Fighting the Fat

2012 - a new year...a new me

2012-01-05T12:03:00.000-05:00

I read the other day that an aide in losing weight was to blog. So, that's what I intend to do...blog regularly. Maybe not every single day, because I'm not exactly a great writer, like so many blogs I do read. But, I want this to hold me accountable to myself, and to others maybe that might be reading my blog.

It's a new year...and time for a new me. My life is changing drastically, and soon it will just be me and my 2 boys. I'm healing from that, and now is the best time to take care of me. I have several goals and plans for 2012 for my new life, one that most definitely includes God in my life, and the healing He will do.

So, without further ado...

GOALS / PLANS for 2012 (in no particular order)

Train and run a 1/2 marathon (or 2)
Sign up for the bodybuilding.com Transformation Challenge
Read the Bible - every day (I'm already behind in this)
Organize my house, declutter, decorate it to my style
Take my boys camping this summer
Get my finances in order, and snowball some debt out of the way
Save for Christmas
Visit more with my girlfriends (once/month)
Visit with my cousins (once/month)
Call or visit my Grandma (once/month)
LOSE 40lbs
Blog regularly
Learn to eat clean - fuel for body!!

Mad...no more to say

2011-08-04T10:27:00.000-04:00

I start...again. Frustrated, mad, discouraged, depressed with myself. But I never stop trying. Today ... as always, I start over. Day 1.

Perfect 10 SW ~ 157.8
7/7/11 WI ~ 164
7/14/11 WI ~ None on vacation
7/21/11 WI ~ 165.2
7/28/11 WI ~ 164.8
8/4/11 WI ~ 167.4 (WTH?!!)

Dear God, hear my plea...hear my cries. I do not want to go this way. What is wrong with me? Can you please help me get back on the right track, hold my hand - pick me up and carry me, as I'm so hurting right now. I want to lose weight, not gain it! Thank you Lord...in Jesus name I pray...Amen

Weekend Days 2 -4 Updates

2011-08-01T16:04:00.000-04:00

Weekends are tough. I know it, you know it...the key is to not let them get you down, try your hardest and just move forward when they are over. Preparing for them helps, but isn't always successful.

My weekend started out great. Football practice for my little guy didn't happen. I don't know if it wasn't scheduled or what, but that was the first kink in my plan. I had already decided to go walk the track while he was at practice. When we got there and no one was there I ALMOST talked myself out of walking. But then I was like, nope...starting the weekend off on the right foot, and I did it. Walked 2 miles while the boys ran around the football field.

Saturday I prepared a healthy breakfast to start the day off right. I did pretty good, and even planned my indulgences (snack and dinner). So I'm happy about that.

Sunday rolled around, woke up late so couldn't eat my healthy breakfast I had prepared Saturday. By the time I got around to lunch (1:30) I was STARVING. This is where it all went down the drain. But, the wonderful thing with WW (old points) is that I have flex points I can use. I used every single one yesterday. Means I have 3 days of being GOOD! I will still earn my AP to give me a few extras, but the key is to totally stay within my 22pts/day range! I CAN DO IT!! I want Thursday to come around and me be super happy with what the scale says!!! I know how to do this, I can do this!!!

Day 2 Friday
NUTRITION: 4pts
22pts/day - I used my AP's and a FP but still within! (25-2-1)- 1pt
Eat 7 - 10 freggis/day (7)- 1pt
Drink minimum of 80 oz h20 (100) - 1pt
Journal - 1pt

EXERCISE: 2pts
Workout ran laps at track and ran bleachers - 1pt
Earn enough AP to support healthy eating - 1pt

EXTRAS: 3pts
Get at least 7hrs sleep (7hrs) - 1pt
Blog regularly (Yep!) - 1pt
Email/Twitter/FB/Txt friends for support/accountability (Heather & Sarah) - 1pt

TOTAL: 9pts, didn't quite meet the goal, but still good.

Day 3 Saturday
NUTRITION: 4pts
22pts/day - I used my FP but still within! (37-15)- 1pt
Drink minimum of 80 oz h20 (85) - 1pt
Allow ONE PI Meal (ate cheeseburger and fries at the track) TWO snacks (homemade banana pudding) - 1pt
Journal - 1pt

EXERCISE: 0pts

EXTRAS: 2pts
Get at least 7hrs sleep (7hrs) - 1pt
Email/Twitter/FB/Txt friends for support/accountability (Heather & Sarah) - 1pt

TOTAL: 6pts

Day 4 Sunday
NUTRITION: 3pts
22pts/day - I used the rest of my FP but still within! (40-18)- 1pt
Drink minimum of 80 oz h20 (80) - 1pt
Journal - 1pt

EXERCISE: 0pts

EXTRAS: 2pts
Get at least 7hrs sleep (7hrs) - 1pt
Email/Twitter/FB/Txt friends for support/accountability (Heather & Sarah) - 1pt

TOTAL: 5pts

*Realization here, need to earn more points on the weekend...weekends are indeed tough. But to be successful I know I really need to tackle them head on!!!

Today, a new day...a fresh start...and I'm ready!

Day 1 Update

2011-07-29T14:00:00.000-04:00

After my blog yesterday something started to turn inside me...and yes, something began to click. I got my hand-dandy phone out and started texting 2 of my good friends to help get me motivated. And that's just the key...helping each other out. I'm happy to report that it was successful, and so thankful to have text both my girls! It is the plan to continue, so that we can always keep each other in check!!!

Here is my points update:

NUTRITION: 4pts
22pts/day - I used my AP's and a FP but still within! (25-2-1)- 1pt
Eat 7 - 10 freggis/day (7)- 1pt
Drink minimum of 80 oz h20 (100) - 1pt
Journal - 1pt

EXERCISE: 3pts
Workout ran laps at track and ran bleachers - 1pt
Earn enough AP to support healthy eating - 1pt
Start training for 1/2 marathon (running) - 1pt

EXTRAS: 3pts
Get at least 7hrs sleep (7hrs) - 1pt
Blog regularly (yesterday!) - 1pt
Email/Twitter/FB/Txt friends for support/accountability (Heather & Sarah) - 1pt

TOTAL: 10pts!! Met my goal of 10 - 14pts/day

Now here's to another day!! :)

Does it ever just "click"

2011-07-28T16:05:00.001-04:00

Yeah, yeah...I know. So much for blogging regularly right?! And you know what that also means, yeah...haven't been on track what-so-ever. I just never give up though, so today starts fresh again. Thinking that maybe a daily points thing might work better. So, with my goals I posted a few weeks ago, I will get points for each of them that I complete each day. Earning 10-14pts/day is the goal. I'm going to go fill up my calendar days with little smiley faces for every one! Oh I feel like I'm in school again!! Hoping this little "incentive" works.

Honestly, I know what to do...I have done it for a long time. It's the figuring out WHY I'm NOT doing it...why won't it just "click" into place again.

Perfect 10 SW ~ 157.8
7/7/11 WI ~ 164
7/14/11 WI ~ None on vacation
7/21/11 WI ~ 165.2
7/28/11 WI ~ 164.8

How to do it...

2011-07-07T10:27:00.002-04:00

It's been a long time since I really laid out some goals. Both fitness and body. I know it's easy to say "yeah, I wanna lose 30lbs and be at goal weight". But honestly I have finally figured out there is much more than that. Not only do I want to lose those last 30'ish pounds, but I also want to be in SHAPE. Be tone, and feel GREAT about myself. Right now I'm far from that. I feel horrible and defeated. To reach my goals I know that this list is important

NUTRITION
22pts/day and re-figure when weight is lost
Eat 7-10 freggies/day
Drink a minimum of 80oz h20/day
Journal EVERY SINGLE DAY
Allow ONE PI (Planned Indulgence) meal and TWO PI snacks / week
Produce with protein
Breakfast like a queen, lunch like a princess, dinner like a peasant

EXERCISE
Workout 5-6 days/week (even if only 15 mins!)
Earn enough activity points to support my healthy eating
Bump up to 15 pushups at a time (currently at 10)
Be able to do a pull up (this requires PRACTICE Mandie)
Play at the playground to get myself in shape for Warrior Dash next month
Start training for 1/2 marathon in November (RUN!)

EXTRAS
Get at least 7hrs of sleep/night
Monthly measurements and pics
Blog regularly

I will re-evaluate this in 2 months

Today that stops

2011-07-07T09:35:00.003-04:00

Every weigh day comes with dread because I know I haven't done my best. Today that stops. I managed to lose .2 lb, after a big 4lb gain last week. When I try and figure out what the heck is wrong with me, WHY, knowing how unhappy I am with my weight, I draw a blank. Today that stops. Weekends have always been the blame, but when the weigh day has changed to later in the week and you still have a crappy weigh in, weekends aren't the only things messing me up. Today that stops.

Today I restart Weight Watchers (the old points). In the past I have lost 75lbs. I'm up 10lbs from my lowest, and gradually that 10lbs has creeped on. I have been focusing on calories, using sparkpeople, making sure my protein intake has been good. Today though I will still use sparkpeople for support, encouragement, I will restart my paper journals for WW. IT WORKS for me!!! I don't know why the calorie counting DOES NOT...but it honestly just DOES NOT.

Today I make that commitment to change. I will still eat healthy clean foods, watch my protein intake, and exercise like I have been (and more)... but today I feel comfortable knowing I will succeed with WW.

Perfect 10 SW ~ 157.8
7/7/11 WI ~ 164 (BLAH)

Perfect 10

2011-06-21T10:38:00.002-04:00

I am joining Christine's 10 Week Calorie Counting Challenge --June 21st-August 30th, 2011.

Yeah I'm sure it won't be a perfect 10...but I'm going to aim for a GREAT 10 weeks of this challenge. I need this challenge.

Define your Ultimate Goal: Weight loss (10-20 lbs?), health, fitness, clothing sizes, lifestyle changes? My Ultimate Goal is to lose the remaining 30'ish pounds that I have been struggling with for years. I also would REALLY like to have a NORMAL BMI. Sick of the overweight and obese ones!!! Clothing ...single digits, need I say more?!!!! And overall I'd just like to eat healthier, cleaner meals. Produce plus protein = supportive meals!
How many calories do YOU need to maintain your current weight? For the purpose of this challenge, take your current weight x10 to get your daily maintenance calorie goal. Interestingly this shows 1600 calories (give or take a few). I believe my calorie intake should be between 1500 - 1793.
Define your exercise goals: A good target goal is to burn 250-500 calories per day. My range I want to aim for is 250 - 500 calories per day.
Define your food/intake goals: A good target goal is to eat 250-500 calories less than maintenance (see #2) daily. Again, this one I'm keeping my calories at 1500 - 1793. After figuring my BMR and TDEE this is what I come up with.
Patience and consistency: Give it time to add up, don't give up before it all starts to pay off! Easier said than done...right? :)

I will be using Sparkpeople to track my food and exercise. My Spark Page

Here's to a great 10 weeks! Hopefully by the end of the 10 weeks I will be at least 10lbs lighter!!!

My starting weight (weighed in on Thursday 6/16/11) is 157.8

Guess Who?!!

2011-03-17T10:46:00.003-04:00

Alright, it's been forever and a day since I wrote here. Many things were going on in my life, and I honestly just wasn't "fighting the fat". I have been trying to get back on track, pretty unsuccessfully, and have been fluctuating with the same damn 5-10lbs. I'm currently up this week, thanks to a mini vacation. Can you say, buffets, desserts, and free drinks?!!! Yeah, up 3.6lbs.

So, I think I left off that my husband and I were working on things, and that is still happening. We are actually at a better place now than we have been in a long time. I'm happy, and I believe he is too. We just celebrated our 3rd anniversary, and actually our mini vacation was kind of for that. Just the 2 of us... we had a wonderful time, and I love him so much. I pray it only continues.

Unfortunately though, I'm still struggling with the weight. I have been doing a Biblical approach using the Bible Study "The Lord's Table", which has helped me in soooo many ways, just not exactly weightloss. It would, if I would let it...but I just haven't. I don't know what my stinking problem is!!!

Well, yesterday my boss asked me to watch a video it was meatvideo.com . I was so shocked, saddened, and moved that it prompted me to go vegetarian (vegan if I can) for at least 30 days. I have NEVER once considered this in my whole life...but this video truly pushed me to try. I am still so SHOCKED that there isn't more gov't regulations for the way these animals are raised and killed. UGH!

So...if anyone has any tips on being vegetarian (vegan??) PLEASE HELP ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Today...as always, I start over again!!!!! I hope to blog more regularly too!!!

Gag Week 5 Challenge

2010-11-03T09:17:00.002-04:00

I know, I have once again neglected my blog. Phooey!! I'm super busy these days with getting ready to start a new job and cleaning my desk off. Plus I try to blog at Sparkpeople since that's where I track my calories. Then I just space about blogging here.

The GAG challenge is going well. I should be doing better that's for sure. But I'm at least losing little by little. For this week's challenge we are supposed to look over our goals and revamp them if necessary. Okay, to be honest, not sure I even CREATED goals?!!! So, now is the time to do that!!!!

Nutrition ~ This is a tricky one. I know that nutrition is 90% of the equation. I'm going to focus on eating clean. I will still track my calories, but honestly I'm going to focus more on eating clean.

Exercise ~ Back into strength. I'd like to really push forward and aim for some GREAT activity, including P90x as well as running and other cardio.

But to answer the GAG questions....

1. What goals should you revamp? ~ I'm going to focus MORE on eating clean (less carbs), I need to really do better on the weekends. More activity, more structure, and even a hobby would be smart!!!

2. What NEW Goals should you add? ~ Strength...P90X! I'd like to be 15lbs lighter..

3. What goals, just aren't working? ~ I don't think anything here. I mean, I'm still working hard with my running, and eating right... it's just hard.

Gag Week 1 Challenge

2010-10-07T14:05:00.012-04:00

So, for week 1 we are supposed to create a Vision Board. I will be honest, I have NEVER done this...in all my years of trying to lose weight. I didn't want to do it either. Well, a part of me did, and a part of me didn't. I didn't really think it would do much good. But you know what. I had fun doing it. I also finally took some before pictures. It's almost a week late...but there can't be that much of a change!!! They aren't pretty...and I'm actually showing my tummy area, which isn't even the most problematic area...that would be my butt!! No, I'm not showing you that. Maybe when it looks better I might show you those before pictures, but yeah uh...not a moment sooner!!!

My VISION BOARD!!! ~ To live healthy, eat right, be happy with ME (especially in a swimsuit! LOL!

"Before" 155.4'ish

GAG Starting Weight

2010-10-01T14:09:00.004-04:00

So I decided to join the GAG challenge again. Last year it seemed to really help me, and this year I want a better outcome!! I should go back and see how much I lost, or where I started ... just for fun!!!

Silly me forgot to take pictures first thing, so by the time I did I had already ate breakfast and drank water. So, the picture is off...that just means my first week should be GREAT right?! LOL!!!

Anyway...hope to get some starting/before pictures...but no promises. My life is crazy these days. I do have some pretty HORRID before pictures that I took a few weeks ago, but I will never share with anyone! LOL!

So here's my GAG Starting Weight Picture!
156.6

I'm HERE!

2010-09-23T15:54:00.003-04:00

I really haven't fallen off the face of the earth. PROMISE. I've just been using Sparkpeople, and it seems easier to blog there. Maybe I should just start copying and pasting here too!!!

Things are actually going ok. I admit to taking my 6'ish month sabbatical. I have gained and lost the same 8lbs in 6 months. I guess I'll take that considering it could be a lot more gaining. The good news is that I am back on track. A light came on...and I'm ready to get my life in order and tackle the rest of this weight...for good!!

I'd also like to note that my husband and I have decided to try and work things out. It's been a long 6 months, LONG 6 months. Lots of crying in there. And I am happy that he wants to do this, and he suggested counseling. So, we are doing it. Who knows how it will all turn out... It will either close the door completely, or open a new one for us. Whatever it brings, I will be ready. The divorce has been put on hold to see where this might lead.

So, that's that!!! Sorry I've been MIA for so long! But I'll try to do better and if I blog at Sparkpeople, I'll just copy it here! That's my plan!!!!

August 2010 Goals!

2010-08-04T13:34:00.003-04:00

It's time...I've abandoned my good ole blog for too long, and I'm back. I want my LIFE BACK... with that means creating time for me. And GOOD time. Not wasteful time. I want to feel good about myself again, and not frumpy and fat. So...I need August goals.

*Side Note* So of you may or may not know my husband left me March 4, 2010. It was the day after our 2 wedding anniversary. Yes he was having an affair...Yes, it CRUSHED me...Yes I lost a piece of myself...Yes I totally went off track...and YES I'm finding myself again. Today even I'm finding myself. A new self...a BETTER self!!! We are still friends, and yes I still have deep feelings towards the end of my marriage. I try to date...but I'll be honest, it's TOUGH. Nothing too serious...that's for certain!!!! "the first cut is the deepest..."

My goals for August are easy peasy, but should help me get back on track!
~ Journal 6 out of 7 days/week
~ Exercise 30 mins 5x/week
~ Drink at least 64oz of h20/day

LHAS Challenge Week 7 Check In

2010-06-23T11:11:00.002-04:00

Time is so wasting away, and my middle isn't. I'm letting my crazyness of my life get in the way of what I truly want and I'm so tired of it. I pledge that this week will be better..to MYSELF!!!!

My life is crazy busy with work and with home life, so I just haven't found time to get in here and put up any blogs. I barely have time to do this one measly weekly one! Forgive me y'all.

So today's weigh in.... 157. A gain of .4 from last week. Blah.

0 minutes of exercise too.

Hmmm...could no exercise + eating like crap = a gain in weigh in? Most definitely Mandie!!! Next week shall be better!

Here are my 4 goals for the challenge.

1. JOURNAL
2. Drink my water on the weekends!
3. NO FAST FOOD
4. Get to my workout classes at the gym!

LHAS Challenge Week 6 Check In

2010-06-16T11:18:00.004-04:00

What a terrible week y'all. Just when I think my life is headed on a straight path, there is a detour. On 2 separate occasions, in less than one week, comments were made about my weight. Granted, they aren't coming from the best of people...but it still hurt nonetheless. You know what follows right? Instead of being mad and working my butt off to show these people, I emotional ate, and ate, and ate. I deserved the gain I received...and I'm mad at myself or letting these pathetic miserable people win...

156.6 +2.2lbs. I also was miserable enough I didn't workout one day. How about them apples?!!!

What have I learned from this experience? Well...what they say or think of me really doesn't matter. Yes, it hurts to hear someone say things about you. Especially when you've worked really hard to make changes. Alright even harder that you have poor self image and then this ADDS to it big time. But you know what...I realize these people are miserable and truthfully just want me to feel miserable too. It worked...for a little bit. But I'm over it. It has to be ME that is happy with myself and my body. And if I'm eating poorly, not working out, I know I will feel miserable...not only that but I will start to look that way too.

So, yeah, today is a new day...another new one. I have a good attitude and I'm giving it my full effort this week. I want to be pleasantly surprised how good it feels...because I know I will feel better if I'm actively TRYING.

