No Cop Out - David Cromlish

2010-07-01T11:43:00.000-07:00

It is over...this is the 107 blog of my journey and it will be my last one. Today at exactly 1:26 pm concluded the 100 Pound Challenge to raise money for the Northumberland Hills Hospital. The journey ended after crashing through a life size poster of my old self while the music "I'm too Sexy for this shirt" was playing. I went out on stage, did a few poses and the crowd was very generous with the applause. The Mayor was asked to perform the final duties of announcing my weight....I lost 107.2 pounds over the last year. I now weigh in at 228.8 pounds. That's a world away from 336 pounds believe me; that was a whole different person. Again the kind folks applauded; Andrea was able to say a few words about what she encountered when she first met me and what challenges I presented to her as a client. I was then able to say a few words to thank my family, friends and the community for all their support and encouragement over the last year and of course their generosity! Rhonda announced that we raised $18,000! Incredible...just $2000 shy of buying a crash cart which was rated the highest priority by the hospital to replace. If the additional funds can't be raised by the end of next week when the donations are to be concluded, then the NHH will proceed with purchasing two new ECG machines! This adventure was a win win...no one lost in my opinion.

It's been quite the ride this past year, but a very rewarding one for sure. I recognized that I needed to make some dramatic changes in my life...here are some of the clues that led me to that belief; attending a search warrant at a residence and someone yelling to take cover...all ten officers were able to hide behind me...comfortably! Clue #2, enjoying the beach and wading out in to the water...I look up, I'm surrounded by naturalists splashing me with water trying to keep me alive until i can be towed of the sandbar and join my pod! Clue # 3, when asked what straw broke the camels back to get started on this life style change...it was when i sat on the camel that broke its back! It had nothing to do with straw!

I'm not even sure if anything is going to make sense and i know I'm going to ramble as I have a lot of things going through my head right now...like sooooo many people to thank.

Thanks yous:

to my wife and kids, their support and understanding throughout this adventure and the change of eating habits that most 20 years olds would find foreign! But they stuck it out! The cost of clothes and equipment like shoes was non stop! The cost of the gym membership and training sessions, the cost of laser treatment on my feet, which is still ongoing! I could have bought an ECG machine after all that, mind you I would still be fat.

to my brother Jim and his family Wanda, Bryan and Steven. Always supportive and even joined me in the Hike for Health Event...it was a lot of fun.

to all my other family members, Jim, Nancy, Katie, Sandy, Scott, Ian, Jen, Chris, Liz, Matt, Kristina, Garth, Brianna, Mike and Eliz, Mike, Cathy and TJ for all their support and words of encouragement throughout the year and donations to the cause.

to new friends I met along the way...Robert and Doris Biron, Cindy Adams, Tanya Earle, Linda and Kate Hunter, Kathy and Eric Bernard Thompson, Tracey Llwellyn, Sandra Stothart, Trish Reid, Angel Targon, Wendy Jibb, Andre Arff, Chris Littlechild and Melissa Lewis, Fran, Dave Hughes, JR, Kristen Marshman and Dave Long...this list just goes on. Most of these folks I met while at the gym and they have been very supportive of my adventure. This list wasn't meant to be exhaustive but just a sprinkling of the new friends I've found.

To old friends like Sandra Legacy who has heckled me from as far away as Michigan. She still can't get over the fact I best her in a foot race over twenty years ago...suck it up princess. to Greg Kay always willing to share a breakfast protein shake and words of advise! To the whole DeMattos Family for always sharing their humour and gift of life! The Scowcrofts...wondering when I'm going to come out of hiding....I'M BACK!

To all my coworkers and Board members at the police station, again very supportive and were generous in their donations!

Thanks John Russell who was always there when something needed to get done especially during the Hike for Health Event...he was the glue to that whole committee and did a fantastic job!
Thanks to Rhonda Cunningham...she's a go getter! The word "no" is not in her vocabulary...its just do. She was a workaholic in bringing these different events and lining up the media to generate the public attention. Always a good listener and provides sound advice.

Thanks to the media who have a large role in getting the information out to the public...where would any fund raising event be without their help!? thank you to Pete Fisher, Joel Scott, Yorke Bell-Smith, Peggy McArthur, Susan Amos, Ted Amsden, Tood Purvis, Heather Goode, Mike Cutting, Joe Snider, Mark Rockburn, Ben Burd, The Breeze Radio, The Star Radio, CHEX TV, COGECO TV, Northumberland Today, Northumberlnad News, CBC radio, The Burd Report, SNAP, Northumberland Views...I sincerely hope I didn't miss anyone, if I did I apologize!

Special thanks to Andrea...the Sarge! My trainer, my friend, my supporter and my tormentor! There is no doubt in my mind that I would not have been able to do this without her guidance and support! The training sessions were filled with knowledge and yet a lot of humour was shared along the way. I also believe mutual respect was an important factor in us working so well as a team. It would appear that we have several other training adventures along the way such as preparing for the half marathon in October. The book on my fitness journey is still being written, only this chapter has been closed. Bodilogix rocks!

The future...my current weight now stands at 228 pounds. My goal is to get down to 185 to 190. I hope to break the 200 pound mark before this Christmas...I know I'll do it. Anybody want to wager? All winnings get donated to the NHH. I have the half marathon in October, possibly doing a duothalon in August (bike and run) in Cobourg. A group of 22, mostly from the gym are parachuting on September 18 in Ginseng...yee haw! Sometime in February 2011 a group of us will try the Olympic bob sleigh track at Lake Placid...that should be a good adventure. Also trying to line up a group to go on a hot air balloon excursion, rock climbing and then climbing Mount Kilimanjaro...hopefully! All these adventures are actually structured to keep a healthy and active life...no more sitting on the couch!

Well friends its been a wonderful crazy year and I wouldn't have changed anything...including the 100 kilometer hike! I'm still waiting for the toe nails to drop! I've met so many good people along the way...finally a good news story to share with people. I'm signing off with a mixture of sadness that its done but also happy that I'm a free man so to speak...no longer having the pressure to lose the weight by a certain period of time. My journey still continues for seeking better health and level of fitness but I know am better prepared to go the rest of the away and also maintain what I've done as well.

I leave with you no quotes ...just remember we are all on our own journey and it doesn't hurt to ask for help along the way to get back on track.

Slimmer Dave out!!

2010-06-25T08:37:00.000-07:00

Still recovering from the hike...it looks like I'm going to lose six toe nails now! Oh well, they'll grow back. Actually I wonder how much a toe nail weighs? I might need that for July 01st! It's hard to believe that it's almost over...the 100 pound challenge. I'll be a free man at exactly 1:26 pm on Thursday July 01st.
After the final weigh-in I'll have more to say in my blog. I'll take some time to try and express the changes that I've made and how I'm feeling. Of course I have a lot of people that I need to thank as well! I've had so many people that have been supportive throughout the past year; it's been an amazing experience.

I've been receiving laser treatment on the feet still and taking Epsom salt soaks...it'll be nice to have normal feet again! I haven't had normal feet in about five months! Having said that, I have set out another training goal, which i think is very important to do, running the half marathon in October. There appears to be about ten of us from the Bodilogix that are willing to take on this challenge and for most of them it will be their first marathon of any kind. Having this new goal flows into what I eventually want to achieve and that's to lose another 40 to 50 pounds by this time next year. Giving myself another year seems a very reasonable timetable to reach my final target.

Well...hopefully I'll see everybody for the big finale and we'll get to share in the Canada Cake afterwards!
Big Dave out

2010-06-21T16:43:00.000-07:00

It's done...we actually finished the 100 kilometers and I'm very happy it's over! My feet were killing me and i had severe pain in both my quad muscles at the end of the first day. We walked the first 72 kilometers in approximately 14.5 hours.

The walkers were as follows; JR Eromine, Rhonda Cunningham, Chris Littlechild, Andrea Johnson and myself. We were very fortunate to have my son Rick and his friend Bryan Turpin drive a supply vehicle through most of the night...thanks guys! You guys made the trip so much easier instead of having to lug all our stuff. Like I said Rick and Bryan stayed through most of the night, we had to cart our stuff for about one hour and then we were met up with our day supply vehicle which was driven by Brian Scott...another thank you to Brian who stayed with us until we were finished that day.

Also, we were joined on our hike by Jean Hill and her husband Don...they looked after all of our first aid and foot treatment ! Believe me we needed it! Jean and Don were with us from about 9am till we finished on the first day and then were up bright and early on Saturday to help us get through the second day of the challenge.

We had a great crew and we couldn't have done it without them!

The journey started for us at midnight, we all met at Bodilogix to get ourselves prepared for the hike ahead. Each of us was equipped with head lamps, reflective clothing, some larger flash lights and two small air horns to scare away the night critters...had to keep Rhonda happy on that one. The only time the horns had to be used was actually in the gym itself...yup they worked!

We left the gym at about 12:30am...and the fun began! Actually it was a beautiful night for hiking; the weather was great, the stars were out and a slight breeze. The night walk went without any problems in fact it was very enjoyable! We had only one encounter with wildlife; hearing some coyote's in the distance. This of course got Rhonda a little on edge...she had an air horn at the ready and the big flash light swinging all over the place like it was a movie premiere! After a while the howling stopped. I asked her if she knew what that meant? She replied no. I said they were now in stalking mode and were probably parallel to us right now....wondering if we were pray. Then about five minutes later, she was still on high alert, I jumped back! Oh boy...I wish I had a camera...she must have jumped five feet back! Rhonda claims that's when her first blister happened...wimp.

The rest of the night was pretty uneventful...listening to the Bull frogs croaking at us as we walked by. Everybody was in good spirits...probably because they knew I was the slowest runner and would end up being the dinner for bear or canine.

Going up Big Bertha seemed easier at night...probably because we couldn't see the top as we were climbing.

The sun came up as we were walking north 0n Harwood Road...it was pretty for about for about sixty seconds and then realization of all the pavement that still needed to be marched upon put things into a different perspective...and the heat that the sun will soon be bringing!

We made it into the village of Harwood safe and sound...then we were attacked by swarm of deer flies! They stayed with us for about thirty minutes or so... air horns don't work on those things!

It was a hot walk for the rest of the day...lots of water was drank along the way with fruits being consumed by the bushel. A few stops were required to have our feet looked at and repaired.

During our breaks for foot repairs I noticed that the group was still in pretty good spirits which was very important as this hike was as much about mental as it was a physical test. There were moments that you had to just put your mind in neutral....some people would claim I have a talent for that!

I think it was about the 60 k mark that I was actually going to get ill...fortunately the feeling passed and some vegetation was saved. That would have been a little embarrassing.

We finally made it back to Bodilogix...I've never been so happy to see that place in all my life! A few folks were there to greet us and cheer us on...also cold water to soak our feet in! That was wonderful! Jean did her magic on our feet before being released to go home and rest up for the final 28 kilometers. By the time I got home everything had seized up and I was in pain! The only thing that didn't hurt was my nose! My quads hurt so much I had I had to crawl up my stairs to get to the bedroom! I was really wondering how I was going to be able to walk the next day.
I proceeded to try and do as much maintenance as possible...Advil along with hot baths with Epsom salt and then I would have a cold bath...repeated this twice before calling it a night.

The next morning was a killer...I could hardly stand up! Pain was shooting in both quads...I thought that was the end of the road for me. Fortunately once I started moving a little the pain lessened and I was able to get to the Boy Scout Camp for the start of day two. Joining me on the second day was my brother Jim and my two nephews Bryan and Steven. My son Rick also walked on the second day. Rosie and my sister-in-law Wanda helped out at base camp. My daughter Carlie-Ann was there in spirit as she had to work.

I found it tough going at the beginning...still sore. The first 14 k loop was pretty slow, there was no doubt about that. The second loop seemed a lot easier and faster. Even though this wasn't a race I have to mention that Jim came in first out of the family to complete the 28 k's...I was last. I would never hear the end of it if I didn't mention it!

Chris Littlechild was the first to cross the finish line out of the 100 kilometer group...great job Chris! The rest of us hobbled in together about an hour behind him...greeted by a bagpiper! We were marched across the finish line to the sound of the pipes! The piper was Gord Hunter...thanks Gord! No...I did not do the Fling.

Man, what a feeling it was to cross that finish line! Hard to describe really....I was also looking for the cake I was promised! The whole team did a great job...the organizing committee, the support people, the many generous sponsors and of course my fellow hikers! I believe we had 102 hikers on the Saturday! Not bad...

I'm still trying to heal from the hike....laser treatment has started again on the blisters and bruises located on the bottom of both my feet...their more like stumps now. It would appear that I'll lose three toe nails...who needs them. According to Doris Biron that just means I've officially joined the ranks of the long distance athlete. I guess losing toe nails is pretty common!

I believe I will now retire from being a long distance athlete...the next time I want to go 100 kilometers it will be by car!

Big Dave out

2010-06-16T10:03:00.000-07:00

I don't believe it! There must be a mistake...something is out of alignment in the Universe! I'll be right back, I have to double check on something. I can't believe my eyes but its true...the Sarge has posted a blog! Well...I'm looking up into the sky and I don't see any pigs flying and I think Hell is as hot as it ever was! It just must be a miracle... I guess I shouldn't questions the whys and the ways of the Universe.

"I tried to know absolutely nothing about a great many things, and I have succeeded fairly well"...Robert Benchley...it's also worked quite well for me!

In approximately 12 hours we'll be on the Hike from Hell....oops I mean the Hike for Health event. Four of us will try for a 100 k's, that being Andrea, JR , Chris and myself. Rhonda will be trying the first 72 k's and i know some other people hope to join us along the way at various points.

The last two days I haven't been at the gym, just trying to conserve some energy for the hike. Hopefully that plan pays off.

Had a protein shake breakfast with my buddy Greg Kay, Lawyer et. al, this morning. He came bearing paperwork...I thought he wanted to update my Will before the hike!! Nope, just a training schedule for the half marathon in October...a gentle reminder that I'm not done on this health journey.
Well, I'll see you guys on the other side of the 100 k hike!
Big Dave out.

2010-06-13T07:09:00.000-07:00

Well, only five days away from the 100 k hike...yippee! Can't wait! Actually I'm anxious about it...I'm just hoping I get the whole 100 K's in. I've certainly trained enough for it over the last few months and my feet are ready to go thanks to Melissa at the Pain Relief Clinic and all the helpful advise I got from other folks. I don't have any blisters and the bruise on the ball of my right foot seems healed. I also went back to the "Running Room" and explained what I was doing and what I was experiencing. They checked my gait and recommended what I should be wearing and I also learned that I was wearing a size too small! Heck I couldn't even get that right but that's all been remedied now.

So...I've got new feet and new shoes...all systems are go!

"Everywhere is within walking distance if you have the time" ...Steven Wright.

The plan is to leave Bodilogix at 3am Friday morning and to trek for 72 k's...a stroll in the park really. That should take us between 15 to 18 hours of walking...that's a lot of walking! Then on Saturday, 6am, we hike 28 k's in the woods as part of the family day for the Hike for Health Event. My brother Jim and my nephews Bryan and Steven will be joining me on the second day, which is great...they can help carry me!!

I just celebrated a birthday on Saturday...as a friend stated it was another successful trip around the sun. I think this also holds true...."Older people shouldn't eat health foods, they need all the preservatives they can get"...Robert Orben

Big Dave out.

2010-06-06T08:23:00.000-07:00

The weekend was uplifting and also tragic. I was able to join the Relay for Life event Friday night which spills over into 7am Saturday morning. I was on a terrific team with terrific friends. It was great being able to share in such an event and help support the fight to find a cure for cancer. Thanks Trevor for allowing me to walk the Survivors lap with you...

Tragedy ...during the Relay for Life I was told the news that a friend of mine, Dave Stothart, had lost his wife, Marie, just the night before to cancer. Marie, with the support of her family (Dave, Karly and Jamie) fought a courageous battle, but finally succumbed to that horrible disease. Marie was only 52 years of age...way too young...

Amazing, who should I see at the Relay for Life Event later that night...you guessed it Dave and his daughter Karly. This family are fighters and they showed up to keep the battle going for a cure!

Another dear friend of mine was dealing with the one year anniversary of her sisters death to cancer...again someone far too young to die. She was going to join us at the Relay For Life but understandably it was too difficult.

Everyone knows someone that's been affected by this disease.

After seeing the dedication and fighting spirit from the DeMattos Family, Stothart Family, and the rest of the teams that night...I am confident that a cure will be found.

I believe these events and these stories should be a reminder or even a wake up call for us to support the ongoing research and related institutions such as the Canadian Cancer Society and the Northumberland Hills Hospital. If money is in short supply then donate your time...we all benefit.

I'll leave you with a quote from Gilda Radner which I think is very appropriate for the theme of this blog, "I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious Ambiguity."

Big Dave out

2010-06-01T04:26:00.000-07:00

On Monday night I was invited to the Port Hope Rotary Dinner by Jan Boycott who is a big supporter of Northumberland Hills Hospital. The ever popular Rhonda Cunningham joined me...she knows everybody! It was a great dinner and I was able to briefly speak about the Hike for Health event and my 100 pound challenge. Thanks Jan for setting this up. By the way I avoided dessert...too many witnesses. A very pleasant surprise was meeting one of my former teachers from CDCI East...Ted Rafuse. It was fun catching up with him...he spent 18 years at the East...we were there for the same length of time then!

"If you don't know where your going, you will wind up somewhere else." Yogi Berra
Thank God for GPS...

The Sarge has spoken to Denise Cameron from the Pain Clinic in regards to my blister/feet problem....trying to line up some laser treatment for them. I'm now going hi-tech...can't I just ask Scotty to beam up?!

Tuesday afternoon Rhonda and I did separate interviews for COGECO Cable...thanks Mark! I went first and Mark wanted to know what he should ask me...I said, ask whatever you want, we'll just go with the flow...ease on down the road....no problems. Rhonda's turn...I'm surprised she doesn't have her own Press Secretary! She knew exactly what she wanted, the phraseology, everything. Mark was so intimidated that he even wiped down the seat before she sat on it! Heck with me, Mark just pointed and I sat! Geez, that sounds like I should be entertaining the kids at Sea World balancing a ball off my nose! But don't feed me herring...much prefer pizza for a job well done!

I did break Rhonda's professional demeanor during her interview...she broke up laughing, accusing moi of making faces at her! Unfortunately this is the only face I've got!

The Hike for Health Organizing Committee had a meeting yesterday afternoon. Very proud of this team and the effort they have put forward to try and make this first hike a success. The team consists of....Andrea Johnson, Rhonda Cunningham, John Russell, Doris Biron, Karen Stinson and Chris Littlechild. Also, unofficial members are Mia Frankl from Northumberland County and the Northumberland ATV Club.

Because of the condition of my feet we discussed that I might try and do the 100 K all at once. I'm afraid that once I stop I might not be able to get going again. The Sarge is willing to do what I want...for once!! The decision to keep going will be made on the go...depends on what feels right.

I was hitchhiking the other day and a hearse stopped. I said, "No thanks -- I'm not going that far." Steven Wright.
Big Dave out!

2010-05-29T11:38:00.000-07:00

I started this blog just after finishing a 40/25 hike...fun. Amazingly my shin splints never acted up once, but why would they...after spending money on wraps to combat the evil shin splints and packing them in my rucksack and carrying them for 65 k's ...why would they act up! I shouldn't complain. But...my blisters are back with a vengeance! I have blisters inside blisters...they're building a condominium! I wasn't sure how the 25 k was going to work on Saturday...it was very painful. I had to break the blisters, patch them up with band aids and duct tape and hope for the best. Once I started walking I couldn't stop...the constant walking was helping to numb the pain...bizarre I know. As soon as I had to stop for a few minutes to change water bottles then the pain would really get going. I can't wait to get this 100 k hike over with!!

My brother-in-law, Jim Maguire, joined us on our 40 k hike. It was his first hike in several years and he decided to stop at the 27 k mark...he had to work the next day...smart move. He got to experience the hill that we affectionately call Big Bad Bertha...thanks Kristen. This hill is so steep you feel like you just summited and should be planting a flag! Jim felt the pain on that one. We usually stop about 1 k down the road from Bertha for lunch. It's great a little spot and even has a stream running by. Jim took the opportunity to soak his feet in the cold water...man oh man...I didn't know he was part Hobbit. I think he must be related to Bilbo Baggins...he's Jimbo Baggins from the Shire. Not sure if anything is living downstream anymore?

Jimbo also did his best Dr. Doolittle and saved a snapper turtle that sitting on the road. We were one with nature...and all that crap.

A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand. That also works for beers by the way.

Monday morning and still in pain. I did very little at the gym this morning.

People will forget what you said, People will forget what you did, but People will never forget how you made them feel.
This is my 100th blog...who would have thought!

Big Dave out

2010-05-26T07:49:00.000-07:00

One heckler down...just a few more to go! A soft bunch these hecklers...

One day before another exciting adventure, pounding the pavement over the hills of Northumberland. I'm getting my gear all ready and laid out so I don't forget anything. Let's see...I have my state of the art wraps that go around my shins (shin splints), I have my knee braces in case my knees go out, I have blister band aids, Easy Glide stuff to put on my feet to help prevent blisters, double layered socks, extra cushion in my shoes to protect the deep bruise on the ball of my foot, sun screen, sun glasses, hat, change of socks, and change of shoes. If I wear any more protective equipment I'll look like a hockey player that can't find a rink to play in! I've got so many injuries right now...but dammit I'm healthy! At least that's what I keep mumbling to myself.

Ooops...I almost forgot, I'll have my shorts and orange shirt on as well. Can't very well go on this hike naked even though that's the motto of Bodilogix. The colour of my shirt, coat etc. has now come a thing of tradition on these hikes. The Sarge is very insistent I have to wear something orange...I'm guessing so the cars don't hit us.

Reminder...the Hike for Health is only a few short weeks away...please register and enjoy the day with your family and get healthy at the same time.

I just found out from the Sarge that there is a new style happening in the world for men. Apparently the "Metro sexual" stage is out and a new "Manaissance" is taking place. So....men who like beer, have hair on their chest and don't watch Oprah are in....I'm back in style!

I don't exercise at all.
If God had wanted me to touch my toes,
He would have put them higher up on my body.

to me that just doesn't make sense...then we would have to have extra holes in our belts!
Big Dave out!

2010-05-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

"Well- timed silence hath more eloquence than speech"...Martin Fraquhuar Tupper.

Are you paying attention Andrea Johnson, Cindy Adams, Sandra Legacy, Tanya Earle, Rhonda Cunningham and especially Dave Hughes! Just a shout out to the heckle crew...I am sensitive you know, in fact a tear just hit the keyboard...ooops, that was just me not being able to drink from a bottle properly, false alarm! To think, I, who treats everyone with respect and dignity, doesn't get the same in return...what is the world coming to!

I visited the Breeze and Star radio studio's last Thursday and did interviews with Joel Scott and Mike Cutting...great guys. Joel put me in the hot room...I thought I was under interrogation! I almost admitted to having a beer the other day...but he couldn't break me! Just name, rank and serial number...I guess I just admitted it, didn't I?! The interviews were about the HIKE FOR HEALTH event...remember to sign up folks.
Did you know that a chameleon can move it's eyes in two directions at the same time?! It sounds like the Sarge at boot camp...can't get away with anything.

