Well, the walk is NEXT FRIDAY! So far we have raised over $4800!! Thank you all so much.
This week has been a roller coaster. I’m frustrated, and overwhelmed trying to get ready – trying to figure out how to make our stuff fit into 2 duffel bags, how to get the airmattress, pump, and lantern, plus clothes, spare shoes, and toiletries into 2 bags. How to pack lightly while preparing for OHIO weather, which as most of you know.. is quite unpredictable. But all that aside… I’m on Day 3 of eating well.
I’m doing well, standing up to temptations – including a box of delicious looking brownies sitting on the counter, and a box of Nilla Wafers in the cupboard (2 Weeks from tomorrow and I will not have these temptations to worry about – because I’ll be in my own place, where I can control my environment!!)
Here’s what past few days have looked like:
Sunday:
Breakfast: 1 piece French Toast, scrambled eggs
Lunch: SmartOnes mini pizzas (1 serving)
Dinner: Subway 6 in Grilled Chicken, marinara, cheese, apples, and milk.
Snack: popcorn
Monday:
Breakfast: zone bar
Lunch: Salad with Light Ranch & Strawberry/Banana Smoothie (yogurt) at Bob Evans
Snack: Popcorn
Dinner: Lean Cuisine Microwave Dinner (chicken & fettuccine)
Late Night Snack: 2 mini bags of reduced fat Cheezits.
Tuesday:
Breakfast: zone bar
Lunch: Smart Ones Mac & Cheese
So that’s where I am now. Doing some paperwork to get these final donations entered, and paying bills. Going for a 4 mile walk later.
Where do I start? I guess the beginning is as good as anywhere -
FRIDAY
My Friday began with an interview that I am hoping went well. I spent the rest of the day visiting Walmart. No really- 3 times! I went hiking in Towner’s Woods. It was a pretty nice little park between Streetsboro and Kent. From their website:
Comprised of 175 acres of forest, wetlands, and meadows in Franklin Township, the park is the site of a 2000 year-old Hopewell Indian mound that overlooks Lake Pippen. In addition, Towner’s Woods boasts what many regard as one of the best cross-country skiing trails in Northeast Ohio and is adjacent to the PORTAGE Hike and Bike Trail.
I had a hard time finding all the trails that I wanted, so I didn’t quite get my 6 miles in like I had planned. It was incredibly hot out there, though. I did see several really neat animals, including an entire butterfly trail, a heron, a few squirrels, woodpeckers, and geese. I took several pictures that I will upload to sqpear.com as soon as I can. I also met a gentleman that told me about some other trails that I should check out.
After returning to the hotel, eating dinner, and getting cleaned up, I did some last minute studying for my Praxis exam that was on Saturday. (It was during this last minute relaxing study session that I realized the batteries were dead in my calculator and necessitated my THIRD trip to Walmart).
SATURDAY
The Praxis setup was a bit ridiculous. We met in one building for about 20 minutes then they escorted us to yet another building to the room where we were taking the test. The test itself wasn’t too bad (but I feel bad saying that — especially since I haven’t seen my results yet! – I’ve talked to many people who have take it several times) I’m pretty confident that I did ok, but I won’t know for sure on July 13 – or July 9 if I want to pay an additional $30. (I have to score 139 to pass – I think 200 is the highest)
After the test I headed to the Golf Course for the Brown Jug Tournament. This is essentially 20 women getting together for some friendly competition. This time it was Red vs Blue. I was on the Red team. I shot decently well Saturday, considering I’ve only played once this year (in April). I shot 42-43.
Our first nine was Best Ball (a team of two, you take the best score for the hole)
Our second nine was straight up match play.
We continued this tournament on Sunday. Sunday we played the first nine as alternate shot and the fourth as a two person scramble. I was on the winning team — we won by ONE!
Sunday morning, before heading out on the course, I walked down in the park for 3 miles. I was tired. It was humid. But 3 is better than 0.
The best news of the weekend is of course my weight total! I’m DOWN 1.6 LBS.!!!
Today I slept in. And yes, I’m not a morning person anyway.. but I still don’t want to sleep until NOON! I lost a few good hours of productivity but did manage to get some things done –
I rode the recumbent bike for 45 minutes which was about 9.3 miles.
I also spoiled myself and went for a massage. =) I also set up appointments for mom and I for Aug 2. (the day after the 3Day).
