WHO do you choose today...

Feeling Better

2011-01-20T08:22:00.003-06:00

It is really amazing how your really are what you eat. Now that I've been eating healthy for a week and only eating good things the "old me" enjoyed, I feel like I have a much clearer head, more energy and just an overall better mindset.

I haven't been counting points this week, but back to 3 small meals, 2 snacks...all clean eating/non-processed foods. I still have to deal with the coffee vice...but I know I will be able to once again rid my life of it and artificial sweeteners.

I look forward to Monday my official weigh in day...I've already peaked at the scale this week and I think I'm in for a nice number. It's amazing the fast damage eating a tub of cookie a day can do. Just alone stopping that horrible habit I'm saving myself a whooping 3,360 calories a day!

Honesty

2011-01-17T09:12:00.004-06:00

Honesty is a big word for me this year....

I have been in a rut and have put on far too much weight. I know where it is coming from...there have been alot of emotional stresses in my world and I regressed to old bad comfortable habits.

Yesterday was a new day, I bought all my old favorites from when I was in a far better place. I am excited to resume my eating plan back when I was happier and mentally stable.

I vow to be a FAR BETTER me this year...this is no resolution, this is a lifestyle.

Most Current Photo of Me

as you can see - it's all over my face. I'm not one of those who can just send head shot & hide their gains. My face widens & my cheeks get bigger than ever. I want my thin(er) face back.

I'm a slacker...

2010-11-23T22:18:00.003-06:00

Wow - months have pasted and I have completely lost my way. Need to get back to me eating healthy ASAP. I have gained 30lbs after loosening up too much. I feel trapped in this body again - not able to do things I loved just a few short months ago. I must make this change forever...

This is my most recent photo. A head shot taken for my position as an instructor at a local scrapbooking store. Not huge by any means...but certainly not that thin neck and collarbones I'd gown to love so much. This blog is for me to be honest and I plan to be.

I'm starting over tomorrow morning...I have to to live the life I so desperatly need to live

Hum Drum

2010-09-24T01:21:00.004-05:00

Hey, just back to the hum-drum days of the school year. Both kids gone all day, sometimes all night with friends or activities. I'm doing ok. I gained about 10 over the summer...but I've leveled out and maintained since that. I place to get back and "hit it hard" on eating right. I've done much better this week.

I was tempted by a few treats...

my sweet daughters brought me cupcakes for my birthday today. No worries I only had one and they are gone, so no leftover temptations!

Dark Days

2010-07-27T14:18:00.002-05:00

I haven't posted in quite awhile, got into a tail spin (not food...it was depression).
I had to crash and burn before I could see the light and find me direction for my life.
God is good, but he had to completely tear me down for me to listen - I'm a hard head.

FOOD is good. I am on track - I did stray for a bit, but no major gain and it is coming off well now. Thanks to all of you!

Lazy Summer Days

2010-06-19T00:48:00.003-05:00

Summer is here...my kids are out of school.

Eating is still pretty good. Most days are spent at the local water park or Six Flags.

I'm not obsessing about the gym or water aerobics...I'm getting alot of daily exercise.

My only goal for summer is to maintain...and not gain.

I will get busy again in August and shed the last 30lbs.

Time is short...I'm enjoying my kids for the next 6 weeks!

May Revisited

2010-06-01T10:10:00.003-05:00

May was a great month and a crummy month!

* May 4th I hit 100 lbs. lost....I did not lose anything more the rest of the month.

* I started and quit a job.

*Struggled to control my love for sugar...several occasions of eating some candy while living a sugar free lifestyle. Like a non-smoker just randomly going and getting a pack of cigarettes and smoking every.single.one!!!

*Strayed from my flawless exercise routine...and now struggle to get my ass back there!

JUNE - will be much better, because I CHOOSE for it to me. No more of this floundering crap!

Wallowing

2010-05-17T18:04:00.003-05:00

Yup, that is exactly what I'm doing.
My brain is on overload, life is messy and I feel out of control...not my food or exercie.. just my mind and life.
I took a part time job, started last week - hate it, don't need it, but feel bad to quit. Like a failure.

My Dr has been messing with my meds. She changed me to something new (after 4yrs) I thought it was ok - my family informed me it was NOT. So she changed me again and it's not getting better...ugh!

I made a huge mistake on some bills...thought the due date was the 19th, turns out it was the 16th. 21 months later I get a notice that we owe $747.00 in late fees...REALLY? WTF? Make me even feel worse for wanting to quit the dam'd job, like I should hold out until I personally earn the $747...since it was MY fault.

Oh the list goes on...

The photo says it all

2010-05-10T12:11:00.002-05:00

ONE year...FIVE days

2010-05-08T08:48:00.002-05:00

YUP...that is how long it took me to lose 100 POUNDS!!!!

I landed on that beautiful number this morning and couldn't be happier!I've got about 30 lbs to go...but that will be here soon enough!

I'll be back with pictures of me in my milestone making shirt by the end of the day!

Changing everyday

2010-05-07T07:50:00.002-05:00

April was a wash for me...I didn't lose anything, but didn't gain either.
This morning I was down 1 pound - WOOHOO! but that still leaves me 1 pound from that 100 mark milestone! I'm hoping to hit it soon!

I didn't lose control in April it was just the month of non-stop birthdays. I did eat a small piece (or 2) of each of the 5 cakes. I could be blaming the cakes, but I feel that lead to the scale to stop moving. It also derailed my "sugar free" lifestyle for a few weeks - but I sent all the crap out of the house and got serious again.

I did learn that after several months of being sugar free - now eating sugar makes me ill. Seriously my stomach hurts, I feel like I'm going to throw up and every time ended up in bed feeling miserable. (I am afraid I may love misery - cause I still ate more cake the next go round)

I'm looking forward to wearing that "100 pounds lost" t-shirt soon...so no monkey business here.

Today I have a job interview. I haven't worked in over 10years...so this may be a bit odd for me. It would only be part time, but I thought it would be something productive to do (other that sit on the computer most days) and the extra money could be handy too.

Just an update

2010-04-22T21:05:00.002-05:00

All is well...I'm still going strong. Kinda at a plateu on my loss...hanging at 98lbs lost and it's driving me insane. The past 3 weeks have been insane!

Week#1 my husband was on vacation, I only made it to the gym 2 days, no water aerobics because I got the tattoo.

Week#2 12yr old daughters birthday, spent the week making invitations for a party, making cupcake pops for her classmates, still now water aerobics because the new tattoo and dealing with other crazy abnormal events - such as oldest daughter had some medical issues.

Week#3 (this week)
Monday - Nascar races rained out all weekend so they ran both races monday so missed water aerobics.
Missed the gym tuesday to support a close friend in moving out her grandfather furnature and clothing from the nursing home (he passed Sunday night unexspectedly)
Wed did make water class...so good to be back!
Thursday hit the gym long and hard - feels like I'm a newbie all over again, another dr visit for oldest daughter - this time a surgeon, yup - gonnahave to do surgery after school gets out for the summer.
Tomorrow will be long - but I will be back to water class, and be shopping for a birthday party saturday among other chores!

Big Suprise

2010-04-06T23:44:00.003-05:00

Well as promised and mentioned Monday, I went and had some fun. My dear husband is on vacation this week and I've been wanting a new tattoo for awhile now. So as a reward of sorts, he paid for me to get this one...that is the beginning of many to come.

The plan is to eventually be a sleeve with an underwater theme. I will add a manatee, a sea turtle, sea horse, some fish and end at my wrist with coral and rocks.

This was not my first (actually was my 4th) but none are this big. I sat for 3hours for this...the others will be smaller. It was alot of fun and a get day!

Easter Fun

2010-04-05T06:31:00.003-05:00

Yesterday our family celebrated Easter in a different way than previous years. It didn't involve candy or eggs, no Easter hams with all the fixins. We spent the day at a local amusement park, Six Flags Over Texas. Arriving when they opened at 11am and leaving when they closed at 7pm...there was ALOT of walking involved. I would have NEVER been able to do any of this 97lbs ago! Returning to the world of amusement parks was a big goal and fun reward along my weight loss journey. No long afraid to visit one for fear something would not buckle on me.

Today will be an even BIGGER celebration in a much different way. I will not tell what just yet, but will be posting photos later!

Photo update

2010-03-27T18:56:00.003-05:00

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but today's picture kinda leaves me speechless. We were up early today, off the meet my brother and his family for lunch, so I asked my daughter to take a new picture for me. My mind still hasn't caught up with the mirror..but hopefully one day it will.

The weather is beautiful here in Texas today. I had a great workout at the gym today and we are heading to Six Flags tomorrow morning for some fun! Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

I can see the light

2010-03-26T08:42:00.002-05:00

This morning I ordered my celebratory shirt...

I'm only 3 pounds away...and can't wait to wear that baby on the big day!

A new week

2010-03-22T07:49:00.004-05:00

I totally enjoyed the kids being home for spring break last week, but I am equally excited for them to return to school this morning. I need to get back into my routine to knock these last pounds off.

I had a great workout yesterday and I can certainly feel it this morning. My sweet husband joined me at the gym to show me some new free weight exercises to "beef up" my workout. I'm returning to water aerobics this morning after a week gone (bad Angie).

Eating has been pretty good...we ate pizza over the weekend (not my choice) I felt like I was cheated! Paying $35 for a pizza meal with my family and I didn't even want to eat the junk! They did surprisingly enough have vegetable soup on the salad bar - that was a nice treat. (hopefully it was loaded with too much fat)

I am still in a state of shock over the loss of fellow blogger Bethany McDonald. I never met her, but thought of her as a friend. When I read the news of her passing (thank you for someone posting that) I felt as if I'd lost a friend. We knew each others pain and struggles...we fought the same fight...we struggled with the same obstacles. I am ever so grateful to have known her through her words on her blog...to have stared in her triumphs and short-comings. She was a beautiful soul and will be missed by all she touched in this life.