As per normal I was at the gym on Sunday...made sure I did my stretching for my shin splints. I did 45 minutes on the treadmill and even did a little jogging. Got off the treadmill, got ice from the freezer to put on my shins. My left leg had swollen in the area just above the ankle to below the calf...a very distinctive swelling. It appears it might be a tendon but frankly what do I know! Will have to show the Sarge on Monday and figure out game plan...did I happen to mention this getting healthy is killing me already?!?

On the topic of pain...we have another back to back hike coming up this Friday and Saturday. It will be a 40/25 this time. That will be our last back to back training session before the Hike for Health event on June 18 and 19th.

In the words of that fine comedian Lily Tomlin..."I always wanted to be somebody, but now I realize I should have been more specific!"
Big Dave out!

2010-05-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

Somebody pretending to be Michael Jackson was seen at Bodilogix the other day...Trevor. He gave me a shout so he could demonstrate his spin move on the treadmill...show off. All I know if he starts to spin, grab his crotch and make a squeal sound I'm leaving!

The Sarge is away for a week...it's a time of fun and relaxation at good old Bodilogix. Let the good times roll! Imagine, a whole week of not getting the "evil eye"! She should really get that fixed anyways...that's all I'm saying.

Been doing some stretching to help with the shin splints. I also ice them down after each work out. My shoulder is still screwed up so i haven't done any weights for about five days or so...just been doing cardio. I'm falling apart! This getting healthy is killing me!I just hope everything will be healed up by the time the Hike for Health event happens...that will be one heck of a hike.

Talking about the Hike for Health...please register early so you can order your shirt size! Just go to http://www.hikeforhealth.ca/ and get the process started. The money raised is used to purchase equipment, not just for the hospital but for you, me and our family members! Let's get the state of the art equipment for our hospital...none of us our getting out of life's journey alive so we might as well be comfortable along the way! Thinking of that...do they serve beer and pizza at the hospital???
"Always hold your head up, but be careful to keep your nose at a friendly level"...truly words to live by in the animal kingdom!
Big Dave out!

2010-05-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

Hello folks...what a walk that was! We did 40 k on the Friday and then 20 k on the Saturday. It actually turned out a little shorter then 20 so since we are uber athletes, are next back to back will be a 40/25...really looking forward to that one!! As it was I had shin splints in both legs for the last 10 k's of Saturdays walk. Did that ever hurt! Cindy Adams felt so much pity for me she went out and got me two bags of frozen peas so I can put on my shins when I was back at the gym! Isn't that a nice thing to do?! Only one thing bothered me though...I asked for Green Giant and she got me No Name stuff...the healing process will be slower.

Learned something new on Saturday's walk...the Sarge had an "activating ass" going on! I have no idea what she was talking about...possibly a cramp...I think?! Of course the "ass" jokes came out, all from Cindy mind you....she's going to "asspire to something greater" or she's working on her "assterpiece"! I ask...how can I truly realize and channel all my efforts with such foolishness going around!

I've been riding my bike into the gym over the last week and I almost had a close encounter with a squirrel. I didn't realize the bike was so stealthy...I was riding along and I noticed a black squirrel in front of me. He on the other hand hasn't seen me yet. So...I'm thinking to myself...what a cute little creature...now shoo little fuzzy creature of the forest. Nope...he just sits there...so I think, it's time to run away little bushy tail climber of all trees and bird feeders! Nope...he's now staring me down! So...all right you little ugly, plague infested, tree rat your time has come!! He moved. Ahhhh...nothing like getting back to nature.

Talking about nature...during our numerous hikes I have learned that Rhonda Cunningham has a phobia about dogs. Any time a dog would start barking or come close to the road she would panic and push me in front of her...I'm so happy she doesn't have a phobia about Mack Trucks!!

One of the worst asked questions of all time..."Other than that Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?"

Read in the news...suicidal twin kills sister by mistake.
Back to the hikes again...Angel joined the Sarge and i for the 40 K. She's a strong walker just like Kristen, Rhonda, Tanya...they get on my nerves...they are mere specs on the horizon.
On the 20 k we were joined by Sandra Stothart, J.R,his step son, and Cindy Adams...she gets on my nerves too.
Big Dave out!

2010-05-11T05:36:00.000-07:00

OUCH!!
I wrecked my left shoulder on Tuesday...now I have a matching set...lucky me! I should have known better, a few days a go I was doing a shoulder exercise that I've never tried before, not even in my youth. I felt I had wrecked something then, but it was just tender...so I decided to just work through the pain. What a mistake! While doing a upper body exercise, not the same one either, my shoulder had severe pain...I almost released the F bomb. I think I might have to cut back on the weights for awhile to get healed up and concentrate more on the cardio for the next few weeks. Spoke to the Sarge...upper body weights are off the training routine until next week and then we will re-evaluate.

Speaking of upper body work outs; I saw Cindy and the Sarge talking for about thirty minutes instead of getting their work out in. I asked if this was their upper body workout...you know just moving the lips! Cindy laughed...the Sarge simply stared at me. Cindy actually called it a "yapper body workout"...how true.

I was discussing with some of the ladies at the gym about gel seats for my bike. It's amazing what I learn at that place, but apparently they have gel pants now! Thanks Irene! I was picturing the whole gel pant situation and I couldn't stop laughing...why not just wrap me up in bubble wrap and send me out the door!

Speaking of bikes and heading out the door...I still don't know how to run the gears and for the life of me, I can't find the heater on the bike?? The mornings have been freezing! I had an old timers moment on the bike this morning...came up to the stop sign and tried to brake with my foot on the peddle! Needless to say i wasn't stopping very quickly, so I looked like I was mule kicking in a panic to stop! I finally clued in...stopped successfully. I have to celebrate these little victories.

Dietary update...I love cooking with wine, sometimes I even put it in the food. Yee Haw!

"You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage him"...

Big Dave out

2010-05-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

By the look of the latest comments it would appear I'm a hit in China! Just goes to show spam is everywhere.

i completed the whole 40 k on Friday. The layered socks and the cushioned soles really helped. The bruise was still sore but not enough that I would have to stop. I changed my routine after the hike which also really helped. I use to get into a hot bath with Epsom salts and take some Tylenol to ease the pain; I would be sore and generally feeling like crap the next day. This time I went into the shower and turned it on as cold as I could handle it, took Advil, had a Gatorade and also a banana. By doing this I was reintroducing the lost potassium, electrolytes and salts back into my body. It worked! On Saturday morning I hit the gym and was feeling great! Went on the treadmill and the elliptical. That will be my new routine.

Joining me on the hike were the Sarge, Kristen and Rhonda Cunningham. Everybody did a great job. Needless to say by the time we were nearing the 30 k mark I was solidly in last place. I'm going to put that down to the age difference!

After the hike one of the ladies had to show off her leg muscles...telling people to feel this one! I won't name that person, but it wasn't the Sarge or Kristen.

Starting Monday I'll be riding my bike to the gym and work everyday...ten months ago you would have never heard me say that!
Monday morning...rode bike to gym which is a distance of 5 k's. It was freezing this morning and I didn't have any gloves on...man that was cold. Learned two lesson's today while on the bike...always give right of way to big trucks and get someone to show me how to use the gears! It's been years since I've been on a bike so I had the same gear in place whether going up hill or down.
Changed routine at the gym. I was on the treadmill and I tried something different...I walked backwards. I got this idea from watching Trevor and Kim...they made the transition look so graceful. Well...from my lips to God's ears, nobody told me i was supposed to slow the machine down first before trying to walk backwards!! The belt on the machine was trying to shoot me off into the wall and at the same time i was holding on to the arm rails with all my strength! I was almost horizontal on the damn thing. Once I recovered my footing I looked around the gym to see if anyone witnessed the event....nope! I look back on the last ten months and I'm really surprised I'm still in one piece!
Big Dave out

2010-05-04T07:18:00.000-07:00

This gem is from a guest contributor..."Thank you for calling the Weight Loss Hotline. If you'd like to lose a half pound right now, press "1" 18,000 times!" Oh the laughter...

I put this in the blog because I like to encourage the amateurs, the little people...I'm giving back to my peeps.

Several times after shaving my head for Cops for Cancer I've almost scarred myself. After working out I have a shower (that's good news all around) and then fifty years of training kicks in...I get my comb out to style the do and run the teeth of the comb across my scalp! Ouch! You would think after the first event I would have learned...nope, did it twice. After examining said scalp, I look like I slept on a corduroy pillow case! At least the lines are nice and even.

Another 40 k hike coming up on Friday. Hopefully my feet won't be in too much pain from the blisters and the deep bruise i have on the ball of my right foot. My intention is to walk the whole distance but if it gets too painful then I'll have to stop and let the bruise heal properly. I really don't need this aggravation this close to the 100 k Hike for Health event in June.

In preparation for the hike on Friday I've purchased what they call double layer socks...specifically meant for long distance hikes and runs. Apparently this will help with the blister situation, I hope so. I'm going to put a small gel cushion at the balls of my feet to try and cushion them for the walk...again I hope this helps.

Not sure how many folks will be walking this Friday, could be a small group. Chris Littlechild is going away this weekend hence he'll be a no show. Kristen the gazelle won't walk if it's raining! What a wimp! Doris Biron can't make it as she has a hair appointment. I said she should cancel it...nope. She's trying for the "Golden Comb Award" for best hair style at Bodilogix...another wimp. It's lonely at the top.
I am nobody.
Nobody is perfect.
Therefore I am perfect.
Yesterday I was at the gym doing my normal routine...chatted with Cindy for a second. All of a sudden we both heard this scream/yell! It was terrifying! We looked over to see if someone needed 911...nope...it was just the Sarge training a newbie! Welcome to Bodilogix...the House of Pain!
Big Dave out!

2010-05-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

thanks for all the prayers for Jen! On a good news story, one of my other nieces, Katie Maguire, came in second in public speaking for the whole Province last Saturday! She had attend various locations throughout the Province to compete and it all wrapped up last weekend...great job Katie!

Did a 40 k hike last Friday...I still have the blisters to prove it! I was doing great right up to the 27 k mark, I could actually feel the one blister start...pain.

Kristen (the gazelle) and Tanya Earle rocked the last part of the hike. They were mere specs on the horizon...

This was Tanya's first hike, she only did the last 20 on this one but since she is the boot camp queen; i knew she wouldn't have a problem with this. When we were in the van on our way back to the gym she said..."i thought it would have been harder"...I used to like her.

Did you know that a brisk walk burns about the same amount of calories in an hour as a run or jog? So...just get out and start walking. Speaking of walking, don't forget about the Hike for Health this June 19th...come out for a hike in the woods. As long as your not the slowest you'll be fine...the bears and wolves always go after the weakest link!
In just two days from now, tomorrow will be yesterday...interesting hey?!

I was in the Cops for Cancer Event two weeks ago...I still have the shaved head. Very little upkeep with the new style. I think I should get the Mr. T starter kit, get some gold chains and stuff. Maybe I should grow a goatee, look like a biker that has his Harley days far behind him and really should get the Moped out!
Big Dave out!

2010-04-26T10:26:00.000-07:00

Hello folks...I missed a whole week of blogs last week but it couldn't be helped. I know this blog was set up for me to talk about my weight loss challenge and to raise money for the hospital but I'm going to make an exception today...I'm sure the committee won't mind.

This blog is dedicated to my niece, Jenilee McEwen, who was involved in a terrible car accident a week ago last Sunday. Jen and her boy friend Chad were near Lindsay on their way to visit Chad's brother. I don't know the cause of the accident and at this point I don't really care, but they were t-boned at an intersection. Jen was the passenger and took the brunt of the impact. She needed to be air lifted to Sunny Brook Hospital in Toronto and had emergency surgery; severe head trauma. The surgery was required to save her life. Even after the surgery was complete the doctors said it was now up to Jen to fight for her life and they were there to support that fight...but that's all they could do. The first 24 to 48 hours were going to be crucial...we're now 192 hours later!! Jen's a fighter! This has been a nightmare for the whole family but of course more to her parents, Scott and sandy and to her brother Ian. Very proud on how they have conducted themselves in this time of crisis...some people run and hide but they held firm and have been there for Jen and i know she feels their presence! Jen is breathing on her own now but is still in a coma. We won't know the results of any brain functions for awhile but knowing Jen's fighting attitude, beautiful spirit and love of life...she'll pull through better than ever!!

Who is Jen you might ask? She's a beautiful young woman with only 22 years under her belt. She is a Registered Practical Nurse. She was born and raised in Cobourg, was involved in Highland Dancing, loves to laugh....and argue, I mean debate, with her parents, sibling, Chad, Aunts, cousins and believe it or not Uncles!! I can understand the others, but moi?! It is this sense of sticking up for herself and saying what she means that will now help her fight this battle of battles in her young life. She's a true Scottish (ancestry) beauty inclusive of freckles. She hates her freckles but those are just beauty spots Jen.
It is during these moments when we are tested and in turn truly define our character. I've always said life isn't a dress rehearsal and shouldn't be taken in baby steps...Carpus Diem! Hug your children and tell them you love them!
Please say a prayer for Jen and her family....
Love you Jen!
Uncle Dave out!

2010-04-15T08:23:00.000-07:00

Another Thursday is here and another weigh-in has taken place...but I can't tell you anything. that concludes my blog today....kidding.

The Fame body building show is only two days away and i have to say how proud I am of the group from Bodilogix! I have watched the four of them go through their ups and downs, their aches and pains and the sheer dedication it takes to compete! It is really amazing to watch! This group has been building muscle since last May! Then they go on a very restrictive diet that started in November! Amazing! This sport takes place 24/7...no breaks or lapses! I have nothing but admiration for Andrea, Cindy, Chris and Devin...way to go guys and I know you'll do well at the show! If you don't...then don't show up at the gym! Oh I kill myself! I also think having the four of them doing this at the same time as helped each of them get through it. It is an individual sport but they've worked as a team and have been very supportive of each other. I do my part, you know words of encouragement that only I seem to be able to say...so encouraging that the Sarge yells at me...I'll miss those days! I guess it didn't help that I was laughing at the same time she's trying to give me crap...hey, I thought it was entertaining!

I was told today that I was being investigated for prostitution...giving away my body for money! Never thought of it that way! I guess I can now add that in my life experience file?! I think were up to about $12,000 so at least I'm not cheap!

Yesterday Trevor and Tita came in to the gym after riding their bikes all over town! Trev wanted to do some more exercise and Tita had enough. But when it comes right down to it Trev really doesn't do much when he's at the gym...he gets on the treadmill, puts it on super slow mode and then practices twirling and walking backwards like doing the moon walk! It's like watching one of the Temptations up there! Trev getting his groove on!

I drink to your health when I'm with you
I drink to your health when I'm alone
I drink to your health so often,
I'm starting to worry about my own!

I almost forgot, another 38 k walk on Monday coming up...yee haw!

Big Dave out!

2010-04-12T08:09:00.001-07:00

We have a very busy week coming up at Bodilogix...the Fame bodybuilding show will be this Saturday! We have four folks from the gym that will be competing in the event; Andrea Johnson, Cindy Adams, Chris Littlechild and Devin Olivieri. I know they will do us proud!

Andrea wanted me to go into the event this year but for some reason they scrapped the Sumo Division...they ran out of material for the thongs! Damn, i was looking forward to it.

Also on Saturday I will be getting my head shaved! The Cops Against Cancer event will be going ahead at 2pm at Northumberland Mall. Apparently 21 officers will be participating from as far away as Kingston! I have no doubt the cameras will be in full action that day!
Talking about cancer...the Relay for Life is coming up in June, another great event which i will have the honour of participating in with my great friend Trevor and family!

Yesterday morning I was in charge of the gym...just helping out the Sarge. About 8:45am I received my first phone call from her about a Detox Seminar that was going ahead that afternoon and that i needed to set up some chairs. No problem, i can handle that. I didn't know it was necessary to have a seminar about "detoxing"...I usually do that every morning! Anyways, after the phone call I had to ..."detox" so I attended Bodilogix Headquarters, in this case the men's change room. As I was contemplating the meaning of life the phone rang again! Fortunately being a dedicated volunteer at the gym i had brought the portable phone in with me. Well if it wasn't Andrea again! So here I am trying to detox while she's talking in one ear about detoxing and I have my ipod in the other ear listening to the Rolling Stones singing " I can't Get No Satisfaction"! Life has a funny way of unfolding at times!

Remember to follow your dreams...except the one where your naked in church!

The other day the sarge was wearing a fluorescent yellow shirt...now that was bright! It was like looking at the sun...I'm sure I got my full dose of vitamin D for a week!

There are good ships,
and there are wood ships.
The ships that sail the sea,
but the best ships are friendships,
and may they always be!

Big dave out!

2010-04-08T04:19:00.000-07:00

Another Thursday morning blog...not really a lot to report. I started off focused this week and it came crashing down near the end. Feeling a little off but that happens to all of us at times. So...no weight loss this week, still sitting at 92 pounds lost.

It would appear that the hiking gang wants to participate in a hike in Trenton near the end of the month in support of the Trenton Hospital. The walk is 22 k's...a walk in the park these days. I'll probably join them. It will help the Trenton hospital and with my own training.

Considering we have been talking a lot about walking i thought this was an appropriate quote..."Don't walk behind me, I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend"....Unknown.

I hope to be positive about being on the negative side next week.

Big Dave out.

2010-04-05T09:21:00.000-07:00

I see a few individuals fell for my April Fools blog! I know there was more but they're just not admitting it!
I had a good Easter...a little too much junk but that's okay, I planned for it. I don't call this my life style change anymore, it's my life style schedule...my book will be out next year. I don't think I can always look at food as simply fuel for my body, I need to enjoy food a little more than that. So I have a life style schedule now...I haven't told the Sarge yet, I'm sure she'll be impressed! Anyways it very basic, most of the time I will eat for fuel and then plan for certain holidays and occasions to indulge a little more without feeling guilty. Pretty simple really...it needs to be simple so I can follow it!
We had a great hike last Friday...35 k's were completed. We had the largest turn out so far, eleven people started the journey and seven completed the whole thing. The other folks were only schedule to complete half the route because of other commitments. I myself just refer to them as quitters...kidding! It was great to see Big Bob out there...I think enjoyed the walk and the fresh air. We had some injuries along the way...poor Cindy couldn't complete the last three K's as her feet were totally shot...mutant blisters! She wore shoes that weren't meant for this kind of thing, a lesson was learned I believe. Rhonda phoned me the next day as her feet had swollen, were blotchy and she could feel the heat coming off of them! Dr. Dave gave her some advice....suck it up buttercup! Welcome to the real world! Naw, I didn't say that, I'm not like the Sarge. She had worn the wrong socks...you should wear socks that are the wicking kind or what Doris told me on the hike a sock that is made of smart wool. If you don't wear the right equipment you'll be in a world of pain!
Anyways my knees were completely fine during the walk...no braces at all, but I ended up with a painful (is there any other kind) shin splint at about the 10 k mark. It's still sore.
The next walk is planned for April 19th.

Big Dave out

2010-04-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

GREAT NEWS!! I weighed in this morning and I reached the 100 pound mark!! Wow...what a relief! More to go though.

We have a record number of folks joining in on the hike tomorrow which is terrific. I think we have about ten people. The weather is supposed to be warm so I'll be leaving the big orange coat at the gym. In fact it's way too big for me now anyhow...anybody want an orange coloured family tent?! Maybe the Sarge will hang it up on a gym wall...a bodilogix hall of fame. Or it could also be used as a drape for the bay doors!

F. Scott Fitzgerald once said...." The test of a first rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function". That's very interesting because recently I was debating in my mind about global warming...is there such a thing or not? But...on top of that I was thinking that a cold beer and pizza would be perfect right now! So, not only did I have opposed ideas I was also thinking of a third idea! I must be special...people tell me I'm special all the time. I just don't understand why they throw their hands up in the air and shake their heads when they say it though? I guess some people speak with their hands.
Did you know that a car travelling 100 mph would take more than 29 million years to reach the nearest star. I can just imagine the kids in the back of the car...."are we there yet?".

APRIL FOOLS!! I didn't reach the 100 pound mark yet...I couldn't resist.

I wish everyone a Happy Easter or Passover this weekend! If your not so inclined then take the time to enjoy your family and freinds on this long weekend...and drive safe!

Big Dave out!

2010-03-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

I've been back into the gym last two days and it feels good after missing almost a whole week. On Sunday morning I was using the elliptical machine near the window. Of course Irene is working and has the soccer game on. I actually witnessed a goal...first soccer goal I've seen in four years! It's a rare event! Irene pointed out a score on the tv screen from another soccer game that was going on...she made a point that the score was 7 nothing. I had to tell her the other team didn't show up! I digress; there I was on the elliptical with the excitement of the soccer game on the big screen tv...I had to make a choice of watching the game or looking out at the window at the water tower. Did you know there are 32,363 bricks on the water tower! It also needs to be repointed.

The Sarge is getting all pumped up for the 35 K walk this Friday...I would almost rather watch a soccer game...almost!
Did you know that in Cleveland, Ohio, it is illegal to catch mice without a hunting licence!! Holy crap! How big are those mice! Somebody should tell them that its the kangaroos that escaped from the zoo thirty years ago.

Back to soccer again...Irene told me that one of the benefits of soccer is that it has a 90 minute time limit. It doesn't go into overtime like hockey. That's a very good point. But that was done because studies have shown that if soccer games went longer than 90 minutes the suicide rates would go up! Poor Irene.
Looking forward to a good week in the gym!

Big Dave out!

2010-03-24T14:31:00.000-07:00

Sorry I missed putting on my normal Thursday blog...it's been a very busy and crazy week; more up and downs then a roller coaster! Due to circumstances beyond my control I haven't made it into the gym much this week. I've been tied up on a course which made it difficult to fit it in. Tomorrow is Saturday so I hope to be able to refocus my energy and get the job done for the hospital and of course for myself.

I did weigh in this morning and even though I'm no longer supposed to advise if I lost anymore weight...they didn't say that I couldn't report that I stayed the same! Even after doing that 32 k walk I didn't lose a single pound! So, I'm still stuck at 92. I kind of figured that would be the case this week.

I've been attending a Health and Safety course in Peterborough and I would like to share some of the knowledge that I've gained...I'm sure you'll find it useful! Recent studies have shown that there is a "mist" from your toilet after flushing! I didn't know that! It can actually reach 20 feet in the air...wonderful. All I can say is keep everything in your bathroom in drawers! I think I'm going to patent the "no mist" toilet and sell it to Home Depot. But, that might end up being a crap shoot though....

sorry...not much else to say this week.
Big Dave out.

2010-03-20T06:24:00.000-07:00

We survived!! Yes folks, we survived the 32 k hike on Friday. I only have about three blisters on each foot but whose counting. We were actually setting a good pace and were able to complete the hike in about 6 1/2 hours...not bad considering the few rest stops that had to be taken along the way. This time we made sure we had enough water and I think that made a huge difference on our energy level, I know it certainly did for me. Thanks to Tom Lewis for bringing out a re-supply of the H2O when we were about half way through the walk.

I know this isn't the topic that is usually brought up in highly regarded blogs or conversations...but since my blog isn't highly regarded I can get away with it! I think I set a world record on that hike...I had flatulence for the whole 32 k's!! Thank God we were walking by horse and chicken farms along the way! I'm serious! Maybe that's the reason for the good pace...did you know that flatulence can come out at a speed of 7 km an hour?! I guess I had the turbo thrusters on! Now you know why you read this blog, just to find out important information like that.

