Day Five

I am down 4 pounds!! Feeling good today. I will post more information later along with my food journal:)

How are YOU doing?

Day Three

It's been a good one!

I woke up ready for the day. Today's message from the book I'm using was so true..."Today you''' notice it getting a bit easier.". I agree. I haven't craved sweets, my portions have been small and I've been full and I couldn't wait to walk.

Today was upper body.

I skipped out again. I am just so nervous. It seems whenever I lift anything my neck and shoulders ache for days and I end up with a migraine. Very frustrating!! I think what I'll do tomorrow is the moves without the weights...just think it's good to do something.

As of this morning the scales says I'm down 2 pounds and I put a pair of shorts on that normally is too snug. They felt great all day!

I am not eating everything from the book but eating healthy and comparable to the foods in the book.

All in all I am very pleased with the motivation it is providing me!!

How is your week?

Day Two

Woke up achy today. My neck, shoulders and head hurt so bad...my energy level was low and really wasn't sure how today would go.

So proud of what I did in spite of the pain.

I watched everything I put in my mouth, wrote it down and ate only quality foods. That's what Chris had me focus on today...quality vs. quantity. She reminded me how my day is affected by the foods I choose to eat. So true.

Today was lower body/abs and walking. To be honest...I just couldn't bring myself to do abs today. I did walk for 46 minutes, doing walking lunges and lots of hills. My legs are on fire tonight. Love it!

Out of 5 stars I give myself a 4 today.


"Our thoughts and imaginations are the only real limits to our possibilities."  -Orison S. Marden

Day One

Today I began Chris Freytag's "2-Week Total Body Turnaround".

Here's the rundown of my day...

I focused on my upper body and core. Today's exercises included bicep curls and tricep curls. Plus ab work. Chris suggests you start out light and slow your first day especially if it's been awhile since you lifted. It had been nearly 6 months for me...so I did take it easy. It sure felt good though.



And even though I intended to do my work this morning I didn't make it to my home gym till around 2:15. I was committed though and got the work done.

Chris suggests that we need to learn the "3 C's" of weight loss. They are....commitment, consistency and convenience.

I love her advice on commitment...

"It all comes down to squeezing it in. The We're all busy and have endless lists but keeping fit is important to me, so I look at it like the other things I need to do."


I was committed today. I ate small portions, lots of fruit and veggies, drank my water and ended my night with an hour and 10 minute power walk with a friend.


Going to bed feeling so good about myself.

"Determination gives you the resolve to keep going in spite of the road blocks that lie before you."  -Denis Waitley, motivational speaker

What are you committed to? Please let me know!

Preparing...

So tomorrow is the first day of the rest of my life.
Yep.
I'm gonna do it this time.

I mean I say that every time.
But somehow I mean it.
After all it's only 2 weeks.
I can commit to anything for 2 weeks.

In the 2-Week Total Body Turn-Around, there is a "Commitment Contract" for me to fill out and sign. Here it is....

My Commitment Contract

I am starting this program on this day...Monday, August 8th, 2011. 

Because...I am tired of feeling squishy. I am tired of none of my clothes fitting. I have to wear a bigger size and that's just not acceptable. I feel overwhelmed by my weight. I tire more easily and I just don't feel as confident as I know I can. 

At the end of 2 weeks I want to feel...energized. Like I am on my way to making healthy, life changes. Thinner and more confident. Proud that I stuck with something and finished it! I also want to be in the habit of exercising daily with both cardio and weights again. I miss that!

When the 2 weeks are over, I will...be proud of ME. Proud that I did it! I know this will give me the energy and confidence boost I need in other areas of my life. I will also continue to exercise and make better food choices so I can get to my ultimate goal weight. 

In the past, I have started my weight loss journey only to give up within a few weeks or even days. I always give in to sweets. That seems to be my downfall these days. Also chips. I start strong but never do I finish strong.

My lack of planning and preparing has typically stood in the way of my accomplishing similar goals.

I will sidestep these obstacles this time by staying on top of this program by planning my time and not using TV or housework or whatever as an excuse.

Here is an excerpt from the book that really speaks to me...

"What you do and think over the next 2 weeks will have a profound impact on your success both in the near term and in the distant future. Two weeks, when compared to your entire life, is nothing-a mere blip. But when you consider these 2 weeks being the launching point toward eating  more healthfully and exercising regularly, the shift is monumental." 

So tomorrow it begins. Tomorrow I am committing to eating better foods, exercising daily and drinking more water.

In the book, each day has it's own section of recipes and workouts along with a motivational quote and tips to achieve your goals. My focus tomorrow is upper body and core. Two areas that need my attention desperately:) On the menu is a turkey meatball pocket, fruit and Lemon Garlic Shrimp. Looking forward to that...sounds yummy.

My plan is to share here daily for the next 2 weeks. If you want to follow along...please do and be sure and let me know!! I could use the support:)


"Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it."  -Lou Holtz, legendary football coach

Jump Start

So did you think I wasn't coming back?:)

Oh I am here.
I have been making small changes in my life so I can be healhier.
I so want to focus on that right now.

In May when the headaches began coming on severe I went into a deep depression.
I didn't want to be around anyone.
My family hated being around me.
I was never happy.
I wasn't living that's for sure.
Just trying to figure out how to get through the day without pain.

But all that has changed now with my diagnosis.
So the past 2 to 3 weeks I have been taking Baby Steps.
Getting up an hour early to go walk {i have energy now!}.
Taking 1 point popcorn to the theater instead of downing a half bucket of grease.
Making sure I'm drinking water throughout my day.
Washing my face.
Moisturizing my skin.

I am such a "plan" person.
I know that when I'm given some sort of plan...goal...it's easier for me to do the work.
So I had been on the lookout for some sort of weight loss plan that I could do right at home...you see I had to quit Curves due to my neck and leg pain {yes, i still have those issues but they are MUCH better}...so home workouts are the best for me.

I was soooo elated when I found this little gem at Hastings Bookstore last week....

It was on clearance so I thought what the heck.
After reading it I am sooooo excited and thankful to have found this book!!!

