I don't know how many of you were actually reading two months ago when I posted about the "Show Me 60" challenge, but today is my 60th day. And I feel like I don't have much to "show you."
When I started the challenge I had high hopes of losing 8 pounds in those 60 days. A pound a week is totally doable, right? And it wouldn't have been out of the realm of possibility to lose 16 pounds in 60 days. Heck, if I were a contestant on the Biggest Loser, I could have lost 100 pounds in 60 days!
Alas, I didn't lose any pounds. May have actually gained a bit. I'll weigh in tomorrow and find out for sure.
But, I'm not despairing, because I realized this week, I am, in fact, making progress. Maybe not the kind that shows on the scale or in the waistband.
It first hit me in yoga class Thursday when I realized I could actually do the boat pose. That's the one where you sit up, holding behind your knees, then lean back so you're balancing on your tailbone in sort of a V shape. Used to be, when I'd do this I would literally shake all over. I was kind of embarrassed about it.
But Thursday, I did it. And I didn't shake! And I didn't have to stop before the instructor told me to stop. Yay!
Today, I walked my longer route, and I wasn't even high on Midol. And check this out: I jogged a little. Just a little. About a block, two different times. Tiny little step, but there's no way I could have done that two months ago, let alone had the desire to try.
Then I came inside and did my push ups and crunches. Six weeks ago, when I added my "baby step" of doing push ups (on the knees) and crunches, as many as I could of each, I did 17 push ups and 45 crunches. Today, I did 19 push ups and 85 crunches! Eighty-five! Can you imagine?! No wonder I could do the boat pose!
So, I've decided that I must not get discouraged. Progress may not come in the form, and with the speed, we want or expect, but it always comes if we don't give up!
Most Awesome Song I Heard While Working Out: "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey. Journey is of course the original and probably best version of this song, and that's the one on my Ipod. However, as I listened, I couldn't help thinking back to the version from Glee. And, if you're like me, (no offense to my baseball fan readers!) you are in a bit of withdrawal due to Glee being pre-empted by the World Series. So, enjoy!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
The Games We Play
Some time ago, I confessed that I was trying to give up the bubbly. Diet or not, I keep reading about how soda isn't such a good idea. Is this really a news flash? Have you read the ingredients in that beverage? Oh, how I love you- my little chemistry experiment in a can (or in a Route 44 cup).
Dropping the soda was one of the top recommendations if you wanted to live to be 100 years old. Dropping soda is recommended to prevent sugar spikes and cravings - and I must say, that I've been known to have a relationship with a soda before 10 am - and I have noticed that on those days - I'm doomed before I start. If I start with a soda, overeating is sure to follow in one form or another.
And for me - part of the problem is that soda goes with all of the other bad foods. It goes well with salty foods, fast foods, fried foods, fatty foods, and follow it up with some serious sweets! If I can manage to stay away from it - fighting the rest of my food choices during the day can be a little easier.
So this is my game plan. First, I've experimented with lots of the flavor packets that you add to water bottles. I have found a few green teas that I'm fond of and I even located one "energy" drink that has low calories and a little caffeine - a pure lifesaver.
Second, I'm really proud of myself when I avoid the temptation and I usually try to drink 16 oz of water before I give into the craving. By the time I've finished the water, I'm usually over it.
Third, I play evil games. I've really been doing pretty good. And I really enjoy the benefits of success. I am surrounded by co-workers that crack one open on a regular basis. So, in my mind, every time I hear them pop one open - I think to myself "You are doing so much better than them..." I've come close to laughing with joy at what I perceive as their failure. (I know it's mean, I try to do something good later to balance out the karma.)
On those desperate days, I play another game. I can't drink one until everyone else in the room has. (And I can't / don't tell them that I'm basically hanging my craving on their shoulders.) Again, the thing is that by the time they all drink one - I've consumed enough water to not really need it or want it.
I've not been buying soda for the home - or I'm buying soda that isn't for me. For once, being picky has paid off. And because I am not good at absolutes - I haven't made soda completely "off limits". I feel free to indulge on special occasions or on days when I'm busy fighting other things. But overall, every day that I go without- I'm a little more capable of making it the next day.
In general, I've learned that we play lots of mind games with ourselves that aren't good for our self-esteem; at least in this case the mind games are helping me better myself. Best of luck to anyone else fighting the battle of the bulge / battle of the bubbly!
I just found this. Proof I'm on the right track!
Dropping the soda was one of the top recommendations if you wanted to live to be 100 years old. Dropping soda is recommended to prevent sugar spikes and cravings - and I must say, that I've been known to have a relationship with a soda before 10 am - and I have noticed that on those days - I'm doomed before I start. If I start with a soda, overeating is sure to follow in one form or another.
And for me - part of the problem is that soda goes with all of the other bad foods. It goes well with salty foods, fast foods, fried foods, fatty foods, and follow it up with some serious sweets! If I can manage to stay away from it - fighting the rest of my food choices during the day can be a little easier.
So this is my game plan. First, I've experimented with lots of the flavor packets that you add to water bottles. I have found a few green teas that I'm fond of and I even located one "energy" drink that has low calories and a little caffeine - a pure lifesaver.
Second, I'm really proud of myself when I avoid the temptation and I usually try to drink 16 oz of water before I give into the craving. By the time I've finished the water, I'm usually over it.
Third, I play evil games. I've really been doing pretty good. And I really enjoy the benefits of success. I am surrounded by co-workers that crack one open on a regular basis. So, in my mind, every time I hear them pop one open - I think to myself "You are doing so much better than them..." I've come close to laughing with joy at what I perceive as their failure. (I know it's mean, I try to do something good later to balance out the karma.)
On those desperate days, I play another game. I can't drink one until everyone else in the room has. (And I can't / don't tell them that I'm basically hanging my craving on their shoulders.) Again, the thing is that by the time they all drink one - I've consumed enough water to not really need it or want it.
