As we wrapped up our cruise near Portland it was time to set out to Ogunquit. Take 95 south to Highway 1 south and you will eventually find Ogunquit. Ogunquit meant "beautiful place by the sea" in the native language. One of Maine's slogans is "Life the way it should be". Both phrases catch the spirit of the place. One needs to take Ogunquit at its pace. If you were to try to be really active you would exhaust your options quickly and become restless. If you did almost nothing it wouldn't justify the costs of staying there. The best approach is to be laid back and take it as it comes.
We arrived at our B and B in the late afternoon and then went to the beach and the Marginal Way. Between that evening and the next morning I saw the major difference between high and low tide. Someday I'd like to learn more about this type of thing. We had some issues finding the Marginal Way from Shore Dr. but eventually a nice hotel employee let us go through their private property and onto the trail. It's a curby path with the jagged cliffs, small beaches, and ocean views to one side and hotels and oceanfront property to the other side.
By the time we arrived to Perkins Cove it was dark. We dined at Barnacle Billy's, a mainstay there with two different sets of atmosphere. Another delicous lobster dinner and we were back on our way for a night of rest. I was now in vacation mode. Life the way it should be.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Maine vacation, day two, part 3
I have been putting off this post and the rest of the Maine trip essays because of the lack of details I have about the harbor cruise we took that afternoon. No more. You can miss all the details and always go there for yourself.
It was a sunny day, slightly breezy day and optimal for a Lighthouse Lovers Cruise. We chose Portland Discovery out of a few different options. We went out, passed some lighthouses, Cape Elizabeth, other islands that form part of Portland, saw lobster traps and civil war forts, and then eventually went through Casco Bay and around Portland back to the harbor.
Our guide had a nice thick mustache and took his duties seriously. He needed to communicate with the captain, give his talking points, and take questions from the crowd. There was so much to see and learn about that at some point it became overkill. He didn't speak incessantly or any more than he needed to, yet I think cruises like this should have some quiet time to hear the natural sounds of the boat cutting waves, the birds, and any other such sounds. I suppose passengers can choose to tune out the guide, which many people did.
By this time, our full first afternoon on the land or water of Maine, my wife and I were slowly but surely falling in love with Portland. Perhaps it was just the idyllic August weather, the lobster rolls, or the laid back, not-so-big city feel. As the cruise wound down we realized that the time to leave Portland for Ogunquit was near. Fortunately we knew we'd return in just a few days, and it felt like we'd be going to visit an old friend.
It was a sunny day, slightly breezy day and optimal for a Lighthouse Lovers Cruise. We chose Portland Discovery out of a few different options. We went out, passed some lighthouses, Cape Elizabeth, other islands that form part of Portland, saw lobster traps and civil war forts, and then eventually went through Casco Bay and around Portland back to the harbor.
Our guide had a nice thick mustache and took his duties seriously. He needed to communicate with the captain, give his talking points, and take questions from the crowd. There was so much to see and learn about that at some point it became overkill. He didn't speak incessantly or any more than he needed to, yet I think cruises like this should have some quiet time to hear the natural sounds of the boat cutting waves, the birds, and any other such sounds. I suppose passengers can choose to tune out the guide, which many people did.
By this time, our full first afternoon on the land or water of Maine, my wife and I were slowly but surely falling in love with Portland. Perhaps it was just the idyllic August weather, the lobster rolls, or the laid back, not-so-big city feel. As the cruise wound down we realized that the time to leave Portland for Ogunquit was near. Fortunately we knew we'd return in just a few days, and it felt like we'd be going to visit an old friend.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
South Carolina 33, Michigan 28 - perspective
Near the end and after today's Outback Bowl between South Carolina and Michigan I went through four of the five stages of grieving. "No that did not just happen" I muttered when South Carolina connected on an improbable but not entirely surprising TD pass will 11 seconds left in the game. Anger set in quickly and different people were blamed. The defensive backs that were not in the right position to stop the play. Or all the DL and LBs that missed sure sacks on previous plays that made this pass possible? Or was it Greg Mattison's fault? No way. Mattison is a great DC and had them where they were supposed to be most of the year. I decided it was the entire defense's fault. I skipped the Bargaining step since I knew that I was powerless to change the outcome. Depression arrived next. I tried finding somthing else to do around the house, but was numb for a couple of hours. I went grocery shopping and found Acceptance. It was quite simple.
I realized that over 32 years of being a Michigan fan that my perspective had changed as little as the ages of the Wolverines. When I was 8 to about 18 my favorite players like Anthony Carter, Jim Harbaugh, Jamie Morris, and Desmond Howard were grown men, and would have been 10 feet tall if I ever met them. While at UM my opinion changed briefly, having seen the players attend the first week or so of classes in the fall or winter semester and then disappear. This jaded me and I did not actively support the team during the Moellar years while at the school. That changed in the glorious 1997 campaign, and from then on I've been back to cheering for these "men", these Wolverines.