LHAS Challenge Week 5 Check In

2010-06-09T09:01:00.003-04:00

So I had to miss Week 4's check in last week. I was tending to a sick child at home, and had no internet access to check in. Another week has already flown by, and it is time to check in AGAIN. These weeks are really going by quick!!!!

I have a nice maintain this week. It's an actual loss, because last week I had a slight gain. So I'll take the little loss/maintain I got this week.

154.4 +/- 0

101 mins exercised total. Not nearly what I need!!!

Side note, I had to cancel with WW. It's not because I wanted to, but because I financially needed to. I have a lot of things going on now that I have to worry about and with the divorce, I just can't afford it. So, that's that for now!!!!

LHAS Challenge Week 3 Check In

2010-05-26T13:57:00.003-04:00

Another week has gone by. Thankfully, this week I've done better. I wouldn't say perfect by any means...but definitely better! That's the key right?!!!

My life is still hectic and crazy, and "dramafied", so you'll have to forgive me for not much of an update, and no updates during the week. It's just so much to handle right now. So, if you are a reader, I appreciate your patience with me :)

So, here's my stats.... lost 2lbs YIPPIE!! Putting me at 154.4. Nice :)

And I upped my activity minutes to 180 Mins! On my way :)

Starting June 1st my plan is to restart P90x. I want to see results. TONING. I need it. It's a killer workout, and intense for 90 days...but I really need something. Another friend is doing it too...so the two of us should be able to tackle this!!!!

LHAS Challenge Week 2 Check In

2010-05-19T10:35:00.003-04:00

Well, week 2 has come and gone. When will my life ever settle so I can get my stuff in gear? Seriously!!! I found myself at lunch instead of going to workout, sitting with my coworkers at the lunch table. This is not a good thing. Yes, the conversation was/is...but I find myself hungry and off track. Not to mention I'm missing the exercise my body needs!! ARGH!!!!

Needless to say, I got a whopping 75 mins of exercise Week 2. Blah! I know, better than nothing, but practically that is nothing. But, I'm over it...and I'm gonna focus on this week now.

I also will report a big fat maintain. Yep...I'm lucky to have that. I ate so many pieces of cake from the boys birthday party on Sunday. I just didn't care. I was so wore and stressed from it, I wanted and loved it! Terrible I know. 156.4

But don't worry, I'm okay. I truly am. I know what I want...and I honestly know what I have to do to get it, and I want this week to reflect that. I have something to do on Saturday that may cause some friction, but if I can get a good workout in in the morning before going out, then I will feel good.

Here's to a better week!!! Hope all my LHAS challengers are doing better than me!!!!

LHAS Challenge Week 1 Check In

2010-05-12T09:56:00.003-04:00

Well, I started off dynamic, and fizzled into nothing. Blah! I hate that. But, it has helped motivate me for making some changes this next week. I have to if I want to get anywhere. I can't be so passive, that's for sure. If I really want this, I have to grab it and DO IT!

My week actually started off great. And then the weekend happened. It was a weekend spent at a kickbutt Pearl Jam concert on Friday which spiraled to me slipping up the rest of the weekend plus.

And then I find myself feeling horrible about it. Horrible about how I look...honestly HORRIBLE about this. My stomach was sour. I was a mess. I'm not feeling MUCH better...but I'll get with it.

So, I had a gain on the good ole work scale this morning. Up to 156.4. Deserved it. Oh, and I have heavier clothes on today too...I know that contributes to SOME of it...but not nearly all. I deserved it like I said. From the partying on Friday night, to the cake I was shoveling in for my sons' b-day, yeah, I deserved it.

I also SUCKED with my workouts/activity last week. I worked out what...2 days. Jeez! Gonna have to step it up a notch!!!

So...that's how week 1 of the LHAS went for me. PHOOEY!

I love the kitchen!

2010-05-06T10:33:00.003-04:00

With yesterday being Cinco De Mayo, and me LOVING Mexican food, I made tacos and Spanish rice. I also stopped at my local restaurant (favorite place ever to eat by the way!) and picked up some chips and salsa (and cheese for the kiddos). Dinner rocked if I do say so myself. Not just the food itself, but the fact that I'm actually cooking again. With the split I literally couldn't even bring myself into the kitchen to do anything. I associated it with being happy and being a family. That was shattered. I didn't have an appetite, and I couldn't focus or concentrate. So the boys and I ate out quite a bit (not fast food, but let's just say the Mexican restaurant recognizes us these days), we ate with friends and family, and the tiny bit I did cook was like grilled cheese. Non-thinkable meals. Yeah, it feels good getting back in the swing of what I love - cooking for me and my boys.

After visiting with my new babysitter, the boys and I read books, said our prayers and kissed goodnight. Finally, MOMMY time!

Let me admit (again) that I have totally been slacking on my "life". Meaning eating right and working out. Don't ask how that happened, it just did. In the time of my life when I needed it...I slipped. I keep reminding myself though that I've picked myself up, brushed off the dirt and am keeping on. So, with the help of the LHAS in the back of my mind I popped in TaeBo. Sweated good for oh 20'ish mins, but that didn't feel like enough, so I then decided to kill myself and put the Shred in. Uh yeah, maybe that wasn't smart?! LOL! But I did it...smiling the whole time. And honestly I pushed myself SO hard! I want my body back...I need control of my life, and this is the ONE thing I can totally control. So, I got in about 45'ish mins of working out! YAY! Today I'm going to the gym to do my favorite group exercise class - Step. I am excited.

Excited for getting my life back...seeing Mandie again has made me smile, and others around me too!!

And the challenge starts!

2010-05-05T10:37:00.008-04:00

* I'd like to note that I didn't notice this at first, but this post marks the 100th post of my blog! WOWOW!! I think that's pretty exciting. Should've given away something? But I didn't...maybe at a later time I'll do something*

HIya! I'm so pumped and ready for this LHAS challenge you all have no clue. Let me first say that I came kicking and screaming. Had it not been for my buddy Heather, I WOULD NOT be doing this. Seriously. So I do give her a HUGE HUG for pushing. And wouldn't you know it, I'm actually excited about doing it. I know that it's going to help me get over the hump.

Yesterday was a turning point for me. I know, Tuesday..isn't that weird. Usually it's like Sunday night, or even Monday morning...but for me...it was a Tuesday. I know my WW meeting had to do with that, as well as actually signing up for this challenge. At WW yesterday my leader said these 3 things.

Desire - Yes, we ALL have the desire to lose the weight and be healthy and yeah, LOOK GOOD
Discipline - Uh...what? This is what I have been totally struggling with...but not anymore!
_________
DELIGHT - I know that by actually having the discipline is going to create this...and I WANT it!!!!

That set the mood right there. I left my meeting feeling empowered and ready!!! And then I signed up for the challenge. Doing so made me take a look at what I've been lacking. Yeah, exercise. And why??? I mean, when I exercise I LOVE how I look and feel. Actually the feeling can not be beat, and when I talk to people about it (non-exercisers) they think I'm nuts. LOL! I know that feeling too. But seriously, the endorphins it creates, and the high I get from feeling muscle is unbeatable.

I then sat down and watched the oh, last half of Biggest Loser last night. I haven't seen it in weeks. I was surprised at how much these contestants had changed. And yeah, I saw them working out and it made me want to!!! I'm actually EXCITED to start again. Weird!!!

It was said on the show "celebrate the small victories". I've not been doing that. Instead I've been looking at the whole picture, and not seeing ANY victories. I'm seeing all these failures. So last night I celebrated NOT eating cookie dough. :) Hey, it's a start people...give me a break! And I admit, I REALLY wanted to. But I kept thinking about the DESIRE + DISCIPLINE = DELIGHT...and how I needed the discipline. And then that created a small victory for me! YAY!!!! I'm officially on my way.

Okay, lots of gibber there...forgive me.....can you tell it's been awhile since the wheels were turning?! LOL!

My goal for the challenge is to get CLOSE to goal, if not there. I know...kinda steep, but I need that discipline. I have 16 weeks...and even at 1lb/week that puts me at 138.6, soooo stinking close to goal (130). So I'm going to try REALLY hard. 16lbs is my goal :)

Today I had to take a picture of me weighing in. I did it at work, since I've banned the scales at home (they are actually at work!). And I went into the Ladies restroom to take a picture. So ya'll ready? I'm not! LOL!

Scale shot - 154.6

And oh Lordy....full body pictures (sorry they are just in my work outfit)

My Long Hot Active Summer Challenge!

2010-05-04T15:37:00.006-04:00

That's right folks, I've come out again to play...and stay. Forgive me again for my absense. Life got crazy, Mandie needed to heal, grow, and move on... and so that brings me to now. I'm doing well, and learning to live life for Mandie again.

ANYWAY, the fun stuff. I'm hoping I can still join in on this challenge I need to...I've slacked with exercise for about 3 weeks now. And honestly, if you all are exercisers...you KNOW what 3 weeks of no activity does to your body! WOW! I can't believe how flabby I've gotten. It's nasty!!! So, I need this challenge. If it's too late to join, I'll still play along.

Here's my goal.

1) Workout 5 days/week (gosh, this is scary to even say again!!)
2) A total of 5,000 minutes. GULP!!

Yes, saying those 2 things really do scare me. BUT, I really need the kick in the butt for me to get back on track!!!! I'm also hoping this helps get my weightloss rolling the way it should be, and would rock if it would help me get to goal! Or at least feel better about the way my body looks!!!

So, there ya go! I'll be back tomorrow with pictures and what not! And I hope to be on here more faithfully. If I go MIA...someone please come after me!!! ;)

Oh, and today was weigh in, and I lost 1.7lbs this week, and I'm at 156.8. Nice number...but I'm tired of teeter-tottering! Moving forward!

Weekly goals:

1) TRACK
2) Not go in the red
3) Exercise 3 days (more??)

Weekly Weigh in

2010-03-24T13:09:00.003-04:00

Well, this past week my appetite came back. I'm not for certain that is a good thing! Haha! No, seriously, I know it's a good thing, but I went crazy with food. Let's just say that cookie dough and batter are my DOWNFALLS. Well, I had ordered cookie dough from my nephew, and it came in this week. Guess who was found eating it by the spoonful. GULP! Yes...me my friends! It came to work with me this morning, and is now going home with a coworker! NO MORE COOKIE DOUGH! I've been struggling on deciding what to cook for dinner, since it's just the 3 of us now (my husband has left in case you didn't know). We've ate lots of sandwiches and grilled cheese with soup...but I don't think the boys are going to want that forever. LOL. I'm going to start working on an April menu with new recipes and food...to get my love of the kitchen back. It's tough, but it's the only way I'll make it. Otherwise I'll continue to struggle with food and my weight.

So okay, weigh in wasn't that great. But we must remember I've had some serious weight loss the past few weeks with my family/life crisis, so honestly it should be expected. Let's also note I didn't journal and didn't workout once last week. So the TWO (2) pound gain was deserved this week on every level.

My weigh in at Weight Watchers on Tuesday was 158. Still a decent number :)

I haven't done these for awhile, and it's time I should...

What I want to accomplish this week:

Track every single day!
Exercise 5 days
Get some work off my desk!
Daily vitamin
Go to church
Read 3 days (Bible)
Wear pedometer

Weekly Weigh In

2010-03-17T13:36:00.002-04:00

Forgive me people... it's been too long. My life has been a rollercoaster the past month, and I'm still trying to find me.

In the process of my marriage crumbling I have lost my appetite. Yeah, I'm the opposite of most people and don't eat for comfort. This has been good for the weightloss, but it's unrealistic and dangerous. Slowly but surely my appetite IS coming back, so I'm on the path to getting back on track the RIGHT way.

I did some shopping this weekend with the girls, and that was fantastic. I got LOTS of new stuff, for dirt dirt cheap!!! It was nice to be back in the "lower" size, but now the goal is to break thru and go down even further.

I haven't worked out in over a week...with just so much going on and places to go...well I've given every excuse in the book. Possibly tonight I'll do some kickboxing, but my big guy and I are starting to feel under the weather, so no promises.

I did reach my 10% at WW on Tuesday, and I'm down to 156. I lost 1.4lbs this past week... but please remember the circumstances.

If you're the praying type...I could use them, as well as my family.

Weekly Weigh In

2010-03-02T15:08:00.004-05:00

Again, I don't have much else to say except updating on my weightloss. I did have a fantastic girls night out this past Saturday, and drank way too much (thank goodness for weekly points and activity points I'd saved!)...I'm certain that hurt my weigh in this morning.

At WW I weighed 160.8lbs ... a 0.4lb loss! Yay...a loss. I could have very easily gained from my girls night out, that's for sure!!!

Another cool thing, I'm finally out of the obese category! I'm just OVERWEIGHT! WOOHOO!

Sorry I don't have more to say right now...things are still up in the air. It hurts...but I am strong, and at least I have my exercise and my commitment to lose this weight!!!

Life

2010-02-26T09:43:00.002-05:00

So my life has kept me away from my blog lately. Much is going on, and it's not all that great. I am still losing weight, and still on that path, but I need to put all my energies into something more important, my marriage.

With that being said, I will still plan to update weekly, but I can't promise anymore than that right now.

I am happy to report a 5lb (161.2) loss at WW on Tuesday, and my exercise is ROCKING. I am hoping for another fantastic loss come Tuesday....but doubt it'll be 5lbs. I'm a 6.2lbs shy from my lowest adult weight, and I feel VERY happy about that!!

Just thought I'd let you all know what is going on, and not to worry. I admit I haven't been reading either...so I hope everyone is doing fantatsic! And...don't count me down for the count...just on "sabbatical" as my girlfriend calls it!!!

Weekly Weigh In

2010-02-16T15:00:00.003-05:00

Again I found myself busy this past week and unable to post and read as much as I would have liked. But I'm still alive (though snow covered!) and still kicking. I also want to brag that I really had an awesome week, and fortunately the scale at WW showed it! WOOHOO!

Today I weighed in at 166.2! That's a 2.2lb loss! Now remember 2 weeks ago I lost zero, and then last week I didn't weigh in at WW due to snow (though when weighed on my scale I had gained). So I'm super happy with the loss!! And I'm CLOSE (1lb) to hitting my 5%! I'm aiming for that next week!!!

The weekend was nice. I totally stayed on track, journaled, exercised on Sunday and drank all my water, so my weekend was a success. Plus the Hunney and I got to spend time together, without the kiddos...which was SUPER!!! He gave me the cutest card ever, and made me smile. He's got a great sense of humor...so I always love his cards, and especially the lovey things he writes. I don't get that often, so I cherish them!!!

Anyway...I'm running low on time...but needed to update!

What I accomplished last week:

Track every single day! - YES!
Exercise 5 days - YES... 6 days actually!
Finish my weekly tasks for work - as usual, still working on
Daily vitamin - YES!
Be prepared for the Hunney's birthday on Wed. Decide what I want more - cake or salsa/chips and only have ONE. - Well, I had some chips and salsa...and still had 1 cupcake, but made it special with 1 tab of icing!
Read 1 day - No
Stairs at work 3 times ONE day - No
Blog 3 times - No, I think I only got 2 days... argh!

What I want to accomplish this week:

Track every single day!
Exercise 5 days
Get 4 folders off my desk
Daily vitamin
Read 1 day
Stairs at work 3 times ONE day
10,000 steps 3 days

My eTools Journal :)

Weekend warrior!

2010-02-12T15:05:00.002-05:00

It's weekend time my friends, and I have my armor on to successfully survive. Yes, I know Valentines Day is stuck in there...and if my Hunney gets me the same thing (or similar) to what he did 2 years ago (2 weeks before we left for Vegas to get married), I'm going to go POSTAL on him. What did he get me you ask? Oh a LOVELY cookie bouquet! Yes...it was sooo cute and VERY sweet...but please, thats seriously sabatoge!

Anway, for V-day I'm not sure what we're doing yet, but the Hunney mentioned possibly going gambling. Sounds okay...not exactly the most romantic thing in the world, but at least it would be something we both enjoy doing (him especially). My Hunney can be kind of tight...so I'm quite certain we won't be going out for dinner. That means I get make us something special - and still on plan! Yay :)

I have worked out all week (well, except Monday), and even on Tuesday and Thursday I went to Zumba classes (SO FUN!) . I've been on track with my eating, so I'm feeling like myself again. Whew!

My plan this weekend is to journal every day, =workout at least once, and guzzle all my water! 3 simple things to help me stay successful, right?!!!

Happy Valentine's everyone!

Guess Who?!

2010-02-09T14:53:00.002-05:00

Yep...I've totally been MIA! Can you believe it? I have no excuse, NONE. I thought I was doing really good too...totally was on track and then the inevitable happened - you know, life! I won't go into details, but it's female stuff, emotions = comfort eating.

With that being said, back to the old me...TODAY. I know you probably get tired of hearing this, but hey...I'll say it as many times as I have to. I MUST conquer this, get over that hurdle, cross the FINISH LINE!

Didn't make it to Weight Watchers today due to snow and being lazy. It's probably a good thing considering I'm certain I gained. Oh and last week I got an undeserved maintain. Okay...I know a maintain is better than a gain, but damn...I get tired of working my butt off and for NOTHING. So that was discouraging and started that snowball effect. But...today is new, the week is new...and I'm ready (yes this is positive self talk).

Here are my weekly goals :)

What I want to accomplish this week:

Track every single day!
Exercise 5 days
Finish my weekly tasks for work
Daily vitamin
Be prepared for the Hunney's birthday on Wed. Decide what I want more - cake or salsa/chips and only have ONE.
Read 1 day
Stairs at work 3 times ONE day
Blog 3 times

Weekly Weigh In

2010-01-26T13:04:00.003-05:00

Yes, another week has gone by and I haven't updated. Argh! I don't know what my problem is. I promise, it's NOT that I'm hiding because I'm not OP. I'm completely OP and feel really good about it, so that's good. But, why I'm MIA here...well I don't know?!! I am busy with things, but still...I should make time for this. And I think I'll make that a weekly goal for this week!

So let's backtrack. This past week I have been FOCUSED. I've been really really trying, using all sorts of advice and digging deep within me to get the strength to do this journey. I've been busy in the evenings working on couponing (a new love of mine ... all in hopes to keep me busy instead of eating). And guess what...this has ALL WORKED! Yes, I am on a roll folks, and I feel really good about it.

Okay, okay...ya'll want to know the results of my weigh in right? Well this was week 4 (does week 1 count, since that's a starting weight?? I get confused with that) since I've rejoined WW...and if you remember, last week I had a zero loss. I was disappointed, BUT instead of being upset about it and gorge...it helped me stick to it. I also want to say that this was the first week I used eTools for everything. Using a "new program" I think really helped with my tracking. Oh yeah...my weigh in.....

I lost 3.4lbs this week!

You can see me smiling ... right?! Super stoked gal here! PLUS I earned my first 5lb star! Yippie! I've lost a total of 5.8lbs since starting! I'm very happy.

