Definitely getting better Readers!

Greetings Readers

"Barn door Open"

I know, I know.  I just took a picture right after putting on the pants.  I wanted to get the picture taken right away.  And this is probably going to be the third pants that I am going to have to retire.  Same thing.  It is too big and the belt being cinched up makes the pants I am wearing look funny.  And yes, I did close the Barn door. LOL  I really really wish that I took pictures of me in all my jeans that I could barely fit or fit into back on the end of last month.  I bet the pictures would have told alot.  I know that you Readers can only see the aftermatg, but I can see the before and after.  And to me that is amazing.   Fucking awesome as my old ex-co worker use to say.

I am writing real quick so I can get the pictures loaded.

The other picture is my annual tradition for the month of October.  And if you faithful Readers are still around then you know what that means.  National Breast Cancer Month.  Every year I wear the Pink band to show my support.  Yes, I know many women whom have been affected by this disease.  And one of the main reason why... well I have my reasons

And if you Readers perhaps did not notice.

That is my my G-shock watch that I bought in April, I think.  Limited edition and not solar.  Kind of sucks.  But the watch is superb.  If the watch catches the light right oh yeah baby.  An "oh Baby"   And yes, people do notice the watch right away.

Oh, and I woke up with no sore throat this morning.  I got my voice back - almost.  At least I can talk. 

I will update more later.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The getting better P90X athlete

H & G Asian Cafe

Greetings Readers

As I mentioned yesterday I am maybe getting sick.  Too early to tell at the moment.  And bottom line the throat is a little better today, but now I have lost my voice.  Well, if I try to speak it comes out croaky and choppy.  So, now I am whispering when needed in order to talk.

I got off work at a decent time last night and then headed straight home.  I was going to go to the grocery store, but I decided not to.  What was I really going to buy and how much do I feel like cooking after I get back?  I really did not want to.  Left overs?  A salad?  nope nope nope.  So, I decided to order delivery from my favorite little dive restaurant up the road, so to speak

H&G Asian Cafe - Here is the website

http://handgasiancafe.com/

I have not been since the last time I was with the ex and that could have been in June most likely.  I know I have not been since the last day I left the ex's place which was on July 19.  And since then I have not been motivated to go by and starting the P90X program that is kind of a no-no as well.  Lots of noodles in the dish I love.  I love you - Pad Thai Noodles and Summer Spring Rolls.  Oh yes, I love Summer Spring Rolls and that was a thing I kept from the ex.  Next thing you know I would be buying two orders and I would be down another 10 dollars basically if I had introduced that into our former relationship.  Not once did I even order when the two of us went to this restaurant/cafe.  Needlees to say, it was over two years since my last Summer Spring Rolls.  Oh baby!  Oh baby!  It was good.  I loved every bite as well as the sauce that comes on the side.  Granted, I never had a Summer Spring Roll from H&G Asian Cafe before, But when the former place - Lemon Grass Grill was there - yes I did have at that time.  I was not disappointed at all with the taste of the Summer Spring Roll at H&G Asian Cafe.  Nope nope nope.  The Pad Thai was delicious.  Yummy.  Better than plain sex.  LOL.  So, I ordered in last night and again that was to get food into me and try to get to bed as soon as possible so I can rest and get better.

I have some left over so I will eat the remaining amount tonight as well as the left over steak and wild rice from earlier this week.  Overall, I feel okay, just can not talk.  Sucks.

This cafe is nothing spectacular in appearance, but the food is better than great.  Good.

Though something just triggered a memory.  The ex's youngest child ate with us a couple of times and the first time I bought.  However, when I saw that he ate of the meal that I bought I was pissed.  This child just ate the rice and meat with Teriyaki sauce.  And did not eat any of the vegetables.  Also, he did not even finish the dish.   I paid almost $ 10.00 for his meal.  Anyway, from that point on if that specific child was coming to eat with us I was not going to pay for his Dinner.  Although, I did pay one more time, but we had ordered the family dinner plan so in the grand scheme of things I was okay.  This child as well as the second oldest child were fucking picky eaters.  And I mean picky.  And lazy.  One of the times was that there was, I think, a 5 party frozen pizza party pack in the freezer.  The second oldest one decides not to eat what I cooked for dinner and make himself a pizza for himself.  He takes the last pizza and leaves the empty box in the freezer until I stumble on it when I was putting my steak into the freezer.  How did I know?  I put the steak on top of that Pizza box and the pizza box caved in and my steak fell out of the freezer and onto the floor right in front of me.  You see Readers this is some of the shit that I put up with in the last year.  Readers, this is just a few things I mention - there are a lot of memories regarding said subject.  They do not eat vegetables.  They don't like additional items with rice when it is cooking.  They cook everything on high heat on the stove.  Yes, everything.  I can not even count how many times I saw those cooking burners glowing red.  And so on. 

Well, needless to say I got to loathe the children about this same time last year (or a bit earlier)  Inconsiderate children.  I am not their father so I had no right nor was I going to tell them what was wrong.  I have no authority.  Here is a confession from me.  The ex has four children.  Four.  I was so embarrassed by this that when my friends and co-workers asked about the ex I said that the ex had two children (not four)  Technically, there is two around, so to speak.  The oldest is up in Northern Colorado and the third oldest is living in another state from my last bit of information.  A nuclear family plus two children minus a father.  I did not want anyone to know that I was dating a woman with four children.  Even now I can not tell them that I lied about how many children the ex had.  It is embarrassing.  And looking back the ex really wanted me to meet all four of them.  I did not want to - and I only met the two I am talking about and the other two I did not.  Yes, I know their names and from bits and pieces who they are, but I do not know them.  The second oldest should have been out on his own, but still living with mother and the youngest child.  I tried to get the ex to get the second oldest out, but it was one thing after another with that child.  Drama story galore.  Getting into a car accident, rehab, living on the couch, Getting his apartment rent deposit stolen, getting in a work accident, getting robbed, his account getting "robbed", kittens, not working anymore, buying action figures as opposed to saving his money, etc.  Readers, this all happened in about a span of six months!

Getting back to the post - H&G Asian Cafe if you live nearby.  Give it a try.  I am sure that you will like.  It was comfort food last night and I enjoyed every bite I had.  Excuse me, I loved every bite I had last night.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Athlete who still might/may be sick =(

Sick?... Perhaps. But, Trying Not to Let That Happen.

Greetings Readers

I am off the P90X program for just a bit.  I am perhaps getting sick as I knew this would kind of happen.  Though this may be to some of the people sick around me as well as riding in the cold and rain in the past days.

This morning I went to Sprouts and bought Simply Grapefruit and Simply Orange Juice.  Yes, two different ones.  I am dumping my body full of vitamins and resting.  I did not work out last night either.  I grabbed the comforter, and went to bed.  Rest.  And now, for lunch at the place I work at I got beef tips with rice and green beans.   Again, off the program at the moment so I can get food into me without worrying about fat, sugar, carb intakes.  I am sorry about the white rice, but I am eating it as well as keeping my body full with food.  In a manner of speaking.

When I woke up this morning my throat was kind of hurting when I swallowed.  My throat got better as I got ready to leave, but as of this moment my throat is still hurting a bit when I swallow.  Nothing big, but could be the start of me getting sick.   Which I do not want to happen.  I came into work earlier so I can leave earlier as well.

Anyway, I will try to recap the past week of P90X that I said I was going to do in the previous blog post.

Let me start with going downtown.  I decided to go downtown since I heard that the bar I go to - the 1 Up Club had the new The Walking Dead Pinball machine.  I was stoked.  I am a fan of the show and with me being a pinball player I was excited to see and play this machine.  I did not want to go on a Saturday so I went on Sunday afternoon.  I also wanted to hear the machine and not be rushed to move to another pinball machine.  Overall, I did not like the machine.  The play field was kinda of small and crowded.  I did not like the skill shot either.  The right most ramp I could not hit.  I tried and tried on the three dollars I spent on the machine, but I just could not get the angle right to get that ball up the ramp.  What was disappointing to me was that I did not recognize any of the voices on the pinball machine.  I was actually expecting to hear some of the character voices, but to me, I did not hear one voice that is from the show.  Getting back to the machine - there is the well zombie in the play field.  I did not like the placement and with me being so new to the machine I do not know what to do with him.  I did hit a few times though.  There was a return lane on the right.  The left side had drop targets and then in the upper middle portion of the play field was a vault.  Hit the doors x amount of times and then you see a zombie head once the vault doors open.  Then, the walker kill mode starts.

