I'm trapped under something heavy . . .

Seriously . . . a 30,000 page project at work that unfortunately has me sitting on my rear end all day long.

We should be finished by year's end - and I'll be back and ready to start the new year off right.

See you soon!!!

Monday's Topic: Food Safety!

Hungry Girl sent out information about an important food recall and a new website that will update us on food safety issues.

First of all, 3 Lean Cuisine meals were recalled:

• LEAN CUISINE Café Classics Pesto Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta
  
• LEAN CUISINE Spa Cuisine Chicken Mediterranean
  
• LEAN CUISINE Dinnertime Selects Chicken Tuscan
  

For more information on this recall, click HERE and HERE. Make sure to share this information with your friends!


Also - she informed us of a new website USFoodSafety.com that informs us of any important food safety issues. You can even subscribe to get free e-mail updates!

So be safe! Happy Monday everyone!

Getting Motivated - YOU CAN DO IT TOO!!

One of my favorite motivational bloggers posted some GREAT ideas on how to get motivated to work out and keep at it.




His tips included:

• Work out at a consistent time every day. Many people say it takes at least 21 days (3 weeks) to form a habit. So get a calendar - decide on a time you will do this every day and start marking it off until it is second nature!!


• The Power of Positive thinking . . . VISUALIZE yourself having an awesome workout - and then make that dream come true!


• Uh-oh, have you been bad? Did you miss a workout? We teach our children that bad choices have consequences, so why don't our own? Create a punishment for yourself for when you miss a workout and find someone to hold you to it! For me, since my hubby does all the housework (Gosh, I love him) I would need to owe him by cooking dinner, doing dishes, cleaning the bathrooms, etc. and I would ask him to hold me accountable - because if we don't follow through on our punishments then we won't learn!!


• Having trouble getting started? Just tell yourself to do a few exercises and then you can quit if you want. I've noticed that once I start, I get more determined to finish at least 30 minutes - so JUST START. Stop making excuses! (Yes, I'm talking to myself here.)


• Support is a huge thing on completing goals - so find a workout buddy or create an online blog and TELL PEOPLE your struggles and your successes. Putting yourself out there can be a great motivator, because you don't want to let your workout buddy (or the entire online community who just might be reading your blog) down.


• JAM! Create a workout playlist and turn it UP!


• Did you workouts all week? Reward yourself! (NOT WITH FOOD!) Rent a movie that YOU have always wanted to watch, take some time for yourself, play a game with the kids, etc.


• KEEP TRACK OF EVERYTHING. I know that when I keep track of what I eat and how often I exercise, it is a great motivator. PLUS - you should keep track of your goals, your rewards for meeting them, and your punishments for when you don't!

Thank you Mark for those great tips! I'm getting it on this RIGHT NOW for myself!! How about you??

See Mark's entire post here: http://blog.marksalinas.com/2008/11/19/workout-motivation/

The Toaster Pastry War

I love Pop-Tarts. I always have. I used to love going to my friend Michelle's house as a child because her mom always had CHOCOLATE POP-TARTS. (Of course, I NEVER ate the last one because of a scary story they told about what happened to those who dared to eat the last chocolate Pop-Tart . . .)

Anyway . . . the other day while strolling the aisles of the grocery store - I found something that excited me! Fiber One Chocolate Fudge Toaster Pastries. Could it be? Could I have found a healthier alternative for my beloved Pop-Tarts?

Well - let's check out the nutritional information:

Well, it still isn't the BEST choice - but Fiber One's version does have less calories, less sugar, less fat, less sodium and less carbs - and it also has potassium, more fiber, and more protein.

So as a treat - it might work for breakfreast some mornings, but it can't be something I eat every day. And I can only eat ONE at a time (what a bummer that they package them in twos.)

I do have to say though - I tried them and they are really good. You can tell that they have more fiber in them, but I've started to really like that nutrititious FIBER BUZZ I get when eating food with added fiber. Again I caution you though - don't eat a lot of fiber before bed!!!

Have a great Thursday - the week is almost over!!!

Foods that help with stress!

I found this post that discusses 10 foods that can help with stress . . . alas, chocolate isn't on this list. But these things are:

1. Blueberries - Vitamin C is supposed to help your body deal with stress and Fiber regulates blood sugar levels.
2. Skim milk - high in protein and Vitamin B to protect nerve health, and protein to stabilize blood sugar levels.
3. Oranges - more Vitamin C!
4. Brown Rice - B Vitamins, fiber, and serotonin producing carbs.
5. Green Vegetables - filled with vitamins - and many contain potassium which can help calm nerves.
6. Dried Apricots - Vitamin C, Fiber and stress-busting magnesium.
7. Turkey - contains L-Tryptophan which is documented as a calming agent. (Which would be why we all fall asleep after thanksgiving dinner!)
8. Soy - Add foods with soy to your diet, soy contains B vitamins, protein, calcium AND magnesium.
9. Sweet Potatoes - they can help curb your craving for sweet stuff and they are high in fiber and other vitamins!
10. Water - even mild dehydration can cause your body to stress. Plus - water can curb the urge to eat something fattening!

And some studies have shown that a little chocolate CAN be good for you (especially dark chocolate) - so if you have to give in to it . . . just give in a little bit.


How about you? Do you know of any other stress reducing foods?

Any ideas on how to deal with stress?

(image from http://sevendaymother.com/2008/10/12/what-i-learned-from-stress/)

Yes, I am still here and still with you. I didn't do any "formal" workouts over the weekend - but I did a lot of cleaning, and a lot of pacing . . .