I also had a total NSV on Saturday. The Hunney stopped at Rally's for a bite to eat. I had already ate my dinner (Subway), but 5 hours previously (he's weird and never hungry at the appropriate times!). Let's just say that Rally's in the past has been one of my favorites, because I RARELY eat there (uh...more than 2 years ago I'd say). I so wanted something...but told myself I could wait to eat something when I got home in 30 mins, and that it really wasn't worth it...I have worked TOO hard this week. When Hunney bit into one of his burgers and there were onions and pickles on it (a HUGE no no!). So I had to get them off for him (he was driving). When I reached into the bag to get the other burger and fix it for him, there were 3 bag fries in there (I'm sure you all know what I'm talking about). I said, "well I'll eat these 3 fries". I ate one fry and about puked (sorry). It was GROSS! I can't even describe the taste in my mouth...but it was horrid. A cross between grease and dirt??? I dunno, it was just so gross I couldn't eat the other 2. The Hunney said he was SO proud of me!!! And really, I was proud of myself. My body just doesn't like that food anymore I guess! Yay!!!

At the WW meeting this morning the focus was on "are we really hungry?" And I can clearly say that a few weeks ago, I THOUGHT I was hungry 95% of my awake hours. After today's meeting (and I have lots more reading to do), I don't think so. I think it's just a habit thing for me, and possibly boredom. I have never once really admitted that. I've always said "Oh I'm ALWAYS hungry". And it was frustrating to me that someone would say "I have to MAKE myself eat, because I'm never hungry". It's clear time to learn the difference here...and I'm about to do it. I'm hoping I can reflect on some of what I learn from this with you all, because I seriously need to figure this part out.

What I accomplished last week:

Track every single day! - YES! (and I'm going to share a screenshot of my eTools for the week!)
Start back up on JM Shred (Day 15) - No...I just am out of focus with it...argh!
Get 4 folders off my desk! - No
Daily vitamin - Yes
Decide on the class I'm considering taking - I decided NOT to take the course...not for me right now
Read 1 day - Yes, I finished my Ali Vincent book!
Stairs at work 3 times ONE day - Uh...No...I didn't even do it ONE DAY! Geez!

What I want to accomplish this week:

Track every single day!
Exercise 5 days
Finish my weekly tasks for work (or at least get a huge dent in it)
Daily vitamin
Menu plan for February, using what I have in the pantry
Read 1 day
Stairs at work 3 times ONE day
Blog 3 times

Here's my first week of using eTools (I think if you click it will make it larger)

Weekend Recap, Weekly Weigh In

2010-01-20T14:53:00.002-05:00

HIya! Yes...I'm still around. Just uh...lazy....I guess is the word. Well, Monday was a holiday and I was at home kicking it with my kiddos - okay and a little shopping, and then yesterday I was so upset by my weigh in at WW's that I just couldn't do anything.

So, if ya'll wanna know, I lost a big fat ZERO at weigh in yesterday. Yes, I was disappointed, but I'm over it. I honestly felt like I did good last week, so it was quite a shock. But looking over my tracker again, I did fudge here and there (the Saturday buffet), and I used my AP's and WP's...so I like I said, I'm over it. This week is going to be a different story though, you can betcha!!

The weekend was nice. I went to spin class on Saturday morning. That was awesome. Then I did some shopping afterwards. My Big Boy had gone to his Dad's for the weekend, so it was just the Little Guy at home with the Hunney. That evening the Little Guy went to Mamaw and Papaw's so the Hunney and I could go to the racer's banquet (fyi the Hunney drag races - and does REALLY good). That was fun, and yes, I ate too much. Then afterwards we went to the casino to watch the Colts play, and play some slots. Good time...but we didn't hit the jackpot. Sunday we slept in and then I had to do a bit of grocery shopping (produce). Nothing really much more than that!

My Weekend Plans were

Track every day - Yep!
Guzzle 80oz h20/day - Sure did!
Spin class on Saturday - YES!
Eat RIGHT at the Ponderosa, and enjoy the banquet - Pretty good
Shred at least once - No :(
Work on recipe binder - YES!!

Now onto the weekly goals!

What I accomplished last week:

Track every single day! - YES!
Continue with the JM 30 day shred! - NO
Get 4 folders off my desk! - YES!!!!
Daily vitamin - YES!!!
Work on my new recipe binder Mom bought me for Christmas - YES!!!
Read 1 day - YES! Read my WW material!
Stairs at work 3x/day 3x/week - Nope

What I want to accomplish this week:

Track every single day!
Start back up on JM Shred (Day 15)
Get 4 folders off my desk!
Daily vitamin
Decide on the class I'm considering taking
Read 1 day
Stairs at work 3 times ONE day

Weekend Plans

2010-01-15T14:43:00.003-05:00

Just so you all know, I'm NOT avoiding my blog. For once! I'm actually totally on track and rocking...but busy and haven't had much time to read my daily favorites, let alone blog about anything. So...forgive me. But hopefully next week I'll have some more time on my hands and can post daily, maybe even a few recipes with pictures and such!

In the meantime, just wanted to throw out a huge thank you for all the comments on me being obsessed earlier in the week. I believe I'm okay...and she has issues. And honestly, it's ONE of the reasons our bff stats have been diminishing. I can't say it didn't hurt though...the things she says definitely stabbed me... but I'm a big girl and really...I'm over it!

Okay so it's the weekend, and I'm totally not nervous about it. Well...okay, MAYBE slightly because the Hunney's annual racers banquet is Saturday at ...gulp...the Ponderosa! There it is...the word of evil for us trying to get healthy and lose weight...shall I really say it???? B-U-F-F-E-T. Anyway, I'll try my butt off and REALLY make smart choices...I can do this!

Here's my

Weekend Plans

Track every day
Guzzle 80oz h20/day
Spin class on Saturday
Eat RIGHT at the Ponderosa, and enjoy the banquet
Shred at least once (I've been slacking on this because of the earlier workouts in the day)
Work on recipe binder

Weigh In...and am I obsessed?

2010-01-12T15:24:00.003-05:00

Today is weigh day as ya'll know. And since I'm weighing in at work (for a biggest loser type of game), and at Weight Watchers I've decided NOT to weigh in at home. Can you imagine the pain that was? I've actually just left my scale at work so I won't even be tempted! I will be using my official weigh ins through the Weight Watchers scale. That way I have to keep going.

So, after my first full week of being back on the program (paying for it anyway), and doing the Shred, as well as a spin class, I lost............................

2.4lbs! Yippie! Super happy about that! I expected to see a good number since I HAVE been working my but off...and as we see, it pays!

Now yesterday I wanted to talk to you all about something. I'm not sure how to word this, so forgive me when it gets all jumbled and stuff.

I have a friend that is about 80lbs overweight. She's one of my besties. She has seen me at my highest, and at my lowest. She believes I am obsessed with my weight and comments about it ALL the time. It kind of hurts my feelings, because honestly I don't think I'm "obsessed". Yeah, I may talk about it all the time with her, but that's because I want to share my success with her and get her on the bandwagon with me...plus she my bestie, and I NEED her support. Losing weight as we all know, is TOUGH work!!!

Anyway, she informs me a few weeks ago that her Dr is referring her to have the lap band procedure as a medical necessity. She's not 100lbs overweight, so they wouldn't even look at her until her other Dr put it as that. So, now she gets to go have it done. Nice!

I was talking to her yesterday about it (wish I could find the chat) and she's all excited, and honestly I'm excited for her too. Well, up came the part of my obsession. She has to chime in that my obsession is probably why I rollercoaster with my weight - according to her material the office gave her to read up on. I was silent....I didn't know what to say. Made me question, am I REALLY that obsessed? Could this be why I DO rollercoaster? And when I say rollercoaster, I want to say that when I got to my lowest (155) I ate healthy and exercised. When stress hits we all know what way we go... but is that OBSESSION? And then it hurt my feelings that SHE would/could say anything to me about it. The anger then starts to boil. I am the one for the past 4'ish years have been kicking my own butt with eating right (thank you Weight Watchers - which equals no serious low calorie/dangerous plan) and exercising. And I do mean exercising 5-6 days/week because I LOVE it. But not crazy amounts of time in the gym or working out...just 60'ish minutes! I don't purge, I don't take meds or weightloss pills, I am HEALTHY. So what is so obsessive?

Okay...stop...do you see the anger now???? Here's a person who will sit there and say "oh but I eat healthy, and very little...I don't understand WHY I can't lose weight".... but then is still 80lbs overweight....and has the nerve to say that it's no wonder I rollercoaster! UGH! I'm still so upset from it.

Again, I didn't know what to say...and kind of just went numb. Do any of you have friends like this? I mean...she's my best friend...then why do some things she say and do HURT SO BAD?????

Moving on....I have my own cheerleaders. The Hunney and the kiddos. They support me 100%, and that matters. I'm doing this for ME, to get me healthy. And I keep on trying.

Well, it's time for the fun...

What I accomplished last week:

Track every single day - a big fat YES!!!!
Continue with the JM 30 day shred - All but 1 rest day I gave myself!
Get 4 folders off my desk - Nope...close though.
Daily vitamin - Yes!
Get my herb garden going - Yes!
Work on my new recipe binder Mom bought me for Christmas - No...overwhelmed by it
Read 1 day - Yes...Ali Vincent book and my WW Material

What I want to accomplish this week:

Track every single day!
Continue with the JM 30 day shred!
Get 4 folders off my desk!
Daily vitamin
Work on my new recipe binder Mom bought me for Christmas
Read 1 day
Stairs at work 3x/day 3x/week

Weekend Recap

2010-01-11T15:29:00.002-05:00

I am sorry, but I only have a moment to post today. I really have a LOT I want to say...about my obsession (or not) with weightloss...so hopefully tomorrow I have time, because I'd LOVE all your input.

But, today has to be a shortie...just an update on the weekend. I will say that I'm anxious for tomorrow's first week's weigh in! I have been REALLY on track this week and working out...so it SHOULD be a good scale tomorrow. Fingers are crossed!!!

My plans were:

Continue tracking
Drink 80+ oz h20/day
Shred
Take the boys to the library /nature center since it's too cold outside to hike
Clean bathroom and organize the kiddos dressers (update sizes...AGAIN)
Get herb garden started
Read

Here is my outcome:

I tracked everything, every day!
Yeppers, sure did thanks to my new water bottle my Momma got me for Christmas!
I Shredded Friday and Saturday, but yesterday I took a much needed rest.
Did not get the boys to the Nature Center of the Library...time slipped away TOO fast! Sorry boys!
I did get the master bathroom cleaned, but couldn't bring myself to do the dressers!
Herb garden is officially started and I'm anxious to see germination!!!
Read some of my Ali Vincent book as well as all of my WW material!!!

Hope ya'll had a WONDERFUL weekend...I sure did :)

Snow Day and it's the weekend!!

2010-01-08T21:03:00.006-05:00

Due to the several inches of snow dumped on us we had a snow day. This means...Mandie at home...all day...out of her routine (can you see the nail biting?). I was nervous for a SPLIT second, then I decided I would just keep myself busy. Hmmm...what could I do? The wheels were a turning in my head. I would clean our bedroom, a bathroom, as well as sweep and mop the kitchen. I had a plan!

Once I got busy, the wheels were flying. I remembered I had a carcass in the freezer, so I found a recipe to make my own stock. While that was cooking I found another recipe from here to make chicken noodle soup! Suddenly I felt in control!!

Lunch was some leftover ravioli lasagna (the whole family LOVED), and then the little one needed a nap. I promised my kiddos that we'd go out to play in the 6 inches of snow when he got up from his nap. I went back to my cleaning.

When the little guy got up, my big boy was READY!! The funny part...it took us 30 mins to bundle up in layers to go out and play for 45 mins. But it was precious time spent together...and we were active and out of the house!!!!

The soup was a HUGE hit for dinner, and I definitely will make it again. Even the picky Hunney LOVED it!! You can see the super huge smile on my face right? I'd like to note that I am doing a pantry challenge, silently. I didn't want to feel like a out of place or whatever compared to the others doing it...even though I know it's just a personal thing... is that self-doubt I'm hearing here? ANYWAY...I'm doing awesome on the pantry challenge.

When the kiddos were in bed, Momma made time to do her Shred!!! Level 2 is STILL kicking my butt. But I love Jillian and this workout. But whoa...is it tough! I'm seriously dreading level 3!

So, I'm proud to announce the day was a complete success...and it makes me confident that the weekend will be OK! I can do this!!!

Weekend Plan

Continue tracking
Drink 80+ oz h20/day
Shred
Take the boys to the library /nature center since it's too cold outside to hike
Clean bathroom and organize the kiddos dressers (update sizes...AGAIN)
Get herb garden started
Read

Weekly Goals (will I ever get more creative with the titles?)

2010-01-06T13:56:00.004-05:00

Today I did something I haven't done in nearly 2 years.... I went to spin class! Yay me! Well I made it...and survived. At the LAST minute I almost backed out and didn't go...coming up with every excuse in the book (coworker didn't want to go, it's COLD outside, it was snowing, etc etc). BUT, I went and got dressed and just did it. When I got there, I was early...wanted to be...because you have to set up your bike to fit your needs, and I couldn't remember exactly where it was comfy for me. The class was locked and NO ONE was there. I thought... oh great, the class has been moved or worse...canceled. Then slowly everyone started showing up. If you've never been to a spin class...let me just say these people are die-hards! They go right to their business...usually without talking or smiling. I thought to myself "what have I got myself into!". I felt out of place for a brief moment, then remembered why I was there...for ME! Got my bike all set up and the music started. Fortunately (and I say this "lightly) it was HOT in the room, so the instructor couldn't work us to death! But I'll just say it was TOUGHER than TOUGH...and I again, LOVED every minute of it!!!!! I can't wait to hit up another one! They don't offer the classes at the most "convenient" times for me, so typically I can only go on a Saturday morning. But lately my Saturday's have been taking care of the kids as Hunney has been doing another job. So, we'll see when I get to do another one.

Tonight I'll keep up with my commitment to the 30 Day Shred. I think I'm on day 9, and yesterday was the first day I did it on level 2. I STILL can not believe how much harder level 2 was than level 1. YEOWCH! But, I love the workout. I like that it splits it up into 3 sets. That makes it seem like there is an end to come! Okay, call me silly if ya want.

I told ya'll I rejoined WW's on Tuesday...and we discussed Tracking and the importance of it. It's funny that this was what the topic was, because just the week before I started tracking again. For me, it really makes the world of difference. When I don't track, I'm off...and WAY off. They gave the statistic that when you don't track, you're 500 - 1000 calories higher than what you think. I totally believe that. And as a side note, I've figured out that I tend to NOT track, when I'm going off track. That made last week kind of hard. With New Year's thrown in there, the Hunney and I went out to dinner at the Olive Garden (we very rarely go out to eat). I had a plan, ordering off the kids menu, and choosing healthy foods. That went out the window as soon as we got there. I mean I made BETTER choices, but not exactly the best. Anyway...back to the point here...I did NOT want to track, but I made myself. Sure, I was OVER in my points...and honestly most days, and even over my flex points....BUT...I tracked. That was a big thing for me. Tracking is SUPER important for me to succeed, and I know this. So, as usual, it will be a goal for me this week...and every week after!

Moving on to the fun part!

What I accomplished last week:
I hadn't sent any goals for myself...but I DID

Tracked every single day - even though I wasn't perfect and didn't want to track!
Exercised 6 days (2 times on one day!)
Got the Christmas decorations down
Planned the monthly menu

What I want to accomplish this week:

Track every single day!
Continue with the JM 30 day shred!
Get 4 folders off my desk!
Daily vitamin
Get my herb garden going that the Hunney bought me last year at Christmas
Work on my new recipe binder Mom bought me for Christmas
Read 1 day

Weigh in at WW Week 1

2010-01-05T16:32:00.002-05:00

Well, Week 1 at my Weight Watcher's meeting was loads of fun. I'm remembering things I somehow have forgotten in past. It was great to go...and I'm excited!

I've run out of time today...but will post my goals for the week tomorrow.

In the meantime...

Official Starting Weight at Weight Watchers - 174.2

Monday, Goals, Weight Watchers, etc

2010-01-04T15:12:00.002-05:00

Today I did something I hadn't planned on doing, but I feel good about it. I rejoined Weight Watchers (actually going to meetings). I haven't been to a meeting in over 5 years, but have been using the system (which works best for me). So, I dished out the moolah, and hope that attending the meetings will help me like AA meetings help alcoholics. My first meeting will be tomorrow at 9am, wish me luck.

I have been officially back on track for 7 days! That feels good. Yeah, even survived a "holiday" as well as a weekend, and let's not forget 4 days at home without structure. You know what else I've done? I've been exercising at home! Can you believe it? I've committed myself to the Jillian Michael's 30 day Shred the Hunney got me for Christmas (I asked for it). On New Year's Day I actually skipped a workout, so yesterday I went ahead and did a morning workout, and then an evening one to get caught back up! Yay me!!! So, I hope that my hard efforts will pay off on the scale tomorrow (though I'm certain at WW's it will be different than at home - naked!).

I also created some 2010 Goals. I do weekly, monthly and weight-related goals...so yes I even do yearly goals! They help me stay on track with my life and the way I want it to go. No, not necessarily resolutions, but GOALS people! Here they are!

1) Get to GOAL
2) Commit to exercise (5 days/week)
3) Start training for a 1/2 marathon
4) Complete 2 5k's
5) Monthly menu plan
6) Read 12 books
7) Take measurements and pictures once/month
8) Do the stairs at work 3x/day x 3x/week
9) Get a new camera and take more pictures
10) Get into those shorts I've been trying to for years - and get out of them because they are too big!
11) Get my hair cut/done 4x
12) Track our dinner eating out
13) Write my G-ma a letter at least every 3 months
14) Take the boys to the State Park at least once/month, take pics and blog about it!
15) Track our Flex Spending/Insurance

There ya have it!! Haven't committed to any challenges yet, because I've been holding out for the GAG to come up with a new one. So...hopefully tomorrow I'll be adding a new challenge!

Weekly Weigh In and how did that happen?

2009-12-29T15:41:00.005-05:00

In 2 weeks I have gained 9.2lbs. (Today's weigh in was 174.8) No exaggeration...I literally have gained nearly10lbs. Talk about disappointment. I have no excuse except laziness and gluttony. Okay, maybe some stress from the holidays somewhere in there, but come on Mandie...get a GRIP! What's bad is that I thought I did have a grip. I had a plan. I was ready. So what happened? I can give you no clear reason, and that is what worries me the most.

Anyone can lose weight. I've done it several times. But it takes learning what makes us fat (besides eating crap) and how we got there...and then CHANGING it. I suppose that is what brings me back to here. Gaining nearly 10lbs - again.

Let's rewind and see what happened, shall we?

The holiday's approached. At work we have one special event after another. Lunches here and there...which meant I had to miss workouts. And we all know that after you miss a workout or two, it's easier to say "nah, I can't go workout today, I've got such_and_such to do". Well, let's add the last minute shopping into that. So yeah, it was super easy to miss my lunch workouts to go shopping instead. Back to shopping,...stress that goes along with finding the PERFECT gift for so_and_so.