I will give the machine another try the next time I go and see if I have a better experience.   I could also need a bit more playing time on the machine.  However, I do not want to waste money on the machine if I do not like playing or feel like the playing time is not worth it.  Speaking of which, the exit lanes on the left and right side were in play alot and I lost a lot of balls on those exit lanes.  I did not like that.  If pictures are not posted then I will post later.

Yes, I did some drinking when I went to the 1 Up bar.  Apricot beer - yummy.  Who knew that I would even have and like that beer that is served there from the Tap.  Love it.  And believe me that I do not use that world a lot.  LOVE.  I love you, Apricot beer.  I can not remember the maker, but I think the maker is in Aurora, CO.  Though not sure.

After the 1 Up club I stopped by CB & Potts and had some potato Skins.  I know, I know.  But I wanted some food.  Not healthy food.  But the food I have been forbidden to eat.  And what started this was that I could smell that at the 1 Up club as well as other types of appetizers.  I was going crazy while playing pinball.  Even as I write this my mouth is starting to water and the memories of me playing on Sunday and smelling that hot food being delivered to whomever ordered it at the bar.  Oh so good.  Yes, the potato skins were yummy.  I LOVE you potato skins.  I loved the way you tasted on Sunday.  I can not wait until the next time I decide to do something like this.

Then, the past weekend as well I did some minecrafting.  Alot of things have happened on the server I play on - mostly on the survival econ game of the server.  The way I make my money is gone.  They took away that option to sell that item and now I can not make my money and the mine craft farms that I have made are all useless, at the moment.  I had immediately thought of converting the farms right away, but I have decided to wait to see what is going to be done, or replaced, with that one item that can not be sold anymore to get money.  I did work on landscaping as well as getting some materials for that Halloween competition as well.  The deadline is 11/5 so I have a bit time, but not much time.  I did get an idea so now I just have to get the land and start building like a mad man. 

Yesterday, was the one month anniversary of starting the P90X program although you and I know Readers it has been two weeks officially going by the routines.  It is what it is.  I just hope I feel better tomorrow and do not get worse.  I want to get back on with me now being off the plan for five days.  Thank goodness it is just me now, meaning no ex.

Oh, I took a picture of me in some jeans that I was barely fitting into two months ago.  Now, I can not get them up.  They are too big.  Even with the belt being cinched in the jeans look goofy on me.  So, I took a couple of pictures and decided to retire them since I really can not wear them without them falling down.  Anyway, that is an awesome feeling knowing that the P90X plan is working awesomely, but also feeling that I am getting back into shape.  I also have another pair of jeans that I might have to retire as well since it is also having the same effect.  Breaking up with the ex was the best and healthiest thing to happen to me.  I think I may be down to waist 31, but not sure.  Weight this morning was 138 pounds.

Alright time for me to go.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley

The P90X athlete on halt with program-perhaps sick

Just a Re-cap after Week 2

Greetings Readers

Alot to write I think I have.  I took a few more days off frmo P90X, went downtown, grocery shopping, someone asking me if I rode to work everyday, drinking, Potato Skins Appetizer and minecrafting.  I may have a lengthy update for later tonight as long as I do not freeze going home.  Apparently, it is supposed to be in the 30's when I leave work today.

And before I go - no breakfast, so I had the whey protein shane, salad and chicken noodle for Lunch.  I know I know the chicken noodle was a no no, but it looked good and I was hungry for it.  Oops, I also had eight crackers which is a big no-no.  Sorry.

On the upside - it has been one month since I started the program P90X and only had 1 bottle of Coca-Cola (16 oz).  To me that is pretty fucking amazing.  And I had that Coca-Cola exactly one week ago.  Anyway, just letting you Readers know as well as myself whenever I decide to look back on this blog post.

P90X - 2014 - Day 14

Greetings Readers

I decided a rest day as opposed to stretch X.

P90X - 2014 - Day 13

Greetings Readers

Kenpo X is in the books.  Tired now so I will continue tomorrow and update the routines and of course how I did and how sore I am... perhaps.

Alright, back on while on my lunch break on 10/24/14.  Not going to very long since I took about 30 minutes to browse the web and eat my salad with spicy chicken breast.  Not bad at all.  I did not eat anything this morning so I drank a Whey protein shake.  Which by the way Readers I have invested another 116.00 dollars into the P90X program by buying more of that new Whey Powder French Vanilla.  Note:  I was so wrong - I thought that I bought cookies and cream, but apparently I bought French Vanilla.  Anyway, since I bought the bag size and I did like I decided to buy the bigger size a couple of nights ago.  I also bought the same recovery drink as well since I was almost out of that.  I still am ok on the Creatine.  Though I have about two protein bars left as well.  So, there is going to be another 25.00 dollars as well.  So, this is more of a reason to continue on the P90X program.  I am in deep in money spending at GNC, but I am going to say it is worth it so far.  I think so anyway. 

The changes I can see a little, but in the pants oh yes I can see that tremendously.  I have been taking pictures of myself and I even took another picture of my new underwear that I bought at Dillards just before starting the P90X program.  I do not see any difference really.  I do not know why.  I still see my spare tire hanging a bit over the elastic and I do not like that look.  It's honest, but I know that I am getting that spare tire down.  After all pants fitting again and down to 138 pounds you know that the P90X program is working.

Kenpo X.  I know I stated that this is the least favorite for now.  I can say that last night I did actually like to do a bit and I even got most of the routines down much better than I thought.  I even worked up a huge sweat than last time.  I think that mentioned that I only sweated a bit, but I thought that was due to me learning the moves once more and then getting to the next routine.  Kenpo is pretty fast paced routine so by the time that you got the routine down it is onto the next routine. 

Before I started last night I cleaned up the humble abode - started the dishwasher, washed a load of colors in the washing machine and then picked up some scattered trash and then sorted my loose coins for my coins bottles storage.  (Note: my faithful Readers know my "coin storage bottles")  Wiped down the stove and counters and then I was basically ready. 

I grab the towel, the glass of water, put on my shoes and then I saw the...  The ankle weights.  The ankle weights.  I looked at them and thought could I do the routine with them on.  This Kenpo - quick and some leg kicking and moving, but doable in a sense.  Compared to Yoga X this would be manageable.  What the hell I thought.  I lower my white socks strapped the ankle weights on and thought to myself - what have I done?

"Forget the Rest"

I was literally sweating in the first 10 minutes of the program and this did not let up until then end.  I really did not have any issues with the ankle weights on.  There was some a balancing issue on the runner's pose with the arms in the air.  Other than that I was truly okay with the kicks that I had to do and those kicks were difficult.  Nevertheless, I did them correctly and they added the resistance to the routines.

Bottom line, I nailed almost all the routines.  Thank goodness I started to remember the moves.  Yet, I still have an issue with jab, cross, uppercut moves.

And for me - Awesome call on the Ankle Weights being used on Kenpo X!  Boo Yah!

The hour went fast and then next thing you know it is 8:20 and I was done.  Woo Hoo!

With that said, I decided to hop onto Minecraft and do some minecrafting.  I did that for a while earning some in game money - called nooks - on the server that I play on.  There are two reasons why I am doing this.  One, so I can attain the highest rank and I am 1/3 being there as of last night.  But two, there is a Halloween competition and I am very very tempted to enter the competition.  I bet if can win, if not, place in the top three.  I already have an idea on what I want to build, but the materials that I need are going to cost a bit to buy.  Depending on where I buy.  Anyway, that is kind of a good goal that I want to do.  The deadline is like in 12 days or something like that.  I know it is less than 15 days since that is when I printed out the rules.

