Fifty and Femme

Summer Going, going……..

Kathy — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 21:14:13 +0000

Yes, and almost gone. For all you mothers with school age children, congratulations, you have almost survived another summer!! For me, it was always bittersweet. Once I came to realization that “things” were going to be out of place and somewhat messy and that the TV was just always going to be on whether anyone was watching or not and that the beds would seldom be made every morning, I was OK with summer and the freedom it brought. Bedtimes were not as strictly enforced and meals just sort of happened without a lot of planning etc. etc. Then school would start all over again which like I said was bittersweet. All of a sudden the house was the same as I had left it earlier and where was the noise of the TV? I could actually hear my self think. I could exercise at a more enjoyable, relaxed pace and not feel like I was cramming “me time” into the day. However, it also meant the onslaught of homework, baths, bedtime, after school driving activities, and of course somewhat planned meals. Summer vs. school–they both have their good points and their not so good points! Hey, I guess that sounds like a lot of things in life!! So enjoy the rest of your summer and enjoy the freedom it brings you and when school starts, put your feet up for a day and congratulate yourself that another school year has begun and you survived another summer!! Make sure to give those kids of yours, no matter what age they are, a big hug and thank them for being yours. They are indeed precious commodities that fly the coop much too soon. Enjoy, Kathy

Hey! Remember Me?!

Kathy — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 18:46:32 +0000

Hello Everyone-My last post was about “here comes summer” and whether or not we were ready because here it is!! Guess I wasn’t ready as I haven’t found the time to communicate much, but I am always available should any of you have any questions. Anyway, hope summer is finding you healthy, wealthy and wise! Mainly, I just hope you are healthy! I did celebrate a birthday last month–57 years old or young, depending on the day! My husband treated me to a new dog as our German Shepherd of 15 years passed away last fall. This time we rescued a year old Jack Russell, Rat Terrier mix named Patty Sue. Whew! You talk about a bundle of energy-what was I thinking. No potty training for us to have to deal with and no chewing issues so that part is good, but you talk about energy! I walk Patty Sue everyday and somedays ride my bike up and down our dirt road which comes to about a mile each time. She runs along beside until her tongue is hanging out, but in 10 minutes she is ready for more!! Patty Sue does great without a leash unless there is a rabbit and then it’s like she is in a trance and I don’t exist anymore! She always comes back and like I have mentioned before, we live on a country road and have 15 acres for her to chase rabbits all she wants. It has been wonderful having a pet around and my kids says it has taken the pressure off of them having grandkids for me!! I tell you that unconditional love a pet gives you is the best and just puts you in a good mood no matter what the day has thrown your way. I would recommend it to all of you. Makes me a little younger and puts a little spring into my step. Enjoy your summer and hopefully you are finding time to eat right and get a little exercise. Pretty soon it will all be over and dark again at 6PM–what a drag. Enjoy your summer and I promise to be back sooner with some tips and answer some questions. Later, Kathy

Here Comes Summer!!

Kathy — Sun, 24 Jun 2007 20:46:50 +0000

Hey Everyone-Don’t know about where you live, but summer has finally arrived where I live. Spring was rainy and very cool so a lot of spring yardwork had to be put off for dryer days and guess what, here they are and the temperature is hotter than I want for all the work that needs to be done. Oh well, whine, whine, whine–at least we can get on with things. If you remember, my husband and I just moved into our home last summer and we really didn’t get anything planted outside as we were finishing the inside and then winter came. Spring was just too wet to get anything done so here we are. Oh well, back in the old days of kids and summer vacation came that period of adjustment when the kids were no longer in school all day and everytime you came home MTV or cartoons were on, or their was food and drinks everywhere, or their were extra kids around-some you knew, some you didn’t, and of course as they got older that constant question “Are you going to sleep all day?” or when they were younger that feeling of “I am just not ready to be a Mom yet, can’t you go back to bed for another hour?!” Summer just brings adjustment, but I have to admit, I love the freedom of summer. Fewer time restraints, it’s light for so long that it just makes you want to keep active longer which is great because it burns more calories and let’s face it, sometimes it is just too hot to think about cooking or eating which is always great. All in all, hope you are enjoying your summer. I have more later as last week I celebrated another birthday–oh joy!! I did get a new–not brand new–dog. Patty Sue, a 1 year old Jack Russell, Rat Terrier mix. She is a delight. I will save those stories for another time, got to get back outside and sweat a little more. Later, Kathy

