Time for a Change in Me

Blogging on the backburner

2011-05-05T10:46:00.000-04:00

I love to write - so why don't I do it more often? I need to explore this . . .

I've been doing pretty well over the past few months - I haven't lost a whole lot of weight, but I am starting to feel better and I'm consistently getting exercise every week. :-) I'm thinking of adding a couple of more people to this blog - so that we can all discuss our weight loss strategies, etc.

That Jennifer girl is still out there somewhere - working her butt off from what I hear!!

Have a great day!!

Made to Crave

2011-01-31T10:39:00.000-05:00

KLove Radio has been doing a month long devotional based on Lysa Terkeurst. They are so good - I wanted to provide the list of links here - along with a link to purchase her book. As I'm on this journey of learning to cease worshiping food - this devotional has been awesome.

Made to Crave

Personal Training

2011-01-28T16:52:00.000-05:00

My BFF and I have been doing personal training on Fridays and we just survived another "brutal" session. My arms are shaky - but I always feel SO GOOD when we're done!!!

I'm also trying a very strict eating plan over the next 9 days - so your prayers are appreciated.

I wonder how that Jen girl is doing . . . oh Jen?!?!?!?! ;-)

Weekend Warrior

2011-01-24T09:54:00.000-05:00

I'm doing well - tracking my food every day and getting in some activity every day as well. I was pretty sore this weekend from my first real personal training session. (Wanna know more about my awesome trainer? Check out her website: Tone Temples.)

But I have learned that I can do pretty well during the week - because it is a routine. But once the weekend hits - I tend to relax . . . and want to just eat everything in sight. It's okay . . . it's the weekend, right? WRONG. Not when you might just eat enough to destroy all the hard work you put in throughout the week!!

I found this great article regarding weekend strategies. Check it out here. So - my goal for this week is to PLAN FOR MY WEEKEND!!

I do have to say, though - that I have had a LOT more energy this week. I don't want to just go home and take a nap. I spent most of the weekend CLEANING, ORGANIZING and PURGING. (For those who know me - this is NOT normal.) I'm excited to keep doing it!!

How are YOU doing on your journey to healthiness?

Yep - I am a changin'

2011-01-18T09:24:00.002-05:00

2010 was a crazy year. Full of a lot of emotional times, and a lot of emotional eating. But now - I am 35 years old and I'm not messing around anymore. I've had some scary health issues - and I don't want anymore.

I have a group of good people supporting me and I am changing my life.

More to come!

Slowly but surely!

2010-08-19T10:23:00.000-04:00

I'm still losing and getting pretty close to the first goal I set for myself. The great thing is - I have a WALK this weekend that will count for some activity points! Yay!
My babystep goal this week is to try and drink less water and more coke. I've noticed that the more stressed I am - the more Coke Zero I drink. So I need to cut down the Coke and ramp up the water.
I hope to have GOAL REACHED news this next week!!!

How are you doing?

It's all about attitude!!!

2010-08-09T08:17:00.000-04:00

For some reason, most of us, when it comes to weight loss are our own worst enemies!!!

ATTITUDE IS THE ANSWER!!

Norman Vincent Peale said, "Any fact facing us is not as important as our attitude toward it, for that determines our success or failure. The way you thing about a fact may defeat you before you ever do anything about it. You are overcome by the fact because you think you are."

I've decided not to let my NEGATIVE inner thoughts defeat me!!!

So this morning - I got up earlier than normal - refusing to hit SNOOZE on my alarm. I got ready, made a meal replacement SHAKE and came to work. When I got to work - I filled up my water bottle and started drinking. So far - no Coke Zero. And there isn't any in the refrigerator - so I should be safe.

I have ALL of the tools I need to be SUCCESSFUL - but I HAVE TO CHOOSE TO USE THOSE TOOLS!

So today - I AM CHOOSING TO BE SUCCESSFUL AND HEALTHY!!!

Someone once said that attitudes are contagious . . . IS YOURS WORTH CATCHING??

So I've been away, it seems . . .

2010-07-27T17:07:00.000-04:00

Still not losing, but not gaining - and I am feeling too yucky to go to my meeting tonight. BUT - I have been doing really well with tracking what I eat and how much I exercise.

I've been using My Fitness Pal to do my tracking because they also have an app for the iPhone. And it is all FREE!!!

I'm going to try and go in and get weighed on Friday - so I will update you with my progress then!!

Weigh-in tomorrow!

2010-07-12T14:43:00.000-04:00

Well - after a week away - I am once again scrambling because of the weigh-in tomorrow. Ugh. I HAVE GOT TO get my mind SET and leave it there. If only I hated food . . .

So - I found this great link for low calorie, delicious foods and thought I would share!

The Diet Detective: Calorie Bargains to Help You Lose Weight Active.com

Stay tuned for updates!

Activity!

2010-07-09T08:28:00.000-04:00

I was unable to weigh in this last week, because I had to pick up my son from camp. So I'm working extra hard this week in hopes to show a big loss. We will see . . .

I've put my Couch 2 5K program on hold because of this nasty humid weather. My allergies are causing outside breathing to be not so fun . . . I can't wait until it starts cooling down again. I still try and get in one run a week.

I'm working through 2 other programs too - one that I have done before. But it is cool because they now have iPhone apps for these programs too!!!!

One Hundred Pushups
Where you work 3 times a week in intervals until you build up to being able to do 100 pushups without stopping.

The same people who did the One Hundred Pushups now are doing a few other things and one of them is:

200 Situps
You are actually doing "crunches" but it is the same concept where you build up to being able to do 200 crunches without stopping.

I did both programs last night . . . and I can't move very well today. LOL But I FEEL GOOD!!

What are you doing to step up your activity??

Update!

2010-06-30T09:12:00.000-04:00

Well - I've lost a total of (drumroll please . . .)

18 pounds! Yes, it is pretty slow - but at least I am losing!!!

I'm going to work especially hard this week to get in at least 30 minutes of activity - EVERY DAY this week. I have to turn it into a habit. Plus - the weather is beautiful this week and it is a great time to get some walking in!!

More updates to come . . .

Another pound gone!

2010-06-16T14:24:00.000-04:00

Yes, they say slow and steady wins the race - so let's hope that really is the case! (Ha! I rhymed!)

I've now lost a total of 17 pounds and I made a few major breakthroughs.

I've finally gotten to the point where I don't feel like I HAVE to have the foods I used to crave. I'm starting to feel like I can "take them or leave them" which is a HUGE step for me.

I also got in a lot of activity this week.

I love my weekly "support group" and learning about food meetings. They really help us all keep things in perspective and be supportive of one another. Plus - the four of us that are left in our class get along really well.

I really want to keep working on my Couch 2 5K program - but it has been raining a LOT - and I'm not one to love running indoors or on a treadmill - I guess I need to get over that. Just another excuse . . .

For any others out there that are struggling to change your lives and get healthier - don't give up - WE ARE WORTH IT AND WE CAN DO IT!!!

Changes

2010-06-15T12:51:00.002-04:00

So, I started yesterday ..well, eating the way that I am suppose to, don't get me wrong I did eat good last week, but the scale told me otherwise! No, I didn't gain. Which is great!!!! But I didn't lose!

It's not like I don't have anything to lose, its just...I didn't do anything to wear stuff off...stuff. LOL

So, I was sitting here thinking about things. On my Facebook status I put....'I deserve good health, I deserve to be able to play with the kids -- not watch the kids. I am to honor my Lord by taking care of my body, he gave it to me and he can take it away. (time to show him I really do want it.)'. So what does this mean? It means I am kicking it into high gear and losing this 'bad armor'. Its an armor that is hurting my life. So, technically it isn't armor is it? Its like having bad breath I suppose.

I would rather be hiding my house than doing anything -- I am THAT embarrassed of myself. Yes, I said it out loud...sad thing is..my friends know this or knew of it. I am a social person, I love people. I am outgoing -- I am not right now, because....people pick on fat people....they do, ADMIT IT..when you were younger you said something about someone being fat.....I don't believe I said a lot because I was on the bigger side..not like now, but still.

So, here it goes, I am shooting for 7 lbs gone this week...its going to take a lot of work -- but, I do have 4 kids, why am I FAT!? ...or shall I ask..why did I get fat and take so long to lose it?

That is for another day....and honestly, I don't feel like getting into it. I am just saying.

I am here..not lost!

2010-06-09T10:04:00.002-04:00

Congrats, Beth on your weight loss! Girl! it has been a CRaaazzzzyyy couple of weeks!

My deepest apologies! =)

Our 5-year old came down with the stomach flu about 2 weeks ago, Friday, then the following Monday our 8-year old came down with it! (I was a cheerleader when they would make it to the bathroom, there is a reason I am not a nurse!) So...needless to say between those two and the healthy two..I am below 300! Sad, I said it out loud. But I am! 298 actually.

Life has been so crazy lately, then to top it off I ordered 2 HUGE things of strawberries and 15# of asparagus. I must be insane. So Friday afternoon, after the kids are out of school...I will be making strawberry jam, freeze some and make strawberry shortcake! Yes, I am eating strawberry shortcake.

I figured something out the last couple of weeks....I am human! (who would have thunk it!) But, I make mistakes..I like food, thus the reason I am fat..okay, as the Dr says morbidly obese. But that just makes me feel like a beached whale, so I say we call it....a shrinking fat ball...just for humor sake. Life is too short. If I eat a small bit, I satisfy what I want and get what I crave and I won't fall off the wagon too much.

well...what have you learned the last few weeks?

16 pounds!

2010-06-09T08:38:00.000-04:00

I finally got past that horrible 15 pound hurtle. I've been hovering around the same 1.5 pounds for about 6 weeks. Stress will do that.

