And it starts again.
Here it is Friday, August 29th at 4:14AM. I'm back!!!
I had a whole week to set up my classroom, and I wasted three days doing not much of anything but moving this or that. Thursday, while most of the other teachers were trying to get their classes back in order, I was right along with them, the only difference was that I was one of the very few who came in on Monday, but had nothing to show for it. What's the school's schedule for the two (official) days before school starts? Thursday was classroom day, with Friday reserved for all day staff developement.
How about lunch? Since I've been back, on Monday I had a Healthy Choice Meal, Tuesday, a turkey and cheese sandwich from the local bodega; and yesterday, I had a hamburger and fries with an iced bun. My face in a matter of days is already about to go into acne overload.
So why am I on the computer at now 4:23am? I arrived home about 7:00pm. I ate the last of the leftover spaghetti -- I bought a small jar of sauce on my way home. I dumped about half of the jar over the leftovers before zapping it in the microwave. I was too tired to do anything but eat and sleep. But, assistant principal 2 asked for a copy of my Goals for the Year sheet. I (think I) was the only one who had it typed, so she wanted to use a blank copy of mine as a template for everyone else. But instead of just emailing her a copy, I had to make it look just right. However, after about a couple of attempts (while fighting sleep), I logged off forgetting to email it. I went to bed (clothes and all) only to wake up about 4am to send it and shower. And maybe catch a 90 minute nap.
New Plan -- Time wasting professional developement and classroom set up. Which means this weekend will be lesson planning, and probably coming into class on Saturday to finish what should have been done by Thursday at the lastest.
No, I'm not in a good mood.
Post Date - Monday, October 27, 2008 11:22PM
Completion Date - Friday, August 29, 2008 4:33AM
Friday, August 29, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Set Up - Day 3
I'll have to make this fast. Tomorrow is the official first day back. So, spending a extra 3 days in schools before the official day, how much have I accomplished.
Not much.
The first couple of days were basically moving days for me. Monday was about moving boxes and furniture. Tuesday was about moving my personal teaching materials from home to school, and moving 6 students desks from the third floor to the second floor for the increased class size I'll have this school year. And today?
Last night I went to bed about 11:30pm only to wake up about 1:30am with a runny nose, a dry cough, and serious case of sneezes. I didn't return to sleep until about 3am. When I woke up again I wasn't in the mood to handle my classroom. I managed to finally get out and catch the train at about 11:30pm. I arrived to school about 12:30pm; my day was about half over when I arrived. Other than shuffling books in my classroom library, I didn't do anything.
Revised Plan
Thursday will have to be classroom set up.
Friday - It would be nice to say that I will be spending the whole day lesson planning for the month of September, but a more realistic plan will probably be finishing up decorating the room and doing my lesson plans for the first week of school. Hopefully, I will be able to have my supply list and letter of introduction revised.
Post Date - Sunday, October 28, 2008 2:58PM
Completion Date - Wednesday, August 27, 2008 8:40PM
Not much.
The first couple of days were basically moving days for me. Monday was about moving boxes and furniture. Tuesday was about moving my personal teaching materials from home to school, and moving 6 students desks from the third floor to the second floor for the increased class size I'll have this school year. And today?
Last night I went to bed about 11:30pm only to wake up about 1:30am with a runny nose, a dry cough, and serious case of sneezes. I didn't return to sleep until about 3am. When I woke up again I wasn't in the mood to handle my classroom. I managed to finally get out and catch the train at about 11:30pm. I arrived to school about 12:30pm; my day was about half over when I arrived. Other than shuffling books in my classroom library, I didn't do anything.
Revised Plan
Thursday will have to be classroom set up.
Friday - It would be nice to say that I will be spending the whole day lesson planning for the month of September, but a more realistic plan will probably be finishing up decorating the room and doing my lesson plans for the first week of school. Hopefully, I will be able to have my supply list and letter of introduction revised.
Post Date - Sunday, October 28, 2008 2:58PM
Completion Date - Wednesday, August 27, 2008 8:40PM
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Back to the Salt Mine
Sorry, I was too tired to post yesterday. Yesterday was suppose to have been moving furniture and unpack the neatly labeled boxes. Well, that was just hopeful dreaming for me. First of all, I got started later than planned. I arrived to school about 11am. After I moved the furniture to their approx. locations, and cleared off the back cabinets, I was exhausted. Even though I had a fairly concrete idea of where I wanted everything to go, and my boxes were labeled so that I knew exactly what was in them. I still had to deal with a bit of a mental block (a kind of "where do I start, or what do I do" kind of thing). So instead of doing anything substantive, I kind of fritted away the time.
Today, I had a reservation with a mover to help me move my things back to my classroom. To make sure we were on the road as quickly as possible, I moved my things from my apartment to the sidewalk before the mover was supposed to have arrived; the guy was about 40 minutes late. He was a very nice guy though. When we arrived, the side area gate was locked, and the side door was locked as well. My classroom just happens to be the last class by the side exit. If the side entrance had been opened, it would have been a single flight of stairs to my classroom. The only available space was a fire hydrant further down the block. Since the mover couldn't leave his van unattended (and risk getting a ticket), and not knowing where to take the boxes, it fell to me to move my things into the building. Once in the building, I had to take the approx. 10~15 boxes up one flight of stairs. I was exhausted again. I was too tired to do anything productive like unpacking boxes, so I sat and organized the classroom library books. I took a break for lunch. I ordered a turkey sandwich from the local bodega. On the way back, the security guard was either off duty or on a lunch break, so Mr. Gruff (one of the custodians), came to the door...reluctantly (making sure to remind us[those trying to get into the building] that Thursday was the day we were suppose to return).
About 5:40pm, the fire alarm when off. In this school, that's the custodian's way of saying, "get out, now".
What's the attached photo? I took this picture while I was moving my things. On Sunday, someone on the first floor of my building left that trash right in the middle of hallway. They could not even be bothered to put it near the incinerator closet. Where my foster father lives, signs have to be posted to remind residents that they should not through soiled diapers and trash out the window. Amazing...and not in a good way.
Post Date - Saturday, October 25, 2008 11:53PM
Completion Date - Tuesday, August 26, 2008 9:48PM
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Broadway Walk - Slideshow 1
Below is a slidshow of pictures I took along a walk up Broadway (NYC).
Post Date - Saturday, October 18, 2008 10:32PM
Post Date - Saturday, October 18, 2008 10:32PM
55/25 and a Broadway Walk
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Today started with a bit of online paperwork. Tomorrow, the 55/25 retirement offer is due to expire. I don't know why, but I did not really seemed interested in joining when I first heard about it. And, as usual, I waited until the last minute.
What is the 55/25 retirement option? Teachers who are eligible to sign up for the retirement option with 25 years or more can retire at age 55 without any penalties or reduction in pension payments. Those not able to join will have to wait until age 62 before they can retire without reductions to pension payments.
At first, I felt that there was no way I would want to retire at age 55. I would die of boredom. But, I've been thinking that maybe retiring early wouldn't be a such a bad thing. I could receive my pension and find another job that was less stressful. I would be able to receive my pension and collect another paycheck doing something else. Maybe start a business.
Well, I almost missed the deadline, but I was able to do a "Yes click" online, so I made the deadline.
After, getting off the computer, I did not have time for breakfast or a relaxing soak in the bath. I had to settle for a shower.
The plan was to meet my epal (Vpal) at the Staten Island Ferry Terminal at 2:30pm. I arrived 2:14pm; Vpal arrived about 2:53pm. The plan was to walk up Broadway as far as we could. Along the way, I took a few photos, and we stopped for pizza. About 6pm, I decided to stop when we reached 42nd street. We walked about 4.2 miles. I needed to get home to get ready for tomorrow. Teachers here in NYC don't have to return until Thursday, but I know I won't be able to set up my classroom in two days, so I want the head start.
The Plan:
Monday
- Heavy moving and lifting. Unpacking the boxes and arranging the furniture. Covering the bulletin boards.
Tuesday
- Moving the materials I took home back to my classroom. I rented a "man with a van". Laminating, cuting, posting wall decorations around the room.
Wednesday
- Finish room decoration. Material organization (textbooks, paperwork, etc...). Begin curriculum planning for the month of September.
Thursday
The official return to school. Organizing classroom library into a proper lending library.
Friday
- Finish up the loose ends.
If I can follow my plan, I should be out of the building by 4 or 5pm. Last June, I spent a bit of time carefully packing my boxes, and labeling each one on the outside with what's inside. I cleaned, wrapped and stored everything that should have been. I should be able to hit the ground running tomorrow. Tomorrow, I want to be in by 9am and out by 4pm. I want to exchanged a shelfing unit to the Target Store. I like the one I bought today, but when I got home, I found out the uglier one would allow me to put 4 containers on each shelf as oppose to only 3 containers(the difference was about 2 inches). What are the containers for? Teachers are required to keep work folders in each subject area for each student, and portfolios for each student. Basically it's a lot of paperwork on display. With the selfing unit, I will be able to keep all the work folders in one place as oppose to finding places around the room which will have much less space with 29 students. I will also be able to keep the students writing journals and science journals in the shelfing unit(the two journals admin will be looking at closely this year).
Well, I better go. I think that's enough for now.
The attached photo is a picture I took of the Empire State Building viewed from Broadway.
Post Date - Saturday, October 18, 2008 9:38PM
Completion Date - Sunday, August 24, 2008 9:48PM
Another Shopping Day
Saturday, August 23rd.
