Today I was writing my post when the missus popped in the study for a quick chat. She saw Guinea's Blog written at the top and said, "You have a blog"? She was a bit surprised.
When I started this diary I didn't know where it would go, whether it would be a help or a hindrance, or whether I would every reveal who I was. So I kept it a secret. Only one person I know in real life knows it exists, and he's in Australia.
I've been feeling bad about the fact that I never told her about this, and wondered how I ever would. As it turned out, she wasn't to bothered. I asked her not to look in my Lighterlife diary when I got it, and I think she views this in the same way. This is a good thing, I don't want her to know about the latest fishing spend for a while.
As time has gone on I've really valued the time I've spent writing on here and well as reading other's blogs and comments when they come in. I read very few other blogs, but will need to start following the comments on Lesley's and the Mrs' blogs. So, thanks to all the have read and written, I really appreciate it.
Tuesday 31 July 2007
Day Eighty Four... weigh in
I decided to work from home today since I had to wait for the couriers to pick up the bike. A quick phone call to the helpful lady at Interparcel first thing sorted out the problem.
I then caught up with my email and did what I needed to do until about 3pm when I decided to go fishing. I wanted to use my new kit and the afternoon looked really gorgeous. After a quick drive out of London, I arrived at the fishery. It's a series of three lakes which normally are very clear, however, today they looked a bit green. There was a lot of weed which is common on these small lakes in the warm weather. This makes the fishing pretty hard.
I didn't catch for the first hour or so on the big lake, so I moved to the smaller on on the far end where I caught a fish almost straight away. It was a lovely looking rainbow trout which I put back. I put almost all the fish I catch back, unless I am to eat them or I have an order from a mate. At the lakes I was at today, you are supposed to kill all the fish you catch. You buy a ticket that entitles you to a number of fish and once you catch them you leave. To make my ticket last a bit longer, and if nobody is looking, I release the fish.
I left earlier than I would have liked in case I was delayed in traffic on the journey back to London. I didn't want to be late for my Lighterlife session tonight. Of course this meant that the traffic was perfect and I made it back in record time.
At the session I did a keto stick just before getting weighed to get every last ounce out of me. I'm not normally that bothered, but recently my weight loss has slowed and I expected this week to be the same. My expectations were right. I lost 3lbs again this week. I understand that on Weight Watchers that would be an amazing week, but for 8 weeks or so I averaged 7lbs a week, so it's really peanuts.
There is some good news though. This has taken my total up to 72lbs and I have broken through the 5 stones barrier. That's a hell of a load of weight to lose, especially when I still really don't notice the difference. I did get measured again. All the numbers were down. My chest is decreasing more rapidly than my gut though. When I started my chest was broader than my belly. Now the opposite is true. I'm going to end up pear shaped!
The group was strange today. One of the regulars wasn't there as his shifts were in the way. The other two guys both cheated. I have, so far, remained 100% on Lighterlife without deviation. I have too much weight to lose, and simply do not think I could see the next three of four months through if I was always tempted. I'm probably an all or nothing kind of guy. It seems that some people can cheat no problem, but I am just not going to risk it.
Milk Week. I've heard lots about this, and tried to look up information online about it. Since I've just finished my 12th week I expected it to be mentioned on my session tonight, but it didn't come up. I'm not really looking forward to it when, or if, it comes along. I haven't had a glass of milk for 20 years and the idea of one now does not fill me with joy. For those who don't know, Milk Week is a way of getting your calories up over 1000 for a week to give your body a rest from the assault that is a VLCD. It consists of drinking milk, either in your shakes or just on its own. I've wondered if anyone has a solution that's better? I thought of cheese? However, it's a trigger food and might be the worst thing to eat. Especially since it's something I specifically thought (fantasized?) about.
I then caught up with my email and did what I needed to do until about 3pm when I decided to go fishing. I wanted to use my new kit and the afternoon looked really gorgeous. After a quick drive out of London, I arrived at the fishery. It's a series of three lakes which normally are very clear, however, today they looked a bit green. There was a lot of weed which is common on these small lakes in the warm weather. This makes the fishing pretty hard.
I didn't catch for the first hour or so on the big lake, so I moved to the smaller on on the far end where I caught a fish almost straight away. It was a lovely looking rainbow trout which I put back. I put almost all the fish I catch back, unless I am to eat them or I have an order from a mate. At the lakes I was at today, you are supposed to kill all the fish you catch. You buy a ticket that entitles you to a number of fish and once you catch them you leave. To make my ticket last a bit longer, and if nobody is looking, I release the fish.
I left earlier than I would have liked in case I was delayed in traffic on the journey back to London. I didn't want to be late for my Lighterlife session tonight. Of course this meant that the traffic was perfect and I made it back in record time.
At the session I did a keto stick just before getting weighed to get every last ounce out of me. I'm not normally that bothered, but recently my weight loss has slowed and I expected this week to be the same. My expectations were right. I lost 3lbs again this week. I understand that on Weight Watchers that would be an amazing week, but for 8 weeks or so I averaged 7lbs a week, so it's really peanuts.
There is some good news though. This has taken my total up to 72lbs and I have broken through the 5 stones barrier. That's a hell of a load of weight to lose, especially when I still really don't notice the difference. I did get measured again. All the numbers were down. My chest is decreasing more rapidly than my gut though. When I started my chest was broader than my belly. Now the opposite is true. I'm going to end up pear shaped!
The group was strange today. One of the regulars wasn't there as his shifts were in the way. The other two guys both cheated. I have, so far, remained 100% on Lighterlife without deviation. I have too much weight to lose, and simply do not think I could see the next three of four months through if I was always tempted. I'm probably an all or nothing kind of guy. It seems that some people can cheat no problem, but I am just not going to risk it.
Milk Week. I've heard lots about this, and tried to look up information online about it. Since I've just finished my 12th week I expected it to be mentioned on my session tonight, but it didn't come up. I'm not really looking forward to it when, or if, it comes along. I haven't had a glass of milk for 20 years and the idea of one now does not fill me with joy. For those who don't know, Milk Week is a way of getting your calories up over 1000 for a week to give your body a rest from the assault that is a VLCD. It consists of drinking milk, either in your shakes or just on its own. I've wondered if anyone has a solution that's better? I thought of cheese? However, it's a trigger food and might be the worst thing to eat. Especially since it's something I specifically thought (fantasized?) about.
Monday 30 July 2007
Day Eighty Three...
Had a nightmare day today. I had to stay and work from home for various reasons and took advantage to get my old bike picked up by PArcelforce. This caused a problem due to the fact that my box was too long. I repackaged the bike with the front wheel off to get it under the magic 150cm and then they still rejected it. Apparently they don't accept any parcel which is over 300cm round. Since the longest is 150 this means that they expect parcels with 0cm width. Maybe a big sheet of paper?
So they were a waste of time so I used Interparcel. They were more expensive, but would take the larger parcel. However, they didn't turn up. About 5.30 I checked the details to make sure I didn't make a mistake. The receipt had the address in the wrong order. Whatever system takes the postcode and house number and screwed up my address and the delivery guy would have gone to a neighbours. Bugger.
So now I need to piss around chasing this tomorrow too.
I went to the bowling alley again this weekend. That was fun. I'm not getting any better, but it's good to be out mucking around. I didn't give McDonald's a second look this week.
I'm off to get an early night. I've had a twinge start to appear in my back in recent weeks and I may have aggravated it tonight, so I want to give it a rest. I still need to have a pack before bed, so I'll be up in the night for a pee.
So they were a waste of time so I used Interparcel. They were more expensive, but would take the larger parcel. However, they didn't turn up. About 5.30 I checked the details to make sure I didn't make a mistake. The receipt had the address in the wrong order. Whatever system takes the postcode and house number and screwed up my address and the delivery guy would have gone to a neighbours. Bugger.
So now I need to piss around chasing this tomorrow too.
I went to the bowling alley again this weekend. That was fun. I'm not getting any better, but it's good to be out mucking around. I didn't give McDonald's a second look this week.
I'm off to get an early night. I've had a twinge start to appear in my back in recent weeks and I may have aggravated it tonight, so I want to give it a rest. I still need to have a pack before bed, so I'll be up in the night for a pee.
Sunday 29 July 2007
Day Eighty Two...
I woke up this morning quite early, but feeling refreshed after a long night's sleep. After a quick surf on the internet I decided to head to Decathlon sports shop to get a few things. I wanted to t-shirts and some cycling shorts. The shorts I have are too big, and are falling apart. I also packed my golf clubs, and decided to hit a few balls at the range on the way back.
At Decathlon I didn't see much that I wanted to be honest. I bought a couple of pairs of cycling shorts and a bicycle tool box. I need this as I can't get the pedals off the bike I sold on ebay. I need the pedals off or it doesn't fit it the box.
Once I finished in the sports shop I wend to the golf driving range. I bought 50 balls and selected a bay. I pulled out my seven iron, did a few stretches, a few practice swings and lined up my first shot. This is the first time I've swung a club since I started my diet, so I wondered if it would affect my game. At the end of last year I was playing pretty well so I expected to do ok today. My first shot was a shambles, no height and off to the left. The next load were all exactly the same. It took until about a dozen balls before I finally smacked one up the middle with a good flight. I then gained some consistency and hit a few nice ones before moving on to the driver. I normally hit that quite far but with a fade which carries it to the right, but today they went low and left. It was very confusing. To finish off I took out my five wood and hit them off the ground with no tee. Every one went straight, high and true. It was a good way to finish and head to the putting greens. On the greens my putting was pretty good. I never used to be a good putter, but in recent years I've become dynamite round the greens. Today was no exception. I tried from various distances and over 100 putts. I didn't have the dreaded three-putt once. I found the range made my hands sore. I don't know if that's because I'm weaker than before, or just because I haven't used those muscles for a while.
