It's decided...

I just withdrew from teacher training. Four months of stress and chaos isn't how I want to do my teacher training. So I won't.

Jasper is great, but COLD! I haven't been brave enough to check the wind chill this morning.

S. survived meeting my big bro (he's 6'5" and more than a little intimidating), SIL and niece. We went to a great place for dinner where lobster and shrimp were devoured by most.

Off to make some oats (we have a kitchenette) and then find some milk for chai!

Enjoy the last day of 2009!

H-woman =)

p.s. Happy Birthday, Dad! RIP.

Confusion Reigns Supreme

I'm so confused! What to do, what to do?!

Over an hour on transit, at night, in the winter holds absolutely no appeal to me. I also can't make it to and from work in time on days where I work late (or have yoga during the day and have to work at night). Shit! Am I looking for an excuse just not to do this? I don't think so.

I would not commit to this training until I knew where it would be so that I knew I could get there easily. They've known for at least two weeks that the location they gave me was not where it was going to be. And they've given me a week (during the holidays no less) to figure out what to do. How do I know this? Well, the chica who I spoke to on the phone told me and then I got an email from the other chica telling me that since they gave me incorrect info, they would refund my entire deposit. Deposits don't get refunded in full when there's less than a week before class starts!

Arrrrgh! I also don't want to be completely reliant on someone else (and that's assuming I can find someone to carpool with) twice a week for four months! It would be different if we were sharing the driving, but all I can offer is money for gas. That's the control freak in me coming out....

My mom's suggestion was to take the money I would've spent and put it in the bank and wait. Another opportunity will come up and then the money will be there.

So I guess I need to sit on my mat for a bit and see what comes to me...or what comments you leave!

What would you do?

AAARRRRRRGGGGGGGHHHHHH!

Just got an email about teacher training (starts next Monday). THEY CHANGED THE FREAKING LOCATION!!! Instead of being downtown (minutes from work, in fact, so very easily within walking distance for me) they've now moved it into the freaking suburbs! After I called twice and emailed once to confirm the location all BEFORE I committed.

I want to do this training BUT using transit for over an hour each way on top of four hour training sessions and having to be at work for 6 am the next morning....sheesh. What do I do?!?

What does this mean?
Is this the wrong training for me?
Is Nora the wrong teacher?
Maybe I'm not ready for teacher training yet.
Is this a lesson for them and not me?

Aaaaarrrrgh!

I mean, ooooohhhhmmmmm......

Monday Mayhem

Whew! Finally....a chance to breathe!

I started my day with a 50 minute yoga practice and now I've got yoga brain. I love it! Santa brought me a prepaid Visa card to buy some new yoga clothes for my teacher training. As much as I love Lulu, I can probably get more pieces at Costco. Definitely something to ponder. Do I dare brave the crowds at Costco? Or just walk down the street to Lulu?

My to-do list today includes much cleaning: the kitchen, living room, laundry, bathroom. My house looks like a bomb went off and while I'm no Martha Stewart when it comes to house cleaning, even I have a limit!

I went for a run yesterday. I had to drag my ass out the door, though! Since I hadn't run since the 20th (yes, a whole week--so much for my activity getting me through the Christmas week without a gain), I was good with 40 minutes (my longest scheduled run during the week). I hit 20, the half way mark, and was feeling great, so I kept going! I'd slept in a little though, so I knew I couldn't go much longer than an hour. 1 hour, 1 minute and 1 second later, I'd logged 7.78k and burned 624 calories. Not bad considering I didn't think I'd make 40 minutes!

Total kilometres ran so far: 145.69. Holy moly, Batman!!

This week's goals:
-drink more water!
-enjoy all Jasper has to offer: skiing (downhill and x-country), snowshoeing, shopping, hiking

Have a fabulous Monday!

The Aftermath...

Well, it wasn't that bad!

Santa was incredibly generous. Ate way too much. Didn't drink enough. Lemme tell ya--singing "Happy Birthday" to Jesus was a little too much! And wearing happy birthday party hats, no less. Sheesh. Oh well, two minutes of my life I'll never get back, but the story will live on forever!

Worked today. And tomorrow. A day off and then one more shift till Jasper. I braved Coast Mountain Sports today to see if I could find a fabulous new ski jacket and pants. No luck with the jacket, but I scored a sweet deal on a pair of Columbia ski pants.

And with that, I'm going to go heat up some dal and chug some more water (you know it's bad when you CRAVE water).

=)

It's Christmas Eve!

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Nog
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just set them under the tree? Santa does not have time to wrap.
3. Coloured lights on tree/house or white? I like the old school mixed up coloured lights.
4. Do you hang mistletoe? Nope.
5. When do you put your decorations up? Not before Dec. 1. EVER.
6. What is your favourite holiday dish? Stuffing.
7. Favourite Holiday memory as a child? The year Mom and Dad wouldn't get out of bed so Scott and I carried all of the presents to their room. We unwrapped on their bed.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? My brother. With the wisdom only an 8 year old can possess, "H-woman, think about it: Santa, the tooth fairy, the Easter bunny--they all write JUST LIKE MOM!"
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Nope.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? An eclectic collection--I try to add a new one every year.
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Love it in the mountains. Not on streets or sidewalks.
12. Can you ice skate? You betchya! We used to live beside a big slough and a river--there was always skating. But no girly figure skates. Hockey skates all the way!
13. Do you remember your favourite gift? Too many...but the year my brother moved away from home, he bought me a stuffed dog--Pooch Patrol. A black Doberman named Midnight. He's still on guard in my closet.
14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Family. And food.
15. What is your favourite Holiday Dessert? Hmmm...pumpkin pie and Auntie Shirley's three layer jello salad
16. What is your favourite holiday tradition? Stockings.
17. What tops your tree? An angel that was made by a neighbour
18. Which do you prefer: giving or receiving? I know the politically correct answer is giving (which I like to do, don't get me wrong) but really, who doesn't love presents?!
19. What is your favourite Christmas Song? Grandma got run over by a reindeer, O Holy Night by John Berry is amazing, but this year, I've got new favourites from the Christmas Carol Project: Bah Hum Bug and God Bless Us Everyone.
20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? Yuck. I'm a caramel girl all the way.

And with that, I'm off to change out of my work clothes and hope that Visine will soothe these tired eyes. Wishing you all the Merriest of Christmases! I hope that wherever you are, you are safe and with the people you love.

Merry Happy Ho Ho!

p.s. Thanks Jessica, for letting me borrow your survey!

Is it Friday yet?

No? Almost, though!

My list from yesterday:
bake the cookies I mixed up last night: DONE. 5 dozen triple ginger gingersnaps. YUM.
have a bath: DONE. Soaked in RMSC Sore Muscle Soak while reading Impact magazine.
go to bed: DONE. By 2130h, no less!

Today:
MUST. WRAP. PRESENTS.

TTFN!

Last minute thought: I have eaten vegetarian for the last two days! I like it!

Tired Tuesday

I know I've been trying really hard not to use that word, but today's just been one of those days.

I bailed on my run. It's cold. It's dark. I'm tired. I need to make cookies. All excuses, I know. Oh, and spending the time to put my hair in rollers before I go to work is pointless--my hair + humidity at work = flat hair. *le sigh*

My plan for the night: bake the cookies I mixed up last night, have a bath, go to bed.

Good family news today: SIL passed her big exam so no more cranky pants at their house! It's a big coup, as only 44% of people who wrote the exam passed. She's a smart cookie, that one. =)

Second batch of good news: fancy schmancy city lawyer (as opposed to small town cousin lawyer) called--court date for discoveries booked in June. Justice will finally be served!

When do the days start getting longer?! I'm ready to hibernate!

Day of Rest

And man, do I ever need it!

I got up this morning and finished the last of my cards and wrapped Mom's stocking up. I hit the post office just after 9 and $40 in postage later...

I'm finishing up some laundry that I started yesterday, but it's snowing outside and I have to go out there to get to the boiler room (where the washer/dryer are...ONLY downside of my fabulous house). I obviously learned lots at Excuses Be Gone!

I've been catching up on Coronation Street and have a big pot of pasta sauce (onion, red, yellow & orange pepper, 'shrooms, zuke, garlic, 28 oz tomatoes, tomato sauce and tomato paste along with some basil, oregano, 2 TB brown sugar and Arrabbiata spice from Epicure, plus some vino) simmering away to make a veggie lasagna later. Oh yeah, there's some TVP (textured vegetable protein) in there too.

A nap is in order pretty soon, je pense and then I might break out my knitting.

For anyone in Calgary that reads this, go see The Christmas Carol Project!! It's in it's 14th year, but first time in Calgary. It's a musical interpretation of the classic. Seriously, it was like being at Folk Fest in the dead of winter! All of us (me and S, and the rest of my Folk Fest family) LOVED it!! And take something for the Food Bank--there are too many people in this city that use it and shouldn't have to in a province this rich.

