Today was the first day of school. I haven't posted in a few days due to getting my classroom ready. After wasting the 3 day headstart, I was still in the pack of other teachers trying to get their classes ready. Since I did not finish on Friday, I signed up to come on Saturday, something I said that I would not do this year.
Saturday
Well, after arrived in the building, I was informed that we only had a half day to finish. I had arrived about 9:45am. After putting up wall and window coverings, knowing that I had to be out of the building at 12noon, I made sure to be ready. Well, when noon arrived, I was ready to leave. After chatting with Ms. Across the Hall, and the new second grade teacher (a former 5th grade male teacher, who was tired of the nonsense of the upper grade students and wanted a lower grade, but had to settle for second grade. An annoucement was made that all staff had until 1pm to be out of the building. Great, I had already shoved what could be shoved and put things away, so it wasn't worth touching anything at that point only to have to start putting things away again.I spent the remaining time chatting and helping Ms. ATH with her things.
Sunday
I was invited to my foster father's daughter's BBQ. This is a very nice family that often consider me a part of the family even calling me brother as if I've always been a part of the family.
Anyway, I decided to take public transportation. However, what is about a 16 minutes car drive from my apartment to my foster sister's place, would take me about 90 minutes by public transportation. The area I live in is mountainous with lots of rolling hills. Since most of the transportation traveled in north to south directions, I had to travel south then cross east before traveling North again. When I arrived at the closest bus stop, I then had to walk up a steep mountain road without any sidewalks (about 12 minutes). I arrived at FS's place, but the hostess or host were not home, but there were a lot of people. On my hike up the mountain side, I stopped off at Pathmark. I bought a large soda, large grade juice, granola bars, and a box of donuts. I was a bit annoyed that I just put the bags on the table with the "other things" without the hostess seeing that I did not come empty handed. Anyway, I spent most of the time on the upper deck, while most of the action was down on the ground level. Since I'm not really a party person, I did what I usually do, I just sat and watched the action pass me by. I left about 6:15pm to catch the bus. But the 6:33 bus just passed me by. I was so busy playing Tetris on my cell phone, that I did not see the bus until it zipped by. It didn't even slow down with me being the only one at the bus stop. I starting walking and waited for the next bus a couple of stops down the road, and again, it almost did the same thing. Apparently, you have to wave your arms like a madman to get the bus to slow down and stop.
I stopped off at the local area mall to do some clothes shopping for "Back to School" for myself. I bought a couple of white dress shirts, a couple of black slacks and a pair of black shoes.
Monday Labor Day
Monday should have been my errand day, but it was my procrastination day. I didn't do much but watch the clock knowing that school started the next day. Until the evening, I really couldn't get my mind to think about school related tasks. Finally, in the evening, I was able to type up my letter of introduction and my supply list. I emailed the letter of introduction hoping that I would beat the last minute rush so that I could send it out on the first day. Here, letters of introductions (as well as most communications have to have admin approval). I shaved (my head), showered, and ironed my clothes for tomorrow. I was in bed by 1:30am.
Tuesday, September 2nd
I was hoping to take a early train to arrived in school to do some last minute set up, but I missed the early train by about 30 seconds so I had to take my regular train that would put at school with about 15 minutes before school starts. Unfortunately, dragging the granny cart full with books I didn't use for lesson planning, and my gym clothes, I was dripping with sweat this morning. I was too hot to put on my jacket. So how was the first day?