At home I said goodbye to my old bicycle and packed it away ready for posting tomorrow. I'll take it round to the parcel depot before I go to work in the morning. I hope the knew owners take good care of it.
Now I have to work out what I'm going to spend the £320 I have in my paypal account on!
Oh, my bum still hurts. I've drunk so much water today that it better not happen again.
At Decathlon I didn't see much that I wanted to be honest. I bought a couple of pairs of cycling shorts and a bicycle tool box. I need this as I can't get the pedals off the bike I sold on ebay. I need the pedals off or it doesn't fit it the box.
Once I finished in the sports shop I wend to the golf driving range. I bought 50 balls and selected a bay. I pulled out my seven iron, did a few stretches, a few practice swings and lined up my first shot. This is the first time I've swung a club since I started my diet, so I wondered if it would affect my game. At the end of last year I was playing pretty well so I expected to do ok today. My first shot was a shambles, no height and off to the left. The next load were all exactly the same. It took until about a dozen balls before I finally smacked one up the middle with a good flight. I then gained some consistency and hit a few nice ones before moving on to the driver. I normally hit that quite far but with a fade which carries it to the right, but today they went low and left. It was very confusing. To finish off I took out my five wood and hit them off the ground with no tee. Every one went straight, high and true. It was a good way to finish and head to the putting greens. On the greens my putting was pretty good. I never used to be a good putter, but in recent years I've become dynamite round the greens. Today was no exception. I tried from various distances and over 100 putts. I didn't have the dreaded three-putt once. I found the range made my hands sore. I don't know if that's because I'm weaker than before, or just because I haven't used those muscles for a while.
At home I said goodbye to my old bicycle and packed it away ready for posting tomorrow. I'll take it round to the parcel depot before I go to work in the morning. I hope the knew owners take good care of it.
Now I have to work out what I'm going to spend the £320 I have in my paypal account on!
Oh, my bum still hurts. I've drunk so much water today that it better not happen again.
Day Eighty One...
I got out of bed at about quarter past five this morning and creeped off for a shower. I put on my clothes laid out the night before. I did this in the spare room so I wouldn't wake the missus. Then I headed for the kitchen and made a huge racket as I mixed up breakfast.
I left the house around quarter to six and headed off fishing. Unfortunately I had to go via work as I needed to pick up a few things. I drove down the M3 in good time, it's always very quiet at that time of the day. When I got close I had a few minutes to spare, so I stopped off in Stockbridge. The River Test runs right through the town and there is a spot where the tourists throw bread into the river. There are always at least 20 huge brown trout waiting for the bread. Whenever someone throws a bit in, they go crazy fighting each other for it. It's an amazing sight and instills hope that my day will be good.
After a chat with the river keeper I find I am allowed to fish with nymphs, so it isn't just dry fly today. That will make things a lot easier. As soon as I arrive at the river I get changed, set up my rods, check my line, examine my fly box and pick a few favourites before walking to the river. I set up one rod with a dry fly, a big daddy longs legs imitation, and the other, my new rod, with a Czech nymph.
The first stretch of river looks like it has no fish, and I use this to make sure by dry fly presentation is ok. By this I mean that the line sits properly in the water without coils and the fly is buoyant. It normally takes me a few tweaks to get it perfect and today was no exception. After a few casts it was fine and I started to fish for real.
I found a part of the river well covered by trees and decided to have a cast upstream with the nymph. Ont he first cast I got a small bite, but I lifted the rod into nothing. I did the exact same cast, this time more alert, the bite happened at exactly the same point, I struck much faster this time and was in contact with a fish. I was delighted. This was my fist hook up with my new rod and reel and it only took two casts. The fish gave a great account of itself and took a lot of line from me. I hadn't adjusted my reel properly and it caused me two over-runs which can leave your line in a huge tangle. Luckily I got away with it. After about 10 minutes I had a fish I'd estimate at between 5-7lbs in the net. I quickly unhooked it, took a photo of it with my camera beside my new rod and released it. After about 30s in the water, it flicked its tail very hard and swam away leaving me with a splashed face. I caught another about five minutes later using the same technique. As I moved out of the shade and into the morning sun the fishing got a lot harder. Then I saw a trout right at the edge of the river. I sneaked up behind it and dropped the daddy long legs in front of it. The second my fly hit the water the fish swam straight for it. Unfortunately, in my excitement, I struck to early and the fish missed it. However the fish returned to the same spot and was not spooked at all. I repeated my cast and this time didn't make the previous mistake. After a couple of minutes I had my third fish.
The day continued like that until I decided I'd had enough and drove home. I caught six trout. Three on the dry fly and three on the nymphs. I was pretty chuffed as I drove home.
As soon as I got back home I had a shake and went for a lie down. Although I was knackered I tried not to sleep since I knew it would ruin my sleep later. Unfortunately I dozed for about an hour and a half after which I forced myself get up and watch a movie. Eventually I went to bed around eleven o'clock and slept straight though with no interruptions. An early rise and a days fishing outdoors tires me out like nothing else.
I should also note that before going to bed I needed to nip off for a #2. Ouch. Really, really ouch. It was sore before, but last night was agony. My bum is still in discomfort today. I'm sure I'm shitting sideways as the moment. I wasn't sure if this was down to having one day where I only drank half the recommended amount of water but I'm going to have a look at the tips offered the last time I mentioned this.
I left the house around quarter to six and headed off fishing. Unfortunately I had to go via work as I needed to pick up a few things. I drove down the M3 in good time, it's always very quiet at that time of the day. When I got close I had a few minutes to spare, so I stopped off in Stockbridge. The River Test runs right through the town and there is a spot where the tourists throw bread into the river. There are always at least 20 huge brown trout waiting for the bread. Whenever someone throws a bit in, they go crazy fighting each other for it. It's an amazing sight and instills hope that my day will be good.
After a chat with the river keeper I find I am allowed to fish with nymphs, so it isn't just dry fly today. That will make things a lot easier. As soon as I arrive at the river I get changed, set up my rods, check my line, examine my fly box and pick a few favourites before walking to the river. I set up one rod with a dry fly, a big daddy longs legs imitation, and the other, my new rod, with a Czech nymph.
The first stretch of river looks like it has no fish, and I use this to make sure by dry fly presentation is ok. By this I mean that the line sits properly in the water without coils and the fly is buoyant. It normally takes me a few tweaks to get it perfect and today was no exception. After a few casts it was fine and I started to fish for real.
I found a part of the river well covered by trees and decided to have a cast upstream with the nymph. Ont he first cast I got a small bite, but I lifted the rod into nothing. I did the exact same cast, this time more alert, the bite happened at exactly the same point, I struck much faster this time and was in contact with a fish. I was delighted. This was my fist hook up with my new rod and reel and it only took two casts. The fish gave a great account of itself and took a lot of line from me. I hadn't adjusted my reel properly and it caused me two over-runs which can leave your line in a huge tangle. Luckily I got away with it. After about 10 minutes I had a fish I'd estimate at between 5-7lbs in the net. I quickly unhooked it, took a photo of it with my camera beside my new rod and released it. After about 30s in the water, it flicked its tail very hard and swam away leaving me with a splashed face. I caught another about five minutes later using the same technique. As I moved out of the shade and into the morning sun the fishing got a lot harder. Then I saw a trout right at the edge of the river. I sneaked up behind it and dropped the daddy long legs in front of it. The second my fly hit the water the fish swam straight for it. Unfortunately, in my excitement, I struck to early and the fish missed it. However the fish returned to the same spot and was not spooked at all. I repeated my cast and this time didn't make the previous mistake. After a couple of minutes I had my third fish.
The day continued like that until I decided I'd had enough and drove home. I caught six trout. Three on the dry fly and three on the nymphs. I was pretty chuffed as I drove home.
As soon as I got back home I had a shake and went for a lie down. Although I was knackered I tried not to sleep since I knew it would ruin my sleep later. Unfortunately I dozed for about an hour and a half after which I forced myself get up and watch a movie. Eventually I went to bed around eleven o'clock and slept straight though with no interruptions. An early rise and a days fishing outdoors tires me out like nothing else.
I should also note that before going to bed I needed to nip off for a #2. Ouch. Really, really ouch. It was sore before, but last night was agony. My bum is still in discomfort today. I'm sure I'm shitting sideways as the moment. I wasn't sure if this was down to having one day where I only drank half the recommended amount of water but I'm going to have a look at the tips offered the last time I mentioned this.
Friday 27 July 2007
Day Eighty...
I'm all excited as I write this. I decided to treat myself a little today. However, that little treat ended up being a lot bigger than I thought it would.
I decided to book myself a day's fishing tomorrow on the River Test. Most have never heard of this river, but it is the most famous of the chalk stream rivers in Hampshire and is the home of fly fishing. The water is usually crystal clear and the trout are always in good condition. The river is presented immaculately in a way that almost seems unnatural. The banks are mown, the weed cleared and nature given a helping hand everywhere possible. The result is a place that you expect to see hobbits running around but has the potential to provide fantastic fishing in great surroundings.