Fun in the Sun

2010-03-16T14:58:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I took my girls to Six Flags Over Texas. I hadn't been in 10years. I grew up just a few miles from the place and went alot through my childhood. Somehow as I gained weight, I went less...walking and standing was too much trouble.

We stayed for 7hours yesterday - rode 7 rides - stood in line to get our season pass photos taken & had a picnic lunch too. It was a good day - we pack snacks and ate within my calorie/point budget and didn't spend one dime (since we bought Combo Season passes in advance for 6flags and hurricane harbor, plus the parking pass). It should be a fun summer for the girls and me. I feel kinda guilty that Chris will be working and missing the fun, but he said it was ok and will join us a few times on the weekends.

Today I went to the doctor for the results of some recent blood work. She was just gushing over me for loosing weight. I'm so close to that 100...I just can't wait! My blood work was awesome she said, my cholesterol was down to 196 (from a high of 244) she said my "bad cholesterol" LDL was at a good level 96 and my "good cholesterol" HDL was low 43 (to eat more fish - mainly salmon) to adjust it. So it looks as if all the numbers are heading in the right direction!

Hope everyone else is enjoying their spring break also...tomorrow we are off the the vet to get our new pup her shots.

Be Safe

2010-03-11T16:02:00.003-06:00

Yesterday one of my favorite blogs was talking about how she made her own coconut butter. I thought I too would give it a try and that is where my day took a drastic turn!

I tried making several batches of it yesterday - the first failed

The second I got my finger stuck in the emulsion blender/stick blender.

Somehow while trying to clear the bottom side I accidentally pushed the button and the blade spun - right into my index finger and got hung up in the bone. LUCKLY my husband works nights and was home asleep. I woke him with quite a fright with the stick blender attached to my hand and he calmly cut the thing off my hand and was able to free my finger after about 30-40minutes. My finger is a horrible mess now, it really got chewed up and I have no feeling in it either.

So the lesson for today is ALWAYS unplug appliances before trying to do anything strange with them. I know that seems like common sense, but I have turned that blender stick over a million times and done the same thing and never had any problems before.

BE care...don't make a stupid mistake like I did. Who knew weight loss and a healthy diet could be so dangerous!?!?

YOU are all YOU have

2010-03-04T12:52:00.006-06:00

I hear so many people recently, whining and complaining about their lack of success, lack of commitment, lack of effort in their diet and exercise. I really don't get it. You can not put your faith in diets, pills, potions, programs, rewards, etc....you can only put your faith in yourself. At the end of each day...that is all you have. Whether you succeed or fail - you only have one person to credit, that face looking back in the mirror.

Think of all the time and energy you could put into a great workout or a healthy meal tonight, rather than sitting around thinking "woe is me", "it was just a little cheat", "it must be water weight", " I think I hit a plateau"...

Take control of yourself & your future....stop wasting your own time and meet those goals.

You CAN do it! We all can. Day after day, making good choices, positive steps in the right direction.

New month

2010-03-02T07:50:00.003-06:00

Hard to believe it's MARCH already!

I did well for February. Met my 5lb loss goal for the month. I wish I would have done better, but since I was sick and entire week, I guess it isn't bad.

I got an awesome heart rate monitor {finally} this weekend. Works great, still learning some of the functions. I hope it's more accurate than the cardio machines at the gym. It shows my calories burned much higher.

This months new goal is to complete the Jillian Michael's 30day shred DVD program. Last night was the first workout. I now know why everyone who has done it - CURSED it!!! It was tougher than I expected, but I completed it (with little modification) It was hard on my damaged knees in some spots and I can't to the jumping to the degree she shows, but we really enjoyed it and my HRM showed I burned 577 calories (not sure if I believe that, but my heart rate was certainly up during all the cardio and most of the strength training).

Sweet Find

2010-02-24T11:43:00.003-06:00

Today was double ad day at my local Sprouts, so I head on down after my morning workout.

I have been sugar free for a week now...and man it is a huge improvement! I happened to walk through the baked good section before checking out. I walk through there every week - but have never bought anything from that area. Today I notice this package of Flourless Blueberry Muffins that are on the sugar free display. What? Is this too good to be true? NOPE...

I picked them up, read through the ingredients list twice (oat bran, unsweetened applesauce, white grape juice, blueberries, egg white, honey, skim milk, baking powder, cinnamon, lecithin, vanilla, nutmeg and salt). So those little babies jumped in my cart and headed home with me. I tasted one for my morning snack and it was so awesome. I can't believe how good they taste!!! Worth every penny of the $5.99 they cost for an occasion treat.

90 and falling!

2010-02-22T21:53:00.003-06:00

SO excited today when I stepped on the scale and FINALLY hit the 90 pound loss mark!!

10months ago I would have never believe I could do it in this amount of time...but it has been quite the journey.

Today is day 6 of sugar free life. No biggie so far. I miss my coffee...but life goes on!

I look forward to hitting that 100 mark soon!

Bread Recipe

2010-02-22T17:13:00.003-06:00

The bread recipe I use I got from Mother Earth News. It is the 5 minutes a day artisan bread.

I made mine whole wheat but their are many variations in the book. The basics of the recipe are covered in the article as well as other tips.

Based on using whole wheat, each loaf is 600 calories, I got 10 slices (8 reg and 2 ends) from my loaf so the calories aren't bad at all - especially considering it's fiber content.

The Master Recipe: Boule
(Artisan Free-Form Loaf) Makes 4 1-pound loaves
3 cups lukewarm water

1 1⁄2 tbsp granulated yeast (1 1⁄2 packets)

1 1⁄2 tbsp coarse kosher or sea salt

6 1⁄2 cups unsifted whole wheat flour

Cornmeal for pizza peel

Mixing and Storing the Dough
1. Heat the water to just a little warmer than body temperature (about 100 degrees Fahrenheit).
2. Add yeast and salt to the water in a 5-quart bowl or, preferably, in a resealable, lidded container (not airtight — use container with gasket or lift a corner). Don’t worry about getting it all to dissolve.
3. Mix in the flour by gently scooping it up, then leveling the top of the measuring cup with a knife; don’t pat down. Mix with a wooden spoon, a high-capacity food processor with dough attachment, or a heavy-duty stand mixer with dough hook, until uniformly moist. Don’t knead! This step is done in a matter of minutes, and yields a wet dough loose enough to conform to the container.
4. Cover loosely. Allow the mixture to rise at room temperature until it begins to collapse (or at least flatten on top), approximately two hours, depending on temperature. Longer rising times, up to about five hours, will not harm the result. You can use a portion of the dough any time after this period. Refrigerated wet dough is less sticky and easier to work with than room-temperature dough. We recommend refrigerating the dough at least three hours before shaping a loaf. And relax! You don’t need to monitor doubling or tripling of volume as in traditional recipes.

5. Prepare a pizza peel by sprinkling it liberally with cornmeal to prevent the loaf from sticking to it when you slide it into the oven.
Sprinkle the surface of the dough with flour, then cut off a 1-pound (grapefruit-sized) piece with a serrated knife. Hold the mass of dough in your hands and add a little more flour as needed so it won’t stick to your hands. Gently stretch the surface of the dough around to the bottom on four “sides,” rotating the ball a quarter-turn as you go, until the bottom is a collection of four bunched ends. Most of the dusting flour will fall off; it doesn’t need to be incorporated. The bottom of the loaf will flatten out during resting and baking.
6. Place the ball on the pizza peel. Let it rest uncovered for about 40 minutes. Depending on the dough’s age, you may see little rise during this period; more rising will occur during baking.
7. Twenty minutes before baking, preheat oven to 450 degrees with a baking stone on the middle rack. Place an empty broiler tray for holding water on another shelf.
8. Dust the top of the loaf liberally with flour, which will allow the slashing, serrated knife to pass without sticking. Slash a 1⁄4-inch-deep cross, scallop or tick-tack-toe pattern into the top. (This helps the bread expand during baking.)
9. Slide the loaf off the pizza peel and onto the baking stone. Quickly but carefully pour about a cup of hot water into the broiler tray and close the oven door to trap the steam. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the crust is browned and firm to the touch. With wet dough, there’s little risk of drying out the interior, despite the dark crust. When you remove the loaf from the oven, it will audibly crackle, or “sing,” when initially exposed to room temperature air. Allow to cool completely, preferably on a wire rack, for best flavor, texture and slicing. The perfect crust may initially soften, but will firm up again when cooled.
10. Refrigerate the remaining dough in your lidded (not airtight) container and use it over the next two weeks: You’ll find that even one day’s storage improves the flavor and texture of your bread. This maturation continues over the two-week period. Cut off and shape loaves as you need them. The dough can also be frozen in 1-pound portions in an airtight container and defrosted overnight in the refrigerator prior to baking day

Sugar Free

2010-02-20T16:37:00.002-06:00

This week my main focus has been to rid the last few items in my diet of sugar. Sadly I said goodbye to my friend {decaf} Coffee on Monday. Mainly because I don't enjoy it without sweetener and secondly I don't think it add anything to my health.

Last night I made up my first batch of 5-minute a day Artisan Bread! I baked one loaf this morning and it turned out beautiful! I tried a little end with some organic peanut butter and wow was that a treat! SO GOOD! Baking my own whole wheat, sugar free bread was something I'd been wanting to start for quite some time, I'm glad I tackled it last night!

I ordered a new swimsuit this week {for my water aerobics classes}. It arrive yesterday and I tried it on..LOVE IT. My 11yr old daughter told me I looked hot..LOL - KIDS!

Hope you are all having a good weekend - enjoy - see you Monday!

Glad to feel GOOD

2010-02-15T10:59:00.003-06:00

Finally feeling back to my old self this morning. I went to my water aerobics class...It had been a week since I'd worked out. I just hate being sick.