I've not been buying soda for the home - or I'm buying soda that isn't for me. For once, being picky has paid off. And because I am not good at absolutes - I haven't made soda completely "off limits". I feel free to indulge on special occasions or on days when I'm busy fighting other things. But overall, every day that I go without- I'm a little more capable of making it the next day.
In general, I've learned that we play lots of mind games with ourselves that aren't good for our self-esteem; at least in this case the mind games are helping me better myself. Best of luck to anyone else fighting the battle of the bulge / battle of the bubbly!
I just found this. Proof I'm on the right track!
Friday, October 30, 2009
Sometimes it's Not All About Me
Sometimes it is. Yesterday morning it was. I woke up at 6:30 with cramps. It was pouring rain outside. Like as in loud thunderstorms pouring. I laid in bed a minute thinking, "Ugh. I wish I didn't have to get up and go to work." And then I thought about what I had scheduled for the day (nothing) and how many sick days I have (lots) and I realized, "Yay! I'm not getting up and going to work!"
I sent a quick e-mail to the boss and co-workers, popped some ibuprofen, gathered up the heating pad, and went back to bed. It was fabulous. I woke up a time or two, still hurting, and went back to sleep. I didn't get up until 11:30.
By then, I was feeling better. I still lazed around most of the day though. Doncha love being sick enough to stay home, but not really sick enough to feel awful?
Thursday night is yoga class. You know, the class I love so much? It was still pouring out. My cramps were gone, but I still wasn't feeling like dragging myself out in the rain to go exercise.
I live in a town with an awesome Community Center. It's beautiful, fairly new, and has lots of great stuff going on. But some idiot came up with a new rule that if there are fewer than six people who show up for a class, they have to cancel class. Like with five people (plus instructor) sitting there, ready to go, hauled themselves away from home, families, work, whatever. Not six? No class. And what's even worse is, if this happens twice. Class is canceled, like forever!
So, I'm debating whether to get myself out in the rain, and I thought, "What if I'm the sixth person? What if I don't go, and only five show up, and class is called off? What if only five of us show next week too?! AAAGGGHHHH!!" I can't have that. So I went. And there were ten of us.
Anyway, I usually get there a bit early and walk around the track before class. I just really like soaking up the energy of all those people making healthy choices for themselves. Tonight there was a young mom pushing her baby in the stroller around the track. And an elderly couple walking laps together. Three young kids down on the mat trying to do push-ups just like Daddy. A big group of kids were playing basketball in the gym. There were the typical women on the elliptical machines with their water bottles and Ipods, trying to lose those last 10 pounds. And yes, there were the usual hot 20-something guys lifting barbells that weigh more than my entire body.
As I walked around and around and took in all the various scenes, I thought, "Could it be that some of these people need to soak up my energy too?" I'm all focusing on how much I need them. How much good it does me to be around so many health conscious people. But maybe there's someone there who looks for my face? Maybe my yoga instructor feeds of my energy during class? What if you guys are depending upon my post to help you along your own weight loss journey?
I don't know if I can take the pressure.
I might have to stop thinking about that. But, whatever, I went to yoga class. (And I posted a blog about it.) That's what matters.
Most Awesome Song I Heard While Working Out: "Settlin'" by Sugarland. "Had enough so-so for the rest of my life..." Fabulous! "Find what it means to be the girl who changed her mind and changed the world" Love it! Excellent song to get me pumped up.
I sent a quick e-mail to the boss and co-workers, popped some ibuprofen, gathered up the heating pad, and went back to bed. It was fabulous. I woke up a time or two, still hurting, and went back to sleep. I didn't get up until 11:30.
By then, I was feeling better. I still lazed around most of the day though. Doncha love being sick enough to stay home, but not really sick enough to feel awful?
Thursday night is yoga class. You know, the class I love so much? It was still pouring out. My cramps were gone, but I still wasn't feeling like dragging myself out in the rain to go exercise.
I live in a town with an awesome Community Center. It's beautiful, fairly new, and has lots of great stuff going on. But some idiot came up with a new rule that if there are fewer than six people who show up for a class, they have to cancel class. Like with five people (plus instructor) sitting there, ready to go, hauled themselves away from home, families, work, whatever. Not six? No class. And what's even worse is, if this happens twice. Class is canceled, like forever!
So, I'm debating whether to get myself out in the rain, and I thought, "What if I'm the sixth person? What if I don't go, and only five show up, and class is called off? What if only five of us show next week too?! AAAGGGHHHH!!" I can't have that. So I went. And there were ten of us.
Anyway, I usually get there a bit early and walk around the track before class. I just really like soaking up the energy of all those people making healthy choices for themselves. Tonight there was a young mom pushing her baby in the stroller around the track. And an elderly couple walking laps together. Three young kids down on the mat trying to do push-ups just like Daddy. A big group of kids were playing basketball in the gym. There were the typical women on the elliptical machines with their water bottles and Ipods, trying to lose those last 10 pounds. And yes, there were the usual hot 20-something guys lifting barbells that weigh more than my entire body.
As I walked around and around and took in all the various scenes, I thought, "Could it be that some of these people need to soak up my energy too?" I'm all focusing on how much I need them. How much good it does me to be around so many health conscious people. But maybe there's someone there who looks for my face? Maybe my yoga instructor feeds of my energy during class? What if you guys are depending upon my post to help you along your own weight loss journey?
I don't know if I can take the pressure.
I might have to stop thinking about that. But, whatever, I went to yoga class. (And I posted a blog about it.) That's what matters.
Most Awesome Song I Heard While Working Out: "Settlin'" by Sugarland. "Had enough so-so for the rest of my life..." Fabulous! "Find what it means to be the girl who changed her mind and changed the world" Love it! Excellent song to get me pumped up.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
The Good, The Bad and the Ugly (numbers)
Yesterday was our annual health assessment at work- a dreaded event. Staff may voluntarily make an appointment to take cholesterol levels, do a health assessment, body mass index, sleep scale and then get a general report on how you are doing with one of the wellness coaches.