My first day fly fishing since I moved to London was on the Test a few years ago. I loved that day and fell in love with the place. It's a very expensive, and in some places exclusive, river to fish. There are also strict rules. You must use a fly that floats and represents an insect. You cannot use baits or sunken flies. You must also only cast upstream. These rules make it much harder to catch fish, and are there to make it more of a challenge for the "discerning gentleman".
I booked a ticket on a lovely part of the river tomorrow. It cost the best part of £100. This may sound like a lot of money for a day ticket, but it's not a lot for the Test.
Anyway, I needed to get some flies so I nipped off early from work and headed to Sportfish. I was after a pair of boots too, since the soles had fallen off my last pair. I tried on an XL jacket to see if I would fit into on. I normally wear XXL, but they are too big now. The XL was roomy, so I tried a L for a laugh. I just about fitted. It zipped up no problem, but was too short. I didn't buy, as I see no point in getting a few weeks of wear from a very expensive jacket.
When I got there I saw they had some fishing rods with 25% off. A bargain I thought and tried one out. It felt very nice. I decided to get it. Of course it need a new reel which also needed a new line. I managed to get a nice pair of boots too. So I left the shop £800 worse off and slightly confused. How did I manage to turn a fishing trip into £1000. Once I buy my ticket and fuel I am going to be seriously out of pocket. Heh, I'm not worried, the rod is lovely.
I'll be leaving the house sometime around 0630 tomorrow and will be ready bright and early to catch the first fish of the day.
Work was good today. We had a little presentation in the morning followed by champagne and bacon sandwiches, all dutify ignored by myself. Then when things quietened down I skived off for the rest of the day. Before I left, someone I hardly speak to, mentioned that I looked good. She said "you never notice with some people, but it really makes you look good". I assumed she meant my weight loss, thanked her and walked off quite chuffed.
I'd better be off to bed, need my sleep for tomorrow.
I decided to book myself a day's fishing tomorrow on the River Test. Most have never heard of this river, but it is the most famous of the chalk stream rivers in Hampshire and is the home of fly fishing. The water is usually crystal clear and the trout are always in good condition. The river is presented immaculately in a way that almost seems unnatural. The banks are mown, the weed cleared and nature given a helping hand everywhere possible. The result is a place that you expect to see hobbits running around but has the potential to provide fantastic fishing in great surroundings.
My first day fly fishing since I moved to London was on the Test a few years ago. I loved that day and fell in love with the place. It's a very expensive, and in some places exclusive, river to fish. There are also strict rules. You must use a fly that floats and represents an insect. You cannot use baits or sunken flies. You must also only cast upstream. These rules make it much harder to catch fish, and are there to make it more of a challenge for the "discerning gentleman".
I booked a ticket on a lovely part of the river tomorrow. It cost the best part of £100. This may sound like a lot of money for a day ticket, but it's not a lot for the Test.
Anyway, I needed to get some flies so I nipped off early from work and headed to Sportfish. I was after a pair of boots too, since the soles had fallen off my last pair. I tried on an XL jacket to see if I would fit into on. I normally wear XXL, but they are too big now. The XL was roomy, so I tried a L for a laugh. I just about fitted. It zipped up no problem, but was too short. I didn't buy, as I see no point in getting a few weeks of wear from a very expensive jacket.
When I got there I saw they had some fishing rods with 25% off. A bargain I thought and tried one out. It felt very nice. I decided to get it. Of course it need a new reel which also needed a new line. I managed to get a nice pair of boots too. So I left the shop £800 worse off and slightly confused. How did I manage to turn a fishing trip into £1000. Once I buy my ticket and fuel I am going to be seriously out of pocket. Heh, I'm not worried, the rod is lovely.
I'll be leaving the house sometime around 0630 tomorrow and will be ready bright and early to catch the first fish of the day.
Work was good today. We had a little presentation in the morning followed by champagne and bacon sandwiches, all dutify ignored by myself. Then when things quietened down I skived off for the rest of the day. Before I left, someone I hardly speak to, mentioned that I looked good. She said "you never notice with some people, but it really makes you look good". I assumed she meant my weight loss, thanked her and walked off quite chuffed.
I'd better be off to bed, need my sleep for tomorrow.
Thursday 26 July 2007
Day Seventy Nine...
I got a great night's sleep last night and slept right through until about 8.15am without waking up at all. The forecast was for heavy rain so I didn't cycle, instead I headed for the tube. I haven't topped up my Oyster Card for about a month and I realised I still had over £20 on it. All this cycling and walking is really making a difference to my wallet.
Work was hectic as usual, but it's filling with excitement as the launch of our new service gets closer. It's something that in time lots of folk in the UK will use, but at the moment it will be restricted to about 250,000 users for the next few weeks. After that we expect millions of users, and in a few years for it to overtake TV (heh, wishful thinking).
After work the missus and I headed to the opera. Well, kind of. A friend of ours is a professional opera singer. She and some colleagues have a new show which we watched last night. It's a mix of opera, comedy and transvestism all rolled into one. It was great.
So, I'm just back in the door and downing a shake before bed. I've been back drinking loads of water today, but I've only had three packs instead of four. It's just too late to have another or I'll be pissing all night. I seem to average missing 1 to 2 packs a week. This means, after 12 weeks, I have nearly an entire week of food extra. I never deliberately miss a meal, but sometimes I plan badly and end up missing out. Tonight I missed one because I went straight out from work and didn't plan how to get an extra meal in. You do not lose any measurable amount of weight by not taking a pack. You'd have to miss 28 of them to save 1 pound in weight. Instead I miss 25% of my recommended daily amounts of vitamins, minerals and protein so I really need to get my act together and take them.
Work was hectic as usual, but it's filling with excitement as the launch of our new service gets closer. It's something that in time lots of folk in the UK will use, but at the moment it will be restricted to about 250,000 users for the next few weeks. After that we expect millions of users, and in a few years for it to overtake TV (heh, wishful thinking).
After work the missus and I headed to the opera. Well, kind of. A friend of ours is a professional opera singer. She and some colleagues have a new show which we watched last night. It's a mix of opera, comedy and transvestism all rolled into one. It was great.
So, I'm just back in the door and downing a shake before bed. I've been back drinking loads of water today, but I've only had three packs instead of four. It's just too late to have another or I'll be pissing all night. I seem to average missing 1 to 2 packs a week. This means, after 12 weeks, I have nearly an entire week of food extra. I never deliberately miss a meal, but sometimes I plan badly and end up missing out. Tonight I missed one because I went straight out from work and didn't plan how to get an extra meal in. You do not lose any measurable amount of weight by not taking a pack. You'd have to miss 28 of them to save 1 pound in weight. Instead I miss 25% of my recommended daily amounts of vitamins, minerals and protein so I really need to get my act together and take them.
Wednesday 25 July 2007
Day Seventy Eight...
Stayed in bed until lunch time due to the fact I worked the previous night. I then just logged into my work email and cleared a large backlog. I found a place online that was playing the Tour de France live so I managed to watch it. Unfortunately it was in Dutch, but I didn't mind as I could still follow the action.
Later on I popped of to PC World to have a browse. I was after some more hard disks as my storage is running out. Unfortunately they're not very competitive and I'll just order online. While I drove to PC World I noticed a damp patch in the car. This was caused by a gallon of screen wash leaking over the floor in the back. This is a bit of a disaster as the car is more or less brand new.
So, I haven't really done much today, but I still feel tired. There is going to be a long couple for days ahead, so I'm going off in a few minutes to watch a movie in bed and get some kip. I also need to drink a stack of water, I've been very bad today in that respect.
Later on I popped of to PC World to have a browse. I was after some more hard disks as my storage is running out. Unfortunately they're not very competitive and I'll just order online. While I drove to PC World I noticed a damp patch in the car. This was caused by a gallon of screen wash leaking over the floor in the back. This is a bit of a disaster as the car is more or less brand new.
So, I haven't really done much today, but I still feel tired. There is going to be a long couple for days ahead, so I'm going off in a few minutes to watch a movie in bed and get some kip. I also need to drink a stack of water, I've been very bad today in that respect.
Day Seventy Seven... weigh in
At last. A day with some decent weather.
I got on the bike and really hammered into work today. After not having been on the bike for a few days my legs seemed very fresh and I really zipped along on my way in. It took about 17 minutes to cycle in and at some point in the journey was travelling at just under 30 miles an hour. My GPS allows me to map my route and compare journeys day to day, so it ill be interesting to see how this works out for the weeks ahead. Unfortunately the waether looks bad for the coming days, so my bike may not see a lot of action this week.
I'm working through the night testing this application again. However, this should be the last time before we launch to the public. Normally I like to get a few hours kip before I start, but this time I had my weigh in so that scuppered that idea.
My weigh in was a little disappointing this week again. I lost 3lbs, my lowest yet, for a total of 69lbs. Of course, I am delighted with 69lbs, but I really expected to puch past 70lbs this week for a total of 5 stones. However, it wasn't to be, but I'll definitely do it next week.
I got on the bike and really hammered into work today. After not having been on the bike for a few days my legs seemed very fresh and I really zipped along on my way in. It took about 17 minutes to cycle in and at some point in the journey was travelling at just under 30 miles an hour. My GPS allows me to map my route and compare journeys day to day, so it ill be interesting to see how this works out for the weeks ahead. Unfortunately the waether looks bad for the coming days, so my bike may not see a lot of action this week.
I'm working through the night testing this application again. However, this should be the last time before we launch to the public. Normally I like to get a few hours kip before I start, but this time I had my weigh in so that scuppered that idea.