Over the past month my daughter was in the hospital with pneumonia, my Dad had a heart attack, and last night I had to take my hubby to the ER - they diagnosed him with Bell's Palsy. It is treatable and will hopefully get better really soon. But I am SO SICK of hospitals and the stress that comes with them!

So - what do you do to DE-stress? At this point in my life, it is impossible to AVOID it - but I have to learn to DEAL with it . . . WITHOUT turning to the refrigerator and it's trusty chocolate goodness. ;-)

I'm going to be looking for inspiration over the course of this week on dealing with stress - but I would love your input as well!!

Happy Monday!

How to eat Heart Healthy and other things . . .

Due to my Dad's episodes this past week, I'm educating myself on eating diabetic friendly and heart healthy. It is difficult for people who eat out quite often to change their habits and start eating a healthier diet. I found a couple of really good websites that can help with this:




This link gives great tips on how to eat out and still make heart healthy choices. Here are some of their main tips (paraphrased) for eating out:

• Study the menu and ASK how foods are prepared. Don't be afraid, it's your health!


• Ask for substitutions, many times you can get margarine instead of butter or skim milk instead of whole. ASK!
  
• Ask for salad dressings and sauces ON THE SIDE and order LIGHT when available.


• Experiment with lemon juice or vinegar and oil instead of salad dressing.


• Skip the mayo or get it on the side - use mustard or ketchup instead.


• Ditch the french fries and dive into the veggies!
  
• Get a veggie pizza with half the cheese and extra sauce.


• Sometimes, plain is good . . . order a regular hamburger or broiled chicken and skip the toppings/sauces. Although it may bum you out in the beginning - it is better than the alternative, and you can grow to like it!


• For dessert - try frozen yogurt, sherbet, jell-o or fresh fruit!


• Try splitting your meal with your dining companion. Or ask for a box when you first get your meal so you can put half of it away for the next day. That way you aren't tempted to overeat.

And what about diabetic friendly foods? The Mayo Clinic site has some simple tips for eating healthy as a diabetic. Many of the tips are the same as eating heart healthy - don't be afraid to ask for substitutions, watch your portion sizes and get sauces/dressings on the side. The principles of diabetes nutrition are really quite simple:

• Variety! Eat a variety of HEALTHY foods.


• Limit fat and salt.


• Watch portion sizes.
  
• Eat at the same time every day.


• You don't have to skip dessert! Just plan for it and keep track of your carbs!


• Most important: Follow the guidelines given to you by your doctor!
  

It is all about making a change in your lifestyle and STICKING TO IT. We all CAN do this if we really try.

Be sure to check out the links above for more great information - and even if you don't have heart issues or diabetes - following these tips are good for all of us!!

3 days in a row!

I completed DAY THREE of working out 30 minutes. Woohoo!!

I have decided that my favorite exercise on the Wii Fit is the Rhythm Boxing.


I did 10 minutes on the expert level this morning and I was sweating by the time I was done. My new "plan" is to do cardio every other day and strength training on the off days. I try to do a little bit of yoga at the end every day.

Here's hoping my scales start being nice to me again. :-)

So what about you? Do you have a plan? Don't wait until the first of the year - start NOW! The holidays can add pounds to your body and you'll have to work that much harder to get them back off!!

Make a plan and start TODAY!!

Yay for the breakfast sandwich!

Yesterday I tried the new Weight Watchers SmartOnes Morning Express Canadian Style Bacon English Muffin Sandwich (boy, that's a long description!)

I have to say - I loved it!!! As the box says, it is only 4 Points. Nutritional Information: 210 calories, 6 grams of fat, 2 grams of fiber and 14 grams of protein.

It's a good and quick way to start the day. Check it out!!!

What's it gonna take to change?

Every now and then . . . you have a wake up call that makes you go . . . okay - I have GOT to do something about my health. You would think I've had enough of them lately - but bad habits are so easy to fall back into. Admittedly - I did just that. I had lost almost 30 pounds and then just got stuck. I stayed at the same weight for so long . . . I gave up. BAD ME.

Then, I had to go back to the doctor . . . and my cholesterol hadn't changed from a year before. So I got put on cholesterol medicine. And my GERD had been acting up again, so I got back on medicine for that. I HATE being on medication. Did that wake me up? Nope. The M&M gods still called to me and won out over every thing else.

And then . . . my pants started to get tight again. Did that wake me up? A little bit - I tried eating better at least half of the time . . . but I still was not being a good girl. Not even close.

So what did it take?

Last Thursday morning, my SuperStepMommy called me from the hospital. My Daddy was having chest pain and they admitted him. Ends up - he had a mild heart attack, but it could have been much worse. He had 95% blockage in one of his arteries and 70% in another. They put in a medicated (or coated) stent to open up his artery. He was very lucky. It scared him. And me . . .

And that is what it took. I'm back on track - and I'm determined to stay there. So I can stay here . . . for my kids and my family. For my Dad.

(Yeah, he's silly . . .)

This week I'm focusing on keeping track of what I eat and drinking water. I also got back on the horse (or the Wii Fit) and did 30 minutes tonight. Why I ever stopped, I don't know. It is so much fun and it makes me sweat!

So here I go . . . back to my journey of change . . . with a new reason and a new goal . . . a new ME! :-)

Quick Update

Life has been so full of stress the past month - but I CAN see a light at the end of the tunnel. I'm still hanging in there - and I will get back into blogging and updating my progress soon. But sometimes - you have to take care of yourself and your family and the internet world just has to have faith that you'll be back.

