Sunday February 27, the day after the night before.....need I say more.
Yep last night was the long awaited 40th party and a good time was had by all (I think). To be honest I'm probably not the one to ask after my family made it their mission to have me taste one of every spirit in the upstairs bar. I'm not sure if I achieved that goal but I reckon I gave it a fair shake.
As for the missing weigh in result......I've decided to skip the weigh in this week as no good can really come from getting on the scales following my last 4 days. If I had to guess I think I'd be up somewhere between 2 and 4 kgs. I've decided to stay off the scales until next Saturday and I'm aiming to maintain the 116.9kg result from a week ago. With no more social events in the foreseeable future I'm aiming for a big March and I'm looking forward to seeing the other side of the 110kg barrier sometime soon.
I've picked up a second hand exercise bike off ebay and have positioned it behind the couch and I'm treating it like a surrogate couch. I'm splitting my TV viewing time between the couch and the bike to keep the old metabolism moving.
OK, I'm tired, still a bit hung over and ready for an early night, so I'll call it quits for now and pen another entry tomorrow night with some more positive news. Uni starts again tomorrow so its off to a lecture at 11am (I should be able to get up by then).
Until then,
P
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Happy Birthday to me!!!!!
Greetings loyal readers and welcome to the best day of the year. The day we stop to celebrate everything that is 'Me' (well I do at least). And a pretty good day it has been as well. So what have I been up to on my 40th Feb 24 on this planet.
Well, I rang in the birthday at midnight at the Dolphins Leagues club at Redcliffe in a fairly inebriated state. Yes I know it seems a bit strange that I would be hanging around on the peninsula at midnight on a school night but when Smeaton brothers get together strange things happen. I had accepted an invitation from the brothers to spend a fun filled evening at the Redcliffe Trots. Now, control your excitement I know what you're thinking. Why didn't I invite you all? Sorry it was a last minute decision to go. As it turned out I only managed to make it to the track at around 9pm after fulfilling my basketball coaching responsibilities. So as a team we kicked on at Dolphins and instituted a tried and true drinking game on the pokies to keep the evening rolling along.
It was a different, but enjoyable night with plenty of laughs and a good way to kick off the birthday. So then came the morning after..... Fortunately I felt pretty good considering the overindulgence of the previous evening and a quality Redcliffe hot breakfast including bacon and snags was just the ticket. A takeaway lunch and a rump steak from the pub for dinner completed my diet free birthday fare and wrapped up the day with a nice ribbon.
As you can see, I left the diet at home today and focused on guilty pleasures for the day and I'm quite happy to live with the consequences. I plan to have a much more sensible day tomorrow and even plan to get in an hour of exercise on the new purchase (ebay exercise bike) tomorrow. I'm having a day off from "The Wire" tomorrow to hang with the family and I'm really looking forward to the party on Saturday night.
I can't leave you today without letting you know how incredibly strong I've become in the last few weeks. During a workout on Tuesday I managed to punch the boxing bag off the ceiling with a vicious right cross. So I'm temporarily having to find alternates for my boxing sessions until I can manage a trip to Bunnings for a more heavy duty eye-bolt. I've attached a photo to prove my obscene strength.
Two days till weigh in and I'm fairly confident I'll achieve another first for the "Diary of a fat bastard". I reckon I may find a wee little weight gain but I'm pretty comfortable it'll only be a temporary setback. I think with my new found willpower and commitment I'll quickly bounce back from whatever I find on the dial this Saturday.
So until then.
Ciao for now.
P
Well, I rang in the birthday at midnight at the Dolphins Leagues club at Redcliffe in a fairly inebriated state. Yes I know it seems a bit strange that I would be hanging around on the peninsula at midnight on a school night but when Smeaton brothers get together strange things happen. I had accepted an invitation from the brothers to spend a fun filled evening at the Redcliffe Trots. Now, control your excitement I know what you're thinking. Why didn't I invite you all? Sorry it was a last minute decision to go. As it turned out I only managed to make it to the track at around 9pm after fulfilling my basketball coaching responsibilities. So as a team we kicked on at Dolphins and instituted a tried and true drinking game on the pokies to keep the evening rolling along.
It was a different, but enjoyable night with plenty of laughs and a good way to kick off the birthday. So then came the morning after..... Fortunately I felt pretty good considering the overindulgence of the previous evening and a quality Redcliffe hot breakfast including bacon and snags was just the ticket. A takeaway lunch and a rump steak from the pub for dinner completed my diet free birthday fare and wrapped up the day with a nice ribbon.
As you can see, I left the diet at home today and focused on guilty pleasures for the day and I'm quite happy to live with the consequences. I plan to have a much more sensible day tomorrow and even plan to get in an hour of exercise on the new purchase (ebay exercise bike) tomorrow. I'm having a day off from "The Wire" tomorrow to hang with the family and I'm really looking forward to the party on Saturday night.
I can't leave you today without letting you know how incredibly strong I've become in the last few weeks. During a workout on Tuesday I managed to punch the boxing bag off the ceiling with a vicious right cross. So I'm temporarily having to find alternates for my boxing sessions until I can manage a trip to Bunnings for a more heavy duty eye-bolt. I've attached a photo to prove my obscene strength.
Two days till weigh in and I'm fairly confident I'll achieve another first for the "Diary of a fat bastard". I reckon I may find a wee little weight gain but I'm pretty comfortable it'll only be a temporary setback. I think with my new found willpower and commitment I'll quickly bounce back from whatever I find on the dial this Saturday.
