Recent information

I was so excited to read about the amazing successes in the recent ultra races! I mean, who wouldn’t be impressed by John Taylor’s incredible 59 hours and 11 minutes at Arrowhead 135? It’s incredible to think about how far he’s come and how much courage it takes to keep going when you’re at the back of the pack. It’s truly inspiring! I hope he gives a report about his race. Karen is a bit of a down-to-earth person, but she’s still incredibly talented. She finished the Rocky Racoon 100 in 27:45:02, which is an amazing time. Wayne Nelson, on the other hand, was a bit more competitive and finished the 50-mile race in 12:16:58. But he didn’t give up on Karen and went back to support her. It’s clear that both of them are hard workers and that their success is a result of their dedication and perseverance.

I still need to weigh myself, but I’m more focused on my workouts and diet at the moment. I’m up to 45-60 minutes on the bike at lunch, 60 minutes on the elliptical at least four days a week, and three days of weightlifting. I feel stronger, but my clothes fit differently. I got a hug and someone said I was “less round,” but I’m not sure if that was a compliment. I took it as a compliment, though. I’ll keep pushing myself, and I think I’m becoming more comfortable each week. I’ll extend my workouts by 5-10% and let the rest take its course.

Guess what? I got a call from an old friend I hadn’t seen in ages! She left a voicemail at my old workplace when I switched to a new phone a few years back. She didn’t have my new number, but she remembered where I worked. I called her back, and she filled me in on all the exciting stuff in her life. She recently got engaged! Remember when we met in 2006? She was in a long-term relationship, and I tried to encourage her to explore other options because she seemed really unhappy. Well, she met her fiancé in 2008, and she’s so happy now! She’s also doing really well at her job and still wants to have kids. But as we talked, I couldn’t help but feel a little sad amidst all the happiness.

She spoke of her father’s hospitalization after Christmas due to lung cancer (Mesothelioma). A contractor, he’d demolished asbestos-filled structures before the danger was known. Angry that he didn’t fight for life, she regretted her words and left the room when he passed. Crying, she expressed sadness about her words and his loss of will to fight. This left me speechless. I usually have an opinion, but this made me think.

Given my advanced age and the imminent growth of my child (who is soon to be 21), I have found myself contemplating the challenges faced by parents like myself. I shared with her that one of the most arduous periods in the lives of many parents is witnessing the remarkable transformation of their children into well-adjusted adults while simultaneously grappling with the realization that our involvement in their lives may eventually come to an end. I emphasized that parenting has been an experience that simultaneously brings immense frustration and profound fulfillment.

In response to my inquiry about her father’s wisdom, she expressed her admiration for his intelligence and compassion. Subsequently, I posed a hypothetical scenario: if her father were participating in a 100-mile race, would he be able to discern when it had concluded? Furthermore, if he desired to discontinue the race, would she be permitted to address him in a manner that might motivate him to complete it? It is important to note that some of these suggestions may not be the most flattering.

She expressed that he possessed a profound understanding of his physical well-being and capabilities. Subsequently, I inquired about her reasons for questioning his decision to cease fighting cancer, given his knowledge of her limitations and inability to comprehend the situation. I informed her that I frequently encounter such individuals who have demonstrated remarkable resilience in battling a disease. At some point, they attain a state of knowledge and acceptance of their journey. He was aware that his decision would likely cause distress to those who loved him, leading me to believe that the words he left behind were not intended to cause harm, but rather to convey his understanding. After all, he was a wise man.

I requested that she look in the mirror and smile. Her father was present, and she needed to be joyful about her upcoming marriage and the prospect of parenthood. It would be an extraordinary experience; she would have him and his memories as one of the most valuable guides. She should not be saddened but rather grateful for having a caring father who possessed the wisdom and knowledge to make the best decisions as a parent and an individual. I discerned a hint of happiness in her smile.

In response to her inquiry about my life, I informed her that I had to depart due to the limited depth of my experiences. She requested my address and expressed a desire to schedule a meeting in the near future. After our conversation, we disconnected. I anticipate receiving a wedding invitation in the near future, but the timing of our next conversation remains uncertain. I am perplexed by the contemporary phenomenon of failing to maintain consistent contact with friends through electronic communication. However, similarly to her father, we harbor a desire to engage in activities when opportunities arise.

