myself am a survivor of domestic violence, and I don't find it charming. I think CBS should be ashamed of itself."
Is she SERIOUS? This ad was in no way celebrated violence against women. The entire quote was pathetic--clearly she didn't see any of the Go Daddy ads that celebrated women as mere sex objects---so much more offensive than Tim Tebow tackling his mother, and yet there is no comment here, why? I'm confused. (Not the first time, certainly not the last.)
Each time I read her quote I get more fired up. We've got people starving, freezing, and lacking any type of home and she's wasting her time talking about this? I would have been far more impressed to hear her say something about how they don't agree with the ad, and are instead donating 2.5 million (the cost of an ad) to helping specifically women in Haiti. Figure it out---so much more would have come out of a move like that, but instead we have to bash others to feel better. Ugh. I'm sick of this already.
Thanks for letting me vent.
Three days until the Winter Olympics opening ceremonies. Woot.
Beck
Monday, February 8, 2010
Sap Central--It's the Olympics.
Good Things about the past few days.
1. Being snowed in (literally being UNABLE to get out of the driveway) made for a rousing bit for family time this weekend. It was lovely.
2. There are a mere 4 days until the Olympics. WOOT. I'm a huge fan. (More on this in a bit.)
3. Finishing a horrible run feels so accomplishing. Yea. (Small 'yea' it was still a bad run.)
Are you a crier?
I will freely admit to being a sap. I cry (frequently) during anything remotely sentimental. For instance, last week I watched Extreme Makeover Home about the teacher who has three girls and is dying of cancer. I blubbered through the 40 minutes on the elliptical and then looked at myself in the mirror----HELLO I had to leave to pick Nick up in 10 minutes and I looked like I'd been beaten. Good times.
The National Anthem (although I still advocate for a different song) gets me every time. The boys are always concerned--Why are you crying? And I try to explain what the song means, and why it's important--to a 5 and 3 year old. Please.
And now, it's the mother of all Becky Wever cry fests, the Olympics. It doesn't matter if it's ice dancing (which I love) or luge (which I don't)---if an American does well I'm proud. Heck, I'm proud they've made the necessary sacrifices to simply GET there--if they win and I watch the medal ceremony, I'm a mess. My mind runs quickly to that is someone's: son/daughter or husband/wife or grandchild--how incredibly proud those people must be at this moment (Go tears!). Can you even imagine? I CLEARLY understand this is an athletic competition, but to get to this place so much more goes into it. How much: money, time, hard work, injury, regret, determination does it take to get where they are today? I LOVE IT.
And those Opening Ceremonies, forget about it.
Get back to me this weekend and let me know if you shed a tear or two (or five hundred) during the Olympics.
And yes, for those of you who wondered, I totally cried when Drew Brees hoisted his one year old up with tears in his eyes last night. OF COURSE I DID--was there ever any doubt?
The Challenge, an update.
So far a few people have taken an active interest in my running challenge. I'd invite you all to post it---on facebook or somewhere else that you're willing to try it. I'm not saying you can't change your mind later, but I've found with my races once I tell someone else I'll do it I'm more accountable and I don't feel like I can bail out quite as easily later.
Tomorrow's Topic:
The Tim Tebow Commercial. (I love Tim, by the way.) Get your thoughts going on this one.
1. Being snowed in (literally being UNABLE to get out of the driveway) made for a rousing bit for family time this weekend. It was lovely.
2. There are a mere 4 days until the Olympics. WOOT. I'm a huge fan. (More on this in a bit.)
3. Finishing a horrible run feels so accomplishing. Yea. (Small 'yea' it was still a bad run.)
Are you a crier?
I will freely admit to being a sap. I cry (frequently) during anything remotely sentimental. For instance, last week I watched Extreme Makeover Home about the teacher who has three girls and is dying of cancer. I blubbered through the 40 minutes on the elliptical and then looked at myself in the mirror----HELLO I had to leave to pick Nick up in 10 minutes and I looked like I'd been beaten. Good times.