My weigh in was a little disappointing this week again. I lost 3lbs, my lowest yet, for a total of 69lbs. Of course, I am delighted with 69lbs, but I really expected to puch past 70lbs this week for a total of 5 stones. However, it wasn't to be, but I'll definitely do it next week.
Day Seventy Six...
Back to work.
It was, as I expected another busy day. It got off to a bad start with the weather, it was just too wet to cycle so I had to get the tube. Things brightened up when I got ready to leave and found that my jacket is now too big for me. Since I had no other option I went to work wearing what looked like a big tent.
My team has been expanding a lot recently, so today we moved areas within the office. We moved down a floor and into a much bigger space. Unfortunately we left behind a very nice part of the building to something a bit larger and nosier. It all went fine, except for the fact none of us now have telephones. Apparently they forgot to fit them over the weekend. This is a huge pain in the backside. We now have an operations team that cannot be contacted.
I went bowling after work. My local place does a deal where you can play all night for a tenner. My friend and I popped long and played half a dozen games. It was good fun. I haven't done enough stuff with my mates recently and it was quite refreshing to go out and have fun. I was also pretty difficult. They have a McDonald's in there and I was sorely tempted by a burger and some chicken nuggets. I know it's terribly uncool to say you like McDonald's, but trust me, I'd have enjoyed one last night.
It was, as I expected another busy day. It got off to a bad start with the weather, it was just too wet to cycle so I had to get the tube. Things brightened up when I got ready to leave and found that my jacket is now too big for me. Since I had no other option I went to work wearing what looked like a big tent.
My team has been expanding a lot recently, so today we moved areas within the office. We moved down a floor and into a much bigger space. Unfortunately we left behind a very nice part of the building to something a bit larger and nosier. It all went fine, except for the fact none of us now have telephones. Apparently they forgot to fit them over the weekend. This is a huge pain in the backside. We now have an operations team that cannot be contacted.
I went bowling after work. My local place does a deal where you can play all night for a tenner. My friend and I popped long and played half a dozen games. It was good fun. I haven't done enough stuff with my mates recently and it was quite refreshing to go out and have fun. I was also pretty difficult. They have a McDonald's in there and I was sorely tempted by a burger and some chicken nuggets. I know it's terribly uncool to say you like McDonald's, but trust me, I'd have enjoyed one last night.
Day Seventy Five...
Much the same as Saturday...
I didn't do much except watch sport on TV. There was a fantastically exciting Formula 1 race, which is not something that happens too often and a day in the mountains in the Tour de France. This makes compulsive viewing for me.
i had a bit of work to do chasing up the problems I had on Friday at work which should hopefully leave me a bit less busy on Monday.
I also had a look at trying to book a day off this week to go fishing, but unfortunately with my calendar the way it is there is no way I can squeeze a day off. To be honest, the weather is so bad, I expect the rivers all to be unfishable, but as they say, a bad day fishing is always better than a goof day at work.
I've also got an invitation to the launch celebrations of our new product. It's a champagne reception on Friday at 0900. Who's idea was that? We're launching the biggest web product in out company's history that's taken four years to make and the party is at nine o'clock in the morning. Hilarious.
I didn't do much except watch sport on TV. There was a fantastically exciting Formula 1 race, which is not something that happens too often and a day in the mountains in the Tour de France. This makes compulsive viewing for me.
i had a bit of work to do chasing up the problems I had on Friday at work which should hopefully leave me a bit less busy on Monday.
I also had a look at trying to book a day off this week to go fishing, but unfortunately with my calendar the way it is there is no way I can squeeze a day off. To be honest, the weather is so bad, I expect the rivers all to be unfishable, but as they say, a bad day fishing is always better than a goof day at work.
I've also got an invitation to the launch celebrations of our new product. It's a champagne reception on Friday at 0900. Who's idea was that? We're launching the biggest web product in out company's history that's taken four years to make and the party is at nine o'clock in the morning. Hilarious.
Day Seventy Four...
After a busy day on Friday I just wanted to kick back and relax on Saturday and that's exactly what I did. I stayed in and caught up with a few things and watched the Tour de France. On Saturday it was the time trial and I watched it expecting the leader to lose his winning margin and fall back. Instead he managed to ride the cycle of his life and hold on. The winner, Alexander Vinokourov, also seemed to put int he performance of a lifetime and win by a huge margin. This will has since been overshadowed by revelations that he had a blood transfusion just before the race to boost his oxygen levels.
In the evening the missus and I went to the Ealing Blues Festival. This is an annual event in Ealing. There is a big marquee and beer tent and blues bands playing all day. For £1 entry the value is unbeatable. It was a great night. Afterwards our group headed to the pub. This was my first time in an English pub since the ban and the difference was noticeable. The bar seemed to smell of hairspray. I definitely reminded me of a hairdressers. I still feel a bit strange going out to pubs and not drinking, so when people decided to move on to a late night place, I made my excuses and headed home to bed.
In the evening the missus and I went to the Ealing Blues Festival. This is an annual event in Ealing. There is a big marquee and beer tent and blues bands playing all day. For £1 entry the value is unbeatable. It was a great night. Afterwards our group headed to the pub. This was my first time in an English pub since the ban and the difference was noticeable. The bar seemed to smell of hairspray. I definitely reminded me of a hairdressers. I still feel a bit strange going out to pubs and not drinking, so when people decided to move on to a late night place, I made my excuses and headed home to bed.
Day Seventy Three...
I was called first thing in the morning by one of our technology suppliers in Maidenhead to tell em the area was completely flooded and he didn't think it was possible that all the engineers would make it in today. Also there had been a power outage which wasn't protected by the UPS (uninterruptable power supply) and we'd lost a whole load of network and servers.
So my day was very busy as I played the middleman between all of our website executives and the suppliers. It was a bit of a nightmare. However, as a result of this, the night work has been postponned until next week. It's funny, although I called it a nightmare, these are the days I love. Operations folk have a hero mentality, and when the shit hits the fan, work really gets fun.
It seemed that is was the South's time to get wet with this round of flooding. The weather kept me off my bike, but if that's my only inconvenience then I'm happy.
So my day was very busy as I played the middleman between all of our website executives and the suppliers. It was a bit of a nightmare. However, as a result of this, the night work has been postponned until next week. It's funny, although I called it a nightmare, these are the days I love. Operations folk have a hero mentality, and when the shit hits the fan, work really gets fun.
It seemed that is was the South's time to get wet with this round of flooding. The weather kept me off my bike, but if that's my only inconvenience then I'm happy.
Day Seventy Two...
Been too busy recently to be checking into blog land so I have a bit of catching up to do. I've been putting in a lot of hours and effort recently and the last thing I want to do is sit in front of my computer when I get back. I working through the night again tonight and feeling guilty about the fact I haven't posted much recently.
Thursday was a fairly straight forward day at work, I cycled as seems to be the norm now. My new GPS bike computer was delivered to work and I installed it before cycling home. I haven't managed to get the heart rate monitor part working, but the rest of it is great. My cycling seemed to get a little harder towards the end of the week as I got more tired, however my legs are holding up well.
I've just been asked to work through the night tomorrow (Friday) so I'm not to pleased, but it will pay for the GPS.
Thursday was a fairly straight forward day at work, I cycled as seems to be the norm now. My new GPS bike computer was delivered to work and I installed it before cycling home. I haven't managed to get the heart rate monitor part working, but the rest of it is great. My cycling seemed to get a little harder towards the end of the week as I got more tired, however my legs are holding up well.
I've just been asked to work through the night tomorrow (Friday) so I'm not to pleased, but it will pay for the GPS.
Thursday 19 July 2007
Day Seventy One...
Today was a bit strange. I felt spaced out all day. I have a light feeling in my head. I haven't felt dizzy or sick, but I do feel a little tired.
I went to bed early last night, watched a movie and fell asleep. However, after saying I am sleeping a lot in a previous post, I woke up at 0430 when some friendly Liberal Democrat stuck their leaflet through my door. There is a bi-election here today. I haven't been able to get to sleep since.
It was another busy day at work, with a good fast cycle home. I'm wondering if my spaced out feeling is coming from the fact I am pushing my body on such limited calories. Does anyone else get a similar feeling whilst exercising?
In answer to the comment about the men's Lighter Life programme: Men do 8 weeks of abstinence at a time and are expected to lose the same weight as the 14 week female course. From the literature it's broadly the same as the female group. The largest the group has been for me is 4. It looks like we'll be together for a while as we're all doing well. There have been others come and go, but there isn't really enough men to formalise the start and finish times of each course, so we're happy to see new starers. Now that this group has been together for a few weeks there's a bit more of a group feeling forming and we're getting to know each other a lot better.
I went to bed early last night, watched a movie and fell asleep. However, after saying I am sleeping a lot in a previous post, I woke up at 0430 when some friendly Liberal Democrat stuck their leaflet through my door. There is a bi-election here today. I haven't been able to get to sleep since.
It was another busy day at work, with a good fast cycle home. I'm wondering if my spaced out feeling is coming from the fact I am pushing my body on such limited calories. Does anyone else get a similar feeling whilst exercising?
In answer to the comment about the men's Lighter Life programme: Men do 8 weeks of abstinence at a time and are expected to lose the same weight as the 14 week female course. From the literature it's broadly the same as the female group. The largest the group has been for me is 4. It looks like we'll be together for a while as we're all doing well. There have been others come and go, but there isn't really enough men to formalise the start and finish times of each course, so we're happy to see new starers. Now that this group has been together for a few weeks there's a bit more of a group feeling forming and we're getting to know each other a lot better.