Happy Monday!

Garmin says:

11.12 km
829 calories
1:35:07

This puts me at Popkum Rd overpass, Exit #138 to Bridal Veil Falls along the Trans Canada.

Had a great run--big snowflakes started to fall just as I was heading out, so it was really a winter wonderland out there. There weren't many people, so it was nice just to enjoy the reasonably warm temperature and the snow melting on my tongue!

I've got one load of dishes done and laundry is sorted. Of course, it's in the tub, so I need to do it before I can take a shower!

And I'm going to have a Sunday nap today!! I don't remember the last time I had one, so today's the day. Oh, and I journalled everything I ate yesterday and this morning. Baby steps, people. Baby steps.

Have a great day...only 5 more sleeps!

I know you're out there somewhere...

Someone recently posted a picture of the alarm clock they bought their significant other for Christmas--it gradually lightens the room to simulate dawn.

Who was it?

Which clock was it?

I can't remember, nor did I bookmark! Help a girl out!

Does anybody know?

If you can download music that's only available on myspace? If you can, how do I do it?

Finally!

My stretch of work is OVER!! I know now that working part time is the BEST decision I have ever made. Here's why I don't work full time anymore:

-I'm exhausted. Short shifting plus six days in a row + loud neighbours = not much sleep.
-My house looks like a tornado hit. I hate this kind of chaos.
-Laundry has piled way too high. I despise laundry.


On to better news:
-Christmas shopping DONE!! (I also called S. after work and guess where he was? Yep, that's right! Shopping!! I knew he wouldn't wait till the 24th.)

-Down 2 pounds this morning!! Almost made it back to the 170's. Next week for sure. I pulled out my journal. There was nothing written since Tuesday's breakfast. I'm shocked by the scale, to say the least. Nevertheless, I will take it and run with it (pun intended).

-Scheduled for an 11K long, slow run tomorrow. Can't wait! Forecast is perfect for running: Cloudy. 60 percent chance of snow late in the morning and in the afternoon. Fog patches dissipating in the morning. Temperature steady near minus 8. Perfect.

-Going to see The Christmas Carol Project tomorrow with my Folk Fest family. Dinner first at The Broken Plate. Haven't seen Bill & Joanie since Alli & PK's wedding last September, so it'll be great to catch up with them.

-I can sleep in on Monday! I know my idea of sleeping in isn't very late, but oh, what I would give to not be rudely awakened by an alarm clock just once this week!

And with that, I'm going to go heat up some of the corn chowdah I made earlier this week and have a cup of mulled cranberry & apple juice. A nice, long soak in the tub and I'm calling it a day.

Oh, by the way, I went with bulgur, not orzo. More fibre and easier. A cop-out, I know, but still.

And Santa came to my house early! He spotted some fabulous hot rollers on sale at Shopper's Drug Mart on Thursday and I picked them up for him on Friday after work. You didn't really think the old man had time to shop and deliver this close to Christmas, did you?!

Six more sleeps!

Fly-by Friday

Not much new here. Work, sleep, eat. Repeat. Thank God I've got today and tomorrow and that's it! Two days off to recover (and wrap, and go out and see old friends, and bake cookies, finish Christmas cards, make Folk Fest 2009 compilation cd's....). OK, maybe there won't be a lot of recovery.

Anywhoo...off to work now (0530h) so I'll check in later. M's coming over to celebrate completing her exams (she's in med school--I'm so proud!) and I'm cooking a Mediterranean Tilapia dish. Not sure what to serve as a side though--orzo or bulgur?

Thoughts?

p.s. Shirls, I'm so glad that your mom is a good cook. I know that there had to be someone other than Nigella and Jamie! ;-)

Callin' it a day!

I know, it's barely 7 o'clock MST, but I'm absolutely knackered!

I came home and ate the remaining brie/cranberry sauce dip from Monday night. Yum! Remind me to run tomorrow, because I sure didn't today. After a chat on the phone with my mom, I whipped up a magnificent concoction (sorry, I ate it before realizing I should have taken a photo):

-sauteed 1/4 onion and 1/2 yellow pepper in 1 tsp oil
-added leftover bruschetta and 12 raw shrimp
-poured on some leftover pinot grigio
-added some spinach till just wilted

Served over 1 cup of cooked 'sghetti. I split it in half and also have lunch made for tomorrow!

Christmas dinner plans are finally finalized! Apparently the packing has began at the in-laws already, so we're having dinner at a lovely hotel in the city! Yaaaay! There won't be 4 hours of winter driving involved, nor bad cooking (dear that she is, S's mom can't cook worth a hoot. She's British and is the stereotypical bad cook)! Now, if I can convince S to do his shopping prior to Christmas Eve, that means we can have some serious Christmas quality time!

'night!

Great run!

Just got back and am now running around like the proverbial headless chicken. Shower, lunch, pack dinner for work, blah blah blah.

Scarfing down the last of the pho--it's super yummy but messy (bean sprouts and noodles need to be cut next time).

I've already shut off the garmin (thank god I found it!!) but I did 5K in 40 minutes (3 min running: 2 min walking). I feel great! The weather was perfect--about -15C and little, if any, wind. The new shoes are bright and shiny and perfect. My feet are happy which makes my knees happy which make my hips happy which ultimately makes my back happy. It's win win.

Now, if I can make it out of the house without caving in to the various forms of cheese in my house whispering my name....yeah, that whole break up hasn't gone so well!

Crazy week has begun!

I was up at 4 yesterday (I don't sleep when I work the 6 o'clock shift, it's like I'm afraid I'll miss my alarm or something) and had a brutal day at work. I had to do maintenance on the machine that is my nemesis (mostly because I never get to work on it, which makes me not like it more). I have only done this type of maintence ONCE before (while I was training, so really, I watched someone do it) and guess when that was? Yep. You guessed it: JUNE. Neither the instrument manual or our procedure manual gives enough direction to be able to do it without assistance from someone who knows what they're doing. This in itself makes me livid. I am an intelligent, educated woman. Give me good directions and I'll be fine. But two books that together can't give me what I need and I start to seethe. The topper on the day? When N. came to help reassemble the machine and water started to spew from places it wasn't supposed to. Six techs all stand around the machine:
"Have you ever seen it do that?"
"Nope, I've never seen that. You?"
"I have never seen water do that before. I'm sure I would have noticed that!"
So as I was leaving (almost an hour late), the service guy was being dispatched. I don't imagine they'll be very happy since they were there twice on Friday, got the machine up and running (it worked like a dream all weekend) and then what do we do on Monday? Rip the f&*$@ing thing apart because the calendar says it's due for monthly maintenance. But whatever!

Party at my house last night was good--lots of food left, though!! Is it wrong to have leftover baked brie & homemade cranberry sauce on a baguette for breakfast? I didn't think so, either.

I work evening shift tonight, then days through till Saturday. Keep in mind that I only work 4 days a week, so to work 6 in a row is likely to send me over the edge. Prepare yourselves for ranting, as it's quite likely to happen. =)

Had to reschedule my hair appointment to Thursday night. I don't know that I can wait that long, though. The sparkly bits are awfully sparkly!!

It's a balmy -19C out there! Too bad the wind chill makes it -28C. Brrr...I'll wait for a bit before I run, I think. Worst case scenario, I run tomorrow once the chinook comes (forecast says -12C with wind tomorrow morning).

I made pho!

Or something very close to it!!

In a big stock pot, bring to a boil:
1 tetra pack of low sodium chicken broth
4 cups water
big chunk of ginger (peeled)
2 kaffir lime leaves
2 TB fish sauce

Add:
3 small julienned carrots
1 baby bok choy, julienned
1/2 red pepper, julienned
1/4 large onion, thinly sliced half moons
1 small zuchinni (sliced in half, then in half moons)
1 cup sliced 'shrooms
1/2 bag of seafood medley (shrimp, calamari, clams) thawed
2 heaping tsp Epicure Thai seasoning

Throw in some rice vermicelli noodles. Serve over bean sprouts. I meant to squeeze some lime juice in it, but was too lazy to cut the lime. Next time!

I ate it before I got a photo, sorry! This soup has some kick!

How do people do it?

Run on a treadmill, that is. Egad! I made it for 75 minutes, but wowsers. I forgot my iPod, which certainly didn't help. I ran 8.8 km on the treadmill + 1.8 km there and back. Good enough for me!

I'm now at the exit for the Chilliwack Airport. Are there any flights going somewhere warm? I'm not picky!

I must be crazy!

It's -29C (-42C with the wind) and I'm going out in it! Walking 0.9km to the big gym by my house to run on the treadmill (or the track, but I don't like running in circles). Egad.