Well I'm now about 20 years older than the average player, and they're really not men to me anymore. They're college kids, just out of high school really. My kids will be as old as them in about five years. And they got beat at the end of a close, hard-fought game by the Ol' Ball Coach. They're this years version of the kids that put on the uniforms and helmets I love, and play in the stadium I love to the sounds of the fight song I love. They're probably playing video games now or on their phones. Or listening to some rap or metal music that I can't relate to. It doesn't make it hurt any less that I found acceptance, but it helped me rid of some of that numbness.
I have high hopes for 2013 as it's a season when ND and OSU visit Ann Arbor. I expect there will be more to cheer for, and that today's darkness will become a distant memory. My love will go on.
I realized that over 32 years of being a Michigan fan that my perspective had changed as little as the ages of the Wolverines. When I was 8 to about 18 my favorite players like Anthony Carter, Jim Harbaugh, Jamie Morris, and Desmond Howard were grown men, and would have been 10 feet tall if I ever met them. While at UM my opinion changed briefly, having seen the players attend the first week or so of classes in the fall or winter semester and then disappear. This jaded me and I did not actively support the team during the Moellar years while at the school. That changed in the glorious 1997 campaign, and from then on I've been back to cheering for these "men", these Wolverines.
I have high hopes for 2013 as it's a season when ND and OSU visit Ann Arbor. I expect there will be more to cheer for, and that today's darkness will become a distant memory. My love will go on.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Customer protocol at Subway
An open letter to fellow Subway customers.
I detest waiting in line behind you. Here's are some rules you need to know to please me, so that I will tolerate waiting behind you. You in turn will appreciate this from others.
1) Know what you want to order. Bread, type of sandwich, cheese, "warmed up", fixings. Don't wait for the sandwich artist to ask you these five questions. Just tell them. If it's your first time or you're not a regular, step off to the side until you make a decision.
2) Be present. Don't talk on the phone or to your friend while the sandwich artist waits for you, which means I'm waiting for you.
3) By all means do not order subs for multiple people. This slows everything down to a halt because you don't really know what they want, and it becomes labor intensive. Subway is not adept at handling this. Bring those people and everyone can order for themselves. Then eat together. That's more social than everyone eating at their cube.
4) Know if you want the chips and drink before the cashier asks you. Don't count out pennies, nickels, and dimes to make exact change. Carrying change to avoid getting change is really a waste of your time and mine. Put your change in a jar and save it.
I detest waiting in line behind you. Here's are some rules you need to know to please me, so that I will tolerate waiting behind you. You in turn will appreciate this from others.
1) Know what you want to order. Bread, type of sandwich, cheese, "warmed up", fixings. Don't wait for the sandwich artist to ask you these five questions. Just tell them. If it's your first time or you're not a regular, step off to the side until you make a decision.
2) Be present. Don't talk on the phone or to your friend while the sandwich artist waits for you, which means I'm waiting for you.
3) By all means do not order subs for multiple people. This slows everything down to a halt because you don't really know what they want, and it becomes labor intensive. Subway is not adept at handling this. Bring those people and everyone can order for themselves. Then eat together. That's more social than everyone eating at their cube.
4) Know if you want the chips and drink before the cashier asks you. Don't count out pennies, nickels, and dimes to make exact change. Carrying change to avoid getting change is really a waste of your time and mine. Put your change in a jar and save it.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Going to the message boards
The reason the posts on this blog have slowed down of late is because I started a second blog in early September called Chiefs Outsider (chiefsoutsider.blogspot.com).
When I started chancesareexcellent I hoped to get people to respond to what I write. I have nearly a 1000 pageviews now and have received one comment. A friend suggested to me that I'm not controversial enough. I could write half-cocked posts about politics or the Kardashians but then I'd be joining the web culture that I dislike. I do appreciate that real people are reading this or that some search engine algorithm is finding me. I try to be civil and at least mildly interesting while I work on my writing skills.
You'll have to visit the Chiefs Outsider to get a feel for what it's about. My indirect goal for that blog is to find something people are passionate about and show an outsider's perpective on that passion. I couldn't think of a better place to do it than football in America. Diehard football fans are an interesting group of people. They call radio shows, wear jerseys, speak in the 1st person plural ("we") when referring to their team, and their mood is sometimes determined by the fates of the team. I'm a diehard University of Michigan football fan but 12 years ago I realized it's as much of an affliction as anything else. Michigan lost a game to Purdue and I nearly slipped into a depression when they inevitably lost the game due to Lloyd Carr "play not to lose" tactics. I was really down about it but it later became an epiphany. I still get crazy sometimes when they win or lose a close game, but now I'm aware of what I'm doing and temper the highs and lows.