Tuesday 17 July 2007
Day Seventy... weigh in
Today I completed my tenth week on Lighterlife. It's been a journey of highs and lows. The first couple of weeks were hell as I couldn't get food out of my mind. This settled down into optimism and then onto bored routine. Only occasionally when changing my routine, like going on holiday, does it get tough again. Everything else seems fine. I have plenty motivation for carrying on. My new kayak which I will buy as a present, a new healthy me, getting fit on the bike, all the compliments I'm getting at work. It all seems to be going good.
I've heard a lot of people say that the middle of the diet gets dull and people think more of cheating once the huge weight loss becomes less novel. I've not had that at all, but I think I built up the defence mechanisms to cope with it. Also, this is the time that people have started to notice, so that provides me with all the encouragement I need. However, as I've said before the end of my journey to lose the weight is still a long way off and that's when the hard work starts.
I was a few minutes late for my session as I forgot I had to go to the bank to pick up some cash to pay my counsellor. I normally always have cash, but these days I simply never visit a bank. I cycle or walk everywhere and never eat out. I might stop carrying my wallet around with me.
I knew my weight loss would not be to great this week as I've been monitoring my progress closer as I up the miles I am doing on the bike. I lost 4lbs which now gives me a total of 66lbs lost in 70 days. 4lbs is a good bit lower than my average, but with all the exercise I'm doing I am hoping this is because I've been putting on muscle.
I've heard a lot of people say that the middle of the diet gets dull and people think more of cheating once the huge weight loss becomes less novel. I've not had that at all, but I think I built up the defence mechanisms to cope with it. Also, this is the time that people have started to notice, so that provides me with all the encouragement I need. However, as I've said before the end of my journey to lose the weight is still a long way off and that's when the hard work starts.
I was a few minutes late for my session as I forgot I had to go to the bank to pick up some cash to pay my counsellor. I normally always have cash, but these days I simply never visit a bank. I cycle or walk everywhere and never eat out. I might stop carrying my wallet around with me.
I knew my weight loss would not be to great this week as I've been monitoring my progress closer as I up the miles I am doing on the bike. I lost 4lbs which now gives me a total of 66lbs lost in 70 days. 4lbs is a good bit lower than my average, but with all the exercise I'm doing I am hoping this is because I've been putting on muscle.
Monday 16 July 2007
Three Things
There are three things I've noticed recently with being on Lighterlife. These are additional to the physical changes...
1. I am colder. This is weird. I am never cold. From February to November I sleep with the window open and no covers while the missus wraps herself up into a cocoon. Hot summers are hell for me and I can never sleep on the clammy nights. At the moment however, I fight for the covers and my fingers are always chilly like I have bad circulation. These things are apparently a normal side effect of ketosis as you're body shuts down stuff it doesn't need. This include warming up your extremities.
2. I sleep a lot more. I only ever used to sleep seven to seven and a half hours a night maximum. I've never had sleeping problems, but have never been one for lying in. I am never in bed after 0830. This is until now. I can go to bed and sleep for nine or ten hours at the weekend and still feel like dozing off. This again feels a bit weird.
2. My shit is too wide. Regardless of how much water I drink going to the loo hurts. I am still regular, but it is a slow and uncomfortable process. I've heard of others on Lighterlife with the same problem and apparently it's another well known side effect of Low Calorie Diets.
1. I am colder. This is weird. I am never cold. From February to November I sleep with the window open and no covers while the missus wraps herself up into a cocoon. Hot summers are hell for me and I can never sleep on the clammy nights. At the moment however, I fight for the covers and my fingers are always chilly like I have bad circulation. These things are apparently a normal side effect of ketosis as you're body shuts down stuff it doesn't need. This include warming up your extremities.
2. I sleep a lot more. I only ever used to sleep seven to seven and a half hours a night maximum. I've never had sleeping problems, but have never been one for lying in. I am never in bed after 0830. This is until now. I can go to bed and sleep for nine or ten hours at the weekend and still feel like dozing off. This again feels a bit weird.
2. My shit is too wide. Regardless of how much water I drink going to the loo hurts. I am still regular, but it is a slow and uncomfortable process. I've heard of others on Lighterlife with the same problem and apparently it's another well known side effect of Low Calorie Diets.
Day Sixty Nine...
Back at work...
I have a huge backlog of work that is growing exponentially and seems never to stop coming. There is a light at the end of the tunnel in that I have permission to hire 12 or so new staff, but that'll take months to happen, so in the mean time I've just to struggle on.
Work was pretty good today though. Except for the fact I have 30 CVs to review and all the agencies are calling my up for my decision. Argh, I hate them so much. I'm going to have to rip my phone off the wall. I really hate recruitment consultants. However, I got lots more positive comments about my weight loss. It's funny, people ask either if I've been ill or what I'm doing to lose it. I say I've lost over 60lbs and the usual answer is are you stopping now? When I explain that I've around another 100lbs to go they all think I'm lying. I've been told I'll look daft at anything under 18 stones. Heh, we'll see soon enough. My target is somewhere between 13-14 stones.
A good friend told me he saw me setting up a meeting and didn't recognize me until I spoke. We used to have lunch every day together, but now we hardly see each other as we work at different parts of the building. This reminded me of the fact that since I've started the rogramme I've stopped doing things with blokes. Pretty much all my masculine habbits were pub based. In an attempt to get some bloke company in my life I'm off bowling on mondays. They do an all night deal for £10. I've an understanding mate who's dry at the moment, so we've decided to go together.
I have a huge backlog of work that is growing exponentially and seems never to stop coming. There is a light at the end of the tunnel in that I have permission to hire 12 or so new staff, but that'll take months to happen, so in the mean time I've just to struggle on.
Work was pretty good today though. Except for the fact I have 30 CVs to review and all the agencies are calling my up for my decision. Argh, I hate them so much. I'm going to have to rip my phone off the wall. I really hate recruitment consultants. However, I got lots more positive comments about my weight loss. It's funny, people ask either if I've been ill or what I'm doing to lose it. I say I've lost over 60lbs and the usual answer is are you stopping now? When I explain that I've around another 100lbs to go they all think I'm lying. I've been told I'll look daft at anything under 18 stones. Heh, we'll see soon enough. My target is somewhere between 13-14 stones.
A good friend told me he saw me setting up a meeting and didn't recognize me until I spoke. We used to have lunch every day together, but now we hardly see each other as we work at different parts of the building. This reminded me of the fact that since I've started the rogramme I've stopped doing things with blokes. Pretty much all my masculine habbits were pub based. In an attempt to get some bloke company in my life I'm off bowling on mondays. They do an all night deal for £10. I've an understanding mate who's dry at the moment, so we've decided to go together.
Day Sixty Eight...
I spent most of Sunday in the flat sorting stuff out. I had a couple of letters to write, bank things to sort, things to tidy up. I managed to get most of the stuff done and not much else.
I don't really know what happened with the day but it passed in a relaxing lazy haze. I deliberately stayed of the bike to rest my bits which are doing well now. They are a bit tender as I start my cycle, but any discomfort wears off.
I thought about Lesley's post about the tome of my writing changing recently. This hasn't been any concious decision, but may be a result of my definite will to change my lifestyle and not make the mistakes of the past. I've made a few positive steps recently with respect to my continuing fitness and I'm really motivated to see them come to fruition. My weight is falling off me, although the scales are showing little change this week, and I want to make sure I am mentally and phycically ready for the challenge that is maintenance.
I went to bed early at the end of the day and watched the last 2 episodes of 24. Now I've got a huge backlog of films to watch... It;s funny, I watch little or no TV, but I quite like watching stuff on the laptop in bed before sleeping.
I don't really know what happened with the day but it passed in a relaxing lazy haze. I deliberately stayed of the bike to rest my bits which are doing well now. They are a bit tender as I start my cycle, but any discomfort wears off.
I thought about Lesley's post about the tome of my writing changing recently. This hasn't been any concious decision, but may be a result of my definite will to change my lifestyle and not make the mistakes of the past. I've made a few positive steps recently with respect to my continuing fitness and I'm really motivated to see them come to fruition. My weight is falling off me, although the scales are showing little change this week, and I want to make sure I am mentally and phycically ready for the challenge that is maintenance.
I went to bed early at the end of the day and watched the last 2 episodes of 24. Now I've got a huge backlog of films to watch... It;s funny, I watch little or no TV, but I quite like watching stuff on the laptop in bed before sleeping.
Saturday 14 July 2007
Day Sixty Seven...
Finally, the weekend. I'd decided I was going to buy a bike computer with a built in heart rate monitor today. They were on sale at my local bike shop at around £240. Before I purchased it I did a quick google and found I could get it online for about £190, so I decided to order it there instead of getting it today. Then for some reason I tried one of the price comnparison websites and found it at Boots for £109.99 with free delivery and 500 points onto the missus' points card thing. Bargain. I normally take ages deciding what I want, but when I do make the desicion I need it now. But in this case I'm happy to wait a few days.
Here's a link to the Garmin 305 at boots.
I went for a quick 5 mile or so loop around Ealing and Brentford this afternoon on the new bike. When I get the GPS I think I'll use it as a benchmark to see how my performance goes.
I took photos of my old bike after I hosed it down and stuck it on ebay. I've no idea what the value of bikes second hand are, but someone is going to get a bargain. I've a feeling I'll be lucky to get a 1/4 of its real value.
The missus is just back from paintballing with her workmates and I've run a bath to ease her muscles, so I better run off and see how she's doing.
Here's a link to the Garmin 305 at boots.