For my Big Boy's school party we decided to make cookies. I originally planned NO GOODIES were to be baked/made. Because honestly, WHY should they be? (I admit I'm a batter eater, and I knew it would only start trouble). That is clearly what happened. After 1 batch of cookies, Mommy decides to dip pretzels (LOTS of them) in chocolate and give away to neighbors, and for us to take to work, this also meant I got to nibble one right after another. Oh, more cookies! Yes, we need MORE cookies! The cut out kind, and what about everyone's favorite - chocolate chip?!! YES!!

It was decided Christmas Eve dinner would be at our house with my Brother-in-law and family. That meant I was cooking for 10 people. I wanted enough food, desserts and drinks. I got the bright idea to make cherry almond coffeecake (OH MY!) oh, and what about this new recipe I found for....gulp....FRENCH SILK PIE (now this is my ultimate favorite dessert).

I literally can go on and on with the food I indulged in, and why...but we all know it was because I got lazy. And as a friend pointed out (through herself) , I'm most certainly a "food addict". I literally stopped caring for a few days (weeks). I wanted to eat all my favorites...and not exercise. There was too much going on, and it's a feel good time of year, and I know food makes me FEEL GOOD. I'm a FOOD ADDICT!

Unfortunately now I'm paying the price. I'm disappointed, but determined. Can that be said in the same sentence? Today I am journaling, I even did the 30 day Shred (the Hunney got me it and 2 others for Christmas!) at lunch. I have a plan for dinner, and I'm ready to be on track again. I'm considering on rejoining WW, as it's free registration right now, and really $10/week isn't TOO bad. So...we'll see.

So, now...I'm working on new goals for the new year (not resolutions, just goals), and considering doing a pantry challenge. I also want to start focusing on more couponing and just how those gals get their pantry's so stockpiled! I need to start cutting more corners with groceries! SERIOUSLY!

Anyway...that's all for now. This is my letting it all out post...you know, another confessional. Let's just hope it's the last.

GAG Final Weigh In, plus weekly goals

2009-12-22T11:05:00.004-05:00

It's still hard to believe that 16 weeks have come and gone. Wow! I will admit I'm slightly (okay, greatly) disappointed in my loss for the whole challenge. It would have been better had last week not stuck me in the butt (work treat week!)...but, I'll be happy that I at least finished the challenge with a loss.

Don't mind my toenails, they totally need done!

This weigh in was 169.8. VERY close to 170 (a number I HATE). That is a terrible gain of 4.2lbs from last week (thank you chocolate covered pretzels I made this weekend!). But I finish the challenge at 7.8lbs gone. Better than zero, or a gain. Bleh.

Sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo....where do I go from here? I'll admit, I'm VERY nervous about setting any goals for this week...and honestly, because I don't want to fail. I also hate using that "it's the holidays" excuse...but quite frankly, it is. So...after much thought, here are my goals.

What I accomplished last week:

Journal and BE a good WW (7 full days) - Not even one day
Exercise 5 days - Nope...again, not even one day
Get 4 folders off my desk! - uh...does 1 count?!
Get to bed by 11pm - not every night, but MUCH better!
Daily vitamin - YES!!
Take the stairs in my office building 3x/day for 3 days - uh...no didn't happen
Make it through treat week without a gain! - Ha! Gained 4.2lbs!

What I want to accomplish this week:

Journal and BE a good WW 4 days
Exercise 2 days
Get 4 folders off my desk!
Daily vitamin
Enjoy Christmas with my family

GAG Challenge essay (Pt 3)

2009-12-22T10:36:00.003-05:00

When I started the GAG Challenge, 16 weeks ago, I needed a fuel in my fire. I needed that jumpstart, you know, something to hold you accountable? I set a goal, and really wanted to get there. Unfortunately I didn't reach that goal...BUT, I'm not mad about it. I know that had I not started the challenge I wouldn't even be where I am today.

The GAG helped me stay on track. I knew I had to come in and report my weigh in every week, work on weekly challenges, and offer support o my fellow Gag'ers. That's right, you all helped me stay on track! Thank you! I have met new friends which equals new support that I need on my journey.

In 16 weeks I have learned more about me, and what makes this journey so difficult, and how I can accomplish what I set out to do. It's ME. I need to stop and "smell the roses" and make this commitment for me. The best thing is that I have never given up. It would have been very easy to just drop out of the challenge when the going got tough (or on weightloss in general)...but I didn't. I USED it, and moved forward, and I am learning as I'm going. I still believe the key in this journey is to live and learn, and that's exactly what I have been doing.

I would be very interested in another challenge, and honestly hope another starts soon. Now is a great time to get my focus back on (holidays seem to always de-rail me, and I HATE that), and finish this "race".

Thank you GAG!

Bleh! I can never think of a catchy title!

2009-12-21T14:07:00.004-05:00

HI, I'm Mandie...and I'm an avoider. Yes, that's right...I've avoided my little blog here for oh, about a week, not to mention my food journal...and I might as well admit the exercise too. The LAST WEEK of the GAG Challenge, and I fall HARD off the wagon. Bleh!

I am finding my way back on though...so bear with me. I will post my weigh-in tomorrow as well as the final part (the essay!) for the GAG...and will go from there. That's all I can do...right!!

Weekly Weigh In

2009-12-15T10:30:00.003-05:00

Today is the day... the day I dreaded to get on that scale. If you remember, one short week ago I was EXCITED to get on the scale. And then today...after a weekend of eating like crapola. It's truly amazing how ONE WEEKEND can ruin a GREAT week... argh!

I weighed in this morning at 165.6. I lost exactly 1lb. Amazingly...I LOST! So, I'm happy about that. But disappointed that it could have, and SHOULD have been more...had I did better on the weekend.

Yesterday I was totally back on track, and it always feels good. What sucks is that this is a treat week at work. Today we will go to a "fancy" restaurant (buffet/gourmet). It's supposed to be a "free day" for me, but after this weekend I truly don't deserve it. I'll try my hardest, and I'm vowing to stay AWAY from the desserts. I don't need them... Oh, and since we are being treated to lunch, that means I miss bootcamp workout! PHOOEY! I have to workout at home...I've got to MAKE myself workout at home!!!! Tomorrow the staff (me) provide a "special tea" to the faculty. I'm going to NOT eat anything at the tea. It's at 3:30pm, and that's just a few hours away from dinner. SO...my goal is to NOT eat anything! On Thursday then is our staff gift exchange, and we each bring in a food. I have signed up to bring a Subway platter! Go me! That way I can stay on track! hehee! Sneaky eh?!!! So, if I can survive this week, I'll feel A LOT better, since the GAG challenge last weigh in is NEXT Tuesday! Can you believe that? I still can't!! WOWOWOW!!!

What I accomplished last week:

Journal and BE a good WW (especially on the weekend!) - Did NOT happen!!!!
Exercise 5 days - YES!
Get desk clean - Didn't make much progress
Get material for 2 more purses and get at least 1 purse finished (sewing) - got material, but no purses done.
Daily vitamin - YES!!
Take the stairs in my office building 3x/day for 5 days!!! - Not even ONE day!

What I want to accomplish this week:

Journal and BE a good WW (7 full days)
Exercise 5 days
Get 4 folders off my desk!
Get to bed by 11pm
Daily vitamin
Take the stairs in my office building 3x/day for 3 days!!!
Make it through treat week without a gain!

Confessions of a stressed-out woman!

2009-12-14T16:30:00.002-05:00

You all know what Christmas does to us right...STRESSES us out! And why?? Why do we insist on trying to do sooo much?! Worrying about gifts for so-and-so.... it's just ridiculous. But, I do it to myself.

My weekend was good...but busy = stressful for me, and I ate poorly. I started off good, and then had pictures at Sears at noon (remember with 5 boys!). My Little Guy was a terror, and actually there are some pictures of him with his PINK paci (yeah, we're down to pink and purple,...and then we're DONE). They totally pissed me off (I WILL NEVER GO BACK), and then I was so frustrated at that point I told everyone let's go eat in the food court. I ordered chick-fil-a (a grilled chicken salad)...but after I carried it back to the table it was fried. Wonderful. Oh well...I still ate it (bad choice #1 ended up being 11pts!). I then had a few bites of Tucker's breadsticks and cheese. (bad choice #2). We then headed to get the Christmas tree, and spent the afternoon decorating it. That was fun, as the Big Boy REALLY got into it. Dinner birthday party for my Dad at their house later. Mom made sloppy joes, cheeseball with crackers, and regular chips (bad choice #3). Ugh!!! I did drink 80+oz h20, but still...too many points. Oh yeah, my Mom makes the BEST fudge...and 3 pieces of that, plus these sugar+butter+walnuts she makes. OMG they are awesome and insanely the devil for someone like me! (bad choices #4,5,6, and a few handfuls of the nuts = 7,8,9?)

Yesterday started off good, well I had to go grocery shopping (that is stressful when you're on a tight budget thanks to Christmas spending). For lunch I ate 4 (YES 4) pieces of veggie pizza (leftover from Friday) (bad choices #10,11). Granted, it was veggies (no meat), and 2% cheese...but still...CRUST will kill ya!!! Later I munched on (get this) chocolate marshmallows (WTH?!...just to have something sweet, and the Hunney catches me and says "is that on your diet?". Ugh!) (bad choices # 12,13,14). So I fixed a 100 calorie packet of popcorn (finally a good choice, but really shouldn't have after the other crap). The Hunney and I went shopping as my cousin and his wife came over and watched the boys. It was good to go out...but people everywhere and I just get stressed doing stuff like that with The Hunney. Then I got mad when he wouldn't go through a drive thru so I could eat more garb! Seriously! Thank you Hunney for NOT stopping!!! When we got home I munched on several handfuls of carmel popcorn (in the tin kind) (bad choices #15,16,17,18,19), and then finally heated dinner up (enchiladas that I made earlier...I used turkey and fat free refried beans, plus mine were in la tortilla factor wraps)...but I ate it with DORITOS (bad choice #20).

Wow...what a horrible weekend of eating. Let's also admit to only working out Friday night...none on Saturday or Sunday! PHOOEY!!!!!! I did drink water...but that's about all that was good. So, I honestly dread the scale tomorrow

Whew...with that off my chest...I feel better, but ashamed.

So, onto the Weekend Recap!

My plans were:

Journal and be a good WW - EVERY DAY!
Drink my h20 - 80oz/day
Workout at least once
Finish 2 purses (Christmas presents)
Work on Christmas shopping with the Hunney
Mail Christmas cards, get and decorate Christmas tree
Grocery Shop
Paint fingernails (something for ME)
Start wrapping presents!

Here is my outcome:

Only Journaled Friday and part of Saturday!
Drank 80+oz h20 EVERY day!
Only worked out on Friday! BL Cardio Max
Did not get the purses done (will post a picture soon!), but they are started!
Did Christmas shop with the Hunney
Mailed my Christmas cards, and decorated the tree
Did NOT paint fingernails...again!
Did NOT start wrapping presents!

PHOOEY!

Weekend Plans

2009-12-11T16:32:00.002-05:00

Busy busy today...so this is a quicky!

Weekend Plan

Journal and be a good WW - EVERY DAY!
Drink my h20 - 80oz/day
Workout at least once
Finish 2 purses (Christmas presents)
Work on Christmas shopping with the Hunney
Mail Christmas cards, get and decorate Christmas tree
Grocery Shop
Paint fingernails (something for ME)
Start wrapping presents!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!!!!!!!!!

GAG - Time to see what you know challenge

2009-12-11T15:36:00.002-05:00

Gulp... here's another challenge for the GAG. Fortunately, this one is multiple choice...hope I know the answers!!!! (just peeking ahead, I think I may be in trouble...please don't laugh, these are my "guesses")

1) How many spoonfuls of sugar are in one can of regular cola?
a- 1
b- 3
c- 5
d- 7

2) Substituting turkey for beef two times per week will save you how many calories?
a- 150
b- 250
c- 350
d- 450

3) Which fast food item has the most calories?
a- Bacon Double Cheeseburger
b- 22 oz chocolate shake
c- Medium order of french fries
d- Medium order of onion rings

4) How many jumping jacks would you have to do to burn off the calories in a pint of ice cream?
a- 2000
b- 5000
c- 8000
d- 12000

5) What percentage of Americans eat fast food as a family meal at least once a week?
a- 10%
b- 29%
c- 52%
d- 70% (sad to think!!)

6) When should you have your first cholesterol screening?
a- At age 10.
b- At age 20.
c- At age 35.
d- At age 40.
e- It depends on your risk factors.

7) What percentage of your diet should fat make up?
a- About 10 percent of your daily calories.
b- About 20 percent of your daily calories.
c- About 30 percent of your daily calories.
d- About 40 percent of your daily calories.
e- There is no recommended amount of fat; you should strive to eat as little of it as possible.

8) How much exercise do you really need?
a- 45 minutes twice a week.
b- 30 minutes three or four days a week.
c- 60 minutes at least three or four days a week.
d- 30 minutes at least four or five days a week.
e- It depends on your age and overall physical-fitness level.

9) Which of the following is not a good approach to managing stress?
a- Talking directly to the person who is causing the stress.
b- Giving yourself a treat, like comfort food or a cocktail.
c- Accepting that there are things beyond your control.
d- Trying cognitive-behavioral therapy to learn new coping skills.
e- Working out regularly.

10) What is a healthy blood-pressure level?
a- 110/70.
b- 125/85.
c- 135/90.
d- 140/95.
e- 150/95.

11) What is a healthy body-mass index (BMI) measurement?
a- 17.5 or lower.
b- 18.5 or lower.
c- 18.5 to 24.9.
d- 25 to 29.9.
e- 30 to 34.9.

12) How many cups of fruit and vegetables should you eat daily?
a- At least one cup of fruit or vegetables.
b- One cup of fruit and one cup of vegetables.
c- One cup of fruit and 1 1/2 cups of vegetables, for a total of 2 1/2 cups.
d- Two cups of fruit and two cups of vegetables.
e- Four to five cups of fruit and vegetables.

13) What percentage of weight-loss ads contains false or unsupported claims?
a- 25 percent
b- 36 percent
c- 42 percent
d- 55 percent
e- 67 percent

14) How much weight loss is a safe and reasonable goal? *trick question...because a,b,c are correct in my eyes
a- Half a pound a week
b- A pound a week
c- Two pounds a week
d- Three pounds a week
e- More than three pounds a week

15) Some weight-loss products say they can prevent calories from being absorbed. What's the greatest amount of weight that can be lost using this method, according to experts?
a- One-third pound a week
b- One-half pound a week
c- One pound a week
d- None of the above

16) Some products, such as green tea extract, promise that they can cause you to "burn fat" without working out. How much do they really boost your metabolism?
a- 2 percent
b- 4 percent
c- 5 percent
d- 7 percent

17) Which of these claims should be a red flag about the safety or effectiveness of a weight-loss product?
a- It causes permanent weight loss
b- It helps the user lose more than three pounds a week for more than four weeks
c- Substantial weight loss occurs by wearing a device or rubbing a substance on the skin
d- All of the above

18) High-protein/low-carbohydrate diets are faulted because of their emphasis on saturated fats. What's another problem with these diets?
a- They can cause headaches
b- They can cause bad breath
c- They can make you feel tired and weak
d- All of the above

19) If you follow a low-fat diet, you don't have to watch your portions of which of these foods?
a- Pasta
b- Nonfat cookies
c- Nonfat chips
d- Whole-wheat bread
e- None of the above

20) Which items are examples of foods high in "healthy fats"?
a- Olive oil, peanut oil, canola oil, avocados, nuts and seeds
b- Safflower, corn, sunflower, soy and cottonseed oils
c- Fatty, cold-water fish (such as salmon, mackerel and herring), flaxseeds, flax oil and walnut
d- All of the above

Whew...it WAS tough!! Again, don't laugh please :)

Well, well, well....

2009-12-10T14:13:00.003-05:00

My fellow GAGers have surprised the heck out of me with a Gaggie award!!!!

Here's what they said about me!

Mandie was recognized for her Healthy Choices, Inspirational Postings, Not Giving Up, Great Rewards List, and finally, the TEAM SPIRIT AWARD. She was recognized for being 'team spirited' because she's always leaving comments for EVERYONE! That's awesome and I think it's totally worth getting recognized for.

Now how cool is that?!!!!! I'm completely shocked, flattered and STOKED about it! Thank you for "voting" for me! WOWOWOW! Oh, and let's not forget the nice things that were said about me! TEAM SPIRIT AWARD?! Awwww!!! SO sweet!

Honestly, I'm truly flattered with this award and thank you all sooo much! It was but a few months ago I didn't even use this blog thing, but it has helped me TREMENDOUSLY! For starters, the GAG challenge itself. It has kept me in line, and on track, and I needed it more than words can say. I like having followers, and knowing I'm being held accountable. And let's not forget I LOVE reading everyone's blogs. I really do! It makes me see and realize that I'm not the only one struggling out there. I hate that we are struggling, but knowing someone else is out there going through the SAME emotions really helps matters.

So thank you all for this award! I still am SHOCKED, but sooo happy. Words can't even begin to describe what the GAG has meant to me!!!

Moving on....I'd like to share something...I'm PROUD to say I have been working out all week long!!! The group exercise classes are helping me get back in the groove. I am also doing the Biggest Loser workouts every other night at home. Yes, I'm sore as all get out...and I'm super duper tired. BUT, I know that after a few weeks the energy from working out is going to go THROUGH THE ROOF!!! I already feel better, physical and emotional wise!! I can't wait to see the difference in my clothes before long!!

So, that's that. Nothing else to report in... have a wonderful Thursday friends!!!!!!

Weekly Weigh In

2009-12-08T10:34:00.003-05:00

It's that time again...WEIGH DAY! The GAG challenge end is 2 short weeks away, and I still can't believe that. I'm kind of "sad" about it, as it has helped me stay on track and motivated. What will happen when it's over??? GULP! I hate that I'm not going to hit my initial goal, BUT I'm pretty certain that these next 2 weeks will help me hit the "new" goal I set. As long as I stick with it, I will succeed!

This week has been a good week, and I love them. They make me feel so proud. I have got back into exercising, journaling AND eating right. So this morning I had NO problems stepping on the scale. I knew it was going to be a great number!!!

166.6

Hmm.... yeah, it's a 2.6lb loss, but I truly expected more. WHY OH WHY do we do that to ourselves? How can one possibly be "disappointed" with a 2.6lb loss???? Ridiculous is what it is. I lost weight! But in my mind I keep thinking , "But I did so good! I even exercised 2 times a day some days, my weekend was kick ass...and all I lost was 2.6lbs??!!". Silly silly silly! I should be JUMPING with joy...as I'm doing the right things, I am officially back to exercising and I LOST 2.6LBS!!!!

Okay...I'm happy! I'm Happy....I"M HAPPY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What I accomplished last week:

Journal and BE a good WW (especially on the weekend!) - YES!!!!
Exercise 3 days - YES I exercised 6 days!!!!!!!!
Get desk clean - Ugh...STILL working on
Get 1 purse finished (sewing) - 2 purses were finished!!!
Daily vitamin - I think I forgot 1 day...but I'm not 100% sure if I really did forget it that day?
Make a new recipe - I made chili in the crockpot. It wasn't really a new recipe, but it was a different way.