I've watched all five Chiefs games this year and feel I'm knowledgeable enough to go to the message boards. I know more about the Chiefs than most people outside KC. I know it's rough out on the boards because I used to post on them occasionally when I was a mediocre stockpicker.
I'll keep posting on this subject as long as it's something I think is interesting to you the reader. Maybe it will even stir up a comment.
When I started chancesareexcellent I hoped to get people to respond to what I write. I have nearly a 1000 pageviews now and have received one comment. A friend suggested to me that I'm not controversial enough. I could write half-cocked posts about politics or the Kardashians but then I'd be joining the web culture that I dislike. I do appreciate that real people are reading this or that some search engine algorithm is finding me. I try to be civil and at least mildly interesting while I work on my writing skills.
You'll have to visit the Chiefs Outsider to get a feel for what it's about. My indirect goal for that blog is to find something people are passionate about and show an outsider's perpective on that passion. I couldn't think of a better place to do it than football in America. Diehard football fans are an interesting group of people. They call radio shows, wear jerseys, speak in the 1st person plural ("we") when referring to their team, and their mood is sometimes determined by the fates of the team. I'm a diehard University of Michigan football fan but 12 years ago I realized it's as much of an affliction as anything else. Michigan lost a game to Purdue and I nearly slipped into a depression when they inevitably lost the game due to Lloyd Carr "play not to lose" tactics. I was really down about it but it later became an epiphany. I still get crazy sometimes when they win or lose a close game, but now I'm aware of what I'm doing and temper the highs and lows.
I've watched all five Chiefs games this year and feel I'm knowledgeable enough to go to the message boards. I know more about the Chiefs than most people outside KC. I know it's rough out on the boards because I used to post on them occasionally when I was a mediocre stockpicker.
I'll keep posting on this subject as long as it's something I think is interesting to you the reader. Maybe it will even stir up a comment.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Maine vacation, day two, part two - Portland Lobster Company
Commercial Street is where I'd recommend a first-time visitor to start in Portland. Here you will find most of what you'll want to do. We started by securing our tickets for a cruise of the harbor, and then made our way to lunch at the Portland Lobster Company. A few locals told us to visit, and we were glad they did. This is sort of the standard lobster place: near the water, overpriced, but leaving you wanting more. We ordered a lobster roll, clam chowder, and clam strips. The lobster roll was nearly $16, but I could easily justify it because if you go to Maine you must eat lobster. It may sound trite to those that have never been to Maine, but once there you will accept it. This was the first of many lobster meals for us.
The Portland Lobster Company extends out into the harbor and is adjacent to where the tour boats dock.
Some of it is covered by umbrellas and the rest is a large eating area. The next Maine post will be about the cruise, which was more enjoyable from eating such a satisfying meal.
The Portland Lobster Company extends out into the harbor and is adjacent to where the tour boats dock.
Some of it is covered by umbrellas and the rest is a large eating area. The next Maine post will be about the cruise, which was more enjoyable from eating such a satisfying meal.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Maine vacation, day two, part one - Portland Observatory
When I saw the Portland Observatory for the first time I assumed it was a lighthouse. It looks like a lighthouse, and I didn't see any space for a telescope. It's not a lighthouse, and it's not an observatory in the sense that it observes the skies above. Sitting on the top of Munjoy Hill in downtown Portland, it is the last surviving maritime signal tower in the US. I'll explain what that means in a minute.
We came upon the Observatory by fate, and I'm glad we did. Our original plan was to be downtown to ride on a lobster boat but since we had an hour to kill we thought we'd first see the Observatory, then drive downtown, park, and buy the tickets for the tour with time to spare. Of course this was totally unrealistic, but it made sense at the time. We bought our tickets for the Observatory tour, then waited, and waited some more. They only take smaller groups as space is limited, and try to space them out to avoid congestion.
We arrived at midpoint of one of these groups that form, and then had to wait for the preceding group to move up further and a couple of more tourists to take the tour with us. Then the cashier went to grab lunch so the volunteer guide was stuck watching the till. As the minutes passed I realized our plans to go on the lobster boat were slipping away. I really struggle with moments like this due to my chronic, monumental impatience. I tried to tell myself that it was a beautiful day and that there would more tours to catch, and to just enjoy the one I was about to take.
Finally our group embarked and winded our way up the four or five flights of stairs, with a short break on each floor for some information about how and why it was built along with all the history. It was built in 1807 as a way to communicate between the incoming ship on the Atlantic Ocean and the boat owners on the harbor. When the watchman could see the incoming flags we would hoist the same flag so the down on the harbor they knew their ship was coming and make preparations.