The first year this was offered, I was very thankful. I was curious about some of these numbers - being young enough that no Dr. seemed to think they were important enough to investigate yet. Mostly, it was good news. Year two - I was mostly excited, after all - I had good results the first time. However, year two carried with it a comparison to last year. Overall, I was heading downhill in most regards.
So here comes year three - and obviously I'm not expecting a cheering crowd - since I'm participating in this weight loss blog. So the results are in. Last year, my goal was to drop 20 pounds. This year, it appears I was confused by my goal as I gained about 20 pounds. That's 20 pounds above what I thought was 20 pounds too high last year. OUCH. Now, this was not a shock to me - I've seen the numbers daily when I step on the scale. It just hurts to see it in print and to fess up to the failure / obvious lack of motivation for last years goal. Generally, in life - I don't try to suck at things that I've set as a goal. So we will consider this the ugly part of the report.
But, don't fear, I also had "good". My overall cholesterol went down. My good cholesterol went up AND my bad cholesterol went down like 20 points. Yeah me! I attribute this success to the eating of oatmeal cereals and cereal bars, an increase in high fiber items in my diet, and my heightened awareness of trying to avoid fried foods / high fat foods. Let me be clear, I am no saint - there have been french fries in my life from time to time. But generally, I've been more selective of my eating out choices (because it seems that those are always the loaded guns). If I don't LOVE the food - I've stopped eating it. After all, if it's bad for you and it's not really good enough to make your tummy do the happy dance - why do it? I have also tried to pump up the fruits and veggies - I think they always tell you to do better on that goal. Is it also possible that my choice replace most of my chocolate cravings with dark chocolate has also paid off? I'm going to believe in the power of dark chocolate.
And then there was the "bad". My stress levels were at an alarming level - uh, you think so? Life is crazy - so much is undone - death has greeted my family - and I have worries, you know? So this wasn't shocking - but I thought I was holding it together a bit better than my survey results suggested. And the whole body mass index thing - well, it's ugly and bad. I officially hit the "obese" category (by a fraction of a percentage - but still, it's there - right in my face). Apparently my body composition does not have enough water content - which is crazy to me because I drink 3 times as much as anyone else I know. And, they break down the number of pounds in your body that are fat and the number of pounds that are lean. I was pretty happy with the lean number - until I realized it wasn't a percentage. Then I was less pleased. And to see how many pounds of fat you are carrying around in print. Well, let's just say- if the average baby born weighs 6 lbs, then I could seriously give Kate a run for her money - b/c I'm carrying more than 8 - I'm closer to 10.5. If that was something to be proud of - I'd high five you in cyberspace. Sadly, it's not.
So to recap. What have we learned? 1. Don't set goals that involve numbers - just in case you get confused. (This years goal is to increase exercise. Yeah sticker chart.) 2. It appears that the small - though very good for me-exercise that I have been doing on my break time at work (in the free fitness center, I know, don't yell at me) has paid off in some regard - just not on the scale. 3. I'm carrying approximately 11 children worth of fat! (that will give me nightmares) 4. Little changes do matter and they inspire bigger changes. 5. Use the resources that you have and build on the things you are already doing well.
Next year, I plan on this post being titled "How I Rock - Officially with Data and Everything!" Until then...
The first year this was offered, I was very thankful. I was curious about some of these numbers - being young enough that no Dr. seemed to think they were important enough to investigate yet. Mostly, it was good news. Year two - I was mostly excited, after all - I had good results the first time. However, year two carried with it a comparison to last year. Overall, I was heading downhill in most regards.
So here comes year three - and obviously I'm not expecting a cheering crowd - since I'm participating in this weight loss blog. So the results are in. Last year, my goal was to drop 20 pounds. This year, it appears I was confused by my goal as I gained about 20 pounds. That's 20 pounds above what I thought was 20 pounds too high last year. OUCH. Now, this was not a shock to me - I've seen the numbers daily when I step on the scale. It just hurts to see it in print and to fess up to the failure / obvious lack of motivation for last years goal. Generally, in life - I don't try to suck at things that I've set as a goal. So we will consider this the ugly part of the report.
But, don't fear, I also had "good". My overall cholesterol went down. My good cholesterol went up AND my bad cholesterol went down like 20 points. Yeah me! I attribute this success to the eating of oatmeal cereals and cereal bars, an increase in high fiber items in my diet, and my heightened awareness of trying to avoid fried foods / high fat foods. Let me be clear, I am no saint - there have been french fries in my life from time to time. But generally, I've been more selective of my eating out choices (because it seems that those are always the loaded guns). If I don't LOVE the food - I've stopped eating it. After all, if it's bad for you and it's not really good enough to make your tummy do the happy dance - why do it? I have also tried to pump up the fruits and veggies - I think they always tell you to do better on that goal. Is it also possible that my choice replace most of my chocolate cravings with dark chocolate has also paid off? I'm going to believe in the power of dark chocolate.
And then there was the "bad". My stress levels were at an alarming level - uh, you think so? Life is crazy - so much is undone - death has greeted my family - and I have worries, you know? So this wasn't shocking - but I thought I was holding it together a bit better than my survey results suggested. And the whole body mass index thing - well, it's ugly and bad. I officially hit the "obese" category (by a fraction of a percentage - but still, it's there - right in my face). Apparently my body composition does not have enough water content - which is crazy to me because I drink 3 times as much as anyone else I know. And, they break down the number of pounds in your body that are fat and the number of pounds that are lean. I was pretty happy with the lean number - until I realized it wasn't a percentage. Then I was less pleased. And to see how many pounds of fat you are carrying around in print. Well, let's just say- if the average baby born weighs 6 lbs, then I could seriously give Kate a run for her money - b/c I'm carrying more than 8 - I'm closer to 10.5. If that was something to be proud of - I'd high five you in cyberspace. Sadly, it's not.