Today my plan was to go to Canal Street to check out the handtrucks I've walked passed a few times. For the longest time, I've wanted a handtruck and a ladder for my classroom. When I first started teaching years ago, I bought this cheap convertable handtruck; I think I paid about $19 for it. That cheap handtruck lasted me about 10 years. In fact, I would still have it if I could have afforded to ship it back here when I returned to the US. I had to leave it in Japan. As for the ladder, I also had a two-step ladder that I also had to leave in Japan. Well, anyway in my spend-frenzy mode, I wanted those tools to help me with setting up my classroom. I hadn't thought (seriously) about the tools until I returned home with the bags from the teacher's store. This year, I want my walls and windows covered the way a couple of other teachers have their rooms done. As for the handtruck, it would have been very useful for the 20 boxes that I moved first to the side of the classroom than to the back of the room. I will also have to move about 10 desks and 10 chairs to my classroom due to the change in my class register. My roll is now 29 students.
Anyway, while I was on my way to Canal Street
In other words, its a place to get stuff cheap! While on my way to Canal Street, I thought about the couple of items that I missed purchasing yesterday at the teacher's store. I hadn't brought anything about U.S. Presidents. So I made a quick trip back to the teacher's store in Brooklyn.
Well, when I left the store....
I was $100.07 poorer.
When I arrived at the location of the handtrucks on Canal Street, I was surprised by the prices. I think the lowest was $160. I wanted a handtruck, but not that badly. I decided I would just go online.
From Canal Street, I decided to do a bit of walking. I walked passed a Staples(14th street) and realized that I needed "just a couple of things". When I left Staples...
I was $145.32 poorer.
When I returned home, I went online to see if Amazon.com had the handtruck and ladder. About $111 later, the answer was yes.
I didn't eat dinner because I stopped at the Waverly Diner again for my usually.
As for my reading. I didn't feel like started one of the approx. 800 page books, so I started reading the "I am Legend" paperback book by Richard Matheson.
Post Date - Monday, October 13, 2008 12:37PM
Completion Date - Sunday, August 24, 2008 12:44AM
Today my plan was to go to Canal Street to check out the handtrucks I've walked passed a few times. For the longest time, I've wanted a handtruck and a ladder for my classroom. When I first started teaching years ago, I bought this cheap convertable handtruck; I think I paid about $19 for it. That cheap handtruck lasted me about 10 years. In fact, I would still have it if I could have afforded to ship it back here when I returned to the US. I had to leave it in Japan. As for the ladder, I also had a two-step ladder that I also had to leave in Japan. Well, anyway in my spend-frenzy mode, I wanted those tools to help me with setting up my classroom. I hadn't thought (seriously) about the tools until I returned home with the bags from the teacher's store. This year, I want my walls and windows covered the way a couple of other teachers have their rooms done. As for the handtruck, it would have been very useful for the 20 boxes that I moved first to the side of the classroom than to the back of the room. I will also have to move about 10 desks and 10 chairs to my classroom due to the change in my class register. My roll is now 29 students.
Anyway, while I was on my way to Canal Street
Today, Canal Street is a bustling commercial district, crowded with low-rent (compared to other Manhattan real estate) open storefronts, and street vendors to the west; banks and jewelry shops to the east. Tourists as well as locals pack the Canal Street sidewalks every day to frequent the open-air food stalls and bare-bones stores selling items such as perfume, purses, hardware, and industrial plastics at very low prices. Many of these goods are grey market imports and many notoriously counterfeit, with fake trademarked brand names on electronics, clothing and personal accessories (including the fake Rolex watches that have become a Manhattan cliché). Pirated CDs and DVDs are very common, and offered for sale on the Canal Street sidewalks in makeshift stands and suitcases or simply laid out on bedsheets, often before they are even officially released in stores or the theater. Widespread sale of these counterfeit goods persists along Canal Street and in its hidden back rooms despite frequent police raids.[2]--according to Wikipedia.
In other words, its a place to get stuff cheap! While on my way to Canal Street, I thought about the couple of items that I missed purchasing yesterday at the teacher's store. I hadn't brought anything about U.S. Presidents. So I made a quick trip back to the teacher's store in Brooklyn.
Well, when I left the store....
I was $100.07 poorer.
When I arrived at the location of the handtrucks on Canal Street, I was surprised by the prices. I think the lowest was $160. I wanted a handtruck, but not that badly. I decided I would just go online.
From Canal Street, I decided to do a bit of walking. I walked passed a Staples(14th street) and realized that I needed "just a couple of things". When I left Staples...
I was $145.32 poorer.
When I returned home, I went online to see if Amazon.com had the handtruck and ladder. About $111 later, the answer was yes.
I didn't eat dinner because I stopped at the Waverly Diner again for my usually.
As for my reading. I didn't feel like started one of the approx. 800 page books, so I started reading the "I am Legend" paperback book by Richard Matheson.
Post Date - Monday, October 13, 2008 12:37PM
Completion Date - Sunday, August 24, 2008 12:44AM
Friday, August 22, 2008
School Shopping
Friday, August 22nd
Today was the beginning of my back to school prep. First I unpacked my granny cart that had been sitting in the exact same place since about June 30th...right next to the front door of my apartment. I have a bad habit of dragging that thing home full to the brim and not touching anything in it until the Monday morning I'm dragging it back to school.
Anyway, my granny cart needed to be emptied because I am renting a mover to help me move my classroom supplies and materials back to my classroom. Remember, I always pack as if I'm not coming back, but as you can see, I usually do.
Due to my unfortunate incident with the U-Haul, I was not willing to rent another U-Haul and drive back to school. So, I searched the internet, and found a "man with a van" ad. After a couple of tries, I found someone who was willing to charge about the same that it cost me to rent a U-Haul, and move the stuff myself. To bring the stuff home via U-Haul, I paid $66. The "man with a van" will be charging me $65. I got lucky!
After unpacking my granny cart, I then repacked the items in moving boxes. Why unpack the cart? I wanted to do some more shopping and it would have been easier to bring along my granny cart.
Anyway, after the packing, I took a bath, then went to the teacher's store in downtown Brooklyn. Ms. Across the Hall said that she would try to meet me there. After about 3 last minute cancellations, This time, I just text Ms. ATH with my schedule letting her know that I was going whether she came or not.
I arrived at the store at 2pm, Ms. ATH arrived about 2:30pm. When we were finished, we were both poor when we left...me much more so. Ms. ATH total came to about $170.
Mine?
\/
\/
Are you sure you want to know?
\/
\/
Or, I should say that I shouldn't embarass myself.
\/
\/
My total came to...
\/
\/
$434.40
I've spent about $1,100 so far and school hasn't even started.
So what did I buy:
8 plastic containers
1 Teacher's Plan Book
1 "What every 3rd grader needs to know"(reproducible book)
1 "Hispanic American Achievers" (reproducible book)
23 posters
4 rolls of bulletin board paper
6 packs of bulletin board borders
500 self-adhesive card pockets
500 loan cards
4 drill practice books
and the list goes on...
Last year, there were so many changes and improvement that I wanted to do, but do to the "disagreement" between my principal and the administrator of the Charter School that was taking over some of the rooms in the building -- including my old room. My materials and furniture was not finally moved until 12noon on the last preparation day before school was to start. I never recovered. Once school started, with the changes and confusion with the changes, I spent most of the school year trying to stay arms-length from the tidalwave of papers and materials that was always shadowing me. I spent the whole year playing catch up.
This year, I want it to be different:
I want a new look in my room.
I want a filing system in place.
I want my materials organized.
I want routines in place that keep my students on task.
I want respect.
Oh, what are the card and card pockets for? Last school year, my students treated my classroom library like a book store, when school was finished, I had about 3 or 4 empty baskets that were full of books at the beginning of the school year. This year, my classroom library will be like the public library. There will be a card and card pocket in the back of each book. Lose one, and that student will be cut off until someone replaces the book or pays for another one.
Ms. ATH and I rode the train back to Manhattan. Ms. ATH got off at 42nd street to meet her husband, I took the train all the way home.
When I returned home, I was in a good mood. I cooked dinner, and washed all of the dishes. I made spaghetti with (ground)turkey meat sauce.
Tomorrow....
I'm going shopping, but I won't embarass myself (anymore) with the specifics, now.
Post Date - Wednesday, October 1, 2008 8:51PM
Completion Date - Saturday, August 23, 2008 12:21AM
Today was the beginning of my back to school prep. First I unpacked my granny cart that had been sitting in the exact same place since about June 30th...right next to the front door of my apartment. I have a bad habit of dragging that thing home full to the brim and not touching anything in it until the Monday morning I'm dragging it back to school.
Anyway, my granny cart needed to be emptied because I am renting a mover to help me move my classroom supplies and materials back to my classroom. Remember, I always pack as if I'm not coming back, but as you can see, I usually do.
Due to my unfortunate incident with the U-Haul, I was not willing to rent another U-Haul and drive back to school. So, I searched the internet, and found a "man with a van" ad. After a couple of tries, I found someone who was willing to charge about the same that it cost me to rent a U-Haul, and move the stuff myself. To bring the stuff home via U-Haul, I paid $66. The "man with a van" will be charging me $65. I got lucky!
After unpacking my granny cart, I then repacked the items in moving boxes. Why unpack the cart? I wanted to do some more shopping and it would have been easier to bring along my granny cart.
Anyway, after the packing, I took a bath, then went to the teacher's store in downtown Brooklyn. Ms. Across the Hall said that she would try to meet me there. After about 3 last minute cancellations, This time, I just text Ms. ATH with my schedule letting her know that I was going whether she came or not.
I arrived at the store at 2pm, Ms. ATH arrived about 2:30pm. When we were finished, we were both poor when we left...me much more so. Ms. ATH total came to about $170.