Brunch with my fave peeps, S & L and my S at 1130. I need to bake L some more cookies since the Cookie Monster mysteriously broke into my house and ate the last ones! L is my biggest fan when it comes to cookies (gingersnaps, especially). I can get pretty much whatever I want if there are cookies involved. =P

Did a HUGE grocery shop last night and $403 later...I have a fridge and freezer full of food. Overnight I made a chicken taco soup in the crock pot (onion, celery, red pepper, drained and rinsed black beans & red kidney beans, 1 TB chili powder, 1 TB Epicure Taco Seasoning, 1 can kernel corn, 1 skinless bone-in chicken breast and a 28 oz can of diced tomatoes with a sploosh of chicken broth). My house smells soooooo good, I need to get out of here! I'll take the chicken off the bone and shred it when I get home from my run.

After brunch, I'm going to make another vat of pasta sauce to use in veggie lasagna (I'm going to use sliced zucchini instead of noodles) and a batch of meatballs. I also bought the ingredients for corn chowdah (I may add a can of crab, too). I've got a crazy week ahead of me: 6 shifts in a row (I usually only do 4) AND a short shift (evenings to days) right smack in the middle. I've also got a bunch of people coming over on Monday night for our work Christmas party. EGAD!

Must run now...I'll let you know how it goes. Keep warm, wherever you are!

I am a winter wimp

I'm not sure when it happened, but I've become a winter wimp! Tomorrow I'm going to run indoors, although in my own defense, I'm testing out new runners and if they don't work, they'll be pristine enough to return.

Went for coffee with the girls this morning. My scale was up just a smidge. It wasn't a surprise, since nothing was tracked in my journal since Dec. 8. That was Tuesday. I'm back on track this morning though, so next week will have a very different result, I'm sure. (The four gingersnaps have been dutifully recorded and the remainder packed up to give away!)

We're supposed to go to a house party tonight and then S. has to work, but it's freaking freezing out there: -27C. I don't want to bail on the party, but I also don't want to be out in that if it all possible. Brunch tomorrow morning should be interesting as we're supposed to get another dump of snow tonight. And it's not even technically winter yet!!

Who pissed off Mother Nature so badly and how can we make it up to her?!

On a much happier note, I found my Garmin!!!

TGIF!

Was it just me, or did this week seem to take forever?!

Quick recap:

Wednesday--S's 10 minute drive from his work to my house turned into 90+ minutes. Traffic in Calgary was NUTSO on Wednesday. We missed the wine tasting/book reading and went to Wildwood for dinner instead. Mmmmm...Strongbow, shared hot wings, and lamb meatloaf with mashed spuds.

Thursday--borrowed the new Harry Potter dvd (blu-ray)from a work colleague. Went for NOODLES at my fave noodle house (Vietnam Fortune on Kensington Road). Beef sate soup with extra veggies. Baked up some triple ginger gingersnaps at S's (he is in awe of my cooking prowess--I like it!!) and watched the movie. Well, he watched the movie, I apparently fell asleep half way through. Good thing we saw it in the theatre! Can't wait for November 2010 and July 2011 for the last two.

Today--worked. Bought some of S's Christmas present (the pricey wine from the food & wine festival). Came home and went for a run (it's -12C and snowing; with wind chill, it's -18C). I had a pretty good run, except my ass got cold again. I tried wearing my long johns under my tights but it didn't help much. Stopped at my fave local running store THE TECH SHOP 'cause there's a SALE on right now! They're moving across the street and I scored a new pair of shoes for 20% off. Anytime I can get shoes for less than $150, I'm a happy girl. =)

On tap for tonight: Christmas cards, thank you cards for the Underwear Affair (6 months after the event) and hopefully some knitting.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

Or Winter war-zone, which ever you prefer. Seriously, if you own a business, one would think you'd clear the walk so as not to cause bodily harm to the customers you want to spend money in your store. Or maybe it's just me.

The snow we got over the weekend (and it started again today--oh joy!) is a slippery mess to walk on. Oh well, walking to work has now become a work out!

Waiting for S. We're supposed to be heading to a wine and literary pairing shindig tonight, but traffic in this town has been frightful since 3:30 when I came home. Steve left work half an hour ago and hasn't moved very far or fast since. We may just be going for dinner instead!

Either way, I've got makeup on and curled my hair so am good to go.

New job opportunity at work came up today.
PROS:
-no weekends (unless big project launch)
-set schedule (M-F, 8-4)
-new position so there are no shoes to fill

CONS:
-real possibility of taking work home with me
-full time vs current part time
-much paper pushing

So I'm pondering....I may just apply to see if my current bosses figure out that unless they do something about the schedule, they're going to start losing the good techs. Then again, they may miss that point altogether since they're pretty oblivious.

I Lurve Days Off!

Slept in.

Had a great visit with my friend, Jen and baby G.

Went directly to Original Joe's for lunch and visit with April. Lived vicariously through her as I perused her two scrapbooks from her trip to the UK this summer. *sigh* Must get S. on a plane!!

Headed downtown to pick up thank you's for the Underwear Affair (yes, I KNOW they're 6 months late), some photos for Christmas prezzies and our Christmas card for those who don't appreciate a hand made card.

Stopped at Safeway for dinner and lunch fixings.

Started laundry.

Headed out for my run. It was one of those ones that sucked the whole time. I didn't do what was scheduled: my knee, hip, and shins were protesting from yesterday's walk in the boots. I ran when I could and walked the rest. I was 10 minutes short of what was scheduled, but at least I got out. Came back in and did some weights: squats, lateral raises, shoulder and chest presses, abs, bicep curls, and rows.

Dinner was pub fare at home:

El Molino Fibre Select chips
generous 1/2c of refried beans heated with some salsa
1/4 c finely shredded tex-mex cheese
extra salsa on the side

I was going to have a cider too, but apparently my sun room is colder than I thought. It was frozen solid! I guess an after dinner drink will be in order instead.

Christmas cards and thank you's are on the agenda for tonight. In between laundry loads, of course. =P

So much for day of rest!

Monday is my scheduled rest day from running. Or it's supposed to be!

I was sitting in the lunch room about to enjoy my snack (leftover brekkie--bulgur, plain yogurt, peanut butter and homemade applesauce) when I realized that I didn't remember turning the burner off under the applesauce. I remembered turning it down, but not OFF. Shoot!

So the boots went back on and home I speed walked (home to work and home again is 3.68 km). Got home and realized that as cute and warm as the Sorels are, they are NOT meant for walking! I can't get my orthotics in 'em so my feet were killing me. Not to mention the bruise I somehow acquired (I think I did 'em up too tight) on my shin. I changed into my runners for the walk back to work.

And the burner?








Off. But I'm now in Chilliwack!

Not the best photo...

but it's the only one we've got!



There was no photographer at the party, so we moved furniture around my house when we got home and set the timer on the camera and used the cupboard shelf that my plates sit on as a tripod. Then the batteries died and I didn't have more. Not the best angle (I think I look preggo, not exactly flattering), but what's a girl to do?

Dinner was good, but incredibly late. Like over an hour! Did I mention this was a family friendly party? No? Well, the kids were getting close to their witching hour (so was I, thank God for open bar) by the time the food made it to the table. Didn't exactly make for relaxing pre-dinner drinks. Anyway, we'll definitely go back, but on a night when it
(a) isn't -30C and
(b) is just us!

Off to work. No wind this morning, but it's still -26C. Time to break out the Sorel's to keep my toes warm, me thinks!

Brrr!

The windchill let up a bit, so I headed out for a long run. It wasn't the scheduled 8K, but 5.71 km with a -29C windchill is good enough!

Apparently it was so cold my heart rate monitor wouldn't even work. Either that or I'm dead. =P

Lentil chili for lunch, a warm bath and then the primping begins!

Awwwww.....

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse....

WI Results

180.8

With all of the evilness of the cookie exchange surrounding me, I'll take it!

Christmas goal is 175.

I'd also like my ski pants to fit again. It makes the ride up the chair lift much more bearable (for everyone) if:
(a) there is no camel toe
(b) I can breathe without the ass of my pants busting open
(c) I can get the pants done up in the first place

The run is postponed for the day. I don't run when the windchill dips below -30C. Weather Network says it's currently -18C with light snow and windchill of -31C. Guess there's no excuse not to get the house cleaned, laundry done and get beautiful by 5!

Maybe I'll do an inside workout...we'll see how ambitious I get! Happy Sunday. Keep warm and cozy, wherever you are!

Cha Ching!!

Overtime!! Gotta love that at this time of year! And also when you're only scheduled as 0.7 in the pay period (I should have had one more shift, but for some unknown reason, got short shifted this time around and an extra one next pay period) and it's the season for buying things for people (ahem...I may have gone a little overboard on S...but I've found all of these PERFECT things!).

Disappointed that my trudge today only burned 183 calories. Didn't even make a dent in the number consumed (evil cookie exchange), but it's all good. We had a great team in and got everything done that we needed to.