I tried another “new” food – Wendy’s BLT Salad with Grilled Chicken. It was actually quite tasty (after I took off the WHOLE cucumber that was on it)
This weekend is going to be crazy busy and I’m going to be computer free until at least Saturday night. I have a big meeting in the morning, then I’m heading to Twinsburg to deliver some books, stuffed animals, and blankets that the students and staff of Mespo collected to Project Night Night. Then I’ll be hiking in the area (6 miles). On Saturday morning I have my Math Praxis followed by 18 holes of Golf — the semi-annual Brown Jug Tournament at Bedford Trails. The Brown Jug continues on Sunday (after I walk 6 miles somewhere near home). Then classes start Monday. — Told ya! Crazy weekend!!
So yesterday I took the plunge. I jumped full force into my training. After several 3 mile hikes spread over 3 months, I decided I needed to push myself and get back on the real training schedule. I’ve adapted it to fit my schedule… but have all the “required” walks included. I’ll post the schedule soon, and you can RSVP to join me on the hikes you want to
Anyway I refused to let the rainy day ruin my walk, so I waited until 6pm and the weather was great. Humid! but sunny and at time had some great breezes. For those of you in my area… I walked from Western Reserve Rd to Shields and back again. Technically I started at the trailhead, hiked north to Herbert Rd (Shields) then headed South all the way to Western Reserve, then returned North to the trail end.
According to map my run it was actually 8.28 miles and it took me 3 hours and 13 minutes. But in that time includes a restroom stop, and a leisurely stroll through some of the areas, taking in the surroundings and taking some pictures. It’s hard to believe that some of these were taken right in this area. See all the photos here.
I learned(remembered) a few things on my hike.
20 miles is FAR. 8 miles had my muscles burning, and my feet hurting. I need to train A LOT MORE and A LOT MORE SERIOUSLY if I’m going to make it in July.
I need to find some new socks- and lots of them. My good running socks were cushy but almost too cushy, I think I need thinner socks — and several pairs to change them often. I’m thinking 5 miles is about the limit for my socks.
I love walking in nature. Watching the birds, bunnies, Texas Longhorn cattle, and gophers.
Unrelated to walking, but I remembered how much I LOVE taking photos of nature.
I love being outside. (keep reminding me of this if I talk about being in the basement too much!!)
Today was fairly productive. I got up early and spent two hours waiting for my car to be fixed (a recall), oil changed, and tires rotated. Then Dad and I went to lunch at Bob Evans. I found a new favorite meal there! I haven’t looked up the exact stats but I’m hoping it’s not too horrible:
A tossed salad with light ranch dressing
1/2 Slow-Roasted Turkey Bacon Melt (no tomato) – Slow-roasted turkey topped with American cheese, tomato and bacon on grilled sourdough
Tall glass of water
It was quite tasty!!
I looked up the nutritional facts: 1/2 Melt (including tomato) Calories:291
Carb: 24
Protein: 16
Fat: 14
Garden Salad (salad mix tomatoes & croutons) in parentheses is the Fresh Garden Salad -NO croutons Calories: 58 (15)
Carb: 9 (3)
Protein: 2 (1)
Fat: 1 (0)
Light Ranch Dressing (full serving) – I only used 1/2 at the most Calories: 110
Carb: 2
Protein: 1
Fat: 11
Total Meal as I can best figure that I actually ate:
Calories: 304 Carbs: 34 Protein: 18.5 Fat: 20.5
Next I went to Avenue and bought a few cute items for the Summer, including an interview I have on Friday.
I bought the tank & shrug. I'll wear it with a khaki skirt.
I then went to Giant Eagle and got some good healthy foods.. and the ingredients for my own alfredo sauce.
I am working on updating and recreating my photographic presence in the world. www.sqpear.com is still under construction but you can check it out.
I am quite pleased with my alfredo. The texture was kinda weird but it still tasted really good.
Hopefully the PinkPear Head has reappeared at the top of the webpage — I never meant to delete him… technical error!!
I didn’t get to walk today.. but am going for a long one tomorrow. Maybe even two! We’ll see how things go. I have a math praxis test on Saturday so that is still taking much of my time.
I started writing this blog by thanking the people who came to Handels and then I went into upcoming events. Then I realized that is the problem with the way these things are going. So I’m rewriting. If you’d like to see the Thank you or upcoming events, scroll down.
But what I really need to say is that I NEED HELP, and not the fundraising kind. (Obviously we always need that) but I’ve lost sight of the reason I took up this campaign. I wanted a large project to get me on track with my weight loss. I was going to train hard, work hard, eat right, and get skinny. Unfortunately, the task of having to raise almost $5000 has taken over. I’ve barely been getting out to walk, I’ve not been on the bike, my food has been atrocious. I’ve been too focused on how to raise this money, how to get people to come to events, and thinking of new and inventive ways to raise money. I enjoy throwing myself into projects, but now it’s time for the project to be ME.