I forgot to mention in my last blog when I said about taking that first step...make sure you check with your doctor first! Also, link up with a good personal trainer to get you started on the right path! Fortunately I have a great doctor (Emery) and a great trainer (Sarge) who have kept this rust bucket moving.

Had another workout with the Sarge this morning...she was not in a good mood. The sun wasn't shining and the birds weren't singing in the Sarge's world this morning! She was doing some push ups and I was only trying to encourage her. I simply said..."you can do more than that"...oh boy! She got up and pointed her scrawny, but muscular, finger at me and started yapping. I can't even repeat what she said...she was even referring to me as "sir". The more she got mad the more I laughed...who has more fun than me I ask? I started to look over my shoulder because I thought I would see a weight being hurled at me! She finally relaxed after consuming some carbs...can't wait for this body building show to be over! She only has 26 more days to go, but whose counting.

Big Dave out!

2010-03-17T09:29:00.000-07:00

The day after St. Patrick's Day and I'm pleased to announce...I behaved myself! No green beer or Irish stew and biscuits. I was tempted mind you, but I was able to resist. The thought of weighing in this morning kept going through my head. Speaking of weight, I lost three pounds which brings my total weight loss to 92 pounds! Apparently this is the point that I'm supposed to stop reporting my weight so it becomes a surprise on July 01st...hopefully it's a good surprise! But no worries I'm sure I'll come up with something to say on this blog. Just looking at that number (92) and it amazes me...wow! That is a lot of weight people and I still have more to go. Hopefully this will inspire other folks to tackle their own weight/health problems. Trust me, if I can do this so can you! You just need to take that first step...literally, and stay focused on your goal. There will be stumbles along the way but just accept that...you still have to live as well and enjoy some things...but after your stumble get back on your plan again without delay!

Still on the topic of St. Patrick's Day; did you know there are three forms of the Gaelic language? The Irish (Gaeilige), the Scottish (Gaidhlig) and the Manx. The last one I have never heard of before. The Gaelic language started in Ireland; it was called Goideleg. Near the end of the first millennium the language spilt as stated above into their different regions. Today only 200,000 can speak Gaelic in Ireland, 60,000 in Scotland and a mere 2,000 can speak Manx. Now you know.
The Sarge and I have a 32 k walk tomorrow...oh happy day. I'm going to bring more water this time! I started to get nervous when I saw the vultures circling around my head last week!
I'm back to doing two boot camps a week, it's a good cardio work out and I recommend that to anyone.

that's all for now...
Big dave out!

2010-03-13T07:44:00.000-08:00

Just read the Sarge's blog this morning...did it really have any kind of message?! It read like somebody was having an out of body experience! At least she finally put on a blog, the first one in a month!! I guess we can't be too hard on her as she is training for the Fame body building show in April, running a business and looking after two kids all at the same time. She's a go getter!

I attended my first boot camp in a while on Saturday...it felt really good to be back. Nothings changed, I still get abused.

We go on another hike this Friday...before leaving the gym on Saturday the Sarge had commented about making it a 32 k hike instead of just 30...why not, what's another 2 k!

On Sunday I lead a few ladies on a 10.5 k walk. We travelled through the wind, rain and sleet...just like the post office! Well done Trish, Angel and Sandra!

This Wednesday is of course St. Patrick's Day and since I won't be blogging until the day after I will leave you with an Irish saying. This used to hang in my in-laws house;

AN IRISHMAN'S PHILOSOPHY

There are only two things to worry about
either you are well or you are sick.
If you are well...
then there is nothing to worry about.
But if you are sick...
there are two things to worry about.
Either you will get well or you will die.
If you get well...
there is nothing to worry about.
If you die....
there are only two things to worry about.
Either you will go to Heaven or Hell.
If you go to Heaven there is nothing to worry about.
But if you go to Hell...
you'll be so damn busy shaking hands with friends
you won't have time to worry!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Big Dave out!

2010-03-11T07:41:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy week at Bodilogix and the campaign surrounding the Hike for Health: No Cop Out Challenge! On Monday the Sarge and I were interviewed at the COGECO studio for the show Municipal Matters...thanks Mark and Dave. The interview will be shown I believe six different times this week so hopefully you can catch one of them. The Sarge was in good form...I think I said three words!
On Tuesday we had the official media launch for the Hike for Health...most of the organizing committee were on hand and we were able to get a group photo which was great. Thanks to Peggy (Northumberland News), Ted (Northumberland Today) Susan (The Breeze and Star) and the ladies from SNAP for showing up and reporting on our message! Without the help from our local media partners this fund raising would be futile! I would be remiss if I also didn't thank Ben for the BURD REPORT...he has kept a link to my site on his blog since we started!

Yesterday we went on our 30 k hike...ouch! Actually I mean...friggin ouch! The last 2 k were killing me! Also we had run out of water at the 20 k marker...felt like we were walking in the Sahara! I noticed all the water running off the farmers fields and I was debating how bad would it be to drink some of that...sure a little pesticide, acid rain and cow ploppings doesn't sound very thirst quenching right now but it came very close to that then!! The last 2 k had us walking up a washed out seasonal road...we were trying to jump from one dry area to the next which was usually not dry at all...sunk into the mud just below the ankles! Needless to say this part of the route will be changed for next Fridays hike. We were finally greeted at the end of the route by Tanya Earle who provided a ride back in to town but also all the water we could drink!

A special mention needs to be made of Chris Littlechild...it was his first hike with us and the damn guy was running up the hills during the last 2 k's! I would have thrown a rock at him if he hadn't just given me his last few droplets of water!

oh yeah...I lost the two pounds that I had gained last week. Hoping for a big loss next week!

We all lived to walk another day!
Big Dave out

2010-03-08T10:56:00.000-08:00

Back into the swing of things this week. I've had some good workouts over the last few days which feels great. Since I've been back I've been able to increase the weights on all my exercises...maybe the one week layoff wasn't so bad after all?! Hopefully I lose the two pounds i had gained and more for Thursday. Time will tell.

We had a successful skating party on Sunday...probably about 60 people were out on their skates (some on their heads) having a good time. Some of the folks hadn't been on their skates in years and really enjoyed the opportunity to do so again. For me it's probably been about 8 years. I felt a little awkward and my feet were of course sore. I actually had to go and buy new skates as I had thrown out all my hockey equipment. Never thought I would be back on the ice again! After the skate we all went back to Bodilogix for coffee, hot chocolate, muffins, cookies, cake and protein shakes. I only indulged in the "healthy" cookies that Helen had made from the "Eat Clean" books. I wonder how many healthy cookies one can consume to make it unhealthy? Man, they were good!
I would be remiss if I didn't report that we had one casualty...poor Cindy actually did end up on her head! And for the record...I was nowhere near her! Fortunately she's a real trooper and only needed four staples to close the gash! Ouch! Needless to say she missed all the goodies back at the gym. A big thank you to my sister-in-law Sandy who drove Cindy to the hospital and stayed with her until she was released. I'm sure this will cost me down the road! Cindy is doing fine and relaxing at home.

We've moved up the 30 k hike this week to Wednesday. The Sarge was upset about the weather forecast for Friday that being wet snow...break out the crying towels! I think she's getting a little wimpy leading up to her bodybuilding show in April!
That's it for today.
Big Dave out.

2010-03-03T05:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the first day back to the gym in almost a week!!! I probably missed at least five days along with missing all the boot camps. It was a combination of other commitments and not feeling very well...life can do that to you sometimes. I had a good workout with the Sarge but we didn't push it too hard since it was my first day back. It was good to get back!! So having said that my weigh-in this week was a gain of two pounds. Oh well, I'm back to my normal self now and I know that will be gone by next week along with some more poundage...I hope.

Looking forward to the 30 k hike next week. The Sarge and I worked out a schedule for future hikes that would allow us to properly train for the 100 k hike in June, oh what fun! There appears to be a lot of people at Bodilogix that have an interest in participating in at least part of the hike in June...the more the merrier!

A great quote from the one and only Yogi Berra..."I never said most of the things I said". Hopefully he wasn't testifying in court at the time!

Did you know that when Coca Cola was first produced it was green in colour. Not sure if a a rye and coke would be so popular today!? Maybe on St. Patrick's Day though.

that's all for now folks...
Big Dave out.

2010-02-25T09:17:00.000-08:00

What a nice feeling...I finally was able to embarrass "Stateside Sandra" into making a pledge for the Cops for Cancer event! Will miracles never cease! Having said that though...I still don't have her confirmation on the amount. Remember Sandra, i have connections in the FBI.

Leading a group on March 14th for a little 10 k hike. I was looking forward to getting back into the gym after the walk and sitting down in front of the TV with Irene and watching soccer. Every Sunday morning, Irene has the soccer network on...and i mean every Sunday morning. I thought it would be a nice way to end the walk; enjoy (never thought enjoy and soccer would be in the same sentence) a soccer game while sipping on a hot tea and crumpets. But ACH NO ( Scottish accent or phlegm...your interpretation), she's going to Florida that week! So much for the team spirit at Bodilogix...all trips to Florida are now cancelled. Now I have to come up with Plan B for the walkers...could just be water, party on!

Research has shown that the 6 following foods boost your body's fat-burning potential;

1) leafy greens

2) cinnamon

3) soybeans

4) Pizza...loaded with salami, pepperoni etc.

5) Probiotics

6) apples

Did you know that more than 50,000 students from all over the world have graduated with "Bachelor of Hamburgerology" degrees from McDonald's Hamburger University!! Seriously, I couldn't make this up! It must be a real mchappy day when they mcgraduate!

Busy weekend...didn't make it to the gym once! Not good but sometimes that happens.

Big Dave out!

2010-02-23T10:40:00.000-08:00

I was just thinking, which is very scary, on how we all know what we need to do to become healthier. We certainly know the basics anyways, stay away from fatty foods (trans fat), fast food outlets, eat more veggies, exercise body and mind, get enough sleep and so on. We all know the simple rules but we just don't want to follow them. It's strange how that works out and in reality, it really isn't that hard to follow...if it's truly your goal. I think that is the difference for me this time, it is really what I want...to get healthy. I've gone down this road so many times in the past but I have never been this focused on truly changing my lifestyle. If this is your goal...I know you can do the same thing! It's a matter of taking the first step...literally. Get off the couch, throw away the chip bag and go for a walk. You'll be amazed how quickly you can see a difference in yourself and I just don't mean weight. The weight issue is only part of the equation, I also mean inches and also feeling better about yourself in general. Your outlook on tasks and life will change and all for the better! We know the theory behind weight loss, we just need to put the theory into action. A fellow by the name of Friedrich Engels once said..."an ounce of action is worth a ton of theory"...that is very true!

Take that first step!!

I took a minute to review some of my blogs....oh the grammar mistakes! Oh well, as long we're all having fun!

Less than a month to St. Patrick's Day! Well bless me lucky charms! I'll have a few pints on that day for sure.

On Wednesday I went into Bodilogix to get a protein shake for lunch and of course I was greeted by the Sarge. She prepared the normal "wild berry blast" shake and I was about to head out the door. I made a comment about I'm off to fight crime, battle injustices and preserve the Canadian way of life...all true of course. I then said I was going to change into a phone booth. Then...from behind the Bodilogix bar, the voice of the Sarge rang out..."at least you can fit into one now!". I've double booked a therapy session for this week.

Did you know that the worlds strongest beer is "Samuel Adams" Triple Bock, which has 17% alcohol by volume. Apparently they use Champagne yeast to get the alcohol content up! I never thought an American beer would be the winner in this category. Will wonders never cease! Did i happen to mention that St. Patrick's Day is less than a month a way??

Yes, I weighed in this morning. I didn't lose a damn thing! Another zero, that's the second one in the last three weigh-ins! I'll still keep plugging away as I know I'm doing all the right things...as i said earlier, it's not only about the weight.

Big Dave out

2010-02-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

I see some interest (Sandra) in getting a picture of Big Bald Dave...everybody once to laugh! Since i have a sense of humour I will indeed send a picture to whoever wants one as long as they make a donation! I don't know how to post a picture on this site and I'm not sure I would want it here anyways! But if you do want a picture as me portraying Uncle Fester then send me an e-mail with a commitment to make a pledge...doesn't have to be a lot.

Doc Kathy is good with the comebacks...She had been doing the leg press and i made a comment about the weight she was using. She looked me straight in the eye, no smile at all and said that was just for her baby toe! That just confirmed what i was thinking....she's on roids!! She's juicing! Someone call the IOC!

I've missed the past four boot camps, I've been a baaaaad boy. Oh well I've still been showing up doing my own thing...without the harassment of the ladies! Reminds of the Simon and Garfunkel hit..."Silence is Golden".

There appears to be a growing interest to participate in the hiking that the Sarge and I have been doing but unfortunately most people can't go on Fridays. So, I will be leading a Sunday morning crew on some walking excursions. We will start off with only a 10 km walk so everyone can ease in to it. We will leave Bodilogix at 9 am and return around 11am, or thereabouts. The first Sunday morning will be Sunday March 14th.

Don't smoke too much, drink too much, eat too much or work too much. We're all on the road to the grave ---but there's no need to be in the passing lane! (Robert Orben)

Big Dave out!

2010-02-17T08:23:00.000-08:00

The Sarge introduced me to "super sets" on my legs the other day in the gym. It went well until I did the squats...I had a difficult time with the bar on my shoulders as my shoulders are screwed up. I could barely get my hand back far enough to keep the bar balanced. I completed the sets but I paid the price the next day. My shoulders and neck were killing me to the point I didn't even attend boot camp the next night. I'm sure the ladies missed me!

It appears that the Cops for cancer event will take place on Saturday April 17 at 2:00pm. The shaving will take place at Northumberland Mall...I'm going to bring a warm hat with me!

It's been fun watching the Olympics when working out, the athletes are very inspirational to watch. Amazing how much dedication they have put towards their sports, most of them it has been a life long experience.

The Sarge was telling me about her trip to the zoo on the weekend. For some reason that brought up the topic that this was the year of the Tiger according to the Chinese culture. Appropriately I was born in the year of the "pig"...that fits! I killed myself laughing when she told me she was born in the Year of the "Rooster"! Now that fits!

I weighed in this morning and I lost 4 pounds!! Man was I ever happy about that! I thought I was going to go into a plateau, but not yet! The new total now is 88.5 pounds! I've been asked by the committee not to report on my weight loss once I reach the 90 pound mark to keep the interest up for the final weigh-in on July 01st, which makes sense. So, hopefully I'll have the 90 by next week and then after that you'll only hear me rambling on about my pain and experience...aren't you lucky?!
Big Dave out!

2010-02-12T11:05:00.000-08:00

On Friday the Sarge, Kristen and myself went out on the 25 Km march. It was a clear day but very cold...my water even froze up! My right knee was acting up the whole way, it was just a constant pain but it never got worse to make me stop. We certainly had a few laughs along the way which made the walk much more enjoyable. We stopped for a little lunch at the intersection of Harwood road and Crossen Road...right on a sharp bend. Nobody ever gave us credit for brains! The vehicles were just screaming around that corner and we just stood there...couldn't move, to numb! We enjoyed a wrap the Sarge had prepared for us...she got the idea from Deanne from our last walk. It was whole wheat wrap with peanut butter and pecan and dried cranberries in it...it was great! Kristen kept on talking how crunchy it was...believe it or not that just cracked us up, I think we were just happy to be alive at that point! We also looked at ourselves and we came to the conclusion we were quite the crew, me with a big orange coloured coat, the Sarge and her big red maple leaf on her coat with some kids knapsack and Kristen looking like she was ready to scale the Alps. Surprised the police weren't called to take us back to the home!

We finally completed the route and were greeted by Tanya Earle who was a great cheerleader and supplier of a much needed tea...didn't have any Bailey's though!

This morning we scheduled our next hike which will be Friday March 12...this will be 30 Km's. Hopefully the weather holds for us on that day. Again, if your interested come out and join us.

I don't know why this came to mind...but it did. When we were walking on the 25 K the Sarge thought she could smell fabric softener...I guess my farts smell like Frebreeze!!

Big(Nice smelling) Dave out!

2010-02-09T10:43:00.000-08:00

Lately I've tried to do some research on dieting and possible new trends. I came across this one which I thought had a lot of merit to it...the Mars Bar Diet. Believe it or not that's what it's called and I think if done properly it would work. The diet is also very simple to follow....simply get a Mars bar, stick it up your arse and let a Rottweiler chase you home! Brilliant! That fitness tidbit was brought to you by Billy Connolly, the Scottish comedian.

I see Trev is looking forward to me getting my head shaved...it's not going to look pretty that's for sure! My head is going to look like the surface of the moon with bumps, craters and indentations!

What do Eskimos get from sitting on the ice too long?

Polaroids! I know, I was walking on thin ice on that one. I kept you iglooed to the screen though! I certainly amuse myself.

Lately I've been spending more time on the elliptical machine, usually 30 to 45 minutes at a time. According to the machine I usually burn up 500 to 800 calories per session. I made the change to my routine just to shake things up much like the Sarge having me do super sets now when weight training.

It would appear that we'll have 50 to 60 people for the Bodilogix skating party...good turn out!

Well, I weighed in this morning and I didn't lose a damn thing! The big zero, nada, nothing! I guess I really can't complain as I looked back on my weight loss chart and this is only the third time in 33 weeks that I didn't lose any weight. I'm trying to look at the positive side.

Yesterday we had a meeting regarding the "Hike for Health" just fine tuning the event. I think one of the funniest comments I've heard in a long time came from Rhonda Cunningham. She asked ...."are animals allowed in the forest?"...I almost fell off my chair! In the words of Bill Engvall..."here's your sign". In fairness to Rhonda she was actually asking if people could bring their dogs on the hike, but it didn't come out that way.
Big 25 km hike tomorrow, better rest up.
Big Dave out.

2010-02-08T10:19:00.000-08:00

For the first time since I've started this weight loss journey I missed the gym two days in a row! Thursday and Friday I was a no show...sometimes life takes control and has other duties and plans. Saturday didn't start off very well, I slept in and missed boot camp. All is not lost though, i did go in a little later in the morning. Actually when I walked in to the gym I saw the Sarge, Jane and Melissa standing by a mirror...with their shirts lifted up! I'm sure I have your attention now! Don't worry, nothing was exposed, they were looking at their six packs...mine is still a one pack.

I've already have $500 raised for the Cops for Cancer event! Just to let Sandra from the States know...we do accept American money!

The Sarge and I will be doing another hike this Friday...February 12th. We will leave Bodilogix at 7:30 in the morning. If you're bored that day c'mon out and join us.

So far we have about 50 people signed up for the skating party...terrific. It will be a great time.

I didn't splurge on Sunday (Super Bowl)...just kept to my normal Sunday evening chili and water. Not even a single beer! Saving the beer for St. Patrick's Day.

Big Dave out.

2010-02-03T06:37:00.000-08:00

Last Tuesday's boot camp was very interesting, we had three members of the Finnan family present....Tanya, Aengus and Laura. Fortunately the Finnan family were fun, fickle and forever in fine form. I was abused the whole night.

Remember..."always drink upstream from the herd"- Will Rogers. I would say that is very good advice! Wouldn't want to get the trots...I kill myself.

On Wednesday morning the Sarge changed up my training, we're now doing super sets. Originally I thought that meant super fun, but no, why would I ever think that! I had to do five sets of pull downs and rotate them with five sets of bench press. Then I had to do five sets of chin ups with five sets of bench flys! I couldn't move my shoulders afterwards! The Royal Ontario Museum has asked me to go on display...the missing link between chimps and humans. My arms have been stretched so far from the chin ups that my knuckles are dragging on the floor! As I was leaving the gym someone through a banana at me...I immediately went ape!

I weighed in this morning, I lost 2 pounds which brings the grand total to 84.5 pounds lost. I'm thinking that 2 pounds is like getting the fivers at the beginning, can't ask for more than that. So, it was a good week! Can't wait for more super sets tomorrow!
Don't forget to sign up for the skating party on March 07th.
Wish to contact me re Cops for Cancer you can get me at david.cromlish@cobourgpolice.com
Big Dave out!

2010-02-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday was supposed to be my day off from training but i decided to go for a little walk anyways. I really didn't strain myself, basically got out of the house and walked 4 km's.
I'm back to doing two a day workouts again...I actually enjoy it! Strange how that happens. I still do my main workout in the morning and I go back for some cardio after work. Having the second workout just makes me feel more relaxed after work, it's all good.

I'm hoping for a good weigh-in on Thursday. I would love to get to the 85 pound mark. I've been eating healthy and really putting an effort in at the gym. Been using the elliptical more and I find that really works up a sweat...last night i did 45 minutes on it.

Over the last week I've been eating a lot of stir frys, chicken and lots of vegetables, namely peppers and zucchini. I use very, very little Olive Oil in the pan.

I see I have a comment from the peanut gallery. A sore loser has shown up on the scene (Sandra). I am not a "cheater", I'm an achiever. Competition is about setting goals and figuring out ways to achieve them, such as training and psychological advantages. So I did simply what was needed and I reached my goal. I'm still undefeated! It's not my fault that you didn't train properly! I actually could see you and the Sarge having kindred spirits....

That's all I have on the menu for today, soooooo...
Big Dave out.

2010-01-30T08:25:00.000-08:00

Attended boot camp on Saturday and amazingly the stations were all numbered properly...that just takes the fun out of it! Some of the more raucous people were out of whack at boot camp for some reason. I asked Linda why she was so quiet today...she said her biodex was out of sorts. Okay, I'll just leave that one alone. Dave Hughes actually showed up for boot camp, that's as rare as spotting Bigfoot! The only energy that Hughes expired that morning was trying to sing. He said he was going to celebrate his brother's birthday that night and they were going to do some Karaoke. I asked him to sing some (bad idea...bad, bad, bad). Soooooo, he starts singing "New York, New York". He sang a few bars and asked..."doesn't that sound just like Sinatra?" I had to agree with him, nothing like listening to a voice from the grave! It gave me shudders!

On Friday I was able to jog for 2.2 Km's, only 18 more to go for the half marathon!

Speaking of running it reminds me of one of my athletic achievements from years past. Many moons ago, Sandra from the States, used to be a dispatcher for the police. She challenged me to a race across the gym floor at the YMCA. Can you believe that...challenging moi! Yes, I was a porker at that time but I hadn't reached the big grand daddy porker stage yet. So...the race was on! If you know any of the Cromlish men you'll know how competitive we can be! When my family and my brother's family get together, even Monopoly is a contact sport! Keep that in mind while I relate this story. So, here we are lined up at the wall of the gym...fancy feet Sandra and the porker. There is no way she is going to win! I smoked her right out of the blocks ( we were supposed to start at the number 3, I left at 2). I'm racing down the gym, I'm in the moment, the wind (ceiling fan) was blowing through my hair....I was on fire! Then I heard it...the pitter patter of little feet coming behind me and getting closer! I had to think fast ( the running wasn't working). Nothing like the perfect timed body check to solve the problem! Keep in mind you have to make it look like a lane infraction on the other persons part. Needless to say, I won!! The moral of the story...is there is none, but I still won! I retired from racing after that keeping my perfect record. Poor Sandra, she was never that same after that.