I came home & shovelled out the back door--it was drifted in--I couldn't get out! Good thing I've also got a front door! While doing that, I had some leftover pasta sauce and 4 meatballs heating in the toaster oven (in the new Epicure dip baker). Yummy. I measured out a cup of s'ghetti (I haven't been measuring lately, but think I should start again) and added half of the sauce and balls. Still a little growly in my tummy, so I ate the rest of the sauce and balls sans sauce. It's all veggies and lean protein, after all! Oh, and there may have been some Merlot.

The rest of my evening is going to be pretty chilled. I think a soak in the tub and some knitting may be in order.

Tomorrow's the big party and my girl-y friend is going to come over and help me primp. I'm thinking hot rollers to get lots of curls and then pinned up with my bangs swept to the side...what do you think? I've also got laundry to do...but we all know how much laundry and I don't get along, so we'll see. I still have clean clothes to wear to work....

And the training schedule says 8K...*gulps*...Environment Canada says:

Cloudy with 60 percent chance of flurries. Wind north 30 km/h becoming light in the afternoon. Temperature falling to minus 21 in the afternoon. Wind chill minus 30.

Hmmm...guess bundling up is in order!

Cancelled!

The snow day that me and Nerm had planned for today, that is! Just got a call from work--two people are stuck in the 'burbs and can't get to work. One more reason to walk to work, people!

So I need to eat, make a quick lunch (good thing there's leftovers) and hop in the shower before I TRUDGE to work. I live a block away from a shopping district, so chances are good that the majority of the sidewalks will be sort of clear. I hope!

Good luck to all in the Santa Shuffle!

p.s. I'm going to wear my heart rate monitor just to see how many calories I burn trudging!

Snowy Friday!

Winter has arrived! Here's the view from my back door about an hour ago. I decided to go for a run early and am sure glad that I did!



I logged 5.08K this morning (that included my 10 minute cool down to go & fetch the party dresses!) I have ran over 100K since October 5. Not bad, if I do say so myself!

Speaking of the party dresses, here they are:


Turquoise silky number (and the Spanx will make that tummy roll disappear!)


Fabulous Jones New York Retro Print

And the shoes:



Classic black pumps for the green & Purple Audley's for the retro dress

Sooooo.....which one should I wear on Sunday to S's company Christmas party?

Remember how I told you I lost Nerm awhile ago? Well, here's her new secret hiding place:

Where to start?

I should be getting ready for work. I'm still in my jammies. I'll eat lunch and then do it.

I have pink eye. Confirmed by doctor yesterday. I'm not to be surprised if I get yet another cold, either. Sheesh! Enough already! Eyes look better than yesterday though, so maybe I'm getting over it. I hope so!

Went to the doctor yesterday and spent the rest of the day with my mom. We shopped for my brother's b-day gift (we got half of it and then I picked up the remainder after dinner last night). We got all the stuff to make S. a Christmas sock (he doesn't have one and stockings are the best part of Christmas!), had lunch at Subway and coffee at S'bucks before I hit the road.

I need to whip up one more batch of cookies for the exchange tomorrow. Then I'll also have enough for L's b-day present, some for S, and maybe a few for me, too!

I'd better run, time's running out!

H =)

Back to work...

My day off flew by yesterday! It could have been because I hardly left the kitchen!

My fridge and freezer are well stocked now, so there is no excuse for not eating well. The vending machine at work will not tempt me as I am not taking money to work.

Went for a run this morning to pick up my rental car--it wasn't nearly long enough, but it felt great! The sun was shining and it was the perfect running temperature. Too bad I was overdressed, yet again.

Work tonight, off tomorrow (driving to doc 1.75 hours north), evenings again on Thursday and Friday. On call on Saturday, Christmas Party on Sunday night!!

Operation Christmas Party Dress continued after my return home with the car. There was the sweeping of the deck, hauling up of the Christmas decorations, and then the weights came out. Curls, shoulder presses & raises, chest flies while v-sitting, pushups, tricep extensions and some abs.

The Spanx also arrived! It is not sexy in any way, shape or form, but holy noodle! It drops me at least one size! And smooths out the lumps and bumpy bits. It's freaking AMAZING and I've been poring over the catalogue they sent with it (Christmas is coming, you know!). It was drilled into me from a very early age (both my mom and aunt are excellent seamstresses) that undergarments make or break an ensemble. They also taught me how clothes are supposed to fit--which makes buying things off the rack incredibly frustrating. But I digress. I've got less than a week before the party and it's GAME ON!

I <3 Yoga Brain!

Even a short, 15 minute practice is enough. *sigh*

Monday’s To-Do’s

1. Complete Yoga Teacher Training Application
2. Submit Yoga Teacher Training Application
3. Banking
4. Groceries
5. Bake 8 dozen Triple-Ginger Gingersnaps
6. Cook remaining meatballs
7. Make big pot of lentil chili for freezer
8. Make big pot of spaghetti sauce for freezer
9. Knit
10. Tidy house (read: find Garmin!)
11. Nap
12. Blog
13. Walk (3.95 km)
14. Pick up fabulous Christmas Party Dresses from drycleaners

The list is getting shorter! Chili & pasta sauce are simmering and I’ve got everything for the cookies (I didn’t have enough molasses so had to make a quick trip to Safeway). I just looked outside and it’s snowing, so I think the rest of the day will be inside!

New downstairs neighbour moved in this morning. First dozen cookies will be delivered there. They are currently parked in my parking spot. Not cool. Cookies will help, I’m sure!

Have a great day!

Oh yeah, between my run yesterday and walk today, I’ve  passed the Wonderland Amusement Park am currently at West boundary Upper Sumas Indian Reserve #6. Still in Abbottsford and oh, so close to the cabin! We’ll see if there’s going to be a detour.

Edit: So there has been no knitting, tidying, or napping. There have been some cookie taste tastes. I am a sucker for a gingersnap. ‘Specially if there’s milk to dunk ‘em in!

But since I can no longer keep my eyes open, I’m going to bed! ‘Night!

Sunday fly-by post

Where did this day go?!

- got up and had pre-run brekkie: Weight Watcher's English muffin with PB and honey, a cup of chai (Tazo concentrate with 1% moo and a sploosh of Noel Nog (my Safeway finally got more!))

- RUN!! First time since Nov. 2 before I was sidelined by H1N1. Had a great, speedy run. My usual 4.4-ish km loop took me just over 31 minutes. It felt Gggggreeaaatt! (Pretend you're Tony the Tiger when you read that). Why so speedy though? Hmmm...could it be: building a slow and steady base OR rage because I can't find my f%$$#(&g Garmin? Not sure, but either way, I'll take it. Now, to just find the Garmin....

- weights and stretching. I even used a tennis ball to roll out those tight places--around the knees, quads, glutes (OUCH does not even come CLOSE to describing the pain)

- quick shower

- lunch at the Taj! Supposed to be with S and his folks to discuss the Christmas plan. I even changed my shifts around to accommodate this discussion. We got stood up. Not even a freaking phone call! Well, to be fair, he was pretty sure his folks weren't coming because of the snowfall on Friday and bad roads (although I'm pretty sure the highways are currently bare and dry, but whatever). His brother was supposed to meet us at 1130h. When we left the restaurant at 1235, we still hadn't heard from him. So what's the Christmas plan, you ask? I still don't know!! It's driving me INSANE not to have a plan. Sheesh.

- S'bucks (Awake tea with peppermint, thanks Angie!) stop, then a walk around the Reservoir to Heritage Park where we poked our heads into a few of the new shops. We also saw the most bizarre skating rink that wasn't ice covered. I still can't really wrap my brain around it.

- Work. I walked into a gong show. AGAIN. One of my colleagues has had a rough year, split with her hubby of many years, big birthday, no trip to Paris with hubby as planned for years...and she's a disaster when it comes to instruments...on a good day, let alone when her personal life is caving in around her. It's been hard to be supportive when she obviously needs some help. I was hoping to talk to her today (perhaps suggesting a doctors note to take some time off) but didn't get the chance as disaster struck again. Let's just say I was lucky to get out of there on time. As a result, I am currently consuming the remainder of the bottle of wine opened last night (Woodbridge 2007 Merlot). It's beyond lovely.

- I am hosting our work Christmas party because our management has not organized/will not organize one. What does that say about how much we're appreciated? So BYOB and an appy and meet at my house for festivities and merriment! If they won't do it, we'll do our own, won't invite them and show them that we're a team with or without their support. I figure I'll make mulled juice (apple/cran) and the baked brie with the last of the cranberry chutney I made for Turkey day.

And with that, I'm going to run a bath, soak for a bit, drinking more wine, and then go to bed. Tomorrow is errands and baking 8 dozen triple ginger gingersnaps for the cookie exchange, L's b-day present and Christmas gifts.