So this weekend I am gathering all my food and exercise equipment, creating a journal and gearing up for this Jump Start to begin on Monday.

Currently I weigh 156.8 and my size 14 capri's aren't feeling so good. My middle is thick so shirts don't look as nice as they used to.
My goal for the next two weeks include....

*Down to 150
*Increased energy
*Improved diet {clean eating}
*Look better in my snug t-shirts

Each day I will share a bit of the book with you as well as my progress.

Are you ready?

I know I sure am!!

See you Monday!:)

"If we really want to live, we'd better start at once to try."  -W. H.Auden

I am here and READY!

Can you believe it!? I haven't posted one thing here since May. Whoa.

I started getting overwhelmed with everything about then and feeling bad. I mean my body was achy and my headaches were spinning out of control. After 2 specialist I am very happy to report that I have Hashimoto's Disease. It's where some months I'm Hypo thyroid and some months I can be Hyper thyroid. Really, I think I've only been Hypo and I've been that for years. It's amazing how much better I"m feeling!!! I take this drug called Synthroid. It's been a lifesaver for me.:)

So anyway...I have been a busy girl with my other blog...my Artsy Blog...Words of Me Project. Art helps me get through the bad days you know...and, well to be perfectly honest...Skinny Me was just something I didn't care about. Because of the pain and worn out feeling I had all the time...I didn't care one bit about my body.

But all that is about to change.

Oh, yeah.

I feel soooo good!

And I am soooo READY to get back into my healthy habits.

This week I've been walking 50 minutes to 1 hour a day and watching what I eat. Lots of veggies from the garden...so good.

I treated myself to Health magazine...so I think I'll catch up with all of you then head to my couch with magazine in hand.

I am back:)

What have you been doing? How is your weight loss going?? Share any tips!

On my way...

Just checking in for the week. Curves is going beautifully. Really, this is exactly what I needed. In case you didn't know...Curves is so much more than a workout. They measure you, weigh you and motivate you. They have this really cool thing called Curves Smart...it's a computer chip that tells me when I need to workout harder, how many calories I burned and where my weak and strong parts are. Truly inspiring!

I began keeping a food journal today, too. I mean we both know that a food journal is truly necessary for weight loss. It keeps us accountable. After I buy a new memory card for my camera I am gonna start posting my food again, too. That always helps me.

I am moving forward and feeling like this is my summer to reach my goal!!:)

"Determination is the wake-up call to the human will."  -Anthony Robbins

What goals are you striving for this summer?

Weekly Goals

Looking forward to a healthy week. I am in a much better place than I've been in a few months. Still a ways to go when it comes to my weekend eating...but working on that.

My goals for the week are simple...

Curves 5 days this week
Walk outside 2 to 3 days this week
WATER
Less food
Clean food
Keep up with my entries here...they help me focus!
Read all your motivational blogs:)

Be miserable. Or motivate yourself. Whatever has to be done, it's always your choice.
Wayne Dyer

All Fired Up!

It's been a few weeks...time has flown by!! Lizzy's Benefit is over and was a big success! You can read all about it on my other blog here.

By the end of planning for the Benefit I knew I had to change the way I was living. I was eating very poorly...lots of sugar and fast food, migraine headaches were becoming an everyday occurrence and exercise was dwindling to one day a week if I really made an effort. In short I was becoming disgusted with my behaviors.

So I sat down and really thought about all the weight loss blogs I read and fitness books and magazines and realized what was missing. I was bored. I hated my workouts. The gym just wasn't doing it for me anymore. And while I love my walks with my friend...she couldn't go daily with me and on days she didn't go...I didn't go. I knew I needed something fun and exciting and new to jumpstart my fitness and weight loss and I found it!!!

We have had Curves in Maryville for years but for whatever reason...I just didn't think it was for me. Well, was I ever wrong. I LOVE it!

So, here I am...with 5 Curves workouts under my belt and already feeling stronger, healthier and more confident! When I make the choice to workout in the morning...the rest of my choices become better. I choose fruit over a cookie or a salad over chips. Yes, one choice can make all the difference!!

How are you all doing? I haven't been by your blogs in a few weeks...I will catch up!!!!

Spring Goals

So last week I told you I was re-committing to this weight loss thing. I actually had 3 really good days in a row but then...it was Easter Sunday and I had was like a shark in an ocean of blood...I went on a frenzy. Chocolate, rolls, sweet potatoes, real butter....I was eating faster than I could chew.

But, it's Monday. And Monday's are good. Spring is good. It is a time of renewal.

My WORD for 2011 is REINVENT. I have been reinventing the way I do art, the way I look at my life. The way I interact. I am trying to get involved and serve others more. I am on the right path with it all but my health. So here are a few "mini" goals for the next 2 months....

April 25th-July 1st Health & Fitness Goals

*I will get to 148.0 by July 1st, 2010

*I will eat less at every meal, never eating till I am stuffed

*I will allow myself a splurge meal once a week

*I will exercise at least 4 days a week for 30 minutes or more

*I will share positive entries and quotes here on my Blog

*I will turn to others for inspiration and motivation and try to help them along

*I will remember that I am only human and I can't do it all...I can only do my BEST.

What are some of your short term goals?

Brave Girl Art Give Away

I am having a give away on Words of Me Project. Check it out!!!

Hungry Girl

So, I love Hungry Girl. Love her emails {have received them since she began quite a few years ago}, have one of her books and watch her show on the Cooking Channel. She has a new book out "300 Under 300" and was seriously thinking about getting it. Do you have the book? What do you think of Hungry Girl? I would love some advice!:)

Today I have felt so out of shape. Really I'm not...I mean nothing's changed...it's just the weather. It affects what I eat, how much I eat and how I feel about myself. Overall it has been a good eating day.

Thanks for all the kind words. I promise to stay here, blogging my way to a healthy way of life.:)

"Most of the shadows of

this life are caused by 

our standing in our own sunshine."

       -Unknown

Re-Committment

My husband and I are recommitting ourselves to losing together. He has been so successful this past year but is still 15 pounds away from his goal. So grateful for my sweet Dave!!!