So to recap. What have we learned? 1. Don't set goals that involve numbers - just in case you get confused. (This years goal is to increase exercise. Yeah sticker chart.) 2. It appears that the small - though very good for me-exercise that I have been doing on my break time at work (in the free fitness center, I know, don't yell at me) has paid off in some regard - just not on the scale. 3. I'm carrying approximately 11 children worth of fat! (that will give me nightmares) 4. Little changes do matter and they inspire bigger changes. 5. Use the resources that you have and build on the things you are already doing well.
Next year, I plan on this post being titled "How I Rock - Officially with Data and Everything!" Until then...
Monday, October 26, 2009
Ignore the Woman Behind the Green Curtain
You know what I'm learning about how to have a successful weight loss blog? It helps if the author is actually losing weight. I mean, would you check in to get financial advice from someone who lived on the streets? Would you listen to a "relationship expert" currently on his fifth marriage? Probably not.
Yet here you are, reading my post anyway. Despite the backwards motion happening on my ticker these days. Bless you. Maybe this isn't so much a "weight loss" blog as a forum for sharing our struggles.
So, these are myexcuses reasons for what's happened. It's not an excuse. It's just the facts about what's been going on, and the results don't lie.
For one thing, Saturday was my birthday. And you know, you have to celebrate on your birthday, right? Calories don't count if it's your birthday? So, I went overboard there. Also, I had to work that same day. Had to work early. And I hadn't slept well the night before. And there was free food. Free Krispy Kreme donuts, free chocolate chip cookies, free popcorn. Lunch was even on the company dime.
I've learned that certain things don't mix well for me and my weight loss success. Being tired and stressed is a surefire way to find myself overindulging in sugar, fat, and caffeine. I know it's not right. I know a nice healthy snack of an apple and peanut butter would probably do more for my energy level. (Or just sleeping to begin with, but whatever.) But when I'm in that situation, exhausted and knowing I have a looooong day ahead, it seems like the best way to survive the day is a giant diet soda and some chocolate.
Plus, you know, it's been raining. So, I haven't walked for three days. (Ignore the treadmill behind the green curtain also.) X and I came home from buying groceries yesterday, and I lamented how we just couldn't walk today since it was pouring. About that time I looked up and saw two of my neighbor ladies walking down the road, as they do twice a day every day, both carrying umbrellas. I have an umbrella. I still didn't walk yesterday.
I did in fact have four "perfect days" in a row, where I followed my plan exactly. Then I had three days in a row where I did nothing. Missed my vitamin, didn't drink a drop of water, I mean, it was sad.
So, there you have it. This is why I find myself another year older, and not a pound lighter. Oh, and I have PMS. Which is a whole otherexcuse reason.
Yet here you are, reading my post anyway. Despite the backwards motion happening on my ticker these days. Bless you. Maybe this isn't so much a "weight loss" blog as a forum for sharing our struggles.
So, these are my
For one thing, Saturday was my birthday. And you know, you have to celebrate on your birthday, right? Calories don't count if it's your birthday? So, I went overboard there. Also, I had to work that same day. Had to work early. And I hadn't slept well the night before. And there was free food. Free Krispy Kreme donuts, free chocolate chip cookies, free popcorn. Lunch was even on the company dime.
I've learned that certain things don't mix well for me and my weight loss success. Being tired and stressed is a surefire way to find myself overindulging in sugar, fat, and caffeine. I know it's not right. I know a nice healthy snack of an apple and peanut butter would probably do more for my energy level. (Or just sleeping to begin with, but whatever.) But when I'm in that situation, exhausted and knowing I have a looooong day ahead, it seems like the best way to survive the day is a giant diet soda and some chocolate.
Plus, you know, it's been raining. So, I haven't walked for three days. (Ignore the treadmill behind the green curtain also.) X and I came home from buying groceries yesterday, and I lamented how we just couldn't walk today since it was pouring. About that time I looked up and saw two of my neighbor ladies walking down the road, as they do twice a day every day, both carrying umbrellas. I have an umbrella. I still didn't walk yesterday.
I did in fact have four "perfect days" in a row, where I followed my plan exactly. Then I had three days in a row where I did nothing. Missed my vitamin, didn't drink a drop of water, I mean, it was sad.
So, there you have it. This is why I find myself another year older, and not a pound lighter. Oh, and I have PMS. Which is a whole other
Thursday, October 22, 2009
What is Your Real Weigh Loss Goal?
I went to yoga tonight. It was awesome, but wow, I could sure tell I hadn't been for three weeks! The flexibility, strength, and balance were not up to my normal levels (which aren't fabulous anyway!). But still, it felt really good to go, and I am still super relaxed an hour later.
I heard somebody speak once about goals, and he/she (I honestly can't remember who on earth it was, but it's a common idea anyway) instructed us to think of something we want (like to lose 40 pounds). Then, think about how you think you'll feel once you have that. Your real goal is that you want to feel like that. Not necessarily the thing you think is going to make you feel that way.
So, this came to mind the other day, and I got to thinking, what feeling(s) do I truly want that I think losing weight/getting healthy/increasing my fitness is going to get me?
Of course, I'm human, and I tend to focus on the surface things first. If I were thinner, I'd look better. My clothes would fit. I'd enjoy shopping. I would imagine people would see me and think, "Wow! She's gorgeous!" (as opposed to, "Wow! Her boobs are HUGE!") So, the feeling at the root of wanting all that is, I want to feel confident in myself. And honestly, there are probably a lot of ways I can work toward achieving that which don't necessarily have anything to do with weight. Though they'd probably have an interesting side effect in that if I felt more confidence, I'd want to take better care of myself.
A more under the surface reason I want to get healthy is to have more energy. I want to wake up in the morning full of energy and excited about the day ahead (which, admittedly, may just not be within my DNA regardless of my weight!). At least, I'd like to have more energy once I get up and going. I want to feel like I can take a short walk, carry a heavy object, bend over, etc... without getting winded.
With this in mind, I'm trying to focus on my energy level throughout the day, and to think about certain activities, situations, and people that increase my energy or deplete it.