I went for a quick 5 mile or so loop around Ealing and Brentford this afternoon on the new bike. When I get the GPS I think I'll use it as a benchmark to see how my performance goes.
I took photos of my old bike after I hosed it down and stuck it on ebay. I've no idea what the value of bikes second hand are, but someone is going to get a bargain. I've a feeling I'll be lucky to get a 1/4 of its real value.
The missus is just back from paintballing with her workmates and I've run a bath to ease her muscles, so I better run off and see how she's doing.
Friday 13 July 2007
Day Sixty Six...
I went back to bed after working through the night at about quarter to eight and slep through until about 1230 when I was awoken by the telephone. I leaped out of bed, picked up the phone and listened to a series of beeps. I was pretty annoyed and that was my sleep ruined.
I normally don't remember my dreams, but last night I'd set fire to a haystack, then I realised there were kids playing on it so I tried to rescue them. Unfortunately about 30 were killed. I have no idea what that was about.
I logged into work and went through my email. I've recently been given a stack load of responsibilities at work which means that I need to OK every movement on our departments biggest every project. It's a pain in the arse to be honest.
After I'd sorted what I needed to I got on the bike and headed out for a few miles. I went to the bike shop to get a lock, gloves and a new cycle computer. I got the first two things, but the cycle computer will not fit my bike as I have rather strange suspension on my front wheel. I'll take and post some pictures of my bike over the weekend.
I am having my Thai Chili soup as I read this. At the same time I can smell the missus' salmon and pasta cooking and I am jealous. We never buy farmed fish but Tesco and Waitrose have started to sell Wild Alaskan Salmon. Trust me, although it's a little more expensive the difference is worth it. For those who don't know farmed salmon is an environmental nightmare, and it tastes terrible compared to the real thing. http://www.salmonfarmmonitor.org/ The Alaskan Salmon unfortunately has a load of food miles, but I believe it's a better choice.
Right, I'm off to bed to watch a couple of episodes of 24.
I normally don't remember my dreams, but last night I'd set fire to a haystack, then I realised there were kids playing on it so I tried to rescue them. Unfortunately about 30 were killed. I have no idea what that was about.
I logged into work and went through my email. I've recently been given a stack load of responsibilities at work which means that I need to OK every movement on our departments biggest every project. It's a pain in the arse to be honest.
After I'd sorted what I needed to I got on the bike and headed out for a few miles. I went to the bike shop to get a lock, gloves and a new cycle computer. I got the first two things, but the cycle computer will not fit my bike as I have rather strange suspension on my front wheel. I'll take and post some pictures of my bike over the weekend.
I am having my Thai Chili soup as I read this. At the same time I can smell the missus' salmon and pasta cooking and I am jealous. We never buy farmed fish but Tesco and Waitrose have started to sell Wild Alaskan Salmon. Trust me, although it's a little more expensive the difference is worth it. For those who don't know farmed salmon is an environmental nightmare, and it tastes terrible compared to the real thing. http://www.salmonfarmmonitor.org/ The Alaskan Salmon unfortunately has a load of food miles, but I believe it's a better choice.
Right, I'm off to bed to watch a couple of episodes of 24.
Thursday 12 July 2007
Day Sixty Five...
Had a nice cycle to work this morning. I pushed it as fast as I could and really worked up a sweat. I think I'm going to get a heart rate monitor for the bike. With a heart rate monitor built into a cycle computer you can monitor your progress and fitness levels over time. I think if I am to stay at my target weight I'll need to have a reason to stay there and work at it. Being able to track my fitness and progress should help me keep motivated.
The cycle home was better than previous days. I still found it very easy to run out of energy, but it seemed less tiring.
We had a large project meeting at the end of the day which had drinks and nibbles supplied. When it was over and we were milling around at the end about half a dozen folk asked how I was losing weight. My standard answer it just drinking water, no booze, sweets or crisps and lots of exercise. Those who pry a little more get my second answer that I'm on a programme that has meal replacement shakes, soups and bars.
Most people seem very impressed, and I love the compliments. However, I do feel a bit of a fraud. It's really not that hard, and even if I get to target weight, I'll have acheived very little until I've managed to maintain for a long time.
Anyway, I'll working again tonight, so I'm off to try to get some sleep or relax for a while.
The cycle home was better than previous days. I still found it very easy to run out of energy, but it seemed less tiring.
We had a large project meeting at the end of the day which had drinks and nibbles supplied. When it was over and we were milling around at the end about half a dozen folk asked how I was losing weight. My standard answer it just drinking water, no booze, sweets or crisps and lots of exercise. Those who pry a little more get my second answer that I'm on a programme that has meal replacement shakes, soups and bars.
Most people seem very impressed, and I love the compliments. However, I do feel a bit of a fraud. It's really not that hard, and even if I get to target weight, I'll have acheived very little until I've managed to maintain for a long time.
Anyway, I'll working again tonight, so I'm off to try to get some sleep or relax for a while.
Wednesday 11 July 2007
Day Sixty Four...
I worked through the night and would have normally gone to bed around 0700, unfortunately I had my monthly check in with my GP at 0830 so I had to stay up.
I was knackered when I turned up for my appointment and I thought my doctor might say I looked terrible. Instead, as I walked in the door he said, "you really are losing a lot of weight". We talked about my weight loss, how I was finding it and a little on maintenance. He took my blood pressure and it was still normal. As I left he said, "well done", and thrust out a hand in a congratulatory handshake. I promised to be back in a month and left with a spring in my step.
I then went straight back to bed and slep until about 1.30pm. At this point I got up so I knew I'd sleep tonight and get back to normal. I also had to get into work to talk about a possible merger of departments at work. As I checked in at work the comments about my weight loss kept coming. It's like suddenly everyone has noticed at once that I'm 4.5 stones lighter than I was a couple of months ago.
My meeting lasted a long time and I didn't leave work until around 8pm. I took the tube home for the first time in ages. I only seem to walk or cycle these days. I've just had a shake and made a soup to take to bed. I'm going early with the missus to watch a few episodes of 24 before falling into unconsiousness.
I was knackered when I turned up for my appointment and I thought my doctor might say I looked terrible. Instead, as I walked in the door he said, "you really are losing a lot of weight". We talked about my weight loss, how I was finding it and a little on maintenance. He took my blood pressure and it was still normal. As I left he said, "well done", and thrust out a hand in a congratulatory handshake. I promised to be back in a month and left with a spring in my step.
I then went straight back to bed and slep until about 1.30pm. At this point I got up so I knew I'd sleep tonight and get back to normal. I also had to get into work to talk about a possible merger of departments at work. As I checked in at work the comments about my weight loss kept coming. It's like suddenly everyone has noticed at once that I'm 4.5 stones lighter than I was a couple of months ago.
My meeting lasted a long time and I didn't leave work until around 8pm. I took the tube home for the first time in ages. I only seem to walk or cycle these days. I've just had a shake and made a soup to take to bed. I'm going early with the missus to watch a few episodes of 24 before falling into unconsiousness.
The Isle of Skye
This is a shot of the Cullins from the road to Glenbrittle on Skye.
This is a shot from South Skye over the sea.
This is a shot from South Skye over the sea.
Day Sixty Three... weigh in
Today was the end of my ninth week on Lighterlife. The programme lasts eight weeks for men, but I missed last week's session due to being on holiday. It's all passed very quickly, although my end goal still seems so far away. In terms of time, I am now over one third of the way to completion so I am quite happy to have come this far without deviation.
I'm working late tonight and have my monthly doctors appointment in the morning so I'm not expecting much sleep, however I have the day off and I fully intend to be under the covers for most of it.
Today's showed my weight loss for the last two weeks was 12 pounds. This brings my overall total to 62 pounds.
I was back on the bike to work today and cycled past the missus' work so we could ride home together. It was much the same as yesterday and I sat gingerly on the saddle protecting my sore bits.
I'm working late tonight and have my monthly doctors appointment in the morning so I'm not expecting much sleep, however I have the day off and I fully intend to be under the covers for most of it.
Today's showed my weight loss for the last two weeks was 12 pounds. This brings my overall total to 62 pounds.
I was back on the bike to work today and cycled past the missus' work so we could ride home together. It was much the same as yesterday and I sat gingerly on the saddle protecting my sore bits.
Monday 9 July 2007
Time to add a few photos
This is a Heron taken at 300mm with a Canon F/4L IS Lens. It was near the Estuary of the River Alness on the Cormarty Firth.
Day Sixty Two...
I was a bit disappointed to wake up this morning to find that the forecast was for rain. I really wanted to head off to work on my new bike on a hot sunny day. Instead it was a bit overcast and gloomy.
I knocked back a shake, pumped up my tyres and headed off to work. I really pushed it hard trying to see what the bike would do. I threw ir up and down kerbs and tried a few hops and jumps over drains. The bike performed very well and I got to work very quickly. I was delighted. I parked up in our underground bike park at work, this safe place give me confidence that it will not be stolen.
I popped up to my desk to say hi to my team before heading for a shower. We have nice showers and changing areas in the office which really encourages cycling to work. When I got back to my desk after freshening up I hit the hard reality of the day. Being away for a week plays havoc with my diary. I had 14 meeting requests for today and 1015 emails waiting to be read. Argh.
Apart from that the day as great. I had more comments today about my weight loss than ever before. One guy said, "you're not big Andy anymore" and another took the mickey out a a large friend of mine saying "you're the biggest guy in the office now".