But I crossed over to 16 and I am ready to keep moving DOWN!!!

Oh - and yesterday Mary cut about a pound off of my hair - do you think that is what did it? ;-)

Have a great Wednesday!

Weigh-in Day & Tuesday with Mary CHALLENGE

2010-06-08T13:52:00.001-04:00

Today is weigh-in day. And I'm dreading it. Because the first half of the week was probably the worst I've had since my journey started. The good thing is - I FINALLY kicked myself in the butt and I've stuck strictly to meal replacements for the past 3 days . . . the bad thing is - it probably won't show up on the scale until next week.

But this is why - on most every Tuesday - I meet with Mary before my meeting. We talk about our weeks, different things that have worked, our lives, etc. And she makes me feel better about myself before I have to face the scary scale.

So I will get to see her in a few hours - and I am glad.

ALSO - Mary challenged all of her FaceBook friends this week. And I am going to share that challenge here with all of you!!

The challenge is:

Do 50 crunches every day for 30 days.

I just started yesterday - and I knew I was out of practice, because halfway through - my abs were already aching. (SAD!)

I used my balance ball for my crunches - but you can do yours however you want (except you CANNOT eat 50 potato chips and say you did 50 crunches!!)

So - go forth and conquer that scale or that road or whatever goal you are setting for yourself.

OH - and word has it on the street that we'll soon be getting an update from Jen . . . STAY TUNED!

Frustration

2010-06-02T08:39:00.000-04:00

Well - I'm still stuck within those same 15 pounds I've been lingering at for weeks. And I have no one to blame but myself. I am learning so many things about how to be successful with health and weight management . . . but knowledge doesn't do anyone any good unless they are willing to USE IT.

I was so upset with myself yesterday - I just wanted to eat everything in sight. Luckily - I didn't feel too well - so that was a good thing for once, and I didn't!

On the bright side of things - I started two new activities.

1. I am attempting to train for a 5K. I'm using the Couch to 5K program.

http://www.c25k.com/

This program is cool because you learn to jog gradually. You start out with a warmup of walking and then you alternate between walking 90 seconds and jogging 60 seconds. My best friend and I did Day 1 and I thought I was going to die - but we did it.

2. I started using the Wii program - The Biggest Loser. So far, I like it. Some of the things are annoying - but not enough to keep me from using it. The first day was yoga. Between that and the run . . . my body HURTS!!

So those are my activity plans for now! What are your plans to bump up your activity?

Gonna Make a Change: Guest Post by Mary

2010-05-31T13:33:00.001-04:00

The following post was written by my dear friend Mary who is helping me through my adventure in changing my life. I could not do this without her. Every week, before my weight loss meeting, I meet with Mary and we talk about our lives and out struggles. I call it "Tuesdays with Mary." I asked her to write a guest post for this blog. THANK YOU MARY!

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

I'm not certain when I actually got "fat" per say, in my memory it seems like it just sort of happened, one day I was fat. I knew I was fat but I guess I always just thought I wasn't that fat, I thought I was just "chunky... big boned ... flabby? Certainly not obese or anything!" I was terribly blind! Somehow from 1986 to 2005 I became this obese disgusting person, I used to see overweight people and think, "boy, I hope I never get to be like that!" When in reality, I was!

Just after 4th grade my family moved to Kentucky, which I was excited about until I found out that the kids down there already had their clicques and I was not invited, down there the kids were not fun, they were very high strung and I hated it there! I don't know if that influenced my eating habits or if my parent's poor example, both my mother and [especially] my father are quite overweight; either way I got up to 228 pounds by 2006.

Luckily in the summer of 2006 we moved back to Indiana and my aunt, Dawn Ayers, told me and my mom about a program that she recommends to her diabetic patients but that anyone could do it!

So I went to a preliminary meeting and it sounded sketchy like the rest of the weight loss gigs that I'd heard about, they all give stories about how people lost so much weight and they keep it off, blah blah blah, but since my aunt wanted me to I decided to give it a try.

The first week I remember trying to cook brownies and chips and pancakes. It was not working, things didn't taste good, I hated the food and I wanted pizza! I remember crying in my kitchen, my mom looking at me being completely pathetic and she assured me that things would be ok, she was going to help me cook. I got really lucky, having her made things so much easier, she would make me chocolate muffins and banana bread to take to class and work! I could make pizza and bread sticks really well and loved them!

Things started looking up after the first 3 weeks or so! I was losing weight almost every week, when I was good of course(!), and I started measuring my legs, thighs, hips, stomach, boobs, upper arms, neck and head, I made a little chart to keep track of my inches lost! It was the little things like that which I looked forward to that really helped! I didn't really exercise though.

I remember one of the lessons was about things you enjoy that you can use to replace eating, I had recently found someone who was giving ukulele lessons at a bookstore in Noblesville, so I did that! My mom and sister and I started an old timey trio and performed for family! Then I also enjoyed scrapbooking, something to keep my hands busy and out of the pantry! Along with scrapbooking comes photography. I had so many things to do! I found it very helpful to try and distract myself! It's things like that I try to use now when I'm having bad weeks!

It was very difficult, the 20 weeks were very informative but I struggled with consistent record keeping, it seemed like as soon as I would do it for a whole week I'd fall off the wagon and it would take me 2 more weeks to try to get back into the habit! That is the one thing that I believe keeps you from gaining back the weight. I am off MRs (Meal Replacements) now, even though I occasionally have some, but the one thing that stays the same is record keeping, I cannot stress how important it is!

That was another thing that I was afraid of in the beginning, I realized that I enjoyed living in my fantasy world where food has no calories and it doesn't matter what you eat or how much! I discovered a darker, scarier world where your favorite foods have the highest calories which means you shouldn't eat them! The simple life of drive thru dinners and pizza deliveries was history and it was an awfully big change, one that I thought I would miss, and maybe sometimes I do, but in the long run it's really not worth it at all!

After a while I started trying new things, I found a new sense of confidence! I went out and did things on my own, I got a job at a scrapbook store, I was going to school still and looking into clubs, I made a friend or two, I felt so much better! I felt like I was worthy of being seen I think. I bought new clothes, which was a bit frivolous but sometimes you need little rewards!

One of the biggest steps was I started dancing! I had always loved Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly and I wanted more than anything to take a ballroom dancing class! But they were so expensive I never had! And besides, who wants to see a whale clomping around the dance floor? But now things were different, I felt so much better about myself and I could say it's exercise! So I found a coupon for 4 free lessons down on Keystone. It was so much fun I absolutely adored ballroom! I didn't have a partner but it didn't seem to matter, I just danced with the instructor! After my free trial was finished I tried to find a cheaper place, but I found it all to be very expensive. Luckily I found a bulletin offering Scottish Highland Dancing near where I lived! I called and signed up! I was the only adult.

I had private lessons for about a month because her other interested students never showed up! I was kind of glad. Later she asked if I would help her with her little kid class in exchange for free lessons! "Absolutely!" It was fun, we met up 30 mins before the kid class and had my lesson then I'd help with her kids! Then the real fun, she asked if I'd do the recital! I'd be the ring leader for the kids! I was so nervous, but I said I would. The outfit was not flattering, but I had to match the kids, the best part was the photo shoot, I felt so cute in my new body! As much as I hated exercising it did help and finding something you enjoy doing helps 100%! It was exercise disguised as fun and dancing! The recital was awesome, such a high, I loved it!

I had also started doing theatre, The Little Mermaid, it started an entirely new life, I suddenly had dozens of friends and a busy schedule and very little time to eat! However we did go out a lot, there was more temptation, but with calorie counting I made it through.

Honestly, I didn't do the final steps the right way, I just started eating regular food when I wanted to, I think if I'd done it right I may have done even better! But I have always calorie counted. And I've yoyo-ed once or twice because of a relationship or two, but recently I got back to my lowest weight of 150, I was 149 for a couple days, but I don't count that!
There is no way I could have done it with out this program, that feeling of despair, of being trapped in a fat body, the vicious cycle of fast food and junk food and laziness and mindless eating is all behind me! I'm no where near perfect, but I have the tools now to keep maintaining and working toward my goal of 140 pounds. This is the best program, it worked for me and many others that I know from class! It works because they give you the lessons and the tools to be successful! It's not a miracle drug or a gimmick, it's simply a lifestyle change! It changed my life! I recently fulfilled a goal I had set for myself back at the beginning of my program 4 years ago, I never ever wore shorts, the last time I could remember wearing shorts was elementary/middle school, I wanted to feel confident enough to wear shorts, and I did just a couple weeks ago I went out in public, to class at IUPUI wearing shorts!

It just gets better from here, and even when we slide a little or step off the narrow path we always have the tools to navigate ourselves back on track!

Weekly Weigh-In and STEPPING IT UP!

2010-05-26T10:57:00.000-04:00

Well - I weighed in and was frustrated. I had a pretty low calorie week - but still only lost .4 pounds.

I had to be honest with myself - I HAVE NOT BEEN DOING ALL I CAN TO BE SUCCESSFUL!!!

So my mantra this week is STEPPING IT UP!

Stay tuned later today - as I have a guest post from my dear friend and inspiration Mary. Every Tuesday - I meet with Mary for an hour or so before my weight loss meetings. I call it TUESDAYS WITH MARY. And I'm considering having her post on here so that all of you can also have a TUESDAY WITH MARY to inspire you!

I hope all of you are doing all you can to be successful! If not - STEP IT UP!!!

Weekly Weigh-In and Comfort Foods

2010-05-19T13:03:00.000-04:00

Well - I'm getting back on track.

I'm learning so much at my weekly meetings, so many things about myself that I need to focus on (or STOP focusing on) in order to be successful.

I hope to share some of these revelations with you in the coming weeks.