So until then.
Ciao for now.
P
Monday, February 21, 2011
Help I'm melting
Wow, what a couple of days here in Brisvegas. My southern guests will be glad that the cool change will have arrived by the time they get here. If yesterday was hot, then today was insane. Official weather observations had us topping out around 37 degrees but with the humidity the way it was it felt 40 plus for sure.
With the insane conditions prevailing I decided to avoid any outdoor activity and instead head to the PCYC to shoot some hoops and use the gym. I've recently discovered a perk to my volunteer coaching gig with the Dragons basketball club. As a coach I get free access to both the basketball courts and gym whenever I want, so today I took up the offer. I did about 1 1/2 hours on court and lost about 3kg in fluid I reckon (maybe not) but it was bloody hot. It's still a bit of a battle hobbling around on my totally buggered knee but I do love to get a basketball in my hands these days (it takes me back to my youth).
If you're wondering how I find the time to go to the gym during the day then allow me to explain. This is the final week of Uni break with classes beginning next Monday. I've kept very busy during the holidays doing 4/week long internships with the News Ltd and working for 'The Wire' but I deliberately kept this final week free to prepare for Uni and celebrate my birthday week in true style.
Relief has arrived at last this afternoon in the form of a cracking summer storm. At 3pm this afternoon it was as dark as 9pm and you knew we were in for a drenching. Today's thunder action was some of the most impressive I've ever experienced. I nearly had to change my shorts at one point when some lightening struck very close by and the ensuing thunder clap could have woken the dead. The positive result is a drop in temperature of about 15 degrees which is very welcome indeed.
So as I sit here tonight, settling in for a late night of World Cup action and listening to the rain on the tin roof, I'm feeling like my grand plan is coming together. I had a mini goal of 119kg by my party and subject to any massive blow-out when the siblings arrive to lead me astray I should come in well under that.
As promised enjoy the happy snap above of yours truly preparing to take on Mike Tyson.
And big shout-out to Danny who has officially become the first person to comment on this blog. I have changed my settings to enable anyone to comment regardless of whether or not you are a follower. So comment away, the more the merrier.
Till next we speak.
P
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Saturday night special
Well, here we are again, weigh in day and what a beautiful day it is.
Now I dropped a few hints a couple of days ago that I was going alright this week and I wasn't wrong. I can honestly say I was nearly perfect with my diet this week. Woo Hoo. Don't think for a second that it'll will be all smooth sailing from here but it's a bit of an achievement for me to last Sunday to Saturday without making one poor food choice.
So on to the results.
As of today I'm weighing in at a lazy 116.9kg, a huge, massive 4.9kg loss for the week.
Add to that, I've dropped my gut measurement to 119cm and it's all looking very good.
Now I think we should bear in mind last week's total was tainted by my Friday night brain explosion, but either way it's a damn good result.
So as I enter the 50th day of this journey I've dropped about 15 odd kilos and I'm feeling pretty good about it.
As a reward for my insanely good work I'm sitting here enjoying a lovely Cab Sav and Pepperoni Pizza (all in moderation though) while watching 3 footy games at the same time across three separate channels. Some serious remote control work going on here. Does it get any better than that.
Just heard via my Mum that my brother-in-law will be trekking north for my birthday next weekend. That means every one of my siblings will be there to help celebrate my milestone. It gives me a warm fuzzy feeling to think they all care that much. Thanks guy's and gal's.
Well the 80's playlists for the party are complete and I reckon anyone between 30something and 50 will enjoy the mix. Since I can't name too many outside this age bracket that are coming we shouldn't have a music revolt at any time.
I've had a couple of nice yarns in the paper this week as well including a centre page spread of an interview I did with Tony Mott the rock and roll photographer. It was in today's "etc" lift out if anyone bothers to read the weekend Courier Mail.
So with this fantastic week now chiseled into the history books it's time to look ahead to the birthday week. I've achieved more than I could have hoped for in the first 50 days of this challenge so I won't be beating myself up if I enjoy a bit of the good life with family and friends this coming week.
Thanks to those who have signed on as followers to the blog although its a little lonely for the nine of you. I know others are reading as I get feedback through other mediums so please sign up and follow and make me feel more popular. The more followers the harder I'll work! And don't be afraid to tell other people about it. It would be a real thrill if someone I've never met signed on to follow.
Cheers for now
P
P.S. tomorrow I'll treat you all to a photo of my work downstairs on the heavy bag. Don't miss it!
Now I dropped a few hints a couple of days ago that I was going alright this week and I wasn't wrong. I can honestly say I was nearly perfect with my diet this week. Woo Hoo. Don't think for a second that it'll will be all smooth sailing from here but it's a bit of an achievement for me to last Sunday to Saturday without making one poor food choice.
So on to the results.
As of today I'm weighing in at a lazy 116.9kg, a huge, massive 4.9kg loss for the week.
Add to that, I've dropped my gut measurement to 119cm and it's all looking very good.
Now I think we should bear in mind last week's total was tainted by my Friday night brain explosion, but either way it's a damn good result.
So as I enter the 50th day of this journey I've dropped about 15 odd kilos and I'm feeling pretty good about it.
