Do you wonder where I am on my virtual trip to the Empire State Building?
Me, too.
Leaving my last job definitely set me back a bit. I used Google Earth on my work computer and couldn't figure out how to transfer the settings from it to my new laptop. So, I started over. I was almost current when Google Earth mysteriously disappeared from my computer, along with everything I had already done. I fortunately have my exercise log still; otherwise, I'd just give up on the idea, sadly. I tried to re-install Google Earth but ran into difficulties then ran out of time to work on it.
This is all just to explain why I haven't been posting my virtual progress the last few months. Never fear, I will get this figured out and will eventually post where I am. I'm still recording my exercise every month, so I have the important data.
I wonder how close I am to New York! I can't wait to find out!
Showing posts with label virtual route. Show all posts
Showing posts with label virtual route. Show all posts
Friday, June 18, 2010
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Virtual Route 13 and Small Success #7
Still plugging along on my way to NYC. Have you voted on when you think I'll actually arrive? If not, the poll is on my sidebar.
Here's where I am right now. As always, you'll need to click on the picture to actually see anything.
I am thrilled to finally make it to Iowa! I love crossing into new states, especially since I've never really been to Iowa. Makes me want to go. Maybe someday I'll drive this virtual route. Wouldn't that be fun?!
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 11.01.09
# of days traveled: 26
# of stationary days: 4
Miles traveled: 95.2
Hours on the road: 23.75
Calories burned: 12,026
Total miles traveled: 1150
Miles 'til NYC: 1206.6
Thoughts:
This was a good exercise month. I worried as the weather turned colder that I would struggle to exercise, since walking outside is my favorite exercise. However, I think that dilemma has been solved; a friend and I started walking at the college indoor track together in the mornings. With the mornings being as dark as they are, I'd never be able to get myself out of bed at 6:10 am to go walking, especially if I had to drive somewhere first. Knowing that she's waiting for me is the push I need not only to get out of bed, but also to get to bed at a decent time the night before.
As far as my goals, I accomplished the goal of walking 15 times in the morning and of only missing 4 days of exercise! Woohoo! That morning number should go up with my new morning routine, so I'm not even going to worry about it as a goal for next month. I'm bummed that I missed the 100 mile mark by just a few miles; this month I'll have to make sure I go further when I exercise. I only managed three two-a-days, four short of my goal. Sigh. I've got to try harder.
I'm running longer periods now that I'm running around a track and can measure how far I'm running. I've been averaging about a mile a morning of running and 1.5 to 2 miles of walking, running one lap followed by one or two laps of walking. Yesterday, however, I had a Small Success - I ran 6 laps without stopping! I decided to see how far I could go before I couldn't run any more, and 6 is what I got. That's over 1/2 a mile! That's two times around a normal track! And, I didn't stop at that, I continued to run 2 laps at a time and ended up running 1.6 miles and walking 1 mile. It's the first day that I ran more than I walked. Woohoo! In case you don't remember from last month, here are my running goals:
1. Run once around the track (or 1/4 of a mile) without stopping. DONE!
2. Run a mile without stopping.
3. Run a 5k without stopping.
I really enjoy running. It feels amazing to have my body working so fluidly. I find myself looking forward to running again, though it's still hard dragging myself out of bed that early. My knees hurt a little bit after I've finished for the morning, especially since I have to go down a couple flights of stairs, but they don't hurt while I'm running and they feel fine by the time I get home. And, I think running has kick-started my weight loss again! All in all, I'm very pleased.
Next Month's Goals:
1. Only miss 4 days and travel 100+ miles. Totally do-able if I exert enough effort.
2. Have 7 "two-a-days". There's no reason I can't do this. I just need to make more time in the evenings.
3. Run a mile without stopping. Why not incorporate my running goals into my monthly goals? This may be a little lofty, but I know that I'll be able to accomplish it one day.
Here's where I am right now. As always, you'll need to click on the picture to actually see anything.
I am thrilled to finally make it to Iowa! I love crossing into new states, especially since I've never really been to Iowa. Makes me want to go. Maybe someday I'll drive this virtual route. Wouldn't that be fun?!
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 11.01.09
# of days traveled: 26
# of stationary days: 4
Miles traveled: 95.2
Hours on the road: 23.75
Calories burned: 12,026
Total miles traveled: 1150
Miles 'til NYC: 1206.6
Thoughts:
This was a good exercise month. I worried as the weather turned colder that I would struggle to exercise, since walking outside is my favorite exercise. However, I think that dilemma has been solved; a friend and I started walking at the college indoor track together in the mornings. With the mornings being as dark as they are, I'd never be able to get myself out of bed at 6:10 am to go walking, especially if I had to drive somewhere first. Knowing that she's waiting for me is the push I need not only to get out of bed, but also to get to bed at a decent time the night before.
As far as my goals, I accomplished the goal of walking 15 times in the morning and of only missing 4 days of exercise! Woohoo! That morning number should go up with my new morning routine, so I'm not even going to worry about it as a goal for next month. I'm bummed that I missed the 100 mile mark by just a few miles; this month I'll have to make sure I go further when I exercise. I only managed three two-a-days, four short of my goal. Sigh. I've got to try harder.