The National Anthem (although I still advocate for a different song) gets me every time. The boys are always concerned--Why are you crying? And I try to explain what the song means, and why it's important--to a 5 and 3 year old. Please.
And now, it's the mother of all Becky Wever cry fests, the Olympics. It doesn't matter if it's ice dancing (which I love) or luge (which I don't)---if an American does well I'm proud. Heck, I'm proud they've made the necessary sacrifices to simply GET there--if they win and I watch the medal ceremony, I'm a mess. My mind runs quickly to that is someone's: son/daughter or husband/wife or grandchild--how incredibly proud those people must be at this moment (Go tears!). Can you even imagine? I CLEARLY understand this is an athletic competition, but to get to this place so much more goes into it. How much: money, time, hard work, injury, regret, determination does it take to get where they are today? I LOVE IT.
And those Opening Ceremonies, forget about it.
Get back to me this weekend and let me know if you shed a tear or two (or five hundred) during the Olympics.
And yes, for those of you who wondered, I totally cried when Drew Brees hoisted his one year old up with tears in his eyes last night. OF COURSE I DID--was there ever any doubt?
The Challenge, an update.
So far a few people have taken an active interest in my running challenge. I'd invite you all to post it---on facebook or somewhere else that you're willing to try it. I'm not saying you can't change your mind later, but I've found with my races once I tell someone else I'll do it I'm more accountable and I don't feel like I can bail out quite as easily later.
Tomorrow's Topic:
The Tim Tebow Commercial. (I love Tim, by the way.) Get your thoughts going on this one.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Intern Dinner.
Good Things about today:
1. Intern dinner.
2. Dog walks.
3. Being able to run, even if the run was terrible.
Tonight think of 5 things you are thankful for--write them down. Remember them tomorrow. Here are mine.
1. An amazing family--from stem to stern I've been incredibly blessed.
2. A free country where we all may not agree, but are afforded the right to voice our opinions. (Although if you are of age and don't vote you should not complain.)
3. God and faith. Simple.
4. A warm house and food. It's cold and I'm so thankful for both.
5. Hopefully this doesn't seem trite--it's just one of those little things I am thankful for--my electric blanket. (All of the others seemed so big--this is something on a little level I love.)
Intern Dinner I adore it, but it's a lot of work--thus I'm whipped and will live to write another day.
Hope you have/had a great one today.
I've gotten two offers of acceptance on my challenge--Hilary and Lesley are up for it, anyone else got the guts to run?
God Bless.
Becky
1. Intern dinner.
2. Dog walks.
3. Being able to run, even if the run was terrible.
Tonight think of 5 things you are thankful for--write them down. Remember them tomorrow. Here are mine.
1. An amazing family--from stem to stern I've been incredibly blessed.
2. A free country where we all may not agree, but are afforded the right to voice our opinions. (Although if you are of age and don't vote you should not complain.)
3. God and faith. Simple.
4. A warm house and food. It's cold and I'm so thankful for both.
5. Hopefully this doesn't seem trite--it's just one of those little things I am thankful for--my electric blanket. (All of the others seemed so big--this is something on a little level I love.)
Intern Dinner I adore it, but it's a lot of work--thus I'm whipped and will live to write another day.
Hope you have/had a great one today.
I've gotten two offers of acceptance on my challenge--Hilary and Lesley are up for it, anyone else got the guts to run?
God Bless.
Becky
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
A numbers game.
Good things about today.
1. MSU/Wisconsin tonight. Big game, GO GREEN. (And for those who care, I hate the new logo; it's awful.
2. Soccer with the boys--adorable.
3. Long chat with my friend Denise who is going to have a baby by Monday. WOOT!
Weight.