I asked my daughter to take a couple of new pictures for me this weekend (as I am scrapbooking my weight loss journey). I am proud to announce I am 1 pound away from 90lbs lost. I am just dying to cross that 90lbs mark! It is shocking how time flies when your busy. I can remember being so proud at 20lbs. lost, 35, 50...to think of 90 or 100 was too far to stretch my mind. I have always worked off little goals. I constantly focus on making it to the next mark...not the overall goal - as it would be too overwhelming for me. I am just thrilled to have made it so far in just 9 1/2 months. I had hoped I could do 100lbs in a year...but never pressured myself with it, but as the time draws near I think it is possible to accomplish.

The other day my husband was complementing me on my hard work and success...he told me he thought I'd never do it. I guess after seeing someone try and fail for years one would just assume this was just another "Try". Most previous "diet" attempts lasted less than a week. While I was caught a bit off guard by the sheer fact he was admitting to me he never expected me to accomplish this...I can't blame him for it. Somewhere inside myself I might not have believed I could do it either in the beginning, but I sure am glad I stuck with it. The changes I've made have become a lifestyle, I have really never felt like I was dieting. That was the purpose of the journey - to make a change, to improve my health, my fitness, and my quality of life but not feel deprived. I am just ever so grateful that I have found success to this point as I know so many of my fellow bloggers have truly struggled alot.

Gave in

2010-02-10T12:05:00.002-06:00

Started taking prednisone (steroid) this morning to get over this asthma bout before it migrates to bronchitis. I feel better today already - I haven't gotten to workout Tuesday or today because I was doing good to breathe without any additional stress...I hate having asthma! If you smoke - STOP...the pleasure is not worth the long term effects!

I did delight in the fact that I lost 2lbs...woohoo! I'll take it and hopefully be back to full steam in a couple more days.

All is well, food is still on track - just a lil residual guilty for not working out, but I know that is the right thing to do given my health right now.

No worry

2010-02-09T12:56:00.000-06:00

I haven't gone off the deep end or anything, just sick. Be back soon

Good and Good for you!

2010-02-03T13:04:00.004-06:00

I recently stumbled onto a great blog Love Veggies and Yoga. I love cooking and the blogger Averie provides so many yummy recipes and photos. I decided to pick a couple and give it a try. {yesterday's Kale chips were another idea from her blog}

I selected the High Raw Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls Recipe here

The recipe was easy to follow, I had all the ingredients on hand and they turned out awesome!

I hope you will check out some of her amazing recipes and give one a try too. I've opened my mind to a whole new world recently and never knew what I was missing!

Oh Happy Day

2010-02-02T19:13:00.004-06:00

Well today is Happy for a couple reasons...

Happy Groundhogs day

Happy Birthday to my sweet 16 daughter Katie!

Today I tried a new recipe - KALE CHIPS

I was reminded of reading of the idea as I strolled through the produce department, always looking for something new and unusual to try. Simple put you wash your Kale, tear the greenery from the stems in 2-3 pieces per stalk. Add them to a bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and totally cover them all, tossing with your hands and kinda massaging them.

Place them on a baking sheet, spread out, sprinkled with salt and bake at 200 degrees for about 30mins. Keep an eye on them - cause they can pass from done to burnt pretty quick!

While they were cooking I was a bit unsure what they were going to taste like, as I wasn't sure the smell coming from the oven was edible...but to my surprise they are amazing! I look forward to having them with a sandwich tomorrow!

Some Background

2010-01-30T08:18:00.004-06:00

Thanks everyone for all the great advice and suggestions on how to recover from my hip injury and to continue running. Some may already know this, but I feel it is important to give you a bit of background on me.

In 1996 at the age of 21 I was in a REALLY bad car wreck. Both of my legs were crushed. My left femur was shattered and my right leg was broken in 7 places {including the femur also}. I was told I'd possibly never walk again. These weren't my only injuries. I fractured both wrists, my pelvis was broken in 3 places, I had a skull fracture, lost 3/4 of my right knee cap in addition to being impaled by the tilt steeling level and internal injuries.

While I have enjoyed running these past 3 months and am disappointed that my old injuries are now limiting me, I am grateful to be alive and walking and able to do as much as I can now.

My primary form of exercise is WATER AEROBICS - I do 2 classes (110minutes) three days a week. It is my first love and what got me started on this weight-loss journey in May 2009.

I started adding additional land cardio in Sept. 2009 for my off days from my water classes and eventually began weight training also. The weight training has made such a difference for me. I am so much stronger, more toned and just really look forward to hitting the gym on my weight days.

I have been interested in boxing for a couple months and may pursue that a bit instead of the running. I am still kinda brainstorming on what I will replace that goal with...but make no mistake, I am moving forward and not looking back. I am just that kind of gal. I can't be bothered or distracted by what could have been...because I know from my past, that is the beginning of my demise.

Perfect 10 update #4

2010-01-29T06:22:00.003-06:00

1. Continue loosing minimum 5lbs. per month - down 8lbs for Jan!
2. To be a better blogger - post at least 3x's a week - working hard on this one, still struggling
3. Measure inches once a month - DONE
4. Do weights 3 days a week - DONE
5. Continue Daily Food Journal - DONE
6. Start scuba diving again - told my husband I would go for sure this spring!
7. Run at least 3 - 5K's in 2010 - on hold due to injury
8. Go to an amusement park with my family - and RIDE the rides!
9. Go to a water park with my family - and WEAR a swimsuit (no t-shirts on top)
10. Complete the entire 9week "Couch to 5K" program - on hold due to injury

I'm a little {Ok a LOT} bummed that I can't run right now. It honestly may not be in the cards for my in the future either due to all the old injuries I have from a car wreck in 1996. I may replace #7 & #10 with something so I can continue to grow as I hate having to fail these goals week after week. I did try jogging yesterday on the treadmill - but strong pain started right away. It's a disappointment after all my hard work in this area but I will find something else to love as much I'm sure.

RANDOM FACT #4

I love Hello Kitty! I collect anything HK I can find and proudly display it all {probably much to my poor hubby's embarrassment} in a curio in my bedroom!

Orange Shrimp & Orange-Spinach Rice Pilaf

2010-01-28T13:00:00.003-06:00

Ingredients:
2-3 navel oranges (juiced)
24 large raw peeled shrimp ( 1.5lbs)
1.5 cups brown basmati rice
2 oz spinach (3.5 cups) chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil, divided
3 cups chicken broth
1/2 tsp fine sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:
zest one orange - set zest aside
cut oranges in 1/2 and juice them - you need 1/2 cup juice

In quart sized Ziploc bag combine orange juice, 2Tbsp olive oil and minced garlic
squeeze out as much air as possible and marinate 1-3hours (turning occasionally)

About 1 hour before serving time, in medium sauce pan add 2 Tbsp olive oil.
Add rice and cook 2mins until lightly brown and fragrant
Slowly add broth, increase to high heat and bring to boil
Cover and reduce heat to low and cook until rice is tender and broth is absorbed, (about 45mins) Stir in spinach and orange zest, cover and set aside

Preheat broiler and place rack 4inches from heating element
Meanwhile drain shrimp marinate and place shrimp on baking sheet
Sprinkle with salt and pepper

Broil Shrimp until cooked through, 1.5 - 2 mins. per side.
Serve with pilaf

***************************************

6 servings

300 calories, 5grams fat, 29grams protein

Good week

2010-01-28T07:10:00.002-06:00

I'm guessing I'm doing something right - I've managed a 4lb loss this week!

I haven't seen a loss that great since early in this journey but I am so excited to have it now. Eating Clean really has made a huge difference in both my weight loss and hunger.

I made a new dish last night - It was a BIG HIT with the family.

I got it from the Clean Eating Magazine "Orange Shrimp with Orange -Spinach Pilaf".

I will post the recipe a bit later after my workout, but here is a picture to tempt ya!

Perfect 10 update #3

2010-01-23T08:39:00.004-06:00

It's been a busy week - difficult but getting better. Last night was the visitation for the dear friend we lost on Jan 13th. Today is the funeral. It is hard to face, but I know I must put it behind after today and move forward.
My oldest daughter will be 16 in just 10short days. My focus now turns to her party and car shopping. Hopefully both will be relatively easy!

1. Continue loosing minimum 5lbs. per month - down 4lbs for Jan so far!
2. To be a better blogger - post at least 3x's a week - working hard on this one
3. Measure inches once a month - DONE
4. Do weights 3 days a week - DONE
5. Continue Daily Food Journal - DONE
6. Start scuba diving again - told my husband I would go for sure this spring!
7. Run at least 3 - 5K's in 2010 - in progress
8. Go to an amusement park with my family - and RIDE the rides!
9. Go to a water park with my family - and WEAR a swimsuit (no t-shirts on top)
10. Complete the entire 9week "Couch to 5K" program - on hold due to injury

*********************************************
Random Fact #3
Feb 26, 1996 I was in a horrible car wreck which took almost a year to recover from
Feb 26, 1999 I met my current wonderful husband, who again changed my life (for the better)

all is well

2010-01-22T07:06:00.002-06:00

Been a busy week and time has gotten away from me.
Workouts have been great - my friends Jessica joined my gym and we got to workout together yesterday for the 1st time!
Eating has been good. I found out I like cottage cheese this week - LOL I am constantly amazed at how my taste has changed. Now treats or cheats are even healthy things by most standards!

I'm working hard towards my next mini-goal of 100lbs lost...I am only 18lbs. away.

I'll be back later today to post my PERFECT 10 UPDATE!

MLK day

2010-01-18T19:50:00.014-06:00

(this was typed yesterday - but blogger wouldn't let me post for some odd reason)

It was a good day...Kids were home today for MLK holiday.

We just had pj day mostly...the weekend was kinda busy shopping.