I'm running longer periods now that I'm running around a track and can measure how far I'm running. I've been averaging about a mile a morning of running and 1.5 to 2 miles of walking, running one lap followed by one or two laps of walking. Yesterday, however, I had a Small Success - I ran 6 laps without stopping! I decided to see how far I could go before I couldn't run any more, and 6 is what I got. That's over 1/2 a mile! That's two times around a normal track! And, I didn't stop at that, I continued to run 2 laps at a time and ended up running 1.6 miles and walking 1 mile. It's the first day that I ran more than I walked. Woohoo! In case you don't remember from last month, here are my running goals:
1. Run once around the track (or 1/4 of a mile) without stopping. DONE!
2. Run a mile without stopping.
3. Run a 5k without stopping.
I really enjoy running. It feels amazing to have my body working so fluidly. I find myself looking forward to running again, though it's still hard dragging myself out of bed that early. My knees hurt a little bit after I've finished for the morning, especially since I have to go down a couple flights of stairs, but they don't hurt while I'm running and they feel fine by the time I get home. And, I think running has kick-started my weight loss again! All in all, I'm very pleased.
Next Month's Goals:
1. Only miss 4 days and travel 100+ miles. Totally do-able if I exert enough effort.
2. Have 7 "two-a-days". There's no reason I can't do this. I just need to make more time in the evenings.
3. Run a mile without stopping. Why not incorporate my running goals into my monthly goals? This may be a little lofty, but I know that I'll be able to accomplish it one day.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Virtual Route 12
To be honest, I'm amazed sometimes how long I've lasted at recording my exercise. This virtual journey has really helped. Now, if only I could come up with something that motivates me to journal my food intake. Oh well. Here's my latest progress:
And, because I didn't really accomplish anything "fun" this trip, here is a picture of the whole trip so far. You'll definitely have to click on the picture to do it justice.
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 10.01.09
# of days traveled: 24
# of stationary days: 7
Miles traveled: 100.4
Hours on the road: 18.5
Calories burned: 9,217
Total miles traveled: 1054.8
Miles 'til NYC: 1301.8
Thoughts:
I definitely struggled this month. I accomplished just one of my goals from last month - traveling over 100 miles. I didn't even come close to my other goals; only exercised 8 mornings, only 3 days of exercising more than once, and missed 7 days. I'm glad that there's room for improvement, it gives me something to shoot for for next month.
Seriously, exercising in the morning has to become a priority! My evenings are so busy and promise to become even busier now that the holiday season is upon us. Plus, I'm a Pampered Chef consultant now - putting on cooking shows contributed to three of the days I missed because I didn't exercise the morning of the show. In order to wake up early enough to ride my bike, I have GOT to start going to bed earlier. Isn't it amazing how easy it is to break good habits? I remember when my lights were off by 11pm and I was consistently waking up at 6:30 to walk. Sigh. Those were the days. *smile*
On a positive note, I've started to run. I've wanted to run for years! I loved the idea of my whole body working so efficiently and smoothly, the wind blowing my hair. I sometimes wondered if the idea was better than the actual running would be since it had been so very long since the last time I had run (think middle school). So far, running is as good as I always dreamed it could be.
Please don't misunderstand me, I'm not talking about lengthy runs. I just run a little bit each time I go for a walk. So far, I haven't figured out the distance I'm able to run before stopping. However, I've noticed that I'm able to run a lot longer than I could at the beginning of the month. My legs feel so good after running, it makes me excited to run again! I have three running goals for the future:
1. Run once around the track without stopping.
2. Run a mile without stopping (4x around the track).
3. Run a 5k (3.2 miles) without stopping
I don't know when I'll accomplish these goals, but I'll definitely let you know when I do. In the meantime, I'm loving having something new to do. If only winter wasn't coming. I'm not looking forward to exercising indoors. Oh well.
Next Month's Goals:
1. Only miss 4 days and travel 100+ miles. Totally do-able if I exert enough effort.
2. Have 7 "two-a-days". This one is kind of tricky, but I really do believe I can accomplish it.
3. Exercise 15 times in the morning. I lowered the number of times, but it's still pretty lofty considering my current situation. I'm trying to shoot for the stars. *smile*
And, because I didn't really accomplish anything "fun" this trip, here is a picture of the whole trip so far. You'll definitely have to click on the picture to do it justice.
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 10.01.09
# of days traveled: 24
# of stationary days: 7
Miles traveled: 100.4
Hours on the road: 18.5
Calories burned: 9,217
Total miles traveled: 1054.8
Miles 'til NYC: 1301.8
Thoughts:
I definitely struggled this month. I accomplished just one of my goals from last month - traveling over 100 miles. I didn't even come close to my other goals; only exercised 8 mornings, only 3 days of exercising more than once, and missed 7 days. I'm glad that there's room for improvement, it gives me something to shoot for for next month.
Seriously, exercising in the morning has to become a priority! My evenings are so busy and promise to become even busier now that the holiday season is upon us. Plus, I'm a Pampered Chef consultant now - putting on cooking shows contributed to three of the days I missed because I didn't exercise the morning of the show. In order to wake up early enough to ride my bike, I have GOT to start going to bed earlier. Isn't it amazing how easy it is to break good habits? I remember when my lights were off by 11pm and I was consistently waking up at 6:30 to walk. Sigh. Those were the days. *smile*
On a positive note, I've started to run. I've wanted to run for years! I loved the idea of my whole body working so efficiently and smoothly, the wind blowing my hair. I sometimes wondered if the idea was better than the actual running would be since it had been so very long since the last time I had run (think middle school). So far, running is as good as I always dreamed it could be.