Carry on my friends, carry on!

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

Helen

Difficult enough to lose a parent but under those circumstances very hard to deal with. I expect your conversation helped your friend immensely. The fact that she called you in the first place says a lot - and I am sure she was very glad she did.  Great progress on the workouts! Friday, February 12, 2010 at 8:37:21 PM CST

Beth

I'm glad you were there for your old friend. Obviously, she knew that you were an ear that she could depend on. Great job with the workouts and yes, I would take less round as a compliment. :) Monday, February 15, 2010 at 9:38:02 PM CST

Biggest loser and jug bands

This week, our hometown team, O’Neal and Sunshine Hampton, returned to the Biggest Loser Ranch. They achieved remarkable results, losing a combined 76 pounds in four weeks at home, averaging approximately 9.5 pounds per week. This surpasses the weight loss achieved by Cherita and Victoria, who lost 63 pounds each, over the same period. O’Neal’s weekly weight loss was just under 13 pounds.

What particularly impressed me was the eloquence of Cherita in her words of defeat and the conciliatory words of O’Neal, who did not lose weight. Their actions demonstrated remarkable human qualities.

While some of the participants on this year’s show have not been as well-received, O’Neal and Sunshine Hampton’s words of encouragement and support have been a refreshing contrast. Their words of wisdom and perseverance have left a lasting impression on me.

In the coming weeks, I anticipate seeing and hearing from O’Neal and Sunshine, who have already shown signs of adjustment to the ranch environment. Their journey serves as an inspiration, reminding us that small steps and unwavering determination are essential for achieving success.

I have been progressing steadily, albeit not at the extraordinary pace of O’Neal, yet I am content with my current trajectory. While I have refrained from weighing myself for the past three weeks, I have maintained a consistent daily routine of cycling and using the elliptical. For January, I have averaged 75 minutes of exercise each day. Additionally, I engage in strength training three days a week.

My plantar fascia pain is intermittent, and my knee condition remains satisfactory.

Although I have been occupied with work and tennis commitments over the past month, I have managed to complete the re-certification classes last weekend. I am pleased to report that I successfully passed all the tests.

As we enter February, I extend my best wishes to everyone and look forward to the arrival of spring. For those seeking entertainment on Valentine’s Day, Cabooze hosts its annual Battle of the Jug Bands at 12:30 PM. This esteemed event, which is widely regarded as the oldest jug band gathering in the known universe, features a diverse lineup of bands, including Como Avenue Jug Band, Malcolm Tent and Heptic Discharge, Mississippi Underertow, Sasquatch Wristwatch, New Improved Jook Savages, Bernie King and the Guilty Pleasures, Good Samaritans, Goat Hearts, Fisher Coulee Ramblers, The Hump Night Thumpers, Mad City Jug Band, Boo Bradley, Feral Dogs, Lee “Colorblind” Johnson, Try This At Home Jug Band, Woodshop, MN 17, Strictly Jug Nuts, Mommy and the Bollocky Boys, West Bank Temperance League, and the Roe Family Singers.

Although this year will be a somber occasion due to the passing of Cam Waters just before Christmas, his brief but remarkable presence on the Minnesota music scene will undoubtedly enhance the event. I am confident that he will be watching over us, making this year’s celebration truly unforgettable.

The Cabooze is hosting a delightful event that promises to be a memorable experience for all ages. Participants are welcome to join a 20-mile run before gathering at the Cabooze. The event will feature a potluck, and children are encouraged to participate.

During my first visit in 2006, I had the pleasure of joining Dana on an 8-mile run. Despite her initial reluctance, she persuaded me to attend, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Notably, I had never encountered a live jug band before that day, or at least not to my recollection.

One particularly memorable moment occurred when I discovered an old favorite food of my grandfather, pickled pig's feet, at the potluck. It is remarkable how the act of eating can evoke such vivid memories. As I reflect on this event, I am reminded of the profound impact that my grandfather, Bill, had on my life. He was a beloved figure who extended kindness and care to everyone he encountered. His remarkable intellect and sharp wit remained until the very end, even as he approached his 100th birthday.

Meanwhile, the Arrowhead 135 race is underway, and I am delighted to inform you that several friends are en route to Texas for the event. The season is set to commence, and I eagerly anticipate the exciting developments that lie ahead.