I did cook a favorite healthy meal - Tilapia with blackened seasoning, butternut squash and Brussels sprouts. (which my youngest calls "Russel Sprouts")

This particular recipe for Brussels Sprout is our FAVORITE. I got it from the Jan issue of Clean Eating. (Brussels Sprouts with spicy almond glaze)

*******************************************************

Monday Workout:

1 water aerobic class (50mins)

Perfect 10 update #2

2010-01-15T21:40:00.003-06:00

My week has been a mess. After a traumatic death I'm about drained.
My daughter had her wisdom teeth removed today and that's been exhausting also.
I'm working to pull myself together and keep focus.

UPDATE #2

1. Continue loosing minimum 5lbs. per month - lost 3lbs so far for Jan.
2. To be a better blogger - post at least 3x's a week - done!
3. Measure inches once a month - done!
4. Do weights 3 days a week - done!
5. Continue Daily Food Journal - done!
6. Start scuba diving again - told my husband I would go for sure this spring!
7. Run at least 3 - 5K's in 2010 - in process, can't run Cowtown - hurt my hip
8. Go to an amusement park with my family - and RIDE the rides!
9. Go to a water park with my family - and WEAR a swimsuit (no t-shirts on top)
10. Complete the entire 9week "Couch to 5K" program - on hold - hurt my hip

******************************************************************
Random Fact #2
I'm left handed....the only one in my family

******************************************************************

Workout:
1 water aerobics class (50mins)

UNTIL

2010-01-14T17:56:00.003-06:00

Yesterday started out so good...UNTIL
A wonderful loss and a new milestone met....UNTIL
Workout went good...UNTIL....the call

I received a phone call yesterday informing me that my mom's best friend had died.
People die right? That's part of the cycle. It wasn't that she passed from the earth, it was how.
She was murdered at the hands of her own husband of over 40years. Choked to death with his hand that for a lifetime had supported and cared for her. In recent years he has struggled with some mental illness, and evidently went of his medicine, missed some doses, or something critical to enter an altered state.

My mom is devastated to put it mildly. As kids we grew up calling this couple Aunt & Uncle...they've been to our Thanksgivings, Christmas', my wedding, the birth of my children, just everything. I am still in a state of shock and can not believe this has taken place, but I can not use it as a reason to derail me from my efforts right now, as the old Angie would likely sit and snack away the pain.

I made it to the gym today...I did 15mins of cardio and 45mins of weights.
It felt good if only for an hour of distraction between phone calls and tears.

There is no good way to call people and explain this situation.
I went to Walgreens to send a sympathy card to my friend, the daughter of the victim who was left to pick of the pieces and handle a funeral for her sweet mom...
There are NO appropriate cards to send for such a horrendous event, no one deserves to die like that, no child should have to loose both parents {essentially} in one day!

Sticking with it

2010-01-13T07:39:00.003-06:00

Wow does it pay-off to Stick with something, like this new healthier lifestyle!
I woke-up to an AWESOME 2lbs loss for this week - putting me at 80lbs lost {finally}!
I'm so thrilled. I lost 6lbs in Dec. during the first 7-10days of the months - but then hit a standstill and was certainly mentally considering that I might be at that dirty "P' word...so glad to see I was wrong!

Tuesdays Workout:
20 minute run

* couldn't finish my intended workout, as my hip has been somewhat sore and yesterday while running it was just sharp shooting pains.

So I'm gonna lay off a couple days and see how it goes. I was planning to enter a local 5K that Friday is the last day to register for {race day is 2/27}...this has been a big goal of mine. I hate to pay and not be able to run, but I also hate to NOT pay and feel better quickly and wish I could run. Decisions stink

Crazy L.I.F.E.

2010-01-11T22:04:00.003-06:00

It was a good weekend, we went out to eat a couple times (I resisted but got over-rulled). I hate going out to eat..I manage it just fine, but it's just not the food I want.

The entire family made it to the gym Sunday morning - that was great as we don't get to do that much with everyones crazy schedules.

Sunday Workout:
2miles on treadmill
45 mins. of weights

*******************************************************************

Today was back to business. Food was good. Had to pickup my nephew from daycare, which always throws off our eating times, but life goes one. I'm tired...so keeping it short and sweet!

Monday Workout:
2 water aerobic classes 1hr 40mins.

Perfect 10 update #1

2010-01-08T19:53:00.004-06:00

Ok - for my first perfect 10 update:

1. Continue loosing minimum 5lbs. per month - UNDER WAY

2. To be a better blogger - post at least 3x's a week - DID GREAT!
3. Measure inches once a month - DONE

4. Do weights 3 days a week - DONE

5. Continue Daily Food Journal - DONE

6. Start scuba diving again - told my husband I would go for sure this spring!

7. Run at least 3 - 5K's in 2010 - Signed up for the Cowtown Run for 2/27

8. Go to an amusement park with my family - and RIDE the rides!

9. Go to a water park with my family - and WEAR a swimsuit (no t-shirts on top)

10. Complete the entire 9week "Couch to 5K" program - ran all 3 sessions this week

*********************************************************************

Workout:

2mile run - 5am
2 water aerobic classes - 1hr. 40mins.

Had a productive day, got my workout done and made up my missed run from yesterdays icy weather conditions. Spending this evening on cleaning out my closet and pitching out old clothes i can't wear anymore. (WooHoo!) Hope everyone has a great weekend!

*******************************************************************

Random Fact #2

I am hung up on the number 2. I like everything in even numbers. When I eat I take a bite on the left and then a bite on the right. The TV volume must be on a even number level. Drives my family crazy sometimes (but my teen daughter is just like me-haha!)

Fail.

2010-01-07T21:26:00.003-06:00

Woke up at my routine 5am to go workout at my new & awesome 24hr hour gym, only to be contacted my sweet hubby that the roads were a solid sheet of ice and to not dare venture out. We were one of the many areas under the winter storm warning this week and it began raining overnight to compound the problem. So I waited up for him to arrive home from work and enjoyed a cup of coffee and returned back to bed.

I hate days when my workout plans get messed up . I sit around thinking about it all day. Today was my running day. I love running on that awesome new Woodway Treadmill at the gym. I can't run in the house. Dang. I'm kinda OCD you might say...LOL!

Eating was good. Stayed on track calorie-wise, I'm pretty good at that.
Hoping now that it just stays cold overnight tonight and no more rain - so I can be a happy girl at 5am and go run tomorrow what I missed today!

It's the little things

2010-01-06T21:07:00.002-06:00

This afternoon my youngest daughter was in the hallway. she was being silly and unusually lovey. She approached me and threw open her arms to hug me.
Afterwards she looked up at me and said "Hey your skinny"...LOL!!

Today's Workout:
lifting weights (1 hour)
2 water aerobic classes (1 hr 40 mins)

Sugar in your Chili?

2010-01-05T21:28:00.005-06:00

A few months ago I stumbled onto a can of DelMonte canned tomatoes "zesty chili style". You just add meat of your choice (turkey for me) and some beans and a few seasonings.

My husband requested I make it again so I went to the store to pick up the ingredients. As I strive to "Eat Clean" I routinely check labels. You can only imagine my SHOCK when I noticed these canned tomatoes had High Fructose Corn Syrup in them!!! Tomatoes? Really? WTH?!?!

So of course I checked what else was in there...chili powder, garlic, onion - no problem I can add that stuff myself. I grabbed 2 larger cans of diced petite tomatoes instead (checking the label - no sugar added!) and headed down the isle towards the beans.

I have been using kidney beans in the recipe, so I grabbed a can of those and just for good measure checked their label - WTH?!?! High Fructose Corn Syrup...in BEANS? What is going on here? Why would anyone want (or need) sugar in these beans! Needless to say - I put those babies back on the shelf, made a beeline for the dry beans section and got a nice, healthy bag of kidney beans (for 1/2 the price I might add) and just did a little extra cooking to have my bean sugar free!

Today's Workout:

5am - restarted my "Couch to 5K" podcast program - ran 2 miles - FELT GREAT!

Can't believe it!

2010-01-04T21:32:00.003-06:00

I WON Steve's Hot 100 Challenge (I got lucky and was picked from the drawing of participants!) As an awesome prize a get a jar of his smoked peppers. I can't wait to taste them and I will certainly be posting about it again!!

Today was the first MONDAY of 2010....Why not Rock it?
As per my typical routine I got the girls off to school and headed off to Water Aerobics.
I did 2 classes today - It was tough - my legs are sore from my new workouts at the gym.
Finished class and came home for a couple hours until off the to the gym to meet with my new trainer. He's a cute lil dude, Casey, all of 24hrs old, nice as can be! He really pushed me and has me upping my weights quite a bit, but I like a challenge! Ran to the store for a few critical items before off to make the round and pick up kids again!

WORKOUT:
2 water aerobics classes - 100mintues
personal trainer session - 30 mins.

Off to bed as 5am will come quickly...my oldest daughter and my hubby plan to workout with me in the morning. Hopefully everyone can get their act together!

Perfect 10.... And their off!

2010-01-03T12:59:00.004-06:00

I don't know why I have struggled with this post so much. I am excited about the challenge but have been putting off posting my goals for several days now. Got to get it together!

Perfect 10 Goals:

1. Continue loosing minimum 5lbs. per month

2. To be a better blogger - post at least 3x's a week

3. Measure inches once a month

4. Do weights 3 days a week

5. Continue Daily Food Journal

6. Start scuba diving again

7. Run at least 3 - 5K's in 2010

8. Go to an amusement park with my family - and RIDE the rides!

9. Go to a water park with my family - and WEAR a swimsuit (no t-shirts on top)

10. Complete the entire 9week "Couch to 5K" program

Random Fact about me #1:
I love to scuba dive, I've been certified for about 10years!
We stopped going when I outgrew my wetsuit about 7-8yrs ago (I claimed our busy family just didn't have time).
I WILL go diving again this SPRING/SUMMER...and plan to wear that wetsuit!

Final hot 100 update

2009-12-31T10:14:00.003-06:00

Wow - the time has flown by on this HOT 100 Challenge.