What I want to accomplish this week:

Journal and BE a good WW (again, especially on the weekend!)
Exercise 5 days
Continue to get desk clean
Get material for 2 more purses and get at least 1 purse finished (sewing)
Daily vitamin
Take the stairs in my office building 3x/day for 5 days!!!

Weekend Recap

2009-12-07T10:17:00.005-05:00

Wow...what a wonderfully busy weekend! Seriously! And I am happy to report I stayed on track! It's been a long time since I had a good weekend like that! Makes me look forward to tomorrow's weigh in!!! I hope it's good to me, I deserve it!!!

My Mom and I spent the weekend sewing! For my Big Boy's preschool class I decided I wanted to make crayon rolls to give to the kids. There are 23 in his class! Let's also make note that I wanted to sew at least 4 purses to give away as gifts...oh and I'm a NEWBIE at sewing! Last year was my first year, and I haven't sewn since Christmas time last year! GULP! I'd also like to note my Mom is a master seamstress, and has been sewing since high school. I'm thankful I have her, she totally helps when I have "problems" (so simple for her). Oh, and we had 2 toddlers (2.5 years old) pestering us too! My Little Guy, and my nephew. They made it "entertaining" to say the least!

My Mom cutting out the material

The Little Ones

Our first finished product!

My plans were:

Journal and be a good WW - EVERY DAY!
Drink my h20 - 80oz/day
Workout at least once
Finish 1 purse (Christmas present)
Purchase material and start 23 crayon rolls
Work on Christmas gift list
Finish Christmas cards
Paint fingernails

Here is my outcome:

Yes...I journaled all 3 days and was a GOOD WW!
Drank 80+oz h20 EVERY day!
Worked out Sunday evening!!! BL Cardio Max
My Mom finished 2 purses - while I worked on Crayon Rolls - I'm ahead schedule!
Bought, cut, and sewed 24 Crayon Rolls - DONE!
Christmas gift list is completed, now to buy!
All Christmas cards are addressed, will mail on Friday
Did NOT paint fingernails...and sure enough, this morning, 2 nails broke! ARGH!

All in all a GREAT successful OP weekend! So Proud and HAPPY!!!!!! Yesterday evening after dinner I took the kiddos on a drive to look at all the Christmas ligths. There's one especially I wanted to show them where you drive through it. It's amazing! I took pictures, but they did NOT turn out...they are too blurry. We'll definitely go again and hopefully I'll get better pictures!!!

A GAG Challenge!

2009-12-07T09:53:00.002-05:00

Fun stuff here! It's time for another GAG Challenge! Should be testing what I've learned already, hope I pass :)

1. Women who lift weights will get bulky muscles.
FALSE!

2. "Spot reducing" (focusing on one area with exercises to see faster results in that one area) is possible.
FALSE!

3. Exercise boosts brain power.
TRUE!

4. No pain, no gain.
FALSE!

5. Movement melts away stress.
TRUE!

6. Exercise requires a hefty time commitment.
FALSE!

7. If you exercise, you can eat whatever you want.
FALSE!!!!!!!! I know this one for a fact!

8. There’s a magic bullet (quick fix) out there somewhere.
FALSE! But I doooo wish!

9. Exercise gives you energy.
TRUE!

10. All excuses aside, it's actually not that hard to find some amount of time for fitness daily.
TRUE!

11. You need a gym membership if you want your exercise routine to be most effective.
FALSE!!

12. People who have exercise partners stay with their programs and reach their goals more often than those who try to go it alone.
TRUE! I totally know this one too...when I lost my partner, it was easier NOT to hit the gym!

13. Exercise helps ward off disease.
TRUE!

14. Exercise is good for the heart.
TRUE!

15. Pound for pound, muscle burns more calories at rest than body fat -- so you can eat more calories and still lose weight if you exercise regularly.
TRUE!

Weekend Plans

2009-12-04T15:38:00.002-05:00

HIya friends! Yes, it's been a few days since I blogged...work has been busy, and I just haven't had a whole lot to blog about. PLUS, I'm doing really good with eating and exercising...and I didn't want to jinx myself. Funny I know...but every time I do, I seem to slip up shortly after. Ugh!

Anyway, I've been rocking to the Biggest Loser workouts (Cardio Max and Power Sculpt), but taking it easy since I was SHOCKED at how out of breath I was doing the beginner level! WOW! Yeah, this girl is out of shape. Plus, I'm babying a self-diagnosed tennis elbow. It's been hurting for quite awhile...not sure exactly when, but a few months at least. So anyway...I researched it finally since it's not get any better, and yeah, I'm pretty sure I over did it when I was lifting weights a few months back. I was doing "heavy" weights...and I think I hurt it. So I'm babying it now. I still have some research to do, but for now...I'm just babying it.

Moving on...I have lots to do this weekend since Christmas is rolling up quickly, so I'm working on my lists (to keep myself sane). BUT, I'm making sure that I am a priority this weekend and I'm sticking to my goals.

Speaking of goals... here's my weekend plan!

Weekend Plan

Journal and be a good WW - EVERY DAY!
Drink my h20 - 80oz/day
Workout at least once
Finish 1 purse (Christmas present)
Purchase material and start 23 crayon rolls
Work on Christmas gift list
Finish Christmas cards
Paint fingernails

Lots to do this weekend...but I can do it!!!! Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!!

Weekly Weigh In

2009-12-01T14:26:00.006-05:00

I still am having a hard time grasping that this is DECEMBER 1ST?! HOLY MOLY! And ya'll know this is a crazy month with Christmas parties, Christmas shopping, wrapping, decorating, baking, sewing (yes!)...and in the midst of it all I want to LOSE MORE WEIGHT and get back to exercising CONSISTENTLY!!! I'm serious about it too!!!

So backing up....today was that dreadful day. I hated to step on that scale today...but I HAD to. It's the rules! I'm up 2.8lbs (169.2). Under 3lbs after a crazy 4 day weekend with a holiday....I'll take it. Not happy about it (or with me), but I knew what the outcome would be if I ate like I did and was so sedentary!!

Moving on....that's all I can do!!!! Today is day 2, and I even got a workout in yesterday....wasn't the gym, but it still definitely counts! I hit it up with the hottie Bob from the BL and did the Cardio Max. I'm embarrassed that I only did the beginner level, but know by the end of the month I'll be doing BETTER!!!!

So this is the last 3 weeks of the GAG challenge. Can't believe it has gone by this quickly! WOWOW! So for the last 3 weeks I want to get back to exercising, and REALLY want to get under 165. That will be short from my original goal...but I'll take it with a smile.

Goal time!

What I accomplished last week:

Journal and be a Good WW - 1 day, yesterday!
Enjoy Thanksgiving (Free day) and make sure I talk about what I'm thankful for - wooohoo! Got this one!
Exercise 3 days, even if it's walking!! - 1 day, thanks to yesterday
Continue 30 days of Affirmations - 0 days
December monthly menu plan - YES!
Get DESK clean! - Uh...still working on!
Have fun Black Friday shopping with Mom!! - The best time...and got LOADS of great deals!

What I want to accomplish this week:

Journal and BE a good WW (especially on the weekend!)
Exercise 3 days
Get desk clean
Get 1 purse finished (sewing)
Daily vitamin
Make a new recipe

And for fun...here is the turkey cake my husband and I made for Thanksgiving! It is a annual tradition to do a different Thanksgiving cake to take to my family gathering. SOOO fun!!!

It all comes to an end

2009-11-30T13:31:00.003-05:00

And boy oh boy am I ever thankful for that!!!! I admit to not doing ANYTHING I planned to be/stay healthy, figures. But, I enjoyed the time spent with family and friends. I think that means something. I ate ONLY my favorites at Thanksgiving...but hate that I LOVE cheese ball and crackers! Those should be illegal or something. I also had a few chocolate chip cookies...that one right after another slipped in my mouth and melted away. Oh, and when the Hunney and I were making our "annual Thanksgiving cake" (different every year!) I ate spoonfuls of my homemade buttercream icing! Oops. But, I have to stop beating myself up...and move on. That's ALL you can do. So I'm thankful that Thanksgiving has come, and GONE. I'm also glad to be back at work and back into routine...it helps me. I DO hate the thought of stepping on the scale tomorrow...and wish I had a free day for GAG. But, I used those babies up already. So...tomorrow I will hesitantly step on the evil piece sitting in my bathroom.

Today is new...and I am back on track. There's nothing more important than that! I'm working on December's menu, and planning on visiting either the love of my life (Bob from the Biggest Loser) or the guy that kicks my butt every time (Billy Blanks) tonight before the Hunney rolls in. I'd also like to do a 15 minute interval training...but maybe one step at a time?

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T11:47:00.001-05:00

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!!! I hope you all take the time to be truly thankful for what you've got, what you've accomplished, and the person you have become!!!!

I'm very thankful for all of you joining me on this journey!!!!

Be safe and have fun!!!!

Weekend Recap, Weekly Weigh In

2009-11-24T11:28:00.003-05:00

I'm in a slump...and trying to claw my way out. Ugh. Do you ever just get so disappointed in YOURSELF that you don't know what to do?! That's me. I KNOW what to do...but struggle with doing it. I am good for a few days, and then crash and burn. Very disturbing. But don't worry...I'm okay. I always pick up the pieces and try again. It's really all you can do, you know?!

Okay...so on to the fun stuff.

My plans were:

Journal and be a good WW
Drink my h20 - 80oz/day
Workout at least once
Enjoy Friday date night with the Hunney
Enjoy my Saturday with family and friends

Here is my outcome:

Did not journal ONE DAY! Pathetic!
Totally drank some h20, but on Sunday I was short of 80oz!
Did NOT workout. On Sunday when I was getting ready to go with a friend I realized my gym clothes (and more importantly sports bras) were at WORK!!!!
Had a wonderful date night with Hunney and saw 2012!!!
Totally enjoyed craft day at my house with my aunts and friends!!! We had a BALL!

Totally blew the weekend when it came to weightloss. But, life isn't all about weightloss right??

So today...weigh day. Gulp Was not looking forward to it. Like I said, I'm in a slump. No exercise in 4 days and no journaling the same! SCARY STUFF!!!

I was fortunate to see a MAINTAIN. I hate it...but I will take it. I mean, I deserve it...but I still hate it. I HATE that I'm not moving the way I want to. I asked myself this morning..."Mandie, you've lost 50'ish lbs, WHY is it so hard to lose the remaining 30?!!" One day at a time....

On to goals....

What I accomplished last week:

Journal and be a good "WW" - only got 3.5 days in
Exercise 3 days - again worked out 2 days
Continue with 30 days of affirmations - missed 4 days
Make 1 new recipe - YES, french dip in the crockpot that was AWESOME!
Finish the work on my desk (my personal goal with GAG) - YES 75% complete!
Take my Multi-vitamin- missed 2 days on the weekend
Drink at least 80oz h20 (weekends I struggle) - Only missed 1 day (Sunday)

And for new goals....

What I want to accomplish this week:

Journal and be a Good WW
Enjoy Thanksgiving (Free day) and make sure I talk about what I'm thankful for
Exercise 3 days, even if it's walking!!
Continue 30 days of Affirmations
December monthly menu plan
Get DESK clean!
Have fun Black Friday shopping with Mom!!

There ya have it... not too happy today... with myself. Need to reread some blog posts I made when I was motivated and map out my plan :) There...I put on a smiley... it's okay. It's Thanksgiving, my favorite holiday! And yeah, I LOVE food. I just hate this is such a struggle. Really...I do!

Weekend Plans

2009-11-20T15:49:00.003-05:00

It's that time AGAIN! It amazes me how quickly it comes! Sooo....here are my big plans. Tonight, movie night with the Hunney! We very very rarely go out, let alone to a movie - he hates spending the big bucks for it, plus I have severe hearing loss and even with the LOUD theater surround sound, I can't understand half of what is said (it's certain tones I can't hear...we watch TV and movies at home with the captions on...I know, annoying for most, but my family has learned to deal with it and it's the ONLY way I can watch and get what is going on. It sucks. This should be a friendly reminder to turn down your mp3 players and ipods! SERIOUSLY people, this is what caused my PERMANENT damage (although it was way before cool mp3 players/ipods were around).

ANYWAY....back to my weekend. We will hopefully grab some Subway for dinner and then hit the 8:15 movie of 2012. I'm popping and sneaking in my own popcorn (shhhh!), I've got the Twizzlers (gotta have them, it's a movie tradition!) and just enjoy spending time with the Hunney.

On Saturday it is craft day at my house with my Mom, 2 aunts, best friend, and a co-worker (possibly 2 friends of my aunt too). We are all preparing some good lunch food. I'm making a WW slow cooker recipe so I can stick on plan! I'll share the recipe on Monday! I've made it before, but I can't remember it all right now. I also plan to work out! I MUST! I really want to. The Hunney is going to a poker tournament at the casino, so who knows when he'll be home, so I'll probably watch some good movies while he's out!

Sunday I am meeting a friend at the Y to get some good friend time and exercise in!!!! WOOHOO!

The exercise is coming because I snuck on the scales this morning and was NOT happy when it read the same thing as 3 days ago. WTF?! I've been OP...so I dunno what's up. So, I'm kicking it up a notch and gonna get it to MOVE!

Weekend Plan

Journal and be a good WW
Drink my h20 - 80oz/day
Workout at least once
Enjoy Friday date night with the Hunney
Enjoy my Saturday with family and friends

Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!! Eat less...move more!! Oh, and sorry about being quiet yesterday, I'm super busy working on getting my work done on my desk (a goal this week!)

Ugh, that dreaded word....

2009-11-18T14:27:00.003-05:00

One of my goals this week is to exercise 3 days. That doesn't seem hard...does it? Well, let's back up a bit. 2 years ago I restarted this journey (after the okay from my Dr - as I had just had a new baby). I joined the gym at my work, because a) it was so cheap b) payroll deducted c) convenient for me so I could go at lunch. I round up as many co-workers as I could, to go to the Faculty/Staff group exercise classes Monday - Friday. Amazingly I got 3 others to go with me. I figured if I had someone to go with, it would be easier to go - or harder to say NO when I didn't want to.

What a great jumpstart to my weightloss! I was doing awesome. Before long I got a trainer and learned all about how to do things on my own, and how to use the machines in the gym. Wow...the weight MELTED off!!! Slowly but surely all my co-workers fell off the wagon, and before long it was just me. Fortunately another co-worker started going with me though.

Let's fast forward to eh...I don't even know when it happened, but at some point that flame went out. The fire I once had for exercise somehow dwindled and literally disappeared. And honestly, I have been trying to relight that fire for some time.

Last week I made it to the gym 2 times. A day short of my goal. Argh. I again set the goal of 3 days this week, and I'm going to hit it!!

Today I decided maybe I should go "back to basics" and hit up the classes again. At least that way I was going. I wouldn't have to "think" about what to do...someone would be instructing me. Today's class was Strength 45. The instructor actually asked me if I was new, as she'd never seen me before! Lol! I told her I'd been to a couple of her classes, but that I had kind of got lazy the past few weeks/months. She promised to give me a good wake up a call and workout. Sure enough she worked me to death!!! It was great, and I'm super proud and happy I went!

1 day down...2 more to go!

Weekly Weigh In

2009-11-17T13:14:00.006-05:00

So today was that day we all know so well. You know the day when you wake up and step on that scale naked,....on off, on off, on off...just to see if that number changes?! This weigh in I wasn't for sure what to expect. I had my first official "free day" on the weekend thanks to my birthday. And TOM. All I kept thinking was "please say 166".

166.4

I'll take it. The 166 is there...and then .4 is nothing. As a good friend said, less than 1/2 a lb. With what I am working with here - I'll gladly take it. It also fuels me for this week. With TOM out of the way, as well as no free days planned I'm certain I can have a great weigh in. I'm aiming for the 2lbs I need so I can reach my first goal!

Let's review last weeks goals, and how I did.

What I accomplished last week:

Journal (at least 6 days since I have a *free day* with my birthday!) - Completed!
Exercise 3 days - Nope...only got 2 days in
30 days of affirmations (I'm currently on day 4) - Completed!
Make 1 new recipe - Completed! (Green beans and ham in the crockpot! YUM!)
Paint my nails - Completed!

And for new goals....

What I want to accomplish this week:

Journal and be a good "WW"
Exercise 3 days
Continue with 30 days of affirmations
Make 1 new recipe
Finish the work on my desk (my personal goal with GAG)
Take my Multi-vitamin
Drink at least 80oz h20 (weekends I struggle)

Next week is Thanksgiving, so I'm giving it my all this week. I know that Thanksgiving is going to be tough as usual, BUT if I can do well before and after...I can survive Thanksgiving!!! BTW, Thanksgiving is my FAVORITE holiday!!!

Weekend Recap

2009-11-16T11:49:00.003-05:00

The weekend is over...how did I do?

My plans were:

ENJOY my birthday!
Take family pictures
Workout at least once
Drink my h20
Be a good WW 2 out of the 3 days (since I have a free day!)

Here is my outcome:

Totally enjoyed my birthday! One of the best yet!
Took family pictures, MAYBE happy with 1! argh!
Did NOT workout even once! Phooey!
Drank my water!
Was totally a good WW every other day!!

How do I feel about the free day?

Well, it was different. I felt very ... confused. Especially when the Hunney kind of gave me a look at the buffet dinner on Saturday night. (I used my free day Saturday night - Sunday morning so I could enjoy the buffet restaurant where we stayed). So I totally felt like I was cheating. I told him about my 4 day plan, and he even asked if that was "okay". Well, it's okay for me...because if I give myself these 4 day, the plan is that I won't need/want to splurge every other day during "the holidays". Does he get it...I don't think so. But this MY journey right?

So anyway, last night the Hunney says "I don't want you to take this the wrong way, but is there something I can do to help you with losing the weight?". I was surprised...and well honestly couldn't think of anything. I would love more than anything to include him in this...but I'm not sure how. Ideas anyone????

Hunney went all out and got me the perfume I wanted, and would NEVER buy myself (who pays that kind of money for perfume anyway?!!), as well as a Colts jersey. He was concerned with the size, said he didn't want it to be too small. But ALSO said that if it was, maybe that would help motivate me. He truly means well and wants me to be happy with myself.

All in all, it was a wonderful birthday. And can you imagine how thankful I am for such a loving and CARING husband?!!! WOW. Now, if only I can stick with this and show him what I'm made up. That I CAN do this! I want to do this.... (side note...TOM is here...and affects how I feel ... you know that BLAH feeling?!).

Weekend Plans, Thank You's, Pictures and a Recipe!

2009-11-13T14:09:00.009-05:00

It has come...the weekend...my friends!!! We all love them, and we all sort of are afraid of them. The weekends becomes a time when we get out of routine, slip up, get off track, miss exercise, make excuses, and well GAIN WEIGHT. It's scccarrrry people!!!

But this weekend is different for me! I'm stoked! Well yes, of course my birthday is Sunday (Happy Birthday Me!), and the Hunney is treating me to a sleep-over at French Lick Resort and Casino! Yes, the kiddos will following along, but it'll be a fun time spent at the pool, bowling alley, and just "getting away".