Mine?
\/
\/
Are you sure you want to know?
\/
\/
Or, I should say that I shouldn't embarass myself.
\/
\/
My total came to...
\/
\/
$434.40
I've spent about $1,100 so far and school hasn't even started.
So what did I buy:
8 plastic containers
1 Teacher's Plan Book
1 "What every 3rd grader needs to know"(reproducible book)
1 "Hispanic American Achievers" (reproducible book)
23 posters
4 rolls of bulletin board paper
6 packs of bulletin board borders
500 self-adhesive card pockets
500 loan cards
4 drill practice books
and the list goes on...
Last year, there were so many changes and improvement that I wanted to do, but do to the "disagreement" between my principal and the administrator of the Charter School that was taking over some of the rooms in the building -- including my old room. My materials and furniture was not finally moved until 12noon on the last preparation day before school was to start. I never recovered. Once school started, with the changes and confusion with the changes, I spent most of the school year trying to stay arms-length from the tidalwave of papers and materials that was always shadowing me. I spent the whole year playing catch up.
This year, I want it to be different:
I want a new look in my room.
I want a filing system in place.
I want my materials organized.
I want routines in place that keep my students on task.
I want respect.
Oh, what are the card and card pockets for? Last school year, my students treated my classroom library like a book store, when school was finished, I had about 3 or 4 empty baskets that were full of books at the beginning of the school year. This year, my classroom library will be like the public library. There will be a card and card pocket in the back of each book. Lose one, and that student will be cut off until someone replaces the book or pays for another one.
Ms. ATH and I rode the train back to Manhattan. Ms. ATH got off at 42nd street to meet her husband, I took the train all the way home.
When I returned home, I was in a good mood. I cooked dinner, and washed all of the dishes. I made spaghetti with (ground)turkey meat sauce.
Tomorrow....
I'm going shopping, but I won't embarass myself (anymore) with the specifics, now.
Post Date - Wednesday, October 1, 2008 8:51PM
Completion Date - Saturday, August 23, 2008 12:21AM
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Lazy Day
Boxing lessons are on hold for the time being. After skipping my boxing lesson last Thursday, it got easier to skip. Yesterday, I called in to let them know that I would not be coming. Today, I just wasn't in the mood. I will call them again. The owner(or she is the wife of the owner) had told me when I signed up that she would be calling if I missed a couple of days, I guess that wasn't true.
I didn't do much of anything today (or yesterday), I got out of bed about 12:30pm, had a bowl of cereal, and spent the rest of the day online. Today I spent about $400 at Staples online. School has not even started yet and I've already spent about $700 on my classroom(including the book order I did a couple of weeks ago). One of the items I ordered today were a couple of wheel trays for file cabinets. The trays are metal frames with wheels; just put your 2-draw file cabinet on it and you will have a mobile file cabinet. I brought one for home and one for my classroom. It will be especially useful at home. I will be able to clean the floor much easier with it. I need to get a grip on my classroom spending, I haven't even been to the teacher's store yet to buy bulletin board paper and other basic supplies for this school year. I will try to stay within a $200 budget when I go to the teacher's store...as if I really knew what "budget" meant.
Post Date - Tuesday, September 30, 2008 11:22AM
I didn't do much of anything today (or yesterday), I got out of bed about 12:30pm, had a bowl of cereal, and spent the rest of the day online. Today I spent about $400 at Staples online. School has not even started yet and I've already spent about $700 on my classroom(including the book order I did a couple of weeks ago). One of the items I ordered today were a couple of wheel trays for file cabinets. The trays are metal frames with wheels; just put your 2-draw file cabinet on it and you will have a mobile file cabinet. I brought one for home and one for my classroom. It will be especially useful at home. I will be able to clean the floor much easier with it. I need to get a grip on my classroom spending, I haven't even been to the teacher's store yet to buy bulletin board paper and other basic supplies for this school year. I will try to stay within a $200 budget when I go to the teacher's store...as if I really knew what "budget" meant.
Post Date - Tuesday, September 30, 2008 11:22AM
Finishing the Henry Hudson River Greenway Walk
I accidentally posted "the Cloister Museum" blog entry before a couple of other entries (including this one).
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The meeting time was 2:30p.m. I arrived about 2:10p.m. Vpal arrived about 2:35p.m. We started from the 14th street where we had left off from the previous week. The walk was okay. I wasn't really in the mood for a walk, but it was still an okay walk. Unfortunately, the photos really didn't come out that great. I thought the Cloister photos came out really nice, but there just wasn't a lot of interesting things to take pictures of. Everything seem to have one type of an obstical or another. When we arrived at the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, I told Vpal that since I missed his birthday, I would buy him a veggie burger meal at the local diner mention on this blog from time to time. So, we walked back to West 4th Street. For dinner I had the turkey burger, and Vpal had a veggie burger. I don't know why but the meal was not as good as it had been in the past. My turkey burger was a bit dry. Both the bacon and the bun were also hard and dry. After the meal, went our separate ways agreeing to meet next weekend for a walk up Broadway. In total we walked about 5 miles.
Once again, I missed the MN train, so I took the 9:04 express train and walked home from Yonkers (adding about another 25 minute walk).
When I arrived home, the first thing I did was to clean my bathtub so that I could soak in the tub so that I am not too stiff tomorrow to go to the gym.
The attached picture was taken of New Jersey on the other side of the Hudson River.
Post Date - Saturday, September 27, 2008 4:22PM
Completion Date - Sunday, August 17, 2008 10:50PM
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The meeting time was 2:30p.m. I arrived about 2:10p.m. Vpal arrived about 2:35p.m. We started from the 14th street where we had left off from the previous week. The walk was okay. I wasn't really in the mood for a walk, but it was still an okay walk. Unfortunately, the photos really didn't come out that great. I thought the Cloister photos came out really nice, but there just wasn't a lot of interesting things to take pictures of. Everything seem to have one type of an obstical or another. When we arrived at the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, I told Vpal that since I missed his birthday, I would buy him a veggie burger meal at the local diner mention on this blog from time to time. So, we walked back to West 4th Street. For dinner I had the turkey burger, and Vpal had a veggie burger. I don't know why but the meal was not as good as it had been in the past. My turkey burger was a bit dry. Both the bacon and the bun were also hard and dry. After the meal, went our separate ways agreeing to meet next weekend for a walk up Broadway. In total we walked about 5 miles.
Once again, I missed the MN train, so I took the 9:04 express train and walked home from Yonkers (adding about another 25 minute walk).
When I arrived home, the first thing I did was to clean my bathtub so that I could soak in the tub so that I am not too stiff tomorrow to go to the gym.
The attached picture was taken of New Jersey on the other side of the Hudson River.
Post Date - Saturday, September 27, 2008 4:22PM
Completion Date - Sunday, August 17, 2008 10:50PM
The Cloisters Museum
Today started about 9:00a.m. After breakfast of a bowl of cold cereal, and a relaxed soak in the tub, I was out for a day at the Cloisters Museum with one of my epals.
The meeting time was 12noon at the 190th street "A" train station. I arrived about 11:40a.m., my epal arrived about 12:30p.m. We walked through Fort Tryon Park to the museum. The suggested entrance fee was $20. I paid $15, and my epal paid $5. Later, I spent $2.75 for a bottle of water that would have cost $1 outside the museum. We spent about 4 hours walking through the museum. We left about 4:30p.m. The museum was nice, but there were a lot of people in the museum, which made taking pictures more difficult than taking pictures outdoors. At times, I had to wait 5 to 10 minutes just to get what I call a "clear" picture (meaning a picture without anyone in it). Some people were just oblivious to a guy holding up a camera to take a picture. Picture taking was allow, but flash was not. We could only take pictures without flash. I took about 116 pictures in and around the Cloisters. I will post a few of them in a slideshow at another time.
After the museum, we went to a local restaurant. I had a vegetable lasagna, my epal had a turkey burger with fries. For dessert, I had a piece of a triple layer carrot cake, my epal had a a piece of a chocolate mousse cake. After the restaurant, my epal said that she had to go, so we each headed home.
When I arrived home, at first, I wanted to try to do some exercising, but I was too tired. I only was able to do a few of the basic warm ups.
Post Date - Monday, September 22, 2008 12:10AM
Completion Date - Sunday, August 17, 2008 12:06AM
Monday, August 18, 2008
Hudson River Museum - Slideshow
Below is a slideshow of pictures I took in and around the Hudson River Museum.
Post Date - Saturday, September 20, 2008 12:35PM
Post Date - Saturday, September 20, 2008 12:35PM
Friday, August 15, 2008
Hudson River Museum
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Today the plan was to meet Ms. Across the Hall to go see a movie. For the non-regular blog readers Ms. ATH is the teacher who also taught third grade right across the hall. She suggested several weeks ago, that we should see a movie. But she seems to cancel with a a bit of a frequency:First she had to leave out of town. She chose the day, and agreed to the place. But did not let me know until about a couple of days after that she was out of town.
Then, she cancelled the day before the next agreed day because she had to take her kids to the doctor for a regular check up.
Today. Just as I was about to leave to catch my MN train, she called, but by the time I figured out the buttons on my new cell phone, she had left a message saying that she would have to bring her kids with her and hoped it was okay. She also stated that either way she was going. Since I had only a couple of minutes, I was going to response after I caught my train, but I missed the train. My back up plan was to take the bus, but I had to walk quickly because the bus sometimes arrived at the stop up the hill around the same time. If I had caught the train, I would have been very early, but with the bus I would have been on time. Anyway, once I arrived at the bus stop, I called Ms. ATH. From the call, she changed her mind because there was a storm coming, and her husband didn't want her to bring the kids out of the house because of the storm. So, the meeting for the movie was cancelled again. To be honest, I was annoyed at the last minute change and cancellation...again.*
* However, husband turned out to have been correct. There was a bit of a serious storm here in the NYC area that caused a bit of a mess.