The highlight was reaching the top floor, feeling the cool breeze, and seeing Portland and the surrounding waters from all sides. I also took advantage of the view to see where we'd be trying to catch the elusive lobster boat tour. This was when I realized that Portland is more of a town than a city. There are only 66,000 residents, and most of the city proper would be considered downtown. In retrospect I believe it's the best place to start your Portland trip. Later in our other tours of Portland the Observatory was always mentioned, and I listened closely to make sure they had their facts correct, because I had the patience to make it through the tour and learned some lessons in the process.
We came upon the Observatory by fate, and I'm glad we did. Our original plan was to be downtown to ride on a lobster boat but since we had an hour to kill we thought we'd first see the Observatory, then drive downtown, park, and buy the tickets for the tour with time to spare. Of course this was totally unrealistic, but it made sense at the time. We bought our tickets for the Observatory tour, then waited, and waited some more. They only take smaller groups as space is limited, and try to space them out to avoid congestion.
We arrived at midpoint of one of these groups that form, and then had to wait for the preceding group to move up further and a couple of more tourists to take the tour with us. Then the cashier went to grab lunch so the volunteer guide was stuck watching the till. As the minutes passed I realized our plans to go on the lobster boat were slipping away. I really struggle with moments like this due to my chronic, monumental impatience. I tried to tell myself that it was a beautiful day and that there would more tours to catch, and to just enjoy the one I was about to take.
Finally our group embarked and winded our way up the four or five flights of stairs, with a short break on each floor for some information about how and why it was built along with all the history. It was built in 1807 as a way to communicate between the incoming ship on the Atlantic Ocean and the boat owners on the harbor. When the watchman could see the incoming flags we would hoist the same flag so the down on the harbor they knew their ship was coming and make preparations.
The highlight was reaching the top floor, feeling the cool breeze, and seeing Portland and the surrounding waters from all sides. I also took advantage of the view to see where we'd be trying to catch the elusive lobster boat tour. This was when I realized that Portland is more of a town than a city. There are only 66,000 residents, and most of the city proper would be considered downtown. In retrospect I believe it's the best place to start your Portland trip. Later in our other tours of Portland the Observatory was always mentioned, and I listened closely to make sure they had their facts correct, because I had the patience to make it through the tour and learned some lessons in the process.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Weight Watchers day 10 - willpower
The decision to exercise willpower is a moment of truth for any dieter or recovering addict. I had one of those moments today. Earlier in the day I only spent points on breakfast cereal and lunch at Subway. I took my two boys out to Pizza Hut as one of the only things they'll ever agree on is pizza. I ordered cheesy breadsticks and the cheese lovers pizza for them and the chicken ceasar salad with dressing on the side for me.
When the boys food arrived I could nearly taste the pizza and feel how satisfying it would be to scarf down a couple of slices and some breadsticks. In this instance Weight Watchers gave me most of the willpower I needed. If I'd been just "watching my weight" or "trying to cut back on carbs" I'm fairly certain I would have had a minimum of two slices and a breadstick. I could have found a dozen ways to justify it. I patiently waited for my order. The chicken was grilled, I dipped into just a little dressing, and avoided most of the croutons. I figure it was about 6 to 8 points.
With Weight Watchers at this point I want results more than justifying why I ate a certain food at a certain moment. I know many that do the program say it's important not to deny yourself constantly and allow for occasional indulgences as long as your points allow. I'm sure I will at some point. One technique that some people can use to control anger is to ask themselves if the situation will still make them angry in an hour, a day, or a week. The answer is usually no. I tried to tell myself that with the pizza too. If I don't have it, will I still want it in an hour or later in the night. Tonight the answer was no, and I felt good about it later.
When the boys food arrived I could nearly taste the pizza and feel how satisfying it would be to scarf down a couple of slices and some breadsticks. In this instance Weight Watchers gave me most of the willpower I needed. If I'd been just "watching my weight" or "trying to cut back on carbs" I'm fairly certain I would have had a minimum of two slices and a breadstick. I could have found a dozen ways to justify it. I patiently waited for my order. The chicken was grilled, I dipped into just a little dressing, and avoided most of the croutons. I figure it was about 6 to 8 points.
With Weight Watchers at this point I want results more than justifying why I ate a certain food at a certain moment. I know many that do the program say it's important not to deny yourself constantly and allow for occasional indulgences as long as your points allow. I'm sure I will at some point. One technique that some people can use to control anger is to ask themselves if the situation will still make them angry in an hour, a day, or a week. The answer is usually no. I tried to tell myself that with the pizza too. If I don't have it, will I still want it in an hour or later in the night. Tonight the answer was no, and I felt good about it later.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Weight Watchers day 9 - spice of life
Modern day Americans seek variety in many areas of life. There is a strong supply of products and services that cater to large and small audiences. It's common for people to have a varied tastes in literature, music, hobbies, and much more. Food is no exception. The American diet is such a mix of different foods that you could go weeks without repeating the same meal if you desired.