And I will be - I promise . . . and while you're waiting - visit a few of my favorite haunts . . .

http://mizfitonline.com/
http://shoutinfromtherooftop.com/

See you soon!

Walking Wednesday

Today I challenge everyone to walk a little farther than you normally would. Park out in the middle of nowhere at the store and "book it" to the door. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk around the neighborhood and wave to your neighbors. Do SOMETHING!!!

Yesterday I walked quite a bit more than normal. My boss and I walked to the nearby restaurant instead of driving for lunch (it was Mexican, we NEEDED the walk . . .). I walked to my friends house to give her something instead of driving. Later on that evening - we walked for over an hour. The weather was so beautiful, we didn't want to come inside!

So - today I hope you'll take my challenge to WALK WALK WALK!!!

Happy Wednesday . . . Friday is coming, so hang on!!!!

Tuesdays Update on Move It Monday

Workout Mommy is no longer my friend. Ha ha. Just kidding. But I seriously thought I was going to die . . .

Here is what I attempted last night:

1. March or jog in place
2. 25 squats
3. Run up/down a flight of stairs 10 times.
4. 15 push ups
5. 25 lunges on right leg only
6. 15 push ups
7. 25 lunges on left leg only
8. 25 mountain climbers
9. 20 squat kicks
10. Breathe!
11. Finish off with 25 crunches, 2 sets

Here is what I did:

1. Marched around the room like an idiot while my cats looked at me like I was deranged
2. Did 2 squats and remembered how much I hated them - but finished all 25 anyway
3. Attempted to run up and down the stairs quietly (the kids were in bed) - and made it 3 times before my knees started screaming at me and I decided maybe it was a little too much too fast . .
4. I did my 15 pushups - and started sweating
5. I did 25 modified dance-type lunges on one leg - because my knee was really mad at me by this time and was not capable of doing real lunges
6. I thought about doing 15 more pushups - and then I thought - NAAAH - let's do more lunges on the other leg!
7. I did my 25 modified lunges on the other leg. (Modified means EASIER AND LESS PAINFUL!)
8. I did 25 mountain climbers - which are actually quite fun!
9. I did 20 squat kicks which were also pretty fun - but my husband started looking at me like I was nuts at this point.
10. I stopped to breathe and didn't get up.
11. I did my crunches before bed.
12. I spent the evening thinking of ways to get even with the woman whose words motivated me to almost kill myself with fitness . . .

Today - I'm sticking to walking!!! Happy Tuesday!!

Move It Monday with the Workout Mommy

Thanks to the Workout Mommy I have an inspiration to get moving today. It may kill me - but I'm going to try it!!

MOVE IT MONDAY!

Come on - try it with me!!!

Happy Monday Everyone!!

Getting back to the way I'm supposed to be

It's been a stressful few months for me - but I am finally starting to get my head above water again. I did a pretty good job of maintaining during all of this - which is huge fore me, I would usually eat myself into oblivion.

Last week was my worst eating week since March 1st when I started this journey. And as an exercise in WAKING MYSELF UP I figured up how many calories I had eaten - it was NOT GOOD. So, I'm back to tracking everything I eat and trying to get at least 30 minutes of exercise into my day.

I appreciate those of you who have checked on me or given me encouragement during this time. I could do not do this without all the support.

Happy Tuesday everyone!

New Not Too Unhealthy but COOL Food Find.

Okay . . . I have to say up front that I am not a big coffee fan. I love the smell of it, and I'll drink a mocha every now and then if I really need a kick of caffeine - but honestly, I LOOOVE Hot Chocolate. It is my favorite.

Well - the other day while perusing the grocery store, I found THIS:

You probably can't read the little ribbon but it says, "With as much Caffeine as a Cup of Coffee"! WOOHOO!! I snapped it up. The taste is pretty good (no Starbucks hot chocolate, but hey) and the nutritional information isn't as bad as I thought it would be:

Calories:110
Fat: 2g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
And 30% Calcium!

So now I have a yummy beverage to help wake me up in the morning!!! (And I found this at Marsh - but they probably have it at Wal-mart, etc.)

What do you use to wake up in the morning? Tell me! I want to know!

Surviving the party onslaught

So somehow - I'm still maintaining after an anniversary and several birthday parties in a 2 week period.

I am back to tracking my food and I did quite well yesterday. I'm sincerely hoping that my body is so used to this weight that it is ready to LOSE again.

I am surprised I haven't gained, as I have been under more stress than I've been under in a long time. And stress and my body don't get along very well.

Happy Tuesday everyone!

Yes I am alive

Still maintaining and not losing, but it is better than gaining.

I've been literally DROWNING at work - but I am starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel and I hope I'll be able to get back into the groove of tracking my food, working out regularly, and posting updates on here.

Don't give up on me! I'll be back!!

But today - I am celebrating.

Happy Monday everyone.

How I got exercise last night . . .

Does jumping around for 2 hours screaming your head off in a hot fieldhouse count as exercise??

I think so.(American Idols Concert Tour, Indianapolis, Photo by IzzyBeth, 2008)

And totally worth it.

But my vocal cords aren't feeling too healthy . . .


. . . again, don't care!

Happy Wednesday!!!

What I eat on a 'normal' day . . .

. . . like there is any such thing as normal anymore.

Yesterday Susan at Catapult Fitness asked me what I was eating for breakfast. So I thought I'd give a run down of what I eat on a 'normal' day and see if you all have any better suggestions for me.