Graduation 2007

Kathy — Fri, 25 May 2007 22:04:41 +0000

Hello Everyone-Please bear with me while I spend a little time reflecting today. This past weekend was the college graduation of my youngest child. All I can say is Wow! It still is kind of an “out of body experience” if something like that is really possible. You watch them in their cap and gown and can’t help remember when you first discovered that you were pregnant with them and then like Wow! there they are crossing the stage and I might brag a little here, crossing the stage in style with a double major and graduating with highest distinction. Like I said, Wow! Watching my other children that traveled far to celebrate with us, I looked at their lives and really liked what I saw. They are on their way in their choice of careers and enjoying life. They are successful in their fields and most importantly, they are all good people. They are successful in life and for this, I am the most proud. Good, kind, honest people who are not totally (remember they are still under 30!) self absorbed and are very considerate of those around them. It makes me so proud and feel that I have done something right! It is really fun to watch them interact as grown up people and see that they truly do like each other. There were those times in their youth where you really wonder that. Wonder if they even like you or themselves! With each phase of parenting from newborn to now, I like being a parent more and more. I am really ready to reinvent the wheel and include some grandchildren in the picture, but I know that that will come in due time. In the meantime, I think I will just sit back and reflect and continue to say Wow! Have a great day, Kathy

How Knowledgable Are You??

Kathy — Tue, 15 May 2007 18:14:19 +0000

Hi Everyone-As you have probably already noticed fitness tips, fitness plans, fitness ideas, fitness etc. etc. is everywhere. Anything you would ever want to know about fitness is truly right at your fingertips. So here is my hint for the day–take advantage of it! Seek out information on health and fitness. The more knowledgable you become, the better you will be able to guide yourself and choose a program suited for you and your own personal goals. You can achieve a healthy lifestyle, but you and only you can know what really works for you and your daily life. Really, it is that simple. Now that may also come with some trial and error. It is through mistakes that we learn what really works for us. Once you have your goals and plan a strategy, zoom, you are on your way. As you experience some success, here are some of the benefits resulting from your efforts: More personal energy, more enjoyable leisure time, a greater ability to handle stress, less depression, less hypochondria, less anxiety, fewer physical complaints, a better self image, stronger bones, slowing of the aging process–yeah!!, more restful sleep, more self confidence, more effective weight control, better concentration, etc.etc. The list can go on and on, but I think you get the idea. The choice of a healthier lifestyle produces a happier, more productive you and you, yes, you can make that happen. So become more knowledgable and learn all that there is and maybe something will jump out at you and , boom, there you are on your way. All these expletives make me feel like a bad old Batman script–boom, zoom, yeah, zonk, bonk and caboom!! Enough–have a great day. Remember I am your biggest fan. Later, Kathy

Absolutely No Excuses!!

Kathy — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 19:37:43 +0000

Hello Everyone-How is your spring exercise program coming along?? Hopefully, well, with some minor setbacks as we are, after all, only human!! How about a few more hints to keep you moving along. One of my personal favorite ideas to “keep on truckin” is to exercise with a friend. Make an appointment to exercise with someone, a time that works well for the 2 of you and try to be consistent with that time. You will want to see your friend and also you won’t want to let them down by not showing up for your set exercise time. If your friend cannot meet you, don’t not go, grab your Ipod, MP3, walkman, whatever and let your top tunes motivate you. See, it is all so simple. Here is one, how about setting your workout bag by the back door so as you leave in the morning, you are already set and you won’t “conveniently” have an excuse for not exercising. Going to the gym or to meet your workout buddy directly from work or from home is one way to make sure you get there. What do you think? Have I made it easier for you yet?? Ok, how about having a little more fun by setting up a reward system for yourself after you have reached some of your goals whether these successes are measured in inches, pounds, or consistency. Now, I am not talking of a hot fudge sundae or biggie fries, but maybe a new workout video or some of those cute little lycra stretchy shorts or top!! Whatever suits you, just make it an intelligent choice for your goals. More later, let me know how it is all going, going, gone!! Kathy

Spring Has Sprung and So Have You!

Kathy — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 18:52:55 +0000

Happy Springtime, everyone. Isn’t it gorgous outside?! Everything is so fresh and new and it all smells so good, too. It has been a very wet spring for us so far, but warm and very lush. We returned from a fabulous spring break family reunion and it is amazing what a week away from the routine can do for your psyche. I feel as fresh and green as the world around me. So what do you say, let’s make my attitude contagious for you. It is a new season, so let’s start by eating right and finding time to exercise in our day. It really won’t be that hard. It is all in the attitude and together we can do it. We have talked about planning exercise in our day and setting some short term, realistic goals and have even discussed a support system. So we should be all set to go–right?? Yes! That is your answer. Sometimes sticking to a goal is as hard as setting one up so I have a few simple solutions for you. Identify reasons why you would skip exercise or decide to eat something you know isn’t good for you and write these reasons down. I always figure if I am too embarrassed to record a food that I have just eaten then, hhmmm, it probably wasn’t a real healthy choice because I know when I eat a banana I rush to write it down!! Keep a written log of exercise and food consumed as a healthy reminder of what you really, not think, you have done. A visual is worth a thousands “I think I did that!” How about finding a role model, someone you know has been successful at a healthy lifestyle and someone you have come to admire because they have achieved what you want to achieve. Ask this person what they did, how did they do it, what worked for them and what suggestions they would have for you. Any successful person would be more than happy to help a fellow “I really want to achieve what you have achieved!!” Good luck, people, come on we can do this. I have more tips for later, but I want you to just get started. Remember it is spring, a new season, a new beginning, a fresh approach for our everyday living. Happy spring, happy day and healthy eating to all of you. More later, Kathy