Pre-WW I would eat so many different dishes that repeating so many of the same foods for the last eight days has started to irk me. I made it to lunch and went to Blimpie's instead of Subway. Not much of a difference there but it was five more points. My wife made a reportedly delicous cheddar broccoli soup but I decided to forgo the 23 points for a medium Mexican dinner. I went to La Granjero, a small Mexican dive on the West side of Grand Rapids, for a meat and guacamole taco, rice, and beans. Since I hadn't eaten in over 6 hours I was satisfied but not overly full. I felt good about the day since I was able to eat some tasty foods and stayed on budget. Subway and salad can wait until tomorrow.
Pre-WW I would eat so many different dishes that repeating so many of the same foods for the last eight days has started to irk me. I made it to lunch and went to Blimpie's instead of Subway. Not much of a difference there but it was five more points. My wife made a reportedly delicous cheddar broccoli soup but I decided to forgo the 23 points for a medium Mexican dinner. I went to La Granjero, a small Mexican dive on the West side of Grand Rapids, for a meat and guacamole taco, rice, and beans. Since I hadn't eaten in over 6 hours I was satisfied but not overly full. I felt good about the day since I was able to eat some tasty foods and stayed on budget. Subway and salad can wait until tomorrow.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Weight Watchers Day 8 - first weigh in
After a few easy days I was frustrated to have a difficult day. Everything started well as I weighed in 5 lbs. lighter than my original weight. My points allowance went from 49 to 46. I went to Moe's again for lunch and that took up half my points for the day. By dinner I was hungry, and later wanted to snack. I went slightly over budget, but my activity points brought me back to even.
My plan is to lose another 5 lbs. this week. Tomorrow I'll lunch at Subway and have a mostly carb free dinner. Today was an aberration.
My plan is to lose another 5 lbs. this week. Tomorrow I'll lunch at Subway and have a mostly carb free dinner. Today was an aberration.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Maine vacation day one - arrival to Portland
This February my wife and I marked 15 years of marriage. We've talked for years about taking a major vacation. Italy and Greece were what we talked about most. Alas, it was not in the cards for various reasons, namely lack of time and money. We decided to go somewhere new and Maine in August sounded nice.
We arrived to the Portland Jetport about 6pm. As we walked to the baggage claim area I noticed all the late-middle age and elderly New Englanders. They have pale, tough-looking exteriors but you can see a twinkle in the eye and an occasional smile. They tend to dress better than their cohorts in the rest of the US. With the ladies you can see the usual signs of aging but can tell that probably 20 years ago they were beautiful, not to mention 30 or 40 years ago.
With printed Google maps in hand we left and had an 8 minute ride to the Days Inn in South Portland. If only it were that simple. As expected we got into a category 3 argument because we both were disoriented by the lousy maps and did not know whether to go straight, left, or right at the first stop sign. My instinct was left, which ended up being correct. But I let my wife be wrong about the other two directions first. Eventually it was easy to find.
I didn't know then how easy it would be to move around the Greater Portland area. On our way to the Flatbread Company for dinner we managed to argue some more about which exit to get off, then who to ask for help (or not), and whether the water was this way or that (it was both). A nice pedestrian eventually told us how to get to Commercial Street, and life started getting better.
Flatbread Company is right on the harbor. It serves a number of local and regional beers as well as delicious wood-fired flatbread pizzas. It has a noisy indoor section and a calmer outdoor section. I walked away quite satisfied. After poking around a bit looking for activities the next day, we headed back to South Portland, looking forward to returning the next day, and knowing at least how to find out way back peacefully.
We arrived to the Portland Jetport about 6pm. As we walked to the baggage claim area I noticed all the late-middle age and elderly New Englanders. They have pale, tough-looking exteriors but you can see a twinkle in the eye and an occasional smile. They tend to dress better than their cohorts in the rest of the US. With the ladies you can see the usual signs of aging but can tell that probably 20 years ago they were beautiful, not to mention 30 or 40 years ago.
With printed Google maps in hand we left and had an 8 minute ride to the Days Inn in South Portland. If only it were that simple. As expected we got into a category 3 argument because we both were disoriented by the lousy maps and did not know whether to go straight, left, or right at the first stop sign. My instinct was left, which ended up being correct. But I let my wife be wrong about the other two directions first. Eventually it was easy to find.
