I wish I had money for an elliptical...I love those. I have a bad knee and other than a stationary bike or swimming and walking I don't really have much advice. The only thing close to running for me was this one machine at my old college...I THINK it was an elliptical but it was slightly different. I'm seriously going to have to call them and ask, lol.
Oh and I just wanted to say you have a way of writing that is very enjoyable to read

Glad you got a chance to start you diary and keep up the good work