Yesterday, about halfway through my walk, listening to peppy music on the Ipod, I felt energetic. I made a mental note.
Today, during my walk, I felt like a slug. Just prior to this walk, I had eaten a huge serving of mashed potatoes that tasted yummy, but were actually oozing butter. I'm not kidding. Not like a pat of butter on top. A scoop of potatoes on my plate, and I could see butter seeping out of them. I'm thinking this could be one reason for my lethargic feeling.
Anyway, something to think about. I know I will continue to think about what I truly want from living a healthier lifestyle, and to take note of things that seem to help or hinder my efforts.
What about you? What is your real weight loss goal? How do you truly want to feel?
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Fessing Up
Okay, dear blogger friends I'm going to fess up. The reason I haven't been posting is because my diet is NOT going well. We did promise to post in good times and bad and this is my bad. Literally. First of all, the weight I lost has somehow managed to find me again. In all honesty I don't know how. I've really tried to eat better. Probably not as good as I should be but not enough to gain five pound in two days. Really makes me wonder about my body. I don't know how I do it.
My workout regime has not been great but it hasn't been bad either. I mean I don't sit on my ass all day and night. I actually do walk at least 3 days a week and play with my six year old son which gives me a good workout and if you knew my six year old son you would understand how much energy it takes to keep up with him. At any rate, tomorrow is a new day and I will keep trying. We got our ellipital machine at home fixed, finally, after being broke for 4 months. So, my new workout regime is going to include working out on it every morning for 20 minutes and every evening for 30 minutes. (At least five days a week)My non-meat is not going well. Mostly because we had our annual Murder Mystery Party on Saturday and my husband made ham. We have a lot of ham leftovers so I've been eating ham on a daily basis since Saturday. As soon as the ham is gone I will get back to a non-meat eating diet. Water is going okay. Although I didn't do well today at all with it but most days I'm doing anywhere between 40-60oz a day. So, now you know where I've been. Hopefully next time you hear from me I'll have more positive things to say. Thanks for sticking around and reading about my lack of accomplishments but I will perservere!
My workout regime has not been great but it hasn't been bad either. I mean I don't sit on my ass all day and night. I actually do walk at least 3 days a week and play with my six year old son which gives me a good workout and if you knew my six year old son you would understand how much energy it takes to keep up with him. At any rate, tomorrow is a new day and I will keep trying. We got our ellipital machine at home fixed, finally, after being broke for 4 months. So, my new workout regime is going to include working out on it every morning for 20 minutes and every evening for 30 minutes. (At least five days a week)My non-meat is not going well. Mostly because we had our annual Murder Mystery Party on Saturday and my husband made ham. We have a lot of ham leftovers so I've been eating ham on a daily basis since Saturday. As soon as the ham is gone I will get back to a non-meat eating diet. Water is going okay. Although I didn't do well today at all with it but most days I'm doing anywhere between 40-60oz a day. So, now you know where I've been. Hopefully next time you hear from me I'll have more positive things to say. Thanks for sticking around and reading about my lack of accomplishments but I will perservere!
Making Healthy Choices
Okay, I tried my first of the new Healthy Choice meals, Tomato Basil Penne, and I must admit, I'm not a fan. Inordinant amount of onions if you ask me. I had it for lunch, and I can still taste them. I don't like onions much though, so if you're an onion eater, try it and go wild.
However, my Wal-mart now has these meals for $1.68, and with my $2 coupons, I'm actually getting paid to eat them. So I bought another one today. This time Mediterranean Pasta. I'll let you know how that goes. It has something crazy like 12 grams of fiber.
I've been doing well with my goals. I've only missed one day of walking in the last week. And I'm doing better eating my fruit. I don't know if I can call it another "step" but I've also started taking a B complex vitamin (supposed to boost energy, help metabolism, and improve symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, which I do have very mildly). I'm also taking a fish oil supplement.
I'm doing the push ups and crunches about every three days. I can't tell much in my arms, but my abs are sore like all the time. I'm up to 75 crunches on the ball. My push ups have not increased at all, but honestly, I think my form was crap at the start, and now I'm focusing more on that. So, probably doing fewer correctly is more important anyway.
Kathy couldn't walk with me today, so I hit the track on my own. I even did a couple trips up and down the bleachers. I'm sure my thighs will scream tomorrow.
Most Awesome Song I Heard While Working Out "The Rumour" by Olivia Newton-John. LOVE this song. I love Olivia, regardless, but this is a little known gem of hers that always gets me in a good mood. Elton John wrote it. It's fabulous. If you're not familiar, click on the link and you can listen to a snippet. The video is adorable too. It won't let me embed it, so click here to see.
However, my Wal-mart now has these meals for $1.68, and with my $2 coupons, I'm actually getting paid to eat them. So I bought another one today. This time Mediterranean Pasta. I'll let you know how that goes. It has something crazy like 12 grams of fiber.
I've been doing well with my goals. I've only missed one day of walking in the last week. And I'm doing better eating my fruit. I don't know if I can call it another "step" but I've also started taking a B complex vitamin (supposed to boost energy, help metabolism, and improve symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, which I do have very mildly). I'm also taking a fish oil supplement.
I'm doing the push ups and crunches about every three days. I can't tell much in my arms, but my abs are sore like all the time. I'm up to 75 crunches on the ball. My push ups have not increased at all, but honestly, I think my form was crap at the start, and now I'm focusing more on that. So, probably doing fewer correctly is more important anyway.
Kathy couldn't walk with me today, so I hit the track on my own. I even did a couple trips up and down the bleachers. I'm sure my thighs will scream tomorrow.
Most Awesome Song I Heard While Working Out "The Rumour" by Olivia Newton-John. LOVE this song. I love Olivia, regardless, but this is a little known gem of hers that always gets me in a good mood. Elton John wrote it. It's fabulous. If you're not familiar, click on the link and you can listen to a snippet. The video is adorable too. It won't let me embed it, so click here to see.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
(Almost) Free Healthy Choice Dinners!