I didn't know then how easy it would be to move around the Greater Portland area. On our way to the Flatbread Company for dinner we managed to argue some more about which exit to get off, then who to ask for help (or not), and whether the water was this way or that (it was both). A nice pedestrian eventually told us how to get to Commercial Street, and life started getting better.
Flatbread Company is right on the harbor. It serves a number of local and regional beers as well as delicious wood-fired flatbread pizzas. It has a noisy indoor section and a calmer outdoor section. I walked away quite satisfied. After poking around a bit looking for activities the next day, we headed back to South Portland, looking forward to returning the next day, and knowing at least how to find out way back peacefully.
Weight Watchers Day 7
Today my wife told me that my face looked "a lot" skinnier. She did a double take and retracted that statement and said it looked "skinnier". Whether it's a lot or not I consider that progress. A friend I saw about six weeks ago mentioned that I looked different or smaller or something like that. I believe the fat that is most attached to the skin is the first to go. I think I once read that the reason the mid-section carries a lot of excess weight is that is where so many organs are located.
I'm looking forward to a weigh-in tomorrow and trying to manage my hopes. I've had no issues coming in under budget. Tonight I even drank a beer and ate some banana creme pie and still made it.
I'm looking forward to a weigh-in tomorrow and trying to manage my hopes. I've had no issues coming in under budget. Tonight I even drank a beer and ate some banana creme pie and still made it.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Weight Watchers Day 6
Today I felt a disharmony between my mind and body. Normally they are aligned when to think about and then eat food. If the body hunger perks up first then the mind quickly agrees or vice versa. Or sometimes it happens simultaneously. Today my mind was telling me that I was hungry but my body did not agree or react to the urgings of my mind. It was mid-afternoon. At that point in the day I'd had a banana and cereal for breakfast and Subway (again) for lunch. I felt like I could go hours more with out eating. Eventually we sat down to dinner and had tilapia, shrimp, and some grilled vegetables. Later when watching the UM vs. ND football game I had popcorn and a rum and diet coke. I've been mostly free of cravings.
Tomorrow I'll hope to keep up the positive momentum.
Tomorrow I'll hope to keep up the positive momentum.
Friday, September 21, 2012
Weight Watchers day 5 - Parsley Mediterranean Grille
Another day, hopefully another few ounces away. Feeling confident that I would come in under budget again, I had bacon and sausage with two eggs this morning. I had the Doritos, not Sun Chips or Baked Lays, with my 6 inch Subway sandwich. This put me in a slightly compromised position for dinner, but I was able to cope. My wife and I ate dinnner at Parsley Meditteranean Grille. I ordered the shrimp kebob, house salad, and grilled vegetables. It was served with a pita, which I did eat. The food was tasty enough, but I didn't have that full or overfull feeling that I normally get eating out. I suppose I ate like a "normal", healthy person.
The owner lady walked by and I asked her where the food was from. She said it was Mediterranean, which I'd already surmised from the name of the place. But where in the Mediterranean? She said it was all Lebanese food except for the gyros which are from Greece. She mentioned the gyros almost dismissively, but her business savvy showed in admitting that they are top sellers. I though it made good business sense in how she promoted the fare. A Lebanese restaurant might be viewed as too ethnic for this Midwestern town.
Meditteranean conjures up images of wine, cruise ships on blue waters, Italy, and Greek isles.
I recommend Parsley if you like Lebanese/Greek type food.
The owner lady walked by and I asked her where the food was from. She said it was Mediterranean, which I'd already surmised from the name of the place. But where in the Mediterranean? She said it was all Lebanese food except for the gyros which are from Greece. She mentioned the gyros almost dismissively, but her business savvy showed in admitting that they are top sellers. I though it made good business sense in how she promoted the fare. A Lebanese restaurant might be viewed as too ethnic for this Midwestern town.
Meditteranean conjures up images of wine, cruise ships on blue waters, Italy, and Greek isles.
I recommend Parsley if you like Lebanese/Greek type food.
Weight Watchers day 4 - Beware the Queso
At lunch today I planned to swim but the pool was closed because of contamination. This afforded me the time to try something different than Subway. I decided to go to Moe's for a Joey Jr. burrito. As I was going to pay the cashier I noticed to me the preceding customers had ordered Queso, or so I thought. As she put my order together I noticed a Queso being readied. I asked her what it was and she said "Queso." When I looked at it quizzedly she elaborated, "It's free today and tomorrow." I said I didn't want it. She looked confused for a few seconds because apparently she hadn't had that response yet.
I went on to enjoy my burrito, chips, and drink. Later I looked up the nutritional info Moe's website for a cup of Queso. It's the worst calorie for calorie food I've ever seen for fat and sodium content.