One of Cobourg's newer officer's, Michael Richardson, lost a good friend to Cancer recently. This loss has inspired Michael to arrange for a "Cop for Cancer" event in Cobourg. If you're not aware of such events, Cops will get their heads shaved in support of a cure for cancer with pledges being gathered to encourage the participants to go bald. I think this is a wonderful cause and I fully support what Michael is doing! Chief Paul Sweet and Staff Sergeant Terry Demill have already signed on. I'm going to place my head on the chopping block as well...I'm going to look like Uncle Fester from "The Adams Family"! I know these are very hard economic times for many people, but if you have a few dollars to spare and wish to make a pledge to see me with a bald head, then please e-mail me at david.cromlish@cobourgpolice.com, I'm not looking for a certain amount of money to do this. The event is tentatively scheduled for April 16, 2010.

A thought for the day: It may be your sole purpose in life is simply to serve as a warning to others. Uhmmmmm?
Big Dave out!

2010-01-25T08:52:00.000-08:00

My cousin Bruce advised me of the following, which i think is very important information. He sent an e-mail stating that a new wine has been made for Seniors. Apparently California vintners in the Napa Valley area, primarily produce Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio wines. They have developed a new grape that acts as an anti-diuretic. It is expected to reduce the number of trips to the bathroom during the night. The new wine will be marketed as ....Pino More! He got this information through the, wait for it...the grapevine!

The next hike, 25 km's, is now scheduled for Friday, February 12. If anyone feels the desire that they really have the inkling that they need to walk 25 k's then come on out! We start from Bodilogix at 7:30 AM. I expect it will take us about five hours.

News Bulletin! It appears that I am now the Bodilogix Director of Delight, the Pharaoh of Phun, the Executor of Excitement. Apparently I volunteered, I don't remember it that way, but why live in the past. The first thing on the schedule is a Skating Party on Sunday March 07th, from 11:30 AM till 1:00 PM. I have booked Pad II in Cobourg for the fun filled event. After the skating is done then hot chocolate and a healthy snack will be served at Bodilogix. All Bodilogix members and their families are welcome to come out enjoy a healthy winter activity...free! A sign up sheet will be placed in the gym so we can get a handle on the numbers.

Tuesday nights bootcamp was very entertaining, basically it was a free style event. The Sarge put a lot of thought into the order, that was obvious. We had 16 stations to do, the point of this style of training is to do them in order and each station is assigned a number. Well, the Sarge was in her own little world, we had two stations numbered 13, two numbered 14 and we went from station 4 to station 6...no number 5! It was pandemonium; part of the work out was just finding the right station to go to! Of course I didn't point this out to anyone...that's not my style.

Thursday is here...I lost 1.5 pounds this week which brings the new total to 82.5 pounds. I have to be honest, I'm a little disappointed, especially after doing the hike last week. Having said that I'm still a little closer to my goal.

That's all for now.
Big Dave out.

2010-01-23T08:13:00.000-08:00

Last Friday the Fearless Four commenced on a 20 km journey through the hills of Northumberland. This is part of the training componet for the 100 km challenge in June. We left Bodilogix at 7:30 AM, The Sarge, Doris Biron, Deanne Demattos and me in tow. The weather was fantastic for this type of torment, sunny and cool. The Sarge set the pace, holy sh&t! There must have been an emergency somewhere because we were flying out of the blocks! I couldn't believe the pace she was setting; I was almost at a trot to keep up! I was thinking to myself, there is no way I'm going to be able to keep this pace up, I better start looking for a taxi. She never let up, just go, go, go! My knees were sore, my back was aching and I had sweat pouring down my forehead. My breathing was rapid and I thought i felt some chest pains...we weren't even out of the parking lot yet! Only 19.99 km's to go; it's going to be a piece of cake, i mean carrot.

The Sarge did have quite the pace going at the beginning...she slowed down once we reached Dale Road and she had to blow her nose, that took a 1/2 an hour. We continued on our walk through the country roads. Doris was in her own little world, singing with blue birds flying around her head...mother nature. Deanne, the youngest in the group was just walking along wondering what the fuss was about, just taking it easy. The Sarge after setting the quick pace was now doing her boogaloo dance while walking...she was wondering why nobody was waving at us. People along the route were locking their children up in the house to protect them from the horror.

Around km number 7 I took the lead and kept it for the rest of the walk. I was feeling really good about myself! Here I am leading the way for these super fit women...I'm a star. My ego was greatly deflated though once I realized I was being used as wind break! Back to therapy.

After four hours of slogging we finally completed the 20 km walk. My wife Rosie greeted us with hot tea and a ride back into to town. I was sore for the rest of the day.

The next hike will be 25 km's long...can't wait.

On Saturday I attended boot camp...I was still sore from the previous day but I thought it was important to keep moving. I better have a good result this week!

Very glad to see some new people have signed up on my blog! Hey Sandra! Sandra now lives down in the States, maybe she can get me on Opray?!

Big Dave out

2010-01-20T07:22:00.000-08:00

AND...Thursday is here. I got on the scales of justice this morning and I lost a further three pounds. The new total now stands at 81 pounds lost! I can see the light at the end of the tunnel or should I say table! I was really hoping for a fiver this week, I put in all kinds of time in the cardio department, but oh well, I'll take the three and start working towards a fiver next week!

I had the honour of presenting the No Cop Out Challenge: Hike for Health event to County Council last Tuesday. I was joined at the speakers table by the Sarge. Behind us in support were John Russell and Rhonda Cunningham from the Northumberland Hills Hospital. I believed the presentation went well, basically asking for County Council support on the use of Northumberland Forest for the event. We heard later in the day that we got approval for the use of the Forest! Another step forward to getting the Hike for Health off the ground.

Rhonda had so much faith in me...she gave me a script to say!! Oh ye of little faith! I like to live on the edge and wing it. Nothing worse then just reading off a piece of paper, boring. Also, it's part of the fun not having something specifically thought out...speak how it feels to you at the moment and usually it works!

Remember...gargling is a good way to see if your throat leaks.

Ten Good Benefits to Exercise:

1) More energy

2) improved self-image

3) weight control without dieting (to lose weight they should go hand in hand)

4) Better conditioned heart and lungs

5) Less tension

6) Greater management of stress.

7) Less chance of injury

8) Better ability to fall asleep.

9) toned muscles

10) healthier cholesterol levels

11) quicker healing

12) keeps diabetes at bay or under control

13) Makes the Sarge happy...the most important one!

Big Dave out!

2010-01-15T07:27:00.000-08:00

I was reading that a police agency was having problems trying to solve the murder of a Redneck;

1) The DNA is all the same.
2)There are no dental records.

The same County passed the following Law; once a husband and wife are legally divorced...they are STILL cousins. The world keeps turning...

Just thinking about thongs again; they are actually the oldest piece of fashion known to the human race. Experts feel that thongs have been around for 75,000 years (Hughes has one that old)! Who would have thong that!? I kill myself.

I noticed that the Sarge tried her hand at poetry. Have our blogs really come to this!?

The organizing committee for the 100 Km Hike is slowly growing, we're small but mighty. If you wish to get on the committee or are willing to volunteer for the event (June 18-19th) then let the Sarge, John Russell, Doris Biron, Wendy Curtis, Chris Littlechild, Rhonda Cunningham or myself know.

The Sarge, Doris and I will be embarking on a 20 km hike next Friday...that will be a good and much needed test for sure. I'm a little nervous, but looking forward to it just the same.

I had another near catastrophe last week at the gym. This stuff can only happen to me! I was on the elliptical or snow shoe machine, whatever, and the back of my calf was itchy. The itch wouldn't go away so I leaned over to relieve the itch and the damn handle bar almost hit me in the head! If I was going any faster it would have knocked me out! We really should have been video taping my training because we would have been rich by now...Americas Funniest Video's.

On a very important note...PLEASE, if possible, try and donate to the Red Cross or the Salvation Army in support of the folks in Haiti! They are in desperate need and we need to do our part in the global village.

Big Dave out.

2010-01-12T12:35:00.000-08:00

There is definitely a few wild and crazy people at Bodilogix! Recently there has been talk of going skydiving and bobsledding! Sounds very exciting and I've always wanted to try those things. I looked into the skydiving out of curiosity, they have a weight restriction of 220 pounds. Damn! I'm sure they must have a cargo chute somewhere, even borrow one from the Air Force. Those chutes can lower a truck safely to ground...I'm sure one could get me down safely without breaking something...maybe. So, if I want to pursue that adventure then I'll have to wait a little while, maybe late summer. Now that I think about it, I'm sure the bobsledding must have a weight restriction as well, either that or we'll qualify for the Canadian Olympic Team!

It was great boot camp last night and the Sarge was in fine form. She announced that one of the participants was wearing a thong for the first time ever...proud of her weight loss. You just never know what's going to happen at that gym. Everybody was clapping...i didn't have the energy.

Did you know that the origin of the word "Thong" was from the Old English "Thwong" which meant a flexible leather cord...that really doesn't sound comfortable to me!

In Germany it is called a "tanga". In Bulgarian it is called "prashka" which means slingshot. I guess "K" is now carrying a concealed weapon!

How to annoy people; if you have a glass eye, tap on it occasionally with your pen while talking to others, or you could try this, decline to be seated at a fancy restaurant and simply eat their complimentary mints by the cash register...top it off by asking for a glass of water!

Oh yeah, I almost forgot...I weighed-in this morning and I lost my Christmas weight plus an additional pound! That should keep the Sarge off my back for a day or two. So I'm now down to 258 pounds which is a loss of 78 pounds.

Big Dave out!

2010-01-11T09:32:00.000-08:00

I weighed myself this morning, which means I broke a cardinal rule of mine. I only weigh-in once a week and that's on Thursday. I shouldn't have, but i was curious to see if some of my Christmas weight had come off...nope! I still have the same five pounds and I don't know why. I had some good work outs over the weekend which included a 8 km walk on Sunday. I ate clean all weekend as well. I spoke to the Sarge this morning about eating habits (I didn't tell her my weight though) and she told me I now have to eat only 400 calories per meal at the most. I also should cut out the pumpernickel...damn! I liked that with chili. By the way here's my chili recipe;
Ground sirloin
can of diced tomato's, sodium reduced.
can of tomato soup
onion
kidney beans...low cal. and low sodium
garlic and other seasoning to taste.
One bowl should only be about 300 calories.

So anyways, it appears I will have to shift my eating habits again and probably shake up my work out routine as well...give the body a kick start.

The sarge and I were guest speakers at the Cobourg Rotary Club last Friday...they even fed us lunch! Unfortunately the Sarge was following behind me while I was loading up at the buffet table. She looked at my plate and said she would give me an A plus if I lost the multi grain bun. I said I was happy only to receive an A and then I received the evil eye! Oh well, you only live once.

It appears that the Sarge and I will try and get our 20 km hike in this Friday...that's if our schedules are clear and the planets are aligned.

Hopefully by Thursday I'll have shed a few pounds.

Big Dave out.

2010-01-07T08:08:00.000-08:00

Hi folks,

The damage report is now in...I gained five pounds. I'm actually not too upset about it. I wasn't eating as cleanly over the last few weeks as I thought i would. Frankly I was eating too much crap. The one thing I learned the more junk food I ate the more I craved it. But it's all good, it was the festive season afterall and in reality five pounds isn't much all things being considered. This is still a life style change and not me turning into a machine. I'm pretty sure I'll be able to get the five pounds off by next thursday just by simply going back to my normal routine.

It's back to business. It's put up or shut up time! Bring it on baby!

After the weigh-in I got right on to the treadmill and did 7 km's, felt good; back in the game. I've also signed up for two bootcamps per week in January. The Sarge and I hope to get in a 20 km hike soon. We were supposed to go yesterday but life sometimes gets in the way.

A few Friends have recently joined Bodilogix over the last two weeks...that's wonderful! They are doing it smart, only needing to lose 10 to 20 pounds instead of waiting until they need to lose over a 100 pounds! It makes life much easier.

I'll put on a more detailed blog next week.

Big Dave out.

2009-12-28T10:33:00.000-08:00

New Years Eve:

"Youth is when you're allowed to stay up late on New Years. Middle age is when you're forced to." Bill Vaughn

As stated in my earlier blog, I didn't weigh-in this morning. I wanted to enjoy the season without feeling guilty so I'm holding off until January 07, 2010. Hopefully the sins of the last few days will have worn off by then. Talking about worn off, here is the loss in inches over the last 6 months;

Neck: 2.75 inches

Chest: 7 inches

Waist: 9 inches

Seat: 11.5 inches

For a grand total of 30.25 inches! Not bad I think.

My 2010 Goals:

1) 100 pounds by July 01st...of course.

2) 100 km hike on June 18 and 19th

3) Pass the Police Fitness Test

4) run the in the Picton half marathon, October 03, 2010.

5) To lose an additional 50 pounds between July and the end of the year, bringing the grand total to 150 pounds. That will get me below the 200 mark...actually 186 pounds.

News flash! Take some advice from a guy who has been there and is still tackling the weight issue...1) Start today because tomorrow never happens.

2) Consult with your doctor.

3) Invest in a good trainer, at least at the beginning. Learn the do's and don'ts!

4) Start slowly, but start!

5) You'll be sore at the beginning, but as my nephew Bryan put it "pain is temporary, pride is forever"

6) Invest in good shoes, make sure they fit properly.

7) Find a good gym...it comes with a built-in support system!

8) Get rid of the unhealthy food in your house...your family will understand.

9) Set some goals, but try and make them realistic.

10) Eat fruits, veggies, chicken, fish, some red meat! Don't eat anything deep fried. The only food that actually keeps the same nutritional value when deep fried is a Mars Bar! That's according to my daughter Carlie-Ann.

11) Do not try the Dean Martin diet...he went on a whiskey diet...in one week he lost four days!

"For last years words belong to last year's language and not next year's word's await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning." T.S. Eliot

I wish for everyone to have a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year!

Big Dave

2009-12-24T08:41:00.001-08:00

AND...CHRISTMAS IS OVER:

Another Christmas is over. You wait all year for it and then the next thing you know it's over in a blink of an eye. I've decided that I'm not going to weigh-in again until Thursday January 07th, 2010, giving myself a little break. Having said that, I'm still sticking to my game plan of what and when I'm going to eat. For example... (I started this blog the day before Christmas, there has been a change of plans! I pigged out on the 24th and 25th and I didn't feel good at all! I felt so crappy I've adjusted my plans, it's gone from 5 days to just 2...I'm done, no more crap in my system! It wasn't worth it at all. I had shortbread, chocolate, toffee and chips with dip. Oh, and also pop, diet of course. I think my system was in overload and didn't appreciate it. So, I'm done with it, healthy eating for the rest of the holidays).

Artificial Intelligence is no match for natural stupidity!

New Years Eve is upon us with hope of old challenges coming to fruition and new challenges to keep focused and stimulated. Of course the old challenges are still being aggressively engaged, that being the 100 pounds and the 100 km hike. I've added some new stuff to the mix, keeps things exciting. During 2010 I intend to participate in the Police Fitness Test. Actually not just participate but to pass the damn thing! The other new challenge is to run in a half marathon. Okay, maybe run isn't the correct description, how about shuffle a half marathon. I've already picked the one out, the Picton Marathon that is being held on October 03, 2010. I'll be taking the short cut (half marathon) which adds up to being 21.2 km's. I told the Sarge about the latest crazy idea and she's going to join in. She doesn't even agree with running but she's coming on board. I'm not going to make a habit of running in this kind of thing but i think it is something that I could strike off my bucket list (hopefully it doesn't end up being the last thing I strike off). So far I have a few people that are willing to join the Sarge and I, Old Dave (Hughes), Rhonda Cunningham and that great legal beagle Greg Kay. It was actually Greg that kind of instigated the idea. There's a few people sitting on the sidelines thinking about it...hopefully they can join in. If you would like to join this group of non-runners in this crazy idea then just let me know, more the merrier or misery likes company...your choice!

Reality is only an illusion that occurs due to a lack of alcohol!

Just thinking about the 100 km hike again, I'm trying to convince my brother Jim to join in the fun, even if it's just the final 40 km's...he's pondering it. My son Richard intends on joining me for the whole 100 km's...good, he can push me in the wheel chair!

On Thursday's blog I'll recap my 2010 goals and also I'll detail the inches lost so far.

Big Dave out!

2009-12-21T11:57:00.001-08:00

CHRISTMAS EVE!

Wow, Thursday, December 24th! It's hard to believe that the Sarge and I have been working at this project for 6 months! It's been quite the journey so far and we're still not done yet. I've been feeling so much better since I've lost the weight. It's all good. Also, the other benefit of this Challenge is meeting many new friends along the way, lot's of humour and support, which has made this so much easier. Actually, I think I have found the fountain of youth! It's very simple really, abuse your body for thirty years and then get into the gym and shed the pounds. I haven't felt this good in years! Mind you I don't recommend that you follow the same path i did!Not looking after yourself for thirty years,that takes a lot of commitment which not everyone can do. It also takes a professional, no amateurs!

I had another weigh-in this morning. The last one before I have my little splurge of everything rich and decadent! And the weight is.....259. I lost .5, oh well, I was hoping for better but I can no longer try and predict what the outcome each week will be...go with the flow. Where's the eggnog?

Went to boot camp last Tuesday night after having a few drinks with a couple of friends. Of course they had a few beers while I had a coffee and water...ho,ho, friggin ho! Anyways there were good lads and are very supportive...

Speaking of boot camp, CJ brought in a CD to be played during the work out as a dedication to me. Wow, I thought what a nice gesture! This group at Bodilogix has been very supportive. I asked the Sarge to pump up the volume..."Dancing Queen" by ABBA bellowed through out the gym! Oh the laughter...have I mentioned the cost of therapy has now surpassed my training costs?!

"And the Sarge, with her Sarge-feet ice cold in the gym, stood puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And she puzzled 'till her puzzler was sore. The Sarge thought of something she hadn't before. What if Christmas, she thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more". Borrowed from the Suess man.

Remember...red meat is not bad for you. Fuzzy green meat is bad for you.

The latest survey shows that three out of four people make up 75% of the population. Will wonders never cease!

I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy and prosperous New Years! A special thanks to the Sarge...without a doubt you saved my life. Thanks kid! Now I can spend more time on this side of the tera ferma harassing people...oops, i mean supporting people!

Big Dave out! Damn, I got chocolate on my keyboard.

2009-12-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Christmas is almost here!! I can already taste the shortbread cookies, salted cashews and chocolate covered peanuts! Heck, I almost forgot about the chips and dip. Well, that's breakfast taken care of!

So far so good, I haven't broken down my resolve yet to stay away from the goodies, but it's been awfully hard!

During the last boot camp I tried to get a little fancy. There's a move called the "whopper", basically you lay on the bench and lift your legs up in the air using your core muscles. With the "whopper" you can also add the "corkscrew", which is the same move but you add a twist with your hips when your legs are up in the air...clear as mud? Anyways, I've never added the corkscrew until Saturday...I almost twisted myself off the bench! Yup, I'm Mr. Graceful!

The sarge and I had an interview with Heather Goode from CHEX Television last Thursday. They wanted to do an update on our progress and again, hopefully some more pledges for the hospital.

I'll wish everyone a Merry Christmas when I blog on Thursday morning....then it will be PAR-TAY TIME!!
Nice comment from Robert Biron...thanks Big Bob. Still waiting for you to show up for boot camp though...wimp!

Big Dave out!

2009-12-15T09:57:00.000-08:00

Let's get this part over with, I weighed in this morning at.....259.5 pounds. I lost two pounds this week which brings the new total to 76.5! I breached the 75 pound milestone, finally. I'm very happy with that amount but I have to say with yesterday's hike in the woods i thought I would have lost a little more, but I'm not complaining.

Did you know that the traditional early English Christmas Dinner was the head of a pig prepared with mustard. Yummy!

There was a nice article in one of the local papers this week, Northumberland Today, talking about the No Cop Out Challenge. Hopefully that generates some more pledges for the hospital. It was quite the spread actually with a picture of me wearing a Santa hat...just keeping in the Christmas spirit. I just wished that Cecelia (reporter) had captured my good side...what am I thinking, I don't have a good side...yet!

Did you know that Santa Claus has to visit 42,466,666 homes in 12 hours on Christmas Eve. That's 983 homes per second! I wonder if he gets wind burn? Hopefully Air Miles!

On Tuesday I was able to hand over some more money to Rhonda Cunningham, Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation. Both the Lion's Club and Cameco donated money to the cause, thanks folks!

I'm still able to resist the Christmas goodies, but it's hard!!

Christmas trivia...if you received all the gifts in the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" you would receive 364 gifts!

Several of us went for a big hike yesterday in the Northumberland Forest. In the group of adventures were Mia Frankel from the County, John Russell, Doris Biron and the Sarge. I brought up the rear, literally! We trudged through almost 10 kilometres yesterday, from what i saw the woods were beautiful! Most of the time my head was down looking at the trail so I didn't trip over ice blocks, nook and crevices! We made it up to this one huge hill and admired the view for 10 seconds...I guess we were on a mission. Anyways the downward slope was very steep and icy, which can be treacherous walking. So John, mountain goat, Russell led the way down the cliff. he was followed by the sure footed and experienced hiker Mia, then the Sarge (muttering to herself about quad muscles). The next going down the cliff was Doris...what can I say, she skips in the parking lot during the winter months and now she utilized her butt muscles while going down the hill. She slipped and started to slide down the hill, it was liking watching the luge in the Olympics! The sarge had to jump out of the way! She stopped part way down, then she used the laminated map that Mia had given us and used it as a "magic carpet"! It really reminded me of Chevy Chase in the movie "Christmas Vacation"!

By the time the hike was done I was absolutely beat! Even though I've come a long way in my training and getting healthier, it made me realize I still have a long way to go! It was a good eye opener for me and not to be complacent in my training. I think the other four could have done another 10 kilometres but I was finished. My legs felt great, but for some reason my shoulders were killing me...don't know why. It was also an indicator that I need to work on my cardio even more.

Big Dave ...out!

2009-12-14T06:42:00.000-08:00

A miracle happened at Bodilogix on Saturday! I guess none of us should be surprised as this is actually the time for miracles being the Christmas Season. Having said that, i still couldn't believe what i was seeing...the Doc was actually skipping rope inside the gym and not in the parking lot! We were all so proud of her...like watching a toddler taking the first step, will wonders never cease! For you that may have forgotten, the Doc has a phobia about skipping in the gym, so this is one small step, or should i say one small skip for her. This is a story that you really needed to have been there to witness the excitement...good for you Dr. Kathy. I have to wonder though if she stayed inside because it was 20 below outside?!

The boot campers are starting to go crazy at Bodilogix! On Saturday some of the girls started to do the "towel dance" (Linda and Melissa) and then they wanted me to do it! The towel dance is taking the gym towel and sliding it across your butt and dancing. Now, the ladies looked great while doing this, i myself would look like a bear with an itchy butt! Also, I wouldn't want to have to do the laundry after I was done! To my dismay, the ladies talked the Sarge into creating a free style dance as a station for the next boot camp!! Will the torment never end?! Better stock up on the bleach...you know what I'm say'in...

So far I've been able to resist the many temptations out there with the goodies all over the place. I've been close to cheating a couple of times but I was able to close the door on it. It's going to be a hard month but hopefully I can stay focused.

Had a good work out this morning with the Sarge...doing a lot of personal bests with the weights, which is a great feeling!

Remember....Handle every stressful situation like a dog, pee on it and walk away!

Big Dave out!

2009-12-09T09:31:00.000-08:00

Good morning one and all. As you all know I was hoping to reach the 75 pound milestone this week. So...here's the latest news...I lost 1.5 pounds, meaning I fell short by .5 of a pound!! So that means my total weight loss (for the mathematically challenged) is 74.5 pounds. I'll get it next week, I hope!