'night!

Did I mention

that there was also wine? In the sauce and a wee bit pour moi.

That is all. Regular scheduled programming will now resume.

H =)

I am a good cooker!

On the menu tonight:

Caesar salad with baby romaine and Epicure Caesar dressing plus 1 TB Miracle whip, 1 TB yogurt, lemon juice, milk, oil, grated parm. Oh yeah, and GAH-LIC. Lots of GAH-lic!

Spaghetti with Epicure Arrababiata seasoning (sauteed onion, garlic, celery, red pepper, orange pepper, sliced 'shrooms, and zuke with diced tomatoes and tomato sauce)

Meatballs with Epicure Polpette spice added to 1/2 lean ground beef, 1/2 lean ground pork, 1 egg, 1/4 cup bread crumbs and then baked in the toaster oven on a rack so all the fat drained out

OH. MY. FREAKING. GOD. IT'S. GOOD!!

And now I'm catching up on two weeks of Corrie, Being Erica and The Border. Then I'm hitting the hay.

Going for a run in the morning, then lunch with S and his fam. Hopefully there will be a Christmas plan when we're done. And then I have to go to work.

Have a great night!

Breaking up is hard to do....

I <3 cheese. In all it's forms. But we must end this relationship, for it has become toxic to me. I've tried moderation. Really, I have. Let's see how strong I can be...


p.s. Me and S. are fine, it's cheese that's the problem.

p.p.s. Epicure mulling spices + 2 cups cranberry juice + 2 cups apple juice = DIVINE

p.p.p.s. Epicure Teriakyi + chicken thighs + broiler + leftover stirfry = YUMMY

FUN-couver!!

Still here, one more sleep then I'm home. I miss Nerm. I miss S. I miss my fireplace! I'm cold and wet and therefore, cranky. Not good. Oh well, I've had the most fabulous weekend!

I spent some quality time with my yoga teacher and also had three amazing classes with her. I miss her already! She's super supportive and excited about my teacher training, just like I knew she would be, but it's always nice to be validated.

Had a quick visit with K & B and their boys and dogs, Max and Lily.

I've walked what feels like a kazillion kilometers but I haven't turned my Garmin (305 for whoever asked) on. I'll figure it out on Map My Run when I get home.

Made my cousin the most delicious (her words, I'm not just saying that) s'ghetti and meatballs last night. Her exact words were more along the lines of "S. has to marry you--does he know what a good cook you are?!" And no, I did not pay her to say anything of the sort.

More later!

H =)

I'm not gonna lie...

I'm having pizza and cider for dinner tonight. And it's not remotely healthy pizza, other than the fact that it's all veggie. But damn it, Eddy's Nest makes freaking AMAZING pizza. (And I'm tired and not making the best choices.)

I'm off to fun-couver tomorrow night for a weekend of R & R: some yoga with my teacher, Kate, visiting with good friends (K & B) and family (cousin Jen, maybe Auntie Jackie and cousin Shannon), running on the beach, knitting and enjoying all the fun that makes Vancouver --> FUN-couver! Oh yeah, there will more than likely be Starbucks.

Who am I kidding?!

There will DEFINITELY be Starbucks!

=)

Really Random Ramblings!

Where to start?

-Garmin says: 38:44, 4.08km, 253 cal. Didn't have the gas in the tank for a run, but a brisk walk felt good. This takes me thiiiiis close to the McCallum Road overpass & Exit 90 in Abbotsford.

-I need new runners. Good thing Christmas is coming!

-I've ordered some Spanx to help ensure Operation Christmas Party Dress is a smashing success. Both dresses now fit (and can be zipped up) so from here on in, it's all about toning.

-BEST. NEWS. EVER!!! My supervisor is willing to schedule me as I requested as long as I can switch the shifts I'm already scheduled for in January. DONE (in less than ten minutes, so why she felt that she couldn't POSSIBLY do it, I have no idea!) I don't have it in writing yet, but I'm thinking positively and working on the application anyway. Whoo hoo! Um, I mean namaste. Ommmmmmmmmmmmm....

-Nerm found a new hiding spot on the weekend: the drawer in my closet. Freaked me out because I thought she had escaped (AGAIN) and when I found her she was like, "What?!" I've yet to capture her absolute adorableness on film (disc?), but it's the cutest thing ever.

-Food choices have been pretty good of late. Well, there seems to be some Halloween candy left at work--seriously? Why haven't those people eaten it all already? Sheesh.

-I think I've decided what to buy S. for Christmas: four day pass for Folk Fest and a bottle of the 8 ticket wine we found at the Food & Wine Festival. If I can find it, that is! Comments? Suggestions? I'm new at this so not really sure what the protocol is!

-I forgot how hard 0600-1400h shift is! I MUST be in bed by 2030h tonight!

-I have yet to discover warm & fuzzy feelings about laundry. I'm hoping my mom comes down next week for a visit! Hey, she just spent three weeks with her other grandkids. Nerm is starting to get a complex.

-I think that's it.

H =)

Back to the grind...

and holy moly batman it was hard to get up at 0430h this morning!

Brekkie (0500h):
1/2 cup bulgur
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 TB maple syrup
1 TB peanut butter
1/2 a smashed 'nanner

chai with a splash of Noel Nog

Lunch (1030h) I didn't get a coffee break, so took it and lunch together!
aloo ghobi
bulgur
Pink Lady apple
mandarin orange

Snack (1430)
herbed gouda

Ran: 32:50, 4.67km This puts me atPeardonville Rd, South Fraser Way overpass, WB onramp, and police U-turn in Abbotsford.
Did some weights: squats, lunges, tricep extentions, bicep curls, shoulders

Made some dinner
channa masala (not nearly as good as the Taj's)
aloo ghobi (lunch was from the last batch)
tandoori shrimp--these weren't as good as I thought they'd be, but I started with precooked shrimps, I think that's why

And now I should go do a load of laundry. At least one before bed!

It's Done!

I emailed my manager and supervisor. And bcc'd my labour relations officer, too. Just to be on the safe side. =P

I've called and talked to the course coordinator. The location they were planning on using is literally just down the road from S.'s house. It's unfortunately, not likely to be completed in time, so they're still looking. There are still about 10 spots left.

So it's out there, Universe. I want it!

H =)

p.s. Oh yeah, the dentist wasn't too bad. No lecture about flossing! In fact, I got, "Your gums are very healthy. Keep doing what you're doing." But I did promise my hygienist, Meredith, that I would bring a tally of how many smiley stickers I got from today till May 31 (next cleaning). AND I got a 1.84km walk in! Noodles tonight which will add another 8.27km (I'll update the ticker when I've actually done those 8K!)

Marathon Post...sorry!

My apologies for the marathon post today! Bear with me!

So on Friday, I encountered this beauty:

This bad boy is a marble cupcake (chocolate and coconut cakes) topped with chocolate icing (not too sweet) and a small dollop of coconut icing. Seriously, I saw heaven!! Bells were ringing, angels singing, the whole bit.

Calgary has some cupcake places but they have NEVER impressed me. Their cakes are dry and flavourless (Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker have nothing to fear from them, that's for sure). Their icings are so sweet that I inevitably scrape all but the tiniest layer off. Some businesses run out before noon. Do they make more cupcakes? Nope. They close their door. BUT, these guys have it ALL figured out!! Two thumbs up for sure!

Friday night was the most amazing concert I've been to in ages! Justin and Melissa were FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC! The venue was a gorgeous church downtown with stadium style pews, padded pews (even better) and amazing acoustics. *sigh* I didn't want it to end! If you get a chance, check out Justin's music here and Melissa's here.

Went to Canmore yesterday and had my toes done in the Manicurist of Seville:



Stopped in at Rocky Mountain Soap Company's open house and picked up some stuff--mostly for other people, although I'm loving the new spicy mandarin lip butter!

Went for a run in gale force chinook winds this morning:
32:25
4.67 km
289 cal

I'm now in Abbotsford!! Whoo hoo!

The rest of the day is going to involve sorting laundry (have I mentioned how much I loathe and despise laundry? I love it when my mom comes to visit, 'cause she loves it and does it for me!) and knitting. Those baby blankies won't knit themselves! This is what the first one looks like:

It's got a seed stitch border with four squares inside. Not a very good description, I know, but it's an easy pattern (Shirls, you could totally do this one!) and lemme tell ya, that's what I need!

OK, off to knit. Happy Sunday! Please read my previous post and let me know what you think!

Need feedback, please!

OK, so I really, really, really want to do my yoga teacher training! There's an AMAZING opportunity to do it part time, starting in January. As you know, my work schedule is erratic and not posted in a very timely manner.

So this is the email I've composed to my manager and supervisor asking for their co-operation. Whaddya think?