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet
I think it's great that Americans have the freedom to eat something like this consequences be damned. But I don't think Moe's should just be ladling it out and giving it away. Or maybe they could just call it what it is, "Bowl of Salty Fatty Cheese", instead of the cute sounding Spanish translation. It really has no redeeming nutritional quality. I think it would be worse than McDonald's giving away a large fries and ice cream to every paying customer. Fortunately I was on Weight Watchers at the moment and didn't accept it as I likely would have eaten it as a complement to my tortilla chips.
I went on to enjoy my burrito, chips, and drink. Later I looked up the nutritional info Moe's website for a cup of Queso. It's the worst calorie for calorie food I've ever seen for fat and sodium content.
Nutritional Info
info
Add Ons & Extras
Amount Per Serving
Calories 460 Calories From Fat 350
Calories 460 Calories From Fat 350
% Daily Value*
Total Fat
39g
60%
Saturated Fat
23g
115%
Trans Fatty Acids
0g
Monounsaturated Fat
0g
Polyunsaturated Fat
0g
Cholesterol
115mg
38%
Sodium
1760mg
73%
Total Carbohydrate
15g
5%
Dietary Fiber
0g
0%
Sugars
2g
Proteins
18g
Vitamin A
0%
Vitamin C
0%
Calcium
0%
Iron
0%
I think it's great that Americans have the freedom to eat something like this consequences be damned. But I don't think Moe's should just be ladling it out and giving it away. Or maybe they could just call it what it is, "Bowl of Salty Fatty Cheese", instead of the cute sounding Spanish translation. It really has no redeeming nutritional quality. I think it would be worse than McDonald's giving away a large fries and ice cream to every paying customer. Fortunately I was on Weight Watchers at the moment and didn't accept it as I likely would have eaten it as a complement to my tortilla chips.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Weight Watchers day 3
Although I made it through the day comfortably under budget on points, there were some warning signs that I must overcome tomorrow and beyond. First was the peanut butter craving I had in the morning. I used to often have peanut butter on toast as a mid-morning snack. I would justify it as a healthy alternative to a big M&M cookie. The other warning sign is that I'm already tired of eating carrots, green beans, cantaloupe, and especially salad. I've also had Subway for lunch three straight days. I can't possibly eat it again tomorrow.
Tomorrow I need to mix it up a bit and try some different foods. Old habits die hard!
Tomorrow I need to mix it up a bit and try some different foods. Old habits die hard!
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Weight Watchers Day 2
Based on my current size Weight Watchers has been kind enough allot me 49 points per day, and an additional 49 that I can draw from over the course of the week. It almost seems too easy at this point. I can eat breakfast of cereal with milk, have all the fruits and veggies I want during the day at no cost, go to Subway for lunch, have dinner, and then another bowl of cereal at night. Throw in a little exercise and I've been under budget two days in row.
Like fasting I know that it's easy to get through the early stages. At some point my mind and/or body is going to revolt against these behavior changes and urge me to return to my previous ways. That what will determine my success more so than how I do in the first day or two. I think these are the easiest of all.
Like fasting I know that it's easy to get through the early stages. At some point my mind and/or body is going to revolt against these behavior changes and urge me to return to my previous ways. That what will determine my success more so than how I do in the first day or two. I think these are the easiest of all.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Weight Watchers Day 1
I'm 5 foot 11 and weigh 230 lbs. According to the BMI, 179 lbs is the high part of the normal range for a 5'11" male. When I was in college I weighed between 175 and 185 lbs. I've added pounds steadily since I was 24 years old.
I could go on about the sedentary lifestyle, the food industry, advertising, and the like but I won't. I am going to focus on sticking to this program until I get the results I need. On this first day I followed it and stayed within the parameters. I hope you'll read along as I go and do the same if you need to. I could write a book about why I need to do this. I did WW many years and 20 lbs. ago and it worked well. I'm expecting the same from WW this time and more from myself to see this through.
I could go on about the sedentary lifestyle, the food industry, advertising, and the like but I won't. I am going to focus on sticking to this program until I get the results I need. On this first day I followed it and stayed within the parameters. I hope you'll read along as I go and do the same if you need to. I could write a book about why I need to do this. I did WW many years and 20 lbs. ago and it worked well. I'm expecting the same from WW this time and more from myself to see this through.
Popayan day five - day at museums
Stiff beds make unwelcome travel companions. By this point in the trip I felt there was nothing left to do, and the Hotel La Plazuela was starting to feel less charming by the day. Not only did the bed feel stiffer than ever, but the early sunrise and stream of traffic noises coming into my second-floor room were affecting my sleep. I was ready to move on to Bogota, but financially needed to stay in Popayan. I decided to make the most of the day.