At first bored me was going to call an epal to see if he was interested in doing something like see a movie. However, I thought it might not be a good idea if the person thought he was a (last minute) backup plan.
Next plan, was to go to the mall and see a movie. But, I changed it.
I finally decided that I should be taking advantage of my vacation, not doing my safe routine repetition. So, I went to the Hudson River Museum.
I've lived in Yonkers for about 3 years before I moved to Japan, and about 2 years after I returned, but I have not been to the museum that is right in my neighborhood.
Admission was $5. The museum was okay. I also liked that the museum was very empty except for a very few people.
First up was the Anna Richards Brewster exhibition. No picture taking was allowed.
Next, I went to the Red Grooms: The Bookstore. This was a walk in (and through) art exhibition made mostly out of papier mache and plastic. The structure was of a bookstore.
In the basement was a small exhibition about the Hudson River. It was a nice interactive exhibition.
The last part was the visit to the mansion on the museum property that used to house the museum. When the museum outgrew the mansion, they just built a more modern building around the old mansion. There was no picture taking allowed in the main museum building, but lucky, I was allowed to take pictures (no flash) in the mansion. Having never been in a mansion, it was an enjoyable experience to walk around the mansion. And, I was practically the only one in the mansion for most of the time I was there. I will attach my photos at another time.
I stayed about 2 hours in the Hudson River Museum. It was a nice experience, I enjoyed myself.
After the museum, I thought about going to the movies, but the sky started to darken, and by the time I had gotten my newspaper, it started to rain....very hard. It turned out to be a serious storm with a couple of tornado warnings.
I stayed in, read my newspaper and watched TV.
Tomorrow, I have a meeting with an epal to visit the Cloister Museum.
Post Date - Thursday, September 18, 2008 3:16AM
Completion Date - Friday, August 15, 2008 11:25PM
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Boxing Lesson - Day 7 "Waste of time and money"
Today I put two options to mind, I told myself that I should clean my living room, or I should return the chain store boxing gloves. For the last couple of days, my days have been incredibly short. Today I wanted to change that. I wanted to at least do something other than sleep til noon, sit at the computer, go to the gym, and my day is over.
I decided to return the boxing gloves. When I went to the mall, the first thing I did was check the movie theater to see what was playing, but since I had to return home in enough time to pack for the gym, I did not bother with the movie.
First stop was the chain (sports) store to return the gloves. Along with the return, I also bought:
2 pair of gym shorts
An exercise mat for home
I bought the shorts because I was too lazy to do the laundry. The mat was for the exercises that I am suppose to be doing at home. I have hardwood floors, so a mat will help.
After the sports store, I went to Panda Express for lunch. Then at Target store, I bought:
* gym bag - this one holds its shape better when empty
* cutting board - until now, I've been cutting on a dinner plate
* memory chip for my camera - I want all of my "getting in shape" photos on its own
* cell phone case - new phone needs a case
* shelf - for my locker
* book - Artemis Fowl (Graphic Novel)
After Target, I stopped in Barnes and Noble. I wanted to just see if they had any books on boxing. I ended up buying:
* Fighting Fit:Boxing Workouts Techniques and Sparring. I really like this book better than the other book I bought. This book starts with the gear and goes through the various skills, and even includes weight training. A complete routine. Something I'm not getting, not by a long shot.
I returned home about 3:30pm. I had enough time to run an iron over my hand wraps, and pack up for gym. I forgot to bring my weight training book so that I could make copies of the workout charts. I also had time to eat a Healthy Choice Panini sandwich. Not a good idea.
For the last few days, I've had a panini sandwich about 4pm right before I left for the gym. My workout with my "private trainer" starts at 6pm. So enough time to digest and have the energy to do the workout. When I don't have anything to eat before the workout, I can sometimes feel weak.
Anyway, with the Panda meal, and the panini, and having felt a bit tired from rushing this morning to catch the train, I really was not feeling up to a workout. However, you know me, I am the prince of procrastination. I really didn't want to give myself an excuse to miss my workout, with school starting soon, I want a routine in place so that I can continue to go with very little disruption.
When I arrived at the gym -- I usually arrive early, so I waited until 6pm. I arrived only to wait 3 or 4 minutes while my trainer did someone else's hand wraps. When he was ready, I explained that I wasn't really feeling in the mood for a workout, but I would try to do my best. My trainer said that he would go easy on me. My workout proceeded as follows:
Stomach crunches (5 or 6 sets of 25)
Trunk twist (60)
Push ups (5)
Stomach crunch machine (5 sets of 10 reps)*
* When I was at my 4th rep, my trainer did his disappearing act to help. He had told me to finish my last set, and meet him over by the punching bag. However, he was not expecting me to finish as quickly. I took about 30 seconds to finish. When I arrived, my trainer had just started wrapping another persons hands, while he wrapped, I sat (and waited).
Next, was boxing practice. This time, my trainer did try to simplify the punching combinations, but really wasn't in the mood for more hit the bag with a combination then move routine over and over while he sat and said nothing. For about 25 minutes, my trainer just gave me various punching combinations and said nothing. Even when I knew I wasn't doing it right, still he said nothing. Eventually, I got bored, and just walked in circles around bag and poked at the bag and he still said nothing. He must have been annoyed; he yanked off my gloves and pointed to the treadmill...again saying nothing. I really was not in the mood for a boxing lesson, so I was not too upset.
So what now? I'm not really counting today's lesson because like I said, I really wasn't in the mood for a boxing lesson, although the trainer should have said something. I think I threw a bit of a tantrum and the trainer seemed more than willing to humor me. I spent about 15 minutes (after giving up) just walking around the bag in circles tapping the bag. So again, what now?
Well, I finally finished reading DS9 - Twist of Faith. The book was okay. Although I knew that it was a collection of several books in one volume, I thought the choices should have matched up better. I thought all of the books created a story arch, but it was more like one episode after another with some overlapping, but the story left several loose treads. Which means, one would have to keep buying the books. That's why I don't like series. I like stories to have a (preferably a happy) ending. Sorry, I got sidetracked.
Now, that I'm finished with the DS9 book, I will spend the next couple days going through the boxing and weight training book. I will see if I can come up with a workout routine. As for my trainer, he is now at strike two.
Post Date - Sunday, September 14, 2008 12:18AM
Completion Date - Wednesday, August 13, 2008 12:37AM
I decided to return the boxing gloves. When I went to the mall, the first thing I did was check the movie theater to see what was playing, but since I had to return home in enough time to pack for the gym, I did not bother with the movie.
First stop was the chain (sports) store to return the gloves. Along with the return, I also bought:
2 pair of gym shorts
An exercise mat for home
I bought the shorts because I was too lazy to do the laundry. The mat was for the exercises that I am suppose to be doing at home. I have hardwood floors, so a mat will help.
After the sports store, I went to Panda Express for lunch. Then at Target store, I bought:
* gym bag - this one holds its shape better when empty
* cutting board - until now, I've been cutting on a dinner plate
* memory chip for my camera - I want all of my "getting in shape" photos on its own
* cell phone case - new phone needs a case
* shelf - for my locker
* book - Artemis Fowl (Graphic Novel)
After Target, I stopped in Barnes and Noble. I wanted to just see if they had any books on boxing. I ended up buying:
* Fighting Fit:Boxing Workouts Techniques and Sparring. I really like this book better than the other book I bought. This book starts with the gear and goes through the various skills, and even includes weight training. A complete routine. Something I'm not getting, not by a long shot.
I returned home about 3:30pm. I had enough time to run an iron over my hand wraps, and pack up for gym. I forgot to bring my weight training book so that I could make copies of the workout charts. I also had time to eat a Healthy Choice Panini sandwich. Not a good idea.
For the last few days, I've had a panini sandwich about 4pm right before I left for the gym. My workout with my "private trainer" starts at 6pm. So enough time to digest and have the energy to do the workout. When I don't have anything to eat before the workout, I can sometimes feel weak.
Anyway, with the Panda meal, and the panini, and having felt a bit tired from rushing this morning to catch the train, I really was not feeling up to a workout. However, you know me, I am the prince of procrastination. I really didn't want to give myself an excuse to miss my workout, with school starting soon, I want a routine in place so that I can continue to go with very little disruption.
When I arrived at the gym -- I usually arrive early, so I waited until 6pm. I arrived only to wait 3 or 4 minutes while my trainer did someone else's hand wraps. When he was ready, I explained that I wasn't really feeling in the mood for a workout, but I would try to do my best. My trainer said that he would go easy on me. My workout proceeded as follows:
Stomach crunches (5 or 6 sets of 25)
Trunk twist (60)
Push ups (5)
Stomach crunch machine (5 sets of 10 reps)*
* When I was at my 4th rep, my trainer did his disappearing act to help. He had told me to finish my last set, and meet him over by the punching bag. However, he was not expecting me to finish as quickly. I took about 30 seconds to finish. When I arrived, my trainer had just started wrapping another persons hands, while he wrapped, I sat (and waited).
Next, was boxing practice. This time, my trainer did try to simplify the punching combinations, but really wasn't in the mood for more hit the bag with a combination then move routine over and over while he sat and said nothing. For about 25 minutes, my trainer just gave me various punching combinations and said nothing. Even when I knew I wasn't doing it right, still he said nothing. Eventually, I got bored, and just walked in circles around bag and poked at the bag and he still said nothing. He must have been annoyed; he yanked off my gloves and pointed to the treadmill...again saying nothing. I really was not in the mood for a boxing lesson, so I was not too upset.