As a reward for my insanely good work I'm sitting here enjoying a lovely Cab Sav and Pepperoni Pizza (all in moderation though) while watching 3 footy games at the same time across three separate channels. Some serious remote control work going on here. Does it get any better than that.
Just heard via my Mum that my brother-in-law will be trekking north for my birthday next weekend. That means every one of my siblings will be there to help celebrate my milestone. It gives me a warm fuzzy feeling to think they all care that much. Thanks guy's and gal's.
Well the 80's playlists for the party are complete and I reckon anyone between 30something and 50 will enjoy the mix. Since I can't name too many outside this age bracket that are coming we shouldn't have a music revolt at any time.
I've had a couple of nice yarns in the paper this week as well including a centre page spread of an interview I did with Tony Mott the rock and roll photographer. It was in today's "etc" lift out if anyone bothers to read the weekend Courier Mail.
So with this fantastic week now chiseled into the history books it's time to look ahead to the birthday week. I've achieved more than I could have hoped for in the first 50 days of this challenge so I won't be beating myself up if I enjoy a bit of the good life with family and friends this coming week.
Thanks to those who have signed on as followers to the blog although its a little lonely for the nine of you. I know others are reading as I get feedback through other mediums so please sign up and follow and make me feel more popular. The more followers the harder I'll work! And don't be afraid to tell other people about it. It would be a real thrill if someone I've never met signed on to follow.
Cheers for now
P
P.S. tomorrow I'll treat you all to a photo of my work downstairs on the heavy bag. Don't miss it!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Routine, routine
According to Dictionary.com, Routine is: "a customary or regular course of procedure".
It is here that I am discovering the secret to weight loss success. Since my weekend shenanigans I've gone a bit army-like. Let me explain. I've always found that a couple of days of poor choices can unravel weeks of good work so last Sunday I kicked back into the eating pattern I'd set for the last few weeks. Despite some of the old fashioned cravings returning Sunday and Monday I managed to hold firm and walk a straight line.
On top of this I've cracked back into some exercise since Monday and not surprisingly the hard work is beginning to bear fruit. I had a sneaky look at the scales last night and got a nice surprise. Unfortunately for you all though, I think I'll keep it under my hat until the Saturday weigh in. Yeah I know.... "boo", "hiss" and all that jazz, but I'm typing and you're reading so bad luck.
So back to the initial theme, routine. I know this isn't rocket science and many of you probably think this is grade one stuff when living a normal healthy life but for me this is an important realisation. I've tended to avoid routine in my life preferring to go with the flow. The problem with living "on the run" though, is I have rarely considered the days before or the days to come in my daily decision making process. Hence, one bad day rolls into another and another and another.
The beauty of my new-found decision to embrace routine, is the more I do it, the easier it becomes to do. This is a key ingredient to long term success when trying to institute change so I think it's one of the keys to this whole process for me. I'll do my best from here on in to stick to my routine.
Finally, Saturday weeks party is all booked. Food confirmed, bar tab set (although I'm sure it won't last long knowing the crowd that is attending) and eighties music playlists well under way. I'm sure it will be a great night for all and as far as my new-found "fat bastard" journey goes I'll make this promise regarding my behaviour on Saturday night.
You only turn 40 once so FUN will be the only journey I'll be on come Saturday night.
P
It is here that I am discovering the secret to weight loss success. Since my weekend shenanigans I've gone a bit army-like. Let me explain. I've always found that a couple of days of poor choices can unravel weeks of good work so last Sunday I kicked back into the eating pattern I'd set for the last few weeks. Despite some of the old fashioned cravings returning Sunday and Monday I managed to hold firm and walk a straight line.
On top of this I've cracked back into some exercise since Monday and not surprisingly the hard work is beginning to bear fruit. I had a sneaky look at the scales last night and got a nice surprise. Unfortunately for you all though, I think I'll keep it under my hat until the Saturday weigh in. Yeah I know.... "boo", "hiss" and all that jazz, but I'm typing and you're reading so bad luck.
So back to the initial theme, routine. I know this isn't rocket science and many of you probably think this is grade one stuff when living a normal healthy life but for me this is an important realisation. I've tended to avoid routine in my life preferring to go with the flow. The problem with living "on the run" though, is I have rarely considered the days before or the days to come in my daily decision making process. Hence, one bad day rolls into another and another and another.
The beauty of my new-found decision to embrace routine, is the more I do it, the easier it becomes to do. This is a key ingredient to long term success when trying to institute change so I think it's one of the keys to this whole process for me. I'll do my best from here on in to stick to my routine.
Finally, Saturday weeks party is all booked. Food confirmed, bar tab set (although I'm sure it won't last long knowing the crowd that is attending) and eighties music playlists well under way. I'm sure it will be a great night for all and as far as my new-found "fat bastard" journey goes I'll make this promise regarding my behaviour on Saturday night.
You only turn 40 once so FUN will be the only journey I'll be on come Saturday night.
P
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
OOP'S
Sorry Folks, I've just realised I haven't posted since Saturday morning. Shame on me.
Pretty disappointing result last week, wasn't it. But as I'm sure you're aware I had my little blow-out on Friday night and paid the price on the scales the following morning. But it gets worse. Saturday night I attended a 40th party and proceeded to fully immerse myself in the festivities. I did manage to limit my hors d'oeurve's intake and also concentrated on polishing off the supply of quality red wine rather than a thousand beers. Small mercy's I know but its better than nothing.