We will see.

The next routine - rest day or X Stretch for Day 14.  Again Readers, I am not sure what I want to do yet.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The P90X Athlete finishing Day 13.

P90X - 2014 - Day 12

Greetings Readers

So much information to update in the days that I have not posted about P90X.  Not a vacation, but a few days off nevertheless.

On Friday, we had at work a birthday celebration for the people of that month that have a birthday and we all celebrate on that one day - with treats.  Believe me I was not going, but then the co-workers came back and said that we got the little treats from that one store which are always good.  I couldn't resist; after them talking about it and I do remember how good it was since the last time I had.

I went over to the area and got a marble cake.  I brought it back to my desk and then prepared to eat it.  I was salivating so to speak.... meaning I could feel my mouth watering up.  At the same time I was thinking no you do not want to take a bite.  Just forgot it.  However, I took a picture and you will see the bunt cake was not a very big treat.  Just a little bigger than a staple remover.

Ten seconds later I took my bite.  It did not taste good.  Well, it did not taste like the last time that I had cake from that store.  It tasted funny and the frosting to me was awful.  Could that be because of the no/little sugar in my P90X program.  I do not know.  I did take another bite and soon I was done.  I did not really enjoy the treat as much as my mouth was watering before that first bite.  I was disappointed in that treat for me, but as a whole I am sure it was good to everyone else.  I think being sugarless the past three weeks has something to do with this.

I have been having salad for lunch the past four days or so at work.  I think that is good.  The Salad is pretty plain when I buy at work - lettuce, green peppers, little cheese, hard boiled egg whites only (no yoke), cucumber, celery, vinegar, broccoli and more vinegar.  No oil, no croutons, no bacon bits.  Then, when I bring my salad to work I have the same thing as well as some red onions and green onions and green bell peppers.  Sometimes about an ounce or two of fat free Ranch dressing.  I really have to watch the amount and I really don't want since the amount really does not cover the entire salad amount of my lunch meal.  Red vinegar is just fine for me.

I made pork tenderloin in the crock pot on Saturday so I have that as my main meal.  I was tempted to make some white rice the other day, but said NO.  The white rice is a no-no in a manner of speaking due to the carbs involved.  I know that and I do respect that.  And will adhere to that.  I have that ::mumble mumble:: wild rice. 

Parker came by on Saturday for a visit.  Not much else to say on that Readers.

Now, the big news.  I broke the Coca-Cola no drinking streak.  On Monday evening.  22 days with a Coca-Cola.  Pretty amazing for me.  It was not temptation, but the curiosity on how it will taste.  I went to the refrigeration dept and got a 16oz Coca Cola.  It was more expensive than the two Liter, but then that would lead me to finishing the 2 Liter if I bought.  So that option was a no.  I took it home and funny thing was I left the Coca-Cola in my back pack for an hour before I remembered that I even bought one.  You see Readers I forgot about buying a coke and actually wanting to drink one.  I put the bottle in the freezer to get it cold.  An hour later I opened and took my first drink in 22 days.  There was a metallic taste.  Took a few more drinks in the next 5 minutes and the same taste was there.  I would not say that the Coca-Cola tasted bad, but did not taste the same way I remember it.  Nor was the feeling of just taking a few drinks at once.  I did finish, and I think that towards the end of the bottle I started to remember Coca-Cola and how it tasted.  I think if I had bought the 2 Liter I would have eventually polished that 2 Liter off Monday night.

Both Coca-Cola days counts have been reset.  Today, for no alcohol the count is at four days and two days for no Cola-Cola.  It is what it is.  I read this term on another P90X blog - accountability.  Sure, it was accountability.  I have no problem with that.  I am glad that I am not with the ex anymore since I know I would not be doing this awesome thing now - no drinking everyday, no Coca-Cola everyday, eating very healthy, no fast food, no eating out, working out, and 21 pounds lighter to name the few things that have happened since I left the ex.  My friends and co-workers see me much much happier, much thinner and are amazed I am doing this.  I keep telling them I am doing this for myself, some (#####) as well as backing up what I say I am going to do and not all talk like the ex was. 

Perhaps I will talk about the Ride the Rockies in a future blog post that the ex wanted to do with me since I showed interest in doing/entering earlier this year.   Just to give a brief overview: I saw the bike route in February and really was planning on entering the lottery.  After that little talk and ensuing hurting the ex's feelings nothing more became of that talk.  The ex never got on a bike after that talk we had up until the last time in July were together.  The ex was (and still is the last time I saw the ex) in no condition what so ever to do a tour like the Ride the Rockies.  I did not want the ex to waste money, and more importantly I knew that there was not going to be commitment on the ex's part.  I can see into other people after knowing them for a bit what they are really capable at that time I do look.

I was searching some blog sites the past week and I noticed there are a lot of incomplete blogs on the P90X programs being entered on their blogs.  Yes, I mentioned this before, but I did not realize that there are really a lot.  Mine is one of them - twice before this third time starting the program.  Basically, the same blog posts to report - the pain, soreness, toughness, weak, can't balance, eating, etc.  Again, I want to say I am still sticking to this P90X program this time around.  I have to.  I want to.  Even though every week I have been not doing on the weekend.  Which surprises me - I would have thought I would be skipping days during the week.  Just on the weekends.  I need to really focus and do on Saturday and Sunday.  I am about to start the third week on the program (though it has been 3 and a half weeks as of today with days off I made)  Again during those days I did not do I did not do.  That's all - I did not bing or cheat or go crazy with not doing. 

Oh lunch time is up so I will have to continue this entry later on my P90X day 12 - Legs and Back tonight.  Today I ate hard boiled egg whites only, homemade salad for lunch and a tiny bit of tenderloin.  I did weight myself this morning and I am now at 139 pounds.  A co-workers asked me at lunch today.  She can not believe it -160 pounds when I left the ex in mid July and basically just three months later I am 21 pounds lighter.  And she can see that in my face as well as my pants being so loose. LOL.

Note to self: Today Toys R Us pulled Breaking Bad toys from their shelves.  Damn I now wish I would have bought last week.  Oh well.

Sorry Readers, I am back.  I was beat tired last night and did not work out or complete the rest of this entry. 

So, the Legs and Back went very well.  I added a weight bar to the wieder machine I have in my living room and basically I added 5 pounds to almost all of the routines I did.  I elected not to use the ankle weights, but only for the reason I thought that I would hardly be using in my routines.  I was wrong.  So, next week I will strap on the ankle weights for this routine.  And yes I know that it will be tough.  Matter of fact, my calves and butt are kind of sore from the routine two days later.  I do not think that I slept very well for that reason alone.

I did awesome on the wall squats and all squats and lunges with weights.  The Weider machine I did add another bar to the pulley so I was able to feel the weight and also I was doing less reps.  I still worked up a sweat and sweated like crazy.

And then once that was over it was the Ab Ripper X once more.  Once a bane in my side, but now less and less of a bane.  It is coming easier to do moves and I am almost to point of actually doing the routines like they are on the DVD.  Not the 25 they are doing, but soon I will be.  Soon.  The Mason twist I am seeing improvement each time I do the Ab Ripper X.

I am not say it is getting easier, but easier in a sense that I am getting back into knowing the routines and doing them.  I did throw out a Fuck you last night at the tv, but it was not in anger.  Just please give me a break.

Next routine is Kenpo X.  For now this time around my least favorite at the moment.  Only at the moment.
Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The P90X athlete finished with Day 12

The 1 Up - bar - Denver, CO

Yes, that is me

Greetings Readers

I found a couple of pictures from the 1 Up bar that I frequently go to now with the ex out of the picture.  One was taken by the ex and the other I took last month.  Both feature the pinball Machine Tron, which is actually my favorite pinball game there at the moment.  I am finally getting very good at the machine and now know the layout and scoring of the pinball game.