On weekdays, I almost always eat a Chocolate & Oats Fiber One Bar and one other thing for breakfast. Sometimes it is a Weight Watchers Chocolate Muffin, sometimes it is a piece of string cheese, sometimes it is a handful of almonds.

I try and drink at least 4 bottles of water a day.

For lunch - it's either Chicken Fajitas, a Roasted Chicken Sub, or a Weight Watchers or South Beach Diet Frozen Meal.

In the afternoon - I usually get the munchies and either eat raw veggies, fruit, string cheese, or almonds.

Many times, dinner is a salad with chicken on it. Also - there are a lot of times where I don't get to eat very much GREEN until dinner time.

I try and mix it up every now and then - but I'm still having "issues" and I'm not losing any weight.

I welcome your thoughts and suggestions.

But I know that what I eat affects how my family views food - so at least one of us has the right idea . . .



Happy Saturday!

Still plugging along . . .

Plug pun not intended - but still funny . . . (and unfortunately true).

I got up early this morning and walked for 30 minutes before getting ready and going to work. It did help my energy level - but I'm crashing now! :-)

I've been doing well with breakfast and dinner eating - but lunch is the worst time of day for me right now. We're in the midst of a big project at work and by noon I am READY to get out and take a break - and unfortunately there are not a lot of healthy choices close by. I know I do better when I bring my lunch - but sometimes I just have no willpower to stay at the office and eat.

The next few months are going to be extremely busy - so maybe I'll be too busy to eat . . . HAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Yeah, SURE. Like that would EVER happen.

What do you do to curb snacking at work? I've tried to stock our breakroom with healthy snacks and plenty of bottled water. It helps - as long as we don't eat too much. I look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Happy Thursday (even though it's almost over!)

Yes I am alive . . . but frustrated

I am still doing well with my eating. However last Friday when I weighed in, the scale said I had gained 5 pounds in a week. For some reason, my body is refusing to get out of the 190s. And my body's ummm 'pipes' shall we say are NOT WORKING CORRECTLY! (my frustration should explain that clearly)

On top of that, I've felt yucky all week - tired all the time. I probably need to get to the doctor and make sure all is well - but I've been so busy with work and home stuff - I just haven't had time. I know - excuses, excuses.

So I'm here - baring my soul and asking your advice . . .

What do you do regarding eating and fitness when you are "under the weather"?

Do you have digestive issues in your weight loss journey? Any advice??

Any thoughts on how to get out of that plateau stage??

I hope all of you are doing well and I'll try to better at updating. I know it helps my mindset to have all of your thoughts and support.

Thanks.

Happy Wednesday!

I have not abandoned my path

I have just been too busy to post about it!!

I hope to get caught up tomorrow.

Happy Friday everyone!

Walk the walk

Well, I will admit to all of you that I have been doing a great job of walking every day for at least 30 minutes (usually 60).

However, I have seriously slacked off on the Wii Fit and Push-Up front. I think the reason that I am doing well with walking is that my best buddy (since we were in diapers) now lives down the street from me and we motivate each other to walk.

One downfall of the Wii Fit is that it is kind of a solitary activity. Although others can do the exercises WITH you - it only records 'points' for the person using the Balance Board. It would be good in the next iteration, if they include a way to exercise TOGETHER. BUT - that is only an excuse. I need to get back in the groove. I love using it - I just have to motivate myself to get STARTED.

As for the push-ups - every day I say "We need to do our push-ups" and Hunkahubby growls at me and then I give in and forget about it. ::sighs::

SO . . . this week - my goal is to do the Wii Fit at least 3 times - and to FINALLY FINISH WEEK ONE of the Hundred Push Up Challenge. (And also to keep walking and tracking my food, which I've been doing pretty well at.)

What are you doing to walk the walk and get motivated?

"You must begin to think of yourself as becoming the person you want to be." - David Viscott

Get Funky!

It's Monday. And like Garfield, I hate Mondays. Especially after a 4-day weekend.

So - I've decided to throw caution to the wind and GET FUNKY!

My friend Kristen (my weight loss inspiration) told me about these snacks several months ago and I finally ordered some off of Amazon.

What exactly am I talking about?

FUNKY MONKEY SNACKS!!


And they are awesome. I am not a dried fruit person, but I love these. My kids love them too! They are 100% real fruit, all natural, freeze dried fruit. And they are CRUNCHY!

They have several flavors: Bananamon (shown) - banana with cinnamon, Jivealime - Pineapple with lime juice, Purple Funk - banana with acai, and Carnaval Mix - banana, pineapple, apple, papaya, and raisins. I've tried all but the Carnaval Mix and haven't found one I don't like yet. But I do have to admit, that the Bananamon is my favorite. And there are 110-120 calories per bag!

And I've just discovered that they have these at Kroger! Woohoo!!

So, on this Monday - I challenge you to GET FUNKY! Get up and dance, fidget in your chair, or go out and find some Funky Monkey Snacks. I promise it will help you get over the Monday blues. :-)

Happy 4th - and Happy Loss!!

Happy Independence Day! Me? I'm looking forward to a continued life where I am NOT a slave to food. :-)

I weighed in. And I finally lost more than point something or other. I lost 2.8 pounds! This is awesome, because I've been at a stand still for an entire month. And I'm finally BELOW the 190s!!! I've lost a total of 28.2 pounds! (And I think I'm nearing the goal of weighing less than my husband . . .)

Here are my weights so far . . .

(image from http://www.weightwatchers.com)

What did I do differently? I stopped 'relaxing' my habits and got back down to business. I drank my water, I tracked my food, and I tried to get some sort of exercise every day. And obviously - it worked.