MY goals were:

1. lose 5lbs per month - I successful each month of the challenge, YEAH!

2. life weights at least 2x's per week - overall did well, maybe 2 weeks I missed this goal

3. no crackers or bread for snacks - this was harder, finally tackled it, but didn't really excel on this like I expected to

I look forward to the new challenges the PERFECT 10 will bring and will be back to post my goals either later today or in the morning!

Spreading the Word

2009-12-28T12:09:00.004-06:00

I want to share with you my new adventure. The Next Challenge from awesome blogger and friend South Beach Steve! Please click the link of the image to go check out the detail and join us in this life changing challenge to a new improved you!

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day eating went fine. I planned to allow myself a few treats. While I was eating I felt like I was doing horrible, but when I came home and wrote it all down...on paper it looks more reasonable than it felt doing!

I am constantly amazed at how my tastes have changed. I'd been dreaming of my mom's fudge, I ate a piece, but it wasn't as good as I remembered, so it was easy to stop at one piece. Same for other treats...some were just not worth the points when it came to taste, so they were abandoned after one bite.

I worked out Monday and Tuesday...but my local gym was closed wed, thur, fri, sat & sun. We got a ton of snow (which is so weird for Texas) so I couldn't go outside like I would normally. I found myself to mentally obsessed and almost mad inside that I could not just go somewhere and workout. I am now seeking to join a 24/7 gym to end this frustration...as my gym has short hours and no Sundays.

I got back in the grove today...up early and went to water aerobics...I loved it, but man it was hard to get motivated since it is still freezing here (literally 26 degrees)! I'm looking forward to hitting the gym tomorrow and getting back to the weights. I cease to be amazed at how my arms are shaping up!

It's only the begining

2009-12-23T10:01:00.005-06:00

Last night was AMAZING! I ran my first race, the Jingle Bell Run - in Dallas Texas.

My daughter's both attended with me. My oldest Katie volunteered (for service hours for graduation) and my youngest Ivy, ran with me (kinda...lol).

We arrived at the location at 5-ish, registered and got everyone where they needed to go. The forecast said 30%chance rain, and the temps were supposed to drop - so I have on long sleeve under armor, t short sleeve t-shirt, plus the long sleeve run shirt they gave me...with yoga pants.

I was SO overdressed!

Race kicked off at 6 - it went well. Ivy had already informed me that she wasn't staying with me, she was planning to win this race...lol. I met up with her at about 1/4 mile...she was already walking. I encouraged her and walked with her a few moments, and got her going again. I hated to just leave her behind...so I slowed and stayed with her and we finished together. Slower than I would have liked...but hey, she's only 11. I did give her fair warning that she would need to train before the next race...or I would leave her behind!

It was an awesome experience. We found out information on two more upcoming races here locally. Everyone was dressed so festive and fun...we even saw frosty was running!

This was such a goal for me... I am so grateful I pursued it and completed it.

Can you believe it? - hot 100 update

2009-12-21T10:38:00.003-06:00

Christmas is only 4 days away! Where has the time went?

We had a great weekend. The hubby and I attended his annual Teamster Christmas party. It is always a good time. So many drunk people in one location to watch as they make fools of themselves...LOL! Every year they do photos at the party. Last year we didn't do it because we arrived a bit late and the line was so long, but a friend did take a photo of us.

So I'm posting both last years photo and this years...

Quite amazing difference (if i do say so myself).

HOT 100 UPDATE:

1. lose 5lbs. per month - lost 6 lbs. for Dec so far

2. workout with weights 2x's per week - DONE! love it...you should see the muscles I have now

3. no bread/crackers for snacks - DONE! finally conquered this problem

sorry for such an absence!

2009-12-17T19:40:00.002-06:00

Life is just crazy - crazy good!

I've been doing well...alot of the same -o- stuff. Water aerobics, weights, StairMaster...eating has been good. Kids are finishing up their last week of school before the holiday break.

Last weekend we went to lunch with my parents. My dad hadn't seen me in about 5-6 weeks. When he walked into the restaurant foyer...he thought I was my 15yr old daughter Katie!!!
It was hilarious!

I attended my scrapbooking groups Christmas party Tuesday night. It was our holiday party and the final weigh in for our Biggest Loser competition. I WON!! I lost 10% of my weight since we began this second round in September. I was proud to win, the next competitor was at 8%....but inside I did feel a bit guilty to win both rounds, but I worked hard to lose every pound, and my motivation was not the competition, that was just a lil bonus!

This weekend my husband and I will attend his annual Christmas party for work. He works for UPS and they are Teamsters....so it's a Teamster Christmas party. Should be fun...always has been. I look froward to seeing a few shocked faces who haven't seen me in a year.(78 pounds ago!)

My biggest news is an upcoming race I'm participating in. The local Jingle Bell run. I can't wait. This will be my first race (actually fun run 1K) since I began running a few weeks back before Thanksgiving. I can't wait!

Checking In - hot 100 update

2009-12-10T10:04:00.003-06:00

Went running last night with my daughter, it was 28degrees and SO COLD!
The running wasn't difficult, but the breathing part was. The time seemed to go by fast, but I think it was because I was distracted by trying to control my breathing due to the cold. Winter here in Texas usually doesn't really come till Jan or Feb...so these crazy temps. in Dec are really making me worry about what is to come!

It's been a great week, food have been really easy (finally)! I'm going to try to wrap up some Christmas shopping in the next couple days so I won't be out there shopping with the crazy people! Hope your weekend is great.

Hot 100 UPDATE

1. lose 5lbs per month - 6lbs for Dec (so far)
2. workout with weights 2x's a week - only once this week (so far)
3. no bread/crackers for snacks - got this under control finally!

Dark Days

2009-12-08T05:36:00.002-06:00

The past 24hours have been a drama filled roller coaster. The old me would have said "screw it" and found some comfort in the closest bag of chocolate...but I'm proud to say I didn't handle the stress that way this time.

Women...what can I say. You put more than 2 in a room and the sparks will eventually fly. I can't stand drama. I feel like I am having to leave so many things and people behind on my journey to change. I'm sure it's for the best, but hard to face so many changes. I guess when your really trying to accomplish a goal - you can truly see who your supporters are - and who more importantly are the saboteurs. I'm just having to work thru eliminating all the negative in my life.

On a brighter note I weighted in at a loss of 1lb this week - I'LL TAKE IT!

Great weekend

2009-12-06T22:12:00.003-06:00

My hubby works odd hours. Friday night (Saturday morning) he arrive home around 6am. When he got in bed it woke me and we got to talking. After about an hour and a half he said he wanted to try the "couch to 5K" running with me. I was happy to say the least, but he wanted to do it right now..LOL! Well, I was already awake for the day, i had promised my teen daughter to take her with me also - so I woke her and off we all went, bundled for our run in 28 degree temps on a early Saturday morning.

It was truly a great. I could never have dreamed 6 months ago when I began this journey we'd all be running side by side like this! They both loved it...and felt like it was challenging them to do their best, but not too tough. I pushed harder of course too because they were with me. I do most workout alone, so it was quite nice to have them along.

That evening we had my nephew for the night. It was his parents annual Christmas party and he got to sleepover for the first time. It was a great day all around!

Fast week - HOT 100 Update

2009-12-04T15:11:00.003-06:00

It's been a good week but went by really fast!
Did good on eating ...good on workouts too
I try to mix-up my workout quite a bit to keep my body guessing and me from being bored.

M: 2 water aerobic classes (100minutes)
T: gym - 30mins. cardio, 1 hr. weights (90 minutes)
W: 2 water aerobics classes (100minutes)
Th: gym - 3omins. cardio, 1hr. weights (90 minutes)
F: 1 water aerobic class, 1 mile running at trail (80 minutes)

I guess because we're coming off a holiday week this one flew by for me.
Tonight we are heading out to a local event, "Holly Days"...should be fun, but hoping not to freeze either!

Hope you have a great weekend!!!

*************************************************************

Hot 100 UPDATE

1. lose 5lbs a month - 1lbs so far for DEC.
2. do weights 2x's a week - DONE
3. No crackers/bread for snacks - I've been good this week!

Hot 100 - Update

2009-11-30T06:49:00.002-06:00

HOT 100 UPDATE

1. lose 5lbs per month - 5lbs exactly...WooHoo
2. workout with weights 2x's a week - didn't do weights last week, did running "couch to 5K"
3. no bread for snacks - did excellent - no more crackers!

Most of the month I was stuck at a 2lb loss and the last week, Thanksgiving week of all things I lost 3 lbs! I am shocked and amazed and ever so grateful to earn those 3 pounds! Since I started doing the couch to 5K running - I'm guessing that boosted my lose. I'd begun to think I might be at that weights forever!

I'm looking forward to December. On the 15th my scrapbooking groups "Biggest Loser round 2" ends...I won the first round, if the numbers are about the same as our last group weight in - I will likely win this round too...lol!

Hope you all have a great Monday - after our wonderful long weekend break for thanksgiving!

No problem!

2009-11-28T21:26:00.002-06:00

Wow...I never expected to being sharing with you that I ended Thanksgiving day with points left over!!! I knew I had planned to be well in control on my eating, but even I never anticipated having a calorie surplus.

I began my morning with a run/walk at 8am in 45degree temps...it was such a personal accomplishment. I've never exercised on any holiday before. Next year I plan to be running in the local turkey trot.

I had a good breakfast, prepared the hubby and kids and went to the inlaws. We had a splendid time..better than I can ever remember. It was nice that my mom-n-law actually acknowledged my weight loss too. I am not motivated my recognition but I hadn't seen her in 6months so it was encouraging for her to say something, she is not really the kind to say much.

my kids: Ivy 11, Katie 15, Jared 20

Friday - I went shopping on Black Friday for the first time EVER. Never before could I have probably navigated the crowds - I am sure I would have NEVER been able to stand in the lines either. It was an awesome experience - beside what I was able to get on sale - just that I could go, participate, feel again like part of the human race!