I have been offered an amazing opportunity to take my yoga teacher training on a part time basis (typically this training is only offered in month-long training sessions and not often in Calgary). Before making such a large financial and time commitment, I need to ensure that my work schedule can be accommodated. I would require:
-Wednesday evenings off from January 4 - April 21
-January 21-24 off
-March 18-21 off
I am willing to use vacation days if necessary, although my preference would be to use my scheduled days off. Would this be able to be accommodated? If you could let me know prior to December 1, I would appreciate it. Thanks!

Don't drink the water!

Apparently there's a bit of a pregnancy bug going around my group of friends and I don't wanna catch it!

L & G just got their little bundle of joy.
K & S are due in April.
A & P are due in July. (A & K are sisters, so that's 'specially cool)

This means I have THREE baby blankets to knit! I'm half way done one I started for baby J, but then her mom stopped talking to me and moved to Saskatchewan, so I guess baby Isabella can have it! I'm a good knitter, just really slow. And Nerm likes to play with the yarn. I convinced her last night that her mouse was more fun to play with. I don't know how long that'll work.

I'll try and post a pic later, 'cause it is a gorgeous blanket!!

Tonight is the Justin Rutledge and Melissa McClelland concert. Can't wait! I love good Canadian music!

No fancy title here...

Not much going on today. I slept in (it was blissful) and then puttered around the kitchen a bit.

Just got back from a lovely, brisk walk.
5.17 km
51:20
323 calories
I also threw in some weights--shoulder presses, lateral raises, bicep curls and tricep extensions. A few push-ups and abs too, just for good measure. Still in Langley, but slow and steady is gonna win this race!

My cough is considerably better, so I'm hoping to get out for a LSD on Sunday.

S. didn't want me to walk down to the Taj (Macleod Trail isn't exactly pedestrian friendly) so guess where we're going for dinner?! No dessert for me tonight. I think I want tandoori chicken and kabli channa (Chickpeas cooked with ground cumin, onions and tomatoes, and the secret ingredient) or bartha (Smoked eggplant cooked over an open flame, pureed and sautéed with fresh onions, tomatoes and cilantro).

Alas, now I'm going to curl up with my book (Six Months in Sudan) and read in the sunbeam while it lasts!

Arrrrrrgh!

I left my cell in the restaurant last night! Guess my walk today will be a trek down Macleod Trail!

Wednesday of Remembering

I spent this morning at the cenotaph downtown with my cousins Dougie and Robin and baby cousins, S, H, and S. Heard the pipers play (and saw a former co-worker who is a drummer in the pipe band) and stood in silence to remember why I love this country. I didn't fully appreciate it until I was in the Middle East and couldn't go where I wanted, when I wanted and with who I wanted. Don't even get me started on what I could and couldn't say! I came home with a new found appreciation for freedom. And I think Dougie has now, too.

Came home and then S. & I headed south to Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump. Very cool, but again, I was saddened by how the Europeans completely obliterated a way of life. Thank goodness it's now a Unesco World Heritage Site and is preserved to show future generations how life on the plains used to be.

Stopped in at our favourite Indian place, Taj Mahal. We were going to go see "The Men Who Stare at Goats" but it didn't start for over an hour. So we wandered around the mall for awhile (S. was amazed that I knew what each and every kitchen gadget he held up was!) and then headed home.

And bed is beckoning....

African Stew

In honour of my cousin Dougie, who's currently stuck in the airport in Minneapolis on his way home from Sudan, dinner tonight is African stew. Yummy!


From the cookbook, Cooking Vegetarian by Vesanto Melina & Joseph Forest.

4 c vegetable stock (or chicken if you're not veggie)
1 chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 c peeled, diced yams
1 c cooked chickpeas
1/2 c brown rice (I've substituted bulgar, too)
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 c peanut butter (I like crunchy)
2 c chopped kale
2 TB lemon juice
tamari or soy sauce (optional)
hot sauce

In large pot over medium heat, saute onion and garlic in 2TB stock until soft. Add remaining stock, yams, chickpeas, rice and salt; simmer covered for 45 minutes.

In small bowl, blend peanut butter and 1/2 c of liquid from stew to make smooth paste. Stir into stew along with kale and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in tamari if using.

Serve with lemon wedge and hot sauce (these are essential--don't leave them out!)




Bad news--I've gotta give the car back. =(

Good news--He's going back on Saturday! =)

Take it easy Tuesday

I stayed up way too late last night: eating yummy Epicure goodies and trying on gorgeous Silpada jewelery. I got my order today that I bought a few weeks ago and I love everything but the ring. It just doesn't look right. *le sigh* So I guess it'll go back and I'll just have to pick one of the many other sparkly things I circled in the catalogue!

I thought I'd answer some questions and comment on some comments:

1. The birth mother has 10 days to change her mind about the adoption. Total roller coaster for adoptive parents and reason why L & G kept baby under wraps till they knew she was staying with them forever.

2. Roasted chick peas are semi-crunchy. I think I could've baked them longer but I was afraid they would burn. Next time I'll leave them in a little longer.

3. Prince of Whales hotel in Waterton is NOT creepy! It's gorgeous and that is where I want to get married. I figure it's the closest thing to Scotland I can get in Alberta and every time I think about it, I can actually hear the piper piping.

4. Boys should not be allowed to plan kitchens or bathrooms! In my opinion they do not spend enough time in either room to make changes that will affect (a) my morning ritual and (b) storage capabilities in my kitchen. Although I love soaking in my tub, it really does suck as a shower. Apparently you can't have your cake and eat it too.

OK, I think that's it. For now anyways. Didn't go for a run, but I did walk downtown for lunch and then home again. Dinner tonight is African Stew. Mmmmm....

300 & Pumpkin Pie Chick Peas

Wowsers! 300 Posts!! To celebrate, some chickpeas, festive style:

Kath made these a week ago and I was intrigued. They live up to their hype!

Pumpkin Pie Chickpeas
1 19 oz can chickpeas, rinsed, drained and patted dry
1 tsp oil
2 TB maple syrup
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1/8 tsp salt
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp ginger
3/4 tsp cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350F.
Combine all ingredients until evenly coated.
Spread on a cookie sheet (I used a parchment lined one instead of greased).
Bake 25 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.


Yum!

Garmin says...

37:19
3.42 km
217 cal
65% max hr

Only one big coughing fit, otherwise a lovely stroll through the neighbourhood, along the trails and back down Mission Hill.

Along the Trans Canada, I'm still in Langley, BC almost to the 208 St. Overpass.

Manic Monday

Well, not really, but I needed some alliteration for the title and I do have a lengthy to-do list.

So tonight I am hosting an Epicure and Silpada party. Both are home based businesses. Epicure is food and cookware and Silpada has gorgeous silver jewelery. Thank goodness I tidied before I left, so today there's not THAT much to do.

-groceries (veggies, fruit and crackers for dipping in Epicure goodness!)
-vacuum (Nerm is adorable, but hairy)
-shower (no explanation should be necessary here)
-manicure (OPI Nail Envy is AMAZING)
-walk/run (I need some endorphins!)

Considering I did nothing in Banff but sleep and eat, the scale was showing me the same number it did on Thursday! Whoo hoo! Another reason to get off my ass and go for at least a walk. I'm feeling 100% better than I did even yesterday, and the sun is shining out there.

Hmmmm...I think that's it. Oh, I'm going to try a new recipe for lunch: Pumpkin Spiced Chickpeas. I'll keep you posted!

Happy Monday =)

Love my tub!

I may have mentioned it here before, but I LOVE my tub! It's an old school, claw foot tub that is heavenly to soak in.


Add some of this:



And H-woman is a happy, relaxed, healthy camper! Rocky Mountain Soap Company is based in Canmore and makes the most amazing products. And they have an online store--check it out!

I've gotta kick this cough so I can get running--I've got itchy feet and watching all those people run in Winterstart last night without me was painful! Next year for sure, S & I will be there, running with glo-sticks and 998 of our closest friends!

Fabulous News!

My dear friends have a new baby!! Baby Isabella was born on Oct. 24, but they've wanted to keep her under wraps until the 10 day birth-mom-can-still-change-her-mind-period was up.

Last night at midnight, it became official. This baby girl couldn't ask for cooler parents. And I hope she'll always know that she was wanted more than she could ever imagine.

Banff Re-cap

Not much to report. Both me and my boy were sick all weekend. No running. Much coughing.

Good thing we had a super comfy king sized bed!

And there's always next year...
H =)

As promised...

Mac 'n Cheese!

Cookies are made.
Last load of laundry is drying.
Kitchen is tidied.
My nails are done.

Just a shower and a quick walk down the block and everything else will be done. Well, except the packing. But that won't take long.

And then a NAP. Fridays are good. =)

OK--When did the rules of the road change? Seriously?! I was pretty sure that as a pedestrian, if the little man said walk and I was in a marked cross walk, the cars had to wait for me. Obviously I was wrong.