This week - I lost the pound I had gained. So in all actuality - I haven't really changed weight in the past 2 weeks, but I had not been working very hard either.

I have to learn to find comfort in things BESIDES food when stress gets me down.

One of our assignments was to make a list of all the things we can use for comfort. Here are some of the things I've come up with:

Take a bubble bath
Walk the dog or pet the cat
Get out of the house and take pictures
WRITE (blog) about my feelings
Play an ACTIVE game on the Wii

This is just the beginning of the list I will use to get out of my rut of using food as a comfort. I think it is amazing how everything in our culture (and many cultures) is celebrated with FOOD! And usually - it isn't healthy food!

Birthdays - CAKE AND ICE CREAM.

Graduation - CAKE, ICE CREAM, and FATTY FINGER FOODS!

Church Functions - PITCH-INS OF EVERY KIND OF IRRESISTABLE FOOD POSSIBLE!

Reunions - Unhealthy food, usually accompanied by alcohol!

WE NEED TO CHANGE THIS!!!

So, as Michael Jackson said [paraphrased]:

I'm starting with the [wo]man in the mirror . . .

I'm starting with ME!

One step at a time.

What other things can you use to celebrate or take comfort in, besides food?? Leave it in the comments!!

I HATE STRESS

2010-05-13T12:25:00.000-04:00

And car problems . . .

And excuses . . .

And emotional eating . . .

But all of these are reasons for not posting last week. I will definitely update with my weigh-in next Tuesday. I didn't get to weigh in this week.

I'm trying to come up with some great exercise PLANS.

The one thing I'm learning about is "negative self-talk" - i.e. THE VOICES IN MY HEAD!

You know, the ones that say "It's okay, you can just have one. Oh, one more won't hurt. Oh, go ahead and eat the whole bag - you deserve it." Dumb voices.

Or that evil voice that says "you'll never be skinny. You don't deserve to be healthy. Just keep eating. Food is the only thing that makes you feel better anyway."

Yikes.

I am learning to turn those things around.

I DESERVE TO BE HEALTHY, DANG IT!!!

Stay tuned . . .

Weigh-in

2010-04-29T14:15:00.003-04:00

Well, sorry for the delay, my deepest sympathies! This past week wasn't THAT bad. I lost 3 lbs as well!!!! So, I am at a total of 9 lbs lost, in what over a month? Not too bad, NOT amazing or anything, but its better than gaining it.

I have one of my Biggest Loser peeps that I met who has a goal of losing 50 lbs by July 15th....so I figured, I would jump on board.

1. I have the weight to lose.
2. How else am I going to get determined to lose that fast!?
3. If I am going to do that...I should NOT be on Facebook so much!?

Hi, my name is Jennifer and I have addictions....maybe too many. *sigh*

Well, here is to an amazing week and Izzy....take ONE day to have a high calorie day and get that fat burner worker. I think mine will be Sunday...easier that way.

Okay..well I am up and outta here!

What are you going to do today, for you?

Izzy: Weekly Weigh-in

2010-04-27T22:53:00.000-04:00

After a bad emotional week, I guess I've learned enough to not overeat so badly to sabotage myself.

I lost another 3 pounds this week for a total of 15 pounds. This week - sticking to the plan, more activity, and more water.

How has your week been, Jen?

Weigh-in results: Izzy

2010-04-21T08:17:00.000-04:00

4 week weight loss total - 12 pounds. That isn't too bad.

I have a long way to go - but they say that slow and steady wins the race!

Jen ~ Weigh in

2010-04-20T13:53:00.003-04:00

I am so sorry for the lack of information! How dare I? :)

This past week was a lazy one. I have lost NOTHING. Go figure, though, I shall not complain. I'd rather do nothing than not gain! :-D See, I am easy to satisify.

I will say one thing. Rick, my dear hubby, and I are in a competition this week. 100 oz of water a day + steps. If we don't consume our 100 oz we subtract 1,000 steps. Intense, huh? So far..nah, I will keep it a secret.

Its interesting to say the least.

I am also entertaining the thought on joining Weight Watchers. Why? because I like the thought of them telling me I can have so many points and I can figure out from there on packages what I need to do. =)

Whew....yes, I am long winded. Have a splendid day ya'll and cheers! (with water, of course!)

Weigh-in is looming . . .

2010-04-20T10:40:00.000-04:00

Well, I weigh in tonight. I'm hoping to have lost at least a couple more pounds. My biggest success this week was getting in quite a bit of activity for me.

On Thursday, an old friend and I walked . . . and walked . . . and walked . . . for about FOUR HOURS. But it is easy to do when you're chatting and not thinking about the exercise. But I seriously need new walking shoes!!!

I walked more on Saturday while hanging with my sister and her family.

So let's hope it pays off!!!

Jen? Jen? Are you there?? ;-)

MEET JEN!!!

2010-04-12T21:26:00.001-04:00

I said that changes were coming . . . and they are HERE.

Everyone . . . MEET JEN!!

Now, don't look so shocked, Jen. I told you I was going to do this! Jen, meet EVERYONE!

::crickets::

Okay - so maybe we can grow our audience now. LOL

Jen and I are going to be accountable to each other in our journey to BETTER HEALTH through this blog. We look forward to sharing our struggles and our successes.

And maybe, just maybe, something we say can help someone else.

So - click here to learn more about JEN.

If you are Jen's friend and you're new to this blog and want to learn more,

click here to learn more about IZZY.

(Or click on the links at the top of the page!!!)

Changes are coming

2010-04-08T16:06:00.004-04:00

For me and for this blog!

I've lost about 8 pounds so far, and my rear is a tad sore from my balance ball . . . but I'm excited about everything!

I hope to have the changes posted by the end of this week!!

Stay tuned!!!

Balancing Act Begins - Weigh in tonight - and a Jamie Oliver plug!

2010-03-30T11:32:00.003-04:00

Well - I am now sitting on my balance ball chair in the office. It is going to take some getting used to. AND I need a higher quality air pump so I can pump up the ball to its full capacity. It is forcing me to sit up straight. Which is good. But it is different. My rear is a tad sore - but I just shift my weight around or bounce up and down on the ball and I don't care! It is kind of fun.

I'll keep you updated, and try and get some pictures soon.

Tonight is my first weigh in on my new program. Wish me luck! I did pretty well most days - but I had a few low willpower days. But I'm still plugging away. I will get there. Taking it one day at a time.

Finally - I have a new hero.

Jamie Oliver.

I have to admit that I had never heard of Jamie Oliver until the past month. I was watching TV and saw an advertisement for his new TV show "Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution." I recorded it and watched it. And I watched it again. And then I heard he was going to be on Oprah. And I recorded and watched that as well. And when I was struggling with a pizza craving, I sat down and watched him again. He inspired me to leave the pizza alone and eat something healthy.

Here is a quick intro to his show:

I got so excited when I watched this. These days, everything has to be fast and convenient. Very few homes have the capability of one parent staying home to cook for the family and take the time to make it healthy - so everyone relies on quick, easy, and dare I say - FAST FOOD. Parents also rely on the schools to feed their children lunch, and sometimes even breakfast. But the schools are limited to the choices and regulations laid out by the government.

If we can change the way America thinks - maybe we can all get somewhere. We can all get healthier. Health insurance and healthcare prices will go down. Getting our food under control could solve a lot more problems than we are aware of.

So - if this excites you too - go to Jamie's site and sign the petition that you support his revolution!

Join the Revolution!

Balancing Act Starts Tomorrow!

2010-03-29T15:57:00.001-04:00

Today I put my balance ball chair together at work. Unfortunately - you have to pump the ball up to 80% and then leave it before you can pump it up to 100% and start using it. :-(

So I will be able to update you on that tomorrow!!

I weigh in tomorrow evening. Not sure of my thoughts. I did pretty well the beginning of the week - but I'm learning that hanging out with my extended family gives me reasons to eat when I shouldn't.

I can do this I can do this I can do this I can do this!!!

Quick Update

2010-03-27T12:01:00.001-04:00

Still staying pretty much on plan - not getting all of my water in every day - but I'm getting a lot more than I was!!!

I had 2 major success this week. 1 - I made hamburger helper for my kids and it smelled SO GOOD - but I didn't even TASTE it! That was HARD!!!

2 - I was craving pizza very badly last night - but I stayed away from it and made a healthy version of pizza using my meal replacement. YAY!!!

I got my balance ball chair - but I'm going to wait and put it together at work on Monday. I'll let you know how it goes!

Day 1 complete!

2010-03-25T11:52:00.000-04:00

My "assignments" for this week are the following.

Eat 5 HealthOne Meal Replacements per day.
Track everything I eat.
Drink 96 oz of water per day. (2/3 of this must be JUST water - the other 1/3 can be non-caloric liquid in another form)
Get 20 minutes of exercise a day.

Try a new recipe with the Meal Replacements.

Yesterday - I completed everything on the list!!!

Today I'm getting off to a slower start - the lack of caffeine is giving me a headache - but I'm surviving.

I got the Biggest Loser Wii game and I look forward to trying it out tonight.

Look what I ordered . . . (BALANCING ACT: Preview!)

2010-03-24T12:49:00.001-04:00

I've heard that a lot of people have started doing desk work while sitting on a balance ball.

Here is a great article on why YOU should try this too!

Some of the best points . . . it is FUN, you are constantly moving and this causes CALORIE BURN, it is good for your back, and you can squeeze in mini exercises throughout the day! Oh and did I mention . . . it is fun?

So - I ordered one. And it should be here next week.

And I'll update you on whether or not I fall out of my chair a lot. Wish me luck!

Survived first weigh-in

2010-03-24T08:11:00.000-04:00

Don't even want to talk about how far I've sunk . . . because today is a new day!!!

I've got my water, I've got my meal replacements . . . now if I can just wake up . . .