Carry on my friends, Carry on...

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

wildknits

Ah - Cam Waters... remember hearing him years and years ago (18 or so - kids were babies then) at the Northland Folk Festival in Ashland. Have a tape rattling around the house somewhere. He will be missed!  Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at 8:29:42 PM CST

Beth

I can tell your enthusiasm is on the rise. Yeah! I'm enjoying TBL, also, but missed that one. Glad the MN peeps are back and that they all played nice. I am also not liking some of the contestants, but like to watch when I can. So glad the knee is feeling good!  Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 9:58:27 PM CST

Steve

Londell, stay persistent and you will reach your goals. Success doesn't happen overnight. I'm looking forward to your return to the trails. You've been missed!  Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at 6:42:56 PM CST

I refuse to weigh myself

I’ve debated weighing myself to track my progress. I have goals and need reports to measure their success. My workouts have been consistently better this year. I work out for at least 40 minutes daily, sometimes twice a day. I’ve had three workouts with at least 30 minutes this year. Most workouts this week were over an hour for at least 6 days. Today, I did 90 minutes of hard elliptical, upper body weights, and felt fine. I don’t feel much lighter, but I feel stronger, so I’m not weighing myself yet.

How often should I weigh myself? Experts disagree. Some experts don’t recommend daily weighing, while researchers at the University of Minnesota found that daily weigh-ins resulted in more weight loss over two years than weekly weigh-ins. I’ve used three diet programs (FitDay, Spark People, and Livestrong’s Daily Plate) to monitor my diet and calorie deficit (about 900-1,500 calories daily, including workouts). Should I expect to lose 4-5 pounds? Each program has its benefits for monitoring calories and nutrition, but they’re similar enough. However, I avoid weighing because it can lead to unhealthy obsession.

I have observed that my weight can also fluctuate throughout the day. Consequently, if I weigh myself in the morning one day and then in the afternoon the following day, I may perceive a “false” weight gain. Regardless, I will wait to ascertain whether I have lost weight. Subsequently, I may be disappointed that it is less than I anticipated.

I acknowledge that I will never triumph in this endeavor, so I must accept it. I extend my best wishes to those who attempted the Winter Carnival Half Marathon today. The weather conditions could have been more favorable.

My schedule has been demanding, and my next post will likely be published after I finally weigh myself, unless I inadvertently damage the household.

Carry on my friends, carry on!

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

Karen G

My belief is diet before exercise as the most important part of weight control. Had I not been on Weight Watchers, I am sure I would never have been able to start running and have lost the 40-50 I did. We weighed weekly.  Sunday, January 24, 2010 at 7:56:24 AM CST

Beth

I weigh myself every day. It is a physical action that helps remind me of my goals. I always weigh after I get up in the morning and go to the bathroom. Don't be afraid! It sounds like you are doing everything right, so the scale will be your friend.  Sunday, January 24, 2010 at 10:17:15 PM CST

SteveQ

The frequency of weighing is a mental matter. If weighing every day causes one to obsess, it's a bad idea. If weighing weekly causes one to wonder what caused every little increase or decrease, it can also be a problem. I weigh myself once a month, on the same day of the week each time, first thing in the morning - but I'm not trying to lose much.  Monday, January 25, 2010 at 10:32:29 AM CST

The lost art of letter writing

It has been some time since my last post. There is not much to report at this juncture. I have been exercising regularly, engaging in a 40-minute session at a 15 percent incline, with a pace of 17 minutes per mile, and I have experienced a positive impact. However, I have encountered persistent discomfort in my left foot’s plantar fascia. While I have faced similar challenges in the past and am confident in my ability to overcome them, I have not yet weighed myself since my previous post. I intend to wait at least four weeks and continue to prioritize a balanced diet and consistent exercise. This evening, I felt compelled to share this brief update and inform you of another intriguing discovery I have made.

Recently, I watched several classic films from the 1940s and 1950s. These films, which I consider to be part of the “old movies” category, have always held a special place in my heart. Recently, I watched “Love Letters,” which prompted me to reflect on the numerous films that depict letters exchanged between friends and family members during wartime. This prompted me to compare the emotional impact of Gump’s letters to Jenny in “Forrest Gump” with the themes explored in “Love Letters.”