For years I have been saying "the numbers on the scale don't matter, it's really about how my clothes fit." It's like that game you can play--tell yourself something enough times and you start to believe it. Well, I'm finally calling bullshit on myself. (Language police, sorry.) We can say it's not about the numbers all we want, shaking our heads in agreement, nodding as another member of the circle choruses her support, but GET REAL. On the Biggest Loser have you ever seen Gillian tell people to not worry about the ## on the scale, it's really about how your clothes fit? That would be a definitive no--she doesn't say it because at some point--a very real point, it truly IS about the numbers. When they change, up or down, it's a sign of what has been happening in our lives.
I completely understand that it's also about the inches lost, but to lose inches you have to lose numbers on the scale too. It's not rocket science.
It's also about being accountable, and for me this is tough. I've said it before, being accountable in the food department is the hardest part of the numbers game. Love the exercise--I feed off it actually (not really feed, because then I'd be full and would avoid cheese), but the food, that's another story.
Anyone have insight here? Oh, and so far no one has taken up the challenge....
Again, thanks for reading.
Becky
1. MSU/Wisconsin tonight. Big game, GO GREEN. (And for those who care, I hate the new logo; it's awful.
2. Soccer with the boys--adorable.
3. Long chat with my friend Denise who is going to have a baby by Monday. WOOT!
Weight.
For years I have been saying "the numbers on the scale don't matter, it's really about how my clothes fit." It's like that game you can play--tell yourself something enough times and you start to believe it. Well, I'm finally calling bullshit on myself. (Language police, sorry.) We can say it's not about the numbers all we want, shaking our heads in agreement, nodding as another member of the circle choruses her support, but GET REAL. On the Biggest Loser have you ever seen Gillian tell people to not worry about the ## on the scale, it's really about how your clothes fit? That would be a definitive no--she doesn't say it because at some point--a very real point, it truly IS about the numbers. When they change, up or down, it's a sign of what has been happening in our lives.
I completely understand that it's also about the inches lost, but to lose inches you have to lose numbers on the scale too. It's not rocket science.
It's also about being accountable, and for me this is tough. I've said it before, being accountable in the food department is the hardest part of the numbers game. Love the exercise--I feed off it actually (not really feed, because then I'd be full and would avoid cheese), but the food, that's another story.
Anyone have insight here? Oh, and so far no one has taken up the challenge....
Again, thanks for reading.
Becky
Monday, February 1, 2010
Cheese and a Challenge
Good things about today.
1. My run went very well--went in to do 4, finished 5 in 46 minutes.
2. Made excellent (and healthy) oatmeal blueberry muffins.
3. Read loads of books with Luke.
I started this blog almost a week ago to keep myself honest about my eating, weight, and exercise. So far I've written a couple entries about food, the rest have just been items on my mind. Today, we're back to where it started.
Food. I recall I said pizza was my vice--it is, but I noticed something much more scary this weekend. I cannot stop eating cheese--all kinds and varieties make my palette tingle. Yesterday I actually told Ben to physically remove the cheese from my sight, and I took the dog for a 30 minute walk. I knew I should stop, or at least slow down my intake--please, I think I looked like a vacuum, but I couldn't do it. Why? What power does cheese have over me? I have no idea, but it's clearly something I should be more conscience of daily. Daily, yes, daily--because here's the problem--we probably have pizza once every couple of weeks. As a vice, I adore it, but I can avoid it for 13 days. Cheese, however, is a different story. The dairy drawer in our fridge literally bursts with cheese. It doesn't help that today I went to Yutzy's (our local farm market) where they sell cheese ends--I buy them because they are perfect for casseroles and soups, that is if they ever make it home. Once I was in the car, without a second thought, I opened a package of cheese ends and ate with an almost reckless abandon. I've discussed my issues with self control before, but I'm not really sure I actually recognized it as a problem. Today, with the cheese, I clearly identified that it is, in fact, a problem, and it's one I'm going to have to work on if I want to shed the weight.
The educated inner me knows there is more to this than being hungry. If that's all it was, wouldn't a few bites have satisfied that craving and taken then edge off my hunger? What part of me feels the need to keep eating when I am CLEARLY not hungry?