I do like the AC DC pinball game as well as the Getaway 2 pinball machine (especially with the ZZ Top La Grange).  The Wizard of OZ is visually awesome, but the play is kind of tricky due to the side exit lanes.  The Star Trek pinball is nice as well.  I do like the variety of modes when trying to complete the missions.

In addition to the pinball games there are a lot of video games.  A lot of games that I am sure that you will remember from your past.  There is also skee ball and Jenga outside on the patio.

I am trying to remember last year about this time.  I went to the Kong Off that was held at the 1 Up bar.  What I can not remember if the ex was with me.  I do not the ex was, but I am drawing a blank.  I know I was there for Day 1 or perhaps it was Day 2.  I know the ex went with me on other times, but I just can not remember that specific weekend.

This is kind of the reason why I am blogging about this-  Usually in November for the past three years the 1 Up bar has been the spot for the Donkey Kong World Championships.  The best in the world come to play.  There is an open play tournament for non-professionals, but the best of the best are in Denver for usually three days in November.  I just checked the Facebook site and I do not see any events for this year yet.  So, I guess I will have to check Facebook every week for the next week or so to see if there is another Kong Off, which would be Kong Off 4.

This bar is heaven for me.  A dive bar so to speak, but the ambiance is awesome.  The ex- was hesitant in the beginning and sure burned through my quarters when we first started going to the 1 Up, but towards the end of our relationship the ex actually got good.  Yes, I am damn proud I taught the ex to play pinball.  I even taught the ex how to tilt, so to speak.  The ex was banging and rocking a few of those pinball machines in the past year like we use to in bed.  LOL.  We played pinball most of the time, but did manage to play some of the video games here and there.

A couple of years ago the 1 Up had the Sopranos pinball machine and I loved playing that machine.  Especially the mode where every ball hit makes a character say "Fuck"  It was awesome.

Well, the 1 Up is still and will continue to be in my life.  Just a place I love going to.  In fact, when my brother was visiting in August I took him to the 1 Up club.  He enjoyed it.  We both enjoyed it.  We were only able to go once, but we had fun.  I think we went on a Saturday night, but maybe not.

And that is that.  I do have more pictures

, and may post some later, but I think the two are enough for now.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Pinball player

P90X - 2014 - Day 11

Greetings Readers

Damn Readers - The Yoga X last night was a pretty darn good improvement from the first time starting again.  I was able to do almost all the moves - except that dreaded crane move.  I thought I may gave gotten close, but I am not sure.  Maybe the reason is because I am not quite strong enough to support my weight in that position?  That is what I am thinking. 

Regardless, last night I was delaying the start of the routine since the routine is 1 hour and 30 minutes.  When you get home your normal instinct for most people is to either relax or cook dinner.  Just depends in that you want or need to do.  In my case I wanted to relax. I relaxed for about 5 minutes or so then I started to clean up the humble abode.  Next thing you know it's 30 minutes later almost 7 PM and knew it was time to get started since that would mean 8:30 by the time I am done.

I pulled the Yoga Mat out, got a glass of water, my towel and took off my socks.  Pressed play and there was my/our buddy Tony Horton. 

I am not going to play by play this routine this time.  I did have better balance and then remembered the moves from the first time now since I have started once more again.  So, I was able to focus in front of me and not look at the TV.  I was able to listen to Tony Horton talk and moved to the move that was next.  It was awesome that the moves that I struggled with last time I was mostly able to do.  The balancing moves where alot better as well.  I did falter and lose balance a few times, but it was a whole lot of improvement than the last time.

Let me digress - The Vinyasa.  I do not hate this move, but I do.  I hate when Tony says that on the DVD and then know I have to do and then words after that "push up"  LOL.  Guess what?  I was able to a half push up.  Pretty fucking amazing for me.  However, I still hate the Vinyasa and this time around I was able to do the move whereas the first time I could hardly do in the beginning and then through the program I could not do.  Anyway, I am not sure why I really despise this move.  Kind of like the ex.  I do not know why.  I think the first part of the Yoga X with this move just seems hard on where it is placed.  After plank but before downward dog, I think. 

On the opposite end I was almost into Wheel.  I was so fucking close.  I tried three times and then had to settle for bridge.  However, I was just so close.  I pushed and nearly up... then couldn't push that much more and then back to the mat.  I am disappointed about writing about it now, but at the time I was so happy that I was so close. 

I was sweating within 10 minutes into the routine.  But, I was sweating more this time around.  I was dripping sweat from my head onto the Mat.  And the Mat was having indentations from my sweat.  Well, that is what I think, but probably the sweat and the Mat reacting together, whatever. 

I still modified a few moves since I was not able to do them quite right or completely how Tony and his team are doing.  I am happy that in all my stretches I was able to reach the floor or reach my toes (well the big toe)  Whereas last week I could not do that.  Or if I did I do not remember at the moment.

Oh, I only used the Yoga block a few times - mainly toward the end of the routine were I was getting tired and holding some position did require me to use the block.  No shame at all.  I am happy to say that I did not use the Block as much as I did the first time.

Next thing you know it was ohms time. The end was near.

Let me talk about the Yoga X.  It may seem ridiculous for P90X and yes I even feel the Ohms is out of place.  But I understand.  I do not Ohm, I just breath and keep my hands where they should be.  And Yoga.  I am not speaking for men, but doing Yoga just seems not right.  Regardless, I do not have a problem doing the Yoga X since I am doing the P90X program.  If it is there then do it.  I think I heard somewhere that some reporter asked a mountain climber why they climbed that mountain.  He replied because it was there.  The same mentality for me - because it is there.

Remember Readers, if you are doing this solo and in the privacy of your humble abode then do what you want and do not think of anything on the DVD as goofy or ridiculous.  No one is watching (unless you left the drapes open and people would be able to see you)  So, think of it that way.  That baby back move.  Looks goofy to me and the way it looks to a guy.  However, for a woman - oh baby.  The ex did that move for me a few times as well as Parker has now.  Sorry, I digress - it may seem goofy looking, but in the grand scheme of things the moves are there for a reason in the p90X.  If the move(s) do not work then they would not be in the P90X program.

I guess that is all for now about Yoga X this time around.

Overall, when I woke up this morning it seems my whole body is sore once more.  The good kind of sore.  I stayed up late last night and played some Minecraft - Survival and Skyblock.

Day 11 - Yoga X - is in the books.

I am wearing another pants today that I could not fit into prior to P90X, but today now I have an inch space. 

The P90X program works if you do it Readers.  Looking back I wish I had taken more picture in the jeans I could not fit into.  And there is a lot of jeans that I was unable to fit into not 3 months ago.  It is just amazing to see what is happening to my spare belly / spare tire.  And I am seeing the difference in the mirror as well when I am biking now.  Also, my waist looks phenomenal in these jeans that are now too big for me.  Amazing.

Oh Readers, I just want to mention.  Water.  I think I have reached a point where I am ok with just drinking water with ice.  No lemons or limes needed to flavor.  I still put them in from time to time, but now I can actually drink without any flavor.  I would not even thought that would have happened to me.

19 days without having no Coca-Cola.  A couple looks and one thought of buying that small little can of Coca-Cola.  Again, just a thought.  Not necessarily a desire

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The P90X athlete done with Day 11

P90X - 2014 - Day 10

Greetings Readers

Alright I was able to finish the second time around of Shoulders and Arms routine.  I was kind of procrasinating... Readers I am going to finish up tomorrow.  I am beat.  I want to sleep.

Okay, I am back 10/16/14 lunch time while eating my "big salad" (with brocolli, little cheese, ham, turkey, green pepper, red onion, 3 types of lettuce, cucumber and mushrooms) wth only vinegar.

I do not know why I was beat tired by 10PM last night.  Perhaps the soreness from the ankle weights starting to happen last night and the routine of Shoulders and Arms. Who knows.  But I listened to my body, and shut down everything and went to bed.