So of course after such a weekend of frivolity it was time to knuckle down and get the train back on the tracks, so to speak. So far I've been pretty successful at that. I'm pretty confident I can nudge under the 120kg barrier by Saturday and reach or exceed that mini goal of 119kg by my party.
This last month or so certainly has been a path to self discovery and Sunday was a good example. It's one thing to fall off the wagon for a night or two but it's the day after that has often been a killer for my waist line in the past. You know that hung-over feeling that lasts all day and only seems to be kept at bay by greasy food and regular a Coke injection (Coca-cola that is). So on the back of two crazy nights, Sunday was always going to be a big challenge.
Success! I got through. OK, maybe 1 can of coke, but that's a win for me. So as I sit here tapping away at the keyboard on Tuesday morning I've almost recovered back to my pre-Friday weight and it's onward and upward from here.
On the home front Naomi headed off this morning for four days at Band Camp (and no she doesn't play the flute!), so I get an unexpected fathering break for a few days. I'm looking forward to my 40th party in a week or so and with all my siblings now attending it's bound to be a cracking night.
I'm putting together some music playlist's for the party. I've decided to theme the music 80's as it really was the soundtrack to my youth. I figure almost everyone attending is in a similar boat so it should get a few people up on the dance floor. So if you have any must play requests or songs that no 80's collection is complete without please feel free to comment here or drop me a line on facebook.
I've included a photo of me and brother Mark from the party on Saturday night. Dress for the evening was not-surprisingly 80's so I decided to channel Jake Blues and as expected there was already a few Miami Vice outfits there.
P
Pretty disappointing result last week, wasn't it. But as I'm sure you're aware I had my little blow-out on Friday night and paid the price on the scales the following morning. But it gets worse. Saturday night I attended a 40th party and proceeded to fully immerse myself in the festivities. I did manage to limit my hors d'oeurve's intake and also concentrated on polishing off the supply of quality red wine rather than a thousand beers. Small mercy's I know but its better than nothing.
So of course after such a weekend of frivolity it was time to knuckle down and get the train back on the tracks, so to speak. So far I've been pretty successful at that. I'm pretty confident I can nudge under the 120kg barrier by Saturday and reach or exceed that mini goal of 119kg by my party.
This last month or so certainly has been a path to self discovery and Sunday was a good example. It's one thing to fall off the wagon for a night or two but it's the day after that has often been a killer for my waist line in the past. You know that hung-over feeling that lasts all day and only seems to be kept at bay by greasy food and regular a Coke injection (Coca-cola that is). So on the back of two crazy nights, Sunday was always going to be a big challenge.
Success! I got through. OK, maybe 1 can of coke, but that's a win for me. So as I sit here tapping away at the keyboard on Tuesday morning I've almost recovered back to my pre-Friday weight and it's onward and upward from here.
On the home front Naomi headed off this morning for four days at Band Camp (and no she doesn't play the flute!), so I get an unexpected fathering break for a few days. I'm looking forward to my 40th party in a week or so and with all my siblings now attending it's bound to be a cracking night.
I'm putting together some music playlist's for the party. I've decided to theme the music 80's as it really was the soundtrack to my youth. I figure almost everyone attending is in a similar boat so it should get a few people up on the dance floor. So if you have any must play requests or songs that no 80's collection is complete without please feel free to comment here or drop me a line on facebook.
I've included a photo of me and brother Mark from the party on Saturday night. Dress for the evening was not-surprisingly 80's so I decided to channel Jake Blues and as expected there was already a few Miami Vice outfits there.
P
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Speedbump
Well I guess it was bound to happen sooner or later.
You may remember very early in this blog I lamented the Saturday morning weigh-in routine because it would curtail my Friday arvo beer sessions. So far I've managed to stay on the straight and narrow and avoid any pre-weekend blow-outs.
Well that was until yesterday.
Yup, after nearly a week of treating my body like a temple, last night I treated it with more disdain than Mubarak did with the Israeli people. It began with a few beers at the pub, it ramped up with a bottle of Cab Sav and a dinner that could only be described as a 'Festival of Meat' and it finished around 1am by polishing off a couple of Guinness' left of from St Patty's Day. Overall, a job well done I think.
Now I'm not going to whinge and moan about how I stuffed up. I reckon its been coming for a few weeks. So I'll climb back up on the wagon and get back to work I guess.
The somewhat sad thing is I reckon I was looking at a 2-3kg loss this week prior to my ode to exorbitance. Ces't la vie.
So there you have it. I'm not perfect after all (just in case you were confused).
I remain on track for a mini goal of 119kg by my B'Day party in two weeks though. I'm determined to achieve that one so I'll file yesterday under 'Sillyness' and move forward.
OK, better go and do some exercise now, I think I owe my body that at least.
P
You may remember very early in this blog I lamented the Saturday morning weigh-in routine because it would curtail my Friday arvo beer sessions. So far I've managed to stay on the straight and narrow and avoid any pre-weekend blow-outs.
Well that was until yesterday.
Yup, after nearly a week of treating my body like a temple, last night I treated it with more disdain than Mubarak did with the Israeli people. It began with a few beers at the pub, it ramped up with a bottle of Cab Sav and a dinner that could only be described as a 'Festival of Meat' and it finished around 1am by polishing off a couple of Guinness' left of from St Patty's Day. Overall, a job well done I think.
Now I'm not going to whinge and moan about how I stuffed up. I reckon its been coming for a few weeks. So I'll climb back up on the wagon and get back to work I guess.