Actually, it was okay. Despite poor planning, and an incomplete classroom set up, with boxes still unpacked, the day was nice. Even "Wild One" (the second grader who spent much of his time last year out of the classroom was [relatively] nicely behaved. Would you believe that he arrived to school on the first day chewing gum with nothing but a handful of wrinkled loose-leaf paper. Oh, I also had to revise my letter of introduction, because AP1 told me that it was too formal and needed "more fluff" (more please and thank yous). That surprised me. I'm a bit too soft and usually say please and thank you too much. I don't think I've ever been told that I have a rough edge (usually it is the opposite). I also couldn't send out my supply list because Admin had one for the whole school. On the last day of school back in June, an announcement was made to send down a supply list that we would be using for the coming school year. Since that was the first (and only) annoucement, I put it off, until it was too late. As a result, I now have to send out this crappy list with half the things I don't want my students to have, and missing items that I wanted to ask for. "Two packs of loose-leaf paper (wide-ruled)" is just asking for an endless supply of drawing paper and paper airplanes.
At about 6pm, I was expecting the firedrill bell to go off, but it didn't. Anyway, I left the school and went to the boxing gym with the plan of signing up for a 1 month package of group boxing lessons. When I arrived at the gym, The owner (or the wife of the owner) commented about how I had gained weight, and she wanted to know what had happened that I missed two weeks and I had been doing fine and making progress. Did I tell her the lessons were crappy, and I wasn't motivated to come? No, I just said that I was a procrastinating. As I took out my money to pay for the listed price of a one-month fee for group lesson, the lady told me, "oh no, the cost for changing from private to group lessons was about $180. With the "about $180" cost mentioned, and feeling I did not get what I paid for with private lessons, I told the lady I would think about it, but in the meantime I would clear out my locker. I should have taking my gym bag into the locker room, because coming out of the locker with my shower things and gloves, I felt like a quitter without several people stopping to see what I was carrying out. So, what did I do after? I went to Subway's restaurant; I ordered a foot-long sandwich and three macadamian cookies, with a couple of refills of soda. I came home hot sweating a tired. I fell asleep. Now, at 1am. I have to plan my lessons for tomorrow, and shower of course. Hopefully, I'll be in bed by 2am.
Post Date - Tuesday, November 25, 2008 8:52PM
Completion Date - Wednesday, September 3, 2008 1:02AM
Showing posts with label Boxing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Boxing. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
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
Friday, August 08, 2008
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
Saturday, August 02, 2008
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
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Boxing Plans
Another lazy day. Not much to write about. However, I did receive a phone call from the gym in uptown Manhattan(the one I visited July 8th after day 2 of jury duty). It was the owner who had made the call. She wanted to know if I had found another gym. She also mentioned a few other things:
* She mentioned how there is no real competition, but wanted me to know that if I wasn't happy with my new choice, I could always come to her.
* She mentioned how her place isn't about prices (still won't tell me how much it would cost to take lessons).
* She mentioned about how her gym focuses on the needs of individual clients.
* She mentioned her boxing experiences, and physical fitness interests.
* She mentioned the senior program for adults over the age 55.
It was about a 10 minute call. Even though I did not get the information I wanted, I have to be honest, I did like her sales pitch.
I went to visit my foster father. And being a bit depressed that I had not done any thing productive these last few days, I ordered a take out dinner from the local soul food restaurant owned by Koreans (including a large piece of carrot cake with frosting).
When I got home, I was feeling a bit guilty for buying the greasy heart attack on a plate, so I decided to call another gym with a boxing program that I had Googled at the same time I found the uptown gym. At first, I wanted a gym that was close to home -- telling myself that I would be more likely to go if the gym was closer to home. But lately, I've been thinking that another reason is my "homebody" mentality. I mostly stay home, and I am a bit of a waiter. I have a bit of a habit of waiting for opportunities to (almost literally) knock on my door. If opportunity doesn't knock, then I will usually just stay home. I guess you probably figured that out from this blog. What have I been doing since my vacation started? Eating and sleeping it away. Sorry, I'm getting sidetracked.
I decided to take a different approach. I thought about going to a gym that was not "on my way". I managed to find a gym that has boxing lessons downtown. The cost -- they actually posted their prices. The cost (per month) would be $230 for private lessons and $135 for group lessons. At first, I was thinking that there was no way I would be paying for private lessons, but now I'm not sure. Considering I wasted almost half of my summer doing nothing in the way of exercising. Now I'm thinking about using some of my tax refund to splurge on myself by signing up for a one month of private lessons to get me started, and then continue with group lessons after that. My tax refund (and fed stimulus check) are both still laying on my radio. A part of me knows that as soon as I deposit them, somehow or someway, they will evaporate. Sorry, sidetracked again.