Please don't misunderstand me, I'm not talking about lengthy runs. I just run a little bit each time I go for a walk. So far, I haven't figured out the distance I'm able to run before stopping. However, I've noticed that I'm able to run a lot longer than I could at the beginning of the month. My legs feel so good after running, it makes me excited to run again! I have three running goals for the future:
1. Run once around the track without stopping.
2. Run a mile without stopping (4x around the track).
3. Run a 5k (3.2 miles) without stopping
I don't know when I'll accomplish these goals, but I'll definitely let you know when I do. In the meantime, I'm loving having something new to do. If only winter wasn't coming. I'm not looking forward to exercising indoors. Oh well.
Next Month's Goals:
1. Only miss 4 days and travel 100+ miles. Totally do-able if I exert enough effort.
2. Have 7 "two-a-days". This one is kind of tricky, but I really do believe I can accomplish it.
3. Exercise 15 times in the morning. I lowered the number of times, but it's still pretty lofty considering my current situation. I'm trying to shoot for the stars. *smile*
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Virtual Route 11
I'm back with another edition of "Where's Julie?" Be honest, that's a slightly better title than "Virtual Route ____", right? That's what I thought. Oh well, it's too late to change titles now.
I'm making pretty good time through Nebraska. I'm thinking I may get close to crossing into Iowa next month. We'll see. I love "watching" the cities go by. I've never heard of most of them and can't help wondering what they really look like. I wonder who lives there and what they are doing with their lives. Little do they know that some girl in Utah has just "traveled" through their town.
Anyway, on to the important bit - the Stats!
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 9.1.09
# of days traveled: 26
# of stationary days: 4 - woohoo!
Miles traveled: 107.6
Hours on the road: 23.5
Calories burned: 11,142
Total miles traveled: 954.4
Miles 'til NYC: 1402.2
Boy, I'm getting so close to New York that I can almost see the Empire State Building! Okay, so not really, but I've definitely made progress.
Thoughts:
I'm thrilled about accomplishing 2 of my goals from previous months! It took quite an effort to only miss 4 days of exercising, but that was the point of making it a goal - to encourage me to make the effort. Missing so few days really helps me achieve the goal of traveling 100+ miles. Now, I'm going to work on the goal that I didn't accomplish. I'm slowly getting back into the habit of going to bed at an earlier time. It usually takes my body awhile to realize it is getting enough sleep and can wake up at 6:30 to go for a walk or bike ride. I have high hopes for this next month.
I really enjoy exercising. Probably because I've chosen activities I enjoy doing. I love walking. I wish I lived somewhere that allowed for walking outside year-round. Oh well. Ever since I moved a tv in front of my stationary bike, I feel more inclined to ride it if I can't make it out for a walk. I'm sad that the weather is turning colder; I'll miss playing tennis, walking outside, and hiking. Really, I just need to find some fun cold weather activities!
Overall, a good month. I am definitely accomplishing my goals and can see room for improvement, which motivates me to keep working hard.
Next Month's Goals:
1. Exercise in the morning at least 18 times. In September, I logged 13 mornings.
2. Have 7 "two-a-days" during the month. This is 2 times more than I did in September.
3. The ever-present goals of missing 4 days or less of exercise and traveling 100+ miles.
I'm making pretty good time through Nebraska. I'm thinking I may get close to crossing into Iowa next month. We'll see. I love "watching" the cities go by. I've never heard of most of them and can't help wondering what they really look like. I wonder who lives there and what they are doing with their lives. Little do they know that some girl in Utah has just "traveled" through their town.
Anyway, on to the important bit - the Stats!
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 9.1.09
# of days traveled: 26
# of stationary days: 4 - woohoo!
Miles traveled: 107.6
Hours on the road: 23.5
Calories burned: 11,142
Total miles traveled: 954.4
Miles 'til NYC: 1402.2
Boy, I'm getting so close to New York that I can almost see the Empire State Building! Okay, so not really, but I've definitely made progress.
Thoughts:
I'm thrilled about accomplishing 2 of my goals from previous months! It took quite an effort to only miss 4 days of exercising, but that was the point of making it a goal - to encourage me to make the effort. Missing so few days really helps me achieve the goal of traveling 100+ miles. Now, I'm going to work on the goal that I didn't accomplish. I'm slowly getting back into the habit of going to bed at an earlier time. It usually takes my body awhile to realize it is getting enough sleep and can wake up at 6:30 to go for a walk or bike ride. I have high hopes for this next month.
I really enjoy exercising. Probably because I've chosen activities I enjoy doing. I love walking. I wish I lived somewhere that allowed for walking outside year-round. Oh well. Ever since I moved a tv in front of my stationary bike, I feel more inclined to ride it if I can't make it out for a walk. I'm sad that the weather is turning colder; I'll miss playing tennis, walking outside, and hiking. Really, I just need to find some fun cold weather activities!
Overall, a good month. I am definitely accomplishing my goals and can see room for improvement, which motivates me to keep working hard.