Oh, before I start blogging about my routine I did stop by Sporting Authority last night after work to see how much a 30 pound barbell costs.  I did not realize that there are two kids of barbells these days.  I guess if the barbells are coated with a rubber material then they are about 10 to 15 dollars higher than the non rubber barbells.  I grabbed a hex barbell 30# and went the checkout.  Little did I not realize that the hex I grabbed was rubber coated.  Fuck I could not tell that.  It was black, but did not think that was rubber.  Anyway, needless to say that I left the barbell at the counter and went to grab a non-rubber barbell.  No big deal, but i just can not believe that.  Anyway, there were no non-rubber hex barbell so I had to settle for another barbell non matching to the hex barbells I have at home.  Yes, it bothers me that all my barbells do not match, but I did need the 30 pound barbell since I am getting stronger and do need to further weight to gain some "guns". 

Well, that was that.  Then, the next issue was getting the barbell home.  The humble abode was about three miles away.  30 pounds.  Me 142 pounds at the moment.  And then my road bike.  How in the fuck am I going to do this.  Bottom line.  I did carry an extra bag yesterday since I knew that I needed the bag for my ride home due to the 80 degrees we were forecast for.  Oh Readers, it is cold in the mornings - anywhere from 34 to 43 degrees now these days so I am kind of dressing for cold weather which means more clothes in the morning and then less clothes in the evening due to the sun, if out, warming up the day.  Back to the issue.  Ride with one hand on the handlebar and the other carrying the weight. One hand on the hand bar and then one hand holding the barbell with the weight distributed on my aerobars/handle bar.  Or to see if I can actually out in my back pack.  I thought about it for a few minutes and then started to empty out the back pack.  I decided to put in my back pack and hope that the straps hold with the weight or two I hit a dip or bump or something that forces me and the weight toward the ground in which one of two (or more) things could happen - have a blow out (and regardless I was worried about a blow out even biking on a flat surface) or two the weight of me and the barbell could break and/or snap the frame (or weld).  Just my thoughts at the time  30 pounds is heavy Readers on your back and just think I was biking with 10 plus pounds when I left the ex in july.  Damn.  I went slow and easy and took and watched were I was biking.  I did not wear my Oakleys since I wanted to exactly see where I was biking and what was in my path.  What I did not count on was the weight of me and the barbell going downhill.  let me tell you Readers I was gaining speed easily going downhill. With that said I was having to brake more often or even continuously apply the brakes, which I do not like riding my brakes.  In the end I got home without incident and thought awesome.  Oh the weight was normally 34.99 but there is a sale - 5.00 dollars off so I bought for like 30/31 dollars and change.  Which I am thinking I probably should by another 30 pound weight since some of the routines will require both arms to be used and I only now have one 30 pound weight.  That may happen on Saturday the way I am seeing this now.

So the routine was good, though I did not start until about 7:10 or so last night.  I actually got home by 6:30 or 6:45, but I was kind of not motivated to do.  I know I needed to do, but I did put off for a bit.  So, iI cleaned up a bit and watched/listened to Quick Change on TV.

I started and then saw the time 57 minutes.  Urgh.  However, by the time I got 15 minutes into the routine I was okay with it.  Four routines with four routines in them - 3 water breaks.  The first time I did this I knew I did a lower weight - LOL - 10 pounds.  So, last night I knew that I had to up the weight so I did 15 pounds, but on a few of the routines I had to use the 10 weight and yes it was still challenging for me to do - In and Out Straight Arm Shoulder Fly, Crouching Cohen Curl (as yes I used the wall as support to do this routine cleanly), Flip-Grip Twist Tricep Kickback and the Static Arm Curl.  Those were the moves I had to do with the 10 weight.  I am ok since I did do and still struggled a bit, but at least I was doing them with some difficulty - which is what was needed.

Other than that all other routines the increase to 15 pounds for me was perfect.  So, perhaps next time I do this routine I may go up to 20 pounds.  However, that is jumping the gun at this moment.  I need to gauge my strength and training weight in the next week.

The Ab Ripper X went good- Even better this time around.  I did not use the ankle weights due to the difficulty of the routine at the moment for me.  Perhaps later, but then again perhaps not due to the "hardness" of the routine of the Ab Ripper X.

Yesterday, was cottage cheese for breakfast, whey protein for mid morning snack, left over chicken (no skin) with wild rice again.  Recovery drink with Creatine and then Whey protein for dinner since it was kind of late for me to eat.  Meaning, I was tired and knew I was going to sleep right away and did not want to go to bed after eating.

I woke up sore in biceps and knew I did work them out.  They do look bigger now, but I know that is probably just hope.  Who knows.  The weight was still at 141/142 this morning so I did not lose any pounds which is good or perhaps I did and perhaps the muscles are gain weight which offsets the weight perhaps lost.  I also did not sleep well last night and maybe I am wondering if it was due to my routine and perhaps soreness starting last night in my sleep.

Tonight...well 10/16/14 is Yoga X and I do not think I am going to use the ankle weights either for this routine.  I will review the moves and see if it might be beneficial or hindrance since some of the moves require balancing for an extended amount of time.  And the first time around I (you as well if not use to Yoga) will have balancing issues as well. 

Oh, this morning I was curious about the caffeine I had in that fountain drink on Monday so I went to 7-11 and bought two for 2.22 this morning.  I did not find Fuze so I bought Pure Leaf, Real Brewed Tea - Unsweetened.  Zero calories - ingredients are brewed tea, citric acid  Then, kind of below that is caffeine content 30mg/ 8 fl oz.  I did drink those two this morning and I felt that shaky feeling once more.  I do think it was the caffeine that made me shaky since I got the same feeling today.  From here on out I will just stay away from tea.  And I am okay with that.
Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The P90X athlete done with Day 10

Just a Re-Cap after Week 1

Greetings Readers

I want to recap the first week of P90X and the the third time that I am doing the P90X program.

I feel the need to recap.

I am not going to say alot of things were different this third time on P90X, but I do feel that there was. With me having most of the equipment before starting P90X, I did not have any extra equipment cost.  Which is good.  Though if you do not have the equipment I do recommend getting the equipment.  The one I do not like to use are the little bars for doing push ups.  Yes you get an extra 6 inches or so, but I feel wobbly or feel like they are going to turn over.  That may be all mental or perhaps I have not used it that much therefore I have that feeling of perhaps turning over.

The yoga mat - I do like, but for some of the routines I feel the mat is a hindrance.  I do love the Yoga block and does help in the beginning.  However, in week two or three you will not need since you are going to be noticing that you can actually stretch more than you thought you could imagine from the first time doing the routines.  Who knew that you would be able to touch the floor.  Who knew that you would be able to touch your toes.  However, for me there was no way that I could imagine me putting that Yoga block on the bottom of me feet and reach the end of the Yoga block.  But who knows.

The routines - starting again I knew most of the routines so I knew how to do them, but some I had to relearn since it has been two years since the last time.  Also, some of the routines are hard to begin with.  However, modify the move if you can not do.  For example the push ups if you can not do more than a couple, then drop your needs and do that.  Doing that is better than doing nothing and waiting for the next routine to start.  If you can not hold your balance then alter the move a bit to gain balance.  It is not cheating if you are at least attempting to do.  Believe me Readers I did alot of modifying during the first week.  And it was ok.  I worked it and brought and am ok with it.  And now this second week I am bringing it and two days into the second week there is a very noticeable difference on what I could this second time around.  Yes Readers, you will amaze yourself. 

Now, in addition to the equipment I have been using the protein bars, the whey drink, and the recovery drink all from GNC (Yes that retail store)  I bought a gold membership and has already paid off in Gold.  lol.  But seriously, I know I needed the recovery drink and creatine from previous experience, but the whey is new for me taking on a daily balance.  I also bought ( and highly recommend) that shaker bottle to mix in.  Stirring with a spoon or fork helps a bit, but not even close to what the shaker cup does.  I am taking all that yet I am still losing weight.  I guess I need to up my food intake, but then again, I know at the moment I am losing the spare tire since I now have the jeans literally falling down since they do not fit anymore.  I will tell you that was an awkward day at work when I discovered that out and had to literally hold onto my pants while walking.  And yes, I stayed at my desk as much as possible.