The somewhat sad thing is I reckon I was looking at a 2-3kg loss this week prior to my ode to exorbitance. Ces't la vie.
So there you have it. I'm not perfect after all (just in case you were confused).
I remain on track for a mini goal of 119kg by my B'Day party in two weeks though. I'm determined to achieve that one so I'll file yesterday under 'Sillyness' and move forward.
OK, better go and do some exercise now, I think I owe my body that at least.
P
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Meanwhile.... back at Camp Smeato
Greetings loyal readers,
Well it's another day forward on the path to lightenment. (get it, lightenment....oh never mind). Anyway, sometimes it seems like I have very little to share with you on the agreed subject, but I'll try anyway. OK last two days, got up, went to work, ate heaps less than I used to, did some exercise and came home and went to bed. See what I mean, its a little bland isn't it.
Watched the Biggest Fatty tonight. What a bunch of bloody sooks. Whinging, crying every time the trainer says do a push up. For god's sake, harden up losers. Wish I had a chef, personal trainer and multi million dollar training facility. But I don't so it will remain all about will-power here a Camp Smeato.
Just when I think I've beaten the cravings I have days like today when I feel like I haven't achieved anything on an emotional level. However, I've managed to stay strong despite one devil juice (coke) with lunch. Matched it with fish and steamed vegies from the News Ltd cafeteria so a pretty successful outcome in the face of serious hotbox temptation. I guess it just confirms my decision to take a year to achieve this thing. It may just take that long to get in a positive routine.
On a personal note it been a positive week. I've spent four days in features at the Courier Mail. Totally different experience to that of news production and very enjoyable. I wrote about five yarns which will run over the next few weeks and got to interview Australia's leading Rock'n'Roll photographer, Tony Mott. He was good value and after 30 years touring with the Rolling stones, Silverchair, Nirvana and many others he had some seriously good stories.
Tomorrow I start a one day a week gig as a reporter for The Wire, a nationally syndicated current affairs radio program. It broadcasts to 160 community radio stations around the country and will give me some great broadcast experience (and no Dermut I won't use my ABC voice).
Finally I have a meeting with the Brisbane Broncos tomorrow to confirm a match day job with the media department. I will have to do match reports for both the U20's and 1st grade games and player interviews. The content will appears on the Bronco's website. I'm seriously hoping I can fit in Uni this semester with all my work experience.
Anyway, it's late and I have an early start tomorrow so that'll do for now.
see you next time.
P
Well it's another day forward on the path to lightenment. (get it, lightenment....oh never mind). Anyway, sometimes it seems like I have very little to share with you on the agreed subject, but I'll try anyway. OK last two days, got up, went to work, ate heaps less than I used to, did some exercise and came home and went to bed. See what I mean, its a little bland isn't it.
Watched the Biggest Fatty tonight. What a bunch of bloody sooks. Whinging, crying every time the trainer says do a push up. For god's sake, harden up losers. Wish I had a chef, personal trainer and multi million dollar training facility. But I don't so it will remain all about will-power here a Camp Smeato.
Just when I think I've beaten the cravings I have days like today when I feel like I haven't achieved anything on an emotional level. However, I've managed to stay strong despite one devil juice (coke) with lunch. Matched it with fish and steamed vegies from the News Ltd cafeteria so a pretty successful outcome in the face of serious hotbox temptation. I guess it just confirms my decision to take a year to achieve this thing. It may just take that long to get in a positive routine.
On a personal note it been a positive week. I've spent four days in features at the Courier Mail. Totally different experience to that of news production and very enjoyable. I wrote about five yarns which will run over the next few weeks and got to interview Australia's leading Rock'n'Roll photographer, Tony Mott. He was good value and after 30 years touring with the Rolling stones, Silverchair, Nirvana and many others he had some seriously good stories.
Tomorrow I start a one day a week gig as a reporter for The Wire, a nationally syndicated current affairs radio program. It broadcasts to 160 community radio stations around the country and will give me some great broadcast experience (and no Dermut I won't use my ABC voice).
Finally I have a meeting with the Brisbane Broncos tomorrow to confirm a match day job with the media department. I will have to do match reports for both the U20's and 1st grade games and player interviews. The content will appears on the Bronco's website. I'm seriously hoping I can fit in Uni this semester with all my work experience.
Anyway, it's late and I have an early start tomorrow so that'll do for now.
see you next time.
P
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Still Alive and Kicking
Sorry for the temporary disappearing act folks. Early mornings and late nights seem to be a recipe for Blog evasion.
But as you can see (or read) I am still kicking along the path of great shrinkyness. I'm definately having a good week as far as the diet goes. It seems the structure of having a job to go to only makes things a bit more simple. I find myself thinking less about what my next meal is going to be when I have other things occupying my mind.
Skipped exercise today, I think 6 consecutive days has caught up with me, so I decided to give myself a day off. I'm on the verge of leaving the dreaded 120kg's plus behind me. I think I'm half a chance to weigh in somewhere in the 119's if I can hold off any brain snaps in the next four days. It will be nice to achieve that mini goal and I can set my sights on the 110kg mark.
The 40th celebration is only two short weeks away and I'm determined to head to that party in the best shape possible. I have another party to attend this Saturday night so I'll have to remain stoic in the face of volumes of alcohol and hors d'oeuvre's.