While “Love Letters” encompassed a broader range of themes beyond letter writing, it brought to mind the significance of letter writing as a lost art form. The ability to communicate through handwritten letters has become an extinct aspect of modern communication.

In the past, writing letters was the sole method of communication over extended distances. In the present era, we can speak to anyone globally within seconds. This technological advancement has prompted me to reflect on the evolution of communication.

Over a decade ago, I contemplated whether my diary had transitioned to an electronic format. I visited a store to retrieve an old diary, only to discover that the clarity of my handwriting on paper was directly proportional to my emotional state. My intricate drawings and emphasis, which could only be achieved with a pen, were evident.

This evening, I resolved to test my long-forgotten ability to write letters. However, my attempt was unsuccessful. Spelling, grammar, and readability were compromised. Consequently, I opted to use my laptop and compose a letter. Nevertheless, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of absurdity in this endeavor.

I wondered what made a letter once so appealing. I recalled letters from my favorite sitcoms, like M.A.S.H. In an episode, Trapper spoke to his wife on the phone, ending with a short “I Love You.” Another episode showed her writing about her love for him, which lasted the entire show and was remembered in the next episode.

Reading a letter, knowing someone took the time to write it, makes it more meaningful. It’s permanent, and even if they regret their words, you have a record.

E-mails and texts are convenient, but letters have a unique flair. Their curves are part of the individual’s uniqueness, making them memorable. A well-written letter has more precious meaning. I remember the joy in Christmas letters, and the sadness in sad ones. You can’t convey that in text or email.

Curiously, my unsuccessful attempt to compose a letter using a pen left a profound impression on me. It prompted me to question my self-awareness at times. This recollection evoked numerous instances when I felt utterly uncertain about my identity and my role in the world. Subsequently, it reminded me of the advice provided by my Political Science instructor during my academic and personal struggles. He had remarked:

"All we do in life is a journey, and taking the next step is the most important part of any journey." 

What excites me about taking those steps over the past 48 years is that I have encountered individuals in the exact location at the same juncture of their lives, yet we arrived there through entirely distinct pathways. Subsequently, we take another step in perfect synchronization, which consistently leads us to a new destination.

Strange! So, I made a second effort to write a letter before I quit. Give it a try. It made me think about myself, my past, and some simple things I cherish!

Carry on my friends, carry on!

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

SteveQ

I know someone else who just blogged about the same thing. She reminded me that I once was a great letter writer; old girlfriends kept my letters and show them to their husbands as examples of romance.  Then they ask if I want them back. Thursday, January 14, 2010 at 10:08:40 AM CST

Helen

Neat post Londell. I have not written a letter in about 3 years or more. When I lived in Japan around 200 I used to write letters home every week! But even then I think by the end of my time there I had transferred to typing them on the computer. I should try again... that's a great idea! I love how seemingly simple things like this make us think about so much more.  Helen. Sunday, January 17, 2010 at 9:08:19 PM CST

Beth

I used to write letters in college, but no more. What I miss most is the personality that comes through in the handwriting and choice of pen and paper. I'll have to give it a try. A Valentine's letter would be a nice gift.  Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 7:23:56 PM CST

Karen G

In some of my mother's stuff, I found a letter my father wrote to her. It was from some time in the '50s. He was in Washington, D.C., for some farmers union trip. I was amazed by it. He had died when I was 19, and it felt so personal even though he was just talking about average things he was seeing and doing. It made me feel so close to him. People should write.  Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 7:58:17 PM CST

&^$*#(@ and Vitamin D again

So, I decided not to weigh myself after I shed 2 pounds in just three weeks, including the Thanksgiving break. I felt good about that. But guess what? I weighed myself today, and I’ve gained 8 pounds in just three weeks! That’s a whopping 6-pound gain since November 1. Ouch! It’s like I’ve gained 75% of the weight I lost back in 2005/2006. I’m still trying to figure out what’s going on, but it seems like there are a bunch of issues.

I’m not going to overthink it because I’ve been feeling bloated lately. I think it might be a sodium/water issue or just that I’ve been working out more. In the past, I’d go up and then shoot down more than I did, plateau, and then drop quickly. However, this time, completing over 30 minutes at a 15% incline or a tough 40 minutes on the elliptical is much easier. This wasn’t the case in November, so I know I’m stronger.