Make it a great day!

Well - here goes!

2010-03-23T18:10:00.000-04:00

My first meeting is at 7:00 tonight. I get to weigh in and see how bad I've gotten . . . and then learn how to fix it.

Hi, my name is IzzyBeth - and I love food. For all the wrong reasons.

But I'm ready.

Ready to change.

Ready to get moving. Get healthy.

2010 = New Izzy

(And yes, I'm convincing myself here . . . I've been a little down in the dumps today and I need the encouragement!)

Stress strikes again - and I'm STRIKING BACK

2010-03-22T14:56:00.000-04:00

So - I started a new weight loss plan in January and promptly had to put it off - because I was unable to make it to meetings or afford the meal replacements.

I begin again tomorrow night. I'm setting myself up for success. I've had my blood drawn so the doctor in the program can tell me how sick I really am (just like on Biggest Loser). I've set the Wii Fit up downstairs so that I work out before AND after work and not bother those that might be sleeping.

And today and tomorrow I am eating some of my favorite things and telling them goodbye - because my health is more important than food.

I'll try and update this more often - because it helps me stay on track.

Wanna know more about the program I'll be doing? Check it out here: http://www.myhealthone.com/index.php.

Here we go!!!!

Loss

2010-01-25T11:18:00.000-05:00

So far, I've lost about 7 pounds on my new plan. It's a start!

I need to get going on drinking my water! I know that will be a big help - I just can't seem to gulp it down!!!

This week - that's my goal. 96 oz of water a day. Who is with me????

How to survive Girl Scout Cookie Time!

2010-01-22T10:01:00.001-05:00

Read this great article about surviving Girl Scout Cookies!

I already ordered mine - but I actually had a box of thin mints last year that survived in the freezer until last month! Woohoo!

Still hanging in there . . .

2010-01-20T11:10:00.000-05:00

The first few days were pretty easy - but for some reason, now I'm getting hungrier each day. It's probably stress.

I really like the meal replacement powder that this program uses (HealthOne) - because it tastes good and it is very versatile. You can use it in cold drinks, hot drinks, or bake it!! You just have to keep track of any extra calories that you add in! When you use all 5 meal replacements, you're getting all of the nutrition you need for the day and it should fill you up!

I've made my own version of an iced mocha (YUMMY), a brownie in the microwave (YUMMY), cinnamon and sugar "toast" (YUMMY) and pizza. Well, the pizza needs tweaking.

Now I need to get all of my water in and start exercising. But I'm getting there!!!

The newest plan

2010-01-19T11:22:00.001-05:00

Yep - I've tried just about every diet, food, and exercise plan available. Now I've gone to the experts.

On Sunday, I started a new plan through HNT. This is a medically supervised plan. For 20 weeks, I will use meal replacements as my main source of food, along with weekly meetings and accountability.

I'm making a CHANGE.

So far - it is going well. This the first meal replacement I've ever used that can be used as a shake, or baked for many other things - AND IT TASTES GOOD!!!

I'm excited! I'll keep you updated!

Coming soon!!

2010-01-14T13:13:00.002-05:00

I'm coming back soon!! I've survived a lot of stress - and still dealing with most of it, but am jumping back in the saddle.

More to come . . . stay tuned!

Yes, I'm alive!

2009-08-31T13:31:00.003-04:00

Just busy. We finished our "Fiddler on the Roof" adventure and jumped right into "My Fair Lady". The good news? I'm getting a lot of exercise on stage. The bad news? I get home at 10:30 p.m. every night and have the munchies. And I give in to them! ARRGGH.

So I was reading today and I found this article that I completely agree with for many reasons.

What are your thoughts on this?

Never-Ending Challenge: Week 3

2009-06-30T12:26:00.002-04:00

I am late in posting this.

I am still doing the challenges from Week 2. I am keeping them up through Week 3.

We have had a couple of very busy weeks!!

I wanted to post a link to this article about how our emotional state effects weight loss.

This is my BIGGEST hurdle.

I hope you are having a great week!

Never-Ending Challenge: Week Two

2009-06-19T11:33:00.006-04:00

If you're just joining us on this journey - read this to see how the challenge started.

Last week was difficult. I did very well with drinking my water every day, but the going to bed early WITHOUT watching TV was extremely difficult for me! I was only "bad" one evening - but I went to bed WAY early, so I think it was okay. ;-)

This week, we are going to step things up a little bit:

Drink SIXTY-FOUR ounces of water every day. (That would be 8 - 8 oz. glasses of water. Or 2 handy-dandy 32 oz. water bottles. Or 1 handy-dandy 64 oz. water bottle!)

YOU CAN DO IT!! I am already starting to feel better. Hydration makes a huge difference.

For a personal challenge, I am going to continue going to bed earlier and try to stay away from watching TV in bed. I am still having issues with this and I think it needs to continue for another week.

I am also going to ATTEMPT to stay away from restaurant food this week. It is a little difficult because of working lunches, but I will do my very best.

How about you? How did you do in Week One? What is your personal challenge for this week?

Never-Ending Challenge - Update Week One

2009-06-16T22:21:00.003-04:00

This challenge has been pretty interesting so far . . .

So, I've been doing really well with drinking my water (and visiting the little girls' room.)

I have been going to bed earlier every night - but I am having a really hard time NOT turning the TV on. It is crazy, but the first night it took me a very long time to go to sleep because I didn't have that extra noise.

I think part of my problem is that when it is quiet, I think about things I don't want to deal with. Yes . . . DEEP. This experiment is causing me to think about things I've been trying to avoid.

I haven't turned the TV on in our room, though. I wanted to. But I didn't.

Is anyone out there doing this with me?

The Never-Ending Challenge Begins!!

2009-06-12T08:20:00.004-04:00

Okay, first of all, I just want to say that I KNOW that neverending is one word. I just think it looks cooler with a dash in it. Sue me. :-)

Some of what I have been doing over the past several weeks is looking inside myself to see why I always get in my own way when it comes to losing weight and getting healthy. When I look back over the past 5 years, I get so frustrated at the times that I lost 30-60 pounds only to gain it all back with reinforcements. WHY DO I DO THIS TO MYSELF? I can almost always blame a stressful situation on the cause of me getting off track. But is that an excuse? Not anymore.

I know that I do better when I am challenged by someone or something. My problem is - after a few weeks, the challenge loses its newness to me and I start to slide. Why? Maybe I'm a little ADD and I gravitate toward shiny things. Or maybe that is just another excuse.

The point is - I want to be challenged continually so I can finally make a lifestyle CHANGE not a lifestyle pitstop on the road to 'pleasingly plump' (as my Grandma always called it).

SO - I came up with the idea for the Never-Ending (or neverending) Challenge.

Here is what it will entail. Each week - I will add one 'general' thing to the challenge and one 'personal' thing. The goal is to continue to do the things from the week before along with the new additions - but it will depend on the nature of the challenge each week. That way, we won't get bored and we may even look forward to Friday each week!

If you are interested in doing this challenge with me, here are the "rules":

Check this blog on Fridays to see the new challenge from me.

Come up with a personal challenge for the week.

If you have a blog, BLOG ABOUT IT so you have others to hold you accountable.

Leave me a note in the comments about your personal challenge (and a link to your blog if you have one.)

HAVE FUN! Once we stop having fun is when we start falling off the wagon. And this time, I plan on wearing my seatbelt!!

NEVER-ENDING CHALLENGE: WEEK ONE

For the first week of the challenge:

Drink at least 48 oz. of water EVERY DAY.

For some people, this one may be easy, and you may already be doing this - but for me, I always have an issue with drinking a lot of liquid. I am not really a pop/soda/coke (whatever you call it) drinker - I just don't drink a lot of anything. I know that when I AM drinking a lot of water, I feel better and it kick starts weight loss. So that is the challenge for week one.

Easy right?

BUT - don't forget the personal part of the challenge. This is where each of us will come up with our OWN THING that we know we need to work on.

So my personal challenge for the week is going to be rough. I have a horrible time falling asleep at night and an even harder time getting up the next morning. I am usually in bed by 10:30, but don't get to sleep until after midnight. I KNOW that I do better when I get up earlier.

SO - this week, I am challenging myself to go to bed a half hour earlier without distractions (no TV, no books, just relaxation.) This is going to be hard as I have a sound machine beside my bed and I always read and watch TV before I sleep. I am thinking it will help me to learn to sleep WITHOUT all the noise. We will see.

To recap:

This week I will:

Drink at least 48 oz. of water every day.

Visit the little girls' room a whole lot more (hey it comes with the first point!)

Go to bed a half an hour earlier without distractions.

What about you? Are you going to join me on this new challenge? Let me know in the comments below.

HAPPY FRIDAY!!!

The Never-Ending Challenge - Coming Soon

2009-06-10T10:45:00.003-04:00

I am still finishing the details for the Never-Ending Challenge. I think this will be a way to continue to be challenged every week and not get in a RUT and give up.

I think I have most of my health issues figured out and I'm ready to get back on my journey to a healthier me.

I hope to post the details of the Never-Ending Challenge by Friday so that we can start on Saturday. (Makes it harder to "CHEAT" on the weekend if you START on the weekend.)

Have a great Wednesday!!

Day 41-44: 44-Day Challenge

2009-06-03T07:32:00.002-04:00

The challenge is over and I've learned something about myself. I need a challenge that builds up to things and doesn't last as long. :-) I have also learned that I love challenges . . . for the first 2 weeks. LOL It really motivates me in the beginning - it is the staying power that I seem to lack.

I still haven't found out any information regarding my procedure last week, but I see the doctor tomorrow. The good news is - I am FINALLY starting to feel a little better. :-)

So - I am working on a 'never-ending' challenge that will start next week. It will be a pretty personal thing for me, but I'm hoping some of you will feel led to do it with me.