I wore some trousers today that I'd never worn before. I bought them about four years ago, but they were always too tight. They're almost too big now. I have three pair of trousers a size smaller that I last wore in 2000 and I am looking forward to getting into them. My belt which I wore at the largest setting since I bought it in Chicago in 2004 is now too large and will need another hole in it.
At the end of the day a thunder storm passed close to work and I was a bit edgy about cycling home in the pissing rain, but I managed to dodge it. However, the cycle was really hard. I had no energy whatsoever. I did this cycle regularly at a weight 50lbs higher than I am now, but I've never struggled like I did tonight. I guess that I need to have a bar or a food pack before leaving to give my blood sugar a bit of a boost. I didn't feel out of breath, but my legs wouldn't respond to my commands.
The other thing about not being on a bike for a while is the "sore bits". My sore bits are gently throbbing away on my chair as I write this post. The soft tissue always takes a while to toughen up, so I'll just have to ride it out. In a week or two it'll all be fine.
I knocked back a shake, pumped up my tyres and headed off to work. I really pushed it hard trying to see what the bike would do. I threw ir up and down kerbs and tried a few hops and jumps over drains. The bike performed very well and I got to work very quickly. I was delighted. I parked up in our underground bike park at work, this safe place give me confidence that it will not be stolen.
I popped up to my desk to say hi to my team before heading for a shower. We have nice showers and changing areas in the office which really encourages cycling to work. When I got back to my desk after freshening up I hit the hard reality of the day. Being away for a week plays havoc with my diary. I had 14 meeting requests for today and 1015 emails waiting to be read. Argh.
Apart from that the day as great. I had more comments today about my weight loss than ever before. One guy said, "you're not big Andy anymore" and another took the mickey out a a large friend of mine saying "you're the biggest guy in the office now".
I wore some trousers today that I'd never worn before. I bought them about four years ago, but they were always too tight. They're almost too big now. I have three pair of trousers a size smaller that I last wore in 2000 and I am looking forward to getting into them. My belt which I wore at the largest setting since I bought it in Chicago in 2004 is now too large and will need another hole in it.
At the end of the day a thunder storm passed close to work and I was a bit edgy about cycling home in the pissing rain, but I managed to dodge it. However, the cycle was really hard. I had no energy whatsoever. I did this cycle regularly at a weight 50lbs higher than I am now, but I've never struggled like I did tonight. I guess that I need to have a bar or a food pack before leaving to give my blood sugar a bit of a boost. I didn't feel out of breath, but my legs wouldn't respond to my commands.
The other thing about not being on a bike for a while is the "sore bits". My sore bits are gently throbbing away on my chair as I write this post. The soft tissue always takes a while to toughen up, so I'll just have to ride it out. In a week or two it'll all be fine.
Day Sixty One...
Oops. I did a bad thing.
We left the hotel in the morning and were heading for the motorway when the missus asked me if I fancied the bike. I said I'd love it, but thought she'd go mental if I bought it. She said to go for it as long as I promised to use it.
This was the last straw and I spun the car around, entered the shop and got the guy to wrap it up. I then fitted the rack and placed the bike on it. I smiled all the way to London as I looked int he rear view mirror and saw it there. I'm really looking forward to getting on it this week.
The rest of the journey was dull and we got back to London around 9pm. After unloading the car I took the bike in the house and gave it the once over to make sure it was in good health. Then I booted the computer to catch up with the blog.
I'm sure I've missed some things from the last few days, but I'll add more information when I remember. I'll also try to remember to add some pictures.
We left the hotel in the morning and were heading for the motorway when the missus asked me if I fancied the bike. I said I'd love it, but thought she'd go mental if I bought it. She said to go for it as long as I promised to use it.
This was the last straw and I spun the car around, entered the shop and got the guy to wrap it up. I then fitted the rack and placed the bike on it. I smiled all the way to London as I looked int he rear view mirror and saw it there. I'm really looking forward to getting on it this week.
The rest of the journey was dull and we got back to London around 9pm. After unloading the car I took the bike in the house and gave it the once over to make sure it was in good health. Then I booted the computer to catch up with the blog.
I'm sure I've missed some things from the last few days, but I'll add more information when I remember. I'll also try to remember to add some pictures.
Sunday 8 July 2007
Day Sixty...
My bother and his partner arrived at the hotel first thing in the morning in advance of my cousins wedding. I haven't seen him since I started Lighterlife and the first thing he said was that I looked amazing. The funny thing is that today I actually feel that I look good. I got a haircut yesterday and had my first shave in a couple of weeks this morning. I stared back at myself in the mirror andlooked about five years younger than I did last week. The diference is now starting to show.
I put on a pair of jeans in the morning and had to take them off again. They are far too big. When I belt them up the sag all around the belt and are unwearable. Woopee.
I put on a different pair of trousers and headed out with my brother. On the way to out he dropped the news that his missus was pregnant! He's already got one three year old son and now he's going to supply him a brother or sister.
We drove down to the bike shop. He also is a mountain bike fan and I wanted to show him the place. When he saw the bike that I lusted after he demanded I bought it. I told him not to be so daft. I have no way of getting it to London as I have no bike rack. The shopkeeper said he'd throw in a free bike rack. Argh! He also said he'd swap the pedals to my preference and chuck in an air pump for the shock absorbers. I nearly cracked, but did the right thing and headed back to change for the wedding.
I got dressed up in full highland gear for the wedding and drove my mother and the missus tot he church. The service was nice and quick and we were soon heading out to the country for the reception. I hung around for the speeches, but when the meal arrived I disappeared off for a shake and a drive around the area. I got a text from the missus signalling the end of the meal and I returned for the dancing. There is a great tradition of having a Highland Dance band at every wedding and this was no exception. I had a great night dancing all the old traditional favourites and was thoroughly knackered by the end of the night.
By the end of the night I was tired enough to feel pretty dizzy. I felt like I'd pushed it a bit too hard. Lighterlife do say not to do too much strenuous exercise and I think several hours of country dancing is probably too much. By the time I got home I was ready to drop and I slept like a baby all night.
I put on a pair of jeans in the morning and had to take them off again. They are far too big. When I belt them up the sag all around the belt and are unwearable. Woopee.
I put on a different pair of trousers and headed out with my brother. On the way to out he dropped the news that his missus was pregnant! He's already got one three year old son and now he's going to supply him a brother or sister.
We drove down to the bike shop. He also is a mountain bike fan and I wanted to show him the place. When he saw the bike that I lusted after he demanded I bought it. I told him not to be so daft. I have no way of getting it to London as I have no bike rack. The shopkeeper said he'd throw in a free bike rack. Argh! He also said he'd swap the pedals to my preference and chuck in an air pump for the shock absorbers. I nearly cracked, but did the right thing and headed back to change for the wedding.
I got dressed up in full highland gear for the wedding and drove my mother and the missus tot he church. The service was nice and quick and we were soon heading out to the country for the reception. I hung around for the speeches, but when the meal arrived I disappeared off for a shake and a drive around the area. I got a text from the missus signalling the end of the meal and I returned for the dancing. There is a great tradition of having a Highland Dance band at every wedding and this was no exception. I had a great night dancing all the old traditional favourites and was thoroughly knackered by the end of the night.
By the end of the night I was tired enough to feel pretty dizzy. I felt like I'd pushed it a bit too hard. Lighterlife do say not to do too much strenuous exercise and I think several hours of country dancing is probably too much. By the time I got home I was ready to drop and I slept like a baby all night.
Day Fifty Nine...
The kilt was ready as promised on Friday morning and we promptly headed down the A9 to Glasgow. I found a city centre parking space and proceeded to show the missus round the place.
I went to University in Glasgow, but haven't been back for ages, so I really enjoyed showing her round my old stomping grounds. We wandered around town before heading out West. I wanted to see a Kayak shop I remembered, but unfortunately it was no longer there. Instead we went into a cycle shop to see if we could find anything that caught the missus' eye. She's after a few accessories for her new bike.
As she looked at speedometers I saw a new mountain bike that was amazing. I have a very expensive mountain bike on which I've done many many miles but recently it's fallen into disrepair and I've hardly been on it. Anyway, it was love at first sight and I nearly bought it. I didn't, as spending £1500 on a bike on an impulse buy is stupid.
We then wandered past Glasgow University and on to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery. This is a stunning building which houses some great art, the most famous of Dali's Crucifixion. It also has a great collection of Charles Rennie MacKintosh designs. Anyone who's spent time in Glasgow will be very familiar with his work and the Glasgow 'style'.
When we's walked until out feet was killing us we headed to the hotel. My mother, aunts, uncles and cousins were meeting us there for dinner. I had made it clear that I wasn't eating, but I still turned up and watched as the devoured steaks, pasta, fish and chips. It was tough, but not as hard as I though it was.
A couple of family members congratulated me on my weight loss which was encouraging. When everyone started drinking afterwards I felt a bit uncomfortable so said my goodbyes and headed for bed.
I went to University in Glasgow, but haven't been back for ages, so I really enjoyed showing her round my old stomping grounds. We wandered around town before heading out West. I wanted to see a Kayak shop I remembered, but unfortunately it was no longer there. Instead we went into a cycle shop to see if we could find anything that caught the missus' eye. She's after a few accessories for her new bike.
As she looked at speedometers I saw a new mountain bike that was amazing. I have a very expensive mountain bike on which I've done many many miles but recently it's fallen into disrepair and I've hardly been on it. Anyway, it was love at first sight and I nearly bought it. I didn't, as spending £1500 on a bike on an impulse buy is stupid.