This is Dave one year ago...

 

Ugh...terrible photo of me. Anway...so that's Dave last year...

Here he is just last Monday on his 46th Birthday...30 pounds lighter!!

{I look the same-sigh}

Love this photo!

I am proud of him.  He is my inspiration!!

So, girls...I know I have been super negative here. NO MORE. I promise myself today that this is a place for positive thoughts, feelings and quotes. And Mer and Mo...thank you for reminding me that even though I am crazy busy now...it is not an excuse to neglect my health!! I appreciated that!!!

"There's nothing in this world that

comes easy. There are a lot of people

who aren't going to bother to win.

We learn in football to get up and go once more."

-Woody Hayes

Here...

I haven't fallen off the earth. Just been busy. Still trying to make better food choices. Trying to fit in exercise.

I am not doing great...but not doing bad.

How are you all doing?

I'm ok

I am still on this roller coaster called weight loss. One day I eat well, stay hydrated and workout. The next day I'm sneaking bites of cake and doughnuts without so much as walking up a few stairs. *sigh*.

Today is  a good day though. Today I woke up with energy to spare. Took a brish 37 minute walk outside and enjoyed the sun on my face. Really brightened my mood!

Planning on a salad for lunch with shrimp. Should be good. Drinking lots of water, too.

"To accept ourselves as we are means 

to value our imperfections as much

as our perfections."  -Sandra Bierig

Do you accept yourself today?

Happy Friday

So happy it's Friday. I have a Deep Tissue massage in just an hour and I am sooo excited!

I did workout today. 30 minutes to my Latin DVD. There is a way to customized it so I did that...made it so much fun and I did catch on to the moves a bit better.

My weigh in went so well on Wednesday!! I am down to 155:) Just gotta keep this momentum going.

"Champions keep playing until they get it right."  -Billy Jean King

Day 3

It is Day 3 of my fitness journey and I haven't worked out yet. I was up throughout the night with a very upset stomach...still just kind of queasy. I think it's a lack of sleep mostly. It's all good though.

Today I can feel my efforts from Monday and Tuesday...I am sore! Feels so good to have achy "workout" muscles:)

"Great things are not done by

impulse, but by a series of small

things brought together."

     -Vincent Van Goagh


What have you accomplished by taking it one small step at a time?

Day 2 and everything is okay....

I am busy. Currently I am working on a 31 Days Creative Challenge on my other blog and I am supposed to be guest posting on another blog and I am in charge of a benefit dinner and auction for a dear friend coming up in May and my house is messy and needs my attention and I am Co-Camp Director for the young women in our Church and I have lots to plan for that by June 6th and I teach early morning class at my church to the youth 5 days a week. 

And did I mention my house is a mess with laundry and clean clothes piles everywhere, papers and stuff littering every table top.

Whew.

I am busy.

We all are though, aren't we?

But I am very proud to say that even though I am feeling pressure to get more done in one day than one woman should have to do...I managed to workout.

I did.

It's true.

Today I spent 38 minutes in my space lifting weights, doing step moves on the step bench, crunches, leg lifts and stretching. It was awesome.

I give myself a B for the workout and an A for making an effort:)

"Be grateful for yourself....be thankful."  -William Saroyan

What have you done lately that you deserve an A for?

And So the Journey Begins

Happy Monday! It is a NEW day, friends and I am loving it! So what if in the past 2 weeks I have eaten more than one person should consume...I have taken a nibble here, a dollop there, a sneak after everyone's gone to bed...you get the picture...

But TODAY I challenge myself to workout to a whole new beat...today I popped in this.

And you know what? It was fun and before I knew it one whole hour, 60 minutes had passed and it was over. I was sweating, I was energized, I was smiling. It's been a while, folks since I've finished after any kind of exercise. This was good!

As it turns our I have quite a few workout DVD's...

It's kind a weird that I have 3 Pilates DVD's and I just bought another one last week. I don't really do Pilates...but I do know it's good for me so I guess my subconscious is trying to tell me something:)

Anyway, I had forgotten how much fun workout DVD's are. I think I may just become an exercise DVD junkie!!

So, if you read my post from Friday you know that I am on a mission. I have challenged myself , starting today and running through June 6th, 2011 to workout at least 3 days a week to one of my DVD's, walk 2 days a week and do some kind of strength training at least one day a week. Along with the workouts I intend on eating better...this is always the hard part for me.

I also promised I would post my Before photo and share my progress. I must admit...I am not looking forward to posting these...but a promise is a promise....;)

Day 1

I put in the Latin Cardio Dance DVD. Was a bit nervous...wasn't sure if I could get the hang of the moves. It was hard. They go a bit fast in the DVD and don't explain the moves in advance well. I just kept moving my body {especially my hips} and sweated my way through 60 minutes of cardio, toning and stretching. The stretching felt amazing!! I give today's workout a B+.

My Before/side view

See that roll of fat...ugh. Makes jeans fit terribly...

That fat on my back...ick.

I hate the fact that I have that fat roll in my lower abs. My jeans fit so snug.

Can you say muffin top anyone?

I currently wear a size 14 jeans. I am so thick in my middle. My closet is FULL of size 10 and 12 jeans, shorts and capri's. Just a few short years ago they all fit perfectly. Those were the days.

I am not showing you my legs...my thighs have zero definition. Lots of fat. So want to tone them. I don't wear shorts...

And just so you know...last May, after really watching what I ate and walking like a mad woman I was back in my tens. Felt AMAZING!

I will get there again.

I will!!:)

"Immense power is acquired by assuring yourself in your secret reveries that you were born to control affairs."  -Andrew Carnegie

Setting Goals and Cleaning

So, I found a latin dance DVD at Wal-mart along with a small pilates ball and DVD. No Zumba but according to the description of the latin dance it is pretty much the same thing.

I have also set up an area downstairs to workout in complete with mat, light weights and a step.

I will take photos of myself later on today and put a Before photo up on my sidebar along with my goals and a few stats about me now.

