Random Musings #6

Good day to everyone. How's things with all my peeps? (Do people actually say "peeps" anymore?) I hope everyone had a lovely week and continue to survive this oppressive heat that's sweeping the nation. (Although, I bet the heat doesn't bother most of us as much as it used to.) You know, I've mentioned before in these musings posts that I pride myself on keeping an overall positive outlook... and I think that, for the most part, I tend to do a pretty decent job of it. So, having said that, let me apologize in advance for a couple of rants that are sure to rear their heads sometime during this post. (I'll try very hard not to have this become a habit) ? Let me start with... red wine. Ah yes, I have sorely missed red wine. So, I have decided to re-introduce this nectar... this gift from Bacchus... (Okay, enough of that, A.J.) back into my life. And, of course, I have done my research. I'm sure we've all heard of the health benefits of red wine as well as the so called "French Paradox". You mean to tell me that I can have a nice glass of Cabernet Sauvignon every so often and possibly reduce my risk of coronary heart disease, reduce the production of unhealthy cholesterol, boost healthy cholesterol, reduce blood clotting, and enhance the function of fat metabolism? Where do I sign up? I know, I know... all in moderation. ? Okay - I've got an issue with the TV show, "Scrubs". I'm not normally a sitcom kind of guy, but I usually find this one somewhat amusing. BUT... About a year or so ago, they aired an episode that included an overweight young lady (with co-morbidities) who was insisting on having a gastric bypass. I was dismayed by the insensitive and misinformed handling of the subject matter. Here are some direct quotes from a doctor during the episode: "You want to take the easy way out with the surgery because you're scared. You're scared because if you try and fail, there's only you to blame. Life is scary. Get used to it."; "There are no magical fixes. It's all up to you. So get up off your keister, get out of here, and go start doin' the work."; "Nothing in this world that's worth having comes easy." I say, the guy that wrote that dialogue needs to walk in our shoes for a few weeks. ? Here's a few things I never want said to me again: "I'm worried that you're going to lose too much weight." ? "You work out too much - don't substitute one addiction with another." ? "It's not healthy to lose weight that quickly." This weekend, someone actually said, "You're getting too fit, too fast." What the "F" does that mean!?!? I work out a total of seven hours each week. I'm still 83lbs away from my goal weight. Get a grip, people. All of these comments are coming from folks who, last year, were planning to have an intervention to speak with me about my weight problem. None of which are qualified at all to give advice about healthy nutrition and exercise. Sometimes, you're just damned if you do & damned if you don't. ?  I've decided that I'm going to participate in a 5K run in late September. Yesterday, I measured out a 3.1 mile (that's 5K, if ya didn't know!) route around town for practice. It was harder than I thought. My knees and thighs would only allow me to actually run about a third of the course, total. But, I made sure to power-walk during the times when I had to stop running. I finished in about 45 minutes. Within the next 2 months, I 'm hoping to be able to work up to a full run for the entire length. I don't think that's too lofty a goal. Man, these posts just seem to get longer & longer. Many thanks to all the people *****ad my rambles each week and respond with such nice things to say - I honestly appreciate all of the kind words. Be Well -A.J.

AJ: I think I used the term "peeps" in one of my posts to Timmy Ray re: lawyer jokes. Being that I'm such a dork, it is my suggestion that you refrain from using the word...because it's probably not cool anymore if it entered my nerdy vocabulary. I remember the scrubs thing vaguely. People just don't understand... With regard to the 5 K run, I admire you. I'd love to do it, but I have major knee probs. Keep posted on progress. Angie

AJ yup, i love to read what you have to say -- no BS and this is the way it is love it what's up with Pedro having food poisoning??? best of luck on the 5K!! next yr i'm looking for a Hep C run/walk anywhere in NJ, PA philly area hopefully i'll follow thru take care roberta

Love, love, love your musings AJ - random or otherwise. Vent away - your venting thoughts sure do seem to have more thought and positive energy than many I've seen or heard! Having said that - wish I had the courage or the conviction to try a 5K - maybe at some point, but have to get up the gumption to get back to the gym first. It's getting harder and harder to take the first step, hang my head in shame, and say -- "I screwed up, I need help, please help me." -- Hugs, Nannette

Nannette, "It's getting harder and harder to take the first step, hang my head in shame, and say -- I screwed up, I need help, please help me. --" Sounds to me like you just said it. Maybe we should organize a OCWLS / TR Fitness work-out group. We can round up all of our current gym members - You, Me, Deidre, Jack, Timmy Ray, as well as anyone else who wants to be involved. Nothing crazy - something like, once or twice a month. I've noticed that after an extended absence, it's easier to get back in the swing of things if you've got some good, non-judgemental friends along for the ride. We could all show up at a specific time, do our work-out routines, give a few back slaps, "atta-boy's" and other words of encouragement, and then hang in the front lounge for a bit for coffee & some of our always stimulating conversation. Whatever it takes to get everyone's butts moving Be Well, A.J. By the way - I thought "gumption" was your middle name!

I guess I did ask for help - and I like the sound of your suggestion for a work out group. Count me in. Why is it always harder to disappoint or let down a friend, and easy to let down yourself? Gumption? - more like stubborn! Hugs, Nannette

Hey AJ It was good seeing you the other day and meeting your family ... your daughter is really cute!! I enjoy your ramblings and rants ... keep it up. I cant tell you how many people keep saying the same things to me ... they wanted me to lose the weight and now they want me to "slow it down" and not lose too fast that it "isnt healthy". Meanwhile I keep feeling better and better every day. now 2-1/2 months and at 80 lbs ... its GREAT! Do whats good for you and feels good! Stay Well Michael

Hey Peeps- I love that- it has been a while since I heard that before- well I had to post to say that I am in for the bimonthly walk or whatever we decide to do- Nan- maybe we can meet up at the gym on Saturday am- I will be there at 630- ok ok 645 ish- Big weekend- my hubby's surprise 30th- yippee- over 55 people coming to our house on Saturday afternoon- yeah for me- not!!! Have a good one