On another positive note my volume of work experience just doubled. It will be good for my CV but crap for my social life. I will be spending most Friday's this year working for a national syndicated current affairs radio program called The Wire. I will get an opportunity to choose, interview, write and produce my own 4-5 minute story for live Friday broadcast. The broadcast experience will be invaluable. In addition, it looks like I've secured a weekend position with the Brisbane Bronco's media department. My job will be to attend all home matches and produce match reports and player interviews for both the Under 020's and first grade games. These stories will be posted on the clubs web-page.
I can feel a nervous breakdown coming on when Uni gets added to the mix, but what the hell this is a make or break year for me getting the right first job. The most exciting news is I've managed to convince ABC grandstand to consider me for a 100 hour intern-ship this semester. They've never done it before but they seem to be coming around to the idea, so here's hoping. Considering it fits all the criteria for my chosen career path I seriously hope the accept me.
Anyway that's enough crapping on for now. Those of you living in Brisbane, check out the Courier Mail over the next week or so. I've been knocking out some feature articles for Radar, the pop-culture page. They have to be funny so I can confirm they took ages to write and if you don't laugh I'll be highly offended.
P
But as you can see (or read) I am still kicking along the path of great shrinkyness. I'm definately having a good week as far as the diet goes. It seems the structure of having a job to go to only makes things a bit more simple. I find myself thinking less about what my next meal is going to be when I have other things occupying my mind.
Skipped exercise today, I think 6 consecutive days has caught up with me, so I decided to give myself a day off. I'm on the verge of leaving the dreaded 120kg's plus behind me. I think I'm half a chance to weigh in somewhere in the 119's if I can hold off any brain snaps in the next four days. It will be nice to achieve that mini goal and I can set my sights on the 110kg mark.
The 40th celebration is only two short weeks away and I'm determined to head to that party in the best shape possible. I have another party to attend this Saturday night so I'll have to remain stoic in the face of volumes of alcohol and hors d'oeuvre's.
On another positive note my volume of work experience just doubled. It will be good for my CV but crap for my social life. I will be spending most Friday's this year working for a national syndicated current affairs radio program called The Wire. I will get an opportunity to choose, interview, write and produce my own 4-5 minute story for live Friday broadcast. The broadcast experience will be invaluable. In addition, it looks like I've secured a weekend position with the Brisbane Bronco's media department. My job will be to attend all home matches and produce match reports and player interviews for both the Under 020's and first grade games. These stories will be posted on the clubs web-page.
I can feel a nervous breakdown coming on when Uni gets added to the mix, but what the hell this is a make or break year for me getting the right first job. The most exciting news is I've managed to convince ABC grandstand to consider me for a 100 hour intern-ship this semester. They've never done it before but they seem to be coming around to the idea, so here's hoping. Considering it fits all the criteria for my chosen career path I seriously hope the accept me.
Anyway that's enough crapping on for now. Those of you living in Brisbane, check out the Courier Mail over the next week or so. I've been knocking out some feature articles for Radar, the pop-culture page. They have to be funny so I can confirm they took ages to write and if you don't laugh I'll be highly offended.
P
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Sat-ur-day night ....doodoodoo..doodoo..doodoodoo
A nice quiet night in.
Ahhhhhh.
After last Saturday night's shenanigans and two upcoming Saturday night 40th's this month, I felt it was best to have a quiet weekend at home.
Mission accomplished
I'm planning to be very strict this week with the diet to balance out the upcoming party time. I've been gradually increasing my exercise routine and am now doing around 5-6 days a week for 45-90 minutes depending on the activity. I'm definitely feeling better for it and the weight continues to come off.
As per my promise to myself at the start of this journey, I went to the movies today and enjoyed some chippies and a soft drink. I feel I've been doing the right thing most of the time and after all its all about balance isn't it.
By the way I've been trying out that Pure Blonde low-carb beer. Trying a bit of everything, you know. Well, quite simply it's crap. Really crap. So that experiment is out the window. Think I'll just have to drink less and enjoy the one's I like.
It's back to the newspaper on Monday for a week in features. I'm looking forward to this one as I'm yet to have a decent feature published. So here's hoping I can build a good rapport with the editorial staff and get a few opportunities for a by-line.
Finally, for little bit of light relief I've decided to introduce a JOKE OF THE DAY. I can't promise they'll all be funny but at least they'll take the focus off my boring writing. So here goes.
A bloke meets a hooker in a bar. She says, "This is your lucky night. I’ve got a special game for you. I’ll do absolutely anything you want for $300, as long as you can say it in three words." The guy replies, "Hey, why not?" He pull's his wallet out of his pocket, and one at a time lays three hundred-dollar notes on the bar, and says, slowly: "Paint…my…house."
See ya
P
Ahhhhhh.
After last Saturday night's shenanigans and two upcoming Saturday night 40th's this month, I felt it was best to have a quiet weekend at home.
Mission accomplished
I'm planning to be very strict this week with the diet to balance out the upcoming party time. I've been gradually increasing my exercise routine and am now doing around 5-6 days a week for 45-90 minutes depending on the activity. I'm definitely feeling better for it and the weight continues to come off.
As per my promise to myself at the start of this journey, I went to the movies today and enjoyed some chippies and a soft drink. I feel I've been doing the right thing most of the time and after all its all about balance isn't it.