Food - I am following the fat shredder program, but have modified it a bit.  I am making what I want to eat and I am also choosing from the categories as opposed to going by the food scheduled laid out.  Also, some of the recipes are huge servings and I do not want to make that much and let it go to waste.  Granted, I do not mind eating the same thing twice in a roll so as not to throw food away.  I cheated last night which I did blog, but in a sense of a bit of chicken skin,  I know, I know, probably the worst thing to cheat on but it was sooooooo goooooodd.  Otherwise, no fast food.  No Coca-Cola.  And Readers my Coca Cola habits were/are bad - I usually would have about 2 bottles of those 1 liter Coca-Cola's.  Every Morning biking to work I would buy 2 of those at the local convenience store since it is 2 for 3 dollars which with tax comes to 3.09.  And literally I would finish both by the time I leave work.  And that does not count the Coca-Cola I have at home or the beer or drink I was drinking after work.  That was my routine and vice.  So for me to say today that I am basically almost at 17 days with out a drink of Coca-Cola is fucking awesome.  On the other hand I hve had four beers - 3 Coronas and 1 MGD since the start of the program and the drinking has been on the weekend.  Which is not surprising.  So, somehow I need to curb that habit that it is the weekend which in turns mean beer.  I would not say that the beers were a reward since I did not consider them rewards.  I wanted to have one and I did, but in moderation.  I had two bags of popcorn (microwave) since the start of the program ( and there should not be me having any more bags of Popcorn).  And I think that is all.  Otherwise, I am maintaining the scheduled as much as possible and not having a problem with it.

I did not run as I blogged about on an earlier, but I think I want to try that on the weekend - early morning run.  Not an everyday thing since I do not think I can make the time for a run.  Perhaps in the morning, but with Fall here and the time change coming soon it would be just kind of hard to do that.  Not an excuse, but an excuse never-the-less .  I know Readers,  I just need to do it.

I like taking the pictures of me every day, and I like not recording the weight everyday.  However, I do get on the scale in the morning to see what my body burned off.  I had a workout journal the first two times, but this time around I do not.  However, I do have a workout journal ready to be used at my humble abode.

And as I stated before - the ankle weights are awesome.  Even now I am thinking about buying another pair for wearing at work.

Lastly.  It is P90X, and I should perhaps be on the third week, but I am not due to days off on the weekend - those three days weekends I am making for myself.  I am ok with that.  I am working hard for many days straight and then somehow for the first two weeks I have been making Friday, Saturday and Sunday a day off.  One weekend was legit, the other weekend was no reason to.  It happened, but I am right back on come Monday.  If perhaps I was more structured more strict then there would not be this issue.  Which is not an issue for me.  But it happened and I am ok with that.  The important thing is I am seeing results and I am not quiting since I am seeing what I wanted to see right away.  Just keep that in my Readers,  If a day or two needs to be taken off do it, but don't go crazy and start eating to your old habits and whatnot.  Eat as you are doing on the P90X.

I hope this helps or gain insight on how to cope or perhaps to cope next time on the Phase 1 of P90X.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley

The P90X Athlete getting ready for Day 10 tonight.

P90X - 2014 - Day 9

Greetings Readers

I just done with Plyometrics.  And guess what?  I upped the attitude.  hah hah.  Well, I mentioned I was browsing some P90X blogs the other day and I happened to remember that a guy used ankle weights when doing the P90X on some of the routine.  Well, after work to day I went to Target and located some ankle weights.  8 pounds or 4 pounds weight for each ankle.  Dang.  I am not going to say that it was heavy, but when I strapped those ankles weights on I though to myself two weeks ago I was at 151.  And this morning I was at 141/142.  I had that much body fat (I am assuming on me?!)  Fuck me.  I can not believe that I was carrying that much weight that weigh that much on my ankles.  I guess one does not know when you actually strap the weight onto yourself.  I know I know yesterday I was doing 25 pound barbells easily, so to speak.  But doing Plyometric for the hour with 4 pound ankle weights on each ankle - DAMN!  Let me tell you I wanted to take the ankle weights off at the first water break.  I was testing myself.  And I sure did get a workout.  I was able to do the routines better and keep up better; however I still struggled on the Rock Star and One legged Hop (sorry I can not remember that routine's name at the moment)  I thought about taking off the ankle weights during those, but I think I pretty made up my mind to keep those weights on no matter what.  I had some issues with some switches do to the switch hop.

I knew I was able to do Plyometrics, but somehow I wanted to challenge myself and the thought of trying ankle weights just seemed right.  I almost bought the 2 pound weights, but thought what the fuck - I am going to bring it.  And I couldn't then I knew that I could do it next week.

I had whey powder this morning.  Then a co-worker brought Hatch Green Chili to work - so I had some of that, with Spanish rice and a small tortilla and a half.  I was okay with that.  Although I did not want to eat the tortilla due to the carbs.  However, since she brought some for me I did not want to decline.  For dinner I had 1 chicken thigh.  And a bite of the chicken skin.  I salted the skin a bit and took a normal size bite.  Oh it was heaven.  After that bite I looked at the skin more, then immediately threw it in the trash and then washed off the plate of any remaining skin crumbs.  I did not want to be tempted to take another bite.  That bite was delicious.  Fabulous.  After the workout I once more had the recovery drink with Creatine added.  And that is done after P90X routine.

Well, that's the summary of the day's meals and P90X routine.  I am kind of sore from yesterday and I think that was from doing more of the push-ups.  I know it has to be since I did alot more than I did my first time around.  I am worried about tomorrow though.  With the ankle weights I know I may have pushed it, but I am going to accept the soreness and pain that might be there tomorrow. 

I brought it tonight and I am happy that I did.  I sweated the same if not more than the last time.  The ankle weights took just a bit to get used to, but once I got into it then I really got used to them.

Again, if you guys/gals lose that much weight in certain amount of time go to a store and buy some ankle weights to the amount that you lost.  You will not believe how heavy that weight is on your ankles.  Even more so is when you think that you had that weight on you before getting those ankle weights.  Doing a routine with those ankle weights on you - you will think how in the fuck does 8 pounds (or whatever pounds you lost in a certain time frame) weight that much.  Sorry Readers, it is truly amazing for me to workout with that weight that I lost in the past two weeks - granted I lost about 10 pounds, but having 8 pounds on me, my ankles, I think how did I do this routine the first time around?  Truly amazing, but it was worth it.

P.S. as a reward at Target - I bought X-Men - Days of Future Past.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The P90X athlete put Day 9 in the books =)

P90X - 2014 - Day 8 - on correct day

Greetings Readers

Sorry, with me blogging usually the day after I have kind of messed up the routine to day count.  Day 8 is actually last night and I have started the program over again... well Phase 1 - week 1, but now is week two.  I am looking at my results from the first day and yes there is improvement as well knowing that I was able to do more pushup and even raise the weight by 5 pounds as well as increase the weight machine as the substitute to the pull up bar. Although, I think the next time I will attempt the pull up bar in the doorway.  If the improvement is/was little I am sure I am going to be even better in 8 days once I do this for a third time.  I may have to buy a 30 weight barbell as well. since the 25 is the highest I have at home at the moment.  The Dive Bomber push up still sucked, but at least I was able to do a few cleanly and not fail.  As I struggled I went to the knees and still tried doing and I think I did a pretty damn good job.

I did take a couple/few days off once more.  Its the weekend thing mentality.  I need to break that so I am going to power through a not take a break.

What I have noticed is that I am not really documentating my food intake.  For example, today I had strawberries for Breakfast,  Whey protein shake for mid morning snack.  Then, lunch.  I had beef quesadilla (with some cheese, tomatoes, beef - and little bit of salsa.  I only had 3 so there is one left.  Then, with the meal I got a fountain drink. And I still did not have coke, but I did choose....Fuze Unsweeten Ice tea.  I checked the web and its says 15 calories.  I can not find a straight answer, but I think there was caffeine so if so that is my first intake of caffeine in 2 weeks.  I am still Coca-Cola Free.  I just wish I did not have caffeine.  I think I got jittery, but then again it could have been to low sugar.  But I really do not know.  I have a feeling it was the caffeine that caused me to feel weird earlier today.