I'm feeling a bit better than I was last week after my weigh-in. Today I'm down 1.2 lbs. and my body fat percentage went down a hair also. I felt like I did really well this week. I walked every day, had my fruit most days, drank my water, took my vitamins.
It is probably about time to add another Baby Step to my regimen, but I still don't quite feel like I've mastered the ones I'm doing, so I'm holding off. And I'm not entirely sure which step to add. I generally eat a lot of vegetables anyway, so I'm good there. I don't eat a lot of meat. I eat salmon, tuna, beans, nuts, chicken, those healthier protein options, more often than any other meat already. I only drink skim milk. I can start going to yoga again this week since my long string of working Thursday evenings ended, so that will be good for me I'm sure. I've missed it a lot.
So, if anyone has a brilliant idea for my next Baby Step, let me know. Polls close at noon next Saturday.
Thought I'd share also, I posted the link to the $2 off Healthy Choice coupon earlier. I've discovered that you can, in fact, print off more than one coupon. It'll let you. Plus, it's $2 off ONE Healthy Choice frozen meal. Not like when you get $1 off and think that's awesome, only to realize it's $1 off FIVE. My Wal-mart usually has the HC meals for $2.50, so this is darn near getting them free! Yay!
It is probably about time to add another Baby Step to my regimen, but I still don't quite feel like I've mastered the ones I'm doing, so I'm holding off. And I'm not entirely sure which step to add. I generally eat a lot of vegetables anyway, so I'm good there. I don't eat a lot of meat. I eat salmon, tuna, beans, nuts, chicken, those healthier protein options, more often than any other meat already. I only drink skim milk. I can start going to yoga again this week since my long string of working Thursday evenings ended, so that will be good for me I'm sure. I've missed it a lot.
So, if anyone has a brilliant idea for my next Baby Step, let me know. Polls close at noon next Saturday.
Thought I'd share also, I posted the link to the $2 off Healthy Choice coupon earlier. I've discovered that you can, in fact, print off more than one coupon. It'll let you. Plus, it's $2 off ONE Healthy Choice frozen meal. Not like when you get $1 off and think that's awesome, only to realize it's $1 off FIVE. My Wal-mart usually has the HC meals for $2.50, so this is darn near getting them free! Yay!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Surviving Lunch at Your Desk
I have to believe that I am not the only one in the world that begins to daydream about Taco Bell, burgers, and a variety of drive thru windows as the clock creeps up to noon. I know I'm not alone here - occasionally I see some of you in the drive thru lane. And let's face it you can only eat SO many sandwiches before it will drive you - well to the nearest drive thru. You see I think part of the reason that I'm in this boat is because there is so much good-bad food that I enjoy - and sometimes good-good food is hard to find, expensive, or hard to have on hand- it requires a lot of though. You have to shop for the good stuff, you have to pack the good stuff, and finally the food has to be good enough that you actually WANT to eat it when lunch time rolls around. So I'm working on building my food vocabulary to include lower cal choices that offer good nutrition.
You already know that I am a trans fat freak! You also know that I'm pretty picky about bread - but short of these criteria, I can't claim to being a nutrition wiz. So I think we should bond together to share our best, low cal, ideas for feeding our bodies well while at work. I'll get us started with a few...
Laughing Cow Cheese - these little cheese wedges come in a light variety. It even comes in some flavors. At 35 calories a serving - it packs a punch! I have tried it on Toasted English Muffins and today I even tried it on a Blueberry Bagel (not the best bread choice - but a weakness). In both cases, it tasted great and I found it more filling than cream cheese. I also think it would be great on a sandwich to replace both cheese and mayo. So it's a small change that has helped me to lower my calorie intake while feeling satisfied.
Bumble Bee Sensations - This tuna kit comes with a seasoned tuna can and crackers. I tried the Sundried Tomato & Basil, yum. At 200 calories - you get the good fish benefits (yes this brand is dolphin safe too) and it was quite filling, quick, and didn't even need a fridge.
Quaker Oatmeal Squares - I'm not a big oatmeal person. I wish I was. It makes me queasy in the tummy -texture issues. But this cereal (that I eat dry for snacks, in self made trail mix, and sometimes even as cereal with milk) is so good. You can eat a full cup - 210 calories, no high fructose syrup, no trans fats, and 5 g of fiber. I use to think this was an expensive cereal choice - but when you break it down by serving, it's really no worse than most of the snack foods that I buy without thinking twice about it.
Of course, fruits and veggies are on the list. But honestly there are very few that I love while sitting at my desk. I do love Kiwi - with the slice it in half and scoop it out method, it's very brown bag friendly. Bananna travel well. And cherub tomatoes are super yummy and so low cal that they almost don't count- another food that requires no fridge. I do try to sneak in some dried fruits as long as I can find them without any of the icky chemicals / ingredients that I consider dealbreakers. I have also found a wonderful dried pomegranite covered in dark chocolate - they are too sweet to overindulge on and since both are considered the best of their respective food groups (yes, I consider chocolate a food group). So I've removed my usual bite sized chocolate candies and replaced them with these little treasures.
So there's a few of the staple items that are helping me to eat better and wiser. I'm sure that if we all share a trick or two - we'll all be loaded up with healthy food choices that will be so satisfying that the drive thru lanes will be empty.
You already know that I am a trans fat freak! You also know that I'm pretty picky about bread - but short of these criteria, I can't claim to being a nutrition wiz. So I think we should bond together to share our best, low cal, ideas for feeding our bodies well while at work. I'll get us started with a few...
Laughing Cow Cheese - these little cheese wedges come in a light variety. It even comes in some flavors. At 35 calories a serving - it packs a punch! I have tried it on Toasted English Muffins and today I even tried it on a Blueberry Bagel (not the best bread choice - but a weakness). In both cases, it tasted great and I found it more filling than cream cheese. I also think it would be great on a sandwich to replace both cheese and mayo. So it's a small change that has helped me to lower my calorie intake while feeling satisfied.