Well, that is the plan now. As you regular blog readers know by now, I am Mr. Planner. I'm a good planner, but a poor follow througher. Hopefully, this time will be different. In a couple of months, I will be reaching the big 4-0. I would like a new me -- I'll even settle for an almost new me.
Well, it is late. I'll "keep you posted". Pun intended.
Post Date - Sunday, August 17, 2008 11:12AM
Completion Date - Friday, July 25, 2008 12:06PM
* She mentioned how there is no real competition, but wanted me to know that if I wasn't happy with my new choice, I could always come to her.
* She mentioned how her place isn't about prices (still won't tell me how much it would cost to take lessons).
* She mentioned about how her gym focuses on the needs of individual clients.
* She mentioned her boxing experiences, and physical fitness interests.
* She mentioned the senior program for adults over the age 55.
It was about a 10 minute call. Even though I did not get the information I wanted, I have to be honest, I did like her sales pitch.
I went to visit my foster father. And being a bit depressed that I had not done any thing productive these last few days, I ordered a take out dinner from the local soul food restaurant owned by Koreans (including a large piece of carrot cake with frosting).
When I got home, I was feeling a bit guilty for buying the greasy heart attack on a plate, so I decided to call another gym with a boxing program that I had Googled at the same time I found the uptown gym. At first, I wanted a gym that was close to home -- telling myself that I would be more likely to go if the gym was closer to home. But lately, I've been thinking that another reason is my "homebody" mentality. I mostly stay home, and I am a bit of a waiter. I have a bit of a habit of waiting for opportunities to (almost literally) knock on my door. If opportunity doesn't knock, then I will usually just stay home. I guess you probably figured that out from this blog. What have I been doing since my vacation started? Eating and sleeping it away. Sorry, I'm getting sidetracked.
I decided to take a different approach. I thought about going to a gym that was not "on my way". I managed to find a gym that has boxing lessons downtown. The cost -- they actually posted their prices. The cost (per month) would be $230 for private lessons and $135 for group lessons. At first, I was thinking that there was no way I would be paying for private lessons, but now I'm not sure. Considering I wasted almost half of my summer doing nothing in the way of exercising. Now I'm thinking about using some of my tax refund to splurge on myself by signing up for a one month of private lessons to get me started, and then continue with group lessons after that. My tax refund (and fed stimulus check) are both still laying on my radio. A part of me knows that as soon as I deposit them, somehow or someway, they will evaporate. Sorry, sidetracked again.
Well, that is the plan now. As you regular blog readers know by now, I am Mr. Planner. I'm a good planner, but a poor follow througher. Hopefully, this time will be different. In a couple of months, I will be reaching the big 4-0. I would like a new me -- I'll even settle for an almost new me.
Well, it is late. I'll "keep you posted". Pun intended.