By the way I've been trying out that Pure Blonde low-carb beer. Trying a bit of everything, you know. Well, quite simply it's crap. Really crap. So that experiment is out the window. Think I'll just have to drink less and enjoy the one's I like.
It's back to the newspaper on Monday for a week in features. I'm looking forward to this one as I'm yet to have a decent feature published. So here's hoping I can build a good rapport with the editorial staff and get a few opportunities for a by-line.
Finally, for little bit of light relief I've decided to introduce a JOKE OF THE DAY. I can't promise they'll all be funny but at least they'll take the focus off my boring writing. So here goes.
A bloke meets a hooker in a bar. She says, "This is your lucky night. I’ve got a special game for you. I’ll do absolutely anything you want for $300, as long as you can say it in three words." The guy replies, "Hey, why not?" He pull's his wallet out of his pocket, and one at a time lays three hundred-dollar notes on the bar, and says, slowly: "Paint…my…house."
See ya
P
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Change of title
Hey all.
Just a quick note to let you know I've changed the Blog title around.
I've been thinking about it for a while and think the Fat Bastard line is more catchy and accurate.
So there you have it. If you're logging on though Facebook it won't matter just keep clicking the link.
Otherwise save the above address for future reference.
Till next time.
P
Just a quick note to let you know I've changed the Blog title around.
I've been thinking about it for a while and think the Fat Bastard line is more catchy and accurate.
So there you have it. If you're logging on though Facebook it won't matter just keep clicking the link.
Otherwise save the above address for future reference.
Till next time.
P
Return of the couch potato
What a great day. I firmly believe that every now and then everyone should take a day, ignore the rest of the world and do what makes them happy. So today I did.
This morning I had to take my car in for a service which basically meant I was house. I could, of course have ridden my bike but after yesterday's marathon that was not on the agenda. So instead I had a couch day.
I regularly review the upcoming movies on Foxtel and if one of my old favorites or something I've wanted to see appears, I record it to view at another time. Today was that time.
The day began with an old favorite of mine, Hoosiers. A basketball flick set in in Indiana in the 1950's. It stars Gene Hackman as a washed up ex-college coach who returns to coaching by taking on a small town high school team with only 64 enrolled students. Needless to say, against all the odds they manage to win the Indiana state championship in a feel good story. Dennis Hopper plays the town drunk with a hidden talent of basketball know-how. I've always been a big Dennis Hopper fan and I think this is one of his best ever roles.
Next a short interruption to do some washing and eat a late breaky. I had Breakfast muffins. Yum. I make these sometimes and always wonder why I don't do them more often. Simple really. Slice of bread, crusts cut of and rolled flat. Next fold bread into muffin tray. Next slice some shortcut bacon into long strips about 10mm wide and lay across the bread inside the muffin mould. Crack an egg on top of the bacon, sprinkle with mixed herbs and grated cheese of your choice and place in a 175 degree oven for 15-20 mins. Wolah, breakfast. Like I said yum.
Sorry, got a bit off the track there but breakfast was nice. Next cab off the rank was an old Arnie classic, Total Recall. Bit out there, a little bit stupid, but perfect for a day on the couch.
Another break to give my old EH Holden a run around the block, and it was time for movie three. I really should get off my arse and get that car registered, then I wouldn't have been stuck home all day. But I digress. Movie three was another Michael Moore documentary, Capitalism: A love story. For those of you that haven't seen it (this was my first time) its a continuation of his attack on corporate America. I know he get a bad wrap sometimes for the way he plays up his angles for effect but I think his messages are pretty sound. Anyway I enjoyed it.
Time to pick up the car. Three hundred bucks later and I'm halfway though the final movie of the day. Now I've seen bits of this film but never the whole thing. In part, this flick was one of the factors that led to this blog so I figured I should watch it from start to finish. Julie & Julia. Now before anyone says it, yes its a chick flick. But be fair I do have a thing for Amy Adams so that makes it OK doesn't it.
Love to tell you more about it but I'm only 30 minutes in and have stopped to write this. See how inspiring it is.
So that's it. A quality day on the couch.
Now your probably asking what the bloody hell does this have to do with my weight loss journey. So in the words of Jules Winnfield "Well allow me to retort"! I've always loved a couch day whether it be sport, movies or whatever (who really needs a reason). Traditionally though, these days aren't complete without a healthy serving of soft drink, chips and/or chocolate and more often than not, a greasy lunch.
But not today! Water, fruit and a light dinner are all that accompanied this lazy day. So there I told you it was relevant. While I didn't do any 'official' exercise today, I did get in about an hour or so of WII action in my 'sunroom sauna', tennis and baseball to be precise so I did get a bit of a sweat up. Weak I know but better than nothing.
So all in all a great day. Tomorrow is a new day and the couch is off limits, so in between some errands and shopping I think I'll give the bike another hit. Maybe early though, I reckon.
OK, it's back to the chick flick, I can feel a roast duck coming up.
P
This morning I had to take my car in for a service which basically meant I was house. I could, of course have ridden my bike but after yesterday's marathon that was not on the agenda. So instead I had a couch day.
I regularly review the upcoming movies on Foxtel and if one of my old favorites or something I've wanted to see appears, I record it to view at another time. Today was that time.
The day began with an old favorite of mine, Hoosiers. A basketball flick set in in Indiana in the 1950's. It stars Gene Hackman as a washed up ex-college coach who returns to coaching by taking on a small town high school team with only 64 enrolled students. Needless to say, against all the odds they manage to win the Indiana state championship in a feel good story. Dennis Hopper plays the town drunk with a hidden talent of basketball know-how. I've always been a big Dennis Hopper fan and I think this is one of his best ever roles.