It's Christmas time! It's already December 10th...my brother's birthday actually. Happy Birthday Jim! So far, I haven't indulged in any Christmas favourites, yet. The Sarge has allowed me 5 days to celebrate during the Season and I haven't used one yet. I'm definitely going to be using some of the days for the 24, 25 and 26th. I think those days are given. Even though I'm not a big New Years guy, I'll probably use one on that day as well. The last day of the 5 days I'll hold in reserve, you just never know when temptation might strike.

Why..."Why did Kamikaze pilots where helmets?"
and

Why do you have to put your two cents in...but it's only a penny for your thoughts? Where is the extra penny? I demand an audit!

The boot camps have been going well and are usually lots of fun...believe it or not! There's usually a lot of supportive bantering going on...at least that's what I like to refer to it as. I actually got injured last night...I was lying on the floor (on purpose) doing some sit up thingy's and then all of a sudden a ball hits me on the elbow. Oh the pain...fortunately my buddy Dave was there to assist me. He was waving a towel over me to keep me calm...he shouted out that it was a medical emergency. While in a great deal of pain, I was able to whisper... a pizza would cure it! The Sarge didn't buy it! We had to continue on with the work out...no pizza in sight.

Speaking of pizza, Dave Cunningham came up with a great idea! The last boot camp before Christmas we should have pizza after. The Sarge was not very supportive of the idea, Scrooge! We won't give up the fight, Dave and I are leading a rebellion of two.

We have another person who likes to skip outside...Doris Biron. I'm not sure what's going on with these two (Dr. Kathy) but they just like skipping out there. I really can't wait till a snow storm hits, that should make it entertaining.

Just did another interview with Northumberland Today and we should be doing an interview with CHEX Television next week. Hopefully some people will remember the No Cop out Challenge at Christmas time and make a much needed donation or pledge!

Finally...the statistics on sanity is that one out of every four persons are suffering from some sort of mental illness. Think of your three best friends--if they're okay, then it's you!

Big Dave out!

2009-12-04T07:04:00.000-08:00

Sorry, but I'm a day late in posting my blog! I did weigh in yesterday and I'm pleased with the results. I lost 2.5 pounds which now brings the total to 73 pounds! Hopefully by next Thursday I'll hit the big 75 and be three quarters of the way home!

I had some really good training sessions over the last week and of course the two boot camps have really helped...when I'm not laughing. I noticed the Sarge has posted a blog...finally! Sometimes I wish she wouldn't post a blog, I mean my shoelaces don't come undone that often! I also use the water break, the washroom break, the stitch in the back stroll, pretending to advise another camper routine. I'm more diversified then just one trick you know! I'm not a ...one trick pony! I amuse myself.

What..."what if there were no hypothetical questions?"

I have to go back to the Sarge's blog again...she called me a "Troll"! A Troll is defined as a mythical cave dweller...I feel the love people, I feel the love!

Here we are and it's only a few short weeks till Christmas. This will be the hardest part of my challenge without a doubt. I'm going to have stay really focused to get through this without totalling destroying what I've done so far. It will be one day at a time as the functions and fun has already started!

Have a good one!
Big Dave out!

2009-11-28T08:05:00.000-08:00

Another fun boot camp on Saturday! If you want a good work out then don't follow Doris Biron, but if you want a laugh a minute then by all means! I don't know what was going on, but Doris just couldn't stop laughing and she's the type of person that when she starts to laugh then it gets contagious! It is very hard to do push ups and laugh at the same time! Then, to make matters worse, she was doing the station out of order! On top of that she was making up her own exercises! Doris was free styling the boot camp! Poor Doris, she got on to the "wood chop" and the amount of weight she had on there couldn't be considered a wood chop...she was weed wacking! Can't wait till next Saturday!

Keeping on the topic of boot campers, Dr. Kathy did her skipping again...this time she took it outside into the parking lot. I think she actually picked up the mail, checked on her kids and came back. What is going to do when the snow starts?

I also have to announce a towel infraction at the last boot camp. I was towel whipped by Linda! I was the only guy there that morning so i think the ladies thought I was an easy target. I need a body guard!

Why...why does Superman stop bullets with his chest, but ducks when you throw a revolver at him?

Big Dave out!

2009-11-25T11:32:00.000-08:00

Thursday, another cold, dark, day in the city. It's...weigh-in time, the time of truth, joy or misery. I lost .5 of a pound, not a total goose egg, but close. I guess it's still moving in the right direction though.

On Wednesday I had another workout with the Sarge. I set some personal bests that day in some of the activities, rather proud of myself. One of the "bests" was on doing chin ups. The Sarge looked rather pleased and then made the following comment..."if you were on the moon you would be really good at those"...thanks for the support, Sarge!

short one today folks...sorry.

Big Dave...out!

2009-11-20T13:10:00.000-08:00

FIFTY BLOGS AND COUNTING:

Amazingly today is the 50th blog I've posted during my challenge; it's hard to believe! So far it's been a great ride with many ups and very few downs. I've also met some new friends along the way which is always rewarding in itself.

Last Thursday night the Sarge and I were invited to do a short presentation to the Lion's Club of Cobourg. What a great night, heck they even fed us! That being said I had to be on my best behaviour as the Sarge was right beside me monitoring my intake...she never let's up! Anyways, we were given the opportunity to speak about the NO COP OUT CHALLENGE and the raising of money for an ECG machine for the Northumberland Hills Hospital. The feedback that I got back was positive, apparently we did a good job and some pledges will be coming forward! Terrific! I can't close this section off without thanking the Lion's Club for all the charity events and good deeds they do in the community! Keep up the good work folks!

Went to another boot camp on Saturday morning, it's a good sweat! I was following behind Melissa and at one of the stations she wanted me to tell her my life story in 75 seconds! Sorry kid, that's just not possible...I lived a life that others can only dream of (I'm still laughing at that one). The next time around I asked about her life story...I fell asleep...ouch!

Also at the Saturday boot camp was Dr. Kathy. Always the professional and concerned about the safety of others, she made sure nobody was near her when she started to skip rope. I applaud her concern for her fellow participants! The whistle blows, which means to start, I expect Dr. Kathy to set a new record...nope, didn't even make one jump! She was trying to skip backwards and the rope stuck on her foot and got ripped out of her hands...truly a Kodak moment!According to her she needs to skip outside in the parking lot, she feels to confined in the gym, not the proper fung shei, so to speak. I hope she has a sense of humour, I can only imagine my next trip to Emerg and complaining of chest pain...then she asks me to bend over!!
Actually she's an expert boot camper, but don't tell her that!

Speaking of skipping rope I have to give credit to that old fart Dave Hughes. He was just a skipping fool on Saturday! He was setting a wicked pace, front and backwards. I betcha he's great at hop scotch as well!

Sunday morning was spent at Bodilogix trying to prepare the float for the Santa Claus Parade. Good thing Andre was there...he was a work horse and he definitely had a vision as to what the float should look like. Mind you, he always has visions!

Remember..."Life is like a jar of Jalapeno peppers.
What you do today, might burn your ass tomorrow!"

Big Dave ...out!

2009-11-19T06:38:00.000-08:00

IS THAT A COMBINE...NOPE, JUST KAREN SKIPPING ROPE!

Good morning everyone. I approached the scale this morning with a great deal of apprehension knowing that over the last two weeks I had only lost one pound in total. I also had in mind the terrific time I had celebrating my brother-in-law's, Mike, birthday on the weekend...it was a good time. I confessed to the Sarge by the way, I felt guilty. Her only reply was..."I guess you just want another zero, don't you?". So this was running through my mind at break neck speed as I walked up to the scale. I lifted my right foot and pulled away just an inch from stepping on the scale. I decided I better clip my toe nails! You never know! So, once that was done I made the long lonely walk back to the scales...my foot waivers over the flat metal surface...I start to sweat...I can't handle it anymore! I'm now on the scale, afraid to look at the damn thing. I finally looked....I lost 4 pounds! That brings the new total to 70 pounds! Of course I did my happy dance, good thing no cameras were around! I was very pleased with the results this week.

I'm reflecting back on the week that I just had and trying to determine how I got this result. Was it the large amounts of red wine that I consumed at Mike's...maybe. Red wine is supposed to be good for you. Or could it be the two boot camps I endured over the last week? I'll have to keep experimenting and find out the secret. I'll keep you posted.

Talking about boot camps...at the last one, we had 20 participants! That means for every participant there is a work out station! Man was that ever hard. Instead of the normal one hour duration, this lasted almost an hour and a half! To make things worse the very next morning I had the Sarge and we were working on legs...needless to say I was pretty sore by the time Wednesday afternoon came along...too bad there wasn't any red wine left!

Why...Why do they call it an asteroid when it's outside the hemisphere, but call it a hemorrhoid when it's in your butt?

Just reflecting back on the last boot camp and some of the close calls I had. It's actually quite dangerous in spots, for example...I was lying on the floor (couldn't breath) doing a leg exercise. Just behind me was Dave Cunningham doing the step ups with weights in his hands...he didn't look to sturdy, I think he went to Kelly's before the camp! I was waiting for him or one of the weights to land on my head! Of course if it hit my head I would be okay. The other danger was Karen and her skipping rope...she's the bionic woman of skipping rope! The worst part is she doesn't stay in one spot, she moves around...it felt like a combine was coming towards me! Of course this really affected my concentration and I had bad station...it's all their fault!

See you at the gym!
Big Dave out!

2009-11-18T08:12:00.000-08:00

Just a short blog today...because I'm an Elf! Get it?! Anyways just a heads up, the Cobourg Santa Claus Parade is on Sunday, November 22nd starting at 2 PM. The Sarge is looking for fellow Elf's or wannabe Elfs to partake in the festivities and job on the Bodilogix float. SO...if the Elf'n spirit is alive and well within you...come out and join us!

If you interested just call Andrea at Bodilogix...905-372-8400!

Big Elf Dave...signing off!

2009-11-13T06:57:00.000-08:00

I took out my recent frustrations (one pound loss) on the leg press. I finally convinced the Sarge to let me do 500 pounds on the leg press and it all went well. I did three sets of 15 reps. I need these little victories right now especially if there not showing up on the scale! I've also decided to do the step ups with the amount of weight I've lost. It will remind me of what I was and how much I've lost by having to carry it while going up the rack of 5 steps. So, I started off doing 30 pounds in each hand and when I finally lose the 70 then I will increase it to 35 and so on.

I've decided to join two Bootcamps each week but I'm probably going to stop going twice a day for awhile...change things up a little. Hopefully that might bring in a bigger number this week.

Do the Alphabet song and Twinkle, twinkle Little Star have the same tune?

You tried singing those two songs...didn't you!?

On Saturday I joined a few other adventurers at Bodilogix by doing a photo shoot for "look better naked"...the theme for the gym. I can't believe i participated in this event but it was a lot of fun. Having said that, not sure how the pictures are going to turn out! I might have to leave town! I'm expecting a call from Playgirl anytime now.

This morning I worked on my upper body...during the second round of doing chin ups my right arm gave out on me! So I'm hanging for dear life using my left arm and the Sarge is just looking at me dumbfounded. I'm trying to get my legs onto the stationary platform to get off the damn thing but of course I'm not very graceful and the Sarge is just saying..."you're not done yet"...obviously she has no sense when people are in distress! Once I recovered i told her what happened...she started calling me "Mr. Delicate" again! No respect!

Just another day in the gym.

Big Dave out!

2009-11-12T10:07:00.000-08:00

NOT IN MY HAPPY PLACE!

The dreaded day has arrived. As I sit here at my desk trying to prepare this blog I find myself in a sour mood. Don't think I'll be much fun today! I got on the scale and I only lost 1 lowly pound! I was hoping for a lot better than that especially after having zero last week and this week I attended a boot camp! Oh well, what it is...is what it is. The grand total is now 66 pounds. I was hoping to get 80 by Christmas but that no longer seems possible. This could be the start of a long plateau or still something left over from me going off my blood pressure medicine. My doctor had told me that when I go off the pills that it is possible to have excess fluid build up as the body is reacting to no longer having this stuff in my system. So...maybe that might be behind this, but that's only a maybe.

The boot camp...wow! I was feeling the pain the next day, that's for sure! Fortunately I got in with a good group of people and actually enjoyed it...in some weird way. The Sarge was in her element, whistle in hand throughout the evening. She just loves taunting people...eating chocolate while the rest of us were sweating it out! Special mention to my bud Dave Cunningham...the guy did the workout after just recovering from the flu! He still wasn't 100% but he still did it. That's far better than Big Bob (Robert Biron) who declined to join in on the action. Fortunately Doris, his wife, held up the family honour...way to go Doris! I should also mention Sheri...who harassed me throughout the boot camp. Between her and the Sarge I don't know who is worse!

Thought...If the professor on Gilligan's Island can make a radio out of a coconut, why can't he fix a hole in a boat???

Why...Why do Kamikaze pilots where helmets?

"May the Saints protect ye -
An' sorrow neglect ye -
An' bad luck to the one
That doesn't respect ye."

Big Dave out!

2009-11-06T07:23:00.000-08:00

A GOOD DAY:

I had a very exciting moment last Thursday in spite of the goose egg for the weigh-in. I saw my doctor and after being on blood pressure pills for as long as I can remember...I'm now off of them. I used to have to take three pills a day! Now, nada. I'm very happy about that and the fact that I got zero on the scales that morning means nothing to me right now. WOW! One of my next goals is to finally be able to get rid of my sleep apnea machine...that would be terrific! This has been truly a life changing experience for me...if I can do it, anyone can.

During my visit with my doctor we spoke about the 100 km Challenge next year. He was very interested in joining me on this leg of my journey...c'mon Dr. Emery, let's do it. Anyways, I might need you somewhere along that trail!

What disease did cured ham actually have??

The Sarge introduced me to another new exercise last Saturday...will it ever end! Anyways i digress, this one you have to put two small balls on the floor and then get into the push up position. Then you cross your left leg over your right, then raise your left arm over your head (with the ball) and turn sideways. You're now got your left arm straight up and your head is looking at the ceiling...so your whole weight is being supported by just the right arm. Did I mention I still weigh 271 pounds! I'm looking at her like she's nuts...she's used to that look. She simply said..."you never know when the circus might need you"...oh and then she laughed and she laughed. So...I tried it...it wasn't graceful but I did a couple of them just to try it out. This boot camp thing is going to be hard!!!! I'm sure somebody is going to bring a camera and put it on YouTube.

Remember..."May you have the hindsight to know where you've been.
The forsight to know where your going,
and the insight to know when you're going too far."

Big Dave...out!

2009-11-03T06:20:00.000-08:00

Here we go!

Could i get a drum roll please....the weigh-in this morning went like this....0 pounds, the big zero, nothing, nada! I was very disappointed because the workouts have been more intense and I followed my eating plan perfectly. What can you do but accept it and move on. Maybe this means I'll get a 5'er next week, you never know in the land of fat.

The Sarge has been introducing some new exercises to me over the last few weeks getting me used to how the boot camp will go. Some of the exercises are different from what I was doing before such as the push ups. I used to them on a bosu ball (buso, bosu...i really don't know or care) but that is not how they are done at the boot camp...of course not. So, last Saturday she stated we were going to do the push ups....she then said she was going to get the "cherries"! Alright, food!! I'm going to like this boot camp thing after all! Instead of going to the fridge she went over to the wall and got these two small rubber balls...not exactly edible. She placed them on the mat and I had to do the push ups on these things...God help me. Whatever happened to the good Ole Big Dave style of exercise...life was so much simpler then.

Why does a round pizza come in a square box??

One week from today I start my first (probably last) boot camp! It will no doubt be entertaining for the rest of the participants!

Remember..."We'll be friends until we are old and senile.
Then we'll be New friends!"

Big Dave signing off!

2009-10-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

NOTHING LIKE THE SUPPORT OF FRIENDS AND TRAINER:

Just another random observation about the Sarge...last week she asked me how tall I was? I told her I was 5'7". She then commented that must be with your shoes on! Now isn't that nice, really supportive trainer! All this time i thought she was supposed to be....wait for it...an "athletic support"....oh the laughter! Where do i come up with this stuff?!

Not sure if I mentioned this before, I've progressed to now doing "dips" on the machine. Good work out for the chest. Anyways the Sarge said i should be good at this...finally a compliment was coming! I asked her why? She said because i was a dip...she slapped her knee and started laughing. How may times have i mentioned about going to therapy in this blog?!

Here's a pearl for you..
." There are many good reasons for drinking.One has just entered my head -
If a man doesn't drink when he's living,
How the Hell can he drink when he's dead?"

Can't argue with that logic.

On Saturday I had a another training day with the Sarge. She introduced me to a new exercise, you lay flat on your back on a bench. You then raise your legs and bend them to make a table. Then you put a ball over your head and then bring it forward and place the ball on the "table" and back and forth. First of all I knew this was going to be a problem when I have to start building furniture with body parts! Is this a gym or Ikea?! I also couldn't get the ball to stay on the "table" all the time so it would roll down my legs at a high rate of speed almost breaking my nose. The Sarge said she was going to get me a goalie mask...how sweet. I survived the exercise, that's all I' m going to say about it.

Suffered another injury this past week...I blew out a butt muscle. That's right, my left cheek feels like one big bruise! I think it happened during the one legged press, but I'm not positive. The Sarge will monitor the situation...that means she's watching my butt!

I attended a Halloween Dance on Saturday that was being hosted by "The Classics ", they're great band playing a lot of classic rock songs. Anyways I was very proud of myself, bowls of chips were in abundance and goodies on the table and not to mention the beer that everyone was drinking. I stuck to water and I also had some almonds that I had put in my pocket for emergencies. Getting back to the band for a minute....they ran a 50/50 draw and the proceeds went to the Northumberland Services for Women...$50 for the cause! Way to go guys!

Question....Can you cry under water?

Big Dave...Peace out!

2009-10-27T12:26:00.001-07:00

THE SARGE TAKES ONE FOR THE TEAM:

The time has sure flowin by on this journey. Already we are just over four months and 41 blogs later...who would have thought! As we all now know, Thursday is always the day I report on my weight loss, so here it goes..........I lost 2 pounds. The new grand total is 65 pounds lost.

The Sarge had put out an e-mail to the members of Bodilogix and I noticed one address had a funny run on words. I thought this could be another good name for Bodilogix! It was the House of Fatitudes! Brilliant! I know, simple things amuse simple minds.

The Sarge started me on the bench press the other day, so in typical Sarge style she had to demonstrate the move to me....while getting into position she bonked her head on the bar! It sounded like a coconut hitting metal, I even felt the pain! The Sarge didn't even flinch...she's a machine! I asked her if that was part of the exercise? She didn't look impressed. I think I should buy her a hockey helmet.

While the Sarge was out getting some supplies for the gym the phone rang. I could hear it form the shower but obviously I couldn't get to it without causing alarm to women in children! It kept ringing and then it started into a very annoying busy signal. So when the Sarge came back I explained the phone problem to her. She just simply said..."when the phone rings just answer it"...well thanks for the clue Sherlock!

I've signed up to join a "Boot camp" that the Sarge runs at the gym. The one I'm going to will be every Tuesday night starting November 10th and leading into the Christmas Season. I thought this time of the year would be especially hard so I thought this would help. I also have some support from Dave Cunningham who is going to join the same Boot camp...us guys need to stick together...the Brotherhood! There is a rumour that Big Bob from the hospital might be making an appearance at this time slot as well...hope so...the more to share the pain the better. The Sarge is already looking forward to this...she was stunned that I was going to do this as the routines are very energetic to say the least. God hates a coward so I'm going into the breach and hopefully I come out at the other end. Not sure what will be worse, the exercise or all the women having a good laugh it me!?

We had a meeting last Tuesday of the very small organizing committee for the Butterball Run. It appears that the name will be changed as this is definitely not a "run", it's a walk, sometimes a crawl. If you're interested in being a participant in the Challenge or wish to volunteer for this event then please let me know! You're help will be greatly appreciated and hopefully more funds can be raised for Northumberland Hills Hospital. One of the committee, Doris Biron, came up with a great turn on words. Instead of "just for the hell of it" she came up with "just for the health of it"...I think that should be on a t-shirt! Sadly, that's all we got accomplished that day at the meeting...the Sarge, Rhonda and Doris were just having too much fun. I had to rein them in a few times...lay down the law!

I think the Sarge is relishing the thought of me joining a boot camp class...she introduced me to an exercise I haven't done in decades...chin ups! What a treat, once my shoulders were put back into place it was all good. I use to wear 35" sleeves...I now need 40's!

Here's a very warming and heart felt saying..." May your troubles be as few and as far apart as my Grandmothers teeth"....leave it to the Irish.

Big Dave signing off!

2009-10-26T09:54:00.001-07:00

YABA DABBA DOO!

I had a chance to read some of the recent comments...everybody wants to be a comedian! Heck, even one of my own nephews is trying to slag me! Thank God I put Bryan's name on the Family Tree in pencil! I always had my suspicion's about that lad!

Did you hear on the news today, the Energizer Bunny was arrested...for Battery!

As I have stated in the past I usually take Sunday's off from doing any exercise/work-outs. The odd occasion I have done some hiking like last Sunday, but this Sunday I went down a road less travelled. Actually it wasn't a road, it was a lane...a bowling lane! One of my friends had an idea to get a group together and go bowling...next thing you know I'll be joining the Elk Lodge as well! Anyways a bunch of us attended the local bowling alley had a great time...i think I now have bowler shoulder! I worked through the pain though. Before anyone else announces the scores I have to admit I was the worst. What can I say, I can't be great at everything I do. It was a relaxing afternoon but at the same time not sitting on the couch watching TV.

Did you know the first Gold Record ever awarded was to Perry Como in 1958. It was for "Catch a Falling Star". I think everyone slept through that one! Mind you I think Dave Hughes knows all the words.

The Sarge had me working on my upper body last Saturday, without a doubt that was my toughest routine to date. She usually has some easier exercises mixed in with some tough ones, not this time! Man, was I ever sore for the rest of the weekend. She was smiling throughout the whole program...I don't think I can take her...yet!

Always remember you're unique...just like everyone else (Uh)!

Big Dave signing off!

2009-10-22T07:35:00.000-07:00

STAYING THE COURSE:

Today is the dreaded Thursday. I look at Thursday's as being very unnerving because I just don't know what to expect. I always reflect back on the week to analyze what i did such as work -outs and what i consumed. Even though I know I had a good week that still doesn't matter to that damn, friggin, red eye, digital, unforgiving machine! So, on the scales I go...I lost 5 more pounds! That brings the current total to 63 pounds and counting. I seem to be back on a roll for some strange reason...I really thought the 5's were well behind me especially after having that amazing week last week. I'm not complaining though!

A reminder about the Butterball Run (100 km hike) next year. A change of plans has taken place, we will no longer be walking through the night, it was thought that this was too risky especially with people needing to go back to work on the Monday...work always gets in the way. So the game plan will be to break up the hike on the Saturday and Sunday...it will still be a challenge, believe me. Further information will be coming out in the near future after a planning committee has a chance to meet and look at the logistics for this event. It will be challenging but I promise you it will be a lot of fun as well so keep it in mind for next year!

If you haven't had the chance to make a pledge or a donation yet...please consider doing so. The Northumberland Hill's Hospital is a very important institution and it needs our support, so please, if you can, make a pledge.

thanks.
Big Dave...out!