Let the transforming begin:)

Today I am transforming our upstairs. We have clothes and too much junk just everywhere. It is driving me bonkers!!! My goal is to make it a clean, fresh looking area TODAY!!!


What are you doing this weekend?

I'm gonna Zumba my way to fit!

Alright...so yesterday was spent on the couch. I had one doozy of a migraine. Ouch!

Happy to say I am feeling better...although still a bit under the weather. Just tired. Migraines take a lot out of me. Anybody else suffer from them?

While I spent the majority of the day on the couch it gave me lots of time to think and plan. I am a planner...so this time was greatly appreciate. Part of my plan was inspired by an infomercial I came across while flipping through channels {there is absolutely nothing on during the day!}. It was this....Now I had heard of Zumba. I mean you have to live under a rock to NOT heard of it, right? There are even classes at my gym...however I don't do group classes so that is a no.

Anyway, I watched this infomercial and was really inspired!! The gym has gotten soooo boring for me. I dread going there. And while I usually enjoy walking outside...lately...it is just okay. I know I need to do something else. I need to work my core, my legs, my arm...my whole body. For years I popped in a step aerobics tape every morning and LOVED it. Maybe this Zumba would be fun, too...

So, yes...I have decided to try it. And to make it really fun and to hold myself accountable here's what I'm gonna do...track my progress here...on Skinny Me. Yep. That's the plan.

I am off to find a Zumba DVD today. Not even sure if our local Wal-Mart carries them...but gonna check it out. If not I'll order the informercial. Once I get the program I'm gonna take a BEFORE pic of me and post here. My plan is to do Zumba 3 times a week, walk outside 2 times a week and try my Wii Active once a week. I will post my progress here!

The plan begins this Monday, March 28th and will end on June 6th.

Ten weeks of Zumba goodness:) Hope you'll join me!!

“Everyone has a 'risk muscle.' You keep it in shape by trying new things. If you don't, it atrophies. Make a point of using it at least once a day.”

 Roger Von Oech quotes

Thank you....

Thank you for supporting me here and letting me be me. When I started this blog a few months ago I just wanted it to be a place I was real...I place I could write out every feeling I have regarding food, exercise and my weight. I don't intend to purposely "grow" my blog but LOVE the fact that I do have readers!! YOU inspire me!! With your comments and your blogs. So thank you so much for taking the time to read my craziness and help me as I go along.

Today is Monday. I love Mondays.
I am starting fresh.
I posted on Weight Watchers this morning.
I walked for 30 minutes.
I have drank half my water for the day.
I am in a good place today.

"Life is a mirror and will reflect back to the thinker what he thinks into it."  -Ernest Holmes

What is your "mirror" reflecting back to you today?

Really, I'm here again?

Awww, geeze....I am here again. The dreaded "I feel fat" place.

I hate this.

This rollercoaster ride of eating good, working out and feeling amazing to eating crap, being lazy and feeling blah.

I signed up for Weight Watchers nearly 5 weeks ago but in the past 2 weeks I haven't make time for it. I feel icky and fat.

It seems like I live for Mondays...fresh starts, you know.

I won't quit. I am here for the long haul. I am being real.

Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit. – Conrad Hilton

Get Back Up

I am back...the good, want to eat healthy me.

How is it I can be sooooo "good" one day and want to eat healthy, drink my water and workout then there are those other days when all I want to do is scarf down a dozen donuts and a bag of chips?

If I could answer that I suppose I'd be rich.

"Any man can make mistakes, but only an idiot persists in his error."  -Cicero

I don't want to be an idiot today. How about you?

Self-Control

I am still here. Feeling a wee bit off track.

It was those dang donuts.


Seriously...it was.

Weighed in at the gym today. I stayed the same. Really grateful for that in all honesty. My mind has been on so many other things...this weight loss thing has taken a back seat.

However, I must get back on track.

It is the best place for me to be;)

"Without discipline, there's no life at all." -Katherine Hepburn

Well, said Miss Kate.


How is your week?

Battle Lost: Round Two

So, here I was bragging about how I beat the donut...even though it kept "speaking" to me...I thought I had won.

Wrong.

You see, after having the longest conversation of my life with myself...the donut finally won. I gave in. 

After the movie, after everyone else was asleep, I snuck into our kitchen and just stared at those two, lucious looking glazed donuts. My mouth began to water. My heart raced.

I took a bite.

Then another and another. 

Before I knew it one donut was finished.

I drank a class of water and told myself that was it.

Then, instead of heading back upstairs I gobbled the other one down in seconds.

The donut won.

I lost.

But today is a NEW day.

Lesson learned?

I can't have donuts in my house EVER!!!

“If you get up one more time than you fall you will make it through.” Chinese Proverb

Battle Won

So, here's the conversation I've been having with myself most of the day....

"Mmmmmmm, those donuts sure do look good."

"Yes, they do, but you don't need one."

"Oh, just one...it's Friday after all."

{i eat one}

"Oh, my that was the best glazed donut I've ever had. I should have another one!!"

"No! One is enough. You won't blow it as long as you keep it to ONE!!"

{a few hours pass...I am cleaning house and there, on the counter are the donuts}

"I have been working so hard this afternoon. I deserve another donut. They look soooo good. And they are soooooo doughy and chewy and sweet...."

"Think about how you want to look in your clothes this summer."


"Oh, I know. I want to look nice but it's Friday. A laid back day."

"But if you eat that donut you will disappoint yourself. You have been doing so good!!"

"True, but I don't weigh until Wednesday...I can lose 2 pounds by then."

"Drink water, have an apple...just DO NOT eat that donut!!!"

"Oh, alright...you win! I think I'll go blog about it!"

So, that's the way it was today.

Donut: Loser
Me: Winner

What are you winning at today?

I am NOT/I AM

Oh, things they are a changin"...I am beginning to get that truly great feeling one gets when they KNOW they are on the verge of something great. Know what I'm talking about?

Health is the thing that makes you feel that now is the best time of the year. Franklin P. Adams

I am not turning to food to make me happy.

I am not turning to food because I am bored.

I am not turning to food  because I'm sad, mad, tired, etc.