We now return to regularly scheduled ranting.

Happy Friday!

Goooooooooooood morning, Calgary (and others)!!

The sun has finally peeked around the big high rise to the south of me and is drenching me in a lovely sunbeam. Nerm is sound asleep (as only cats can be) in front of the fire and doesn't realize she's missing out on a great sunbeam.

You'll never guess how excited I was last night when I found some of this:


in Safeway. It's an old photo, sorry, it now comes in a plastic jug. But guess who had an egg-noggy chai this morning?! Yep, I've been soooooo envious of Jaime's noggy lattes (except that whole coffee thing) but I wanted to wait for my tried and true Noel Nog. Waaaaaay healthier than the eggy stuff.

Other than that, I don't have much to report today. I seem to be on the mend, although the coughing, wheezing and hacking remain. I'm still not sure if I'll be able to run tomorrow night, but I think S. will kill me if I don't. Especially since I basically told him he had to run this with me! =P

I did make a fan-freaking-tastic mac and cheese last night. Sorry, I was too hungry to take a photo. Maybe at lunch time. Basically:
- 1 box of Eating Right whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 1 cup 1% cottage cheese
- 1 container Imperial cheese
- onion
- dijon mustard
- 1% moo (not much)
- broccoli
- 1 x 28 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
- S & P
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 TB canola oil
- parmesan cheese

1. Cook macaroni. Drain. Set aside. Preheat oven to 350 or 400F
2. Steam broc. Drain. Add to noodles.
3. Drain tomatoes. Add to noodles and broc.
4. Saute onion in a bit of butter or oil until tender. Remove from heat.
5. Add cottage cheese, Imperial, and a bit of moo and return to low heat.
6. Melt over low till saucy and cheesy.
7. Stir in some mustard and S & P.
8. Pour over noodles and mix.
9. Transfer to baking dish (I used my Pampered Chef 8x8 casserole but probably should have used a 9x13).
10. In a small dish, combine breadcrumbs, parm and oil till crumbly. Top casserole.
11. Bake until golden, bubbly, and cheesy (about 20-30 minutes).
12. Bask in the glory that is yours for being so amazing!

OK, I'd better get my butt in gear. Before we leave this afternoon, I still need to:
1. make cookies for the neighbours (oatmeal cherry chocolate chip)
2. pack
3. laundry
4. tidy house
5. pick up race packs
6. go to bank
7. get gas
8. nap

Happy Friday!

Early WI

Since I’m going to be in Banff on Saturday, my usual WI day had to be bumped up a day or two! I had planned on going to the meeting downtown this morning, but when I got up at 6, fever and chills set in, along with aches and pains. Sheesh! The flu sucks, people.  So, heavily medicated, I went back to bed for a few hours.

 

Got up and stood on the scale and WHOO HOO!! I have re-entered the 170’s! Happy dancing all around chez moi aujourd’hui!

Return of the Appetite

That’s a good sign, right? Good. That’s what I thought, too.

Tonight’s dinner had to:

(a) be yummy

(b) require very little effort on my part (my appetite may have returned, but energy hasn’t!)

(c) be quick

Check. Check. And check!



I made a veggie orzo dish awhile ago and put the leftovers in the freezer. While it was thawing in the microwave, I ran some cooked, frozen shrimp under some water and then got rid of their tails. I had the kettle hot, so I also soaked some sundried tomatoes. Chopped up some olives, mixed it all up and topped it with some feta. P opped it into the preheated toaster oven for 25 minutes and WOWSERS! I also had a slice of toasted Como bread on the side (note that it didn’t survive long enough to make it to the photo op). Oh, and a cuppa hot water with lemon to soothe the sore throat, too.


Christie’s coming to pick up the keys so she can feed Nerm while we’re in Banff this weekend for Winterstart. I sure hope the sneezing, coughing and phlegm are done by then!! Just found out S. spent the day on his couch, too. Uh oh! Please send healthy vibes our way...

A nice warm bath after that and Nerm and I are calling it a day. We’re going to WI bright and early tomorrow morning.

And seriously, what is up with not being able to post photos from Windows Live Messenger?! Jaime suggested 'dragging and dropping' but it won't let me do that. In all other ways I love the Live Writer! Help a girl out!!

And now it's light's out time in Cowtown. 'Night!!

Could I have some cheese

to go with my wine whine?

Oh wait, I’m trying to break up with cheese, aren’t I? <sigh>

Oh all right then, just pour me another glass!

 

This post has been brought to you by Wolf Blass Shiraz. =)

When will the coughing end?

I just need a heads up. I've hacked up a lung or two already and need time to grow another two (one for breathing, one to hack up).

Schedule woes resolved

Well, I had to email my supervisor to see if the schedule had been posted yet. Umm, apparently she posted it yesterday and forgot to email me. Good thing I emailed you at 1 this afternoon, or I'd still be waiting! So in typical fashion, I'm not scheduled for New year's eve, but she DID schedule me for evenings! Seriously?! I have a six hour drive ahead of me and I'm scheduled to work till 10 pm. Grrrr...

Here's the best part, though. I work with the most fabulous people!! And they are why I love my job. One quick email to SC and RJ and just like that, I've got the 30th OFF. I picked up an extra shift from SC the week before Christmas and her and RJ switch benches and all is good in the world. Now how hard was that? Hmmm? Not very. Not sure what I ever did to piss my supervisor off so much that she gives me the shittiest schedule, but thank goodness for great co-workers. They make going to work worthwhile!

Still coughing, but I did get my list done! C. and I are going for noodles for dinner. Nothing like a little beef sate pho with veggies to clear the sinuses.

Also got some great news from some friends this morning, but can't share till Sunday. Let's just say that there's been some serious happy dancing going on in my kitchen for them. =)

And now the couch is calling my name...

I think I'm gonna make it!

It was touch and go there for awhile yesterday, but I'm pretty sure I'm on the road to recovery today. I haven't had pain like that since I was diagnosed with SLE when I was 18. And really, who puts child proof lids on cough syrup for adults with arthritis? I almost cried yesterday trying to get it open! Note to self: next time you're at Shopper's have them put a note on your file: NO CHILDPROOF CAPS.

Nerm's lack of opposable thumbs means she's not likely to get into the cough syrup anytime soon. =)

Yesterday's food was pretty erratic:
0830h: OJ
1400h: Italian wedding soup, OJ
1800h: OJ, super cherry nibs
0330h: slice of bread, H20

Add some good OTC cold/flu meds, Extra strength Motrin, prescription cough syrup with codeine and H-woman slept most of the day! I think the fever broke sometime between 0330h and 0830h this morning. I woke up feeling 250% better than yesterday. My hair doesn't hurt, nor does most of the rest of my body.

My goals for the day are few and simple:
1. Have a shower.
2. Wash the sheets. I <3 clean sheet day!
3. Empty the dishwasher.
4. Fill said dishwasher with dishes littering the sink and counter.

That is all. This post has been brought to you by the letters "O" and "J."

Flattened by the Flu

I feel like I've been run over by a truck! Everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) hurts.

Thank goodness for Nyquil, OJ and super prescription cough syrup.

And S. He brought me more OJ and a hug. =)

I've slept all day and still feel awful. In a half hour I can take more drugs and then it's back to bed for me and Nerm.

Awesome Sunday run!

I had a brilliant LSD this morning! The sun is shining and it’s a crisp, fall morning in Cowtown. What better way to spend a Sunday morning than an hour long run?

Garmin says:

1:00:00

6.98 km

519 cal

I was thinking I’d get in 8K, but I guess I really was going slow! That’s OK—I did a combination of trails and pathway running, but I tried to stick to trail as much as possible. It makes me happier and my body too!

Today’s almost 7K has me smack dab in the middle of Langley. I’m at the 192 Street Overpass! By the end of next week, I’ll be in Abottsford and oh, so close to the cabin at Mt. Baker!



Hmmm….perhaps a side trip is in order! We’ll see.

I finished up my run with half an hour of yoga. Lots of hip openers and twists. A foot and a turtle sticker made it to the calendar today! Post run recovery drink:
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1/2 TBSP Nestle Nesquik chocolate syrup
1% moo (1 cup).

And water, lots of water!

So I kind of bailed on the last few weeks of Boot Camp. After being sick at Turkey day, I just couldn’t find the motivation to get back there. But, I did my measurements for this session and am pleased to report a loss of 1 5/8 inches and 3 pounds in the last six weeks. Since mid-May, I’ve lost a total of 7 3/8 inches.

Not too shabby, if I do say so myself! Like I said the other day, I feel skinnier and I’ve noticed my clothes are fitting differently. In fact, I can still wear clothes that I wore when I was at my goal weight, they just looked a lot better then!