2009-10-19T06:15:00.000-07:00

A HIKING WE SHALL GO:

Good morning folks, hope everyone had a good weekend and was able to get outside and enjoy the crisp but sunny weather. I decided to go for a hike on Sunday; trying to do a little training for the Butterball Run next year. So I mapped out a route that started from my house and took me down some country roads with lots and lots of hills. The total distance was 15 kms which I completed in just under 3 hours. I felt pretty good doing it, far better than I thought I would! When i was on my hike I reflected back to when I first started the Challenge and how difficult it was to complete 1 km with the Sarge encouraging me (yelling at me). That was only four short months ago, what a difference! Thanks Sarge, couldn't have done it without you!

I told Dave Hughes about the hike this morning, he said that explains the polar bear sighting that was reported to the radio station! I'm going back to therapy.

Speaking of the Butterball Run it appears that we have a new helper...Doris Biron. Thanks Doris! Appreciate all the help we can get! I'll let you know when the next meeting will take place and hopefully it will fit into your schedule.

Some of the ladies at Bodilogix were commenting that I should start wearing spandex now... uh, no...not going to happen! Until they come out with Mandex there is no way! I really don't think men look good in spandex, might as well put on a tutu. Men should be in sweats and or gym shorts...that's it.

Had my workout with the Sarge this morning and she tried out some new exercises for me to do...yup, that usually means pain! It shouldn't be called Bodilogix, it should be called the "House of Pain"...that certainly fits better. She brought over these two "things", that's gym techy talk. I actually thought she was being nice, that they were supposed to help me lower to the ground and help me get up again...what was I thinking! I had to lay on the ground and then reach up to these two things and pull myself up using my back muscles...up and down, up and down. That was exhausting and when I thought I was done she told me to stay where I was and brought over the two Buso balls and I had to do push ups right after! At one point I said "Holy Lord", she thought i said "holy lard"...and started laughing. Then she started making more jokes about it, like "lardy, lardy, lardy and just killing herself laughing! The Sarge only laughs at her own jokes and expects you to laugh at the same time...double the pain.

May you be a half an hour in Heaven before the Devil knows your dead!

Big Dave signing off!

2009-10-15T08:21:00.000-07:00

BACK AT IT!

The weigh-in after the turkey day. As you know I weighed-in on Monday, just to see what the damage was and I had gained four pounds. So that morning I got right back into the workouts and back into my routine. This morning I not only lost the four but i lost an additional three pounds on top of that! That brings the new total to 58 pounds...it's all good.

Since Monday I have been doing two a day workouts, that was my penance you might say. Spent a lot of time on the cardio and it appears that it paid off. I think I have to get some new clothes again in the very near future...i just got some, but already their getting a little baggy.

I saw this quote from George W Bush and I thought I could relate to it..."In my sentences i go where no man has gone before". Thought that was rather true and funny at the same time.

My next big challenge will be Christmas...I think I'll have to refrain myself from celebrating for a whole month and reduce it to maybe 4 or 5 days. That will be hard!! I love short bread cookies and Christmas cake, love it, love it, love it!! That will be the hardest time of the year for me so I've set a new goal to have 80 pounds shed by then; that way I'll have some room to grow in the Christmas spirit...if you follow my drift.

I don't know what's happening at Bodilogix these days? For some reason people just keep on picking on me! I don't understand it, when other members come in I'm always very supportive and giving...I never harass anyone. I just wanted to clear the air on that one. People don't realize how very shy and sensitive I am...as I sit here, wiping the tears away, the screen is just a misty haze, I feel so abused.

Does anyone feel guilty yet?!

Remember..." Wisdom is knowing what to do next; Skill is knowing how to do it and Virtue is doing it." David Starr Jordan

Big sensitive Dave signing off!

2009-10-13T06:33:00.000-07:00

GOBBLE, GOBBLE:

The turkey is dead and gone, and life returns to my new normal. I had a great weekend, too good i think. On Saturday we hosted the family Thanksgiving dinner, approximately 20 people came over to partake in the feast and have a few drinks. I made the dinner, which was turkey, stuffing, carrots, corn, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, gravy and perogies with sour cream. It was a feast! For desert we had pumpkin and blueberry pie. I have to confess, I really didn't have much of the dinner..by the time it was being served I had already consumed to much of the Grey Goose!! I was in a happy place all evening, apparently I made some great speeches as well! i might have suffered some dain bramage. At least everyone else enjoyed the dinner. Having said that i still over indulged for a few days that weekend and so Monday morning I got on the scales to see what the damage was; I gained 4 pounds. Oh well, I was back in the gym yesterday and getting back into the game again.

I hope everyone took the time to enjoy the weekend and also reflect on what they should be thankful for. Over the last little while I have been told that I have been an inspiration to a few people to start their own weight loss journey which is terrific! But I have to tell you about a dear friend of mine, one of my best friends on the planet ( I have friends on various planets), who is truly an inspiration! I won't name him so as to protect his privacy, but this man has fought cancer for the last 18 months and is winning. He just got told that he has only one kidney functioning and that is at only 30% and other ailments that I won't list. He has been told that his latest problems are caused from the chemo and radiation treatment. This guy is unstoppable, he only looks at the positive of things and circumstances...everything that he has gone through and is still going through does not deter him on how he lives his life! I know he took the time this weekend to reflect on what to be thankful for. I'm thankful that I know him and call him my friend because he is truly an inspiration!

Big Dave signing off.

2009-10-08T07:16:00.000-07:00

IT'S TURKEY TIME! (i don't mean Dave Hughes)

Thursday morning has arrived with the ritual weigh-in...I lost 1.5 pounds this week which brings the total to 55 so far. I was a little disappointed in the number as I had worked out usually twice a day. Having said that though I'm also relieved that it wasn't another zero! I was afraid I was going to enter into a long drawn out plateau, but so far I've been able to avoid that.

Dave Long and I had a meeting last Tuesday regarding the 100 km hike, I think we have a new name for it, the "Butterball Run" as opposed to the Cannonball Run. I like that name, brings back memories of Butterball Park. Anyways, Dave is working on a route, basically we will be walking from Bodilogix to Northumberland Forest which is approx. 32 kms. We then hike through the woods (tigers, lions and bears, oh my) for another 40 kms and then we trek back to Cobourg and we end up at (as opposed to in) Northumberland Hills Hospital. Hopefully none of us will have to try the new ECG machine! I've had some people willing to join the Sarge and I in this challenge which is terrific! The proposed date is June 26 to the 27th, 2010. So if your interested in completing the challenge or wish to help volunteer with water and stuff then let Dave Long, Andrea or myself know. We've obtained preliminary approval from the good folks at the County to use the woods but a further meeting needs to take place with more details being introduced.

Does anybody know what the speed of dark is???

Had a protein shake breakfast with a couple of lads earlier this week, Greg Kay and Robert Biron (the boss of bosses, Godfather of the hypodermic and surgical masks). Always a good way to start off a day with good guys and good conversation...I just wish we had beer!! I'm going to try and convince these guys to join me in the Butterball Run.

I asked the Sarge whether or not I could have Caesars during Thanksgiving? Her reply was very straight forward..."one, enjoy". Well let the celebrations begin! Party on dude! Watch out Cobourg a madman will be on the loose! OMG, one drink! I use that for mouth wash! This is going to be a long weekend and not in the good sense either. I know if i totally blow it I'll have to answer to the grim reaper, oops I mean the Sarge! I'll take the weekend a day at a time.

I hope everyone has a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Remember...Be careful about the light at the end of the tunnel...it might be a train!

Big Dave signing off.

2009-10-05T09:07:00.000-07:00

MUSIC IS IN MY SOUL:

Monday is here which means Thursday is just around the corner. Hopefully I'll have a better weigh-in this time especially with Thanksgiving on the horizon. Even though i warned the Sarge a few months ago about Thanksgiving she is still on my case about it! She's trying to convince me not to drink at all, but if I have too, then switch to vodka instead of beer as it's much cleaner. I asked what could I put in the vodka...the answer was nothing! Yuck! Apparently it goes down smoother if I put it in the freezer before drinking it (wise advise from Chris Littlechild).

Speaking of drinking i wish to quote another wise person by the name of Benjamin Franklin; "In wine there is wisdom, in beer there is freedom, in water there is bacteria". May I point out no mention of vodka!

In a number of carefully controlled trials, scientists have demonstrated that if we drink 1 litre of water each day, at the end of the year we would have absorbed more than 1 kilo of poop! However, we do not run that risk with alcohol because it has to go through a purification process of boiling, filtering and or fermenting.
Remember:
water = poop
wine = health
Therefore it is better to drink wine and talk stupid, than to drink water and be full of sh!t.

Last Saturday I had another fun morning with the Sarge; she was still being brutal about the four beers I had. At one point she wanted me to do something and I think I said "no". She looked at me and said " I didn't hear you say NO to me did I? There is no way you said NO to your trainer, did you?" I looked at her straight in the eye and said "no ma'am". My courage had been ripped from me and I even sounded like Mickey Mouse! Oh the shame!

During that particular workout I did a move on one of the benches that works on my core. I had to lay on my back and lift my legs and butt up into the air. After doing this several times I started to feel some stomach commotion... let's say. I was wary of it, but I kept on with the exercise. The pressure continued to build until the proverbial damn broke...I let lose with a loud, but harmonious fart. Unfortunately the fart wasn't just one, it was a farti, as in many! It actually sounded like the song "It's a Wonderful World"(where's a tape recorder when you need one). I could have "cut" a record...I kill myself. I was so proud of myself until I looked over and saw a man standing there! He was so polite, he acted like he didn't hear anything and walked over to another piece of equipment, but I think he started to whistle...the power of music people, the power of music.

I wish to thank a couple of friends of mine, Garry Gordon and Jan Menzies. They bought me a card with Rocky Balboa on the cover for making it halfway. It also played the music from Rocky...cool. Thanks folks!

Remember...The man who sneezes without a hanky takes matters into his own hands!

Big Dave...out!

2009-10-01T09:51:00.000-07:00

AND NOW, APPEARING ON OUR STAGE...ANDREA AND DAVE!
(you have to read this with Ed Sullivan in mind to get the full effect)

No sense in delaying the news...I got the big goose egg this morning! I'm sure there are several possibilities why it happened, one of them being consuming a little too much over the weekend with the Wedding and all the other festivities that surround such an event. Also, I've had fifteen weeks of weight loss in a row. In reality that's pretty good, but it's still disappointing. So the weight remains the same at 53.5 pounds lost. I dealt with the news by just continuing along with my workout routine and will just keep plugging away...I will beat this thing.

Last night COGECO aired our interview on Municipal Matters; heck I think we did okay for a bunch of amateurs. Of course the Sarge hogged the show, what a drama queen! Also, without our knowledge Rhonda Cunningham had taped an earlier segment that went along with our piece. Of course Rhonda being the consummate professional brought her own props...the ECG machine. So there she was in her Gucci business suit looking like Vanna White and pointing at the machine and speaking so eloquently...whatever. The Sarge and I are down in the trenches with the everyday people, just sweating out life's problems and concerns...we spoke from the soul. We've travelled the road of despair and misery, not the road of light and sunshine like Vanna (Rhonda). We've kept ourselves grounded and don't aspire to be among the elite...what I'm trying to say is that I'm pissed that we didn't bring our own props! Watch out Rhonda we're coming prepared with props and power point for the next interview!

Did you know that Wilma Flintstones maiden name was "Shaghoople"? Did you really care?

Just going back to the COGECO interview/show, I have to say the Producer, Mark Rockburn and the Host, Dave Glover did a masterful job...thanks guys! Also, COGECO is donating a $1 a pound for the first 100 and $2 a pound for any loss after that! That was terrific news! The Sarge and I had a great time and hopefully we can do a follow up near Christmas.

During the interview the Sarge kept on referring to me as David...she has never called me David! What the heck was she on that day?! She normally refers to me as "hey you" or "lard butt" but never "David"! On a good day she just nods at me. I think the camera's were on and all of a sudden she thought she was Oprah or somebody...miss prim and proper. She could have one an Oscar for the performance! She also came out with some pretty profound statements, like this one..."a orange is not an apple". All I can say is wow! It took me a minute for me to really grasp what she was saying but I finally got it! It's like saying a "coconut is not a pineapple"...I feel so enlightened. How much do I pay her again?

The first workout after my confession to having a few beers on the weekend turned out to be brutal! She took out her anger on me...I did so many leg presses my legs felt like wet noodles! She even told me that was for having the beers. She then asked if I learned something from this experience? I said yes...to lie!

Big Dave signing off.

2009-09-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

A CHALLENGING WEEKEND:

Well, i survived the weekend, but barely. Hopefully I'll be able to fix the damage I've done by Thursday's weigh-in! This past weekend we attended a Rehearsal Dinner and a Wedding Reception for the newly married couple...Kyle and Amy Curtis. They make a great couple and I know they have the love and support of their families and friends! It was a terrific time. Anyways, I think i had a little too much off the "NO" side of the menu. I confess, I had a total of four beers over the weekend, but they were lite beers! That should count for something...I hope! I also had a little too much on my dinner plate at the wedding, having a couple of beers does that to me. This morning I was up bright and early and did my workout with the Sarge, back on track.

The Sarge introduced a new variation to my push ups this morning. Remember I'm now doing my push ups on a "Bosu ball", I now have my feet balanced on a bosu ball as well. It was a little more challenging for me but I was still able to get it done. It's all about winning the little challenges, even if you don't succeed at first.
Speaking of Bosu balls, the Sarge had to correct my spelling last week. I said Buso instead of Bosu...well whoop-tee-do! You say bosu, i say buso, you say TO-mato I say to-Mato, you say Po-tato and I say po-TAto...you know what I'm say'in.

A couple of reminders, the Sarge and I are on Municipal Matters this Wednesday night on COGECO. Also, keep in mind the 100 km challenge next year...we're hoping for a good turn out and it should be a lot of fun. I promise, nobody will be left behind! I told the Sarge that I really want to make this a challenge, if you have ever watched the "Eco Challenge" on TV then you'll know what I mean. I don't want to take nights off and do this in increments, let's do this right and get it done. But, we will go as slow as our slowest member ( probably me)...it's about challenging ourselves but also sharing in the challenge with other folks, teamwork.

Last week "Producer Mark" from COGECO was in filming one of my workout days. For some reason the gym was rather shy of it's usual members in the "Breakfast Club"...WIMPS! I can only imagine how it's going to look, sometimes the camera felt like it was right in my face. Geez with all the camera's recently I'm starting to feel like Brad Pitt...okay I'm a little shorter, a little fatter, a little older. Alright, I'm sure John Candy felt this way too!

Did you know that a cubic mile of ordinary fog (as opposed to extraordinary fog?!) contains less then a gallon of water? Now you know.

Big Dave signing off!

2009-09-24T06:25:00.000-07:00

I CAN SEE THE LIGHT!:

Today is Thursday...I had a hard time sleeping last night thinking about the 50 mark, did I break it or not? The 50 pound mark is the second biggest milestone in my Challenge. So i got on the scale and I had dropped another 5.5 pounds! This now brings the total to 53.5 pounds in three months. Needless to say I did a little happy dance...i probably have to replace a few floor tiles but it was worth it! Only 46.5 pounds left to go, I'm astounded.

On the weekend Rosie and I helped out with the Bodilogix booth for Ladies Night at Canadian Tire. A lady that I have known for years and her adult daughter were walking by the booth and of course I had to harass them, but in a very supportive fashion of course. They both looked at each other and they couldn't figure out who I was! Then they saw Rosie and put everything together, now that was funny! It was a good feeling having confirmation of how much I've changed.

Yesterday i had to go to Toronto to get my uniform altered because of my weight loss. The tailor (Joe) couldn't believe the difference. He said I was at the max for being able to do an alteration, the next time it will have to be a whole new uniform. Again a good feeling. I have to relay a story to you about this uniform that I got altered, it is actually a "Dress Uniform" very spiffy. About three years ago the Chief and I attended a funeral in Ottawa for another police officer. Of course we had to wear our "Dress Uniforms". Anyways we get out of the car beside the Church and we were getting our jackets on which also come with a waist belt that fits on the outside of the jacket. That day I almost became Chief...as i was getting my belt done up, which took all the strength I had, I could feel the enormous tension and strain on the belt to keep my luggage intact. We were just about to walk across the street, I'm turning blue because I can't breath, and my belt buckle sprung like a ballistic missile through the air almost striking the Chief! If that thing had hit him in the forehead he would have been a goner!! Fortunately it missed him but it took us almost 15 minutes to find it! Needless to say I didn't try to put the belt back on...that was a decision that probably saved a few life's that day!

It's amazing what you see at Bodilogix these days...Dave the Dragon Slayer is now the Birdman of Bodilogix. The Sarge's husband, Dave, had to catch a bird that was in the gym, very entertaining indeed. I have to give the guy credit though, he caught it with a plastic bag which he turned into a net and placed it on the end of a pole. After about 30 minutes he was able to catch the little guy without any harm to it and was able to set it free. It was like watching an episode of "Wild Kingdom", of course they caught Lions and Rhinos but why bust Dave's bubble.

Did you know that the average elephant produces (nice word for it) 50lbs of dung (nice word for it) a day! In the words of a famous super hero..."holy bat shit, Batman!" "To the scoopmobile Robin!"

Anyways I got to go...Big Dave signing off!

2009-09-21T08:54:00.000-07:00

LONG LIVE THE...BUTT:

Another Monday is here and we "inch" closer to Thursday....did you get it??!! As I sit here "pounding" away at my computer (har, har, har) I have to reflect on what has happened over the last three months. It's been quiet the journey with it's ups and downs, highs and lows, peaks and valleys you might say (okay...I'm just going for the word count on this one). The Sarge and I started off on doing just a simple walk then doing some basic moves in Butterball Park and then we moved indoors to the gym. The Sarge has taken me a long way from where I started...it is really amazing me to think about it! I've been introduced to new exercises and to old ones. Some of the old ones I have learned I was doing them wrong in the first place so i wasn't getting the full benefit of them. I highly recommend, that everyone no matter there fitness level invest in a personal trainer...believe me it will pay off dividends. It doesn't mean that you have to have one every day but even to check in with one once in awhile to make sure you're on the right track. You take your car to a mechanic so why not your body?!

During the weekend I went for another hike in the Northumberland Forest...this time Rosie came with me. I checked out the "Red Trail" and it was actually very good, not as much poison ivy and it was only 2.5 km in length. The trail had some nice hills and views and i would recommend that one if anyone was thinking of going out there. Amazingly I didn't get lost...of course Andrea and Dave weren't there; coincidence...I think not! Rosie did very well considering some of her limitations and wants to do that again.

I told the Sarge this morning about the hike. She asked why I didn't tell her, she would have gone. Do I really have to answer that one....really? Alright, I didn't have enough time to get supplies for a week and get pack mules...okay.

This morning the Sarge introduced me to a new exercise...yuck! I had to lay on the floor with one foot on a step, then I had to raise my butt off the floor while my other leg was suspended in mid air. Not only is that a painful visual but it was a painful exercise! My hamstrings were killing me...I'm going to have leg cramps for the next four hours! The first time I winced in pain the Sarge asked me..."you know what that means?" I said yes, I'm done. She said nope, that means your hamstrings need work so that means more reps! I should have learned this by now...hide the pain...she just likes that way too much!

We also did the step ups today but my right leg was giving me a bit of a problem. So the Sarge wanted to play a game. Every time I stepped up i had to come up with a different name for the butt! She said I was using my knee instead of my butt and that's why it was hurting. So off we go rhyming them off...butt, ass, backside, junk in the trunk and so on. Unfortunately young Kate was only one machine away and had to listen to this scientific experimentation on verbalizing, thus focusing, on a specific part of the anatomy...that being the booty. Young Kate didn't stay too long after that...I wonder why?

Did you know that the clinical term for hairy buttocks is "daysypgal"? So, If someone comes up to you and says they just been to the doc for a bad case of daysypgal now you know. You could be a good friend and offer them razor or some Neat...that's just being friendly that's all.

Last Saturday morning during my workout, the Sarge had asked a photographer (Angie) to come in and take some shots. I was told that Angie was going to take some shots of the gym and would get a few shots of me for the Challenge. Again I was lied to! Angie followed me around the whole time...she was a paparazzi!! She was taking shots from so many different angles that now I'm worried! I'm sure they'll sell well on the Internet. I told Angie that I better have final approval, she assured me I would...while laughing. Some how I think not...that was more of an evil laugh. I know this is going to turn into another embarrassing moment for Big Dave!

Big Dave...out!

2009-09-18T09:04:00.000-07:00

WE ALL LIVE IN A YELLOW SUBMARINE:

Hello folks...sorry for not posting a blog yesterday (Thursday) as I was very busy. Anyways I weighed in and lost another 4 pounds! Another great week; the total is now 48 pounds! I'm almost half way to my goal...incredible! I want to stress I'm not starving myself, I'm eating 5 times a day but just eating properly and also the work outs have really jumped started the weight loss. The Sarge has me on a very balanced plan and it's working.

A couple of days ago I was back on the leg press. I was lifting the 340 pounds and feeling good. I did 25 reps and the Sarge came over and asked how I was doing. I said great and asked her to put some more weight on. She said she wanted to see my form first (LIAR). I said okay and started doing the press again. I figured she would only want to see maybe 5 or 6 examples and then we could bump up the weight...nope! I did another 25 at the full weight and then she did the strip down thing again! By the time it ended the weight felt like it was a 1,000 pounds! Heck I'm now 3" inches shorter! Considering I was already vertically challenged that's not good.

On the same day of my shrinkage I was introduced to the "buso ball"...it sounds like an order of Chinese food. Could i get an order of buso balls and fried rice please? Anyways, I'm now doing my push ups on this damn thing...interesting to say the least!

talking about interesting...I'm now doing the step ups with a 10 pound weight and doing 5 steps at a time. Pretty good for a short guy I think. When I do this manoeuvre everyone in the gym has to give me a wide berth as I have no control over my balance...it's a disaster waiting to happen. My legs and arms go everywhere just trying to keep my balance...I'm like a puppet and the puppeteer is high on cocaine!

Did you know that an average woman speaks 7,000 words per day, where as men speak just over 2000! I think we all knew that one!

Did you know that pain travels faster than 3000 feet per second...the Sarge moves quicker than that!

Cobourg hosts an annual Dragon Boat Race in support of the United Way every September. This year the Bodilogix Gym want to put in a team. I don't know how this happened but I was sent the same invite as other members! Okay...nothing good is going to happen if i get into one of those boats! If I'm in the back then we'll look like a speed boat with the front going vertical across the lake. If I'm in the front then we instantly become a submarine! So...I'll be on the shore....safe and dry!

Glad to see my cousin Nancy is getting into the comedy act with her comments on my blog the other day!

Big Dave signing off!

2009-09-14T07:13:00.000-07:00

A FROLIC IN THE WOODS!