Next Month's Goals:
1. Exercise in the morning at least 18 times. In September, I logged 13 mornings.
2. Have 7 "two-a-days" during the month. This is 2 times more than I did in September.
3. The ever-present goals of missing 4 days or less of exercise and traveling 100+ miles.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Virtual Route 10
I'm still plugging along on my trip to New York City. I honestly didn't realize it would take this long to get this far. I mean, I knew it would take awhile, but I thought I'd be closer after 7 months of steady exercising. Oh well. Just for fun, I'm going to put a poll up on my sidebar so you can vote when you think I'll arrive. Again, I stole the idea from Sarah. Without her, I wouldn't have a single good idea. *smile*
Anyhoo, here's where I am:
As you can see from the picture (if you click on it to enlarge it), I've finally entered Nebraska. I'm pretty excited whenever I enter a new state. It takes so long to get through a state! I'm really looking forward to getting back east; maybe it'll only take me a couple months to exercise my way through some of those smaller states instead of the 4+ it took me to get through Colorado.
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 7.28.09
# of days traveled: 28
# of stationary days: 5 - vast improvement from last month's 12!
Miles traveled: 104.2
Hours on the road: 26.6
Calories burned: 13,595
Total miles traveled: 846.8
Miles 'til NYC: 1509.8
Thoughts:
I definitely feel better with my performance this leg compared to July. I worked really hard to not miss as many days as last month. I didn't quite accomplish my goal of only missing 4 days, but I'm pleased that it was just one day off. I'm also pleased to have accomplished my goal of traveling 100 miles this month, especially since there were several days that I played tennis or racquetball, which I don't count towards my mileage since I don't know how to say how "far" I exercised. It's fun to have some variety, though, and they boost my Calories Burned and Days Traveled, so I'll keep adding them into the mix as often as possible.
Ideally, I'd wake up early every morning and ride my bike or walk, then either play tennis/racquetball or walk every evening. Ideally. The "problem" has been my new friends who are so much fun I stay up late to hang out with them, making it hard to wake up at 6:30. However, they are also the ones with whom I play tennis and racquetball. I just need to get better at saying goodnight earlier. Yeah, wish me luck with that! *smile*
Again, overall I'm pleased with the month. I feel really good and, despite the decreased sleep, feel pretty energetic. Oh, and playing tennis has become so much easier! It's easier to run after balls and even my swing is smoother. I didn't play tennis last year, but I bet I wouldn't have enjoyed it. I was so heavy, I probably wouldn't have been able to play for very long without dying of a heart attack. And, I know I wouldn't have liked racquetball - it takes quite a bit of energy and I wouldn't have had it. Now I love it! I can't help but think about how much better I'll be as I practice AND as I get even lighter! Something to work towards, definitely.
Next Month's Goals:
1. Miss 4 days or fewer. This is such a do-able goal! I'm going to accomplish this one in September even if it kills me!
2. Travel 100 miles or more for a 2nd month in a row. Really, if I'm ever going to get to NYC, this is going to have to become a regular occurrence.
3. Wake up 4 mornings a week to exercise - 3 times during the week (non-weekend). This is also totally do-able, I'm just not doing it lately. If I wake up to exercise, it'll really help out with goal #1.
Anyhoo, here's where I am:
As you can see from the picture (if you click on it to enlarge it), I've finally entered Nebraska. I'm pretty excited whenever I enter a new state. It takes so long to get through a state! I'm really looking forward to getting back east; maybe it'll only take me a couple months to exercise my way through some of those smaller states instead of the 4+ it took me to get through Colorado.
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 7.28.09
# of days traveled: 28
# of stationary days: 5 - vast improvement from last month's 12!
Miles traveled: 104.2
Hours on the road: 26.6
Calories burned: 13,595
Total miles traveled: 846.8
Miles 'til NYC: 1509.8
Thoughts:
I definitely feel better with my performance this leg compared to July. I worked really hard to not miss as many days as last month. I didn't quite accomplish my goal of only missing 4 days, but I'm pleased that it was just one day off. I'm also pleased to have accomplished my goal of traveling 100 miles this month, especially since there were several days that I played tennis or racquetball, which I don't count towards my mileage since I don't know how to say how "far" I exercised. It's fun to have some variety, though, and they boost my Calories Burned and Days Traveled, so I'll keep adding them into the mix as often as possible.
Ideally, I'd wake up early every morning and ride my bike or walk, then either play tennis/racquetball or walk every evening. Ideally. The "problem" has been my new friends who are so much fun I stay up late to hang out with them, making it hard to wake up at 6:30. However, they are also the ones with whom I play tennis and racquetball. I just need to get better at saying goodnight earlier. Yeah, wish me luck with that! *smile*
Again, overall I'm pleased with the month. I feel really good and, despite the decreased sleep, feel pretty energetic. Oh, and playing tennis has become so much easier! It's easier to run after balls and even my swing is smoother. I didn't play tennis last year, but I bet I wouldn't have enjoyed it. I was so heavy, I probably wouldn't have been able to play for very long without dying of a heart attack. And, I know I wouldn't have liked racquetball - it takes quite a bit of energy and I wouldn't have had it. Now I love it! I can't help but think about how much better I'll be as I practice AND as I get even lighter! Something to work towards, definitely.
Next Month's Goals:
1. Miss 4 days or fewer. This is such a do-able goal! I'm going to accomplish this one in September even if it kills me!
2. Travel 100 miles or more for a 2nd month in a row. Really, if I'm ever going to get to NYC, this is going to have to become a regular occurrence.