Happy Wednesday!!

Day 33-40: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-28T07:26:00.002-04:00

I've done pretty well with the fruits and veggies. I take walks when I can and I drink my water.

I finally had my medical procedure yesterday and will find out the results in 72 hours.

By that time, the 44-Day Challenge will be over and it will be time for a new one. I like challenges because they keep me motivated and accountable, even when I don't do them strictly to the letter.

And that is why I'm creating a new challenge to start after the 44 Day Challenge is done.

Stay tuned for details!!

Day 30-32: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-21T09:03:00.004-04:00

Today is my doctor's appointment, so I'm hoping to get this yucky stuff behind me and move on.

I've been getting back into the healthy eating, thanks to support from Hunkahubby. We also took a walk around the neighborhood last night and even ran for part of it (our puppy LOVES to run.)

My biggest realization, thanks to Bob Harper's Book is that I need to figure out why I always get in my own way when it comes to succeeding at weight loss.

Over the next few days, I'm going to explore this and share it with you if it isn't too painful.

Tomorrow's Friday! Keep up the good work!!

Day 27-29: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-17T19:10:00.002-04:00

I am still hanging in there. We went away for a couple of days to celebrate our family birthday. I didn't eat healthy, to say the least, but I didn't do as badly as I have in the past.

Today I have already had all of my fruit and all of my vegetables. I'm working on the water and I am walking with my buddy later this evening.

Tomorrow I go to the doctor to start figuring out my "issues" (no comments from the peanut gallery), and I'm back on the road to recovery!!!

Tomorrow is Monday - but let's all do something different. Let's be excited about the start to a NEW week and the adventure that it holds. A new week, a new start, a new chance for a new you!!

Attitude is everything.

Day 26: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-14T09:27:00.007-04:00

As you can see, I updated my blog design in preparation for what needs to be done.

I am worth it, and I am going to do something about it!

I am finally starting to feel a bit better, and I have an appointment next week with a specialist who can hopefully get me all straightened out and back on the road to healthyness. :-)

I have to talk about The Biggest Loser one last time, because I have to get this off of my chest.

Am I the only person who thought that Helen looked AWFUL? I think she starved herself for the last month. Her face looked unnatural.

Both Mike and Tara looked awesome and like they had been doing things the healthy way.

But Helen? Yikes.

I've been frustrated with Helen ever since she selfishly stayed there when everyone knew her daughter needed to stay. Her daughter seemed afraid to ASK to stay, because Helen wanted this so bad. And for very good reason, she ended up winning. But at what cost?

When they asked Helen if she thought she could win and she looked Tara and Mike up and down, and said "I think I have a pretty good chance." I WANTED TO SMACK HER. She looked so smug the whole show, it almost ruined the whole experience for me.

Personally - I don't want to get so skinny that I look like Helen. I want to look and feel healthy. And I want to still be able to be nice to people and not strut around like I'm better than everyone else!

And even though they didn't win, both Mike and Tara look fabulous and won some pretty cool prizes on the show.

But no matter what the results were . . .

Kristin is still my winner. I think she stayed true to herself the entire show and she looks fabulous. I can't wait to see what she does next.

Happy Thursday! Friday's coming!!

Day 23-25: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-13T08:16:00.003-04:00

I wish I had these days to do over.

I did well on Sunday, but Monday and Tuesday have been a wash.

Right now, I feel like my body is rebelling against me in my need to be healthy. Every time I get motivated and start doing well - I get sick, or some extreme stress happens in my life, or I injure myself. All of these things have happened to me over the past 2 years.

Am I whining? Yes. I am whining. I'm frustrated.

I know that many of the health problems I'm having will get better, just by losing weight. The only problem is that those health problems are making it pretty difficult to exercise.

So - are there any bloggers out there who have had to push through pain and sickness and overcome? I would love to hear your stories and your advice.

I am not giving up.

Day 22: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-11T06:38:00.003-04:00

Saturday was a great day! I ate well, worked out with Maya and Hunkahubby and took a 30 minute walk again in the evening.

I'm still struggling with drinking all my water, but will rectify that today.

Sorry this is a day late - I was too busy getting to be a queen yesterday to post. :-)

I will post Sunday's update later today.

Happy Monday!! Only 4 more days until Friday!

Day 21: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-09T14:43:00.003-04:00

I made sure to take a walk yesterday and did better with my food. I still need to up my water intake some, I'm not sure why I've been slacking the last few days.

I'm looking forward to tomorrow, Mother's Day, so I can fulfill the things that make me feel good about me. Tee hee. :-)

I'm hoping for pancakes . . . they're healthy, right??

Happy Mother's Day Weekend, everyone!

Day 20: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-08T22:10:00.003-04:00

I am slowly doing better. I've started reading this book. I love Bob Harper. He is so inspirational.

Anyway - after having a so-so day, I read the first chapter of this book, then got out of bed, and did a core workout on my own. I was very focused and I felt muscle fatigue. I am inspired to do better for myself, because I'm worth it.

I can't wait to read more of the book and continue to feel better.

Day 19: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-07T17:52:00.003-04:00

Still plugging along. I could be doing a whole lot better, and I know it. The good thing is, I have a great support system in my best friend M and my Hunkahubby. M tries to get me to walk as often as possible, and Hunkahubby doesn't let me gorge myself on junk food at night, no matter how much I whine.

Yesterday I got in some fruit and veggies, but not the full amount - and all of my water. I walked for at least 30 minutes.

For me? I took a very long nap after I got home. These meds make me want to sleep a lot. I guess I need to heal.

I know that next week will be a rebirth of my motivation - so hang in there with me!!!

Day 18: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-06T23:16:00.002-04:00

I'm still kicking. I'm having a rough week because I feel so crappy waiting for my new medicine to kick in.

The good news? I don't feel much like eating. The bad news? I don't feel much like exercising either. But I've managed to get a walk in pretty much every day anyway.

I'm hoping by the end of this week I will be on the upswing. Until then, I'm trying to take care of myself and get plenty of rest.

How are all of you doing?

Day 17: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-05T10:17:00.003-04:00

This is my 100th post! Wow!! Wish I had something fun to give away, but I don't. So instead, I'm going to challenge you to go visit MizFit and join the Woman Challenge!

Yesterday, I did well with water and most of my food. I didn't think I was going to get a workout in (I usually take Mondays off), but I had a rough evening, so my good buddy Michelle and I walked off our frustrations around the neighborhood for about an hour. It made me feel a lot better - both the talking and the walking - so I need to do that more often!

I went to the doctor yesterday due to a few tummy issues that have made me tired and less motivated to work out (things I've dealt with for years). I know that losing weight helps with the symptoms. So along with a few new meds, I'm hoping to start feeling better and feel a lot more like working out!

Today started out rough, so I'm trying to have a positive attitude and get out of my funk.

The good news? I wanted to go to Dunkin Donuts and eat a dozen donuts, but I passed it by and had a Weight Watchers breakfast sandwich instead. So, I'm getting there . . .

Day 15-16: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-04T12:32:00.003-04:00

I forgot to post yesterday. OOPS!!

I finally completed the My Fitness CoachFitness Challenge. I'd lost 2 pounds and was able to eek out a few more pushups this time around. I also lasted a few more minutes with the jumping jacks. MAN do I HATE jumping jacks!

I've been doing well with my water and trying very hard with the veggies and fruit. My biggest problem? Night time. About an hour before bed, I get the munchies.

So, I scoured the internet in search of a way to get rid of the munchies.

Here are a few that I found (click the link to find the entire article).

Keep three or four quarter-pound bags of sliced turkey (from the deli) in the fridge. Choose low-sodium turkey and avoid honey-roasted, smoked or spiced turkey. Each of these ¼ pound bags will have only about 150 calories. If you’re really, truly hungry, the turkey will satisfy you (and give you a tryptophan boost which will help you sleep.) But if you’re just munching, after a few mouthfuls of turkey, you’ll call it quits.
Don't watch TV, make sure you drink a lot of water, brush your teeth, etc.
Tips from the Biggest Losers!

I think what I need to do is start going upstairs around 8:00. I need to get ready for bed, brush my teeth and stay away from the kitchen. Then maybe I will stop the nighttime snacking AND go to bed a bit earlier.

What do you do to stop the munchies??

Day 15: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-02T19:54:00.002-04:00

I did well yesterday, got all my food and water in and did a short workout before bed. I still haven't done the FITNESS CHALLENGE, but I'm getting ready to do it now.

I am so thankful for the beautiful day we had today!!

Happy Saturday!!

Day 14: 44-Day Challenge

2009-05-01T08:11:00.005-04:00

Hello everyone!! Yesterday was an awesome day, for the most part.

I got up before 6 and Hunkahubby and I did a core workout with Maya. I was supposed to complete my Fitness Challenge yesterday, but decided to wait until today to do it.

I had my veggies, most all of my fruit, all of my water, did my workout, updated both of my blogs and spent time with the family.

I'm excited about starting a new habit of getting up early to work out.

Hunkahubby and I discussed having a few days a week where we vary the time. On Fridays, I only work a half day, so we will probably skip that morning and work out when I get home. On weekends, we won't have to get up as early. :-)

Yesterday, I read a great post by my favorite motivator and fitness guru, MizFit, about 6 ways to maximize your workout time.

The main points are:

Don't chat
Plan ahead
Change it up
Use proper form
Set yourself up for success
Visualization

But you must read the whole article for all the great information!

It's FRIDAY!!! Yahoo!!!

Day 13: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-30T07:49:00.004-04:00

I DID IT! I got up before the sun today and worked out! ;-)

Yesterday was a much better day, as I got in all of my fruit and veggies, all of my water and I worked out in the evening with Hunkahubby. I also got a lot of projects completed at work and then I got to eat dinner with my Daddy and SuperStepMommy, so it was a pretty good day.