Spring Break-Yikes

Kathy — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 22:59:39 +0000

Hi Everyone-I hope today finds you happy and enjoying the beginning signs of spring. How are you doing on planning exercise in your day? How about setting your goals? Hopefully, we have you up and running anticipating warmer spring days and activities in the fresh air. Spring break starts for us this weekend and an extended family reunion on the beach. Hence, the Yikes!! Swimsuits with my darling daughters and nieces, who are all in their 20’s and 30’s with their cute 20 and 30 year old bodies!! Oh well, what can a 56 year old female do to compete with that?! Nothing, absolutely nothing, but just enjoy them and myself as well. Would I want to be their age again??—-No way! However, looking like them would be nice, but what’cha gonna do! What I am going to do is call in my support system. Someone who appreciates me for me. You can do the same thing with your exercise partner. Find someone who is willing to exercise with you-let your enthusiasm motivate them or visa versa. Look to family, friends, coworkers, etc. If you are having a difficult time finding someone to exercise with you, look for someone who will support your efforts. They have your best interests in mind and they will encourage your efforts. Stay away from those who will sabotage your efforts. I mean really, who needs them?! Maybe an explanation for your choice to live a healthy lifestyle will encourage them to join you. At the very least, help support you. OK, three more days until I am in my swimsuit. How about a little encouragement??!! I need it, but what the heck, I am going to enjoy myself regardless of how I look. Hope you all enjoy your spring break as well. I will let you all know how it all went. Happy Exercising, Kathy

Setting Your Goals

Kathy — Sun, 04 Mar 2007 23:31:23 +0000

OK everyone now that we have planned exercise into our day, let’s think of setting some goals. Think about it would you drive to a new location without directions?? Maybe, but planning your route would be a much better idea! So ask yourself why you want to exercise? Maybe to improve your physical or emotional health, maybe to build muscle, maybe to lose weight. The list can continue, but whatever the reason, write down your specific goals making them realistic, reasonable goals, ones that you can stick to and then do exactly that- stick to those goals! Another idea is to chart your goals so you can see your progress or non progress and you can regroup and start again. You know 1 to 2 pound weight loss per week or an extra 10 minutes of walking on the weekend. As motivation, set a target date and remember to make exercise a priority in your day and just part of your everday life. You can do it! I have faith in you. Questions anyone on how to help setting your own personal goals. Ask away as I am here to help. Happy Exercising-You are the best, Kathy

Plan Your Day

Kathy — Mon, 26 Feb 2007 23:07:43 +0000

Whew! Holy Cow–another weekend gone by!! How quickly do they have to fly by and now another work week is here. It ’s a good thing I enjoy my line of work! But speaking of work, family time, outside activities etc etc all of these keep you from exercising on a daily basis. You know you want to exercise, know you should exercise, want to be healthy, know that you should be healthy, but honestly there is NO time in your day to exercise. Right?? Wrong!! You know you are not alone in this feeling and please realize that any new endeavour is hard to include in your daily routine, but it can be done. First and foremost, plan exercise into your day. No excuses! No time to exercise is the number 1 excuse I hear as a personal trainer. Think a minute-anything you want to do, you can do.` First look at your calendar and fill in the blank spots with some sort of fitness activity. Even if it is only for 15 minutes. Could you fit in a short, yet productive 10 minute walk?? Write these times down and stick to it! Three different 10 minute bursts of energy adds up to 30 minutes by the end of the day. Not bad! Identify reasons why you would skip exercise and write these down. Brainstorm ways to get around those obstacles. For example, how can you fit exercise into the lunch hour? OK-bring lunch from home and walk during the lunch hour. Go to the playground with the kids and actually play instead of sitting and watching. Take the stairs whenever you can. Be creative and sidestep the potholes to keep you from a healthy lifestyle. Let me know some of your obstacles and maybe between the 2 of us we can come up with a solution. Two heads are better than one! Enjoy your week and happy exercising! Kathy