So what now? I'm not really counting today's lesson because like I said, I really wasn't in the mood for a boxing lesson, although the trainer should have said something. I think I threw a bit of a tantrum and the trainer seemed more than willing to humor me. I spent about 15 minutes (after giving up) just walking around the bag in circles tapping the bag. So again, what now?
Well, I finally finished reading DS9 - Twist of Faith. The book was okay. Although I knew that it was a collection of several books in one volume, I thought the choices should have matched up better. I thought all of the books created a story arch, but it was more like one episode after another with some overlapping, but the story left several loose treads. Which means, one would have to keep buying the books. That's why I don't like series. I like stories to have a (preferably a happy) ending. Sorry, I got sidetracked.
Now, that I'm finished with the DS9 book, I will spend the next couple days going through the boxing and weight training book. I will see if I can come up with a workout routine. As for my trainer, he is now at strike two.
Post Date - Sunday, September 14, 2008 12:18AM
Completion Date - Wednesday, August 13, 2008 12:37AM
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Boxing Lesson - Day 6
Another shortened day. I was up and out of bed about 1pm. The internet was down for some reason, so I played a bit of solitaire. I did a few exercises that my trainer said that I should be doing everyday at home. Then it was time to go to the gym. What a waste of a vacation!!!
Arrived at the gym about 6pm. My trainer fell back to some of his old habits. He didn't teach anything new, just more of the same:
30 minutes of:
Stomach Crunches
Toe Touches
Push Ups
30 minutes of:
Bag work - 3 or 4 sets of either "do your own thing", or a 4 combination punch (while circling the bag)-
6 punches in rapped succesion, move, then 2 jabs and a right punch, move, then 1 jab and 1 right punch, move, then 2 right punches, then repeat.
And again, he does his disappearing act or his back to the client (paying for private lessons) while helping someone else(who probably didn't pay for private lessons). I finally had to say that the punch combination was too confusing for a beginner.
Tomorrow I will have to bring in my Weight Training book I bought from Barnes and Nobles months ago. Once I have the weight training routine established, then I will bring in my Boxing book I bought a couple of months ago.
I returned home, and reheated leftover spaghetti and I steam some green beans. Today was the second day I managed to have steamed vegetables for dinner. I hope I can keep it up. I also managed to wash the dishes and take out the garbage.
Post Date - Friday, September 12, 2008 5:21AM
Completion Date - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:00PM
Arrived at the gym about 6pm. My trainer fell back to some of his old habits. He didn't teach anything new, just more of the same:
30 minutes of:
Stomach Crunches
Toe Touches
Push Ups
30 minutes of:
Bag work - 3 or 4 sets of either "do your own thing", or a 4 combination punch (while circling the bag)-
6 punches in rapped succesion, move, then 2 jabs and a right punch, move, then 1 jab and 1 right punch, move, then 2 right punches, then repeat.
And again, he does his disappearing act or his back to the client (paying for private lessons) while helping someone else(who probably didn't pay for private lessons). I finally had to say that the punch combination was too confusing for a beginner.
Tomorrow I will have to bring in my Weight Training book I bought from Barnes and Nobles months ago. Once I have the weight training routine established, then I will bring in my Boxing book I bought a couple of months ago.
I returned home, and reheated leftover spaghetti and I steam some green beans. Today was the second day I managed to have steamed vegetables for dinner. I hope I can keep it up. I also managed to wash the dishes and take out the garbage.
Post Date - Friday, September 12, 2008 5:21AM
Completion Date - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:00PM
Monday, August 11, 2008
Boxing Lesson - Day 5 & Coney Island
Today was another slow day. I was online for a few hours, then it was time for the gym.
Today my trainer seemed a bit more attentive. The first 30 minutes, I did exercises to work on my stomach. And my trainer focused on me for the entire time. After, I did 30 minutes on the punching bag. Lastly, since each of the treadmills were in used, I did 30 minutes on a stair machine.
My session was better than previous lessons last week, but my trainer does have room for improvement. He still didn't seem to understand the idea of weight training. He knows boxing, and he seems to know how to train a boxer, but doesn't seem to know what to do with a chunky client with no sports experience. I'll probably have to bring in my weight training book. I will also need to start charting my progress.
Yesterday, I went went to Coney Island. When I got home, I was too tired to blog about it, so I'll have to summarize it now.
I signed up for one of those group
Meeting time was 1pm.
I was 20 minutes early
Only 4 other guys showed up (including the host).
On the web site, about 10~15 people said that they would come (both male and female)
Although the weather report said there was a chance of rain, the sky was relatively clear. We waited for about 30 minutes for late comers, but none showed. Next, a couple of the guys wanted to go to Nathan's, but I thought that if I was going on the Cyclone rollercoaster ride, I should do it on an empty stomach. After the others ate their meal, it started to rain.The group decided to walk around the area. We also decided to visit a small museum about the history of Coney Island. The museum was only 99 cents. The museum was okay, basically, you got what you paid for. A single dusty old room, with a few broken items from Coney Island's past. After walking around the museum, and killing time while deciding what to do next (while the rain still fell on and off). An extremely boring, and bit strange lecture started about renewable energy and society's responsibility. After about an hour, we left. After walking around more, we finally ended the event. We all went our separate ways about 6pm. I took the train to 14th street to eat dinner at the Waverly Diner I've mentioned a few times. I like their service. I told myself that I would get serious about eating healthy and exercising on Monday, so this would be my last junk food meal in a while...I hope. I had a burger deluxe with onion rings, and a large orange juice. For desert, I had a slice of cherry pie and a walnut sundae.
After dinner, I went to the movie; I saw "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor". I really wasn't impressed with the movie. I thought it dragged, and didn't really excite me. I thought of the movie as a fairly nice time killer. Basically, I watched with a consistant "this has been done before" feeling.
I was back home about 11pm.
Post Date - Tuesday, September 9, 2008 12:33AM
Completion Date - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 11:26PM
Friday, August 08, 2008
Mall Walk & The Dark Knight
Today my plan was to take back the "chain store" boxing gloves I bought before I went to the sports store and bought the leather ones. To be honest, I like the cheap plastic ones better, but I think the leather ones are better quality.
I was up and out of my apartment about 1:40p.m. I walked to my bank to finally deposit my tax refund and my federal economic stimulus check. I also deposited a check for a missed prep period. From downtown Yonkers, I took the express train north so that I could go to the mall; I arrived about 2:30p.m. Once in the mall, the first thing I did was check the movie schedule, and to my surprise, the IMAX theater area was empty, and The Dark Knight was not sold out. I bought my ticket for the 3:30p.m. showing. Since I had an hour to kill, I went to Panda Express in the food court. After lunch, I went to Barnes & Nobles; I bought The Mighty Avengers - The Ultron Initiative.
After B&N, it was about 3:15p.m. I told myself that I should go to the IMAX theater early to get a good seat just in case. I arrived to find a line waiting to go into the theater. The theater was packed with only a few empty seats. So, how was the movie?
I liked the Dark Knight movie. I thought all of the actors did a very good job. The movie was 2 and a half hours long. I thought the script was well-written. Being a bit slow, there were parts that were a bit too fast paced for me to grasp, but I eventually caught up. It was a good movie. I liked the layering they did for the plot; it kept the audience guessing till the end.
After the movie, I headed over to the Target store. I bought a mini table top tripod. I think I'm going to try the visual motivator I saw on the internet. A guy took a picture of himself everyday for about 180 days (I think). The guy went from a chunky to a fit guy. It was interesting seeing the slideshow of the guy morph from flab to fit in just a few months. Sorry, I didn't bookmark the page, and now I can't remember how I found the page.
After Target, it was time to catch my bus. I was feeling in a good mood. I brought a so called "sundae" but since I couldn't remember what ingrediants went into the sundae -- the mall stall was charging about 61 cents for each thing added. The sundae was basically a soft cream in a paper cup. I also had 2 donuts from Dunkin Donuts. I told myself that this weekend would be my last for unhealthy foods at least for a couple of months.
I returned home about 8:30. I took the express train back to Yonkers, and walked the rest of the way home. I had to call my cell phone company to activate my phone. For dinner, I ate the other half of my Subway $5 footlong.
Post Date - Saturday, September 6, 2008 10:18PM
Completion Date - Friday, August 8, 2008 11:42PM
Boxing Lesson - Day 4 "Wimp Out"
Thursday, August 7th
Today went by fairly quickly. I finally dragged myself out of bed about 1pm. Cold cereal for breakfast, and a couple of hours on the computer, then it was time for the gym.
My trainer wanted to know if I did the exercises he showed me yesterday. I told him no, because my plan was to ask for a different trainer. However, I thought about the couple of times I've been blindsided. I also didn't really speak up to voice my displeasure. I mostly keep things bottle up and of course you readers know that I like to vent here through the ether of anonymity.
Anyway, my trainer said that he would take it easy on me today. I just nodded okay, but didn't say anything. He did my handwraps, and assigned me specific boxing punch combinations on the heavy bag (also known as the punching bag). I did the punching combinations for 45 minutes. Most of the time, my trainer focused on me; he still kind of sat back without much input. Once he told me what to do, he made no comments about if I was doing it right or wrong. I suspect that I got the extra attention because the gym was not as crowded as it had been the last few days.