Next a short interruption to do some washing and eat a late breaky. I had Breakfast muffins. Yum. I make these sometimes and always wonder why I don't do them more often. Simple really. Slice of bread, crusts cut of and rolled flat. Next fold bread into muffin tray. Next slice some shortcut bacon into long strips about 10mm wide and lay across the bread inside the muffin mould. Crack an egg on top of the bacon, sprinkle with mixed herbs and grated cheese of your choice and place in a 175 degree oven for 15-20 mins. Wolah, breakfast. Like I said yum.
Sorry, got a bit off the track there but breakfast was nice. Next cab off the rank was an old Arnie classic, Total Recall. Bit out there, a little bit stupid, but perfect for a day on the couch.
Another break to give my old EH Holden a run around the block, and it was time for movie three. I really should get off my arse and get that car registered, then I wouldn't have been stuck home all day. But I digress. Movie three was another Michael Moore documentary, Capitalism: A love story. For those of you that haven't seen it (this was my first time) its a continuation of his attack on corporate America. I know he get a bad wrap sometimes for the way he plays up his angles for effect but I think his messages are pretty sound. Anyway I enjoyed it.
Time to pick up the car. Three hundred bucks later and I'm halfway though the final movie of the day. Now I've seen bits of this film but never the whole thing. In part, this flick was one of the factors that led to this blog so I figured I should watch it from start to finish. Julie & Julia. Now before anyone says it, yes its a chick flick. But be fair I do have a thing for Amy Adams so that makes it OK doesn't it.
Love to tell you more about it but I'm only 30 minutes in and have stopped to write this. See how inspiring it is.
So that's it. A quality day on the couch.
Now your probably asking what the bloody hell does this have to do with my weight loss journey. So in the words of Jules Winnfield "Well allow me to retort"! I've always loved a couch day whether it be sport, movies or whatever (who really needs a reason). Traditionally though, these days aren't complete without a healthy serving of soft drink, chips and/or chocolate and more often than not, a greasy lunch.
But not today! Water, fruit and a light dinner are all that accompanied this lazy day. So there I told you it was relevant. While I didn't do any 'official' exercise today, I did get in about an hour or so of WII action in my 'sunroom sauna', tennis and baseball to be precise so I did get a bit of a sweat up. Weak I know but better than nothing.
So all in all a great day. Tomorrow is a new day and the couch is off limits, so in between some errands and shopping I think I'll give the bike another hit. Maybe early though, I reckon.
OK, it's back to the chick flick, I can feel a roast duck coming up.
P
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Phew what a day
Well that was some sort of day. Of course I wasn't aware or prepared for that fact when I set off for a ride this morning at 10am. Today was a shocker. While I know my friends down south have been sweltering, the conditions here today were freakish. It only got to about 33 degrees but the humidity never dropped below 90 per cent all day. It's still high eighties now at 10pm local time.
So what did yours truly choose to do on such a day. Go for a long bloody ride of course (what a clown). I rode today to the pool and back and wedged a 30 minute swim in between. Biggest problem with this plan is that there's no public pool anywhere near here so I rode to Newmarket around 30km round trip on the bike path. Holy crap was I stuffed after that. I think I might check the weather forecast before attempting that again. On the positive side I may have dropped a kilo today after that marathon
I've been a bit of a Nazi with with what I've eaten since my weekend blowout and with my Lance Armstrong like training routine I may still record a decent number this week.
I think I've reached the peak of the hill regarding cravings though. The last few days to a week I've felt less frustrated with cravings for crap food. It feels pretty good to not head to the drive through for lunch daily and fruit is making a popular comeback in my life YEY.
Overall things are good today, though my quads may argue that point tomorrow.
As I sit here now glued to the box watching the approaching cyclone up north I can't help but feel that as a state we must have walked under a ladder, tripped over a black cat and dropped the mirror we were carrying. It's hard to believe these disasters keep coming on the back of one another.
My thoughts go out to everyone in the Far North and I hope when I get up in the morning things aren't as bad as predicted.
P
So what did yours truly choose to do on such a day. Go for a long bloody ride of course (what a clown). I rode today to the pool and back and wedged a 30 minute swim in between. Biggest problem with this plan is that there's no public pool anywhere near here so I rode to Newmarket around 30km round trip on the bike path. Holy crap was I stuffed after that. I think I might check the weather forecast before attempting that again. On the positive side I may have dropped a kilo today after that marathon
I've been a bit of a Nazi with with what I've eaten since my weekend blowout and with my Lance Armstrong like training routine I may still record a decent number this week.
I think I've reached the peak of the hill regarding cravings though. The last few days to a week I've felt less frustrated with cravings for crap food. It feels pretty good to not head to the drive through for lunch daily and fruit is making a popular comeback in my life YEY.
Overall things are good today, though my quads may argue that point tomorrow.
As I sit here now glued to the box watching the approaching cyclone up north I can't help but feel that as a state we must have walked under a ladder, tripped over a black cat and dropped the mirror we were carrying. It's hard to believe these disasters keep coming on the back of one another.
My thoughts go out to everyone in the Far North and I hope when I get up in the morning things aren't as bad as predicted.
P
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)