Post Date - Sunday, August 17, 2008 11:12AM
Completion Date - Friday, July 25, 2008 12:06PM
Friday, July 18, 2008
More Procrastination
Thursday, July 17th
Another day of chronic procrastination. I woke up a bit earlier than usual, cold cereal and dressed by about 11p.m. I went to get a daily newspaper. Yep, I forgot to use the ATM machine again. I wanted to sit in the park again and read the newspaper before I got to work cleaning my apartment. This time the experience was okay. There were park workers using loud machines like the leaf blower. After I read the newspaper, I was going to walk up the hill to the bodega to get some money out of the ATM to put some money on my laundry card. However, since the weather was so nice, I decided to take the train to Yonkers to go to the bank and save a transaction fee. Once in Yonkers, I first went shopping for some more plain yogurt, fruit, organic 2% milk, about 5 boxes of cold cereal, and microwavable rice. I took the train back. But since I had not gone to the bank(I forgot again), I was going to take the train back, but I decided to walk. Then I decided that I would go back to that nearby gym just to see if I could find it, and maybe join. What happened to not being delusional? While walking to the park with my newspaper and an container of orange juice, at 4 or 5 different points, someone with washboard abs walked past me as I tried (with no success) to keep my stomach from jiggling while I walked past. I walked to the gym again. This time I found out why I could not find it the last time...it went out of business. It would have helped if someone took down the very large awning sign. After that disappointment, I took the bus to another local gym, only to discover that that gym stopped giving boxing lessons. The guy behind the counter offered a free karate lesson, but I really was not interested in karate. However, the guy was a bit persistent. I gave him my name and phone number even as I told him that I was not interested, and that I wouldn't be going. I walked back to central downtown Yonkers. Since there was a police car blocking the traffic, and I saw the local Channel 7 van with the reporter N.J. Burkett. I later found out that there was an accident. An elderly person accidentally stepped on the gas instead of the break hitting two people.
I walked to the bank. I also stopped off at the imitation 5 & 10 store. I bought one of those folding camping chairs. I stopped at a local pizza place and ordered a spaghetti dinner to go.
Evening was TV and blogging. Since I haven't taken a bath this evening, I won't be going outside tomorrow morning, so maybe I will be able to do some cleaning tomorrow.
Post Date - Monday, August 11, 2008 10:53PM
Completion Date - Friday, July 18, 2008 12:37AM/
Saturday, August 9, 2008 4:24PM
Another day of chronic procrastination. I woke up a bit earlier than usual, cold cereal and dressed by about 11p.m. I went to get a daily newspaper. Yep, I forgot to use the ATM machine again. I wanted to sit in the park again and read the newspaper before I got to work cleaning my apartment. This time the experience was okay. There were park workers using loud machines like the leaf blower. After I read the newspaper, I was going to walk up the hill to the bodega to get some money out of the ATM to put some money on my laundry card. However, since the weather was so nice, I decided to take the train to Yonkers to go to the bank and save a transaction fee. Once in Yonkers, I first went shopping for some more plain yogurt, fruit, organic 2% milk, about 5 boxes of cold cereal, and microwavable rice. I took the train back. But since I had not gone to the bank(I forgot again), I was going to take the train back, but I decided to walk. Then I decided that I would go back to that nearby gym just to see if I could find it, and maybe join. What happened to not being delusional? While walking to the park with my newspaper and an container of orange juice, at 4 or 5 different points, someone with washboard abs walked past me as I tried (with no success) to keep my stomach from jiggling while I walked past. I walked to the gym again. This time I found out why I could not find it the last time...it went out of business. It would have helped if someone took down the very large awning sign. After that disappointment, I took the bus to another local gym, only to discover that that gym stopped giving boxing lessons. The guy behind the counter offered a free karate lesson, but I really was not interested in karate. However, the guy was a bit persistent. I gave him my name and phone number even as I told him that I was not interested, and that I wouldn't be going. I walked back to central downtown Yonkers. Since there was a police car blocking the traffic, and I saw the local Channel 7 van with the reporter N.J. Burkett. I later found out that there was an accident. An elderly person accidentally stepped on the gas instead of the break hitting two people.
I walked to the bank. I also stopped off at the imitation 5 & 10 store. I bought one of those folding camping chairs. I stopped at a local pizza place and ordered a spaghetti dinner to go.
Evening was TV and blogging. Since I haven't taken a bath this evening, I won't be going outside tomorrow morning, so maybe I will be able to do some cleaning tomorrow.
Post Date - Monday, August 11, 2008 10:53PM
Completion Date - Friday, July 18, 2008 12:37AM/
Saturday, August 9, 2008 4:24PM
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Looking for a new gym
Quick Summary.