I am not turning to food  because it sounds good.

I am not dreaming of food and looking forward to my next meal just because I get to eat.

I am eating when I'm hungry.

I am putting my fork down between bites.

I am chewing my food.

I am enjoying the taste of food.

I am eating lots of fruit and veggies.

I am exercising.

I am drinking more and more water.

**Please know that I have been here many times before...and that is usually when I blow it. So I am just so happy to be here...but have a LONG way to go!!!:)

"Nothing splendid has ever been achieved except by those who dared to believe that something inside of them was superior to circumstance."  -Bruce Barton

Burning Calories!

Whew. feeling overwhelmed today!! Our house needs me...lots to pick up, laundry and cleaning. So today I am off the computer. No more blogging today, no FB...just listening to my 80's and cleaning!! I should burn lots of calories today:)

Speaking of calories...I enjoyed a wonderful meal last night...too many points I 'm sure plus there was cheesecake. What was different about this meal though was how I ate it. I savored every bite. I put down my fork between bites and I didn't finish my plate. It was a food breakthrough...

Oh and I don't feel guilty...

"Many things which cannot be overcome when they are together, yield themselves up when taken little by little."  -Plutarch

Do you indulge a bit on the weekends? How do you feel when you do?

I am losing and a give away!!

Every Wednesday Dave and I weigh in at our local gym as a part of the Biggest Loser program we are participating in. I am very happy to tell you I am down 2 pounds!! Whooo Hooo!! And I know it is because I am counting my points and making sure to add at least 45 minutes of cardio to my day.

Wanted to share a yummy breakfast or snack idea with you I found on Weight Watchers and love so much...

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

1 cup oatmeal
1 apple chopped {I use Golden Delicious}
1 TBSP brown sugar
Cinnamon to taste

Mix everything in a big bowl and enjoy!

Points Value:4

This keeps me energized as well as satisfies my sweet tooth. So good:)

Talk about feeling good...YOU could be a WINNER!! My bloggy friend Darla over at  My Winning Year is giving away a fantastic and super motivational book by one of my fave authors Cheryl Richardson. Stop by for your chance to win!! Click here.

"The surest way not to fail is to determine to succeed." -Richard B. Sheridan

What about you? Will you succeed or will you fail?

Making Better Choices

Everyday I am getting stronger.
I am making better choices.
I am eating when I'm truly hungry...not just kinda hungry and not just because it sounds good.
I am keeping busy doing what I love...writing, creating and lifting others up.
I am happy.

"If we all did the things we are capable of, we would astound ourselves."  -Thomas Edison

What can you do that would astound you?

Opportunity

I am on Week 2 of WW. I need to really get to know the site this week...print off some recipes, read a few success stories and join a challenge or two. I KNOW this is gonna work...I had the best week I've had in weeks because I was watching my points. Feels so good:)

"Life's ups and downs

provide windows of opportunity to 

determine your values

and goals. Think of using

all obstacles as stepping stones

to build the life you want." 

-Marsha Sinetar

What is working for you right now?

The right choice

Weight Watchers is just GREAT! It is really helping me

stay on track. So happy I took the plunge:) Not only have I been eating well 

but my workouts are getting stronger. Rather than just "winging" it

at the gym I have a plan to sweat at least 45 minutes each time I go. There is this really

awesome machine {it is kind of like an elliptical but better}

I found a few weeks ago...it is crazy how much I'm enjoying it!!!

Today I went a bit overboard on my

WW points...but that's okay...I had plenty of extra points they give you each week 

so just used those. My daughter and I took my Mom to our fave Mexican place

and even though I ate slowly and enjoyed every bite

...I'm sure it was still too much!

 I feel like I am on the right path...at long last.

"When all else is lost, the future still remains."  - Christian Bovee

How are you doing this week?

Today...

Today I am feeling like I can do this weight loss thing.
Today I am feeling strong and in control.
Today is a busy one...lots of art projects to catch up on...can't wait to head to my art "cave" for a few hours.

"If you observe a really happy man, 

you will find...that he is happy in 

the course of living life twenty-four

crowded hours of each day."

-W. Beran Wolfe


How are you feeling today? What can you do to make it a great day?

I'm a Follower

After much deliberation I have decided to join Weight Watchers on-line. Yesterday I took the plunge and signed up for 3 months. I get 29 Points Plus a day which kept me full most of the day. The thing I really love about the new WW is the fact that fruits and veggies are zero points.

"Begin at the beginning," the King said, gravely, "and go till you come to the end; then stop."  -Lewis Carroll

That's what I'm doing by joining WW again. I am beginning with the basics...learning how to eat the right quanity of food, be satisfied and still lose weight. I am really excited about this choice I've made:)

Have you made any choices you are proud of lately?

Still Here

Our internet was down nearly a week...but it's back on-YIPEE!! New post soon:)

Enough of the Gym Already!

After spending 40 minutes on the ellipitical and bike I know for a fact I despise the gym. There is nothing I like about it. Nothing.

That's okay...very soon Spring will be here and I'll be outside.

Enjoying the wind on my face...
The smell of fresh flowers and grass...
Listening to the birds sing...
Feeling the warmth of the sun...
I will be outside, walking fast, pumping my arms, sweating, smiling....feeling alive.



Goethe-

Take care of your body with steadfast fidelity. The soul must see through these eyes alone, and if they are dim, the whole world is clouded.

Do you prefer gym workouts or being outside for your workouts?

Happy Heart Day

So I got on the scale today. It looks like I have lost a pound! I am sooo very happy about this.

It seems when I shift my attitude I notice a change in my weight. When I'm all anxious and down on myself the scale doesn't budge or goes up. When I'm calm and in control...it almost always goes down. Funny how that works;)

Franklin P. Adams
"Health is the thing that makes you feel that now is the best time of the year."

 What kinds of things do you notice when you are calm and in control?

It has always been up to me

As the days past I feel a change in my attitude. I am not turning to food for everything I feel...rather enjoying the moment...food free.

Just for today I will enjoy the peace that Sundays bring. I will nourish my body with wholesome foods.