Yesterday the Sarge,her family and i went on a 2 km hike through the Ganaraska Forest in a warm up for the big 100 km trek next year. I like to start off by saying that both the Sarge and her husband Dave had convinced me that they knew the trails before leaving the safety of the parking lot...yeah right. So, off we go, all in great spirits ready for this little hike in the woods and the weather couldn't have been nicer. So the leader of this band of adventurer's was little Henry, 4 years old and full of energy. It was his job to keep on looking for the "orange" arrows as that was the trail we were going on...remember the 2 km one. Henry was doing a terrific job and we didn't get lost once. The further we went along the Orange trail the more narrower the path and the more plentiful the Poison Ivy! Heck these weren't normal Poison Ivy, these were PI on steroids! The damn things were more like trees then plants and they were everywhere! Hubby Dave, being the wise one, wanted to turn back, but the Sarge wanted to push on as she thought the path was clearing up ahead. I myself was still in my happy space just following along. We kept following the Orange Trail and the damn thing never widened...smooth move Sarge! So, now we have to back track through all the PI again (I'm starting to itch just thinking about it). Of course all of us were in shorts except for the Sarge...I wonder if she planned it this way? Anyways, we finally make it make back to the main trail and continue with out journey now on the Blue Trail. It definitely was much wider and more hiking friendly. I don't know how this happened, but somewhere along the way we went on the Green Trail...meaning my experienced guides had know idea where we were. So now we are into km number 3 in our 2 km walk. I'm starting to feel a little uncomfortable about this...the group is starting to lose it's team spirit, but we press on. As we approach the 4th km of our 2 km hike I see vultures flying overhead. We start looking for little puddles of water to quench our thirst. The Sarge says she can make tea out of cedar bark...yeah right, i thought she could lead us on a 2 km walk as well! I started to think that this was turning into a bad movie...it's never the perfect family that gets killed in the movies, it's the short fat guy that is always expendable! Hubby Dave has now asked me to take up the back position...that's where they always get killed! I was waiting for a 200 pound wild turkey to attack me...I forgot, Dave Hughes wasn't with us. I digress, as we continued on our journey I started to realize how the Israelites must have felt being led by Moses and traversing for forty years through the wilderness to find the Promised Land...our Promised Land was the parking lot.

As we approached the 4.5 km mark...did I happen to mentions this was supposed to be a 2 km hike? Anyways, like I said we are now at 4.5 km and i noticed a wolf pack in the woods...they were trying to figure out who was the most vulnerable to cut out from our herd. I figure this is wear the fat guy gets it! But the survival instinct kicked in...you know what, I think i could out run little Emmy who is all of 18 months! It was a matter of survival people! Some how I need to get her off of Hubby Dave's back. At the 5 km mark I was thinking that we actually might find Dr. Livingston! I was also wondering where all our porters were to carry our supplies?! This is no longer a hike, it's a bloody expedition! As I was starting to put a survival plan in place, all of a sudden we found the road! Safety! Mind you, we now had to follow the road back to our original starting point, that being the parking lot. So after travelling 5 km in our 2 km hike, we made it back to our vehicles. I was never so happy to see my crappy Cavalier in my life!

It was so much fun, especially playing the little games while on the trail. The one game that was very popular was telling me to look at something in the woods and then turning around and everyone was gone! They did that several times...oh the laughter. Also Hubby Dave asking me to pick up the beautiful three leaf plant (PI) along the path...he couldn't do it himself as he had Emmy on his back...oh the laughter, almost bust a gut on that one.

It was quite the adventure...and this is supposed to be a warm up for the 100 km hike! If this is an example of what I'm in store for next year, it's going to turn into a 200 km hike and that's if we make it out of the woods! Heck, will be lost so long we'll start our own civilization....the Lost Tribe of Bodilogix!

I know one thing for sure, before next years adventure I'm going to get "Mantracker" put on speed dial...not that I don't have any confidence in the Sarge...I'm also going to pack for 6 days instead of the 48 hours...not that i don't have any confidence in the Sarge...I'm going to buy a GPS...not that I don't have any confidence in the Sarge!

Remember..."God is great, beer is good and people are crazy"!!

Big Dave signing off!

2009-09-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

I'm baaaaaccckk!
Sorry folks but it's been a very busy time and i haven't had the opportunity to put anything on my blog. As you well know yesterday I weighed in and I lost another five pounds...i couldn't believe it! For the last two weeks i was only doing one a week and them wham, a big five kicks in! I don't know how that happened because I didn't change anything, but I'm not complaining...you know what I'm say'in, say'in. So the grand total is now 44 pounds which means I'm still on target for the magical 50 by Thanksgiving. I hope to lose 52 pounds by then to give me some wiggle room on that weekend...cause I'm letting loose baby!!

For the last few days the boys have had to use the women's showers as ours are being fixed. I'm not complaining...you know what I'm say'in. I think the men have brought a new flavour into the women's change room. Heck their change room is a like a spa! So a new presence has been established in the mini-spa...it's best described as...funkified. Yup, I'll just leave it at that...self-explanatory i think. By the way, you're welcome ladies!

Did you know that Dave Hughes is so old that when he was a boy the Dead Sea was only sick! Budda bing budda boom!

I made another big transition in my life last week...I shaved off my mustache! I had this lip cover for 32 years, it feels kind of a strange but so far it's been a positive reaction. Apparently it makes me look younger...I was actually trying to lose a pound! One thing that I've noticed since loosing the stache my nostril hairs are much more prominent...I need garden shears! Before they could be lost in my mustacheo but know they are free and flowing in the wind. I've come to realize that I'm just a living version of "Mr. Potato head"! Heck these things are so big I can braid them! Oh what I do for beauty.

A thought...would a fly without wings be called a walk? Makes one wonder.

Don't forget folks that the Sarge and I will be on Municipal Matters September 30th...make sure you tune in!

Also we will be doing our first speaking engagement to the Lion's Club just after Thanksgiving...move over Al Gore!

Big Dave signing off!

2009-09-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

LIGHTS...CAMERA...ACTION!:

Hello folks...as you well know today is Thursday which means another weigh-in for Big Dave. I jumped on the scales this morning...and I jumped and I jumped until that piece of crap was ready to be recycled into a toaster! I only lost one pound...the total is now 39. Once I recovered from my little outburst I went to the gym and voiced the news to the Sarge and fellow Breakfast Club members. Of course they were all very supportive...Andre thinks I need to go to therapy. What does he know...I've always had this head twitch. Anyways, my imaginary friends think he has the problem, we took a vote.

On a more uplifting note, the young lady who said I had inspired her to go on her own adventure has lost ten pounds! That was terrific news! She was getting a little frustrated for awhile but she kept up the workouts and eating right and now it's paying off...way to go Sandra!

So far I haven't had any (967-11-11 phone Pizza Pizza) cravings that you would know of. It's been pretty (Almond Joy has nuts, Mounds don't) smooth sailing so far. Really, it doesn't even (Harvey's makes a hamburger, a beautiful thing) enter my mind.

The Sarge and I have been asked to go on the Cable show called Municipal Matters on COGECO. We'll be taping the interview on September 29th and it will be shown on the 30th. That should create more great exposure for the Challenge and Northumberland Hills Hospital. I just hope the Sarge brings her A game. Remember Sarge...when in doubt, just mumble. Maybe she can wear her super hero outfit!? Hey, I still haven't received any suggestions for the name?! You know Halloween is coming up you know.

Random thought...if a cow laughs too hard, does milk come out it's nose? Things to wonder about.

Words of Wisdom..."You know your getting fat when you can pinch an inch on your forehead". John Mendozza.

Big Dave...out!

2009-08-31T07:18:00.000-07:00

UP, UP AND AWAY...TOO BODILOGIX!:

I had the opportunity to read the Sarge's blog today...just another inept attempt at humour, but she tries hard. You know, I could eat Alphabits and crap out a better blog! While I'm on the subject of the Sarge, she had some interesting things to say about her own training. She used to do her workouts in boots (Helga, she-wolf of the SS again) and she believes her power comes from her boobs! You know...Samson had the hair thing and the Sarge has the boob thing...why not. The Sarge is starting to look more and more like a super hero but what would be her name and what cause would she fight for? I'll wait to see if anybody submits any ideas in the comment section before I give my humble opinion. Also, with every super hero they normally have a side kick. I think the perfect choice would be Tracey L (Breakfast Club wannabe). Tracey was present this morning at Bodilogix, that's really all I can say. I mean when your shower lasts longer than your workout then there is something definitely wrong. What makes it worse is the Sarge let's her get away with it! Oh well, super heroes and their sidekicks, enough said.

On the weekend Rosie and I had the privilege of celebrating Henry's fourth birthday! If you didn't know already, Henry is Andrea and Dave's son. He looked like he was having a lot of fun! I also had the pleasure of meeting the parents and siblings of Andrea and Dave...what a great family! The cook of the day was Andrea's sister, Angela. She did up some chicken on the BBQ and it tasted great...until two hours later! Just kidding...I survived...barely.

Did you know if you weighed 100 pounds on Earth, you would only weigh 38 pounds on Mercury! That means by Mercury standards I only weigh 114 pounds! Can't wait until the shuttle missions start going there.

Remember...Stay thirsty my friends...drink lots of water!
Big Dave

2009-08-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

WILL THAT BE ONE GLUMP OR TWO?:

Another step closer to my goal, a pound at a time! This week I lost one pound bringing the total now to 38 pounds lost. Both the Sarge and I had expected a little better then that but what can you do. The Sarge scrutinized my food diary and of course picked it apart. I can no longer have three corn on the cob, only one...oh the injustice! I can no longer have three scrambled eggs, only two but I can add some egg whites...yek! I asked the Sarge how much egg whites can I have? She suggested getting "Egg Creations" and then putting in "glump, glump"! I of course asked the obvious question,how much is "glump, glump"? She stated glump, glump was exactly glump glump. I said what happens if it's glunk, glunk? Is that too much or too little as compared to glump glump? She said it is what it is. I asked her to put it into more specific terms of measurement. The Sarge said glump is one glump and glump, glump was two glumps! I knew I shouldn't have asked.

Did you know the human hair can hold 6.5 pounds of weight!? That means I could technically hang by 46 hairs...good to know should one be stranded on a cliff.

I was on the leg press again the other day and this time I was doing 350 pounds. I was quiet proud of myself and asked the Sarge to put on 400 the next time. The Sarge looked at me and said that the more I shrink the harder this exercise will get. I asked how that was possible? She said that because of my "girth" that I don't get the full extension. Ohhhhh...that really means I'm using my belly as a springboard! Well...when its a matter of survival you got to use what you can. During this particular exercise she had me do 50 reps while slowly taking some of the weight off...my butt is still sore!

One of the ladies( Tracey L) at the gym has made some overtures to wanting to join the Bodilogix Breakfast Club. I had to explain to Tracey that it isn't just a matter of showing up in the morning and having a workout...you have to present yourself with the appropriate attitude. You must be able to insult and harass your fellow members without flinching. You have to be brutally non-supportive...its a form of team building really. You must be able to give the insult and be able to receive an insult...it's the old give and take, the ying and yang. It comes down to embracing a lifestyle that not many are able to do; Don Rickles is our version of the Dali Lama. So Tracey L, if you can ying as good as your yang...we''ll consider you.

Here's an example of what I mean...Dave H (the old, old guy) stumbled over to the smoothie bar and said to me..."nice haircut...is it called the Fred Flinstone". I took it in stride (ying)...at least I don't have a mini-mullet (yang). You see how it works.

Yesterday the Sarge introduced me to a new exercise, which I have stated before that usually means pain! Not this time...just a little embarrassing. It's called the "sunshine"...that was my first clue. She brought out this large yellow ball (the sun) and I was to go side to side with it over my head...you know the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. I can't make this up people! So I'm now standing in front of the mirror with the "sun" over my head saying the sun rises and the sun sets...back and forth. The humiliation! I was waiting for her to pull out a mirror frame with no mirror and say " I can see Davey and I can see Johnny" . I'm no longer at Bodilogix, I'm in a time warp of Romper Room. Needless to say we only did one set of those.

Remember..."Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending" Maria Robinson.

Big Dave

2009-08-24T06:54:00.000-07:00

From Butterball Park to the Russian Ballet:

Well, we're half way through the week...I mean we're half way through my week. I no longer have weeks that go Sunday to Sunday. Mine go Thursday to Thursday...Julius Caesar came up with a new calender so I figure I can to! This Saturday I did my work out without the supportive presence of the Sarge...the peace and quiet was wonderful! I did the complete circuit training routine plus an hour on the treadmill. I felt so good i even came in on the Sunday (my day off) and spent some more time on the treadmill; I did 90 minutes.

Having such a good weekend of workouts, I felt pretty good coming in to the gym this morning and going into full combat engagement with the Sarge. I explained to her what I had done...very proud of myself and brimming with confidence when explaining the repertoire. The Sarge looked at me with a very non-committal look on her face (excellent poker face) then said "you didn't do any push ups". I went from star student to the remedial class! What would I ever do without the reality check (crap) that she gives me?

Today you are You, that is the truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.
Dr. Seuss.
The only explanation I have for quoting the Seuss man is that I just came from my work out from Casa De Wacko...so it all fits. Anyways, it's a cool saying.

Today the Sarge presented me with a new exercise...I had to get in touch with my inner ballerina. I told her it didn't exist but you know the Sarge, she doesn't take know for an answer. So this exercise was to hold onto a bar and then with a big ball behind me with one leg on it do the splits. While doing the splits you are supposed to keep your head up and the weight over your leg that's on the floor...I would have thought that one was pretty obvious! So, here I was in this ridiculous position trying to channel in my inner ballerina and it came to mind one thing. Why in God's name do male ballerina's have those traffic cones attached to their crotch?! Have they never heard of regular jock straps? Maybe there is some...under lying issues going on? I finally finished practising for Swan Lake and I can tell you that exercise works. Not only did I feel the burn in my leg and butt I've placed an order for a tutu! I'll now be known as the Great Cromlishkov.

Remember...Watch your thoughts for they become words.
Watch your words, for they become actions.
Watch your actions, for they become habits.
Watch your habits, for they become character.
Watch your character, for they become your destiny.

Signing off...Big Dave.

2009-08-20T07:51:00.000-07:00

CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES, C'MON!

(you have to sing that one, so start again)

It's Thursday...another weigh-in...I dread them and yet I get excited at the same time. So, I stepped on the machine from hell...I lost 5 pounds!! I couldn't believe it! That means I broke the wall (300), I didn't smash it, but I did indeed break it. That's a total of 37 pounds in 9 weeks which makes my current weight now 299. I'm sure glad I clipped my nostril hairs this morning, it probably gave me the extra pound! That was one of my personal milestones I was looking forward to. The other big milestones will be 50 and then 100...the numbers in between are really only fillers and nuisance. The Sarge actually smiled this morning! The rest of the Breakfast Club were very happy and supportive except for Methuselah...he must have slept in this morning.

I had a real heart stopper yesterday when I was on the "Lazy Boy" which is of course the leg press. I did my first set of 300 pounds and I was just taking a little break, hence my legs were no longer sticking up in the air pushing the weights...I was just sitting now with my legs on the floor and the safety bars were in position...so I thought! Old Dave H sachets over to see what I'm doing and probably to make a smartass comment or two. As I turned my head to speak to him I heard the sound of a train crash! The weights fell and of course the 300 pounds make a large sound when it hits more metal! Holy sh$t! I almost left a deposit on the seat! The weights only moved maybe a 1/2 inch but I thought I was done for. The safety on the one side wasn't totally in position so it slipped. As I was sitting there recovering from my near death experience, Dave H was standing there, didn't move a muscle...reflexes of a cat this one. He said don't worry Dave, i would have caught it. Heck, the speed he was moving at he would have been lucky to catch a cold! The Sarge just shook her head.

The day before the incident with the "Lazy Boy" I had another experience, this time on the treadmill. You know, somebody should really follow me around the gym because it's very eventful. Anyways, as I said, I was on the treadmill ( did you know that no two spider webs are the same?) and I was going at a blistering pace, for me. I was getting into a zen like space just ripping off the distance and time. I was one with the treadmill...no I was one with the world! It was so peaceful I thought I was floating on air, what a feeling. I soon realized I was floating on air, I was actually half way off the treadmill! Unbeknown to me, I was in such a state of harmony I didn't realize I was getting farther and farther back on the platform of the treadmill.
My heels were no longer hitting the walking belt, they were going off the back edge and within a nano second of totally going off! I went into survival mode and yelling out the battle cry known to many...Mommy! I was able to pick up the pace and get settled back into the rhythm. So much for being in zen mode, I think I was more in sleep mode!

Remember..."Life is a great big canvass; throw all the paint on it you can!" Danny Kaye.

Signing off...Big Dave

2009-08-17T07:02:00.000-07:00

Today brings the start of another week, another day closer to the weigh-in on Thursday. Hopefully I have made some ground on breaking the barrier, the Great Wall of China...the 300 mark! Over the last two weeks I had been doing a lot of two a day workouts but as of last Friday I decided to stop that. My body was telling me enough is enough. I wasn't giving it enough time to heal and I was in a constant state of soreness. So, I'm now just doing the morning workouts, six morning a week. I think I will get back in to doing some two a days again but it's not something I want to make a habit of. I'll listen to my body and how it is responding to the exercise regimen.

I was telling my wife on the weekend about some of the educational tidbits the Sarge has been telling me about different muscles and how to work them. I got on the subject of 6 packs (I'm a 24 man myself), you know the showcase of stomach muscles. Being the supportive wife that she is, she said ..."well, you've got a one pack"...I'm surprised I don't need therapy yet!

Last Saturday I was in the gym with the Sarge. It was just a good ole time...sweating my butt off. Out of nowhere the Sarge gets philosophical, she said..."you know with every valley there is a mountain"...Uhhhhh? I have no idea why she said that! Seriously, she might have some issues that are just starting to reveal themselves. I think she's trying to be the Marquise De Sade and the Dali Lama at the same time! What a troubled soul....

Did you know that the average person will consume 10,000 chocolate bars in a lifetime! Heck i used to do that in a month! Wimps.

I received some good news last week...the Chief of Durham Regional Police, Mike Ewles, has been inspired by my journey and has hired his own personal trainer! Way to go Mike, see you on the beach next summer!

Remember, if you're going to cross-country ski, start with a small country.

Here's to a long life and a merry one.
A quick death and an easy one.
A pretty girl and an honest one.
A cold beer - and another one! Amen to that one brother!

Big Dave signing off....

2009-08-13T10:48:00.000-07:00

VISIONS OF SUGAR PLUMS DANCED THROUGH THEIR HEADS...

Another Thursday has arrived, which means another weigh-in. I really wasn't looking forward to today as i had cheated by weighing myself on Monday and I had gained a pound!! I was so disappointed and I couldn't figure out how that happened. I spoke to the Sarge about it and she said that I was probably retaining water...then we booked a pedicure (not). The Sarge said that humidity can cause people to retain more water then normal, so i went with that. This morning i again ventured onto that dastardly machine looking for those red digital numbers to be engraved into my soul...I lost 2 pounds! Considering what happened on Monday, I'm very happy. The grand total now is 32 pounds.

Hopefully you remember in my last blog I talked about being introduced to the "lazy boy", which I still call the rack. Neglected to comment about what else happened while on the rack. First of all my knees were a little sore while pushing up on the weights, so the Sarge said to keep my knees together as tight as possible. I said okay, she put on more weights, I then continued on. While I was doing this particular exercise I suddenly thought of Christmas! You might ask yourself why?! It has nothing to do with Christmas trees, religious aspects, toys, turkey, nope...what really impacted on me were Nutcrackers!!! Oh my God...the pain... was ...excruciating! The Sarge wasn't aware of this dilemma so she kept on telling me to lift and keep the knees tight but she should have been telling me to lift and separate! Being the trooper that i am i continued on with this damn thing, in severe pain, looking for the moment to make some equipment adjustment. That precious moment never arrived, the Sarge stood over me like a vulture that hasn't feed in two weeks. When I was told to stop I was so happy, almost giddy really. I was walking a little differently but I just blamed it on my shoes (new shoes). The next time I do this exercise I'm going to do it "frog style"...get your minds out of the gutter people, it's all legitimate.

I noticed that Big Bob ( Robert Biron, CEO of NHH) put a comment on my blog. That was really (random thought: a typical bed houses over 6 billion dust mites...sleep well) special. I never thought that CEO's could be funny...nothings changed my mind so far. Just kidding big Bob!

This morning I was on the treadmill, just doing my normal thing, minding my own business, I'm very respectful of the people around me, only giving words of encouragement, that's just they way I am. Anyways Dave Hughes (elder statesman) saunters over and makes a comment about my lack of speed (harassment). I advised him that I was "warming down". Oh the Sarge almost split a gut! She said that should be "cooling down" and then went on to say..."so do you also cool up?" She was laughing and Methuselah (Hughes) was beside himself. Of course I know why brittle bones was laughing so hard, he was brown nosing! You know, some people just don't have any self-respect. I would never belittle myself to that extent just to please somebody. Oh, by the way Sarge...do want a baked potato with that steak?

Remember..."be careful of reading health books - you may die of a misprint" Mark Twain

See ya!
Big Dave

2009-08-11T07:25:00.000-07:00

SPACE, THE FINAL FRONTIER:

The sarge and I have been increasing the weight lifting component lately. I have to admit I prefer to do the weights as opposed to the cardio. For some reason it seems more interesting...learning the proper form and the challenge of increasing the weight. I'm actually starting to look like Lou Ferrigno (The Hulk)...not the muscles mind you, just a little green!

So far my cardio has consisted of the treadmill. I had no idea how dangerous those thing can be! Last week I was doing a brisk walk and then all of a sudden the power went out (The Sarge didn't pay the bill) and I almost ended up going through the TV screen! It was a sight to see, I'm sure! You have to picture how long it takes me to get that thing up to speed in the first place and then once i get rolling baby, watch out! I set a wicked pace (the power of visualization is very strong in this one Obe Wan) right up to level 6...man I'm smokin'. Wham! the power goes off and this thing doesn't roll to a stop, it just stops! As i was lunging head first towards the TV thinking about my own mortality, my life didn't pass before my eyes, i actually only thought how pitiful it was that my last breakfast on this planet was only a bowl of cereal! To top it off it was stale! Anyways, luck was on my side and I didn't end up in the TV, but it was close. It was so close that everyone in the gym looked at me, you know with the fake concern on their faces, and asked if I was okay.

On the same day (danger awaits at Bodilogix) one of the other morning regulars had a mishap. I always thought that "mishap" was such a nice non-threatening type of word...so innocent really. I digress, young Miss Melissa was walking across the gym floor and stepped on a mat which slipped from under her and down she went. I have never seen such a graceful fall as what she did that day! Heck when she landed on the floor she had the kuputz to pretend she did it on purpose...now that takes style! Maybe the Sarge is trying to get rid of us one at a time, she's been watching too many of those Final Destination movies I think.

Speaking of the morning regulars, what a great group of people. Somebody referred to it as the "old boys club", mind you Miss Melissa is not included in that of course. It's a strange dynamic...Andre shows up when he feels like it, Jeff is there every morning but for some reason he does his push ups out in the parking lot (he has a wood floor phobia, poor guy) , then there is Chris who wants to be a body builder (everybody needs a dream) and then the elder statesman of the group is Dave (not me). Poor Dave, it really is painful to watch but he tries so damn hard. As a society, we really need to encourage the elderly to stay active. While all this is going on the Sarge wanders around being the circus leader...she thinks she's in charge, what a funny girl!

Awe, funny you say...the Sarge introduced me to another machine the other day. She called it the "Lazy boy", it looked more like the rack from some medieval dungeon! I knew this was going to be painful when the Sarge actually starting laughing when she was trying to explain how I was to get into this thing! I kid not, her face was red and she was laughing...nothing but love and support at Bodilogix! Anyways i had to step inside the this thing holding on to a handle in front of me, but you can't stand straight up as it's on an angle and of course the belly factor comes into play with me. So now that I'm totally off balance I have to lower myself into the seat part...I think mine was more of a fall into the seat. So I'm now in this seat, looking up at the ceiling because of the angle it's on, safety bars and gadgets on either side of me so that the weights won't come crashing down on me. I never got the impression that this was a 'lazy boy" but I know now how Astronauts must feel before takeoff! This turned out to be an exercise for the butt and legs...with my a$$ pointed to the ceiling. I'm still trying to find the hidden cameras!