3. Wake up 4 mornings a week to exercise - 3 times during the week (non-weekend). This is also totally do-able, I'm just not doing it lately. If I wake up to exercise, it'll really help out with goal #1.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Virtual Route 9
Still going, slowly but surely!
I am so close to crossing into Nebraska! If only I would have had a more productive month. Sigh. More on that later. Here are the stats:
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 6.23.09
# of days traveled: 23
# of stationary days: 12 - *head hung in shame*
Miles traveled: 63.4
Hours on the road: 17.9
Calories burned: 9170
Total miles traveled: 742.6
Miles 'til NYC: 1614
Thoughts:
Summer is tough. It's amazing I managed to exercise as much as I did, I was so busy - and that's not just an excuse for missing so many days. Between work trips, fun trips, people visiting, camping, staying up too late talking to friends and neighbors, and other fun stuff, it's a wonder that I didn't miss more.
Waking up at 6:20 am to walk has become easier to do. There are still mornings when I have to drag myself out of bed, but that's usually due to staying up too late. On the days when I would rather sleep another hour, I warn myself that I've become so busy in the evenings that if I don't walk right then, it won't happen and I'll have more Missed Days on my Stats. Even evenings I think are empty have a way of filling up. I'm not complaining - I'm having lots of fun this summer - it's just something I've come to realize.
The only drawback to walking in the mornings is my hesitation to try a new walk. I know exactly how long it takes me to walk the three routes I normally walk and two of them are the perfect length for the morning. I'd love to try some new routes that Mom has mentioned, but I don't know how long it would take ME to walk them. I'd hate to get going on one and discover that it's taking too long, possibly causing me to be late for work. There's an easy solution to this problem - measuring the routes on Google Earth, like I do for my Virtual Route - but I just came up with it as I typed this paragraph, so I haven't done it yet. *smile* I already know it takes me 45 minutes to walk 2.5 miles, so it'll be easy to go from there. So, I guess there are no drawbacks to walking in the mornings. Woohoo!
Next Month's Goals:
1. Miss less than 4 days. This was last month's goal, too. Yeah, totally didn't happen. I have high hopes for August, though.
2. Travel over 100 miles. Again, last month's goal, but it's such a do-able goal if I really put some effort into exercising every day and twice a day whenever possible.
I am so close to crossing into Nebraska! If only I would have had a more productive month. Sigh. More on that later. Here are the stats:
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 6.23.09
# of days traveled: 23
# of stationary days: 12 - *head hung in shame*
Miles traveled: 63.4
Hours on the road: 17.9
Calories burned: 9170
Total miles traveled: 742.6
Miles 'til NYC: 1614
Thoughts:
Summer is tough. It's amazing I managed to exercise as much as I did, I was so busy - and that's not just an excuse for missing so many days. Between work trips, fun trips, people visiting, camping, staying up too late talking to friends and neighbors, and other fun stuff, it's a wonder that I didn't miss more.
Waking up at 6:20 am to walk has become easier to do. There are still mornings when I have to drag myself out of bed, but that's usually due to staying up too late. On the days when I would rather sleep another hour, I warn myself that I've become so busy in the evenings that if I don't walk right then, it won't happen and I'll have more Missed Days on my Stats. Even evenings I think are empty have a way of filling up. I'm not complaining - I'm having lots of fun this summer - it's just something I've come to realize.
The only drawback to walking in the mornings is my hesitation to try a new walk. I know exactly how long it takes me to walk the three routes I normally walk and two of them are the perfect length for the morning. I'd love to try some new routes that Mom has mentioned, but I don't know how long it would take ME to walk them. I'd hate to get going on one and discover that it's taking too long, possibly causing me to be late for work. There's an easy solution to this problem - measuring the routes on Google Earth, like I do for my Virtual Route - but I just came up with it as I typed this paragraph, so I haven't done it yet. *smile* I already know it takes me 45 minutes to walk 2.5 miles, so it'll be easy to go from there. So, I guess there are no drawbacks to walking in the mornings. Woohoo!
Next Month's Goals:
1. Miss less than 4 days. This was last month's goal, too. Yeah, totally didn't happen. I have high hopes for August, though.
2. Travel over 100 miles. Again, last month's goal, but it's such a do-able goal if I really put some effort into exercising every day and twice a day whenever possible.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Virtual Route 8
I'm still rolling along on my trip to New York City!
I'm almost through Colorado! I'd like to be through Nebraska in two months, that's my goal.
This leg's stats:
Start date of this leg: 5.26.09
# of days traveled: 22
# of stationary days: 8 - Double Yikes!
Miles traveled: 71.5
Hours on the road: 23.5
Calories burned: 11,450
Miles 'til NYC: 1677.4
Thoughts:
I missed quite a few days of exercise again this leg. In fact, today was the first time I've exercised since Saturday! Sigh. It's work. I tried to fit a walk or bike ride in but this last week has been a killer; working mega early and plans every evening. I still feel pretty good about the month, though. There were several days of exercising in the morning and evening, which kind of makes up for the missed days.
Ever since I started walking regularly, I've been estimating the number of calories I burn each walk. Well, I discovered a calories burned website that tells you approximately how many calories you burn for different activities, accounting for your weight, how long you did the activity, and how fast you were going. Turns out, I've been underestimating by quite a lot! I checked a few other sites to verify and they all said about the same thing. Very nice.