On a lighter note, I ran 5 miles and THEN went to Yutzy's--so I made it there in all my sweaty gym glory. :)
Here's the challenge part for all of you readers. (It's a two parter, get ready.)
1. Identify your vice (or vices) and really work hard to figure out what is triggering the need to eat. I'll be slugging through the process too, you won't be alone.
2. Make the commitment to run/jog at least ONE race in the next 6 months. I'm not talking a marathon or even a half marathon here (although anyone who wants to run in Columbus with me May 1st is welcome to the guest bedroom.) I'm talking about committing to run or even run/walk a 5K or a 10K. Make the decision to do it, and I promise you will be able to accomplish it. I had never run a race (not even one) before I ran the April 2008 Half Marathon---NOTHING. I made the promise to myself that I would finish---there were no time goals associated with this race, I simply wanted to finish. Together we can all do this. Let me know if you accept the challenge. (For you Fremont readers isn't there on during Baby Food Festival?)
Who's in? Come on.....
God Bless.
Beck
Oh, and don't forget to make a trip to the library this week. :)
1. My run went very well--went in to do 4, finished 5 in 46 minutes.
2. Made excellent (and healthy) oatmeal blueberry muffins.
3. Read loads of books with Luke.
I started this blog almost a week ago to keep myself honest about my eating, weight, and exercise. So far I've written a couple entries about food, the rest have just been items on my mind. Today, we're back to where it started.
Food. I recall I said pizza was my vice--it is, but I noticed something much more scary this weekend. I cannot stop eating cheese--all kinds and varieties make my palette tingle. Yesterday I actually told Ben to physically remove the cheese from my sight, and I took the dog for a 30 minute walk. I knew I should stop, or at least slow down my intake--please, I think I looked like a vacuum, but I couldn't do it. Why? What power does cheese have over me? I have no idea, but it's clearly something I should be more conscience of daily. Daily, yes, daily--because here's the problem--we probably have pizza once every couple of weeks. As a vice, I adore it, but I can avoid it for 13 days. Cheese, however, is a different story. The dairy drawer in our fridge literally bursts with cheese. It doesn't help that today I went to Yutzy's (our local farm market) where they sell cheese ends--I buy them because they are perfect for casseroles and soups, that is if they ever make it home. Once I was in the car, without a second thought, I opened a package of cheese ends and ate with an almost reckless abandon. I've discussed my issues with self control before, but I'm not really sure I actually recognized it as a problem. Today, with the cheese, I clearly identified that it is, in fact, a problem, and it's one I'm going to have to work on if I want to shed the weight.
The educated inner me knows there is more to this than being hungry. If that's all it was, wouldn't a few bites have satisfied that craving and taken then edge off my hunger? What part of me feels the need to keep eating when I am CLEARLY not hungry?
On a lighter note, I ran 5 miles and THEN went to Yutzy's--so I made it there in all my sweaty gym glory. :)
Here's the challenge part for all of you readers. (It's a two parter, get ready.)
1. Identify your vice (or vices) and really work hard to figure out what is triggering the need to eat. I'll be slugging through the process too, you won't be alone.
2. Make the commitment to run/jog at least ONE race in the next 6 months. I'm not talking a marathon or even a half marathon here (although anyone who wants to run in Columbus with me May 1st is welcome to the guest bedroom.) I'm talking about committing to run or even run/walk a 5K or a 10K. Make the decision to do it, and I promise you will be able to accomplish it. I had never run a race (not even one) before I ran the April 2008 Half Marathon---NOTHING. I made the promise to myself that I would finish---there were no time goals associated with this race, I simply wanted to finish. Together we can all do this. Let me know if you accept the challenge. (For you Fremont readers isn't there on during Baby Food Festival?)
Who's in? Come on.....
God Bless.
Beck
Oh, and don't forget to make a trip to the library this week. :)
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