Bumble Bee Sensations - This tuna kit comes with a seasoned tuna can and crackers. I tried the Sundried Tomato & Basil, yum. At 200 calories - you get the good fish benefits (yes this brand is dolphin safe too) and it was quite filling, quick, and didn't even need a fridge.
Quaker Oatmeal Squares - I'm not a big oatmeal person. I wish I was. It makes me queasy in the tummy -texture issues. But this cereal (that I eat dry for snacks, in self made trail mix, and sometimes even as cereal with milk) is so good. You can eat a full cup - 210 calories, no high fructose syrup, no trans fats, and 5 g of fiber. I use to think this was an expensive cereal choice - but when you break it down by serving, it's really no worse than most of the snack foods that I buy without thinking twice about it.
Of course, fruits and veggies are on the list. But honestly there are very few that I love while sitting at my desk. I do love Kiwi - with the slice it in half and scoop it out method, it's very brown bag friendly. Bananna travel well. And cherub tomatoes are super yummy and so low cal that they almost don't count- another food that requires no fridge. I do try to sneak in some dried fruits as long as I can find them without any of the icky chemicals / ingredients that I consider dealbreakers. I have also found a wonderful dried pomegranite covered in dark chocolate - they are too sweet to overindulge on and since both are considered the best of their respective food groups (yes, I consider chocolate a food group). So I've removed my usual bite sized chocolate candies and replaced them with these little treasures.
So there's a few of the staple items that are helping me to eat better and wiser. I'm sure that if we all share a trick or two - we'll all be loaded up with healthy food choices that will be so satisfying that the drive thru lanes will be empty.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Checking In...plus Plot Your Walk and a Bonus Healthy Choice Coupon!
Okay, time to fess up. I weighed Sunday. I didn't like what it said, so I didn't post it. But, I promised to post triumphs and trials, so here goes. I was back up to 161.4. However, in my defense, I worked all day Saturday and ate crappy stuff and didn't work out. So my plan was to give myself another day and get back on track, then weigh again. Then I woke up not feeling well Monday and Tuesday, and I just never weighed again. So, I guess that's my "official" weigh-in for the week. Let's hope next week is better.
I'm using my sticker chart, (Here's to external motivation! Yay!) and I do truly think it helps me to actually be able to see what I did or didn't do. Seems that
if I'm gonna skip anything, I skip eating my fruit. And unfortunately I've found that on days I don't eat my fruit for breakfast, the rest of the day kind of goes to pot. Seems like that healthy start really does set the tone for the rest of my day. So, must work on getting that fruit in first thing!
Also, it occurred to me that you might be interested to know what Kathy was referring to when she asked if I used "that website" to see how long our walk was. There's a great site here that lets you actually see the streets in your town and plot where exactly you walk. As you plot your various turning points, it calculates how far you've gone. Very cool!
And last, but not least, Healthy Choice is offering a $2 off coupon online. I saw this on Biggest Loser last night. I have mixed feelings about that show, but maybe that's a post for another day!
I'm using my sticker chart, (Here's to external motivation! Yay!) and I do truly think it helps me to actually be able to see what I did or didn't do. Seems that
if I'm gonna skip anything, I skip eating my fruit. And unfortunately I've found that on days I don't eat my fruit for breakfast, the rest of the day kind of goes to pot. Seems like that healthy start really does set the tone for the rest of my day. So, must work on getting that fruit in first thing!
Also, it occurred to me that you might be interested to know what Kathy was referring to when she asked if I used "that website" to see how long our walk was. There's a great site here that lets you actually see the streets in your town and plot where exactly you walk. As you plot your various turning points, it calculates how far you've gone. Very cool!
And last, but not least, Healthy Choice is offering a $2 off coupon online. I saw this on Biggest Loser last night. I have mixed feelings about that show, but maybe that's a post for another day!
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Yay! Our First Blog Award!
Life (meaning work mostly) has been so crazy lately, not only have I not been posting, but I haven't been reading much either. So, imagine my joy when I sat down today to catch up on all your fabulous blogs and found this:
left for us by Tara at A Perfect Version of Myself. The rules are to list 10 things about myself that my readers don't know. Then I have to tag 10 other blogs I think deserve the award. I'm listing health/weight/fitness related things, just to keep in the theme of the blog. Maybe Regina and E.G. will post their ten soon? (hint hint!)
1. Every time I've lost a significant amount of weight in my life, it sort of just fell off. It wasn't difficult, and I didn't work at it. For whatever reason, it just came off. I wish I knew how to recreate whatever causes this.
2. I was really tall and thin as a child. My mom had to buy me the "slim" jeans. Somehow I stopped getting taller in 4th grade (and 25 years later am short and dumpy).
3. I took gymnastics for a while during junior high.
4. I was an alternate on the dance squad in high school.
5. I used to be a really good water skiier too.
6. I am almost a vegetarian, but when I've tried to officially be vegetarian, I find myself craving meat so much that I "give in" and eat it more often than I would have normally eaten it. So I don't try now.
7. I found out a couple years ago that I have high cholesterol.
8. I have terrible insomnia. Part of me is convinced I'd be thin if only I could actually sleep.
9. One of my favorite treats is eating raw chocolate chip cookie dough. I know this can cause salmonella. I believe it's worth it.
10. Brocolli is my favorite vegetable. When I was a kid, you couldn't have paid me enough to eat brocolli.
Now, theten nine blogs I tag:
Mary of A Merry Life
Jess of Losing More Than My Mind
Jack of Jack Sh*t Gettin Fit
A Fat [Free] Me
The Chub Fight
Jill at Twenty Something Weight Loss
Lorrie of The Token Fat Girl
Hollie of Hollie's Weight Loss Blog
Tara (again)
Those are all the weight loss blogs we're following so far. If anyone has an awesome weight loss blog we just HAVE to follow, tell us so!
left for us by Tara at A Perfect Version of Myself. The rules are to list 10 things about myself that my readers don't know. Then I have to tag 10 other blogs I think deserve the award. I'm listing health/weight/fitness related things, just to keep in the theme of the blog. Maybe Regina and E.G. will post their ten soon? (hint hint!)