My son had a check-up last week. We received the blood test results today, and they indicate that he has a Vitamin D deficiency. Is this just a medical fad, or has there been a recent change in blood test results? Or is something strange happening? He lives in Colorado and gets outside often—more sun than most. Over twenty people I know have been told they have a Vitamin D deficiency. It’s puzzling.

In conclusion, I am preparing myself for the upcoming season of “The Biggest Loser,” which commences tomorrow evening. Notably, a father-daughter duo from Minneapolis is participating in the show. The father, O’Neal Hampton Jr., is a station manager for the United States Postal Service, while his daughter, SunShine Hampton, works as a waitress. Both individuals hail from Minneapolis.

Specific segments of the show were filmed at Moir Park in Bloomington and the Mall of America. In October, O’Neal Hampton Jr. dined at Rudolf’s BBQ as a “last supper.” While some viewers may express negative sentiments towards this show, it stands out as one of the few I consistently watch and generally find enjoyable.

To facilitate my viewing experience, I utilize a DVR. I turn it on at 7 PM and subsequently rewind it at 8 PM. This allows me to fast-forward through the advertisements, enabling me to return to live television by 9 PM. The abundance of advertisements during the show poses a significant challenge.

Carry on my friends!

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

Diane

I think you're right to think the vitamin D thing is a new "fad" diagnosis. That's not to say there is no truth in it. I also take a vitamin D supplement.
  You've been working hard on your workouts and improving and that's important and good. It's not only about the weight (although that would be nice, too!). Monday, January 4, 2010 at 11:15:31 PM CST

Anonymous

Those two people on the show are my Dad and Sister, they are from Richfield MN and the "last supper" was at The Market BBQ. Thanks for the support! :).  Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at 12:45:34 AM CST

SteveQ

Don't count me as a hater of the show! I have problems with it, but it's interesting and some get inspired by it, which is a good thing.
  I recently ran with a guy who got passed by you in a race. He told me that he was thinking, "I can't let that fat guy beat me." Then he thought, "You know, he's a pretty good runner. He can beat me. It's okay."   Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at 10:28:47 AM CST

Bill S

You're doing fine. I always remind myself in my own weight loss/general fitness goals that it's "a process, not an event". Be honest with yourself, keep doing the right things and you'll reach your goals. It's not about perfection but progress, which is making. My own recent weight loss has come from KNOWING my daily caloric limit (if you don't know where you are going, how will you know when you are there?), Writing it down... and forgiving myself for being human.  Sincerely, a Short Fat German Runner.   Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at 10:49:42 AM CST

wildknits

Londell - I have a bit of insight on vitamin D as I work in health care. There was a recent study in my area looking at Vitamin D levels in folks and discovering that many, many people in northern climates are deficient. Many reasons for this - lack of sunlight being one, but use of sunscreens being another (compounds our long seasons of short days). They have also discovered that Vit. D deficiency can lead to alot of other issues (as you well know). So yes, it is a new thing to test for it more routinely. But the rules for deficiency seem to be pretty hard and fast - at least with the lab we use ;-Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at 2:02:35 PM CST

Anonymous

Hi Londell,  This is Karyn, "Westy"'s wife. I have followed your blog since Mike started blogging and have always related to your weight struggles. Between 2001 and 2003, I put on 40 pounds even though I was running and exercising 5-7 days per week and was not eating any differently than I had been. Actually, I was eating more healthy foods and taking in fewer calories but was still unable to lose any weight. Years of doctors, nutritionists, increased exercise, etc. did not provide any answers. In March of 2009, an acquaintance introduced me to USANA products. (I have no financial interest in the company.) I began using their nutritional meal supplements, which are based on a low glycemic index. I finally started losing weight for the first time in almost 8 years. I lost about 35 pounds in 5 months and have been able to keep it off by eating low glycemic load foods - some of which are very different than what we are told are "healthy" foods. Let me know if you are interested in hearing more about it as this may be a key for you as it was for me.   Karyn. Thursday, January 7, 2010 at 1:51:11 PM CST

Wayne

Here's to a great 2010 for you, Londell... and I'm looking forward to seeing you at as many races/gatherings as possible (whether we're running, volunteering, taking pictures, whatever)!  Friday, January 8, 2010 at 8:28:17 AM CST