So, that was about it for food.  Again. I am not writing the foods down, but perhaps I should.  I know I am following the schedule as well as the food that I can eat currently.  I will evaluate this week and see.  I am taking pictures every day still so that is good for me.  I do get on the scale every day as well to see the weight.  Today I was at 143/144 so it looks like I kind of slowed down, but then again I did take another short break.  We will see.  I know I am losing weight in the mid section.  I can wear some old pants that I have not worn for about 6 months now =)  Woo hoo.

Well, while at lunch I surfed the web and was looking at some P90X blogs.  What I noticed that most were incompete.  As my previous times doing the P90X blog.  Interesting.  I think it is interesting in the beginning, but then I think it was for me no time to blog.  I am going to attempt to blog each day.  Really I want to.  Even if I am beat.  I need to do this for me, but as well as other to see progress and someone who did document and complete the P90X program.

Alright Readers, Time is late so I need to get to bed so I can get some rest and feel the soreness from the harder workout this time around

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The P90X athlete on Week 2 of Phase 1.

24 Hours of Boulder - 2014 - I did not participate

Greetings Readers

I was so close to participating in this event yesterday.  So close.  I got my registration fee. I printed off Bus and Light Rail Schedules on Friday.  Got my bag almost ready.  I so wanted to do this.  A beautiful Saturday was predicted and I was motivated.  I think this is mainly of this new me - post break up - if you will.  And perhaps just doing the P90X as well.  Then that was also the reason as well not to do this event.  The past two times I did this I put myself out of comission for about two to three months.  Not to mention the week after fucking running this event.  My body and feet takes a beating.  And I do not want to derail the P90X since I started two weeks ago.

I checked the website on Friday and saw nothing has changed, but there was a night fun run.  That would have been interesting.  Anyway, I have been thinking about it since Thursday and just wanted really to do this.  Then, thought of me doing this without any real running in the past two years kind of changed my mind.  As well as not having any running shoes that are not worn out.  So, that was another issue that I had to really think about on why not to do this.  I thought about the lap and thought hmmmm if I did no running I could walk.  Then, how many laps could I do if I walked.  All these things to think about and really think about.

I thought about my last time running/walking in the 24 Hours of Boulder and I remember seeing the sun rise, peak over the horizon.  It's first light and me actually making through the night.  Not necessarily running, or jogging, but a brisk walk.  I wanted to see that moment again. 

However, when I got up this morning I saw that there were clouds and the Sun actually did not peak until 7:50 or so.  So, I guess I would have not see that moment this year. 

Anyway, I hope the participants did well and the 100 milers were able to complete their 100 mile run.

I am going to look forward to this next year.  I want to do it again.  I say this now, but obviously we will have to see.    I am looking at my dining room wall and I see the mileage I did on Oct 16-17, 2010.   57.12 miles - 8 Laps.  How in the fuck can I beat that.  That number looks huge to me as well as the two marathon I technically did in 24 hours.

Pretty fucking amazing.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The P90X athlete starter.

P90X - 2014 - Day 8

Greetings Readers

I saw this about two months and I heard about it about 6 months I am assuming.  I guess I am really interested in seeing this movie.  And really for all the wrong reason.  I think that you faithful Readers, and not the people who are in faith, know that I do like movies and I especially like movies that maybe Oscar contenders around this time of the year.

Foxcatcher.  This is my pick and I think Steve Carrell may just pull out an Oscar.  I know I know - very arrogant to say since I had not seen the movie, the movie is not out and I am just basing this on the trailers I have seen to date.  I will admit I like the way he looks and the way he talks.  Not necessarily the accent, but his facial looks when he is talking.  And what about Chantum Tatum.  I know I probably spelled his name wrong.  But his acting looks great and he looks perfect for the role he is playing.  I just found out the plot of the movie about three weeks ago, but only in general.  It's about wresting, Olympics and two brothers and a tycoon.  I think.  lol

I love the music in the trailer, the beat, the look, the mood and I am excited.

Steve being in a drama as opposed to a comedy.  I do not care for Steve, except when I saw him in the 40 year old virgin.  He just does not do it for me.  Dunno why.  However, with this new movie I think he will be known for more than just a comedian.

Ok Kenpo X was last night.  I sweated, but not as much as the previous days.  And I think that was due to me learning the Kenpo X moves once more.  It has been two years and honestly I never did the Kenpo outside my living room.  I did like the stretching and I can actually see me stretching further and better.  Anyway, the work out was about another hour and I did it without any problems.  As soon as I got home I stuck in the DVD and got going.  I did not want to wait any longer since that is an hour I have to set aside.  Anyway, Kenpo I will have to get back into rthym after a couple or few more times.  I struggled a bit more than I should have, but I still got my workout and I brought it. 

I had a beer last night as well - another Corona.  So, that has brought the beer count to 4 bottles.  On another note I am happy to say that I am 11 days Coca-Cola free.  To me that is amazing considering that I am not struggling or yearning to have a Coca-Cola.  I do have a 1 Liter of Coca-Cola in my cabinet at work (and you Readers may have noticed that red cap in the water picture I posted the other day).  It is there since I bought that September 26 and I did not have the heart to throw away or give away.  Again, there may be a slip, and just in case I need to have a taste, a drink, a couple swallows, or have to down that fucking Coca-Cola down!  LOL.  But again Readers, none of those reasons are coming up and I only see that red cap every time I open my cabinet at work.

Getting back to Kenpo X - the routines that I had trouble with coordination - Twist & Pivot with hook and uppercut, step drag/high-low punch, step drag/claw/low punch, front shuffle with high block/low punch and hook/uppercut/low side kick.  Readers, if you are a P90X participant and perhaps about to do or doing I am posting the routines that I am having issues with so you may compare and see if you are having the same issues as me.  Or I as you depending on the point of view.  And I am sure after a couple more times I will be able to do with no problem what so ever.  I do not have a heart rate monitor so I did not monitor myself. 

And that is about all I have to add at the moment.  Today is either a Rest day or X stretch.  I do not know at the moment what I am going to do, but I probably should do the X stretch since I did take a few days off.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The P90X athlete on Day 8

P90X - 2014 - Day 7

Greetings Readers

Last night's routine was great.  Perhaps it was the three day break, or perhaps I just needed a day or so to re-coup.  Anyway, I did the routine with such energy and I did not even think about looking at the time in the lower right hand corner to see how much time was left.  I thoroughly enjoyed the routine and was pumped.  Then the Ab ripper X.  I did better and I even was able to do some of the moves I detest or struggled.  Though even though I was able to do I only did a few then had to modify to at least be doing part of it as opposed to not doing it at all.  I guess the core is coming into play now.  That did not take long to accomplish.  Of course, this does not mean that I am looking forward to the next Ab Ripper X, but I know I am improving now.  The third time with this improvement is the sign that I am doing the program and I am "Bringing it"

Here is an update,  I was able to add some pictures to the past posts with the past week and a half.  Apparently the blog site has changed a bit so uploading the pictures and posting to the blog posts are a bit of new thing to me.  Bear with me.  For example that arrowhead water.  I loaded the image perfectly, but when the image loaded it turned the picture 90 degrees.  Do not ask me what or what happened since I do not have a clue.

Getting back to the routine last night.  Legs & back.  I will tell you my hamstrings are sore.  And the move that probably made them sore is the wall squats.  I was not looking forward to this one since I remember the one from the previous times.  tough baby.  well, only when you are starting out the P90X program.  The burn was incredible.  And this was not the only burn I had.  The Calves.  The calf raises also kicked my ass and burned.  And as I write this blog post they are sore and tight.  Even after doing Kenpo X just two hours ago. 