I am determined to be more vigilant, and not so relaxed with my habits so I can continue to go down and lose that next 25 lbs. I am declaring my independence from the emotional eating fat person within me! :-)

Have an awesome holiday everyone!!!

Progress and FOOD FIND!

I'm still plugging along. Still tracking my food and drinking my water.

Did Week One, Day One of the Push-Up Challenge. Managed to eek out 38 pushups! I was surprised. Hunkahubby did them with me, under MUCH duress.

I then decided to do about 100 crunches while I was in the zone. :-)

Also - I ordered some different healthy foods that I've been reading about and will post about each of them as they arrive and I've tried them.

My new favorite thing???? POPCHIPS!

If you haven't tried these . . . you NEED TO. I don't think anyone around my area has them yet . . . but THEY NEED TO get them. I bought mine from Amazon and got a box of different varieties. So far, I've tried the Parmesan Garlic (my favorite, but Hunkahubby likes them so much he won't share) and the Barbecue. BOTH are awesome.

What is the coolest thing about these chips? They are healthier than regular chips. They aren't fried and they aren't baked. They are 'popped' by some 'snack magic'. They are all natural. And honestly - I think they taste better than any other kind of chip I've ever had. Seriously.

The nutritional information isn't bad either - for the Parmesan Garlic chips (and you get 20 chips per serving!) - 120 calories, 4 g of fat (no saturated fat), 1 gram of fiber, and 2 grams of protein. WOOHOO!!!

I have 12 bags, but I might need to get some more and hand them out as gifts! Yay for the PopChips!!!

Have a great Wednesday!

So far this week . . . doing better . . .

I have been tracking my food (since Sunday). And last night, I walked for an hour around the neighborhood. Tonight, Hunkahubby and I have plans to do PUSH-UPS. Woohoo!!

I've also been drinking a TON of water (and subsequently, visiting the bathroom more often).

All in all, I believe I'm getting back on track - and I'm ready to get off this plateau I've been stuck at (through much fault of my own.)

And because we all know another HOLIDAY is fast approaching, here are some tips from The Fit Shack, on how to avoid Holiday Weight Gain.

Happy Tuesday!

I need your thoughts . . .

I've been hearing more chatter lately about meal size and meal times. For example - I've heard it is better to eat a larger breakfast, a middle sized lunch, and a smaller dinner. (Of course, most people I know do exactly the opposite.)

I decided to look around this morning for some articles about meal sizes and times. I found some pretty interesting things.

First - this review of a diet book about 'eating dinner for breakfast'. This sounds pretty interesting. Have any of you read this book? It follows the large breakfast, medium lunch, and small dinner principle.

This article is good as it shows what 300-400 calorie meals look like. Which is very helpful for people who are trying to be smart about their choices and it wakes them up to how many calories they have actually been eating per day. (Weight Watchers did that for me in a big way. When I calculated the number of POINTS I'd been eating per day, it was WAY more than I should have been eating. It makes it easier for me to make better choices now. Something that is a lot of points is really not worth it!)

Here are some random cool tools from CalorieKing.

And here is a great article about habits that prevent weight loss. Some really great tips here.

And then finally - this article about how to force your body to melt fat like butter. I've heard this before as well - that eating the same things at the same time every day will not help you lose weight. That you have to 'switch things up' to 'keep your body guessing.'

What I want to know from all of you is . . . what do YOU think? Have you heard of any studies about meal times and sizes? How do YOU eat your meals? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Have a great Saturday!

Go directly to Jail, do not pass Go, do not collect $200

I have decided, for my sanity, that I will not weigh in this week. This will be the first time I haven't weighed in since I started on March 1st.

Why have I decided this???

1. I know, because of several factors (one something I cannot control) that my weight is up. I don't need the scale to tell me that - I can feel it.
2. This has been a crazy, crazy week and my emotions are already stretched thin. So . . .
3. I am vulnerable and afraid I will bum myself out and blow it big if the scale is mean to me.

The last meeting like this at work was right before I started my journey to a healthier me. Most of the people at this meeting are from all over the world, so I only see them 4 times a year. Several people commented on how good I looked. I want to lose 25 more pounds before the next quarterly meeting - so I have to get my BOOTIE in gear.

Here are my goals for next week:
1. TRACK MY FOOD. I know this is vital to me watching what I eat, it makes me more conscious and I can't believe I let myself get out of the habit.
2. Start the Push Up Challenge over. I absolutely did not have time to work it in this week - as I was at work from 6 in the morning until 11 at night almost every day this week. PLUS - I have a co-worker wanting to do this with Hunkahubby and I - so it is a good reason to start over and do it together.
3. Do other work outs (walking and/or Wii Fit) 3x this week.
4. Get back into drinking water and NOT Sprite Zero which only makes me thirstier.

Those are my goals. And I know I can do it.

And I have to tell you that those of you who have commented on my blog and encouraged me thus far, your words mean so much to me, and I really appreciate all of you. Have a GREAT Friday.

ZZZZZ

I have a quarterly meeting at work this week. Not only was I in charge of organizing it, but Hunkahubby helped me with the food and 'ambience.' All without a babysitter for our 3 munchkins. Needless to say - we are lacking sleep or time this week . . .

So I thought I'd lead you to a link about the effects of sleep or lack of sleep on weight loss.

(Maybe this is my excuse if my weigh-in isn't so great on Friday . . .)

Happy Thursday!