Although I hate the idea of getting up before 6 a.m. every morning to sweat, I know it is going to make a difference in the way that I feel. I already feel a bit better.

Tonight - I have to retake my fitness challenge on My Fitness Coach to see if I have improved any over 10 workouts. I'll let you know how that goes.

The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives

by altering their attitudes of mind.

- William James

Day 12: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-29T13:05:00.003-04:00

CONFESSION TIME!!

Yesterday was a bad day. I haven't been feeling the greatest and I haven't had a lot of motivation.

I know I didn't get all my fruits and vegetables in.
I did not do any sort of workout.
I drank all of my water!
And the biggest thing I did to try and feel good was lay down. :-(

HOWEVER, I have a plan.

I have had a very hard time getting up on time thanks to a time change that I'm still not used to. So, to help with this AND my motivation, Hunkahubby and I are going to work together.

We will get up before the kids, fix their breakfast and get them started, then go do a 30 minute workout. Then he will go finish helping the kiddos and I'll get ready for work. That way, I'll be more awake and ready for the day.

We will also attempt to get in a short workout in the evening, as it is possible.

I'm hoping this will become a habit!! And I'm telling all of you about it so that you will hold me accountable!!

As for not feeling well, I made a doctor's appointment to try and get that straightened out.

What are you doing to get motivated today?

Day 11: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-28T09:02:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was an okay day.

The workout calendar on My Fitness Coach allows me to pick which days I am working out and which day(s) I get to take off. I chose Monday as my day off because it is always a crazy day.

It was a usual Monday.

BUT - my hubby and daughter came to have a picnic with me at lunch yesterday and brought our beautiful puppy, Murphy.

He and I spent some time running around at the park. He loves to run. I also purposely walked up and down the stairs several times.

I had all my fruit and all of my veggies and all of my water.

For me? I had a picnic with my family, and I watched my favorite show CHUCK last night in hopes that they pick it up next season. I also updated blogs and got a lot of work done, which makes me feel pretty good.

I'm kind of lethargic this week, so I'm going to have to work twice as hard to get motivated to exercise.

Anybody have any great motivational ideas???

Day 10: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-27T09:22:00.004-04:00

Wow! 10 days! Only 34 more to go!!

Yesterday, we spent the day with my Dad. I managed to get all my veggies and fruit in (but probably had a little too much "other" stuff, my SuperStepMommy is an awesome cook). Dang it.

I drank all of my water and we got in a workout about 10:00 last night. (My Fitness Coach
- Maya is going to kill me . . .) I don't recommend working out this late, it makes it hard to sleep afterward.

It was a beautiful day with my family and I felt really good about the entire day.

Today, I'm just bummed that it is so beautiful and I'm stuck inside at work. At least I have a window to see outside.

How are you doing?

My Fitness Coach Review: Part 2

2009-04-26T20:22:00.007-04:00

This is Part 2 of the My Fitness Coach Review. (Part 1 is here.) I will be discussing an actual workout.

After you've completed your profile, you can start working out. One of the really cool things about My Fitness Coach is that if you and your spouse or you and a friend want to work out together, it is possible. If each of you create a profile, you can choose "Group Workout" and Maya will choose a workout that is suitable for both of you and give both of your profiles credit for the workout!

Once you decide you want to start a workout, you can choose what type of workout you want to focus on. Maya will always recommend something with a star, but you can choose whatever you want. You can choose a focus of Yoga, Cardio, Upper Body, Core Body, Lower Body, and Flexibility.

Another cool feature is getting credit for a workout you completed that is not part of the My Fitness Coach program. Did you walk for an hour today? You can choose "get credit" and choose what type of workout you completed and how long.

Now back to the workout . . . once you've chosen what type of workout you want to complete today, you tell Maya how long you want to work out. It is good if you stick with the goal time you set in the beginning, but it is also a good thing this program is flexible.

You can choose what type of music you want to listen to during your workout (and more music choices are unlocked as you progress through the program.) Hip-hop, Eighties, and Latin beats are available in the beginning, but you can eventually unlock Yoga, Dance, Techno, and House beats.

I think this next part is pretty cool. You can choose your workout "environment." (Although technically, Maya is the only one who actually gets to BE in the environment.) I like the Empress' Dojo - it reminds me of the Matrix. Or Kung Fu Panda, I'm not sure which. ;-)

Throughout the game, you get little fitness tips.

My only real complaint has to do with the beat. Before each new workout, Maya says, "hold on while I get the beat". Usually Maya does a good job of staying on the beat, but coming from a dance background, I get a little frustrated when she does something funky when switching between exercises. The good thing is, I just keep going and ignore her when she doesn't do it right (in my opinion).

Once Maya gets the beat, she starts a warm-up, goes through the workout, and does a cool down.

You tell her at the beginning of each workout what fitness equipment you have (or want to use) and she works it in, if it makes sense for that particular workout.

As you work out, a clock keeps track of how much longer you have to work out and the difficulty level of each move. Along the bottom, each exercise scrolls across the screen, so you always know what is coming up.

Throughout the workout, Maya will give you rest periods, and will ask you how you did in the previous segment. You can say, No Sweat, I Was Working Hard, or I Could Barely Keep Up.

If you say "No Sweat", BEWARE. Maya will up your workout the next time around. So only say this if you truly mean it!! If you say "I was working hard," she will keep you at the same level and if you say "I could barely keep up" she'll take it down a notch for you the next time.

According to the book, after every 10th workout, Maya will have you do the Fitness test again and it will update your progress graphs.

Over the next few weeks, I'll take more pictures (and maybe convince Hunkahubby to let me take pictures of him in action) and show you more about the workouts.

So far, I think it is a simple but very effective program and is a good choice to add to your workout regime!!

Have any of you tried My Fitness Coach? What are your thoughts?

Day 9: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-26T20:19:00.002-04:00

It was a good day. I think I had more fruit than vegetables, but I ate healthy and drank tons of water. I didn't do a specific workout, as I felt crappy at the end of the day. But in the morning, we rushed around cleaning the house and I know I burned quite a few calories.

I got to see several old friends and I filled my quota to the brim on doing things that made me feel good. :-)

Next up - Part 2 of the My Fitness Coach Review!

My Fitness Coach Review: Part 1

2009-04-25T13:08:00.011-04:00

This is my review of the Wii game My Fitness Coach.

First of all, I want to point out that you DO NOT need the Wii Fit to play this game. If you have the main Wii Console, you can play this "game".

Okay, the first screen you see when you start up My Fitness Coach is this:

You have to build your personal profile so "Maya" the personal trainer can learn everything she needs to know about you. (Yes, for those of us who are struggling, this part is a TAD painful.)

You choose New Profile and enter the following information:

Your name.

Choose which exercise equipment you have at home.
If you don't have any of these things, that's fine too! (I really need to get a heart monitor.)

Go weigh yourself and tell Maya how much you weigh.
(Doesn't she know it is rude to ask a person such things?)

You might need a partner to complete this next part.

Maya asks you for a bunch of body measurements.
So go grab a tape measure and a friend and give Maya your measurements for your:

biceps
chest
waist
hips
thighs.

Glad that is over with!!

Then you follow the directions to find your resting heart rate.
After you've entered that, you get to do a fun thing called
TOO MANY JUMPING JACKS FOR SOMEONE WHO IS OUT OF SHAPE!

You click to start the timer, do jumping jacks in time with the model for 2 minutes
(if you don't die first), and then take your pulse again.
You enter your accelerated heart rate.

After than, Maya asks you a few more questions,
but don't think you're anywhere near to being off the hook.

Tell Maya what your activity level has been over the last 6 months.
Be honest. Believe me.
Otherwise, she'll kill you.

Now comes the really fun part.

SQUATS.

You do squats in time with the model, as many as you complete using proper form (up to 50) and then enter the amount you were able to complete.

Then you do the same thing with push-ups (up to 40).
(And yes, she lets us girls do the modified ones.)

Then you do crunches (up to 60).

Then, you do a flexibility test and match which picture
is most like how far you were able to reach.

Finally, you tell Maya what your primary goal is for using this program.
Maya recommends that I choose weight loss.
THANKS A LOT. Like I didn't know that! ;-)

You can then choose a goal weight that you want to strive for.

Maya recommends a workout schedule for you. You can click on each day and change the days you want to work out and the amount of time you want to work out each day.
(I changed mine around so I worked out on different days,
but kept the amount of time the same or added a little bit more.)

When you're done, you have a profile that Maya will update with each workout.

If you aren't used to working out - this first initial setup is quite a workout on its own.
So far, this is really like having a personal trainer
(except you can actually shut this one off!)

Tomorrow, I'll go through the steps of a workout with you!

Day 8: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-25T10:57:00.004-04:00

I had a very active day yesterday. I took the day off and spent the day with my husband and youngest daughter. She only has about 5 more weeks before her alone time with Mommy and Daddy will go away, as she starts kindergarten in the fall and school for this year is almost out.

We went to the zoo and to some other places in Indianapolis and we did a lot of purposeful walking. About 2 hours worth.

We had a great time.

I had all of my fruits and veggies, more than all of my water, and the great day I had with such beautiful weather was enough to make me feel good about myself times 4!

Stay tuned later today for part 1 of the My Fitness Coach review!!

Day 7: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-24T08:41:00.002-04:00

Woohoo! One whole week!!

Yesterday was a very good day.

My eating was good, I drank tons of water, and I worked out not once, but TWICE. I really like My Fitness Coach and I can't wait to tell you all about it.

My clothes are starting to fit a little better and I'm starting to like myself a little more.