I plan on taking our annual family pictures while there, and it is my first official "free day" for the holidays. Remember how I am allowing myself "4 free days this holiday season to not worry about points or tracking. I will be careful NOT to use those days as an excuse to eat everything in sight and go hog wild"? Well, my first one is this weekend! Woohoo! I think giving myself this free day will be good for me. I think it will help me stay in control, and I'm ready to give myself a bit of freedom to see what kind of choices I make.

Weekend Plan

ENJOY my birthday!
Take family pictures
Workout at least once
Drink my h20
Be a good WW 2 out of the 3 days (since I have a free day!)

Now time for some THANK YOU'S!

Thank you Jen @ Prior Fat Girl for posting my sweat picture yesterday, oh and your tough love!
Thank you Gayle @ Grocery Cart Challenge for all your WONDERFUL ideas!
Thank you Heather @ A new Heather for bringing me to the GAG Challenge!!
Thank you Kim @ A Transfigured Life for all your inspiration! WOW...I want to be like you!

I also want to thank my boys... for the cutest things they say!!! The other day I had on a dress (I NEVER wear dresses). And my oldest says "Mommy, I love your dress"! Awwww!! Even Daddy doesn't say stuff like that! When I put my shoes on (heels - which I again NEVER wear) he says again "oooh, and I love your shoes Mommy!". I of course didn't like how I felt and changed, and he says "but Mommy, I loved what you had on!". He's going to be a real heart throb ladies...watch out! Thank you Brody for being you and REALLY caring!!!!

And my little guy... thank you for being Mommy's little helper! From vacuuming, helping put the dishes away, dusting, folding laundry, and cooking (seriously!) he is every girls dream come true!!!! And let's not forget how sweet those smiles are, even at 2am when he needs to potty or wants a drink or can't find his blankie. Thank you Tucker for being SO helpful and loving...oh and sharing Mommy's love of OREO cookies!!!

And for now....last but not least, thank you goes out to my Hunney. Wow! Where do I even start!?! You are amazing all that you do for our happiness. Thank you for being you, making me smile and being the best Daddy to a bunch of crazy kiddos! We've gone through a lot in our short time together...but I wouldn't trade it for the world!!!

Now time for a Thanksgiving Recipe to share with ya'll! YUMMY! I got this over from Blog To Lose and I'm definitely going to be trying it! Portion control is one of my biggest problems, so all the help I can get...rock on!!!! Unsure of the nutritional count since I haven't added it to spark yet...but will do so. YUMMY!

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Stuffin Muffins

10 slices Aunt Millie's Fiber for Life Light Bread ( or any bread where 2 slices= 1Pt)
2 stalks of celery, chopped( more or less to preference)
1/2 C chopped onion ( more or less)
FF butter spray ( I like Pam)
poultry seasoning
sage, thyme, Whatever seasonings you like!
Salt and Pepper

Saute the onion and celery in spray. Cover and cook until soft. Tear the bread into 1" pieces. Toss with the celery and onion mixture. Add water (or chicken broth, FF of course) while tossing until stuffing is of desired consistency.Not too dry, not too wet. Spray 6 cup muffin tin with Pam. About 1/2 C of mixture per well. BAke at 325 until browned. 1pt per muffin

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Okay ya'll...that's all I have time for today! Hope everyone has a splendid weekend (not sure I'll make it back online)!!!!!

Thankfulness all around

2009-11-12T12:00:00.024-05:00

Well, as much as I hated to do it...I have decided to take a REST day from exercise! I know, I know...BUT it's for a good cause - I can't walk people! My quads are killing me like never before. So, instead of killing myself with Step Class today, I decided to make it a rest day, and kill em again tomorrow.

*FYI - this is a VERY long read. And can be a little monotonous... so you have been forewarned :)*

So it hit me a little while ago, I've never really shared my true beginning story and why I'm so thankful that the light finally came on. Here it goes...with pictures and EVERYTHING!!!

All growing up I was never the skinny gal. I hated sports, and loved food. In high school I joined the guard with the band and was fairly active and actually started dieting (anyone remember that horrid Cabbage Soup Diet where you could only eat certain things on certain days?! UGH!).

After high school I got married, to the jerk (he doesn't even deserve a Capital letter). Let's just say that it was ABUSIVE verbally and physically. When I left him nearly a year later I had put on some poundage and still clearly remember him saying "you'll always be a fatass". Ugh. That was the start of a LONG 15 years of hell and weight issues. I will always remember how thankful I was for that day our divorce was final!!!

Let me also state that I don't remember numbers...I'm terrible like that. I'm not even 100% sure I weighed back then. As you can tell my memory is a blur when it comes to that time and thereafter. He screwed my head up pretty bad. I'm sure I can dig out my old Weight Watcher membership that would say, because after I split from the jerk, my Dad made a deal with me. He would pay for me to go to WW with him, as long as I lost. When I gained, I would have to pay that week. He also gave me the deal that when I hit goal weight he would buy me all new clothes.

Well, being 18, I didn't care enough I guess. I wanted to hang out with my friends and party and what-not. So that didn't last long. Never reached goal. Quite a bummer too! I sure would've loved NEW CLOTHES!

YEARS go by, of course my weight goes CRAZY and I'm "dieting" the whole time, but again never remembering numbers (I suspect 200's?). Enter new boyfriend. We fall in love, get engaged and I work on losing some weight for the wedding. I suspect I lost about 20lbs with WW'ers and working out (Gutts and Butts classes!). After the wedding, well...who cares anymore...right?

My Dad, Me, My Bro and My Mom (with their skinny genes)

New husband and I want to have a baby...so we start trying to conceive. Ugh...NO LUCK?! I do too much research and think we'll have to go the IVF route. I'm crushed, depression hits...and the weight really starts to pile on. My all time highest (not pregnant) was 222 (that I have written down) in 1999 and 2000.

I finally got pregnant using a fertility drug, but miscarried VERY early on. New husband and I start to have serious problems. I start focusing on myself and I start to lose weight again, using WW. Dropped about 40'ish lbs before realizing new husband is a drug addict and is arrested. Talk about eye opener. My whole world is turned UPSIDE down. We were buying our FIRST home, thanks from the help of my parents, and now he's turned out to be a jerk and a druggie?!!! WOWOW! As you can guess the weight starts to roll back on, up to 217 (that I can find written). New husband and I decide to divorce. Too much deceit was there and other issues. Again...thankful for the journey, but even more thankful for the end!

In 2002 I start down the road again, and manage to lose almost 45lbs! I am on FIRE and feel wonderful. Get a new HOT boyfriend (can we say boy toy) and down another road. Eventually I find out the boy toy is um...10 years YOUNGER than me. But I have already fallen in love with him. This becomes the start of the worst relationship...even worse than the jerk. VERY abusive kid who has some serious authority issues, not to mention lack of morals. WHY I stick with this toy for so long still is a question in my head. But I got down to my all-time new low of 167!!!

Wouldn't you know that losing all that weight, and uh...having a boy toy would make it so I got pregnant?!! WOWZA! But we lost that baby, and a few months down another pregnancy. You can bet between the abuse I went through (physical), the depression from suffering 3 miscarriages and beginning to think I will never have children started taking a toll on me. I regain and lose the same oh 20lbs for some time. And then finally, I get pregnant again. This time I deliver (4/28/05) a healthy and happy bouncing baby boy (weight at delivery 233!). He became EVERYTHING to me. I can't even begin to describe how thankful I am that God decided I could be this beautiful baby boy's Momma!!!

The AH HA moment finally hit me. This kiddo will be looking up to me, learning from me, and depending on ME. 8 months into his life I kick the boy toy out and decide we are MUCH better without him in our lives. There is something wrong with a guy if he thinks it's okay to beat the sh*t out the Momma while holding the innocent little baby and the baby is screaming about it.

This began the real journey. Yes...the journey where Mandie finds Mandie. Where I learn how to take care of myself because now I am responsible for this little guy. He will be looking up to me. I want to show him that Momma can take care of herself as well as him. So now enters the new Mandie! I'm kicking butt and taking names. The boy toy continues to try and screw up my life (yes even to this day!), but the little guy (who becomes the big boy later) and I are doing GREAT on our own!!! Amazingly I'm down to my LOWEST ever to 155 (Spring of 06) ! WOWOW! I am on fire happy. For once I feel I really know what I'm doing, and really doing!!!! Exercising and eating RIGHT, making myself and my baby happy... who cares I'm a single Momma...I'm doing 100x better without the boy toy!!! I am beyond thankful that I've finally gotten my life on the right track and I'm doing a pretty good job of raising my son!

Then lo and behold the Hunney and I match up! This is truly like the sunshine after the rain. I can't even begin to tell you how different and how wonderful this guy is to me and my son. WOW! I haven't felt happiness like this ... well ... ever! We fall in love...and of course my weight stops, but at least it maintains. I'm comfortable...and oh so happy. THANKFUL.

In August 2006 I find myself pregnant again. WOW! I think the weightloss had to do with LOTS for my body!!! We're not so sure what to think and feel about this pregnancy, since we are a new couple...but we accept it. We end up having a rough patch...but again, we're a fresh couple...but very much in love. Guess who stopped caring about eating right and exercising? Yeah...me! I was so afraid I'd have another miscarriage...so I stopped working out immediately. And slowly but surely I started eating all those "bad" foods all again. I gain about 60lbs with the pregnancy and end up delivering another beautiful bouncing baby boy (5/7/07) weighing in at 213lbs. How thankful I was to again be blessed by God to be responsible for this little guy!!! I can't even express the gratitude and happiness I felt.

After my little guy comes, you can bet Momma is more than motivated to lose the weight again!!! Once the Dr gave me the okay I started working out, got a personal trainer, and really went to town! In August 2007 the Hunney proposed to me, and then I was even more determined to get that baby weight off!! We were going to become a family!!! I have never felt more thankful...wow! The guy of my dreams is going to be mine!!! I am cranking it now!

In March 2008, I got down to my pre-pregnancy LOW weight of 155 and we headed to Vegas and got married! When we returned from Vegas I ran my first ever 5k, and then my wonderful husband let me have a girls night out less than a month after our wedding...and I was on cloud 9!

Unfortunately in June 2008 our home was flooded. We had to demolish the house and start fresh. It was a LONG 10 months...and we spent it in my parents basement. It tested our marriage, our faith, but we came out ahead. We have never been more thankful for where we are now.

Well, you can imagine how tough, stressful and out of whack I went living with my parents. It was their family of 4 (my brother and his son plus my parents) and then my family of 4 all under 1 roof. Let's just say it was the toughest thing I've yet to endure. Cooking for 8 sometimes 9 and 10 when my step son would be there and my brothers other son...gulp!

Well, during these stressful times I regained 20'ish lbs. But I'm happy to report I'm back on the road again. We have been in our new home a little over 7 months. FINALLY I'm settled, and have finally found that path again. It was tough...but I'm here and more than ready to get to goal. In September I went back to Vegas when my girlfriend got married. After seeing those pictures helped me realize how I had let myself go. I'm thankful those pictures opened my eyes....because had they not, I'm afraid it was the start of where I had already been. And I swore to myself I would never get there again. I have 2 children that NEED me. They need to look up to me. And they NEED me to be healthy....

I'm in the yellow dress

So there you have it. How I got to where I am.... It becomes real clear to me when I write this where I let myself go and why. It's unfortunate. But I have the opportunity to take charge in my life and make it better. With the kiddos in my life it makes it easier. I know they depend on me.

Thanks for reading if you read this far!! WOWZA!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ouch and Love

2009-11-11T14:58:00.004-05:00

I am happy to report that yesterday I finally made it back to the gym. It had been oh, nearly a month I suppose (strenght training anyway), so I really didn't want to go. But thanks to my coworker, she MADE me go!

It was weird walking in there, that's for sure. All the "regulars" were there, and honestly they were the people I didn't want to see. I felt all flabby, and unsure what to do. I HATE going to the gym without a plan. But, I got there, cranked my mp3, and did it! Really - I DID IT! I got myself focused, sweated like crazy, and you know what... I felt AWESOME!

I'm trying something "new" and "different" this month...15 minutes FAT BLASTING workouts. So, I did 15 mins of resistance training, and then 15-20'ish mins of high interval "tabatas". This consisted of jump squats, mountain climbers, box jumps (gulp!), jumping rope, jumping jacks, etc. WOWZA! It was tough...but it was worth it. I was so stinking sweaty I sent a "sweaty pic" to someone I stalk. Ya'll must check her out... I give her the credit for motivating me to get all sweaty. I'm SO THANKFUL FOR HER!!! Thank you Prior Fat Girl! What she has accomplished, and endured...inspires me. She keeps on keeping on...and for that, I love her!!!

Now today....I can BARELY walk! I'm telling you people....OUCH! And wouldn't you know that my favorite little coworker spunks up to me and is like "we're going today - right?". Ugh... are you kidding me, I can barely walk, and you're lucky I made it out of bed and to work!!!! But...okay...fine...if I must. Today I ran 2 miles, walked 1/2, did some ab work and lots of stretching. I'm slowly working myself back up to running...and hopefully in the next few weeks I'll get to start my 1/2 marathon training I want to accomplish in the spring. If I don't start training, well that mini is going to come QUICK!!!

So there ya have it...I exercised. I'm in horrible pain...but I love it! And I know after a week or so I'll be back in full swing and feeling like myself again. I HATE falling off that wagon, it's harder to start back up than even eating right. Well..maybe not! LOL!

On to something more fun....GAG! This weeks challenge is going to be AWESOME! We get to talk about what we're thankful for! WOOHOO!!! Let me just start by saying I'm thankful for lots...so this WILL be a fun "challenge". What I'm thankful for more than anything is my love and faith in God. He is truly what keeps me sane, strong, and ticking. I may not attend church weekly, but He is always in my heart and mind. It's so fun, because now I get to teach my boys all about God's Love and his Promises. It can be tough...because I dont' know all the answers they ask, but the one thing I want them to know is that God DOES hear their prayers and loves them unconditionally. Getting us to church is something I want to work on though...as I don't have all the answers. I want them growing up with Gods Love and a church family. It's hard making those first steps though... Anyway... that's what I'm thankful for, always and FOREVER!

Ouch...gotta try and walk to the restroom...ouch!!!

Weekly Weigh In

2009-11-10T10:29:00.004-05:00

It's that time again folks...time to WEIGH IN!!!! And, for the first time in a long time, I was actually excited and have a NEW BEST FRIEND.... Yes, that's right...the SCALE! WOOHOO!

It had been 2 weeks since I weighed, thanks to leaving the scale at work last week. Still, I busted butt and was OP all week long! Yay me! It paid off too!

Drumroll please....

The scale said - 166! That is a 5.2lb loss! WOOHOO!!!! And I'm only 1.6lbs from my "first" goal! Which I'm hoping to meet next Tuesday! YIPPIE!!!

I have lost 11.6lbs since starting the GAG challenge, and only have 11lbs to hit my goal!!!

So, I'm going to start some weekly goals to help me stay on track. Here we go...

What I want to accomplish this week:

Journal (at least 6 days since I have a *free day* with my birthday!)
Exercise 3 days
30 days of affirmations (I'm currently on day 4)
Make 1 new recipe
Paint my nails

What I accomplished last week:

Journal 6 days!
Painted my toenails
Had a successful OP weekend
Started daily affirmations

Weekend Recap

2009-11-09T10:51:00.004-05:00

The weekend has come and gone.... and after my several month hiatus of not being OP, I finally have an OP weekend!!! Yes, that's right ya'll...I DID! I journaled, and honestly made the RIGHT choices! I ROCK :) And for once I'm super excited about tomorrow's weigh in!!!! I just know the scale is going to be my best friend!!!

The Hunney and I packed up the kiddos, the van (well and his truck and trailer hauling the race truck) and went out of town to race on Saturday. This usually is the hardest part for me. You've been to a race track I'm sure...and KNOW the food that lingers at the concessions. We made one trip, I saw the prices, and saw they had no grilled chicken (only double greasy cheeseburgers, french fries, nachos, chili cheese dogs, and FRITOS). I bought the Hunney a double cheeseburger and asked if there were a McD's near by. Lol! When the kiddos and I got to McD's, I asked if they had a Subway in town - no. Well, okay...that means I have to eat something from here. Ordered the grilled chicken, no mayo, no value meal for me :) Then we went to the gas station and I bought some sunflower seeds, baked chips, lunchmeat and stuff for sandwiches later, and we were set! I kept myself busy at the track reading, playing with the kiddos and watching the Hunney race (he won by the way - yes he ROCKS!) We ended up pulling out at 9pm'ish...stopped at the gas station for gas and a diet coke (I'd struggle without the caffeine and a 2.5 hour drive home), and then he decided he wanted White Castle. When asked if I wanted something I - amazingly - easily declined! YAY ME!!!

Yesterday my Mom and and I headed to the fabric store, and then to grocery shop. I figured if I was buying healthy groceries, it were opt for her to do the same. I'm proud to say my Mom bought some Lean Cuisines! Hey, it's a start!!!! I brought some bagged lettuce for part of my lunch (yes we work together) so she'll have that too.

Honestly, this has been such an on track weekend that I'm SUPER proud of myself. I set some goals and plans for the weekend, and though I didn't get them all accomplished, I'm proud of what I did get done.

This next weekend is my birthday, and it is a "free" day I've given myself. I have given myself 4 days throughout the next 2 months. All other days I will be a "good weight watcher", I will stay consistent with my exercising, etc. :) 4 days...what a treat!!!! So Sunday will be a treat day for me! Am anxious about it, but know every other day will be on target!!!

Here's to a successful week!

Posture problems....and my Mom

2009-11-06T15:18:00.004-05:00

First off...yeah, 2 blog posts in one day - amazing eh?! Well, I can't help it... I just had to talk about this. My Mom has been skinny her whole life ...yeah, her WHOLE life. I've always been so jealous of her because she could eat whatever she wanted. When my parents met she could eat a Whopper, and a large french fry, plus a 2 liter of coke! WOW!

Anyway, when she went through the "change", my poor Mom started gaining weight. I'm not exactly sure how much she's gained...but 50'ish would be my guess. At the same time is when I started focusing on me losing my weight. Selfishly I never thought to include her...well, not until a few months ago, and honestly now I'm not sure how to bring up the subject. I've found myself a little "pushy" I suppose is the word. "Mom, you shouldn't be eating that...". No one likes to be around someone like that... me for one!!! So, this is something I'm working on.

Okay Mandie...back to the subject here. Today at lunch for the first time in years I noticed my Mom's posture. It was HORRIBLE and slouched! My entire life my Mom has ALWAYS sat up straight while sitting at the table...and today, she looked like ME. I'm a terrible sloucher, and I finally realized that, of course blaming all the fat. Now my Mom has been attacked by it too, and it truly saddened me.

Now is the time when my Mom needs ME... I'm the one that has struggled with my weight my WHOLE life...she needs me to help her learn about good foods. So, that is my goal...I've got to figure out how I can get her on the same path as me... Gulp! This may be just what I need to help me stay on track and motivated...for my Mom...