"When we are no longer able to change a situation...we are challenged to change ourselves."  -Victor Frankl

Maybe that's what the problem has been all along. I had been so focused on changing the situation when it was ME that had to change. There will always be dinners out, celebrations that revolve around food, church potlucks, family reunions, BBQ's, etc. It's ME that has to change.

It's up to me.

"To change one's life; 
Start immediately.
Do it flamboyantly.
No exceptions."
William James

I won't stop

"Never stop. One always stops as soon as something is about to happen."  -Peter Brook

For today I resolve not to stop.
I won't quit.
I won't give in to that cupcake or cookie or chips and dip.
I will eat fruits
and vegetables
and drink my water.
I will smile
and say "No, thank you." to the junk
and "Yes, please." to the good.
For today I will not stop
because I know something good is just around the corner.

Tell me what will you do today?

Just for Now

Just for now I have decided to love myself. I am dressing like I'm already at goal weight, smiling like I am already at goal weight and eating like I'm already at goal weight.

Just for now I am gonna be happy in my own skin.



"You can promote your healing by your thinking."  -James E. Sweeney

What can you do just for now to love yourself into wellness?
 

I Did it Anyway...

Oh, I love it when my attitude starts changing for the better. And while I have a few grumpies left in me...I can feel myself becoming more and more positive about my weight loss again. Every time this happens it's never because of some weight loss book or new exercise routine. No, it's always because I have taken the time to remember those things I have accomplished in my life that changed my life. 

"Great works are performed not by strength, but by perseverance."  -Samuel Johnson

Over on my other blog..."Words of Me Project" I wrote a  post about all the things I have "done anyway". Please click here to read. I realized after writing out 8 Truths about what I have done right in my life that the only thing holding me back from losing this weight is...me.

"Be like a postage stamp-stick to one thing until you get there."  -Josh Billings

I guess that's what I've been doing all along...trying my best most days, falling down others...but always trying to "stick to it until I get there".

What is one Truth in your life, that despite the odds...despite what others told you...you did anway?

New Perspective

Wow! That last post was a downer for sure. And while I am still feeling down I know that I am being waaaay too hard on myself.

Soooo, today is a new day. Today I logged in 3 miles at the gym. I have eaten a healthy breakfast and snack, counted my calories and am ready for  new day to begin.

When the world says, "Give up,"
Hope whispers, "Try it one more time."
~Author Unknown

What's wrong with me?!?!?!

I am feeling a bit down at the moment. It seems like I'm getting nowhere fast with my weight loss. I made it to the gym this morning and walked 4 miles. So far I have logged 9 miles for February. With all those snow days last week I got really off track. *sigh*. I swear I make excuses for everything when it comes to my weight.

So while I'm feeling bad about my fitness journey my husband and son are feeling great. You should see Dave...his clothes just hang on him. I truly am happy for him, but a bit jealous, too. It seems like I've done this same thing at least 1,000 times. Oh, let's be honest. I have.That's the problem. And here I am in the same exact place I was a year ago, 2 years ago, 10 years ago...trying to get a grip on food.

UGH!! Food!!!

I hate food!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It is a process.

I can do this.

I can.

I will.


What are you struggling with at the moment? Please share!

Gym Time

Finally got to the gym this morning!! WONDERFUL:) I put in 5 miles on the bike and elliptical. Nice sweat and a chance to chat with a friend. Great morning.

My wonderful husband and I weighed in yesterday. I have lost another pound and Dave lost 3!! Whoo Hoo. I am gonna reach my goal of losing 6 pounds by end of February...and surpass {i hope}.

I went a bit crazy with the home made bread after my weigh in yesterday. Self control is a BIG issue for me!!!

What about you? How do you control binge eating? What foods trigger a binge? Mine are chips, dip, salsas, sweets and home made bread!!!!

Try,Try Again

Life is becoming pretty good over here in my little part of the world. My wonderful husband who has lost over 30  pounds {whoo hoo!!} is being so patient and
helping me on my journey. Jackson {my 16 year old} is, too. He is down from 200 pounds to 163!! So proud of my men!!!

Last week I was feeling bad about me. After I wrote that negative post and received all your warm, positive comments I decided I needed to do one thing...

I mean, I realized I hadn't been doing a very good job of that. On Saturday my sweet husband actually pointed that out.

"Honny, I love you and I know you can do this but you gotta try. You gotta be positive."

He was so right.

So, since Saturday I have been trying. And it's working.


“You may be disappointed if you fail, but you are doomed if you don't try.”

 Beverly Sills quotes ( . b.1929)

<font size="5"><i>"</i></font><blockquote><a href="http://www.quotecosmos.com/quotes/40046/view">Trying is a part of failing. If you are afraid to fail then you're afraid to try..</a></blockquote><br> <a href="http://www.quotecosmos.com/authors/1809/Mrs._Cunningham">Cunningham, Mrs.</a><br> Quote from <a href="http://quotecosmos.com">Quote Cosmos</a>

The Power of Lists

As you can tell from previous posts I get overwhelmed pretty easy. Without the support of my family and friends I am quite certain I would be a puddle of goo. Something that helps me almost as well are my lists. Oh how I love lists!!

I have lists for....

*blog posts ideas
*art projects
*healthy foods
*workouts I do
*meals
*my favorite movies  and ones I want to see
and of course I have my "Daily To-Do" list.

These lists give me power. They clear my head and make me feel less anxious. Lists allow me to focus my energies on the task at hand rather than constantly running what it is I need to do through my head over and over again. It's amazing how something so easy can have such an impact on my day.

Last night I sat down and created 4 lists for my week...I feel better already! I know what posts I'm gonna write, what healthy meals I'm preparing and what my family and I have to do this week. It's liberating!

If you don't make lists or haven't for awhile I encourage you to do so today. I am a firm believer that my lists help tremendously with my weight loss!

I would love to hear your thoughts on this! Do you make lists? Do they help you have a healthier week?

If you fall down get back up {ok}

I am having one of those days. You know...where I keep telling myself everything that's wrong with me. This is the dialog that keeps going over and over in my head this morning...