If nothing else, Boot camp has shown me how important strength training is (and really, it doesn’t take that long to throw in a few push ups, squats, lunges and crunches at the end of a run) and given me some new moves. I also realized that I’m more of a solo exerciser. Aquasize is the only exception (maybe because I’m afraid of water, I like the safety of a group?!) My favourite activities have always been things that I do alone—running, boxing, walking, yoga (I haven’t been to a class in a studio since April). Anyway, enough armchair psychology.

Rest of the day looks like this:

-shower (run = good but sweaty and smelly!)
-lunch at Taj with S. & his family
-TBA (I left this up to S. to plan)
-make cookies for fabulous new neighbours who brought me wine (oatmeal cherry chocolate, I think!)
-nap?

Have a fabulous Sunday!

I <3 my new neighbours!

Guess who just knocked at the door? The new neighbours across the hall! And they brought red wine. I like ‘em already!

Had coffee with the girls, lunch with my yogini friend, C., and came home. It’s been a quiet afternoon and I’m pretty good with that. I was going to nap, but once 5 o’clock hit, I knew that I shouldn’t. So I think it’ll be an early night so I can get up and go for a run in the morning,  go to the market (see groceries on the list below),  meet S. & his parents for lunch and then who knows what….I left the après lunch up to S. so we’ll see what he comes up with!

My list is shrinking….

To Do:

-bank
-garden (rip it out and work it up)
-RUN!!

Garmin says:  6 x 3:2 (30 min), 270 cal,  3.59km

This puts me in Surrey, BC at the 160 Street Overpass! After tomorrow’s run, I’ll be most of the way through Langley!

-laundry

-vacuum
-change my dentist appointment

-groceries
-make doctor appointment

Three (point five) down, time to nap!

Yep, I think I’m entitled since I’ve been up since 4! Of course, Nerm’s been napping hard since 4, but I’m pretty sure she’ll be up for a cuddle.

To Do:

-bank
-garden (rip it out and work it up)
-RUN!!
-laundry (only partially, it’s sorted and the first two loads are in)
-vacuum
-change my dentist appointment

-groceries
-make doctor appointment

 

I had a great run on the trails. Not super speedy and I’ve yet to update the TransCanada trip, but I will post-nap. I stepped on the scale this morning and was surprised by the number—it was bigger than I expected as I was (am) having a super skinny day (you know, you just feel skinny)! Add to that, I need to adjust my heart rate monitor ‘cause it kept slipping during my run! (I did my bootcamp measurements, too. Again, post nap)

So scale, you can say whatever you want. How I feel is just as, if not more, important!

Jaime Rocks!

I am now a proud user of Windows Live Writer thanks to Jaime! Apparently this will allow me to do all kinds of cool things, like:

• change the colour of the font! Or the font!
• add bullets (maybe I could do that in Blogger, I don’t know
• cross things off my to-do list! (which is what I really, really wanted to know how to do!)
• I’m hoping that dealing with photos will be easier (I’ll experiment and let you know)
• See what my post is actually going to look like in my blog template

And that is what I know for sure.

On a side note, I’ve decided to NOT email my supervisor just yet. Perhaps some of the beloved full timers stepped up to the plate and volunteered. I’m still seething mad (and in need of a good run, which will happen very, very soon!) and I’d rather not burn any bridges. I shall wait and see.

For a very non-patient person, this is INCREDIBLY difficult, yet I can do this. <breathe in, breathe out> <sigh>

Friday Five

Totally stealing the idea from Amber!!

1. Still beyond annoyed about the New Year's Eve scheduling thing. See yesterday's post for the deets. Please comment as I'm struggling to find a way to communicate with this person!

2. I've been up since 4 a.m. I don't sleep at the best of times and especially when stressed. Hello, I'm on VACATION, remember?! However, I've made my to-do list:
-bank
-garden (rip it out and work it up)
-RUN!! Nothing better for stress release than exercise (although I'd really like a punching bag right now!)
-laundry
-vacuum
-change my dentist appointment DONE
-groceries
-make doctor appointment DONE

3. I went to aquasize last night. My cousin and I have gone on and off for years and love it. She's sick (and getting ready for a big trip abroad, so needs to get better) so didn't come with me. We usually go to Killarney on Mondays and Wednesdays, but now she's started swimming lengths on those days. Turns out it's not a big deal, as Renfrew offers a class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:45.
Good: early exercise means early bedtime; Tuesdays and Thursdays are my cross training days in my marathon training

Bad: bad access via transit; it's early so cousin more likely to bail due to work issues; instructor not fabulous

Verdict: we shall see. There is a MUCH later class at Thornhill that has better transit access so that's also an option.

4. I'm getting new neighbours! Both suites (across the hall and below me) are now rented. This means I REALLY need to get a better rug under my bed to help muffle noise. I went to a few carpet places yesterday. Had crappy service at one, but fabulous at the second. I've got four different samples to test drive. Call is in to the interior decorator for professional opinion (I want something both functional and pretty, yet gives me options to change colour schemes in my room, too). Oh yeah, best part is that the one I really, really liked was only going to cost $8000. WTF?! Even the sales person was surprised!! I would've been gorgeous though...C'mon lottery gods!

Anyway, must make cookies to welcome new downstairs neighbour. "Welcome to the building. (hands over cookies) Noise travels up and down in this building. Our bedrooms are right above one another. I have to be up quite early in the mornings for work, so please let me know if I disturb you and I'll be sure to do the same for you." (smiles sweetly)

and finally....

5. It's Fall back weekend! Although really, I don't know what the point of this is because they have NEVER EVER shown any energy savings by f-ing with the clock. All it does is give people a false sense of "extra" sleep, when in fact, they've been sleep deprived since spring. And there are more accidents and heart attacks associated with time change. But whatever. I am not (yet) in charge of these things. Just wait though, my time is coming....

Cranky, cranky, cranky!

I love my job. I hate my schedule.

Our December schedule was supposed to be posted on Tuesday. It was not. On Wednesday, my supervisor emailed me at home (I'm on holidays, remember) along with 4 full time people and another part timer looking for 3 volunteers for New Year's Eve.

I emailed her back with: I’m not available on the 31st. I volunteered to work over Christmas with the understanding that I wouldn’t have to work New Year’s. I also worked New Year’s last year.

To which she replied: Thank you for your email. Due to the number of shifts that need to be covered on Dec 24 & Dec 31, there will be some staff who need to work both days. I never indicated to staff that if you worked one of these days that you would be guaranteed to have the other off. Dec 31 is not a stat - it is a regular working day.

Bull shit!

I'm PART time. Ask those full time people you love so much ('cause us part timer's are the "bane of their existence" direct quote from manager) to do it. I also worked it last year. The holidays are supposed to be distributed equitably.

She only gave us the holidays to self schedule, not the whole pay period, so now she's in a pickle. NOT MY PROBLEM. The schedule wasn't posted when it was supposed to be, so I've made plans to go away with my family. Deal with it.

GRRRRRR.

Rant over and normally scheduled programming will now resume.


EDIT: OK, how sad is it that I've been online searching for computer programs that can schedule employees? And even worse, that I'm contemplating buying it myself and presenting it to my supervisor and saying, "Well, you seem to be struggling with it" and then I (of course) look like a genius (which I am, because they obviously have not sought out these options)! I've also been formulating a response. This is what I have so far:

I realize that there are shifts to cover, however, the shifts over the holidays are to be distributed evenly. When you posted the shifts for us to self schedule, you only gave us the holidays. You gave us no indication as to how many shifts full and part time staff were to sign up for. A better solution would have been to have us self schedule the entire pay period. Since that is no longer an option AND I volunteered for all of Christmas AND I am part time AND I worked last New Year's Eve AND the schedule was not posted when it was supposed to be, I have made plans out of town to celebrate the holidays with my family, I am unavailable to work on Dec. 31-Jan 2. I AM willing to be short shifted if necessary and I am available on Jan. 3 if that helps.

Does that sound OK? Comments please!

Wonderful Wednesday

Mostly 'cause I slept in, again! I think it just shows what a sleep deficit I have. I'm going to bed at a half decent time tonight and want to get up between 7 and 8 tomorrow, hopefully without an alarm clock!

Had a lovely lunch with Cowgirl Warrior at the Sunterra Market downtown. I had a very yummy turkey sammie with mango chutney and a cup of strawberries. Mmmmm....

Came home and headed out for a run while the sun was shining (the forecast isn't good). I hit the trails (thank you, Lisa Q., for showing them all to me last year!) doing 3:2's x 7 and Garmin says:
00:35:04
319 cal
4.23 km
88% max hr

Then I reset him and started to walk for home and cool down. I clocked another 15:25, 1.5 km and 72 cal.

This means that I've just crossed the Port Mann Bridge over the Fraser river!

That's about all I've got. Had the last of my Thai One On soup for dinner tonight. Tomorrow I'm making a potato, kale and bison sausage stew in the crock pot.