1. Every time I've lost a significant amount of weight in my life, it sort of just fell off. It wasn't difficult, and I didn't work at it. For whatever reason, it just came off. I wish I knew how to recreate whatever causes this.
2. I was really tall and thin as a child. My mom had to buy me the "slim" jeans. Somehow I stopped getting taller in 4th grade (and 25 years later am short and dumpy).
3. I took gymnastics for a while during junior high.
4. I was an alternate on the dance squad in high school.
5. I used to be a really good water skiier too.
6. I am almost a vegetarian, but when I've tried to officially be vegetarian, I find myself craving meat so much that I "give in" and eat it more often than I would have normally eaten it. So I don't try now.
7. I found out a couple years ago that I have high cholesterol.
8. I have terrible insomnia. Part of me is convinced I'd be thin if only I could actually sleep.
9. One of my favorite treats is eating raw chocolate chip cookie dough. I know this can cause salmonella. I believe it's worth it.
10. Brocolli is my favorite vegetable. When I was a kid, you couldn't have paid me enough to eat brocolli.
Now, the
Mary of A Merry Life
Jess of Losing More Than My Mind
Jack of Jack Sh*t Gettin Fit
A Fat [Free] Me
The Chub Fight
Jill at Twenty Something Weight Loss
Lorrie of The Token Fat Girl
Hollie of Hollie's Weight Loss Blog
Tara (again)
Those are all the weight loss blogs we're following so far. If anyone has an awesome weight loss blog we just HAVE to follow, tell us so!
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Thank God It's Sunday
At least I'm down this week, even if it's only 0.4 pounds. However, I'm quite happy to see my fat % actually go down this time. So, I'm feeling like, even though I only lost a tiny bit, what I did lose must have actually been FAT! Yay!
I think the push ups and crunches are helping. Plus I went to yoga Thursday, and I actually went to a yoga for kids workshop yesterday also as part of the training I attended. Not like a "real" yoga class, but we did do some poses.
I have literally eaten anything I wanted all week, so to lose any at all is good. I had to work late two nights this week, and then worked Saturday also, so it was a looooong week. When I have times like that, I kind of just have to do whatever I have to do to survive. Caffeine, chocolate, sugar, fat, it's not about making healthy choices. I know it should be, but it's not. It's about staying awake and making it through the day.
I have skipped walking the last two days, and I definitely need to get back into that starting today. Really though, after walking 2-3 miles a day for a whole week, I think I deserved a day or two off from that.
I'm just thrilled to actually have two days off work now (I'm taking Monday off to make up for Saturday). And I don't have much planned. Not like having to be anywhere, no responsibilities, nobody expecting anything of me, that kind of thing. I have a couple projects around the house, some movies I need to watch and take back to Blockbuster, Young and the Restless on the DVR to catch up on. You know, serious business.
But I also plan to walk and do my sit ups and crunches. And maybe actually like cook some food. That'll be neat.
I think the push ups and crunches are helping. Plus I went to yoga Thursday, and I actually went to a yoga for kids workshop yesterday also as part of the training I attended. Not like a "real" yoga class, but we did do some poses.
I have literally eaten anything I wanted all week, so to lose any at all is good. I had to work late two nights this week, and then worked Saturday also, so it was a looooong week. When I have times like that, I kind of just have to do whatever I have to do to survive. Caffeine, chocolate, sugar, fat, it's not about making healthy choices. I know it should be, but it's not. It's about staying awake and making it through the day.
I have skipped walking the last two days, and I definitely need to get back into that starting today. Really though, after walking 2-3 miles a day for a whole week, I think I deserved a day or two off from that.
I'm just thrilled to actually have two days off work now (I'm taking Monday off to make up for Saturday). And I don't have much planned. Not like having to be anywhere, no responsibilities, nobody expecting anything of me, that kind of thing. I have a couple projects around the house, some movies I need to watch and take back to Blockbuster, Young and the Restless on the DVR to catch up on. You know, serious business.
But I also plan to walk and do my sit ups and crunches. And maybe actually like cook some food. That'll be neat.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Kathy's Trying to Kill Me
She suggested a new walking route today, and I kid you not, it was over 3 miles and entirely uphill. My 20 minute walking goal has morphed into closer to a full hour this week thanks to Kathy. And boy my legs are feeling it.
I'm also feeling my crunches seriously today. I've now done three days (separated by a day of rest in between). I haven't increased much, but then I changed it up and started doing the crunches on my ball. So, I'm not really comparing the same thing. I'd make a terrible scientist. I get bored and keep changing variables.
Unfortunately work has been crazy stressful, so my eating has suffered. Also, that dreaded PMS/Alien Invasion thing happening. Today I've had two and a half peanut butter cookies, one dark chocolate Reese's, a tiny Milky Way, and a tiny Three Musketeers. And it's barely 3:30. Oh, and they were giving out free Vault energy drinks where I work, so I'm having one of those. So far, not impressed.
I work Saturday, so my weigh-in will be Sunday. Here's hoping it's more positive than the last two weeks have been!
I'm also feeling my crunches seriously today. I've now done three days (separated by a day of rest in between). I haven't increased much, but then I changed it up and started doing the crunches on my ball. So, I'm not really comparing the same thing. I'd make a terrible scientist. I get bored and keep changing variables.
Unfortunately work has been crazy stressful, so my eating has suffered. Also, that dreaded PMS/Alien Invasion thing happening. Today I've had two and a half peanut butter cookies, one dark chocolate Reese's, a tiny Milky Way, and a tiny Three Musketeers. And it's barely 3:30. Oh, and they were giving out free Vault energy drinks where I work, so I'm having one of those. So far, not impressed.
I work Saturday, so my weigh-in will be Sunday. Here's hoping it's more positive than the last two weeks have been!
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