"You can't get it together." "What's wrong with you? You can't wear any of your clothes and look nice!" "Everyone else can lose weight. You just aren't strong enough." "Loser!!!"

Ugh! This kind of talks brings me down....


I'm taking this class called "Soul Restoration". One of the main points of the class is the importance of telling the TRUTH to ourselves. Now I know that everything I've been telling myself is false. I know that. But it's so easy to fall into this trap isn't it? Why is it so hard to give ourselves a pat on the back and so easy for us to be mean and cruel?

We are supposed to weigh at Noon today for our Biggest Loser Challenge at the gym. I know my husband has a loss...a pretty good one. But me? Maybe another pound...maybe. I am sooo proud and happy for Dave yet frustrated. He eats so differently than me yet continues to melt away. Yes, I am frustrated.

I think what makes me the maddest is that I DID lose 15 pounds last spring. I was on the top of the world...then I ate my way back. Same old story. 

I'm not giving up. No, that's not my style. Instead I will make a few new goals for the week to re-energize me and get me back on the path.

What do you do when you struggle?

Getting Stronger

You know when you first start something and it's hard to get in the groove? You're waking up earlier, not eating as much, working out, trying not to snack...whatever the case may be....it's just all different. And sometimes different is not good. I am a creature of habit after all.

But yesterday I noticed something...a shift in the way I'm thinking, the way I'm eating, the way I'm exercising.

And it's all GOOD.

Very, very good.

My favorite snack at the moment!

I'm not so hungry. I'm not craving sweets as much. 

 I'm feeling lighter, happier and more confident. I am choosing foods like this...fresh blueberries and bananas mixed with plain greek yogurt, drizzled with honey and just a sprinkle of unsalted sunflower seeds. Yum-o!






Yesterday at the gym something amazing happened. I ran and I ran. And I ran some more! This is soooo good. It feels sooo good. I mean I used to be a runner. Like one of those obsessed runners. And I loved it. I craved it. It always lifted my spirits.

That's how my run was yesterday. It lifted me up. I was actually smiling on the treadmill...floating and smiling and sweating. It was the grandest thing I have felt in a long time.

I did it again today.

Life is good:)


What healthy passion did you used to have that would feel so good to start again?

My Meal in Photos {a first}

So the past year as I cruised through Blogland I noticed a trend...people taking photos of what they ate at each meal. So many commented that this really kept what they ate in check. But like so many things in my life this idea got shoved to the backburner until yesterday.

Yesterday I had my camera at every meal and before eating I lovingly arranged my food to make it look as appetizing as possible for you-LOL! I felt like one of those food magazine photographers. I'm pretty sure my family thinks I'm half nuts. My husband was like..."Ummm, honny....what is it you're doing exactly?" But then of course as soon as I mentioned "it's for my blog!" he just grinned, shook his head and went back to watching the Stock reports. He knows how passionate I am about my blogs:)

So here ya' go...A Day in My FOOD Life!!  I started my day with the usual...I LOVE toast and peanut butter. It just fills me up and keeps me satisfied for hours. During my marathon days this was the meal that kept me going. These days instead of heavy, calorie laden bread I use these little babies. So good! And the best part is they are only 80 calories!! Whenever I'm craving a hamburger....I use these, too.

Here's my 1 tsp. peanut butter with 1 tablespoon strawberry jam and a cup of Perro with ff cream. In case you are wondering what Perro is...it's a barley drink that tastes like instant coffee. I quit drinking coffee nearly 5 years ago. This has been a delicious substitute!

 After working in my art space and cleaning most of the morning I was hungry! I had 2 cups of leftover chicken noodle soup, 2 baby clementines and water with lemon.

Back to cleaning...I was obsessed yesterday and got so much done! I was starving  mid afternoon. I fixed one serving of honey wheat pretzels and 1 tablespoon peanut butter along with this calorie free drink {i don't eat the berries}seltzer and frozen berries.

By

Back to more cleaning....I finally finished up around 4:00, sat for a minute and had one clementine and 3 wheat crackers. Did you know that a delicious, sweet Clementine is just 35 calories? Dinner was at 6;30...

Salad, 1 cup pasta, 1/2 cup ground beef and a half a cup sauce with 1 tablespoon dry parm on top. I am not a big pasta person...too high in calories for me. But this hit the spot last night!

During American Idol I munched on 1 cup of corn chex and a 25 calorie cup of hot cocoa sprinkled with cinnamon.

By the end of the day I had consumer approx. 1600 calories. I was very happy with that.

I was surprised at what I learned by taking these photos....

1. By taking a photo of what I ate it made me slow down. I mean I had to get everything ready then set it up to take a photo. It was great!

2. I don't eat as much as I think I do during the day when I'm having a "good" eating day.

3. I need to fill my plate with more veggies!

4. This was fun and something I will continue to do:)

What about you...have you done this? Does it help when you take photos of what you eat? Why not give it a try this weekend?

One Pound

My husband and I are participating in Maryville's Biggest Loser Challenge. Yesterday, after one week on our plan I lost one pound.

Yep, just one.

Really? Just ONE?!


I was disappointed. 

But then, last night I read in a weight loss magazine that it's perfectly normal and healthy to lose just one to tw pounds a week. I'm pretty sure I already knew that but it was pretty sweet to read. One pound doesn't seem like a lot...I mean those people on the Biggest Loser? WOW! One guy lost 41 pounds in ONE week!! That's crazy...and pretty unrealistic for us in the real world. I mean does anybody out here have the time to spend 8 hours on a treadmill? No.

So I am down one pound. 

I have 25 to go to my goal. 

Which brings me to another point.

It's time to break this weight loss goal of mine into baby steps.

Yep. Teeny tiny mini goals.

While I'm at it I think it would be fun

to throw in a few rewards for reaching my tiny milestones.

Anything to help me reach my goals right?:)

Today is a snow day here. I am loving it! No running the kids around today. We are all stuck here which rocks! On my agenda? Finishing up my art room. I am going through my supplies and re-organizing. Feels so good. When that's done {plus more than a few loads of laundry} thought I'd see if the kids wanted to play our new Wii. Get some activity in.