I’m done giving in to everyone else. It’s time for me to be selfish. I need to be a spoiled brat and demand that the junk I can’t keep my hands off of, needs to stay OUT of the house. I need encouragement. I need motivation. I need kind nudging (or brutal– depending on the day) I need friends. I need supporters. I need teammates. NOT saboteurs. I hope you will join my team. That you will offer me the kick in the butt I need on lazy mornings when I don’t want to exercise. You’ll support me when I cave on a brownie and reassure me that it’s not a disaster as long as I jump right back on the horse. You’ll gently remind me that I haven’t updated my food log. You’ll also cheer me on as my weight goes down. You’ll give me a virtual high five on the days I eat perfectly in the zone. You’ll encourage me to drink more water, less pop, eat more of the better healthy choices and less of the “ok” foods. You’ll get excited with me when I walk a new farthest distance, or discover a cool new trail. (You might even volunteer to keep me company – if you live near by). Messages are welcomed in many forms — comments on the webpage, comments on my facebook page, comments on the PinkPear Facebook Page, text messages and emails to me, even a phone call occasionally =)
I created a few documents that I can update on my iphone. It’s time for me to become transparent. It’s time for everyone to know where I stand… where I need to go… and how to I’m getting there. I welcome you all to read these charts and visit them often. Since I am just starting with them, there isn’t much data in them yet, but come back and visit them often.
Exercise Log- There are separate tabs for walking and other activities. (EXERCISE LOG)
Weight Log- My goal weight for right now is 200. After I reach that, I’ll aim for 150. I’ve lost it before. I CAN do it again.(WEIGHT LOG)
Food Log- I’m following the Zone. I’m eating a 3 block breakfast, 3 block lunch, 2 block snack, 3 block dinner, and a 2 block snack.(FOOD LOG)
Ok now for those upcoming events and thank yous…..
Current Total – not including Handels, about $3000!!!
THANK YOU to everyone who came out to Handels on Thursday. I don’t have the numbers yet, but I’m hoping we did well. I’ll let you all know as soon as I know.
Upcoming Events:
The Rivers Casino Bus Trip – we have about 20 seats left!!! If you are interested you can find details here.
Our Garage Sale is also rapidly approaching. If you have items you would like to donate, please contact me. (any items not sold will be donated to local charities)
TODAY: Made 2 new friends (that have been there all along!)
Tonight was a good night. Actually the last two nights were pretty great. I had two birthday parties to go to…technically they are distant cousins – if you looked at the tree. Last night’s party was for my cousin’s (my Godmother) granddaughter. Tonight’s was for her son.
Why was it so great? Well, aside from screaming children — which is a necessity at all birthday parties — I got to reconnect with my cousin Jeff. He and his wife Jenn have gone through a lot of the same things I have. Dealing with parents, losing weight, juggling crazy jobs, and trying to eat right in a hectic world. As I write this, I imagine most people my age must deal with these issues. But it was nice knowing a few who have been successful and I think they will be a good support system and motivation for me. They have offered me their house if I need somewhere to escape to, and I’m pretty sure (given our conversation tonight) that they will be there to lend an ear or offer USEFUL advice.
So with that.. a true support system beginning to build — I also feel my motivation and resolve growing. I will get back on track. I will exercise more (walking and cardio) I will NOT eat fast food on my way home from work. I will start to cook more (or at least have more healthy food available). I have a wedding in three weeks. Lets see how great I can be till then. And by then it will be a habit right?I CAN DO THIS! I WILL MAKE A CHANGE! I have done it before. I have been successful. There is NOTHING preventing me from being successful again!!! (I’m going to start.. by going to bed, it’s late)
Happy Mothers Day to all the mothers out there! I hope you have a great day!
I know it’s been forever. I don’t know how to balance everything. And unfortunately the thing that seems to fall to the weighside (spelled wrong on purpose) is the most important thing!
I’ve been trying to get everything finalized for the golf outing. We are finally getting RSVPs in. I was worried for awhile. We have also finalized the dates for the Handels Spirit Night(June 3), The Rivers Casino Bus Trip(June 19), and the Garage Sale(June 25-27). I have a few other ideas in the back of my mind too!!
On Saturday my cousin and I went walking and I decided to try out my Shape Ups for a real walk. Not wise. Actually it wasn’t the shoe’s fault — I blame the sock. But regardless I have a hole in the back of my foot where my shoe was rubbing. It still hurts.
I have however decided that for my regular training and the walk itself, I will wear regular training shoes. I love the Shape Ups to keep training my calves extra on a daily basis but for the actual walk, the 20 miles are going to kill my calves, I don’t need my shoes ADDING to that!
Details for all events will be posted ASAP.