Saturday - I slept in till almost 10. I am typically up like clockwork at 6:20. I ate breakfast, got the family situated and off to my run/walk. I completed Day three of "Couch to 5K". Week one is under my belt...complete....I can hardly believe it! I look forward to my first goal of Running in the Cowtown 5K February 26th...hopefully with my husband and maybe some friends.

We put up the outdoor Christmas lights and decorations. Then off for a family bike ride. We had a nice afternoon and evening. We ate homemade pizza, watched a movie and spent a nice evening with the girls. I look forward to Monday and a new week, new month, new challenges and new accomplishments.

I will update my HOT 100 tomorrow!

new eyes and a smaller size

2009-11-26T09:26:00.004-06:00

This year I wish you Happy Thanksgiving thru new eyes and a smaller size!

Over just the past few days I have really been thinking and noticing so many new things I am thankful for. Yes, I too am thankful for all the typical things: God and Country, my parents, my husband and children, that my husband had a good job in a bad economy, that we are healthy, etc..

but now living my life in such a different manor than the previous 34 years...I'm seeing so many new things that just make me smile and be thankful!

I am thankful for:

the extra room between my tummy and the steering wheel
my feet and ankles no longer hurting just to walk
seeing a smaller shadow in front of me on sunny days
that I am leading by example for my children to live a healthy life
that I am learning to run after being told I might never walk again 13yrs ago
that I have finally found the courage and strength to put myself FIRST
that I finally feel like I am becoming who I was always meant to be

I wish you all the same joy today as you celebrate Thanksgiving with your families!

Regret

2009-11-24T09:57:00.004-06:00

Regret is the name of the game right now!!!

Last night after the awesome shopping I decided to take my girls to our local pizza spot. I ate a salad as always & a couple pieces of pizza, minus the top crust. We go there once in awhile as a treat - the whole family loves it. I always stay well in control on my portions and picks.

Well, I've been really focusing on Clean Eating - obviously pizza from a restaurant is not part of that concept, but I'm not super rigid & thought this would be kinda my treat meal for the week (as I have NO intentions of blowing thanksgiving).

This morning I am in full REGRET mode of that pizza choice. I feel HORRIBLE. My stomach is killing me to the point I wondered if I had food poisoning...but since the kids are fine, I think it was just too far of a stretch from my clean eating unprocessed, un-greasy food routine.

I may never eat pizza again! {or eggrolls} as the same thing happened after I ate one tiny one of them last week...LOL!

That's my size!

2009-11-23T21:53:00.002-06:00

Tonight while at the mall with my girls I went into a clothing store to see if I could find anything to wear to Thanksgiving. I came across a fabulous sale and got 4 new shirts for a mere $53.00 (including the tax).

The BEST part of the entire event was I bought them in the right size!

I have been overweight MOST of my life. With the exception of my childhood until about age 10, and in high school from 16 - 21 or so. As a child, money was always tight and we mainly shopped from the clearance racks. My mom meant well, but I wore clothing too small for the majority of my adolescent years until I began working and buying my own stuff around age 15.

I HATE tight clothing. I rarely even wear a jacket in the winter, because I feel they are "tight". As an adult I have ALWAYS purchase my clothing too big, even during the years when I wasn't overweight. Recently my dad gave me some money to buy cloths since loosing so much weight, I still bought too big. Several people have kindly approached me about this even. Nicely mentioning that they don't think I've absorbed the amount of weight I have lost. I even had to reorder a swimsuit recently 3 times...and I am still wearing one that is too large..LOL. My aerobics instructor/friend has mentioned it too. Well she was right...I tried on the size she told me to wear...I came out to be inspected by my children and they said I looked great.

It is something I will have to get adjusted too...but after being told by so many caring people in my life and the mention that wearing over sized clothes make me look bigger...I am going to force myself to wear the correct sizes from now on! I still can't really wrap my mind around the idea that I'm in "that size"...but I look in the mirror and it fits, so I guess they are all telling me the truth - haha!

FINALLY!

2009-11-22T09:50:00.003-06:00

I stopped weighing for several days in frustration that I'd been at the same weight for 2 weeks and only 1/10 of a pound from 70 lost. This morning to my joy I lost that 1/10 plus and extra 1/2 lb! WOOHOO!!!

praying for a blessing - hot 100 update

2009-11-19T12:28:00.002-06:00

Had an awesome workout this morning. 30 mins on the stairmaster and 1hour of weights - I've never left the gym with my shirt soaked before and it felt great. I workout alone - yes there are people to my left and right in the room, but it would be so nice to have a buddy to workout with. I don't mind being alone at all...but I often find myself thinking it would be nice to have someone to share interests with. While my family has changed their eating quite a bit, I often feel like I'm on this journey alone. Not that I', the only one doing without...as I don't often feel like I missing out on the junk food I no longer eat, but I feel like no one understands me anymore. I'm still the same person, just making different choices, and that leaves me with not much in common with so many of my "friends" and family now.

This year for the 1st time in my adult life - I am not going to spend thanksgiving with "my family" we are instead going to my husband's family for the big meal. I felt like it was time to be a bit more open minded and less selfish and try to get to know them all better and spend some time with them at holidays too. It was decided several months ago, but as the feast is only a week away I think this will be such a good thing for me personally. My parents support my weight loss efforts but don't really "get it". They are the WORST sabotagers - totally unintentional but just really want you to eat it all. Even after 7 months of changes - I know inside that I'm one holiday binge away from blowing it all...I don't want to move backwards, I must progress forward.

HOT 100 UPDATE
1. lose 5lbs per month - still at 2lbs, hoping for a good loss this week!
2. workout with weights 2x's a week - DONE
3. no bread for snacks - I've been bad on this...I should have never bought saltine crackers in the house as I rationalize 5 crackers for 50calories as "not too bad"...NO MORE CRACKERS!

Never been called a cheater!

2009-11-17T07:10:00.002-06:00

Yesterday when I arrived to water aerobics class (after a week break) my instructor asked if I was cheating on her! LOL...that's a first. I'd never been accused of such thing - haha!

I attend water aerobics like a faithful worshipper. I never miss classes. I often take two a day. So when 5 days past and she didn't see me, she just assumed I was off visiting around and checking out the competition at other classes..lol.

I informed her I wasn't...I've attended religiously and felt after 6 months non-stop I deserved a week off, so I went on water aerobic vacation! It was nice to be back in my grove yesterday and I'm actually even sore!

Oh the numbers!

2009-11-16T13:49:00.002-06:00

Last week I gave blood...actually platelets. I do this routinely because at age 21 I was in a car wreck and received 8 units from anonymous donors and I have made a promise to myself to always pay that forward.
I hadn't given blood since my journey to better health began and I certainly was interested to see what my cholesterol was. So at the appointment my blood pressure was 102/69, pulse 63 and hemoglobin (iron count) 14.4 - an awesome number. I was so expecting my cholesterol to be much improved. To my disappointment I found out it was 214. Now that's a VAST improvement from my one time high of 274, but my previous reading was 258...I was just expecting it to be so much better since I haven't eaten anything fried in over 6 months, I eat mostly non-processed foods and workout almost daily.
I'm hoping it will improve with time, but I think I will make a visit to my doctor just to consult her opinion. Seems like I'd see a lower number with a 70lb loss and improved diet.

are you kidding me?

2009-11-12T09:20:00.002-06:00

That was exactly what went through my mind when I stepped on the scale this morning! I am 1/10 of a pound away from 70lbs lost. I want that 10th REALLY bad.

It amazing how you change on this lifestyle change journey. I started out wanting to lose weight. As time has passed I now am more focused on being healthy. I still want to lose the pounds but my eating has completely shifted. While trying to eat "made over" meals, lean cuisines and 100 calorie packs of the old food I started thinking that most of it was probably not the BEST fuel for my body. It wasn't something one day I woke up and thought "I'm gonna try a new way of eating"...just a gradual change.

What a HUGE improvement it has made for me. I am in love with healthy natural foods. I haven't had sodas in weeks, totally on decaf. coffee (still loving a bit of sugar free creamer). I never envisioned this is where I would be 6months into this journey...BUT It's great.

Glad I did it

2009-11-10T14:14:00.003-06:00

Kept procrastinating on the workout today

...don't know why...

it was great once I got there!

all is well

2009-11-08T09:30:00.003-06:00

Hot 100 GOALS:

1. lose 5lbs. a month - 2lbs. gone for November so far!
2. do weights 2x's a week - did 3 days
3. no bread for snacks - I was weak , ate crackers a couple times this week

Still cruising right along the lifestyle make-over. I've been changing up my workouts a bit, kinda rotating them to keep the boredom at bay. The second swimsuit arrived on Tuesday - and it too was TOO BIG. Had to order yet a 3rd one, that is too arrive on Monday. I know it's great I've shrank that much, but what a pain mailing swimsuits back and forth for 3 weeks!

I think my husband is ALMOST motivated enough to start working out with me in the morning at the gym. I am so excited. I don't want to pressure him into it, just hoping to inspire.

Life is good...can't believe Christmas is around the corner. I've already started buying for the kids. Thanksgiving we are going to my husbands family. They have not seen me since Oct 2008 when our son got married...so I am anticipating some great reactions to my loss of almost 70lbs!!!!

Mark it in the record books...

2009-11-01T10:31:00.002-06:00

This was the FIRST Halloween EVER that I didn't eat candy...woohoo for non-scale victories!

Hot 100 - Weekly Wrap-up

2009-10-30T11:32:00.003-05:00

MY HOT 100 GOALS

1. lose 5lbs. a month - lost 7lbs!!!
2. do weights 2x's a week - did 3days
3. No BREAD for snacks - done

As this week draws to an end...life is good and on track. Working out at the gym is becoming easier by the day...while water aerobics is fun - I'm dreading those days because it's so darn cold now. I've decided to not do the unlimited membership for November and most likely will cut back to 2 days a week. With all the hardware in my legs...the cold and water chill really make me ache...I will just have to see how it goes as time progresses.