After the punching practice, my trainer told me to do the treadmill for 45 minutes. After the treadmill, I spoke to the trainer. I explained how I was not happy with what I was getting for my almost $300. I also explained that I was speaking to him about my feelings about the training I had been receiving. I went on the explain how I felt that it would have been a disrespectful slap in the face if I just ran to his boss to complain without first speaking to him and letting him know what I was feeling. I then explained the type of workout I wanted starting on Monday. I was annoyed that I paid for a month of private lessons, but now, I will be in a kind of lesson planner. I thought private lesson would mean that I would walk in and be the pile of clay to be molded and shaped. Now, I'll be "suggesting" the exercises, keeping track of the progress, etc...
My "suggested" workout routine:
30 minutes - exercising and strength training*
30 minutes - boxing lessons/practicing
30 minutes - walking/jogging on the treadmill
*Alternating upper and lower body workouts
I explained that as a beginner, I should be getting in shape and building my strength in order to be able to effectively do the various punching patterns and boxing routines. I said the first month the focus should be more on getting in shape, but in the coming months, the focus would shift to more boxing routines and patterns. We'll see what happens on Monday. After the conversation, I was feeling a bit better about my gym experience. I also learned a bit more about my trainer. He used to have a boxing gym in Brooklyn.
Finally, on the internet, there was a guy who took a picture of himself each day for (I think) 80 days. I think I might like to try something like that. However, I think I will only do it for (maybe) 50 days until my 40th birthday. I saw a nice little mini tabletop tripod in the store. I'll think about it. It would be nice to enter my 40th birthday with a different look.
Post Date - Saturday, September 6, 2008 2:43AM
Completion Date - Friday, August 8, 2008 1:10AM
Today went by fairly quickly. I finally dragged myself out of bed about 1pm. Cold cereal for breakfast, and a couple of hours on the computer, then it was time for the gym.
My trainer wanted to know if I did the exercises he showed me yesterday. I told him no, because my plan was to ask for a different trainer. However, I thought about the couple of times I've been blindsided. I also didn't really speak up to voice my displeasure. I mostly keep things bottle up and of course you readers know that I like to vent here through the ether of anonymity.
Anyway, my trainer said that he would take it easy on me today. I just nodded okay, but didn't say anything. He did my handwraps, and assigned me specific boxing punch combinations on the heavy bag (also known as the punching bag). I did the punching combinations for 45 minutes. Most of the time, my trainer focused on me; he still kind of sat back without much input. Once he told me what to do, he made no comments about if I was doing it right or wrong. I suspect that I got the extra attention because the gym was not as crowded as it had been the last few days.
After the punching practice, my trainer told me to do the treadmill for 45 minutes. After the treadmill, I spoke to the trainer. I explained how I was not happy with what I was getting for my almost $300. I also explained that I was speaking to him about my feelings about the training I had been receiving. I went on the explain how I felt that it would have been a disrespectful slap in the face if I just ran to his boss to complain without first speaking to him and letting him know what I was feeling. I then explained the type of workout I wanted starting on Monday. I was annoyed that I paid for a month of private lessons, but now, I will be in a kind of lesson planner. I thought private lesson would mean that I would walk in and be the pile of clay to be molded and shaped. Now, I'll be "suggesting" the exercises, keeping track of the progress, etc...
My "suggested" workout routine:
30 minutes - exercising and strength training*
30 minutes - boxing lessons/practicing
30 minutes - walking/jogging on the treadmill
*Alternating upper and lower body workouts
I explained that as a beginner, I should be getting in shape and building my strength in order to be able to effectively do the various punching patterns and boxing routines. I said the first month the focus should be more on getting in shape, but in the coming months, the focus would shift to more boxing routines and patterns. We'll see what happens on Monday. After the conversation, I was feeling a bit better about my gym experience. I also learned a bit more about my trainer. He used to have a boxing gym in Brooklyn.
Finally, on the internet, there was a guy who took a picture of himself each day for (I think) 80 days. I think I might like to try something like that. However, I think I will only do it for (maybe) 50 days until my 40th birthday. I saw a nice little mini tabletop tripod in the store. I'll think about it. It would be nice to enter my 40th birthday with a different look.
Post Date - Saturday, September 6, 2008 2:43AM
Completion Date - Friday, August 8, 2008 1:10AM
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Three Strikes...Boxing Lesson - Day 3
Wednesday, August 6th
Today I started off with the swollen and stiff left knee that started once I sat down at the computer last night. This morning I was in a bit of a mood worrying about another failed attempt at getting in shape. I also had a bout of "What ifs...".
I spent most of the day hobbling around my apartment worrying, and feeling a bit depressed. I wanted to soak in the bath (hoping that would help), but I was expecting two deliveries, so I did not bother with a bath.
First delivery was my new cell phone. My other cell was either lost or stolen. I walked down to Circuit City on 14th street after the boxing lesson on Monday, but they did not have the one I wanted. They had the floor model, but none in stock. After also trying the "Mobile Best Buys" across the street, and even contemplating going to Target, it occurred to me that I could just order one from the company's website. I ordered FedEx Overnight, it came today about 1:00pm. Since I want to keep the phone number that I already have -- I also want to keep the minutes as well, it will take about 2 days to make the transfer. If I were willing to change numbers, then my new phone would be working already. But, since I treat my cell phone as my primary contact phone, it would have been a bit of a hassle to let everyone know that I had a new phone number. I'll attach a picture on my new phone. I have a prepaid phone, so I have to buy my minutes in advance. Being a bit stubborn, I really don't want to deal with those nickel and diming phone contracts.
The second delivery was from my online grocery order. Last night, I ordered about $197 worth of food and paper products. Some of the items I bought in bulk and I didn't feel like trugging out to drag that stuff home. I also bought a steamer basket. My new plan is to steam the vegetables that are now frozen because I was too lazy to cook them when they were fresh.
Today was my third boxing lesson. So how was it? Remember, I paid $280 for a one month's worth of private lessons (3~4 per week). So what am I getting. I think today's lesson sums it up:
I arrived at 6:00p.m. I was told to do 45 minutes on the treadmill --the posted sign on all four treadmilla was 30 max. My trainer, opposite side of the gym. After, I sat and waited for my trainer to finish setting up another student with her wraps and gloves. Next up, various kinds of stomach crunches (sets of 20 each). Next, 100 toe touches, while my trainer worked with someone else. Next, 100 twists with a exercise bar, while my trainer (with his back to me) was watching another student spar. Lastly, I was asked to step in the ring, and shadow box (no gloves, no wraps, just throw punches in the air) for 15 minutes (while he was helping another student -- a student I'm sure probably did not pay for private lessons. When my trainer sensed my annoyance, he told me to get my wraps and gloves. While I struggle with the approx. 5ft long ribbons that have to be wrapped around each hand -- I had only been shown once. My trainer was helping another student. Instead of shadow boxing with thin air, I was now asked to hit the punching bag for a solid 15 minutes with no break. When I finished, I told my trainer that I wanted a new trainer. I think my trainer is very knowledgeable about boxing. And, I believe he does know how to train someone with some boxing abilities. But I am a slow learning beginner.
When I finished my boxing lesson, I really wanted to leave and not come back. But I think the best thing to do would be to be direct and tell my trainer the reasons why I want a new trainer. I don't think it would be a fair thing to just complain to his boss without giving him the respect of letting him know beforehand.
After gym, I was in one of my moods. A quick stop to Subway for a footlong tuna sandwich, juice, and 3 macadamia cookies.
Post Date - Wednesday, September 3, 2008 9:57PM
Completion Date - Wednesday, August 6, 2008 11:54PM
Today I started off with the swollen and stiff left knee that started once I sat down at the computer last night. This morning I was in a bit of a mood worrying about another failed attempt at getting in shape. I also had a bout of "What ifs...".
I spent most of the day hobbling around my apartment worrying, and feeling a bit depressed. I wanted to soak in the bath (hoping that would help), but I was expecting two deliveries, so I did not bother with a bath.
First delivery was my new cell phone. My other cell was either lost or stolen. I walked down to Circuit City on 14th street after the boxing lesson on Monday, but they did not have the one I wanted. They had the floor model, but none in stock. After also trying the "Mobile Best Buys" across the street, and even contemplating going to Target, it occurred to me that I could just order one from the company's website. I ordered FedEx Overnight, it came today about 1:00pm. Since I want to keep the phone number that I already have -- I also want to keep the minutes as well, it will take about 2 days to make the transfer. If I were willing to change numbers, then my new phone would be working already. But, since I treat my cell phone as my primary contact phone, it would have been a bit of a hassle to let everyone know that I had a new phone number. I'll attach a picture on my new phone. I have a prepaid phone, so I have to buy my minutes in advance. Being a bit stubborn, I really don't want to deal with those nickel and diming phone contracts.
The second delivery was from my online grocery order. Last night, I ordered about $197 worth of food and paper products. Some of the items I bought in bulk and I didn't feel like trugging out to drag that stuff home. I also bought a steamer basket. My new plan is to steam the vegetables that are now frozen because I was too lazy to cook them when they were fresh.
Today was my third boxing lesson. So how was it? Remember, I paid $280 for a one month's worth of private lessons (3~4 per week). So what am I getting. I think today's lesson sums it up:
I arrived at 6:00p.m. I was told to do 45 minutes on the treadmill --the posted sign on all four treadmilla was 30 max. My trainer, opposite side of the gym. After, I sat and waited for my trainer to finish setting up another student with her wraps and gloves. Next up, various kinds of stomach crunches (sets of 20 each). Next, 100 toe touches, while my trainer worked with someone else. Next, 100 twists with a exercise bar, while my trainer (with his back to me) was watching another student spar. Lastly, I was asked to step in the ring, and shadow box (no gloves, no wraps, just throw punches in the air) for 15 minutes (while he was helping another student -- a student I'm sure probably did not pay for private lessons. When my trainer sensed my annoyance, he told me to get my wraps and gloves. While I struggle with the approx. 5ft long ribbons that have to be wrapped around each hand -- I had only been shown once. My trainer was helping another student. Instead of shadow boxing with thin air, I was now asked to hit the punching bag for a solid 15 minutes with no break. When I finished, I told my trainer that I wanted a new trainer. I think my trainer is very knowledgeable about boxing. And, I believe he does know how to train someone with some boxing abilities. But I am a slow learning beginner.