While watching the Biggest Loser this week, I realized that I am often my own worst enemy when it comes to weight loss and health. I think deep down inside, I'm not sure I'm worth it, so I don't work as hard or stick with things like I should.

The thing is - I am worth it.

I need to type that again . . . I AM WORTH IT.

And so are you . . .

Let's make next week even better!!

Day 6: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-23T08:47:00.005-04:00

Wow! We've made it almost a week!!

Day 6 was a MUCH better day for me. I didn't quite hit all of my check boxes, but I overcompensated in others.

I walked around the neighborhood for about 30 minutes. Later on, hubby and I worked out using My Fitness Coach. So far, I really like it. (Review is coming this weekend.)

I had about 6 servings of veggies. (YAY!)

I had one serving of fruit. (waah).

I drank my water. (YAY!)

I exercised. (YAY!)

Hmmm. What did I do to make myself feel good?

Well, I walked and it was a nice day, so that was good.

I caught up on this week's Biggest Loser which always has great tips (like the new Ziploc brand Zip 'n Steam Microwave Cooking Bags). Although I am VERY disappointed in the outcome.

I watched American Idol (guilty pleasure).

I spent alone time with my hubby. (Yay!!)

All in all, it was a good day. I'm looking forward to today!!!

Day 5: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-22T15:29:00.003-04:00

Okay. I admit it. Yesterday was not a good day.

It started out really well. I had a healthy breakfast and lunch and was drinking my water and preparing for my workout in the evening.

Then I went to the dentist.

I have not had dental insurance for quite some time, so I haven't been to the dentist in a while.

And my dentist appointment was a tad, well, how do I put this nicely?

IT FRICKIN HURT!!! A LOT!!! And I don't care if I'm being a baby. I had some work done I didn't know I was going to need, and by the time I was done, I thought I was going to die.

I left the dentist office, called my husband, and bawled like a baby. I popped Ibuprofen and Tylenol for the rest of the evening and went to bed at 9.

So my checklist for Day 5?! The heck with it! It didn't happen!!!

BUT - I am back on track today and plan on working out this evening.

I hope your day was better than mine!!

Day 4: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-21T09:02:00.005-04:00

Mondays are the worst.

(image from Garfield.com)

A cool feature of the My Fitness Coach Wii Game is setting up a workout calendar. Your trainer suggests a schedule for you and then you can move it around to fit your schedule. I chose Monday as my day off from working out because I knew I would never have time on Mondays. I was so right, especially yesterday!

Luckily, I saw this post yesterday about N.E.P.A. (Non-Exercise Physical Activity).

The challenge states that you must do some sort of physical activity every day - so I worked it in the best I could without a formal workout.

Parking clear out in Siberia at Walmart? Check. Caught in a torrential rainstorm on my way back to the car with groceries? Check.

(image from Garfield.com)

BUT . . . I survived another Monday and I'm thankful it's Tuesday!!

On to the checklist:

Fruit? Check.

Veggies? Check (maybe a 1/2 cup short, but close.)

Water? Check. (Most of my N.E.P.A. is coming from running to the bathroom every 10 minutes!)

Exercise? I added in as much N.E.P.A. as I could throughout the day.

Me time? I updated my blog. Check. I played Bejeweled Blitz on FaceBook (it's an addiction). Check. I finished up some things I had been procrastinating on. CHECK CHECK (that counts as two, it was a lot.)

So far, so good! I'm so glad I'm finally motivated again!

How about you?

Day 3: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-20T09:24:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was another good day!

I am really hoping that sticking to this for 44 days will create a HABIT!!

I worked out for the first time using the Wii My Fitness Coach, and I already hate my virtual personal trainer - but I'm sore this morning, so it must have worked!

I've taken lots of pictures of the 'game' and I hope to post a full review sometime this week.

On to the checklist:

Fruits? Yep!
Veggies? Yep!
Water? Yep!
ME? 2 blogs, I got a massage, and I worked out which made me feel good about myself AND made me hurt. But I guess that's good.

Today is my first day of the challenge at WORK. So far, so good. Hunkahubby packed me food to bring with me. (Isn't he wonderful?)

Keep going!! We can do it!!!

Day 2: 44-Day Challenge

2009-04-19T10:23:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was a good day!

4 servings of fruit? CHECK.
4 servings of vegetables? CHECK.
Exercise? CHECK (OUCH) CHECK
44 ounces of water? CHECK (48)!

4 things that made me feel good about myself?

I updated my blogs. CHECK CHECK (that counts as two!)
I spent time with my family. CHECK
I got artistic with Hunkahubby and created a mixed media drawing. I am not an artist, but it was really fun! CHECK

How are you doing?

My Fitness Coach Review - coming soon!!

44-Day Challenge: DAY 1

2009-04-18T12:01:00.002-04:00

It's Day 1 of the 44-day Challenge and I'm off to a great start!

I woke up this morning, feeling like I've flipped that "switch" in my mind that makes me WANT to be healthy. I love it when the switch is on! Now I just have to KEEP IT THERE!

I had my favorite Special K cereal this morning with skim milk and a bowl of fruit.

I finally opened up the new Wii game I bought (My Fitness Coach) which I will be reviewing soon. I did the beginning fitness test and set up my profile. (Believe me, the fitness test was QUITE a workout - but Hunkahubby and I will be doing an ACTUAL workout this evening.)

I'm working on my water - need to DRINK UP and move on to the next bottle.

AND - I'm updating both of my blogs! Woohoo! I'm pumped about this!

I will try and update each day, and if you're doing this with me - let me know how you're doing!

Amy's 44-day Challenge

2009-04-17T10:07:00.003-04:00

An old friend and Colleague, Amy just posted a challenge that I am up for - and I think you should be too!

The challenge is simple.

For the next 44 days (that's until June 1st) do the following:

get some type of exercise EVERY DAY.
get at least 44oz. of water (that's about three 16 oz bottles or about six 8 oz. cups of water)
Eat 4 servings of fruit (1/2 c.) and 4 servings of veggies (1 cup)
Do 4 things each day that make you feel good about yourself!!!

I got really excited about this. And I think it is because I NEEDED someone to challenge me to get off my butt and get back in gear. Summer's coming - and so is the rest of my life! I need to get to it!

I think the first 3 will actually be easier for me than the last one.

But I have learned that one of the things that makes me feel good about myself is writing and BLOGGING. So now I have a reason and a challenge to get back into it!

Who wants to do Amy's challenge with me?

Start Walking!

2009-04-08T08:19:00.002-04:00

Today is National Start Walking Day!

Go here to sign up and learn more!

The Fiber Bars War

2009-03-24T08:41:00.006-04:00

Yes! It's time for the Fiber Bars War. In the past several weeks, I've noticed several new fiber bars on the grocery shelves and I decided I needed to compare them.

Today, I am comparing the Fiber One Oats & Chocolate bar (a personal favorite of mine up to this point), the Quaker Fiber & Omega-3 Dark Chocolate Chunk bar, and the Kellogg's Fiber Plus Antioxidants Dark Chocolate Almond bar.

The one thing I want to mention up front is that they are all pretty close to the same size, but the Kellogg's bar is a tad smaller. Also, they all contain 9 grams of fiber. That's a pretty big chunk of your daily fiber intake! (Want to know how much fiber you should eat per day? Check here.)

First, we have the Fiber One Oats & Chocolate bar, which has been around a while. I even talked about it in an earlier post. It is very tasty and was even mentioned as a good snack choice on The Biggest Loser. However, many people think these bars contain too much sugar to constitute a regular go-to snack. (And if that's the case, then some people may not eat ANY of these bars . . . but me? I'm willing to take the risk.)

The next bar is a new bar from Quaker. It is also very tasty and very comparable to the Fiber One bar. I liked it, but there wasn't anything that made it stand out from my Fiber One staple.

Finally, we have the Fiber Plus bar from Kellogg's. I have to admit, I AM IN LOVE with this bar. Maybe it is unfair that I'm putting it up agains the other sad nut-less fiber bars - but the addition of almonds to this bar is just YUMMY. It has become my favorite fiber bar of choice.

But how do these bars stack up nutritionally??

Let's find out! I've created a chart below that compares the nutritional information of each bar.

Dietary Information	Kellogg's	Fiber One	Quaker
Calories	130	140	150
Total Fat	5g	4g	4g
Sodium	50mg	90mg	35mg
Dietary Fiber	9g	9g	9g
Sugars	7g	10g	7g
Protein	2g	2g	2g
Calcium	10%	10%	-
Iron	4%	2%	4%
Vitamin E	20%	-	-
Zinc	20%	-	-
WWP*	2	2	3

They are all pretty comparable - but I believe my new love, The Fiber Plus bar wins this war! Less calories and 1g added fat, but added vitamins and AWESOME flavor. I don't even care that it is a little bit smaller!!

I thought maybe the almonds made the difference, but when I went to the store recently, I found another flavor of Fiber Plus - Chocolate Chip. Amazingly, the stats are the same as the bar with Almonds, except it only has 120 calories and 4g of fat. Woohoo!!

So the next time you're in the grocery store - pick up your fiber bar of choice - you'll be glad you did. (Especially if you pick this one!)

I'm so distracted . . .

2009-02-04T19:02:00.000-05:00

I hope you can understand why. :-)

Still on the way down . . .

2009-02-02T07:19:00.003-05:00

I lost another 1.4 pounds this week. I'm a little frustrated, because it seems to be coming off a lot slower this time around. (Punishment for my 6 month stress fest.)

I need to start scheduling my day better - as I work at a desk job all day and then I have to come home and grade papers for my online classes that I teach. My life is sitting in a chair!

I'm considering buying one of these.

Do you sit a lot for your job? What kind of things do YOU do to keep active in these situations?