I'm loving the weight workouts...hoping to get some 1 on 1 time for advice and a lil training from a friend of my husbands who is a body builder.

I can't believe how fast October flew by! Only 46 days till Christmas!!!

Eating has been really good. I've been focusing on the clean eating. I'm totally off Sprite Zero..and all Caffine (my coffee habit). I am still indulging in decaf. coffee but MUCH less and barley using any coffee creamer (sugar free of course).

Good News?

2009-10-28T19:41:00.002-05:00

Well, I ordered a new swimsuit for water aerobics a bit over 2 weeks ago. It was back ordered...but I was willing to wait because it was the color I wanted.

The GOOD NEWS: It finally arrived today
The BAD NEWS: it's too dam big!

I should have taken my measurements before ordering, but instead lazy me just ordered the next smallest size (because I was only buying a new one because my current one is too big). Who would have thought I'd need to go down 2 sizes!!! I should be happy...but what a pain mail order is sometimes. It will be Monday or Tuesday before the next one arrives....but in the end I'll love it I'm sure. They are the BEST swimsuits ever...with a 1yr warranty!!! My first non-H2Owear suit wore out in 6weeks!!! My current one is 12 weeks old and looks as good at day 1.

All is well here...on track eating, working out. Bumped up my weights a bit this week...it was tolerated well the 1st day I adjusted it, so I'm gonna stick with it tomorrow. I never dreamed a day would come that I'd look forward to working out. Or that one day I'd be mad if someone was on my favorite Precor AMT!!! Life has shifted so much in the past 6 months it's almost hard to know who I was before and where I am truly headed...but I do know, I plan for the numbers on that scale to keep heading down!

Hot 100 - update

2009-10-23T18:22:00.004-05:00

Hard to believe another week has come and gone! Today I had the pleasure of trying on all the pants in my closet to discover I only have 3 that fit, the rest are all WAY too big now- YEAH! I'm looking forward to nice weather this weekend and riding my new bike some more. It really gave my hamstrings a workout last week, but due to rain I only got to ride one day this week so far.

I'm still focusing on "clean eating", I've located some local resources that have great potential and my family seems a bit interested also!

HOT 100 UPDATE

1. lose 5lbs per month - lost 4lbs so far for October!!!

2. do weights at least 2 times per week - done!

3. no breads for snacks - no problem

Pump up the Jam

2009-10-20T22:07:00.003-05:00

They say a picture is worth a 1,000 words....I for one am speechless (but oh so happy with the changes I'm seeing and feeling!)

CHRISTMAS 2008

OCTOBER 2009

Good Morning Monday

2009-10-19T06:44:00.005-05:00

It was a great weekend. We invested in the entire family getting new bikes so we could spend some family time off the couch together. The girls got new bikes a couple weeks ago. After I was sure I could ride my oldest daughter's bike I was pumped to get my own. I am a frugal shopper but couldn't resist getting the PINK Schwinn cruiser...I just love it! My hubby picked something more rugged of course...black and yellow, shocks, blah, blah, blah!

I've been working on "Clean Eating" for the past week. I've done well. I was even successful through the weekend - until we at our weekly splurge meal, that ended up being pizza, but I did grab a salad also to try to balance that out!

I am thrilled with a 2lb loss for the week...I certainly worked HARD for it!

keeping the faith - HOT 100 update

2009-10-16T21:54:00.003-05:00

It was a good day - the perfect end to a shaky week.

I mentioned to my water aerobic instructor I was kinda disappointed that I'd only lost one pound the past two weeks. She was quick to take the glass half full approach to me - and remind me that many people can't loose a full pound in a week. Reminding me that after loosing 6olbs...things might slow down a bit.

It was exactly what I needed to hear...and she is always a great source of strength to me. During class we stand face to face...to day she told me I was her workout buddy. I had to smile. I've tried working out with so many people thru the years...all whom have flaked out faster than me. I chuckled at Anna's comment to me about being workout buddies and told her "you the perfect buddy, I know every morning I get ready for class you'll be here"..."you haven't called and cancelled on me once!"

HOT 100 UPDATE

1. lose 5lbs per month - lost 2lbs so far for October
2. do weights at least 2 times per week - no problem this time, going strong and lovin it
3. no breads for snacks - had bread one night, but with protein after a workout

Just push Repeat on the iPod

2009-10-15T09:51:00.003-05:00

Who knew it was that easy huh?

Today while having an amazing workout - I discovered I could push myself much further by just selecting my favorite song and thinking...I'll just keep going thru one more play of the song! Needless to say, one more play turned into, 2, 3...it was the best workout ever, and I was even lacking a workout buddy today.

I ended up doing:
15mins on the treadmill
15mins on the stairmaster (an unimaginable concept for me until recently - with my knee injuries)
3 rotations on the weights

Cheer up babycakes

2009-10-14T11:41:00.003-05:00

I need to take my own advice. I need to focus less on the number on the scale and more on "being healthy". After 2 weeks of playing with the same 1-2lbs going up and down day after day..I'm flat frustrated. I know I shouldn't be so wrapped up in the"number" but I feel like I'm working my butt off, eating right and getting no results. I get all caught up in it and think "why am I working so hard for nothing!"
I can't figure out if I'm not eating enough (I can't imagine it being eating too much - cause I never go over points) I'm doing water aerobics 3 days a week (6hrs weekly) I've added working out at the gym to the mix - doing the treadmill, stair-master and weights 2 days a week also...why on earth and I not seeing any change???

Hot 100 - update & PAIN

2009-10-10T11:33:00.002-05:00

HOT 100 UPDATE

1. lose 5lbs per month - lost 1lb so far for October
2. do weights at least 2 times per week - oh my, the pain - yes I went
3. no breads for snacks - no problem so far!

So this weight lifting thing is KILLING ME. Literally...I though I might be dying (or having a stroke) after working out Thursday. My arms totally felt like noodles and I struggled to drive to pick my kids up from school. My husband said "oh, no worry...that's totally normal and tomorrow they will probably be a little sore".

OK...that was the UNDERSTATEMENT of the CENTURY! My arms hurt so freaking much I can barley brush my teeth. I've had surgery before and been in less pain. This is horrible and nothing helps. I thought Friday was bad and Saturday would be better...HELL NO. It's worse!!

I could barley sleep, get dressed or any other routine activity. I've tried ibuprofen, icy hot, heat, cold...nothing give me any relief. The best part of this weight workout thing is my arms hurt too much to feed myself...LOL. God, I am praying for some relief tomorrow....please, please, please! My husband said I just need to go back and do some more or I'll never get used to it...WTH?

I think I might prefer to get used to getting my teeth pulled with no Novocaine before I'll get used to not being able to lift my arms!

Eye on the prize

2009-10-08T09:12:00.002-05:00

Staying focused can be hard at times. When you work at this "weight loss thing" for months on end it's easy to get bored or tired of it. Keeping focused on the destination is a good way to allude those lil pitfalls. This is a new way of life...not a temporary!
I occasionally get in that rut mindset of being ready for this to be "over"....but then I snap back to reality and realize it will NEVER be over for me. I will have to pay attention and never go back to mindless eating again - or I will undo all the hard work I have done.

Yesterday was a good food day...no munchies like earlier in the week (thank goodness). I ended the day earlier than normal (8pm) with quite a few leftover points. I was super tired and just went on to bed.

B: oatmeal, peanut butter, coffee (6 points)
L: turkey sandwich, 100cal chips (6points)
S: rice chips, coffee (4points)
D: WW soup, crackers, pear (4points)
S: coffee (2points)

reason to celebrate

2009-10-06T16:06:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was my 2 year anniversary of quitting smoking! What a milestone that is for me...I wanted to quit for some long, glad I finally followed thru!

Eating was good this weekend - had a little tiny bit of BBQ at my brother's Sunday.
Got some AWESOME new shoes - needed them badly and only had to try on like 30 pair to find the right ones for me. I hate buying shoes...my feet are so picky (an have expensive taste)

Monday eating - I seemed to snack all day, which is totally out of the normal for me. Not sure if it was because it was gloomy and raining, I had a kid home sick and my routine was off, or if I just had a bad day. I didn't totally blow it...but did have one cup of coffee more than I typically allow myself (additional 2 points) and one slice of banana bread I made my husband (5 points - but my daughter swear I should have only counted it as 3).

weighed in this morning - 1 lb loss...I'll take it!

Today I am right on track food wise:
B: English muffin, 1 tbsp peanut butter, coffee (6)
L: lean cuisine (6)
S: kids cliff bar (2)
D: planning on fish and broccolli

New Month...New Goals

2009-10-03T11:28:00.004-05:00

Last night I went to my daughter's high school football game...I was shocked that 3 people I have known for years didn't recognize me at first glance...LOL! What a compliment it was. It was also humorous by the 3rd time it happened...watching their face, the "oh wow, that's you"..."oh my, you look awesome!"

I've decided to stick with my current workout schedule of water aerobics 3 days a week (2 class each day - 2hours) and using the off days to do weights at my local gym. I just can't wrap my head around joining 24hr fitness. Maybe I'll bite off that challenge for 2010...I just like my routine and it's working so far!

Yesterday was good...been kinda in a "snacky mood" for a couple days, but even so - stayed in my point range for the day and attended a public event with no trips to the concession stands!