I was sweating like crazy last night.  And that was good.  That means I was working and in the zone.  I was okay after the routine as well as this morning, but later in the afternoon the muscles got tight and I started to feel sore in the areas that I worked out.  lol

Nothing new and I of course was expecting this.  If I did not then I am not doing the P90X to the max.  Meaning, I am not Bringing it.

I went to GNC last night to look at some other Whey mixes.  I am having a hard time drinking the one I bought last week.  The vanilla flavor has a aroma that just bothers me.  And when I am drinking the mixture I am having a problem drinking it.  But I am drinking it.  Anyway, I bought another one last night and this was a step better than what I bought and this flavor was cookies and cream.   I was really worried since I can not remember the last time I ate ice cream cookies and cream.  I decided to take a chance and buy a small packet.  I brought it to work today and had my first drink.  Before that when I opened the package I was overwhelmed by the smell.  Different.  I left to get some water and then when I came back I decided to do two scoops.  I mixed and then raised the drink to my mouth.  I got ready and then took a drink.  Again different.  I took another drink waited a bit and then another drink.  I have to say it was not bad.  Not bad at all.  I think I have found a flavor that I can do better than just vanilla.  A bit more expensive, but I know I can drink this.  Now, what I have left of the vanilla I need to drink that up so I do not waste money.

Alright Readers, time is late and I need to get going.  I did kenpo X and I am kind of beat.  There is not much to update on that, but will do one tomorrow, pending how many more pictures that I need to upload to get my blogs updated.

I am not sure about tomorrow.  A rest day or X Stretch.  With the break I took this weekend I think I need to do X stretch.  Though at the moment I am not sure.

Weather wise it is suppose to be mid 50's tomorrow and rainy so if it rainy when I leave work then that might decide whether or not I will do the routine.  Being rained on when riding home sucks, but it is cold and wet and when I get home after a ride like that I like to take a shower and then curl up on the couch in my blanket/comforter. 

Again Readers we will see.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The P90X athlete on Day 7

P90X - 2014 - Day 6

Greetings Readers

I did not have access to my P90X DVDs this weekend so I did take the weekend off as well as last night.  I also had three Corona's on Friday as well.  Though I still not have had a Coca-Cola.  So with that said I have been Coca-Cola free for 9 days.  And once more there is no real craving so to speak.  I see the Coca-Cola in the store as well as the convenience store, but there is no real desire to go and buy a Coca-Cola.  I am surprised on how well I am adjusting or not adjusting depending on your point of view by not not evening wanting to have a drink of Coca-Cola.  I remember the previous times, numerous times that I have not drank Coca-Cola or even quit for a week..  I am not going to say hell, but in those past instants it was tough and rough.  Why now has not drinking a Coca-Cola not being a struggle for me?  Who knows.  The other benefit is that I am saving 3.09 each day since that is what I was paying for my two cokes almost everyday.  That means I was spending 15.45 a week and in the morning alone on Coca-Cola to bring to work to drink.  This does not include the cost of the Coca-Cola at home.  The new cost is two Arrowhead waters that I have been buying instead for work.  And really do I need.  We have filtered water at work, but remember Readers I am getting to know Jennifer once more so there is a reason to stop by the convenience store in the morning.  So, at the moment I am estimated spending 10.00 per week.  Estimated since I really did not stop every day last week at the store to get my bottles of water. 

The water with Lemons is getting routine now.  This was my first weekend on the P90X program and I am not going to say it is or was going to be tough.  But not at work and you at home or not, there is more possibility of me breaking the no Coca-Cola streak.  I cut the lemons in half squeeze add ice then my Deep Rock Water.  Which by the way Readers, I mis informed you it is the 2.5 Gallons that I have in my fridge.  I bought another one on Sunday and then finished the one I bought last week yesterday.  I do not think that one a week was not bad.  Note - I have been using the water from my tap for the recovery and Whey drinks.  No need to use the "good" water on those drinks.  Those are okay as is since Deep Rock water is not going to make a difference at all.

I did weight myself Sunday and I came in at 145 / 144.  I did lose a lot of pounds in a week.  And I have been eating as well as following the meal plans as close a possible. 

Speaking of which.  I have made another change this time around.  There is a day by day meal plan that I used last time.  This time around I am using the meal plan again, but I am changing the schedule to fit on what I want to eat as well as to make sure that I am not letting stuff I buy at the store spoil or go bad since I am spending a lot of money on the program.  A lot meaning a lot more than I have been, except with the ex- when I was spending a lot as well.  I am not sure I blogged about this or not, but believe it or not I am actually eating cottage cheese. Who fucking knew.  I guess mentally I hated cottage cheese.  The look and substance.  yuck.  I guess it was like the last time when I started P90X program (and I did blog about it) when I tried Guacamole for the first time.   Cottage cheese is very good, I am buying a brand from King Soopers so I am buying that one brand and will stay with that for now since I actually really like.  Anyway, I surprised myself on actually liking Cottage Cheese.

I have no excuse for taking the three days off as well as having three Coronas.  It happened and now I got to get back onto scheduled.  At least I am not sick or not sore as I was, however you bet your ass I am going to be sore tonight.  You can count on it.

Also, on my "three day pass" I also played some minecraft as well.  I do not think I told you Readers, but I am playing on a server called DesiredCraft, which I found about two years ago.  Anyway, the server is huge and I so like.  I only at the moment play two of the games and those are survival and Skyblock.  The latter I have a VIP perk so that is kind of awesome to have since I get VIP benefits if you will.  Anyway, I have been beat and too tired to play last week when I got done with everything.  So, last night I logged on and did some Minecrafting.  I love minecraft and to me it more than just that.  I can build what I want and build amazing things.  To me this is my time.  I have many projects going and they have been and probably will still be there until the end of time.  I have goals, but when I get done with a milestone if you want to call that then I think of what I can do further.  Yes the builds are for me, but also to show off as well.  There are the players who are there and then there are players like me.  Perhaps.  That build to build something that is not like the rest.  As well as expensive.  To show off my wealth in the game.  Though the target audience are teens so I do keep that in mind since showing off to them is a lot easier than someone older.

I did have steak and arugula for the first time since being on P90X plan.  Oh man that steak was good.  Very good.  I also had Asparagus and wild rice as well when I finished the other half of the steak yesterday.  Oh I guess on my three day pass I kept to the meal plan.  No Fast Food.  I think that is something else I am surprised at.  I would like some fries, but in the overall grand scheme of things I am not craving anything specific at the moment.  I guess that is another good thing as well.  Anyway, so I still ate to the plan and not hard to since those two P90X books are with me all the time.

Going off topic - I was thinking.  I have a DVD collection, which I am sure that we have some sort of one.  Perhaps.  Anyway, I have some, a lot.  I was seeing the ex for almost two years and you know what the ex never ventured out more than a few movies the ex watched at my place - these are the only movies the ex watched at my place - When Harry met Sally, Shawshank Redemption, Thelma & Louise (though not very much) and that's it.  I blogged before the ex did not like the cussing and that was evident when I was watching Good Fellas, but the ex also commented on the fuckity and fuck fuck this when I was watching Gridlocked.  I did not notice this until just the weekend.  At the ex place - there is Frequency, Premonition, Fireproof (or something else, I can't remember) and that is all I can remember at the moment.  With that being said that should have been a red flag.  The ex really never explored my movie collection so to speak.  The ex bought me Big, but I gave that back.  Big.  Really?  A good movie, but the ex could have gotten something a whole lot better.  But didn't.  And that is the thing.  Why not.  Another red flag that I missed.  I could go in to the movies that the ex watched and I see a central common theme, but basically supports what I did not get at the time we were together.  And yet, with all that said there was no talk about what I watch and perhaps how it affected the ex.  Only the rude comments too much cussing, etc. 

Alright Readers I guess my time is up so I need to let you rest your eyes and I will get back to tomorrow (or later)

Until the next time

Daryl Charley

The P90X athlete on Day 6