When I finished my boxing lesson, I really wanted to leave and not come back. But I think the best thing to do would be to be direct and tell my trainer the reasons why I want a new trainer. I don't think it would be a fair thing to just complain to his boss without giving him the respect of letting him know beforehand.
After gym, I was in one of my moods. A quick stop to Subway for a footlong tuna sandwich, juice, and 3 macadamia cookies.
Post Date - Wednesday, September 3, 2008 9:57PM
Completion Date - Wednesday, August 6, 2008 11:54PM
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Boxing Lesson - Day 2
Today was day 2 of my boxing lessons.
I was trying to be more productive today. I didn't want my day to consist of sleeping most of the day away and only getting up to go to the gym. I was a bit successful, but not by much. My plan was to go food shopping and do my laundry, then go to the gym. Well, I missed the MN train. Afternoon hours had changed during the afternoon. I wasn't the only one caught wondering what happened to the train. About 2 other people also wondered the same thing. Since I missed the train, I did my laundry.
After I finished my laundry, I went to the gym for my boxing lesson. So how was the second day? I suspect the woman who appears to be in charge, must have spoken to my trainer. The minute I walked to my trainer, he started complaining about how his workout routines seem easy now, but little bit by little it would get tougher. I was taught various punch forms; I wore my hand wraps and boxing gloves.. Then I was asked to do 45 minutes on the treadmill. Today's lesson was better than yesterday's. The only part I didn't like was my pinky was getting scrapped inside the gloves.
I'm tired, and I want to do some online grocery shopping before I fall asleep.
Post Date - Wednesday, September 3, 2008 1:04AM
Completion Date - Tuesday, August 5, 2008 10:34PM
I was trying to be more productive today. I didn't want my day to consist of sleeping most of the day away and only getting up to go to the gym. I was a bit successful, but not by much. My plan was to go food shopping and do my laundry, then go to the gym. Well, I missed the MN train. Afternoon hours had changed during the afternoon. I wasn't the only one caught wondering what happened to the train. About 2 other people also wondered the same thing. Since I missed the train, I did my laundry.
After I finished my laundry, I went to the gym for my boxing lesson. So how was the second day? I suspect the woman who appears to be in charge, must have spoken to my trainer. The minute I walked to my trainer, he started complaining about how his workout routines seem easy now, but little bit by little it would get tougher. I was taught various punch forms; I wore my hand wraps and boxing gloves.. Then I was asked to do 45 minutes on the treadmill. Today's lesson was better than yesterday's. The only part I didn't like was my pinky was getting scrapped inside the gloves.
I'm tired, and I want to do some online grocery shopping before I fall asleep.
Post Date - Wednesday, September 3, 2008 1:04AM
Completion Date - Tuesday, August 5, 2008 10:34PM
Monday, August 04, 2008
Boxing Lesson - Day 1
Today was the day I would be changing my life...I hope. My plan was to sign up for and start my private boxing lessons.
My day started about 10am. I had a couple of bowls of cold cereal. Because of the 7 mile walk, I was tired when I woke up. However, I did manage to eventually get out of bed. My plan was to leave my apartment about 2:30pm. Leaving at that time would allow me to stop off at a sporting goods store that specialized in boxing equipment. I also wanted to stop off at an electronic store in the area to buy another cell phone. I can't find my cell phone.
Anyway, I ended up missing the 2:30pm MN train, but I wasn't worried since I had so much time. I took the Westchester bus down to NYC. I arrived at the sports store about 4:15pm. Wow, so much for early start. Anyway, I bought the following things:
Boxing shoes ($50)
Hand wraps ($5)
Boxing gloves ($50)
A stopwatch ($15)
With tax the total came up to $130.05. What about the boxing gloves I bought on Saturday. Those were made of plastic. I was told that the boxing gloves sold in the chain stores were cheap gloves not really designed for hitting the punching bags. So, I'll take the cheap gloves back some time this week.
Anyway, by the time I finished in the store, it was about 4:45pm. I took the train back to midtown Manhattan. When I got out of the station, I was feeling, hot and weak (mostly due to not eating lunch). I stopped off at MacDonald's. I ordered a Big Mac and a medium orange juice.
I arrived at the gym at about 5:50pm. I was having second thoughts about starting today, and when I entered the gym, the thought lingered:
There was no paperwork to fill out.
The locker area was very small crammed with too many lockers for the space.
The shower area only had two working showers
My "trainer" knew boxing, but I don't think he really knew how to teach it.
They say that doctors make the worst patients, I would like to say that teachers probably make the worst students. As the guy was "teaching me", I kept saying to myself that that isn't how I would teach this...knowing full well I don't know squat about boxing.
The Paperwork
Well, as I mentioned there was no paperwork. The lady who took my money, just verbally spoke about the days my private lessons would occur. When I mentioned that I needed to write the days down so I wouldn't forget, she offered to scribble it on the receipt she gave me. Then when the trainers changed, the days change also. I think my days will be M, T, W, and Thurs.
The Private Lesson
So what did I get for the my $280. The guy (I forgot his name) had me standing in front of the mirror with the same foot stance practicing various basic punches. Over the years, I've gone through great lengths to avoid mirrors like the plague, but there I was standing in front of the mirror for all to see...the Pillsbury Doughboy's black cousin from out of town trying to look tough....throwing limp-wristed punches into thin air. I did that for about 30 minutes on a "boxer's schedule" (meaning working out for 3 minutes with one minute break). No warm up, no stretching, just the same stance (right foot in front of the left, boxer's crouch, arms up). The guy wanted a different punch combination for each set, but the stance stayed the same. After thirty minutes, the guy put me on the treadmill. He told me to "walk a little and run a little for 30 minutes", then he went to train someone else. No warm up no stretching. When I finished "my walk", I told the guy I was finished. he said that tomorrow, I would do the same thing, but with gloves, he also said that he would teach me some exercises to deal with my gut, then he poked me in the stomach....
....And I giggled liked the Pillsbury Doughboy.
The Locker/Showers
The lockers are about 6inches wide, and of course, placed right next to each other. However, the aisles are only about 2 feet apart. Assuming the floor tiles are 1ft. squared (they could be smaller), the two aisles (there were only two) were two squares apart. The gym may have even used the floor tiles to do the spacing of the lockers.
The showers - Two toilets, but low on toilet paper. Four showers, but only two were operational. The showers in the corners were both disabled (the knobs and the shower heads were removed), so that only the two showers that are visable to the bathroom area were operational. Normally a jelly belly such as myself would shower in the corner, but that was not an option.
Well, so a less that positive experience. So, will I be back tomorrow? Yes. I've told myself that I am paying for the boxing lessons, that I would not get on my own. Having quit at so many things to list here, I really do need to make a change.
Pillsbury Doughboy's cousin does need to die -- no, I'm not being literal.
The place is not great. But at the very least, I should try to stick it out for a couple of months. Besides, when and if I quit, you (regular readers of this blog) know I'll be running for a pint of Haggen Daaz.
211bs / 32.2%BMI
Post Date - Sunday, August 31, 2008 11:35PM
Completion Date - Tuesday, August 5, 2008 1:03AM
My day started about 10am. I had a couple of bowls of cold cereal. Because of the 7 mile walk, I was tired when I woke up. However, I did manage to eventually get out of bed. My plan was to leave my apartment about 2:30pm. Leaving at that time would allow me to stop off at a sporting goods store that specialized in boxing equipment. I also wanted to stop off at an electronic store in the area to buy another cell phone. I can't find my cell phone.
Anyway, I ended up missing the 2:30pm MN train, but I wasn't worried since I had so much time. I took the Westchester bus down to NYC. I arrived at the sports store about 4:15pm. Wow, so much for early start. Anyway, I bought the following things:
Boxing shoes ($50)
Hand wraps ($5)
Boxing gloves ($50)
A stopwatch ($15)
With tax the total came up to $130.05. What about the boxing gloves I bought on Saturday. Those were made of plastic. I was told that the boxing gloves sold in the chain stores were cheap gloves not really designed for hitting the punching bags. So, I'll take the cheap gloves back some time this week.
Anyway, by the time I finished in the store, it was about 4:45pm. I took the train back to midtown Manhattan. When I got out of the station, I was feeling, hot and weak (mostly due to not eating lunch). I stopped off at MacDonald's. I ordered a Big Mac and a medium orange juice.
I arrived at the gym at about 5:50pm. I was having second thoughts about starting today, and when I entered the gym, the thought lingered:
There was no paperwork to fill out.
The locker area was very small crammed with too many lockers for the space.
The shower area only had two working showers
My "trainer" knew boxing, but I don't think he really knew how to teach it.
They say that doctors make the worst patients, I would like to say that teachers probably make the worst students. As the guy was "teaching me", I kept saying to myself that that isn't how I would teach this...knowing full well I don't know squat about boxing.
The Paperwork
Well, as I mentioned there was no paperwork. The lady who took my money, just verbally spoke about the days my private lessons would occur. When I mentioned that I needed to write the days down so I wouldn't forget, she offered to scribble it on the receipt she gave me. Then when the trainers changed, the days change also. I think my days will be M, T, W, and Thurs.