I've been walking longer routes. My current favorite is 4 miles long and has a good mix of inclines/declines, flat areas, and interesting scenery. AND, I feel great when I finish it - my legs feel like they've had a good workout. I mix up my walks, though, so I don't get bored. It really helps.
Next Month Goals:
1. To miss 4 days or less of exercising. That gives me 1 day a week to not exercise, though someday I'd love to not miss any days!
2. Travel over 100 miles.
I'm almost through Colorado! I'd like to be through Nebraska in two months, that's my goal.
This leg's stats:
Start date of this leg: 5.26.09
# of days traveled: 22
# of stationary days: 8 - Double Yikes!
Miles traveled: 71.5
Hours on the road: 23.5
Calories burned: 11,450
Miles 'til NYC: 1677.4
Thoughts:
I missed quite a few days of exercise again this leg. In fact, today was the first time I've exercised since Saturday! Sigh. It's work. I tried to fit a walk or bike ride in but this last week has been a killer; working mega early and plans every evening. I still feel pretty good about the month, though. There were several days of exercising in the morning and evening, which kind of makes up for the missed days.
Ever since I started walking regularly, I've been estimating the number of calories I burn each walk. Well, I discovered a calories burned website that tells you approximately how many calories you burn for different activities, accounting for your weight, how long you did the activity, and how fast you were going. Turns out, I've been underestimating by quite a lot! I checked a few other sites to verify and they all said about the same thing. Very nice.
I've been walking longer routes. My current favorite is 4 miles long and has a good mix of inclines/declines, flat areas, and interesting scenery. AND, I feel great when I finish it - my legs feel like they've had a good workout. I mix up my walks, though, so I don't get bored. It really helps.
Next Month Goals:
1. To miss 4 days or less of exercising. That gives me 1 day a week to not exercise, though someday I'd love to not miss any days!
2. Travel over 100 miles.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Virtual Route 7
I finally made it to Denver, CO!
Boy, it feels great to reach this mile post! The last week has been so crazy and busy that exercising has sort of fallen in my priorities. This achievement re-motivates me to make the time to exercise, even when life is crazy.
This segment's stats:
Start date of this leg: 4.27.09
# of days traveled: 21
# of stationary days: 6 - Yikes!
Miles traveled: 86.9
Hours on the road: 21
Calories burned: 4951
Miles 'til NYC: 1748.9
It's interesting to note that I missed SIX days of exercise during this segment and yet still burned more calories than I did last segment. Probably due to the hiking and increased speed/resistance on my bike. You can also tell that I'm walking more from the decreased miles traveled; however, all these numbers could have been much higher if I wouldn't have missed those six days. Sigh. At least it gives me something to improve this next month, right? *smile*
Some Interesting Facts About Denver:
1. I once started a long-distance relationship here. The guy didn't live in Denver, he lived in Arizona. I didn't live in Denver either, I lived in Utah.
2. My most recent kiss took place in Denver. December 2008.
3. I've only physically been to Denver twice. I wonder if something romantic will happen every time I go there. And, if I'm only there virtually, will the romantic occurrence happen virtually, too? I hope not. I hope it's in real life! *grin*
Boy, it feels great to reach this mile post! The last week has been so crazy and busy that exercising has sort of fallen in my priorities. This achievement re-motivates me to make the time to exercise, even when life is crazy.
This segment's stats:
Start date of this leg: 4.27.09
# of days traveled: 21
# of stationary days: 6 - Yikes!
Miles traveled: 86.9
Hours on the road: 21
Calories burned: 4951
Miles 'til NYC: 1748.9
It's interesting to note that I missed SIX days of exercise during this segment and yet still burned more calories than I did last segment. Probably due to the hiking and increased speed/resistance on my bike. You can also tell that I'm walking more from the decreased miles traveled; however, all these numbers could have been much higher if I wouldn't have missed those six days. Sigh. At least it gives me something to improve this next month, right? *smile*
Some Interesting Facts About Denver:
1. I once started a long-distance relationship here. The guy didn't live in Denver, he lived in Arizona. I didn't live in Denver either, I lived in Utah.
2. My most recent kiss took place in Denver. December 2008.
3. I've only physically been to Denver twice. I wonder if something romantic will happen every time I go there. And, if I'm only there virtually, will the romantic occurrence happen virtually, too? I hope not. I hope it's in real life! *grin*
Monday, April 27, 2009
Virtual Route #6
Start date of this leg: 4.3.09
# of days traveled: 21
# of stationary days: 3
Miles traveled: 101.0
Hours on the road: 16
Calories burned: 4731
Miles 'til NYC: 1835.8
Overall Impresssions
I feel really good about how well I did on this leg of the journey. I've come 520.8 miles in just over 3 months - not too shabby! I'm especially proud that I only missed 3 days during the whole 24-day leg. Last week, I exercised 7 days in a row - a first since I started keeping track. Woohoo! I really thought I would have made it to Denver this time, but I guess I was farther away than I thought. Oh well. Maybe next time! I feel like I'm doing well but don't seem to be getting anywhere on the map.
In addition:
On Saturday I weighed myself and I've lost 80 lbs! I had decided not to do anything to celebrate this marker because I spent so much money on 70 and 75 lbs. However, this morning I put on my black slacks and drowned in them. I have to pull them up a little because I step on the hem when I walk. I'm thrilled with this sign of my weight loss but am also a little annoyed that I have to buy new pants. I'm not a huge shopper for clothes. Sigh. Really, though, I'm thrilled with how much weight I've lost - it's like a dream! Woohoo!