B: English muffin, morning star sausage, coffee (x2)
L: pita, feta, slice turkey, veggie chips
Snack- rice chips
D: pita, chicken salad, veggie chips
Snack- coffee

Hot 100 - update

2009-09-30T21:17:00.003-05:00

It's been a good day...good week and hey - It's half over!
Eating has been on track, I don't really struggle with that often. Yesterday I got busy and ended the day with 7 extra points. I've really been enjoying how I get full faster and stay full longer now that I'm eating much more healthy and have adjusted to a new way of eating

Meals today were...
B: English muffin, morning star sausage, Clementine, coffee
L: WW soup, 10 crackers, pear
D: 1c. turkey chili, cornbread vita-top

HOT 100 UPDATE

1. lose 5lbs per month - lost 10lbs for September
2. do weights at least 2 times per week - went tues, going again tomorrow
3. no breads for snacks - so far, so good

I got this

2009-09-29T07:43:00.003-05:00

Imagine my surprise to step on the scale this morning and have my 2 pounds!

WooHoo...that makes for a great Tuesday!

This morning I'm going to join our location small town recreation center that has a gym. I just can bear yo join 24hr fitness yet...lol. I love my water aerobics and instructor too much. So I've decided to stay with that at least until January. By adding some weigh training with the local rec. I think that will be a good addition to my routine.

Hard to believe I've been on track since May - 5 months! Time really flies when your having fun.

2 pounds

2009-09-25T13:05:00.004-05:00

That is the amount that stands between me and a 60lb loss right now! I weighed in this morning and I've lost a total of 58 lbs now. I'm totally happy with that, but always strive to push myself as much as possible.

I'm an all or nothing gal. I don't tend to half ass much of anything (maybe cleaning). I read all these other blogs about people getting "on and off program"...I just don't get it. I'm not saying I'm stronger than them or better in anyway...just don't understand why in a moment of weakness people tend to just throw up their hands and say oh...well, I cheated for a day, or a few days. Why in the hell would you want to work so hard and in a moment throw it out the window?

I do allow myself to use my flex points for a splurge (usually once a week). I do occasionally go over my points (maybe like 1-3 points) but I'd never just wake up and go "I'm having a crappy day, I think I'll eat a carton of ice cream". To each their own but I'm sure tired of reading about it....because routinely they post a few days later about how their at a plateau!!!

The HOT 100

2009-09-23T20:15:00.002-05:00

South Beach Steve has an awesome challenge going, starting TODAY....I'm all in!

goals:
1. lose 5lbs per month
2. do weights at least 2 times per week
3. no breads for snacks

I'll be updating my progress on these every 7-10days

time flies....

2009-09-23T08:05:00.003-05:00

Hard to believe this month only has one week left! My group of friends and I started our 2nd round of Biggest Loser Sept 1 and I weighed in yesterday for a 3 week lose of 5lbs. I'm happy with that...I'd like it to be more, but I've lost 56lbs now...so I expected it to slow down a bit.

They had a bit of a surprise party for me yesterday at our weekly get-together for scrapbooking. They were all so thoughtful - cupcake (1point WW friendly ones), gifts and a lil bit of sabotage in the form of a red velvet cake and carmel ice cream!!! OK...what was she thinking. I did have a tiny piece of the cake, I didn't want to hurt her feelings...in hindsight, maybe I should have just stood firm in what I'm doing here...but I only at a lil tiny 2-3 bites.

Off to spend my birthday morning doing 2 hours of water aerobics
...who think this would be me at 35!

change is hard

2009-09-20T20:29:00.002-05:00

I've been working out at the local natatorium for 5 month doing water aerobics. I love it. The teacher is awesome, it's close to home, it all non-threatening "older" people. ...BUT the ugly truth is I need something more challenging now. I don't want to leave my comfy workouts. My typical daily routine, the pool where everybody knows my name...BUT I NEED TOO. I need to join the local 24hr fitness, but it's BIG, and scary, and I don't know anyone there. Change is so hard...It took me years to go to water aerobics to begin with...hopefully I can get over this fear and move to the next step soon!

In the face of change

2009-09-17T21:54:00.003-05:00

I slept most of today, something I seldom do. Since starting this weight-lose journey, I have not allowed myself to return to bed after I start my morning. That is quite a discipline, since my husband works nights and is always in bed during the day. Although I'd slept all night, I was mentally and emotionally exhausted from life. Just on overload!

It was nice to just escape the non-stop thoughts and second guessing all day. You know how you have a fight and you think of all the things you'd wished you'd done or said. Hindsight is 20/20...but a person could certainly send themselves to a the funny farm dwelling on "what could have been". I try not to hash and rehash life. What is done is the past and all we can change is the future.

I did enjoy looking into the past a bit today. To not beat myself up but bask in the pleasure of some success. Losing 54lb certainly changes a persons look. I'm not done. I'm only just beginning this journey...but for a moment it was nice to reward myself in looking back from where I came. I am amazed how my face has changed over 4 months and I look forward to what is ahead.

Life runs a-muck!

2009-09-16T19:38:00.002-05:00

I have the best intentions for today posting, but life has fractured here. Being a parent of teens (who are girls) just sucks sometimes. I'm frustrated and mad all at the same time, I feel I am right, but wonder if I'm wrong in the same moment. I just want to run away sometimes.

Seems now more than ever everything is pulling at me for attention. Friends, family, bills, chores, etc....I just want to focus on me and it feels like the more I try to put myself at the top of the list, the most get thrown at me.

I'm sure everyone has these days...tomorrow will be better!

Mad about Mondays!

2009-09-14T13:48:00.002-05:00

I love Mondays...I finally get to go back to my workout class! I'm still sick but forced myself to get up and get ready this morning, knowing if I skipped water aerobics I would be mentally beating myself up till Wednesday. I am so glad I went. I thought "I'll just go to one class - if it's too much I'll skip the second class"...well, our instructor had wedding cake this weekend which always means a SUPER AGGRESSIVE workout...but I made it thru thinking "this isn't too bad, I bet I can do deep water also"...so I stayed for both classes, 2 hours and it was GREAT!

I often try to push myself in all things now. For too many years I have said "maybe tomorrow", "I'll do it next time" or made some justification for wimping out for the smallest of reasons. The payoff is great and I'm not letting life just pass me by anymore!

Hope your Monday is off to a GREAT START!

to be continued...

2009-09-13T11:44:00.001-05:00

I went from having major allergy issues to being full blown sick.
I'll be back (hopefully tomorrow)

Weekends are hard...

2009-09-12T11:07:00.003-05:00

Most people look forward to weekends with great anticipation, NOT ME! I do water aerobics during the week and there are no classes on the weekend. I often mope over this fact!

When I was 21 I was in a VERY bad car wreck. I suffered alot of injuries but the worst was that my legs were broken, each in multiple places. My orthopedic surgeon prepared me that I might not even walk again...but I wasn't settling for that. It look about a 6 month to be weight bearing, and about another 6 months to be walking "cane-free", but I did it.

The reason I mention this is because I am REALLY limited on the exercise I can do. My doctors have told me for YEARS (14 now) to try water aerobics. I just could never wrap my mind around the idea, even when I was thinner. Me? Go somewhere outside my home & friends in a swimsuit? Each and every time they would mention this idea I'd say "ok, I'll check it out" and in my mind say "WHATEVER!".

Imagine how shocked I was to finally try it out after all this time and FALL IN LOVE! I have never been a workout fan, but I truly wake-up each day excited to go to this awesome class. I started going in May...I have went religiously and my body now craves it. I can tell such a HUGE difference in how my legs/feet/ankles feel from it and kick myself often from not venturing out of my comfort zone sooner. I guess 14 years later is better than never, huh?

I encourage you to leave your comfort zone too...what's the worst that could happen? You just might find something you love and changes your life too!

"was" a full size 96 Mitsubishi Diamante

Light Bulb Moments

2009-09-11T06:56:00.000-05:00

The REAL decision to change came several years ago. In my mind I have always thought "I'll lose the weight by 35"...mainly because 30 came and went, and the weight didn't go! So, around late August of 2007 I decided it was indeed time for change!

As a smoker of 13-14 years...I knew I needed to tackle that demon before I could ever deal with the eating habits. I had tried many times and failed but I REALLY wanted to quit for ME this time. I took Chantix the first 3 months to get over the initial hurdle and withdrawals, I never once cheated or snuck a cigarette.

Although I'd been smoke-free for well over a year I knew my next challenge was going to be MUCH different. There would be no drug to take the cravings of food away. I couldn't just stop eating like I did with smoking and walk away...I have to play with this food demon each and every day.

In June of 2009 I knew it was time...as 35 was quickly approaching, my kids aren't getting any younger and I'm not getting any thinner! The time for a major overhaul of my eating habits and lifestyle was upon me. As I began to mentally prepare myself, I shared my plan with friends. As a result, a local scrapbooking group I run decided to start a biggest loser challenge. Each member committed $20 towards the prize. There were 11 of us, and I won the 4 month challenge Sept. 1st by loosing 12% during the competition (my closest competitor was at a 6% loss) and receiving the $200 prize!

It has been awesome to have friends along for this journey. They have enjoy working together and supporting each other so much, we have now started a round 2 of the Biggest Loser challenge that will end in December.

I am strong when I set my mind to something, I've always been that way. Eating is so different than most bad habits, since we must eat it is a real struggle of choices and balance.

Try something new

2009-09-10T08:54:00.000-05:00

In an effort to "mix it up" and keep our healthy lifestyle interesting, I often try new fruits and veggies that come into season. This week at my local fruit stand Israeli melons were the stand out among the typical apples and pears. At 69cents a pound I figured we'd give it a try. The sale gal described it as a cross between other melons, specifically mentioned cantaloupe and honeydew. Now I love cantaloupe, but not a huge fan of the honeydew, but this melon smell yummy! I sliced it this morning and it is perfectly ripe. It is sweet with a mild taste, almost impossible to describe, but good. I'm off to cube it up and enjoy a bit with my breakfast!

A new adventure...

2009-09-09T22:47:00.000-05:00

After starting a major lifestyle overhaul in May 2009, I have finally decided to begin a weight loss blog to record my journey. The purpose is to both encourage others in their daily struggles and remind myself of the work I've put into these changes. Took look back is to remember, to go back is to surrender!