The Private Lesson
So what did I get for the my $280. The guy (I forgot his name) had me standing in front of the mirror with the same foot stance practicing various basic punches. Over the years, I've gone through great lengths to avoid mirrors like the plague, but there I was standing in front of the mirror for all to see...the Pillsbury Doughboy's black cousin from out of town trying to look tough....throwing limp-wristed punches into thin air. I did that for about 30 minutes on a "boxer's schedule" (meaning working out for 3 minutes with one minute break). No warm up, no stretching, just the same stance (right foot in front of the left, boxer's crouch, arms up). The guy wanted a different punch combination for each set, but the stance stayed the same. After thirty minutes, the guy put me on the treadmill. He told me to "walk a little and run a little for 30 minutes", then he went to train someone else. No warm up no stretching. When I finished "my walk", I told the guy I was finished. he said that tomorrow, I would do the same thing, but with gloves, he also said that he would teach me some exercises to deal with my gut, then he poked me in the stomach....
....And I giggled liked the Pillsbury Doughboy.
The Locker/Showers
The lockers are about 6inches wide, and of course, placed right next to each other. However, the aisles are only about 2 feet apart. Assuming the floor tiles are 1ft. squared (they could be smaller), the two aisles (there were only two) were two squares apart. The gym may have even used the floor tiles to do the spacing of the lockers.
The showers - Two toilets, but low on toilet paper. Four showers, but only two were operational. The showers in the corners were both disabled (the knobs and the shower heads were removed), so that only the two showers that are visable to the bathroom area were operational. Normally a jelly belly such as myself would shower in the corner, but that was not an option.
Well, so a less that positive experience. So, will I be back tomorrow? Yes. I've told myself that I am paying for the boxing lessons, that I would not get on my own. Having quit at so many things to list here, I really do need to make a change.
Pillsbury Doughboy's cousin does need to die -- no, I'm not being literal.
The place is not great. But at the very least, I should try to stick it out for a couple of months. Besides, when and if I quit, you (regular readers of this blog) know I'll be running for a pint of Haggen Daaz.
211bs / 32.2%BMI
Post Date - Sunday, August 31, 2008 11:35PM
Completion Date - Tuesday, August 5, 2008 1:03AM
Sunday, August 03, 2008
Henry Hudson Prkwy Slidshow
Below is the slideshow of photos I took along the Henry Hudson Parkway walk.
Post Date - Saturday, August 30, 2008
Post Date - Saturday, August 30, 2008
Henry Hudson Parkway Walk
The plan was to meet up with Vpal to walk along the Henry Hudson Parkway (the west side of Manhattan Island). The meeting place was at 145th street and Broadway (the point we stopped last week due to rain). The meeting time was 2:30p.m. I arrived about 15 minutes early. Vpal arrived about 1 hour late. Yes, one hour late. I would have left after about a 30 minute wait, but I'd forgotten to bring my cell phone. Our walk started about 3:30p.m. We walked along the greenway on the west side of Manhattan Island. This time I finally remembered to bring the pedometer (a electronic device that measures the distance walked). We walked to 14th street and 12th avenue. My pedometer said the distance we walk was about 7 miles; I later checked Google Maps and the Google site also gave 7 miles as the distance. By the time we arrived at 14th street, I was tired. We agreed to continue next weekend from this point. We would have gone further, but I stopped us often to take photos along the way. We went our separate ways at the A train station. I went uptown, Vpal went downtown. I read my DS9 book and managed to get a seat on the train. In the Bronx with about a 30 wait for the MN train, I ate dinner at Subway's. Since I will be starting my boxing lessons tomorrow...I hope; I told myself tonight would be the last day for junk food for awhile...again, I hope. I had a Subway personal pizza, 3 macadamia cookies, and a large drink. I returned home about 9pm. I washed out the tub from this morning's bath, so that I could soak my legs. While the bathtub is filling up, I'm writing this quick blog entry.\
The attached photo is a picture I took of the George Washington Bridge.
Post Date - Wednesday, August 27, 2008 PM
Completion Date - Sunday, August 3, 2008 9:46PM
Shopping at the Mall
Last night, I read an email from Ms. Across the Hall. She was interested in solidifying our plans to see a movie.
No response from Ms. ATH at 11am, 2pm, and I even checked at 11pm, and still no reply.
I went to the mall to see if I could find boxing equipment. First, I checked to see which movies were playing, but I since I had to take the bus, I had to plan carefully. I ended up passing on seeing a movie because I didn't want to miss my bus.
First, I browse through the Barnes & Nobles. Next, dinner at the Panada Express. Finally, I went browsing through "Sports Authority, then Modell's. I purchased a red pair of boxing gloves, and a portable personal round timer.
Post Date - Wednesday, August 27, 2008 8:45PM
No response from Ms. ATH at 11am, 2pm, and I even checked at 11pm, and still no reply.
I went to the mall to see if I could find boxing equipment. First, I checked to see which movies were playing, but I since I had to take the bus, I had to plan carefully. I ended up passing on seeing a movie because I didn't want to miss my bus.
First, I browse through the Barnes & Nobles. Next, dinner at the Panada Express. Finally, I went browsing through "Sports Authority, then Modell's. I purchased a red pair of boxing gloves, and a portable personal round timer.
Post Date - Wednesday, August 27, 2008 8:45PM
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Ants
I thought this was interesting.
Post Date - Sunday, August 14, 2008 10:11PM
Completion Date - Saturday, August 2, 2008 1:44PM
Post Date - Sunday, August 14, 2008 10:11PM
Completion Date - Saturday, August 2, 2008 1:44PM
First Look
Friday, August 1st.
Three weeks left before the return.
Today, I managed to get up (and out of bed) about 7:30a.m. I put up the kitchen curtain (but it didn't stay up for long due to crooked and uneven walls), and took a few pictures of my very clean kitchen. I had a couple of bowls of cold cereal, and...I went back to sleep. I woke up, showered, and was out the door about 12:30p.m. I went to midtown NYC to check out and sign up for boxing lessons.
First impression? Is this the right place? Will I be wasting my money here? I might have to reconsider the other gym where the trainer talked my ear off with out mentioning prices. Both gyms had that dingy in the basement look -- even though today's gym (I'll call it Midtown) was on the second floor. This gym did have two boxing rings "while others only had one" (so I was told). The showers were located way in the back in a space approx. 10ft x 15ft area. Two of four showers were broken.
The general gym floor layout(not including the shower area). The layout was divided into approx. 3 sections:
* the two rings section,
* the heavy bags (8) hanging from the ceiling in the open area space,
* and the workout area consisting of free weights, 3 treadmills, and some exercising equipment.
I spoke to a slightly elderly lady who directed me to a trainer, who in turned, directed me to another trainer. There were no papers to sign. I was just told to come in on Monday, and everything would be done then.
So, my plan is to sign up for the one month private training($280) 3 ~ 4 times per week. Along with the $280, equipment will need to be purchased:
* gloves $60
* wraps $10
* shoes $63
* locker rental (per month) $15
The gym sells these items, but I would feel better if I bought the items on my own from local sport's stores like the Sports Authority and/or Modell's.
After the gym look over, I walked down to 42nd street. I had lunch at Yoshinoya (a Japanese takeout restaurant). Then, I went to see the movie "Get Smart".I liked the movie. I thought it was cute. My expectations were not high, so I was satisfied.
I walked down to 14th street. I had lunch at the diner I mentioned here a few times. Then I walked to 34th street
Post Date - Sunday, August 24, 2008 12:57AM
Completion Date - Saturday, August 2, 2008 1:14am
Three weeks left before the return.
Today, I managed to get up (and out of bed) about 7:30a.m. I put up the kitchen curtain (but it didn't stay up for long due to crooked and uneven walls), and took a few pictures of my very clean kitchen. I had a couple of bowls of cold cereal, and...I went back to sleep. I woke up, showered, and was out the door about 12:30p.m. I went to midtown NYC to check out and sign up for boxing lessons.
First impression? Is this the right place? Will I be wasting my money here? I might have to reconsider the other gym where the trainer talked my ear off with out mentioning prices. Both gyms had that dingy in the basement look -- even though today's gym (I'll call it Midtown) was on the second floor. This gym did have two boxing rings "while others only had one" (so I was told). The showers were located way in the back in a space approx. 10ft x 15ft area. Two of four showers were broken.
The general gym floor layout(not including the shower area). The layout was divided into approx. 3 sections:
* the two rings section,
* the heavy bags (8) hanging from the ceiling in the open area space,
* and the workout area consisting of free weights, 3 treadmills, and some exercising equipment.
I spoke to a slightly elderly lady who directed me to a trainer, who in turned, directed me to another trainer. There were no papers to sign. I was just told to come in on Monday, and everything would be done then.
So, my plan is to sign up for the one month private training($280) 3 ~ 4 times per week. Along with the $280, equipment will need to be purchased:
* gloves $60
* wraps $10
* shoes $63
* locker rental (per month) $15
The gym sells these items, but I would feel better if I bought the items on my own from local sport's stores like the Sports Authority and/or Modell's.
After the gym look over, I walked down to 42nd street. I had lunch at Yoshinoya (a Japanese takeout restaurant). Then, I went to see the movie "Get Smart".I liked the movie. I thought it was cute. My expectations were not high, so I was satisfied.
I walked down to 14th street. I had lunch at the diner I mentioned here a few times. Then I walked to 34th street
Post Date - Sunday, August 24, 2008 12:57AM
Completion Date - Saturday, August 2, 2008 1:14am
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