Friday, April 3, 2009
Virtual Route #5
Are you ready to see where I am on my virtual trip to New York City? ( Hint: if not, now's the time to go to another site.)
As always, to get a better view of the route, just click on the picture. This picture is of the most recent leg of my trip. I recently drove this road (December) and remember thinking how pretty it was. In this virtual trip, I'm almost to the point where it started to snow and became really slippery (Glenwood Springs). While towing a 40ft trailer, "snow" and "slippery" combined with "mountain pass" are not fun words.
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 3.16.09
# of days traveled: 14
# of lazy days: 4
Miles traveled: 78.9
Hours traveled: 10.3
Calories burned: 3463
Miles 'til NYC: 1936.8
This segment had the most diverse activities of any other segment; I walked, biked, hiked, and swam! This sort of accounts for the lower miles traveled (along with the 4 missed days!) and definitely accounts for the most calories I've ever burned in one segment! Plus, I've been trying to push myself on the bike - going longer or at a harder level - and that has really increased how many calories I burn in one workout. I'm also really excited to get below 2000 miles 'til reaching my destination.
Now, because I want to and because I can, here's a picture of the whole route so far:
I wonder if I can make it to Denver next time? It's something to shoot for!
As always, to get a better view of the route, just click on the picture. This picture is of the most recent leg of my trip. I recently drove this road (December) and remember thinking how pretty it was. In this virtual trip, I'm almost to the point where it started to snow and became really slippery (Glenwood Springs). While towing a 40ft trailer, "snow" and "slippery" combined with "mountain pass" are not fun words.
Stats:
Start date of this leg: 3.16.09
# of days traveled: 14
# of lazy days: 4
Miles traveled: 78.9
Hours traveled: 10.3
Calories burned: 3463
Miles 'til NYC: 1936.8
This segment had the most diverse activities of any other segment; I walked, biked, hiked, and swam! This sort of accounts for the lower miles traveled (along with the 4 missed days!) and definitely accounts for the most calories I've ever burned in one segment! Plus, I've been trying to push myself on the bike - going longer or at a harder level - and that has really increased how many calories I burn in one workout. I'm also really excited to get below 2000 miles 'til reaching my destination.
Now, because I want to and because I can, here's a picture of the whole route so far:
I wonder if I can make it to Denver next time? It's something to shoot for!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Virtual Route 4
Happy Trails, Everyone!
It's another installment of "Where Is She Now", otherwise known as my virtual route to New York City. Here's my progress to date:
You can't tell when the picture is this small, but I'm finally in Colorado and just passed Grand Junction; accomplishing my goal for this segment! Woohoo!
Here are the stats:
Start date of this section: 2.28.09
# of days traveled: 10
Miles traveled: 68.6
Hours traveled: 5.3
Calories burned: 2296
Miles 'til NYC: 2015.7
I missed a lot of days during this two-week section, partially due to traveling for work and partially due to being crazy-sick last week. That said, I'm proud that I didn't miss a day for any other reason, like not wanting to exercise. :)
I've bumped up my bike ride from level 2 to level 3 - this has increased the number of calories I burn and increases how far I ride during a 25-minute workout. My legs really feel the difference. Not wanting to neglect my arms, I bought two 5-lb weights and do a few reps of different arm exercises while I ride. So, overall, despite the several missed days, I feel really good about how I'm doing.
'Til Next Time!
It's another installment of "Where Is She Now", otherwise known as my virtual route to New York City. Here's my progress to date:
You can't tell when the picture is this small, but I'm finally in Colorado and just passed Grand Junction; accomplishing my goal for this segment! Woohoo!
Here are the stats:
Start date of this section: 2.28.09
# of days traveled: 10
Miles traveled: 68.6
Hours traveled: 5.3
Calories burned: 2296
Miles 'til NYC: 2015.7
I missed a lot of days during this two-week section, partially due to traveling for work and partially due to being crazy-sick last week. That said, I'm proud that I didn't miss a day for any other reason, like not wanting to exercise. :)
I've bumped up my bike ride from level 2 to level 3 - this has increased the number of calories I burn and increases how far I ride during a 25-minute workout. My legs really feel the difference. Not wanting to neglect my arms, I bought two 5-lb weights and do a few reps of different arm exercises while I ride. So, overall, despite the several missed days, I feel really good about how I'm doing.
'Til Next Time!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Virtual Route 3
I finally have time to post the latest progress on my virtual trip to New York. Here it is:
As you can see, I didn't quite make it to the Colorado border, but I came awfully close! I feel good about my progress, especially since I missed a couple days (cousins weekend) and walked two days (less miles when I walk).
Start date of this section: 2.9.09
Number of days traveled: 16 - remember I missed some days
Miles traveled: 110.4
Hours traveled: 9.0
Calories burned: 2924 - doesn't include calories burned while walking
Miles 'til New York City: 2084.3
My plan is to start riding my bike in the morning and walking in the evenings once Daylight Savings starts. It'll be light enough for me to walk after work. I enjoy both activities, so I want to do both.
Last Saturday, I walked for the first time in many months and was a little nervous about how I'd feel. I walked my favorite route - from my house to the cemetery, all around the cemetery, then home again. Even when I used to walk that route three or four times a week, it was really hard walking to the cemetery because of the incline and my legs would start to burn. It would be tempting to give up and go back home.