Remember when I said everyone has been looking into my grocery cart seeing what I was buying? It's now gone a step further...I've been ordered by the Chair of the Police Services Board that I'm not aloud to attend this weekends "Ribfest" ! This is going to a very, very long year!

Remember..."Some cause happiness wherever they go(me);
others whenever they go (Sarge)."
Oscar Wilde

Big Dave...to the Galaxy and beyond!!

2009-08-06T04:50:00.000-07:00

BIG DAVE'S IN THE HOOD:

Another Thursday has arrived which means another weigh-in. I always have mixed feelings about the weigh-ins. Part of me is excited, hoping that i had a successful week and the other is afraid of being disappointed with a low weight loss or even no weight loss. It has been exactly 45 days since the Sarge and I started this journey, my God 45 days with the Sarge, who would have thought! Anyways...I lost another 5 pounds this week bringing the grand total up to 30 pounds!

I've really started to notice the changes on how my clothes are fitting. In fact I'm on my last belt hole...great!

It was funny driving home from the gym last night with my son. He said you must be feeling better and I said I was. He then said "you know, I thought you would be irritable as sh#t for the next year but you've surprised me"...i really believe that should be on a "Get Well Card", it's a hit.

I read the Sarge's blog yesterday, interesting. I have to make a slight correction, I never said "yo Sarge". I'm not turning "Gangsta" people! I know I walk in with a limp and a shoulder roll but that's only because I'm in pain and if my pants are falling down to my ass it's because I'm losing weight! I come from east Cobourg not east L.A...you know what I'm say'in.

I've made another fashion change at the gym, I know longer wear a baseball cap. Those things just don't look right on my head! I looked in to the mirror and said..."mirror, mirror on the wall, who has the biggest head of all?" The reply was..."the man in the mirror"...strange, it sounded just like Michael Jackson! So no more ball caps, maybe a Bowler, Fedora or even a Tilly. I'm going to make a fashion statement that will go international. Go big or go home.

Remember...A smile is a sign of joy.
A hug is a sign of love.
A laugh is a sign of happiness.
And a friend like me....?
sh#t,
That's just good taste!

See ya homeys!

Big Dave

2009-08-04T10:32:00.000-07:00

Hey...has anyone seen Pokey?:

Hello folks...I wish I had something interesting to say today but nothing is really coming to mind. The back is on the mend so I've been able to get back into the weight training today. The Sarge increased the weights on me today, she said I needed to be challenged. That was special. By the time I hit the showers my arms and shoulders felt like rubber! What a crazy feeling. It was really interesting trying to put my shirt on...my arms weren't functioning. My mind was telling them to do something and the arms wouldn't obey. To make matters even more interesting, I had a knot in my shoelaces...it took me 15 minutes to untangle and a great deal of concentration! My limbs went rogue on me...just call me Gumby!

The Sarge thought I should expound upon what some of my downfalls were to actually get to 336 pounds in the first place. Of course we all know this was my 30 year plan to gain this weight in an endeavour to raise funds for the hospital but she wanted me to go deeper then that. Apparently somebody had told her I had a weakness for O'Henry chocolate bars...I wonder who told her that (Rosie the rat). Yes it's true, I just love those things. It wouldn't be unusual to consume two of those in the evening. Of course they would be the king size as I feel I deserve to be treated like a king. One needs to be treated with respect according to their status in life! Hopefully Rosie doesn't read this one! Another downfall was simply eating what was the easiest and quickest, which usually means something unhealthy. I've been getting better in keeping a supply of healthy foods in the house so making a decision on what to eat isn't so riddled with drama and impulse. The other tidbit (i love timbits) I would like to comment on is that ever since I started exercising I haven't had the same cravings for sweets or the easy fix. I guess that's just another side benefit to the whole exercise crap...I mean program.

Just remember this...the man who smiles when things go wrong has thought of someone to blame it on! I know some people who would call that just good management skills!

see ya,

Big Dave

2009-07-30T07:12:00.000-07:00

A QUARTER OF THE WAY:

Another day, another weigh-in...I lost .5 of a pound this week bringing the official total to 25 pounds. This might come as a surprise but I'm very happy with the .5! Considering for at least half the week was lying flat on my back and the other part was just slowly walking as part of the recovery program, it turned out okay. It's still going in the right direction and I know there will be further road bumps along the way. I like to rely on the lessons my mom used to give my brother and I, she was so wise. She would simply say "cheer up...the worst is yet to come" . She was always the optimist in the family. Just kidding, the secret is not to get discouraged and just keep on plugging away.

The poor Sarge wasn't feeling well yesterday...she had a massive headache all day. I'm finally wearing her down! I sometimes have this affect on people, I call it a gift, others call it a curse.

I've been able to do some walking on the treadmill over the last two days...okay it wasn't an actual walk per say. I don't even think I could call it a stroll...maybe lumbering is the best way to describe my time on the treadmill. It's a good thing they have handles on each side, i use it like a walker! I also have been using my new knee brace. It's great until it starts to slip and the brace becomes more like a splint! So again back to Barnacle Bill, all I need is an eye patch and a parrot on my shoulder! I wouldn't mind the rum though.

Random thought, everybody wants to go to Heaven but nobody wants to die...interesting.

WARNING, WARNING! This is not a test, I repeat this is not a test! White legs (normal size) seen in Bodilogix. Should you encounter such a sight please report it to the nearest tanning booth. Because of the slippage of the knee brace I've had to resort to wearing shorts during my workouts. These legs haven't seen a summer in 50 years! Hopefully my shapely legs won't distract the ladies from their work out routines...being this good looking can be a hindrance at times.

Yesterday the Sarge had a thought (it was a good day), she wanted to learn how to play golf. I think all that does is ruin a good walk! Actually, maybe she said I should play golf?! Could she be seeking relief from her headache?

That's enough of my ramblings for today.
"May the saddest day of your future be no worse then the happiest day of your past"
Somebody wise and thoughtful said that...so that excludes me!

Big Dave

2009-07-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

I'LL BE BACK!:

Speaking of backs (I'm so witty) my back went out on me last Saturday. I can't even say that I was doing anything strenuous or it's an old war injury...I was tying up my shoes! So sad! I was at the gym getting my sweats on, preparing for another adventure with the Sarge and then pain! i think I sat in the change room for about 20 minutes, couldn't move at all. I was finally able to waddle to the front of the gym to be greeted by the Sarge. All she said was..."you'll do anything to get out of this"...I felt the love people, I felt the love. Needless to say I couldn't enjoy the day with the Sarge and I went home...still in my sweats. I was in bed for the rest of Saturday and Sunday. Just going to the bathroom was a treat...I looked like a baby, bent over with hands out in front and muttering to myself (swearing). The things I do for beauty. Monday i was still sore and spent a good deal of the day in bed with a heating pad. Today, I went to the gym and did a very slow walk on the treadmill, the Sarge said was important to keep moving. The pain is still there but much better then at the beginning. Not sure what the results will be this week as I haven't been able to put my best foot forward...nor my worst foot.

I've noticed something, all my injuries/ailments are on my right side. My Achilles tendon, my knee and now my back! The only thing that disrupts this trend is when I have a brain cramp, that's usually full orbital! I know many people are agreeing with that comment.

Many people have noticed that I've lost weight. They all say my face is getting slimmer...does that mean I've lost 25 pounds off my head! Heck, I'm starting to look like a cartoon character! No comments please...

I know I've commented before about the quality of gym that Bodilogix is...it's first rate. They even have two ply!! That's a joke that needed to be flushed out.

Quote:
I know you believe you understand what you think I said, but I'm not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant.

I usually just say yes dear.

Well I had another groovy time putting this together, so what it is and what it shall be...peace out!

Big Dave

2009-07-23T07:15:00.000-07:00

ONE MONTH UNDER MY BELT...as opposed to over!:

Good morning everyone...I did the weigh-in this morning. I lost another 4.5 pounds this week which brings the total to 24.5 pounds! Both the Sarge and I are thrilled with the results but also keeping in mind the weight was expected to come off fairly easy at the beginning. I have stuck to the same routine over the last four weeks regarding my food intake and exercise routine. To be honest there has been some tough parts at the beginning but things are becoming easier and some of the aches and pains are on the mend. Speaking of pains, the Sarge ordered me a brace for my right knee. I went to pick it up yesterday (The Medicine Shop) to try it on...it was way too large! I was speaking to the person at the desk and they had to order this brace in special because of what the Sarge had told them...she must think I'm part elephant! This thing almost went around me twice! Anyways, just so everyone knows...I have normal size legs. The store will be ordering in a "normal" size brace for me. Something that will actually be in stock. As in the words of the Elephant Man..."I am not an amimal"... I think I need to book in some therapy sessions.

Yesterday the Sarge and i were doing our famous crab walk in the parking lot of Bodilogix. We then would walk backwards...the Sarge seems more comnfortable going backwards. Anyways one of our fellow gym members called it the Bodilogix Line Dancing. I get no respect.

I also got a message from the Regional Coroner, Dr. Peter Clark, via one of my co-workers. Being the smartass he normally is Dr. Clark said to tell me that he was very proud of what I was doing and now the Coroners Office can cancel the retainer they had for a crane! (did I mention therapy?) It's a good thing I'm not sensitive...he also knows that I will get him back. These little barbs have been going on between us for twenty years and i think I'm still winning.

As I close in to the magical number of getting below the 300 mark I was thinking of what i could do to celebrate that momentous occassion. First thing through my mind was to sit down and have a few pints (nectar of the gods) and partake in a few slices of pizza. You know the kind that are prepared with pepparoni that has been made by some Italian Mama in her kitchen, cheese from Sicily and mushrooms that are so fresh that they come from the Land of the Hobbits (I haven't thought about this much). I'll probably have a protein shake...I'm living on the edge baby!

ZEN:
Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead.
Do not walk in front of me, for I may not follow.
Do not walk beside me either,
just pretty much leave me the hell alone!
The Sarge.

Signing off,

Big Dave

2009-07-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

GETTING DOWN WITH MY PRIMAL SELF:

I faced a really big test over the weekend...I attended a Jack and Jill for a young lady (Amy Scowcroft) who is very close to our hearts. She's adorable and lovable and is marrying a fine young gentlemen by the name of Kyle Curtis. They truly make a great couple and I'm looking forward to their wedding in September. Anyways, enough of the sentimental stuff, it was tough being there with everyone having a few wobbly pops and digging into the wonderful buffet! Man, did it look good but I was able to control myself especially after being told by one of the people in the crowd they were watching me! The Sarge has spies everywhere...

Since my last blog I've had two more workouts with the Sarge. Last Saturday I entered the gym and in my normal jovial style wished the Sarge a good morning. She looked at me and actually asked how I was feeling! Thinking that this was a turning point and that our relationship was starting to improve I went for it...I said I was peachy keen and okey dokey, of course with a big dumb smile on my face. The Sarge replied " I'll change that", and... the workout begun...

When i look back on that exchange i really should be happy...the Sarge actually spoke two complete sentences to me...wow!

Every time I walk into the gym something comes over me...almost a spiritual revelation. I immediately think of the following Psalm..."Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I shall fear no evil"...very interesting indeed.

Over the last two weeks my work outs have been in the gym proper...remember my knee problem. The Sarge has me doing what's called the "Primal Pattern Movement training"...fancy shmancy I must say. I'm not sure but i think she's calling me a Neanderthal...do you think? I'll leave the explanation to this PPMT for the Sarge to explain...her blogs are missing quality content as it is.

We are just entering week 4 and i can report I have noticed some significant improvements! Even things such as getting out of cars is much easier...believe me weighing in at 336 pounds and getting out of a Sunfire can be a challenge. Also I have noticed a difference in my cardio which is evident in my workouts but also just in my daily activity. I'm definitely going in the right direction.

I had a very powerful and gratifying experience on the weekend. I was just coming out of the gym and a young lady pulled up in the parking lot. We exchanged morning pleasantries and to my surprise she also told me that she had been following my challenge and it inspired her to join the gym! All I can say is wow!

I'll leave you with the following;

Here's to you and yours
And to mine and ours.
And if mine and ours
ever come across to you and yours,
I hope you and yours will do
As much for mine and ours
As mine and ours have done
For you and yours!

That would make a good sobriety test!

Signing off,
Big Dave

2009-07-17T07:26:00.000-07:00

A'RE ! HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO SEA...I mean Bodilogix

Ahoy shipmates! It's Barnacle Bill the Sailor here! Good ole Barnacle Bill, quite the saucy lad he was. I won't repeat the song here, it just wouldn't be polite.

I enjoyed another day at the gym this morning. Today I was Sarge free so I spent the time on the treadmill. I've been able to work the time up to 70 minutes from just 20 minutes when i started. I'm not exactly covering a blistering( random thought, a Zebra is white with black stripes, how do they know that!?) pace but I do get to 6 Kilometres and I also have it on a slight incline. I would like to cover 10 Kilometres at a time but that will come later.

The knee seems to be getting a little better but now the Achilles tendon is acting up...sore! Usually once I get warmed up it feels better and I can continue with what I'm doing but this morning it never really felt good. Eventually I had to slow down the pace but i still did the 70 minutes. All these aches and pains are to be expected and it's just something that has to be dealt with and move on.

This morning I did another interview with The Breeze 107.9, this time with Joe Snider. He seems like another good lad and he has also gone through his own weight reduction... a lot of us seem to be facing this battle. I'm amazed about how nice the staff are at the local radio stations...it's hard to believe that they work for Dave Hughes and Don Conway! Just kidding boys.

I just remembered when I was on the treadmill this morning I saw a reflection of myself...God have mercy! Man i looked like a baby moose on skates...I'm not exactly the most graceful mammal on the planet. I told that to the Sarge this morning and she actually disagreed with me. She said I have the wrong perspective on what I look like (awe)...she said I look like an adult moose on skates! Again I felt the love...

Celtic Blessing:
May you live as long as you want
And never want as long as you live.

Signing off,

Big Dave

2009-07-16T07:23:00.000-07:00

IF IT WALKS LIKE CRAB AND TALKS LIKE A CRAB...UH!?

Good morning losers or wanna be losers!

Today brings the close of another week in the trenches with the Sarge. We had a great week...I lost 5 more pounds! That brings the grand total to 20. For all you math wizards out there that is 1/5Th of the way to our goal!

Before starting on today's blog i took the opportunity to see what the Sarge has been saying on hers. She never talks to me in person other then a nod, grunt or yell. I had no idea she had such an excellent grasp of the English language until I read her blog...who would have thought! Actually I've exaggerated a little bit, she did make a comment to me yesterday, it was something like "you smell like the sound end of a northbound skunk"...and then are workout started. She always knows how to truly welcome and nurture her people...heartwarming really.

Yesterdays workout was definitely the hardest so far, which is all good. We did the crab walk again, remember Crommer the crabby crab? Well this time it was Crommer the crabby cumvented crab! She instructed me to do the walk now carrying a 9 pound ball in front of me. So, off we go across the parking lot doing the crab and I noticed that the ball fit perfectly on my belly, just like a little ledge. Hey, this is going better then I thought until the Sarge spotted me...OOPS! Needless to say I was instructed in the kindest of terms to extend the ball out in front of me...the only sense of humour that I have found so far are in her blogs. I was going to say something back to the Sarge then I snapped out of it, thank God. You know Jim Croce was not only a great singer but some of his songs contained very valuable life lessons like this one..." you don't spit into the wind and you don't step on Superman's cape"...! Need I say more?

Speaking of crabs...don't go there people, stay with me, I had to see the Dermatologist yesterday. I had some small little growths on my arms and I thought they might be warts, nope, they're barnacles!! Heck I'm not only waking like a crab I'm turning into one! This working out stuff is pretty powerful. I kid you not about the barnacles, i couldn't make this stuff up. Apparently it's a build up of dry skin and they can be easily treated by freezing them. The Doc would only treat the larger ones, you know the size of a termite mound. I had to pass this one on as the coincidence was just too funny...man I kill myself.

When i was at the Doctor's office waiting for my turn a gentleman came over and offered his encouragement and then made a pledge of a $1 per pound! That made my day...until i found out I was turning into some big crustacean!

The quote of the day..."Dream as if you'll live forever, live as if you'll die today"...James Dean

Signing off...in the words of little Henry,

Big Dave

2009-07-11T06:52:00.000-07:00

One Day out of 365:

Good morning Vietnam!! Ooops, I mean Cobourg and surrounding areas! I had to borrow that memorable line from Robin Williams because frankly I don't have anything exciting to report today. I went to Bodilogix first thing this morning, said good morning to the Sarge ( I think she nodded back, or she had a twitch) and then I went straight to the treadmill. I hobbled my way for a total of 62 minutes...definitely the longest stretch so far. The knee is really becoming a pain in the butt (I've got that as well) but the journey must continue. The Sarge has ordered a brace for my knee so hopefully that will remedy the situation...if not, amputation might be the answer. Say good bye to the knee and probably 60 pounds! Heck that means I would only have 25 pounds more to go....uummmmmmmh. I'll have to ponder that one.

So far I've been able to stick to my new life style...Lord knows I'm not supposed to say the "D" word. I've been eating chicken, fruit, vegetables, yogurt, almonds, various salads and the awesome Wild Berry protein shakes from Bodilogix. I have to say it hasn't been that difficult and I think the exercising has a lot to do with that...I just don't feel as hungry as I used to.

I hope nobody is critiquing my grammar because I'm really not trying to write a literary classic...mind you the Sarge and I could give War and Peace a run for it's money! I remember growing up and listening to that singing cartoon commercial..."conjunction, conjunction what's your function"...unfortunately that's when I turned the TV off. If you know all the words to that educational moment please share it on the comment section of my blog (other then sandy).

I'm on vacation for the next two weeks, it's actually a staycation. That's the new in word for not going anywhere. That's all okay because I'll be able to keep to my normal routine with going to the gym every morning. I really didn't want to interrupt the flow of things. I think it's important to get this new behaviour drilled into my head; its way too early to break away from that even for a little bit.

The quote for the day..." A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice"...Bill Cosby.

Signing off...

Dave

2009-07-10T07:53:00.000-07:00

LEATHER STRAPS...OH MY:

The food police were out again yesterday...I think there is a conspiracy afoot to get me to lose weight! I was in the grocery store and I had three people check out what I was buying! I think the Sarge is having me followed.

Today we discarded the route march and instead we did some circuit training in the gym...fun. The Sarge was concerned about the knee problem so decided to this instead. I actually started to think Sarge had a heart after all...wrong! The circuit training almost friggin killed me ( random thought, did you know the hippopotamus has a gestation period of 8 months) every time I thought I was finished there was something else to do! We went over to this one machine that had leather straps, she then said she has the boots to match! All of a sudden she started talking like this "Ve have vays of making you vork" , she is no longer just Sarge, she's Helga she wolf of the Waffen SS! That pretty much describes the rest of the morning.

At one point she said she was going to have me do a hand stand...okay nothing like a fractured skull! Maybe she thought this would take my mind off my knee; turns out she said a ham stand.

Right now it's several hours removed from my time in the gym...oh the agony. It's all for a good cause though.

I know this is really what your waiting for..." The day after tomorrow is the third day of the rest of your life"...George Carlin.

Signing off...

Dave

2009-07-09T11:02:00.000-07:00

The Great Escape:

Today is Thursday which means it's time for the weigh in...I lost 2.5 pounds this week which means my total loss so far is 15 pounds. Only 85 more pounds to go...if you say it quickly it sounds better.

I read the Sarge's blog today and found it quite funny...she must take her happy pill after I leave! I had no idea she could be so witty and entertaining...maybe the punch line looses it's meaning when she barks it at me??

I was going to give you the run down on my routine but the Sarge did a terrific job in outlining what I do everyday. You would almost think she knew what she was doing! The last workout she had me do some pretty descriptive movements like the "Sumo Squat", the "Plank" and the "Crab". She also mentioned a "diaper"...these workouts are starting to sound a little kinky to me! Are we working out or are we working on some deep, dark , problematic psychosis that she's trying to free herself from!?

The knee is still a big issue...oh the pain. I was able to work through the pain this morning when I was on the treadmill but the damn thing went out on me when I was in the shower! There I was stuck in the shower, couldn't put any weight on it and of course the tiles are slippery because of the water. I felt like MacGyver trying to figure out an escape! So, I'm butt naked (there's a visual, hope I didn't ruin lunch) water running and thinking of my options...they weren't many. I was beginning to understand what a beached Beluga whale feels like... I became one with nature, again. Fortunately (did you know you can still sweat while in the shower) after a few minutes some strength returned to my knee and I was able to hobble around and get dressed. Oh happy days! Where were those Greenpeace guys when you need them?!

Another thought about the weigh in today...I have to admit I was a little disappointed in the amount. But, it's way too early to get discouraged, that will come further down the road.

The quote of the day..."Thought is the sculptor who can create the person you want to be". Henry David Thoreau.

I'm outta here!

Dave

2009-07-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

Bigfoot Sighted in Butterfield Park:

Here's my impression of Julia Childs..."Helloooooooooooooo"...work with me people, work with me.

As usual the Sarge and I went out on our little adventure this morning, walking through the hills and listening to the sounds of the birds singing and me wheezing! Trust me, it's a sight to behold. Part of our routine is to go into Butterfeild Park (Sarge calls it Butterball Park...she's laughing with me right?) and do our push ups and various other little movements of torture. This morning we did a new exercise called the crab walk. I never liked crab and I sure didn't like the crab walk. The Sarge bellowed out the following instructions..."bend your knees, stomach in, back straight, butt out, arms in front, look up and smile, because you're a happy crab"! Somewhere in there I'm sure she used the words "dumb ass" as well, but maybe that was a neighbour yelling at me?! Anyways, by the time I got into this position i was already sweating! But we were not done, oh no, no, no. I then had to walk side step in that same position with my ass pointed to the street! In between side stepping and passing out while standing, I'm sure heard "dumb ass"
again. I was not a happy crab...I was Crommer the crabby crab! The things I have to do for beauty.

The Sarge happened to mention in her last blog about my gardening accident. Before she has the pleasure of telling the world what actually happened I'll tell you. Sunday afternoon I decided to tackle the jungle in my front yard. Everything was going well until I reached the very front garden...of course. I was leaning over picking the weeds when all of a sudden i lost my balance and went head first into the petunias! Apparently a faint quake was registered on the Rector Scale and calls were made to the police station. No fear folks, it was just me. Who ever said that weebles wobble but they don't fall down! That's BS, and no I didn't come out smelling like roses, they were petunias dammit!

This morning I was interviewed by two great lads, Joel Scott and Mike Cutting. One was from The Breeze and the other from The Star radio stations. Both were very supportive and wanted to keep in contact over the year to do some follow up interviews. I think that is great, the more exposure hopefully the more pledges! I told the guys they might have to work around when Oprah wants me...you never know.

Well, my lunch time is over and it's back to fighting crime, battling injustices and preserving the Canadian way of life. The quote for the day..." the only real diet: if it tastes good spit it out." Unknown.

signing off,
Dave