Handing out some love linkage

I first want to update and say that AFTER I did Day 1 of my push-up challenge, I had so much energy, that I grabbed my best buddy from down the street and we walked around the neighborhood for 45 minutes. Woohoo! I was feeling good! I just hope I can keep it up!

And I also wanted to point out that I have been reading a lot of interesting, informative and HELPFUL posts lately - and I wanted to share them with all of you!!

First off - I had to give my Wii Fit some love. Here is a story about a local family that uses the Wii and the Wii Fit to bridge generational gaps!! I love this gaming system just because of that. It is awesome that Grandparents and Grandchildren are finding ways to bond (and get healthier!)

I also found this post by WorkoutMommy very motivational - since I'm on this new push-up kick, I actually got excited about trying out the different planks in this video!

I also absolutely LOVE the message in this post especially the part about the diet mentality vs. the healthy approach. Although I've finally gotten AWAY from the whole 'diet mentality' I still don't think I'm quite where I need to be.

And finally - I want to point you to a list I posted a couple of days ago on my personal blog. It has such great points - that I think you all will enjoy it as well. Be sure to check out #8, #14, #39 and especially #16!!!

Have a great Wednesday!

Day 1 - Push-Up Challenge

Well, I made it through Day One of the Push-Up Challenge. I didn't want to, but I did. And Hunkahubby was right beside me. We were both grumbling, but we did it.

7 push-ups
REST
7 push-ups
REST
5 push-ups
CRY
4 push-ups
BEG FOR IT BE OVER
And then I did 10 before my arms were shaking so bad I couldn't take it anymore.

Hunkahubby isn't speaking to me anymore. (Just kidding!)

REST DAY TOMORROW!!! WOOHOO!!!

Initial push-up test

Well, I did my initial push-up test on Sunday and I managed 10 before I thought I was going to die. (Yeah, pretty sad . . . but it's better than I thought it was going to be!!)

Today I will start in on Day One. Oh boy! LOL

I think my biggest challenge right now is eating on the weekends. It is 'relaxation' time for me, and I get a little too relaxed in my eating habits. One day a week isn't so bad - but it is getting to be a Friday, Saturday, Sunday habit for me. Not good!

But I'm determined to do better this week! I CAN do this. (And thanks to all of you who are helping to remind me of that every day!)

"Doubts and mistrust are the mere panic of timid imagination, which the steadfast heart will conquer, and the large mind transcend." - Helen Keller

What does your waist size say about your health?

The Nutrition Data Blog had a really good article about how your waist size can have an effect on your health. There are some tests you can do to determine what health issues you are at risk for.

I don't even have to take the test to do know that I'm at risk for diabetes, hypertension, heart problems, and cancer. I have a really poor family health history, which is one of the main reasons I decided things needed to change (but I love my family just the same!)

After you have determined your BMI and waist circumference, you can go here to interpret what it means. After going through the steps - I determined that I am at a VERY HIGH risk of health issues, however, in March of this year, that test would have come out EXTREMELY HIGH. So I am thankful that I am now making the right choices and heading in the right direction.

And since we are in the testing mood, please check out this site to determine how many calories you would burn if you rested all day (BMR or RMR). I thought this was very educational - because I know about how many calories I eat a day and we all know that you want to burn more calories than you take in, right? So how many calories do I burn on the days I just sit on my keister??? (Not enough in the land of little to no metabolism!)

This website also has a lot of different tests you can do and very educational tools you can use to improve your health and fitness.

And finally - do you feel like you're stuck in a rut? I've felt that way for a while now - but a great post by the Thinking Woman really smacked me upside the head. I'm now choosing to be thankful and joyful about the life that I have and not get stuck in an emotional rut!

I hope that all of you have a blessed Sunday!

No more excuses!

Well the upstairs room is done. Hunkahubby is finished redecorating. Part of the reason for re-doing the room was to make more space for exercising (the Wii Fit can be dangerous in small spaces). The other reason . . . well . . . Hunkahubby just has to shake things up every now and then. He can't help himself. :-)

So now - I have no more excuses! The room is re-done. There is room to dance around. No part of my body is broken. It is time.

When I started this blog it was primarily to change my eating habits - which I've done a pretty good job of on Weight Watchers. Now - I need to start adding in the fitness end of things. I have a job where I sit on my rear all day long - and then come home and just want to lay on the couch. I need more energy . . . and everyone seems to tell me that expending energy will give me more . . . We shall see . . . :-)

So - I'm going to put this out there. I am going to try the push-up challenge (against my better judgement.)



I am also going to start out with at least 30 minutes of activity 3x per week. This activity will most likely be using the Wii Fit, but it may be walking or riding bikes, or whatever I can fit in, as long as it gets my heart rate up and it is PURPOSEFUL.

Once I've hit that consistently for a month, I will up my goal.

Does that sound reasonable? I start tomorrow. I'll keep you updated.

Weigh-In . . . FINALLY . . .

I've been stuck at 193 for 2 weeks. Mostly due to stress and not making great eating choices several of those days.

But this week, I tried very hard to STICK TO THE PLAN. I got some walking in (not as much as I'd like) and my poor Wii Fit is lonely because my husband decided to re-do the big room upstairs that I use to exercise! But I did make pretty good eating choices all week.

Today I was down 0.4 pounds, and I'll TAKE IT!!! :-)

This isn't easy. And it can be a struggle. But I KNOW - it is so worth it.

So if you are on this journey with me . . . Don't Give Up!!!

Have a great Friday!

I'm still not convinced . . .

Or motivated . . . but I'll get there, I promise.

Sometimes - you just have those weeks where you barely have time to breathe.