I first went to the Guillermo Leon Valencia museum where I learned about the man who was President from 1962-1966. A short walk brought me to the Museo Negret. Edgar Negret is 92 year old sculptor well known in Colombian art circles. I was told the museum was closed. I tried my powers of persuasion because I had nothing else to do and after a couple of minutes was handed an invitation and told to return at 7pm in better clothes. Next was the Museum of Natural History. There I saw a place that had kept a taxidermist busy for some time. There were all sorts of collections of animals and rocks. Colombia counts the second highest number of species in the world after Brazil. I concluded the day at the Catholic Archdiocese Museum, where more than anything I felt what it was like to see the same art that people saw 200 years ago. They were the only place that had an admission charge, but waived it since the guide never showed up and I was forced to walk it alone.
At night I put on a shirt and tie and went to the Museo Negret. There was a recognition that night that the museum was one site of 12 that was part of a national focus on the arts. I chatted brifely with a couple of people but was mostly ignored. This musuem was interesting for about 10 minutes. The crowd was the same sort of artsy crowd you could find in any city of the world. I left after the presentation and went for some good eats before trying to turn in early and get ready for my early flight to Bogota.
At this point in the trip I felt that a trip to Popayan proper was really only worth one or two days. In hindsight I would have shortened my trip by a day or spent another day in the capital.
I first went to the Guillermo Leon Valencia museum where I learned about the man who was President from 1962-1966. A short walk brought me to the Museo Negret. Edgar Negret is 92 year old sculptor well known in Colombian art circles. I was told the museum was closed. I tried my powers of persuasion because I had nothing else to do and after a couple of minutes was handed an invitation and told to return at 7pm in better clothes. Next was the Museum of Natural History. There I saw a place that had kept a taxidermist busy for some time. There were all sorts of collections of animals and rocks. Colombia counts the second highest number of species in the world after Brazil. I concluded the day at the Catholic Archdiocese Museum, where more than anything I felt what it was like to see the same art that people saw 200 years ago. They were the only place that had an admission charge, but waived it since the guide never showed up and I was forced to walk it alone.
At night I put on a shirt and tie and went to the Museo Negret. There was a recognition that night that the museum was one site of 12 that was part of a national focus on the arts. I chatted brifely with a couple of people but was mostly ignored. This musuem was interesting for about 10 minutes. The crowd was the same sort of artsy crowd you could find in any city of the world. I left after the presentation and went for some good eats before trying to turn in early and get ready for my early flight to Bogota.
At this point in the trip I felt that a trip to Popayan proper was really only worth one or two days. In hindsight I would have shortened my trip by a day or spent another day in the capital.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
The bliss of bike riding
For many people in our sedentary, car-obsessed society, seeing the city from anywhere but behind a windshield is a foreign concept. It's a moderate exercise which can be sustained for longer periods without the boredom or being too easy or the fatigue of being too difficult. And the things you can see!
I was careless with a bike when I was about 13 and it was taken or stolen depending on your opinion. I left it unlocked behind some bushes at a shopping mall. Since then my relationship with them has been complicated because I don't want to spend money on them to somehow make up for my error. This summer I was fortunate to receive a good bicycle for free and the more rides I've taken, the more it has grown on me.
I would classify myself as a recreational bike rider. I wear no helmet and my bike is built more for comfort than speed. I often see speedy cyclists zooming around in the spandex and colorful shirts, with helmet and a serious focus. I think they miss a lot. I prefer to cruise down hills to feel the wind in my face and take detours into places I haven't seen. I can bike through neighborhoods I wouldn't want to walk through. I can look at historic houses for 15 seconds instead of the three or four you'd have in a car. I see people walking and talking, hear dogs barking, cross over the river and back, and get sprayed by sprinklers. I take the sidewalk until I can get in the street and then retreat back when necessary. It's like being a kid again, before I was old enough to drive.
I was careless with a bike when I was about 13 and it was taken or stolen depending on your opinion. I left it unlocked behind some bushes at a shopping mall. Since then my relationship with them has been complicated because I don't want to spend money on them to somehow make up for my error. This summer I was fortunate to receive a good bicycle for free and the more rides I've taken, the more it has grown on me.
I would classify myself as a recreational bike rider. I wear no helmet and my bike is built more for comfort than speed. I often see speedy cyclists zooming around in the spandex and colorful shirts, with helmet and a serious focus. I think they miss a lot. I prefer to cruise down hills to feel the wind in my face and take detours into places I haven't seen. I can bike through neighborhoods I wouldn't want to walk through. I can look at historic houses for 15 seconds instead of the three or four you'd have in a car. I see people walking and talking, hear dogs barking, cross over the river and back, and get sprayed by sprinklers. I take the sidewalk until I can get in the street and then retreat back when necessary. It's like being a kid again, before I was old enough to drive.
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