Wednesday, July 2nd., I didn't do much. I am slowly slipping into my comatose hermit lifestyle. Lots of sleep and not much else. After finally, getting a bit of motivation, I took a bath, got dressed and was out the door about 3PM. My goal was to visit a local gym offering boxing lessons. I did a Google search to find a gym that teaches boxing. A part of me would like to learn boxing. I think boxing would help me to build some confidence (both personally and professionally). Those of you regular readers of this blog know by now that I go through phases of self-help ideas (gym membership, rowing machine, walking, and now boxing).
Anyway, with the Google search, I was able to guesstimate the distance of the local gym at about 30 minutes. The map showed a fairly easy path (just walk along one avenue until I come to the main avenue). However, I live in mountain country. To get to the boxing gym, I had to do about a 15 walk up one side of a mountain, then the other 15 minutes down the other side of the mountain (mostly stairs). Yep, the second half of the walk was following a zig-zag route down a mountain side that was mostly stairs. Once I reached the bottom, I knew that I would not be attending this gym. I really could not see myself doing a 30 minute or an hour workout, then having to do a 30 minute hike over a mountain, with the first leg of the journey being about 15 minutes worth of stairs to climb. I'm delusional, but not that delusional.
However, since I did the hike there, I decided the least I could do was take a look at the gym. The gym was located in a large warehouse. The warehouse was about the size of a city block. I'm not sure if I came in the building through the back way or not, but after climbing 3 flights of stairs (no elevator), I could not find the gym. I gave up. I was too tired to climb the mountain stairs back, so I waited for the nearest bus that would take me around the perimeter of the mountain.
It took two buses for me to get home. Since there wasn't a lot of wait time for the buses, I was back home at 4PM. I was planning to try another gym in upper Manhattan, but I was too tired. I also canceled my planned trip to the grocery store. Instead, I just took a nap.
Completion Date - Thursday, July 3, 2008 1:04PM
Post Date - Wednesday, July 16, 2008 3:38PM
Wednesday, July 2nd., I didn't do much. I am slowly slipping into my comatose hermit lifestyle. Lots of sleep and not much else. After finally, getting a bit of motivation, I took a bath, got dressed and was out the door about 3PM. My goal was to visit a local gym offering boxing lessons. I did a Google search to find a gym that teaches boxing. A part of me would like to learn boxing. I think boxing would help me to build some confidence (both personally and professionally). Those of you regular readers of this blog know by now that I go through phases of self-help ideas (gym membership, rowing machine, walking, and now boxing).
Anyway, with the Google search, I was able to guesstimate the distance of the local gym at about 30 minutes. The map showed a fairly easy path (just walk along one avenue until I come to the main avenue). However, I live in mountain country. To get to the boxing gym, I had to do about a 15 walk up one side of a mountain, then the other 15 minutes down the other side of the mountain (mostly stairs). Yep, the second half of the walk was following a zig-zag route down a mountain side that was mostly stairs. Once I reached the bottom, I knew that I would not be attending this gym. I really could not see myself doing a 30 minute or an hour workout, then having to do a 30 minute hike over a mountain, with the first leg of the journey being about 15 minutes worth of stairs to climb. I'm delusional, but not that delusional.
However, since I did the hike there, I decided the least I could do was take a look at the gym. The gym was located in a large warehouse. The warehouse was about the size of a city block. I'm not sure if I came in the building through the back way or not, but after climbing 3 flights of stairs (no elevator), I could not find the gym. I gave up. I was too tired to climb the mountain stairs back, so I waited for the nearest bus that would take me around the perimeter of the mountain.
It took two buses for me to get home. Since there wasn't a lot of wait time for the buses, I was back home at 4PM. I was planning to try another gym in upper Manhattan, but I was too tired. I also canceled my planned trip to the grocery store. Instead, I just took a nap.
Completion Date - Thursday, July 3, 2008 1:04PM
Post Date - Wednesday, July 16, 2008 3:38PM
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