Calories?

2009-01-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

One thing I'm always trying to figure out is how many calories I really need each day, and how much I burn. Obviously, if you burn more calories than you take in, you'll lose weight.

I found an awesome website (which I've probably mentioned before - but it's just THAT awesome) that calculates your BMR and RMR (Basal Metabolic Rate and Resting Metabolic Rate). These are basically the number of calories you burn if you do absolutely nothing for 24 hours.

But this website also has a really cool activity calculator where you put in your weight and the amount of minutes you do something. If you keep track of all of your activities in a twenty-four hour period, you could see how many calories you've burned.

Got a minute? Check out Calories Per Hour and their informative calculators!

Reviewing the Bender Ball!

2009-01-28T15:15:00.004-05:00

Today I am reviewing the Bender Ball!

I'd seen an advertisement for the Bender Ball several times, and thought it might be something that would work out well for Hunkahubby and I. Their informercial and website claims: "The Bender Ball gives you a workout that's up to 408% more effective than ordinary crunches."

Because of some issues I've heard and read about regarding ordering items off of informercials (which I'll explain in more detail below) - I went searching for my Bender Ball on eBay.

It came with the ball (flat), a plastic straw-like tube and a plug, and an instructional DVD. Hunkahubby inflated the ball for me. (He's good like that . . . .)

Hunkahubby and I had both discussed that we should just buy a kid's kick ball from Wal-mart and use that. But I'm glad that we didn't. The Bender Ball just "feels" different.

Here's the inflated Bender Ball:

Hunkahubby also did the good hubby thing and watched parts of the instructional video so he could be my (and yours, if you're reading this) personal instructor on using the bender ball.

The first time I used it, I was a little wary - because it almost feels like you're laying on a balloon that could pop at any minute. So far - that hasn't happened! :-)

Here our gorgeous instructor shows us where to place the ball if we're going to do crunches.

The main perk of the Bender Ball is how it lets you extend back more than you would with a regular crunch.

Up!

And back!

You can also work your sides, by performing a scooping motion with your arms on each side.

When I did this it made feel like a really graceful ballerina, and then I felt silly after thinking that. No one wants to see ME in a tutu. (My family always said we'd have to wear four-fours.)

This next thing is my FAVORITE exercise. You put the bender ball under your booty.

And you raise your legs in the air, like this:

Ummm . . . what was I talking about? Oh yes, the exercise.
Sorry, I got distracted for a minute for some reason.

Then you slowly raise one leg at a time. This really works my thighs - but it doesn't feel strenuous. In fact, it makes me feel relaxed.

Personally, both HunkaHubby and I are fans of the Bender Ball. There are more exercises that we have yet to explore - and we will hopefully update you on more as we learn them.

Again, this is a small exercise item that you could pretty much take with you anywhere.

Now for a word of caution: I have read on several website, and heard personal accounts of people who ordered the Bender Ball off of TV or through their website. Many "As Seen On TV" items have a "catch." They aren't just trying to get you to buy one item, but an entire line of things. And if you don't realize what you're getting into - items you didn't order will get charged to your card and start showing up at your house. And it is really hard to get these things returned and get your money back.

So my advice is to research ANYTHING before you buy it. And if you don't want to belong to the 'fitness gadgets I don't really want club", then I suggest you buy things such as this off of eBay, Amazon.com, or in stores, if available.

Do you have a Bender Ball? Do you love it? Why? Do you hate it? Please share.

I want to know!!

Reviewing the JumpSnap!

2009-01-28T14:44:00.003-05:00

Yes, I'm finally reviewing my fun new gadget - the JumpSnap Ropeless Jump Rope.

The JumpSnap comes with two jump rope handles, a handy carrying case and weights that you put inside the handles to help with arm strength. (You can add up to 3.)

You can set up your JumpSnap for 2 different users. Enter your height and weight and it keeps track of the number of calories burned, number of jumps, and how long you've been jumping.

You can also choose to have the jump rope 'snapping' sound while you jump or you can turn it off. I think the snapping sound helps with getting into the "jump rope rhythm".

There is a TALK button that you can press if you're too lazy to look at the readout (or too blind to see the digital numbers, or you like to jump rope in pitch darkness) - and it will tell you how many calories you've burned, number of jumps, and amount of time spent jumping.

Just remember to CLEAR the numbers each time you jump or you'll think you're done before you start. ;-)

Here, my beautiful Hunkahubby is showing us how he jumps rope with the PINK JumpSnap that he is threatening to spray paint. (Notice his fuzzy audience?)

(Please ignore the basket of hangers in the background - focus on the kitty instead . . . yes, the poor thing is having trouble healing from her spay surgery and has to wear an e-collar.)

So - as you can see - the JumpSnap is not only a great exercise tool - but also great entertainment for cats!

I really like the JumpSnap so far. You can take it with you to hotels, use it while you're watching TV and you can use it for short spurts of time. You can use it anywhere and not have to worry about breaking things!!

I like to jump for 10 minutes, put it away for a while and then come back and jump for another 10 minutes. Jump Rope is a great calorie burner! (See this calorie burning chart.) I'm sure I'll work up to longer periods of time as I get used to the idea of working out every day!

The only issue I've found so far is that sometimes you can "cheat" your number of jumps if you wiggle just right, but it doesn't happen often enough to bother me. It definitely gets my heart rate up and gives me a pretty good workout.

JumpSnap also comes with a short DVD that helps you set up your JumpSnap (if you don't like reading directions and would rather someone basically read them TO you) and also has a few short workouts (which I haven't watched yet.) I hope to watch them soon and give you an update on the other types of exercises you can perform using this cool new gadget!

You can buy the JumpSnap at the official website, or on websites such as eBay or Amazon.com. The pink Breast Cancer version is on sale right now, and so I purchased mine on Amazon.

Do you have a JumpSnap? Do you love it? Hate it? Let me know in the comment area below!

Tomorrow, I'll review the Bender Ball!

Gadget Time - THIS WEEK

2009-01-25T18:53:00.003-05:00

I'm determined to post my gadget updates this week.

But to let you know what I'm up to - I'll let you know what I'll be reviewing so you'll know if it is worth your time to come back!

1. Jillian Michaels' Wii Fit game
2. The JumpSnap
3. The Bender Ball

And anything else I get my hands on between now and then. :-)

As an update for me - I'm still tracking my food every day and I've actually been getting a few more workouts in! I weigh in tomorrow, so here's hoping the scale is good to me!

Until next time . . .

Healthy Food and Fiber Fit

2009-01-23T11:09:00.003-05:00

I've been meaning to review these for a while now.

A few weeks ago, I picked up a new South Beach Living item - Fiber Fit Granola Bars.

They have two flavors at present - S'mores and Mocha. And I have to tell you - they are REALLY yummy.

(Picture from http://www.southbeachdiet.com/sbd/publicsite/how-it-works/convenience-foods2.aspx)

The S'mores bars are my favorite - the marshmallow-y top . . . mmmmmmmm.

The Mocha bars are great for those who love that coffee flavor (it was almost too strong for me.)

Nutritional Information:

120 Calories

4g Fat

0mg Cholesterol

125mg Sodium

80mg Potassium

25g Carbohydrate (9g Dietary Fiber)

2g Protein

These are not something I would eat every day - but on those days where I'm REALLY craving something sweet - these do the trick!!

Still tracking, still losing

2009-01-19T18:05:00.002-05:00

I lost a pound this past week, and that is better than nothing! I just got something exciting via UPS, that Hunkahubby and I are going to test out and then review for you here.

I don't want to give away the secret just yet.

I'm doing well at tracking everything I eat and keeping within my allotted "points" for the day - but I'm still struggling with adding consistent activity every day.

Hopefully, my new gadget will be an inspiration.

More soon!

Quick update

2009-01-14T09:58:00.002-05:00

I am still tracking everything I eat every day and my weight is steadily going back down, thank goodness.

This week, my exercise is part of work. I have to run up and down the stairs several times a day, along with packing and moving boxes of documents. :-)

I promise that sometime this week I will post a few cool updates.

Hunkahubby and I have purchased a few new exercise gadgets and I look forward to reviewing them for you.

Happy Wednesday!!

Back to losing . . .

2009-01-12T08:26:00.004-05:00

I lost 3.8 pounds this past week. I've tracked every single thing that I've eaten and I'm slowly getting back into the habit of exercising, thanks to the help of Hunkahubby.

I'm frustrated because I look back to June of last year and how well I was doing, and I'm trying to decide what it was that frustrated me so much that I gave up and gave in. I know I had a plateau for a long time where I didn't lose but I didn't gain either - and I need to find a better way to get through those without giving up. I still have a ways to go before I get back to where I was in June. :-(

Stay tuned this week for some Healthy Food Finds, Wii game reviews, and other exercise information.

Happy Monday!

Back in the saddle again . . .

2009-01-09T10:07:00.003-05:00

Well, after eating way too much over the holiday season and struggling to fit into my pants - I'm back it again with more willpower than ever before. :-)

I got a new Wii game that uses the Wii Balance Board that I will be using and reviewing on here. I've also found some cool new food finds, and I'll be talking about the new Weight Watchers Momentum plan.

I'm looking forward to catching up with all of you and working toward our common goal of overall wellness!

I'm trapped under something heavy . . .

2008-12-09T21:21:00.001-05:00

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!

2008-11-24T08:10:00.003-05:00

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!!

2008-11-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

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

2008-11-20T08:40:00.007-05:00

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!

2008-11-18T06:00:00.001-05:00

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

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

2008-11-17T06:45:00.004-05:00

(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 . . .

2008-11-14T08:35:00.004-05:00

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!

2008-11-13T08:49:00.004-05:00

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!

2008-11-12T08:08:00.002-05:00

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!!!