Why is it that we don't lose weight just from all the running around and stress?????

Why is it that some of us just get the unbearable urge to EAT when these times come?

And why is it that some people are lucky and actually CAN'T eat when they are stressed and those of us who aren't that way just want to punch them?

Don't you wish that we all could feel like this all the time?
Oh to be a cat.

Someone motivate me please . . .

Several bloggers are taking this 100 push-up challenge. I read through it and it seems so DAUNTING. I have no idea how many push-ups I can actually do (and I'm a little afraid to find out.)

I'm wondering if I can get Hunkahubby to take this challenge with me . . . .




What do you think? Dare I risk it?

Although I know I need to work on my strength - my biggest problem area is my abs (and my chins - but I have yet to find a working exercise for those!!). A fellow blogger posted a great guide for working on your abs.

If you are like me and have already tried every possible ab machine known to man, and all it did was become a place to hang the laundry - well then maybe you should just try this!

Hmmm - and maybe, I could attempt the push-up challenge WHILE working on my abs??

I'm not sure I'm ready for that much commitment just yet! :-)

Have a great Wednesday!

More Stories on the Wii Fit

Yesterday, I spent a lot of time perusing the blogosphere to see what other users have to say about the Wii Fit.

I found a great blog here about a guy who has lost 16 pounds in six weeks (kind of fast, but he IS a guy) using the Wii Fit. He has some great screenshots and information - check it out!

JavaChick posted her review on the WiiFit - and I very much agree with most of what she says. (The Tree Pose, for a beginner like me? HAHAHAHAHAHAHA.)

And here is an older post from a gamer who was determined to HATE the Wii Fit, and just couldn't do it.

Here's a funny post about Wii Fit injuries (okay, for the people who it may have happened to, it probably isn't funny . . .).

And finally - a blog about a guy who is detailing his weight loss journey with the Wii Fit. (He also has several links to other bloggers who are doing the same thing.)

I hope all of you enjoy perusing these links. Me - I am going to get back into DISCIPLINE and eat well and exercise in hopes for a loss on Friday! Wanna join me?

I'll leave you with a new "Yoga pose" created by my oldest daughter . . . I call it the Spiderman.

Happy Tuesday!

Weigh-in Information and Weekend Update

Thanks to all who followed my Wii Fit Adventure. I hope to post more updates as I unlock more games/exercises.

This weekend, my family and I went to Holiday World (a holiday themed amusement park in Santa Claus, Indiana). I didn't have time to post my weigh-in information, but it wasn't exciting.

I didn't lose any weight, and I didn't gain any either.

I'm a little worried about this weekend, because I didn't eat very well. Not that there were a lot of healthy choices!!! :-) I'm going to stay STRICTLY on plan the rest of this week and make sure I exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. That is the best I can do. :-)

How was your weekend? Did you enjoy this gorgeous weather? (Or did you get BURNT like I did?)

Have a great Monday!!!

Wii Fit: The Series, Part V - An Ode from MizFit

I asked MizFit, who has been coveting my Wii Fit since I bought it, to write a post about her thoughts on the system and finish out this series with a BANG. She did NOT let me down.

Enjoy!!

Thoughts on the Wii Fit
by MizFit

I fought it. I scoffed
"Not a gamer" I'd say.
A Wii? What is that?
It would get in the way.

I'm too busy. Don't care.
Then I saw one: WHO KNEW?
That sh** was way cool.
Oh the things it could do!

But still I resisted.
Part money. Part time.
(I've got things to do
I've poems to rhyme!)

Then they launched the Wii Fit
And I knew. Twas for me.
I've got a small secret
One you can not see.

My balance? It sucks.
(and that's being kind)
I try doing yoga.
Then fall. Change my mind.

I'm their target market
(I love fitness and fun!)
I KNOW I'd do yoga
If I just had me one.

My balance? Perfection.
If it I just had.
(that BMI stuff? not sure.
makes me mad).

My birthday approaches
I shall gift to MYSELF
the present of balance
& (*eyeroll*) of HEALTH.

Copyright 2008, MizFit.

__________________________



So that ends my series
On the way cool Wii Fit
And the reasons that all
Couch Potatoes should try it!

This is truly the end
I hope you enjoyed it
If so, go and buy one
And get one for MizFit!

(This series is not an advertisement, these views are the author's and the author is in no way connected to Nintendo.)

Wii Fit: The Series, Part IV - Balance Games

Welcome to Part IV, Wii Fit Balance Games!

This section is also quite fun, even though some of the games are kind of frustrating, because I'm not as 'balanced' as I should be.

This is the Soccer Heading game. A team of Miis kick soccer balls at your HEAD and you try to hit them. The trick is shifting your weight quickly from one side to the other . . . AND dodging things that come toward you that AREN'T soccer balls (like soccer cleats, OUCH!)

One of the things I love about the Wii System in general, is how it is so personalized and you can make your Mii look just like you! You can create Miis for your entire family - and then whenever you play - you'll find 'audience members' you will probably recognize.


For example - this is my husband making a cameo as the soccer coach in the Soccer Heading Balance Game.


The next Wii Balance Game is the Ski Slalom. You have to shift your weight back and forth to go through the colored flags. (I'm not so good at this game yet.)

Here she goes - down the hill!

Here is my oldest daughter attempting to beat my score (won't take much!)

For the next game - it is very important to note this WARNING . . .

Even though your instinct would tell you to JUMP - please don't. I don't think the Wii would like you for it.


The reason for this warning? The Ski Jump!!