We also added a CART SPONSORSHIP option which is a mere $25 and you can have it say whatever you want (appropriate, of course).
Learn about our:
Merchandise & Candy
Golf Outing
Handels’ Spirit Night
Rivers Casino Bus Trip
Garage Sale
Sorry I haven’t been here lately. Life has been crazy.
I’ve been starting a new project for school, OAT Baseball. I’m excited about it, luckily MOST of the work is done from last year, but I still have plenty to get ready. In addition at school we’ve been studying the Olympics, so it’s been rough trying to keep caught up with current events.
So in real Pear News. Food has been going decently well. I weighed in on Monday morning and was down over 2 pounds. That makes me happy and helps me stay on track. I also went on my first TRULY 3 Mile walk. I’m short (5’3″) so my nike+ sensor hadn’t been calibrated on my last walk. Yesterday I calibrated it and went a FULL 3 miles. It took almost exactly an hour.
The Zone has been working out well as far as food. While the Zone does not require food to be “pieced” I like eating that way. What do I mean? I mean – I can grab some strawberries, a few shrimp, a few pistachios, and a glass of milk. I don’t have to worry about making a full entree, I can grab and go. Like this morning, when Mom woke me up at the moment I was supposed to be leaving for work, I was able to grab enough odds and ends to make a proper meal. (yogurt, apple, cheese, & banana)
Events. Mom and I have been planning several new events. Details will be coming soon. I’m excited. But still exhausted, so I’m now heading to bed.
I had forgotten why I loved walking (jogging) outside. Today’s walk reminded me. It was a very brisk 36 degrees when I left the house. My goal was to walk my “easy 3 miles” that was the training for today. Well when it’s only 36 it’s kinda tough to take a light stroll, so I’m sure I pushed myself a little more than I was supposed to. But the views were gorgeous. I have a park right by my house and I hiked down to the walking trail. The exhilaration that comes from walking in the cold makes me understand why the Winter Olympians might be willing to deal with the crazy weather to compete. The cold wakes you up- it makes you feel alive- it gives you energy — it makes you want to move! (and it’s always great to get the benefit of sweating without being hot!) Of course I was also listening to my favorite band, Great Big Sea- and my favorite songs of theirs. The park was near empty so it was very quiet. In fact so quiet that I almost missed the 6 deer that were munching near by. That’s right – SIX. Can you see them all?
Yes, I know it's blurry - I was moving...
I was pleased with my first day of official training – 50.05 mins, 3 miles.
Food wise – today was ok. I didn’t eat anything I wasn’t supposed to, however I didn’t eat everything that I WAS supposed to. My stomach is kinda feeling weird right now.. but I’m hoping a good night’s sleep will cure whatever it is. My feet are a bit tender. I injured the soles of my feet on Dec 26. This is the first time since Jan 2 that I’ve tested them out. I think I’ll be doubling my socks from now on.
I think I’m long overdue for an “early to bed” night. So goodnight.
p.s. I’m so excited – I’m up to 39 fans on Facebook for my PinkPear Page!
Follow Me
It was actually quite tasty (after I took off the WHOLE cucumber that was on it)
You can see more photos on my 
and not the fundraising kind. (Obviously we always need that) but I’ve lost sight of the reason I took up this campaign. I wanted a large project to get me on track with my weight loss. I was going to train hard, work hard, eat right, and get skinny. Unfortunately, the task of having to raise almost $5000 has taken over. I’ve barely been getting out to walk, I’ve not been on the bike, my food has been atrocious. I’ve been too focused on how to raise this money, how to get people to come to events, and thinking of new and inventive ways to raise money. I enjoy throwing myself into projects, but now it’s time for the project to be ME.
I’m done giving in to everyone else. It’s time for me to be selfish. I need to be a spoiled brat and demand that the junk I can’t keep my hands off of, needs to stay OUT of the house. I need encouragement. I need motivation. I need kind nudging (or brutal– depending on the day) I need friends. I need supporters. I need teammates. NOT saboteurs. I hope you will join my team. That you will offer me the kick in the butt I need on lazy mornings when I don’t want to exercise. You’ll support me when I cave on a brownie and reassure me that it’s not a disaster as long as I jump right back on the horse. You’ll gently remind me that I haven’t updated my food log. You’ll also cheer me on as my weight goes down. You’ll give me a virtual high five on the days I eat perfectly in the zone. You’ll encourage me to drink more water, less pop, eat more of the better healthy choices and less of the “ok” foods. You’ll get excited with me when I walk a new farthest distance, or discover a cool new trail. (You might even volunteer to keep me company – if you live near by). Messages are welcomed in many forms — comments on the 