Weekly Update

2009-11-06T08:59:00.003-05:00

My goal this week has been to journal and stay OP with my Weight Watchers points. Well guess what... that's exactly what I've been doing! It feels good...really good. I love feeling in control, and more importantly I know I'm going to love that number on the scale come Tuesday...I just KNOW it!

So okay...I snuck on the scale this morning (yes, I finally got it back in it's rightful place...home) and I LOVED it. I don't think I've loved my scale in quite some time.... so it was a good feeling. I did it in hopes I would love it, and then making myself work even that much harder this weekend to stay on track and be successful so that come Tuesday I will loving it even more!!! That is my goal, that is my goal.

The goal for the weekend.... hmmmm....well, of course journal and stay within my pts., plus I'm going to really try hard and get some sort of exercise in. This will of course depend on if I'm feeling up to par...but I'm hoping I will be!

Don't worry friends...next week I'll be back to my old self, no more sickies, exercising again and determined!!!!

Weigh In ... or not.

2009-11-04T14:08:00.002-05:00

Last week I was mia because my littlest one was sicky with a horrid ear infection. Well, wouldn't you know that on Saturday morning I awoke to my throat hurting. Took some meds, lounged around...ate a good lunch...and then a few hours later I knew I was sick. I still managed to take the kiddos out trick or treating with the Hunney...but I was miserable by the time we stopped and waiting in the drive thru of McD's (which I ate NOTHING). On Sunday I was no better and knew I had strep throat, so on Monday morning I called the Drs office (7am!). They got me an appt at 8:30, so I was thrilled. It was funny though...because the receptionist said "have you been seeing another Dr?", ummm no, I just don't get sick that often. :) They tested me for flu and strep. As I was lying on the Dr table, which felt like my death bed, I worried that they would come back and tell me I had H1N1! I even had to wear one of those masks to protect everyone in the office...I wanted to be sure if I did have it, I didn't want to anyone else to get it from me. Anyway, no flu (whew), but positive strep throat. They gave me an IV with meds right there and I'm on my way to feeling better.

The funny thing though is that Tuesday as we all know is weigh day. And I was kind of looking forward to it. I felt I did pretty good all week long...so I wanted to see how good it was. But, wouldn't you know, I left my scale at work (we have a competition going on) and couldn't weigh!!!! So no weigh in this week. Here's to hoping next week is REALLY good!!!!

Here I am, still at home and trying to get better. I do feel alot better, but today I needed to get fully rested. That's what I'm doing.

GAG Week 9 Challenge - answering question # 2

2009-10-30T15:41:00.003-04:00

So, we're asked to write a post about a few things. My first one here is going to be about my biggest fear. I admit, I have plenty of fears, most of them having to do with my family and boys. But my biggest "life/weightloss" fear is that I will never get to goal. I fear that because look...I've been at this journey off and on again for so many years. WHY oh why does it have to be so hard. I'm not trying to do quick fixes, or magic pills...I've been doing it the hard way. Yeah, I may take a "sabbatical" here and there, but come ON!!! It's been very frustrating, and well I'm the only one to blame.

SO, I say that I fear most NEVER reaching that goal. I never stop trying though... I want to BEAT that fear!!!!!!!!!!!!

A whole week, and a recipe!

2009-10-30T15:04:00.005-04:00

Wow, I can't believe it's been a whole week since I posted a blog! I have a valid excuse though...I've been at home dealing with a sick little one all week long! Seriously! Fortunately the little one is finally feeling better - fever free for 2 days now - and is back at daycare! Whew!

First and foremost, last Saturday's plan was a flop. I didn't get to go to the Cardio Kickboxing class! Grrr.... But I have a plan this Saturday to meet up with a new friend and buddy up some exercise at the Y. I like the idea of a Saturday buddy, but not crazy about the $3 or $4 expense every Saturday. Hmmm... Anyway, for now it's okay.

Secondly, I lost 1lb at weigh in on Tuesday. Hey, I'll take it...because I probably didn't deserve it. But I hope it sticks with me and doesn't end up biting me in the butt come next weigh in!!!

Thirdly, I have NOT journaled all week long nor have a I exercised! GULP! That means today is the day to get back on track and really stick with my goals. One of those goals being that I really need to work on my Holiday Plan some more. I've generally been working on it...but obviously NOT enough!!!

I'm disappointed that I have all these good intentions, and then I can't even get through a whole stinking week of following through. What is up with that? What is up with ME?!!! A year ago I was literally rocking. SO, I'm trying to figure myself out and get this show on the road. What do I want more....that's what I HAVE to keep asking myself.

So, the GAG week 9 challenge is to try a new recipe. We get points for doing so, and if we use a new ingredients we've never tried before, take pictures of it , and share nutritional info we get points! How exciting eh?!! Well last night I tried something new - kind of just whipped it together. I had a few friends telling me how they make it...so I kind of just went off of that. The boys and I liked it...Hunney, well he didn't get to try it since I KNEW he wouldn't like it (frozen pizza night for him). So, here ya go!

1.5 cup(s) Green Peppers strips (bell peppers)
1 cup red Peppers, sweet
1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
1 cup sliced Onions
Old El Paso Fajita Seasoning Mix, 2 tsp (I just used a TINY bit out of a packet, and next time probably would omit and use my own seasonings)
6 La Tortilla Factory High Fiber-Low Carb Whole Wheat Tortilla
1 can Black beans
2/3 cup Colby & Monterey Jack Shredded Cheese
3 Tbsp Daisy Light Sour Cream

Heat oil in skillet. Add peppers and onions and saute until soft, remove from skillet. Add chicken to skillet (I sprayed a little canola spray in the skillet). Cook chicken until done. Add fajita seasoning with a little water. Cook until thickens slightly. Return peppers and onions and warm. Fill tortilla shell with mixture, add 1/2 Tbsp, cheese, and beans. YUM!
*I actually ate the beans on the side - just my thing, as I always have to have a "side" with a meal...weird I know.

Serves 6

Fabulous Friday!

2009-10-23T16:22:00.002-04:00

Really...a shortie this time! Just wanted to update a few things!

I did not do anything new for exercise yesterday. That does NOT mean I didn't exercise, as I did 45 minutes of Step class! Yay! My thighs are feeling it!
I think I'm starting to get a cold...I have a headache, my nose is clogged like, and in the evenings my throat feels "different". I'm fighting it though...hard! Especially since we are planning to go to the pumpkin patch tomorrow!
I read something last night in my Prevention magazine that is sticking with me. It was a success story of a woman that lost 1/2 of her body weight...amazing story. Anyway, one of her quotes was "you won't regret what you don't eat". OMG I LOVE that!!!!!!!

So really, that's it today! I have a busy weekend planned, but the main key is that I'm sticking OP (today will be day 4 people!) and getting some exercise in! Tonight my plan is to do a new version of the tabata's using a different work to rest ratio - since I didn't get to it last night! And hoping I can make the new Cardio Kickboxing class at the Y in the morning!!!

Two days and a bike ride!

2009-10-22T14:56:00.008-04:00

Woohooo...I officially have a "streak" going on here! I have completed 2 successful OP day! Yay Mandie! That's how ya do it! And you know what, today is going to be exactly the same! *remember girl how this feels....AWESOME*

Last night Hunney and I played in a big pile of leaves with the boys. It was a total blast!!!! I got tons of cute pictures...and really the boys had the best of time! Then I said "who wants to go on a bike ride?!". They were soooo excited! Hunney put the little one's seat on his bike, and my big boy rode his bike. This was MUCH MORE of a chore than I anticipated. He was so slow, and I was so worried about him going out in the road, and then he'd go slow again...ugh! Needless to say it wasn't quite the intensity of a workout that I needed...but it was still a fun family activity!

That meant I had to do MORE working out. And that I did. I used a Workout Mus e and did my first real round of tabatas! (how's that for NEW?!) GULP! I was sweating up a storm! It was great, because I just did it in the living room while Hunney watched tv! I kicked BUTT! After that I did my 10 min resistance superset workout! WOOHOO!

I'll probably do some more tabatas tonight, but at a different ratio. Last night I did 30:90, and that wasn't quite "hard" enough. Tonight I think I'll try 60:60, and I'm going to use different exercises. Last nights exercises went like this : Jumping rope, jumping jacks, squats, lunges, mountain climbers, jumping rope, jumping jacks, squats, squat thrust/burpee, mountain climbers. After each exercise though there was a 90 second rest... so I had PLENTY Of time to catch my breath. Tonight...something even more challenging! Wish me luck!!!

Oh, and please note that my journals are posted to the side from now on in the "Follow My Progress" area. I figured that should be in a separate blog...so it is!

Okay, some pictures from our "leisurely" bike ride yesterday evening!

He was throwing a fit because his little brother had on the helmet HE wanted to wear!

Hunney and the little one

A beautiful church we passed on our ride

My guys

Mommy and the little one

He got tired of pedaling...Daddy had to help!

Me - riding my bike

Yes, we went into the cemetery (no traffic, I had to worry less!)

Coming out of the cemetery

And a GORGEOUS tree!!

One Day

2009-10-21T15:51:00.003-04:00

That's right folks, one full day of being OP and feeling awesome about it. I know you've probably seen a few of these posts from me...but I have to shout it out. That way if I happen to lose it again, I can search and find THIS post.

Notes to self : Mandie...you feel AWESOME being in control like this. You ate the right foods yesterday, and did not once feel like caving because you were satisfied! Yeah, that's right...satisfied!!! The lunch time run was the mid day energy burst you needed...as well as those heart pumping exercises during the Biggest Loser commercials. REMEMBER how good this feels. I'm "bottling" this up for you to use at a later time. The motivation is very thick in here now...so I'm totally saving it!!! YOU CAN DO THIS!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay...got that out. So today I've been trying to think of what I can do "differently" with my exercise and it dawned on me...a bike ride with the kiddos! OOOH what fun!!! The temps are wonderful, and the colors of the leaves are WOW! Totally gonna ask Hunney to put the seat back on my bike for the little guy and get to pedaling!!

*Side note...test results back from Drs office with my cholesterol and thyroid - all good. No more trying to blame my lack of weightloss to the stupid thyroid. Phooey...it IS just me. Well, now I know and can grasp this with both hands!!!

Weekly Weigh In

2009-10-20T14:17:00.002-04:00

Hmmm...where do I start? Okay...first off, I had a pretty good week. Not 100%, but pretty good. I lacked some exercise here and there, and honestly, didn't journal on the weekend (even though I felt I did REALLY good), and then there was my family reunion on Sunday, which well....ugh....that was hard. The hard part wasn't the "real" food, but the darn sweets! It's not something I typically have in the house, so when my boys asked for a cupcake, that meant I had to go up to that TABLE of goodies. I caved. Literally. I had almost a piece of everything! GULP! And unfortunately several of those damn persimmon pudding cookies! OUCH!

I didn't want to ruin all my hard work for the week with ONE lousy meal...so I wanted Monday to kick butt. I plan month menus to help stay on track, so I knew I could do it. Then side entrance Hunney, the PICKY eater of the family, the one who REFUSES to go out to eat and spend money on food like that - yes, he feels he doesn't get $10+ worth of food when we go out to eat, thanks to him being soooo stinking picky - he calls me at work, 4:00pm mind you, to ask if we should GO OUT to eat tonight. I believe I drop dead on the floor. "Mandie...are you there?". "uh...yeah, I'm here...OK...what do you want?!!!!!!". At this point I'm so excited, no cooking and clean up for me, eating OUT...oh my goodness what a flippin treat!!!! He says 2 scary words..."Olive Garden". My heart almost stops. The handful of times I've been to the OG I have only tried one thing...pathetic I know. But like I said, we NEVER go out to eat. So I instantly know what I'm going to have to get...the worst thing on the menu...the 1400 calorie dinner not including salad and breadsticks. I remember...weigh in tomorrow morning... ugh. But this day only comes once in a blue moon...so I cave. Why didn't I just order something HEALTHIER from the menu? I don't know...because I didn't have time to prepare?? Because I WANTED to indulge in that wonderful dish that I get very rarely....because it's a happy meal. Yea, it was wonderful...but I hated myself afterwards. The good thing is we went to Walmart and walked around for an hour grocery shopping and such. But it doesn't make up the 1400+ dinner I just swallowed. Yes, that's over my daily calorie LIMIT. Do you see the tears streaming down my face now?

The worst part...when Hunney knows how unhappy I am with the decision I made and says "well, you're going to have to determine what you want more Mandie. Staying where you're at, or losing the weight". Hmmm...really?! Are you sure? Because I'm not getting that dear!!! Somehow in the process of having our home flooded in June 2008, having to MOVE IN with my PARENTS, demolishing the old house and rebuilding...oh and let's include having to live with my parents and their family for 10 LONG months....and finally moving into our new home ...I've REGAINED...yes REGAINED 20'ish lbs, and honestly I'm STUCK. I can NOT get past this, and they won't budge. So remind me...you're just saying I have to decide WHAT I want more? Hmmm....okay, that's easy!

If only it were. Clearly I can see what I want...I can remember what it was like to be 16.4 lbs lighter (yes, I've lost a FEW from the 20)...and I want to taste that again, and move down even more. So why why why am I literally stuck here? UGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have worked on goals, I'm meal planning, I'm journaling, I'm exercising (okay, not NEAR as much as I should, or was), but somewhere I must be lying to myself or something...because I'm STUCK.

Weigh in this morning.... 172.4 - a big fat maintain. I suppose I'm lucky for that, after that disgusting meal last night, and the craziness I went on those sweets on Sunday. So I'll smile and try again. It's all I can do, right?

Sigh...literally. At least the GAG challenge should be really challenging me this week. We get extra points for doing some new kind of exercise. That'll spice and shake things up a bit I suppose.

And that's what I did today during my lunch hour. After a couple of weeks of bbbrrrrrrr, cold, weather, it's warmed up a bit. So my workout bud and I went to a nearby park and ran ... drumroll.....OUTSIDE! Oh my goodness, with hills and everything! It was tough, but it was "easier". Running on the track in the gym, or even the treadmill literally wear me out. It's sooo boring. This though physically harder was much more pleasant and ...easier?! I loved it, and look forward to giving it another whirl.

This week I'm aiming for 500 extra exercise points for shaking things up. Hey, I just made a goal for myself. Maybe doing that will help get me refocused and get this weight moving a bit more. Not sure WHAT those differences are going to be...but I'm definitely going to try!!! Shoot, I may be able to get 700 points! Maybe I'll do a video, or take some pictures, but for sure I should be blogging about them!

Another change ... I'm going to stop counting calories. I know...don't faint, or start freaking out on me. If you've been looking at my journals, you'll see I count calories along with WW points. I'm going to just focus on WW points...for 1 month. Starting TODAY. It's worked sooo well for me in the past, I'm praying it will help me again.

One more spark ... I've slacked seriously on my Hundred(s) Challenges, and today I'm starting them again (well week 2 anyway) . I can do these during the Biggest Loser commercials tonight, so I have NO excuse.

I'm going to measure myself and quit focusing JUST on the scale. Maybe I'm stuck on that. I know when I was measuring myself last year (once/month), seeing inches lost was exciting. Not sure why I stopped?

Okay...I think that's enough for now ... you know how my ramblings get. Crazy confusion!

Typical rambling post

2009-10-16T13:39:00.012-04:00

Wow...can you believe it's Friday, AND that this month is halfway over?! I'm having a hard time grasping that! It means the year end is approaching, and much faster than I realize. I want to hit my upcoming goals, so that means I really need to put it in gear and hang on. Yes, it's going to be tough with Halloween candy, my birthday (my Mom will make me a special cake just so I can stay on track), my FAVORITE holiday - Thanksgiving, along with a work pitch in breakfast, and then of course Christmas and the parties that come along with that. Ugh. Yeah, it's going to be hard...BUT, I can do this!!!! I read something yesterday (or maybe it was the day before), that stuck with me and I keep remembering. "To get something you never had, you have to do something you have never done"... Wow! When I think hard about that I KNOW that is true. It's the exact reason I plateaued last year, and then why I got so frustrated and eventually went the other direction and regained 20lbs. Now I have that phrase to remember...and it will clear things up in my head! :) Whew! I MUST do this!

So, I'm truly in a different mind set this week. Something is clicking, and I feel relief to finally be there again. Yes, I wasted a few (10) months this year...but the important part is that I never gave up and I'm still going. This time I'm going to finish!!! I FEEL it!

This weekend dh will be racing...so that leaves me and the boys. It should be fun...we will for sure get lots of dancing in! We have my family reunion on Sunday, and my goal is to take the backpack carrier and put my little guy in it and take a nice hike! I'm hoping the 4 year old can "hack" it and walk! There will be awesome food at the reunion, but I'm going to do ok...I know I can! Besides that, nothing really going on this weekend! I like that...means it's easier for me to stay on track!

Forgive me with my journals. I keep saying I'm going to get pics and post them...but then forget... so NOW I'm going to post Tue,Wed,Thurs from this week. I don't want to go back any further since my weeks start on Tuesday. So let me do some explaining. This week I decided to start a points system up of my own. Where I get points for water, journaling, exercise, steps, calories, etc. My goal is 70/week. Maybe eventually I'll put the way my points works on the side...but I dont' have the desire to do so now. That sounds bad...sorry. I somewhat got the idea from the GAG challenge. We did points last week, and I think that seemed to really help me stay on track. I also want to say that a blog I read, Christine, does something very similar too, and I REALLY liked how she did it. So, that's where I came up with my own (hope that's okay!). Oh, and you'll see lots of acronyms... here's a little key

DP = daily points - this has to do with my own point system

But these go along with WW. Remember I count calories and pts (because that has what worked for me the best int he past).
APE = Activity Points Earned
APU = Activity Points Used
FPU = Flex Points Used
FPR = Flex Points Remaining

okay...enough rambling

Tuesday 10/13

Wed 10/14

Thurs 10/15

And a picture of my special birthday cake from last year! YUM!

Wanna win some Vitatops?!

2009-10-15T11:04:00.004-04:00

Oh yeah baby...these are some of my FAVORITE snacks around! And now you can WIN some... just head on over to the blog "Watch My Butt Shrink"! WOOHOO!!!!!

Weekly Weigh In

2009-10-13T15:07:00.003-04:00

I'm down 2lbs this week! WOOHOO! I'm happy about that, it should help me stay on track. I tried to stay moving all weekend...dancing with the kiddos, Tae-Bo, resistance training and even a 3 mile run around town! Between that and eating A LOT better, drinking my h20 AND journaling help contribute to my 2lb loss this week, and I KNOW it! :) Very happy about it.

I was not online yesterday because my nephew J had his surgery and I was at the hospital all day with my Mom and J. He did very well, and now the long recovery starts. The hospital is not allowing visitors now because of the threat of H1N1, so it doesn't look like I'll be able to visit my Mom and J anymore. They will be able to come home probably Sunday or Monday. A long time....

I said I'd get my journals posted today...but I just don't have time. Hopefully tomorrow!! Sorry!

My Mom....

2009-10-11T17:08:00.004-04:00

So it looks like little J is going to have to have surgery tomorrow. Poor thing. I'll be heading up to the hospital after I get my little guys off to school and daycare and my workout for the day in. It'll be a long day, but I'm taking my Mom some groceries, so we can eat "good" and skip out on the cafeteria.