I prepared for this feeling, but it never came. It wasn't exactly easy - my legs were still working hard - but it was a lot easier than it used to be! Losing over 50 lbs must help a lot, but I bet that riding my bike so much for the last couple months has conditioned my legs and now they're a lot stronger. It was a small, but happy, victory.
As you can see, I didn't quite make it to the Colorado border, but I came awfully close! I feel good about my progress, especially since I missed a couple days (cousins weekend) and walked two days (less miles when I walk).
Start date of this section: 2.9.09
Number of days traveled: 16 - remember I missed some days
Miles traveled: 110.4
Hours traveled: 9.0
Calories burned: 2924 - doesn't include calories burned while walking
Miles 'til New York City: 2084.3
My plan is to start riding my bike in the morning and walking in the evenings once Daylight Savings starts. It'll be light enough for me to walk after work. I enjoy both activities, so I want to do both.
Last Saturday, I walked for the first time in many months and was a little nervous about how I'd feel. I walked my favorite route - from my house to the cemetery, all around the cemetery, then home again. Even when I used to walk that route three or four times a week, it was really hard walking to the cemetery because of the incline and my legs would start to burn. It would be tempting to give up and go back home.
I prepared for this feeling, but it never came. It wasn't exactly easy - my legs were still working hard - but it was a lot easier than it used to be! Losing over 50 lbs must help a lot, but I bet that riding my bike so much for the last couple months has conditioned my legs and now they're a lot stronger. It was a small, but happy, victory.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Virtual Route 2
I really like this idea of a virtual route. (Thanks, again, Sarah!)
It doesn't really motivate me to actually exercise, I'm already pretty motivated, but it definitely motivates me to record how much I've exercised. Otherwise, I'd just huff and puff away and not know how far I'd gone, how many calories I'd burned, etc.
Here's my updated route:
Again, I know it's small, feel free to click on it to enlarge it.
Here's a rundown of stats, because it's fun for me:
Start date (of this section): January 29, 2009
# of days traveled: 11
Miles traveled: 74.1
Hours traveled: 5.25
Calories burned: 2022
Miles left to go 'til NYC: 2194.7
Please don't think that just because there were 11 days for each interval that I did it on purpose and will always have 11 days for each interval. It's totally a coincidence. Basically, I'll just do it when I have the time and inclination to go on Google Earth. :)
I noticed that I spent less time on my bike these 11 days than the previous 11 days. Huh. Good to know. My ideal is to bike in the morning and in the evening, but there were too many days that I only biked once. However, unlike last time, I didn't skip a single day - I rode my bike every day. Woohoo! Also, I'm going faster. What used to be my "all out" pace (I go as fast as I can for 3 minutes towards the end of my ride), is now my normal pace. I used to burn 120 calories for 20 minutes, now it's over 130.
Nice.
My goal for next time is to cross into Colorado!
It doesn't really motivate me to actually exercise, I'm already pretty motivated, but it definitely motivates me to record how much I've exercised. Otherwise, I'd just huff and puff away and not know how far I'd gone, how many calories I'd burned, etc.
Here's my updated route:
Again, I know it's small, feel free to click on it to enlarge it.
Here's a rundown of stats, because it's fun for me:
Start date (of this section): January 29, 2009
# of days traveled: 11
Miles traveled: 74.1
Hours traveled: 5.25
Calories burned: 2022
Miles left to go 'til NYC: 2194.7
Please don't think that just because there were 11 days for each interval that I did it on purpose and will always have 11 days for each interval. It's totally a coincidence. Basically, I'll just do it when I have the time and inclination to go on Google Earth. :)
I noticed that I spent less time on my bike these 11 days than the previous 11 days. Huh. Good to know. My ideal is to bike in the morning and in the evening, but there were too many days that I only biked once. However, unlike last time, I didn't skip a single day - I rode my bike every day. Woohoo! Also, I'm going faster. What used to be my "all out" pace (I go as fast as I can for 3 minutes towards the end of my ride), is now my normal pace. I used to burn 120 calories for 20 minutes, now it's over 130.
Nice.
My goal for next time is to cross into Colorado!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Virtual Route 1
My friend, Sarah, came up with the idea of tracking exercise by traveling a virtual route from one place to another. I loved it and asked if I could copy the idea; she benevolently said I could. My goal is to go from my home town to the Empire State Building in New York City. I started last Monday; it will be interesting to see how long it takes me to get there. Like Sarah, I'll be tracking whatever exercise I do. Though now I'm only riding my stationary bike, when the weather gets warmer I hope to walk and swim as well. And hike.
Here's my virtual route so far:
I know it's kind of hard to see, but you can click on it to see it better. If you want. In case you don't want to, here's a summary:
Here's my virtual route so far:
I know it's kind of hard to see, but you can click on it to see it better. If you want. In case you don't want to, here's a summary:
Start date: January 18, 2009
# of "travel" days: 11
Miles traveled: 87.2
Hours traveled: 6.25
Calories burned: 2343
Miles left to go: 2268.8
New York City, here I come!
# of "travel" days: 11
Miles traveled: 87.2
Hours traveled: 6.25
Calories burned: 2343
Miles left to go: 2268.8
New York City, here I come!
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