For this Balance game, you bend your knees and then when it comes time - you straighten your legs and HOLD STILL. The key to this game is your center of balance while going downhill, and then your stillness and balance while flying through the air. I've gotten pretty good at this one and no one has beaten my score.

There are several other balance games including walking a tightrope, floating your Mii in a Bubble through twists and turns (I STILL haven't gotten all the way through that one), a silly (the kids love it) penguin game that is actually quite difficult, and a table balancing game that reminds me of a certain scene in National Treasure 2. There are a few more I haven't unlocked yet.

I like the Balance Games because they are fun and a good way to wind down after exercising - or just for playing when you have some time to kill.

Stay tuned for the end of the series tomorrow with a special (and humorous) guest post!

(This series is not an advertisement, these views are the author's and the author is in no way connected to Nintendo.)

Wii Fit: The Series, Part III - Strength Training

Welcome to Part III, Wii Fit Strength Training.

My 6-year-old son (with help from other family members) volunteered to model for this section. This is my son who eats like a bird, and probably needs a little bit of strength training before his 4-year-old sister beats him up!



The first thing we learned is that my son's Wii Fit age is 21! And my oldest daughter pointed out, "He can stay home by himself now!" We got a good laugh out of this. I actually wonder at the accuracy of the Wii Fit for children under a certain age - but it is still fun for family activities.

The first strength training exercise is Single Leg Extensions.


Here the trainer shows us how to do the exercise.


And here my children attempt to show us how its done.


And here is the trainer showing us the proper form of the DREADED Push-up and Side Plank Exercise. (I HATE THIS EXERCISE, I'm sure it works, but I HATE IT!)


Here is my son showing us the proper form for a push-up (isn't he cute?).


And here he is attempting to do the side plank. Not too bad!


Here our trusty trainer shows us how to do Torso Twists (MUCH EASIER THAN THE LAST EXERCISE, let me tell you!)


And here, my two oldest children do Torso Twists in sync. Now if I could just get them to stand this close to each other without fighting ALL THE TIME. :-)


Uh-oh, it's the dreaded AB exercises! Personally, I really like the Jack Knife. You lay on the floor with your heels on the Wii Balance Board. When the whistle blows, you make a V with your arms and legs and then you slowly bring yourself back down - as your feet touch the Wii Balance Board, it counts the rep. And because of the whistles, it keeps you from doing them too quickly, and helps you focus on the right muscles. It's a great exercise!!


Show them how it's done, son!


Here is another exercise I hate . . . LUNGES. My knees don't like them very much. But after walking through the Demo with the trainer, I've learned to do them correctly and I don't fall on the floor (very much).


Using the Wii Fit really is a family thing - here HunkaHubby (AKA WonderDad) shows my oldest the proper form for the lunges.


Here is the trainer example of the Rowing Squat.


And one . . .


And a two . . .

So there you have several examples of the Strength Exercises available on the Wii Fit.

Are you convinced?

Tune in tomorrow for Balance Games!

(This series is not an advertisement, these views are the author's and the author is in no way connected to Nintendo.)

Wii Fit: The Series, Part II - Aerobic Exercises

Welcome to Part II - Wii Fit Aerobic Exercises!

The Aerobic Exercises are my second favorite section of the Wii Fit. My oldest daughter helped to model this section. This section includes Hula Hoops, Step Aerobics, and running (so far).


The first aerobic exercise is HULA HOOPS! You stand on the Wii Balance Board and move your hips around in a circle.


Then, you get a challenge - one of the 'helpers' off to the side throws another hula hoop to you and you have to shift your weight to one side to try and catch the hula hoop. The more hula hoops you catch, the more spins are counted and the more points you get.


Here, my daughter has caught several hula hoops and is BURNING IT UP on her score!


Here is an example of a Hula Hoop Score! You go girl!

I have unlocked the Advanced Hula Hoop - where you spin to the right for quite some time and then you spin to the left. It keeps track of how many spins you do on each side and also how steady you are in your waist circles. This one is KILLER. I get sweaty - but it is quite fun!

Another aerobic exercise is step aerobics. This is kind of like "Dance Dance Revolution" or games such as this, where you follow the arrows and feet while keeping to the beat of the music, stepping on and off the Balance Board. This one was confusing to me at first, so I just watched the other Miis (the Wii version of ourselves) and did a much better job. My children don't do so well with this game yet.


Here is a shot of the Miis from the front.


Here is what the screen looks like as you are trying to follow the steps.

I have unlocked the ADVANCED step aerobics and it is really fun. I also unlocked a 'free step' section where you can start it up and then change the channel to watch regular TV. The Wii Remote keeps the beat for you and the Wii Balance Board keeps track of how many steps you do. I did this yesterday and incorporated arm motions, etc. I did this for 15 minutes and my ARMS HURT. Just from doing that!!!


Another aerobic exercise is running. This does not use the balance board, but the remote works kind of like a pedometer. The more you do this, different distances and 'scenery' are unlocked. You have a PACE MII in front of you to help you keep a steady running pace. If you run too fast - you fall down, it's pretty funny.

There is also a 2 person run, where another person can grab a remote and run along with you. The kids usually complain about having to walk - but they LOVE running and trying to beat each other. (I just have to keep them from running into the TV when they get carried away.)


Also - as you run, a little bouncing head of your Mii helps you keep track of how much longer you have to run to get to the finish line.

Pretty cool stuff.

Tomorrow . . . Strength Training!

(This series is not an advertisement, these views are the author's and the author is in no way connected to Nintendo.)