One more thing...today I start taking photos of all my meals. This has been a goal of mine for quite some time...look for those photos in tomorrows post.


How are you doing? What are your thoughts on losing just one pound? How does that make you feel?

Skinny Me's first Award!

Sooo many feelings, too much food mixed in with lots of creative thinking last week. Oh my! I am taking an amazing class from the very talented Melody Ross called "Soul Restoration". Not only are we doing some fabulous art but we are baring our souls in our Art Journals. Girls,  I think by the end of the class {5 weeks from now} I just may have figured this whole eating thing out!

Before I get to my most amazing AWARD I gotta tell you about an app that is changing my life...seriously! It's called "Calorie Counter" by FatSecret. I downloaded it to my Blackberry Sunday and love it! Soooo easy to keep track of what I'm eating and the calories I'm burning. Along with every food you can think of there are dozens and dozens of restaurants listed. Did you know that my favorite meal at AppleBee's has over 2,000 calories in it??!! What is it? Their Crispy Orange Chicken Bowl!! Okay, I am never, ever getting that again. Sheesh!

If you have a Blackberry or one of those Ipod thingys {i am so bad with this} try and find this app. It is my miracle of the week!

Okay...on to my AWARD! Sweet Karen over at "Waisting Time" has given "Skinny Me" it's very first Blog Award! Thank you, Karen...made my day:) I need to tell you 7 things about myself then pass on the love. So much fun!

7 Things about ME;)

I am a HUGE "Twilight" fan. Read all the books, have seen each movie many times and am not afraid to say that Edward makes me swoon. This is a fun thing my daughter and I share.

I have ran 2 marathons and finished one sprint trialthon {all in my 30's}

I have a degree in radio/tv. I was a DJ for years and wrote a weekly column for our town's paper for 5 years.

I LOVE rollercoasters!!! Especially the big steel ones where your feet dangle. Soooo fun!

I own almost every Stephen King book and am currently reading "Under the Dome".

I spend most my days with my sweet little Mini Pom Gizmo...

I am married to the love of my life, Dave!! He truly is the sweetest man on the planet:)

Alright...now to pass the love...

Dance, Love, Dine


Finding Radiance

Wanna Be Balanced Mom

Destination Unknown

From Chaos Comes Happiness

There ya' go. Please go read these blogs, ladies. I read soooo many...these are a few I truly enjoy:)

Let me know how your week is going. I am eating better, working out and really focusing on my hunger. If I'm not hungry...it doesn't go in my mouth. Let me know how you're doing!!

Have a wonderful day!!

One Habit at a Time

It's been nearly 3 weeks now and I've just had 3 diet sodas. AMAZING! I am not having near the headaches and my craving for sweets is diminishing. Drinking lots of water with lemon and seltzer water with frozen berries. Yum.

Another habit I am creating is washing my face nightly. I have never been good at this but I told myself that this year I would...and I am.

So, these two new habits I'm working on and being relatively successful at is giving me hope {and power} that THIS will be the year the weight is lost...for good.

I am on the right path.

Understand that the right to choose your own path is a sacred privilege. Use it. Dwell in possibility.
Oprah Winfrey

What good habits are you creating this year?

Believe in YOU

image from Bing.com

I used to BELIEVE in myself. I used to train and run marathons. I used to do things waaaay out of my comfort zone.

Me on the left in Denver, Colorado at my first Triathlon

Where did that part of me go? I'm not sure.
But I tell you right now...as sure as I live and breathe...
I am gonna BELIEVE in me again....

How about you?

The 7 Secrets of Slim People

I read something profound last night...

"You were born a naturally slim eater. It's your birhright...claim it."  -The 7 Secrets of Slim People

Really? I was born a slim eater? Hmmmmm, I can't remember a time when food wasn't an issue with me. Seriously sad, right?

According to the book the naturally slim people eat this way...

*Only when they are physically hungry.
*They eat what they most are hungry for.
* They stop when there bodies are satisfied {comfortable or not hungry anymore} rather than when they are full.
*They give their food their conscious attention when they eat.
*They notice how their bodies feel during and after eating.
*They have no "good" or "bad" foods. All foods are to be enjoyed. {now there's a concept, huh?}
*They don't stuff uncomfortable feelings under food.

How in the heck did these people learn this? And more importantly why don't I eat this way? What happened to me to get me here with this twisted way I eat now? I mean come on....one day "I'm good"...one day "bad". One day I starve myself...the next day I eat clean. I think there have been a few days out of 44 years I have eaten the "natural slim" way.

According to the book the answer is simple....

"Recover you natural relationship with food."

Have I EVER had a natural relationship with food? Let's see...NO. Food has always been a reward, a treat, a way to not feel lonely, to not feel pain, to feel happy, to feel good, to feel loved and wanted. Oh, my friends...my food issues are deep. Yes they are. I could tell you food stories that would have tears running down your cheeks and into your shoes. I won't go into the details today.

What I will do is share my experiment with you. As the book suggests I am eating whatever I want today. The catch is I have to be truly hungry. Not starving...but hungry. You know when your tummy growls or all you can do is think about food due to hunger {not emotions or because your bored or it sounds good}. You eat because your body is telling you to. Then you stop just right when you are full. Your satisfied but not stuffed. Your pants don't feel tight. You don't feel sick. You just feel happy that hunger has gone away.

So far today here is what I've eaten and when. Oh, and just so you know I have only eaten when I am truly hungry!!

7:20 AM 1/2 roll with peanut butter, one Acttivia yogurt smoothie
9:30 AM 1 cup rice chex cereal dry
11:00 AM 4 wheat crackers with 1 serving chedder cheese
1:25 PM 1 banana

So there ya' go. I really listening to my body today. Giving it truly what it wants when it wants. I am still drinking lots of water and no soda {i did have one yesterday though...just 12 ounces}.

As I continue with this I'll share more of the book as well as my progress and ideas.

What are you eating these days? Please share!!