We then wandered past Glasgow University and on to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery. This is a stunning building which houses some great art, the most famous of Dali's Crucifixion. It also has a great collection of Charles Rennie MacKintosh designs. Anyone who's spent time in Glasgow will be very familiar with his work and the Glasgow 'style'.
When we's walked until out feet was killing us we headed to the hotel. My mother, aunts, uncles and cousins were meeting us there for dinner. I had made it clear that I wasn't eating, but I still turned up and watched as the devoured steaks, pasta, fish and chips. It was tough, but not as hard as I though it was.
A couple of family members congratulated me on my weight loss which was encouraging. When everyone started drinking afterwards I felt a bit uncomfortable so said my goodbyes and headed for bed.
Day Fifty Eight...
This was an Early start as I was heading back to Inverness to pick up my kilt. I forgot to mention earlier that I had 5 inches taken off the waist to get it to fit. That's a hell of a lot.
Before I left though I had to move my Dad out of his room and into another bedroom and empty his is preparation of the carpet fitters. This took a couple of hours and was great fun as we went through a lot of my Dad's old stuff. He never throws anything away, so has a treasure trove of old crap.
After we said our goodbyes we headed east to Inverness. The drive from Skye to Inverness is gorgeous. We passed castles, lochs (including Loch Ness), saw buzzards and an eagle and even a seal.
Unfortunately the kilt wasn't ready, but I was promised that I'd get it at 0900 the next morning. We want to spend tomorrow in Glasgow, so we need to pick it up early and get there in enough time to see the place. The wedding is in the West end of Glasgow on Saturday so we've a hotel booked for Friday and Saturday nights.
Before I left though I had to move my Dad out of his room and into another bedroom and empty his is preparation of the carpet fitters. This took a couple of hours and was great fun as we went through a lot of my Dad's old stuff. He never throws anything away, so has a treasure trove of old crap.
After we said our goodbyes we headed east to Inverness. The drive from Skye to Inverness is gorgeous. We passed castles, lochs (including Loch Ness), saw buzzards and an eagle and even a seal.
Unfortunately the kilt wasn't ready, but I was promised that I'd get it at 0900 the next morning. We want to spend tomorrow in Glasgow, so we need to pick it up early and get there in enough time to see the place. The wedding is in the West end of Glasgow on Saturday so we've a hotel booked for Friday and Saturday nights.
Day Fifty Seven...
This was the day of cleaning. Parts of the outside walls of the house at the rear had some algae growing on it. This is normal on that part of the house as it's shetered from the sun and wind. As well as that the concrete part of the back garden had been left for too long and it had accumulated mud and plants.
After a few hours with a deck scrubber, bleach and a hose the concrete was reclaimed the the growth on the house bannished. I then cleared out the kitchen and scrubbed the floor to make way for the lino coming next week.
After pretty much the whole day spent cleaning, scrubbing and moving furniture we went for a walk to the fairy pools in Glenbrittle. This is a nice hike in a magical setting. I post pictures later when I have time to get them off the camera.
After a few hours with a deck scrubber, bleach and a hose the concrete was reclaimed the the growth on the house bannished. I then cleared out the kitchen and scrubbed the floor to make way for the lino coming next week.
After pretty much the whole day spent cleaning, scrubbing and moving furniture we went for a walk to the fairy pools in Glenbrittle. This is a nice hike in a magical setting. I post pictures later when I have time to get them off the camera.
Day Fifty Six...
First thing in the morning I made bacon sandwiches for Dad and the missus. This was a lot easier than I thought it would be. Although I still miss food, I did this after I had my morning foodpack and it was quite easy.
After we'd fed in the morning we headed of to Portree to check out the flooring options and to get my dad to try a few beds out for size. The bed was easy, he wanted the divan bed which he thought was the most comfortable. However, the flooring was harder to decide on. I originally wanted to get wooden flooring, but the shop assistan said if my Dad was unsteady on his feet this would be a bad idea as it's slippy and hard. My Dad has a history of high blood pressure and has dizzy spells and occaissionally has collapsed so we took her advice and went for carpet.
They had a nutty brown carpet on special, so I went for that for his bedroom and the lounge with some stone effect lino for for the kitchen. The total price including the bed, fitting and delivery was under £1000 so I was quite pleased.
At night I made mince and tatties for my Dad and the missus. It's my Dad's favourite and she's never had it before. I didn't have a problem doing it at all. I'm getting used to cooking and not eating.
I then popped off to see a neighbour who looks in on my old man to see how things have been. I spent a couple of hours before going back to the house where the missus told me she'd walked down to the pier with my Dad and watched some otters playing in the bay. I was very jealous as I've never seen the otters there. I'll have to try to see them later.
Nights are weird. When I'm on Skye I spend almost every night in the pub. It's odd trying to think up things to do. Lots of card games seems to be the trick.
After we'd fed in the morning we headed of to Portree to check out the flooring options and to get my dad to try a few beds out for size. The bed was easy, he wanted the divan bed which he thought was the most comfortable. However, the flooring was harder to decide on. I originally wanted to get wooden flooring, but the shop assistan said if my Dad was unsteady on his feet this would be a bad idea as it's slippy and hard. My Dad has a history of high blood pressure and has dizzy spells and occaissionally has collapsed so we took her advice and went for carpet.
They had a nutty brown carpet on special, so I went for that for his bedroom and the lounge with some stone effect lino for for the kitchen. The total price including the bed, fitting and delivery was under £1000 so I was quite pleased.
At night I made mince and tatties for my Dad and the missus. It's my Dad's favourite and she's never had it before. I didn't have a problem doing it at all. I'm getting used to cooking and not eating.
I then popped off to see a neighbour who looks in on my old man to see how things have been. I spent a couple of hours before going back to the house where the missus told me she'd walked down to the pier with my Dad and watched some otters playing in the bay. I was very jealous as I've never seen the otters there. I'll have to try to see them later.
Nights are weird. When I'm on Skye I spend almost every night in the pub. It's odd trying to think up things to do. Lots of card games seems to be the trick.
Day Fifty Five...
After another lazy morning at my mother's we headed off to the Isle of Skye to see my dad. We arrived in late afternoon and did a bit of shopping in Portree so the missus and my dad had food for the week. My dad never has food in and usually eats in the pub. If you don't bring food, you don't get fed. This is the exact opposite of my childhood when we'd always have lots of fruit and vegetables and well and fresh fish and meat.
He's not been well for a while and hasn't been able to look after the house so we did a lot of work. We were there to sort out the flooring in the house and get a new bed for him. We had a quick look in the flooring shop in Portree and priced a few things up in the hope that my dad would be happy with some of the options.
For the rest of the night we played cribbage before heading to bed relatively early.
He's not been well for a while and hasn't been able to look after the house so we did a lot of work. We were there to sort out the flooring in the house and get a new bed for him. We had a quick look in the flooring shop in Portree and priced a few things up in the hope that my dad would be happy with some of the options.
For the rest of the night we played cribbage before heading to bed relatively early.
Day Fifty Four...
I went off to Inverness to do a bit of shopping. I needed to get a belt for my kilt so it stays up on my rapidly shrinking waist. I went to the kiltmakers but found they'd tkae it in for me for £15 rather than spend £50 on a belt and buckle. They said I could pick it up before the weekend.
For the rest of the day I mostly followed herself while she perused the shops. I was very good, going ooh and ahh in all the right places. She was a little unsure about which dress to wear at the wedding so she got a new one.
On the was home we stopped off and went for a walk along the River Alness and the Cromarty Firth. I saw a couple of Herons and I took a couple of pictures which I'll post later.
I struggled to keep my mind of food again. Yesterday on the drive up I fancied a burger and today I am missing food again.
For the rest of the day I mostly followed herself while she perused the shops. I was very good, going ooh and ahh in all the right places. She was a little unsure about which dress to wear at the wedding so she got a new one.
On the was home we stopped off and went for a walk along the River Alness and the Cromarty Firth. I saw a couple of Herons and I took a couple of pictures which I'll post later.
I struggled to keep my mind of food again. Yesterday on the drive up I fancied a burger and today I am missing food again.
Day Fifty Three...
We got home from the pub last night and we also had a couple of folks sleeping over last night so we were quite late getting up. Normally I like to leave for Scotland very early in the morning, but this time we left about 1230.
The drive up to the Highlands was very fast. We were heading to my mother's 22 miles North of Inverness. The roads were clear and we were never held up in any queues. The journey was easy, but my first trip to a service station was a bit nasty. The smell of Burger King and KFC was very hard to take. We always stopped for one of these meals on the way up and down, but not this time. I had taken a bar in to eat whilst the other half had something, but I had to just make my excuses and leave. The missus is very understanding and just finished her food and met me back in the car.
We finally got home around 10pm. My mother commented again and again about how much weight I'd lost. I did the same back as she's also a lot lighter.
Soon after getting there I went off to bed and slept like a baby until the morning.
The drive up to the Highlands was very fast. We were heading to my mother's 22 miles North of Inverness. The roads were clear and we were never held up in any queues. The journey was easy, but my first trip to a service station was a bit nasty. The smell of Burger King and KFC was very hard to take. We always stopped for one of these meals on the way up and down, but not this time. I had taken a bar in to eat whilst the other half had something, but I had to just make my excuses and leave. The missus is very understanding and just finished her food and met me back in the car.
We finally got home around 10pm. My mother commented again and again about how much weight I'd lost. I did the same back as she's also a lot lighter.
Soon after getting there I went off to bed and slept like a baby until the morning.
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