Today I've spent the day doing laundry, cleaning my fridge, micro, the catch-all room (my step sons room every other weekend), and at the store. I'm wore out, yet I still need to get a run in later, when the boys are in bed. I just can't keep my mind off my Mom, and all that she is doing for J. She's missing weeks of work to take care a child that is NOT hers...and honestly, one that isn't even that close to her, not like my kids are. She's awesome, and I love her so much. Thank you Mom for doing all and being the best Mom and Mamaw ever.

Well, I have a few things I want to get finished....so off I go. Oh, and it looks like I won't be getting my journals up on Monday since I'll be at the hospital...I'll have to do that Tuesday...

Sunny Saturday

2009-10-10T16:56:00.003-04:00

After several days of rain, the sun finally peaks out today!! It's gorgeous...and it's spreading to our moods. The kids and I cleaned the house, okay...I cleaned the house, but they gave it a shot. My oldest even put up toys - after he cried about it for 5 mins. They helped dust and sweep...and have been on their best behavior. Yeah, the sun is definitely contributing to that.

Yesterday I went to the hospital to visit my nephew and Mom. My Mom and I ate lunch, while J napped. Oooh how I love hospital cafeteria food...or even McD's, but we chose a place that served wraps. Oh my was it ever good. I had a veggie that was on a sundried tomato wrap. It was LOADED with veggies, a bit of couscous, feta and tampada. It was awesome! The best part...I stayed on track!!! It was a nice visit...but I feel for my Mom. She's there alone with J ... and though she has her laptop and knitting, hospital days are years. I'll go up again tomorrow, and maybe this time take her some food, eating out gets old...even if you love it.

Well, I should get on with my workout....I wasn't able to workout yesterday, so I REALLY need it today!! Move more Mandie :) I'll post my weekend journals on Monday.

TGIF!

2009-10-09T09:59:00.002-04:00

Wooohooo! It's Friday friends! I'm excited too. I don't really have anything to be excited about though. Maybe that's why...means I'm not stressing about how I'm going to stay on plan for the weekend. This should be simple. And I like that. I have the meals planned out for the weekend and I will be working out and getting my steps IN! :)

Anyway, this is a fly by post since I have much to do!!!

Thursday Oct 8 Journal

Thinking Thursday

2009-10-08T14:47:00.003-04:00

I have a lot going on in my life right now. Seriously, from one angle to the last A LOT on my plate...and though I feel overwhelmed with it all, I feel I'm back on track to finding me again. I think if I take the time to focus on me, I will be fine. I worked on my weightloss goals, reasons, steps, obstacles, solutions, rewards and timeline yesterday....and having that will help me with the rest of this journey!

My coworker tells me that I am being tested with all that is going on in my life right now... and she says "stop to think about what it could be teaching me". Even though it's lots of negatives, there will bloom a positive. I'm trying to find that right now. I think it's that I don't cave. Yes, I have a lot on my plate between a severely burned baby nephew, a water/mold problem in my brand new home, a naughty cat that is pushing my buttons, finances (don't we all know about this one!), and other issues here and there - I'm just blah! But I'm not caving. I'm going to make a positive out of this. The positive is that I'm going to stick it out, and I'm going to see a loss on Tuesday!

The best news? The weekend should be much more successful. I have a Longaberger party on Saturday, but I'm making healthy treats, and I'll go racing after that. But I'm determined to get in my steps, drink my water and stay on plan!!!! I think I'm fairly excited for this weekend and not having to worry about going here and being tempted by this or that. I can make it!

Wednesday 10/7/09 Journal

GAG Week 6 Challenge

2009-10-07T11:02:00.006-04:00

This weeks challenge is a PERFECT one for me. I actually like the ideas of getting points for doing things, and seem to do fairly well with it! So....I should succeed and get me back on the RIGHT track! It will be easiest for me to track it here, since there is SO much to do! :)

Water – 15 pts per 8 ozs
Supplements – 10 pts per day
Stay OP – 25 pts per day
Exercise – 25 pts per 30 mins
Sleep: 6 hours = 10 pts
7 hours = 15 pts
8 hours = 20 pts
Blog – 25 pts per day
Team Support = 50 pts (check in with them two times this week!!)
Holiday Prep = 50 pts
Do Something for YOU = 50 pts

Tuesday - 205 pts total
Water 150 pts
Supplements 10 pts
Stay OP 25 pts
Exercise 0 pts
Sleep 20 pts
Blog 0 pts

Wednesday - 316 pts total
Water 216 pts
Supplements 10 pts
Stay OP 25 pts
Exercise 25 pts
Sleep 15 pts
Blog 25 pts

Thursday - 446pts
Water 291 pts
Supplements 10 pts
Stay OP 25 pts
Exercise 25 pts
Sleep 20 pts
Blog 25 pts
Team Support 50pts

Friday - 230 pts
Water 150 pts
Supplements 10 pts
Stay OP 25 pts
Exercise 0 pts
Sleep 20 pts
Blog 25 pts

Saturday - 368 pts
Water 188 pts
Supplements 10pts
Stay OP 25 pts
Exercise 50 pts
Sleep 20 pts
Blog 25 pts
Something for YOU 50 pts

Sunday - 305 pts
Water 150 pts
Supplements 10 pts
Stay OP 25 pts
Exercise 25 pts
Sleep 20 pts
Blog 25 pts
Holiday Prep 50 pts (yay I got presents wrapped and my wrapping paper all sorted and ready!)

Monday - 190 pts
Water 135 pts
Supplements 10 pts
Stay OP 25 pts
Exercise 0 pts
Sleep 20 pts
Blog 0 pts

TOTAL WEEKLY POINTS ~ 2060

Weekly Weigh In

2009-10-07T10:52:00.005-04:00

My internet went down yesterday as I was typing my blog...so I couldn't report in my nasty horrible bad weigh in. I gained 1.4. Yeah, disappointed in myself. But know what caused it. Several higher calorie days too close to weigh in. Not only am I disappointed with THIS weigh in, but the way I've been going about this. I have been sitting still now for too long, even though in my mind I feel like I've been trying. Deep down I have NOT.

So yesterday I must also note that I splurged...thanks to being so mad at myself. I suppose it could have been A LOT worse...but seriously Mandie, not what you're supposed to do. Today is better!

Here's my journals

Monday Oct 5

Tuesday Oct 6

Journals

2009-10-05T15:20:00.003-04:00

That's basically all I have time for today. The weekend was fun, and I splurged maybe a little too much on Saturday...but I believe it was still a successful weekend :) Anyway, I really only have time to post my journals...tomorrow I weigh in and REALLY hope the scale is my friend!

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Finally Friday!

2009-10-02T14:50:00.003-04:00

That's right my little chick-a-dees it's....FRIDAY!!!! I've got a good busy weekend planned out of town with my 2 little ones...for my girlfriends wedding reception, should be a blast. I'm confident in succeeding this weekend even with being out of town. I know that I am WORTH this...and I CAN do it!

I want to admit that I did NOT want to go workout today at lunch. You know what I wanted to do instead? Eat....yeah, and not just what I brought/planned....but something terribly good and fattening and derailing....Qdoba. But I have the best coworker in the world, and she PUSHED me to go workout with her. Whew. Thank you D! She's my rock...because if I would have caved to my cravings, that would have only set me up for ... gulp ...disaster already for the weekend, and we all know I don't want that! SO...I went and ran 2 miles and then did my 15 min FYM supersets...KILLER 15 mins I want to add there!!!

I now feel even more confident I can do this. I'm taking a veggie tray to the reception, so I can fill up on those! WOOHOO! And I've got my workout clothes packed...just in case I can squeeze in a few moments of jumping jacks. etc. MOVE MORE MANDIE!!! Gotta remember my weekly goal of 10,000 steps on the weekend...so I've gotta be moving!!

Hope all my fellow GAG'ers have a successful and fantastic weekend!! I DOUBT I'll be online this weekend, and that stinks, because I'll miss out of some points, but it'll be okay.

October 1st Journal

A quickie today...

2009-10-01T14:45:00.006-04:00

Wow...October 1st...already??? I've got goals to create...I've been slacking in this dept. So hopefully this evening I'll be able to make the time to work on that!!! If I do, tomorrow I'll be posting them! The weekly goals I set up on Monday...well, I've been doing awesome with them! Yay Mandie!!

This has to be quick today folks....I'm super swamped at work. I wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone that has been posting on my blog lately...and WOW! Some people even said my enthusiasm with my workouts has MOTIVATED THEM!?! I'm super excited about that...and honestly, flattered. Thanks girls!!! I'm sure in the future (near) I'm going to need that motivation myself and will come looking to you all! So get on it!! K?!

Today I'm really refueled and on fire. I'm finally on a new/old level. I say new/old...because it's new now...but it is old...because I've been here before, and not too long ago. I'm making the RIGHT choices, and the exercising is through the roof again. I'm excited. I also admit I'm a little nervous. The weekends are what ruin a fantastic week for me...and look where we are, headed for a weekend. Who would've thought I'd be saying I'm "dreading" the weekend?! Ugh! This weekend the boys and I are headed out of town. My friend that married in Vegas (last month!) is having her reception. We will be staying at her house. There will be a keg of beer. There will be a ton of GOOD food. I know how it will turn out. I'm WORRIED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There is no way, no how, I'm going to get around this. I know ... deep down that I will have a few drinks when the boys hit the hay...and I will eat things that are high in calories. I suppose the key is a) eat SMALL amounts. b) MOVE MORE. I'm going to take my weights, I'm going to take instant oatmeal, I'm going to take some apples and bananas, I'm going to take my water bottle, I'm going to take my journal....I'm going to try. Again. That's all I can do, right???? MOVE MORE MOVE MORE MOVE MORE MOVE MORE..... If I want to succeed, I must make this a priority. LIMITATIONS....I have to remind myself of that, ALL weekend long. I can do this....I want a good weigh in...I REALLY want to get back to my low weight.... I can do this....

Oh, hubby's "stuff" casserole last night was horribly awesome. I say horribly because I could've ate until I got sick! Seriously! I had 1.5 servings (.5 more than I anticipated/planned), but it's okay. I worked out later,...and it didn't derail me! Plus it was SUPER NICE to have someone else make dinner! YUMMY HUBBY!!!

Well, work calls....(and I noticed this really wasn't all that short! Just call me a chatty!)

Journal 9/30/09

Ouch...I like that!

2009-09-30T14:37:00.003-04:00

Oh yeah...I'm sore today! Yippie! Loving that feeling...I know, it's nutty...but it's AWESOME! You know what it means? It means I WORKED MUSCLES! It means I'm on the road to getting back to where I was a few short months ago. For those that don't know...I was an exercise FREAK! I loved it...to the max. Then something happened - um, and I really don't know what? - and that person slowly went disappearing. Sure, I would still exercise 3'ish days/week, but I wasn't getting anywhere. I wasn't pushing myself. I was just going through the motions. I wasn't losing weight, but gaining....and all the while I would say to myself "I don't know why...I'm working out". But yeah, just a little (after I had been going 6'ish days/week, running, weight lifting, etc)...and combine the drastic change in my workouts (or lack of) plus not eating the best, the pounds start to add up. Ugh! Slumps suck. But amazingly I'm digging my way out, and it feels good. Today I've already ran 2.6 miles at lunch (WOOHOO!) using c25k W5D2. I've done c25k before, and have ran several 5k's, but it had been awhile since I ran, so I started the program again. When I get home this evening I'll do my Hundred(s) Challenges as well as my fat burning workout, for a total of 30 more mins to add..... Yeah, I'm finally on my way again! And LOVING the way my body is feeling!

Last night, I made the family enchiladas. YUM! I make mine special, since I watch what I eat. I want to get the most bang for my buck I suppose. So anyway, here comes hubby in the kitchen to what...GULP....help?!!!! Are you kidding me?! WOWZA! This never ever happens...so it was nice. I thanked him several times. He's VERY picky, so it's really a blessing to have him help in any way in the kitchen. Oh and get this...tonight he's making a casserole he had as a kid that he LOVES (this guy does NOT like my dinner "experiments", and very rarely any casserole I make). So it'll be a nice change. It's not very diet friendly for me...it's totally full of carbs, cheese and FAT...but I'll eat my serving and a big salad to go along with it.

The best news all day...I'm the Top weekly loser for my team (Team Dancer)! WOOHOO me!!!! I can't believe it, plus I get an additional 100pts for it!! How exciting eh?!!! Here's to trying it again for next week!!!!

My journal for yesterday (Tuesday 9/29)

Weekly Weigh In

2009-09-29T14:14:00.005-04:00

I can't believe yet another week has gone by for this challenge...wow! It's going fast, and my weightloss is going SLOW SLOW SLOW. But, I'm happy to report a 1.2lb loss this week! Hey, I'll definitely take it! Now, if I can just continue to get ones like that, I'll be HAPPY.

Yesterday I wanted to try and FLUSH out as much of the weekend as possible. Eating my homemade, low calorie soup, drinking gobs of water, and staying away from sugar and too many carbs. Well, I stuck with my plan, but what I wanted to happen...didn't. ARGH! I even drank some Metamucil and worked out hard at home for 30 mins. Nope...I'm still sitting here pretty miserable. Hmmm...thinking I'll try an apple this evening!

I might have goofed though yesterday with my calories. I was WAY more under than I thought...and that isn't good for the body. But a few higher days, with a few lower days SHOULD keep my body guessing. I know I'll have more calories today, because I don't want the wrong thing to happen where my body is HOLDING ON. So...that'll be different today.

I also had a KICK BUTT workout at lunch today. I love working out at lunch...working out last night was TOUGH. Making myself do it for one thing, plus I went to bed right after...and it felt like it did no good. I know that's not the case, but you know how empowered I feel after an awesome lunch workout?! I didn't get that last night cuz I went to bed. Anyway, today I made up for it with 30 mins of spinning using Cardio Coach ; and then did some wogging - a total of 50 mins of interval training. Yay me :)

So here's to a kick butt week with eating and exercising!!! I'm feeling the power again!

Journal 9/28

Monday Monday

2009-09-28T12:56:00.004-04:00

Well, this weekend was totally uneventful and I realized I need MORE activity on the weekends...especially if I tend to eat a little more lax. So that's DEFINITELY my goal for the coming weekend. MORE activity!!!!!

I spent this weekend on the couch/recliner watching movies. Not just little movies...you know the 4 hour ones like Dances with Wolves, Wyatt Earp, ....and then yesterday on with The Rock, and Gone in 60 Seconds. Yes, I'm a sucker for Kevin Costner, Sean Connery and Nicholas Cage - these are my 3 all-time favorites!!! So I didn't do much except watch movies, played with the boys, fixed lunches and dinners, laundry here and there, and dishwashing. :) I don't get many of those...so I'll take it.

This also means I was at home being way too lax on my eating part....argh! Hopefully when tomorrow comes though it's still nice to me. Today I'm guzzling my water, and eating my homemade veggie soup and lots of produce to hopefully wash out some of the weekend! hehe! I'll also be sure to get in a good workout this evening. Couldn't go at lunch today because the Hunney called to say the step-son (whom lives in another county) was headed to our high school to play in a tennis match... so I'm heading out early to catch it. BUT that workout will come tonight!!!

I've decided to make some weekly goals.... here they are :)

Journal
Aim for 1300 calories (23 pts) / day
Exercise 30mins/day 5x/week
12,000 steps/day weekdays
10,000 steps/day on the weekend (MORE ACTIVITY ON WEEKEND)
Eliminate sugar
Start eliminating/saying no to more uneccesary carbs - since they are a trigger for me

I'm thinking these are REASONABLE...and should be a good way to get closer to goal!

Okay, so here's my ugly journal from the weekend!

Friday 9/25

Saturday 9/26

Sunday 9/27

Week 4 Challenge Survey

2009-09-25T15:18:00.005-04:00

Week 4 Challenge Survey

1. Do you feel your eating habits that ended you into this challenge are a direct result of habits formed during childhood? (Please explain)

Slightly. I mean I was always taught to clean my plate, because there were starving children in other countries. I was given my brother's leftovers too... And my Mom is the BEST cook ever. She's never had a weight problem, so she never focused on "healthy". It was just homecooked GOODNESS!!! I started dieting while I was a sophomore...and here I still am.

2. Tell me about your living situation. Are you married? Kids? In College? What is your life like OUTSIDE of weightloss?

I'm a 33 year old and I'm married for the 3rd time in my life to a great guy. I love him to pieces and I'm thankful every day for the man, husband, and father he is to our kids. We have 3 sons (Jabin 16 year old step son ; Brody 4 year old from a previous relationship ; Tucker 2 year old from my husband). Last June our home was flooded and the town made us demolish (the home was 90 years old and NEVER had been flooded before). We moved in with my parents basement for 10 LONG months while our road to recovery/rebuilding went on. It's been tough for us...but we're headed in the right direction. I work full time at Indiana University...I have been there for 12 years!!!! My husband drag races every weekend in the summer, and it is our life away from life! EVERYONE in the family loves it!!!

3. If you were given a magic wand that you could use one time to do one thing, what would you use it for?

Ugh!!! What a HARD question to answer!!! I have to come back to this one....wow. So now I'm back and I STILL am having a hard time with this question. I guess because there are personal things I'd like to fix, as well as family things. But since this survey is kind of about me...I'll use it as personal. I'll say I'd use it to have a breast reduction. My whole life I've been unhappy about that part of me...and I want it fixed!!! :)

4. What is your favorite thing about this time of year? Least favorite?

Favorite thing...the LEAVES falling!! Oh man they smell awesome and look gorgeous!!!

Least favorite...the winter approaching!! Ugh!

5. You have a day off, no responsibilities, so what will you do with it?

Sadly I'd be cleaning. Or out bargain shopping for the house! I'd LOVE to just be sitting at home watching TV on Lifetime all day thougho!!!

6. What is YOUR sin food?

Ha! Like I can pick just one. BUT, I'll have to say Mexican. I can LIVE on it!!! Potatoes are CLOSELY behind though... I like them any way you make them!!
7. Your in a foul mood, what lifts you out of it?

My boys. They can ALWAYS lift me out of that hole. They're so compassionate and try their hardest by letting me know they are there for me, even if it just means kisses!!!

8. Your in a good mood, what keeps you there?

My boys again! I love watching them grow up. They say the funniest things and make me smile from ear to ear!

9. What is one of your biggest struggles right now?

Finding time for ME...and knowing I'm worth that time. I go non-stop from the time I wake until I hit the hay...for the household. I literally do it all...and I feel so unappreciated.

10. Your motivation is running low, where do you find your refill?

Friends....WOW! The support I get from an online group of friends is phenominal! I couldn't do it without them! Old photos of the fat me!!! My all time highest was 233! I'm 60lbs lighter now...I feel like a NEW PERSON! So when I look at those fat pictures...wowowow...motivation kicks right back in!
11. Your in house support (meaning the people in your life that you see face to face) is beginning to dictate your weightloss journey by telling you your too heavy, or your getting too thin, but your not where you want to be. What do you do? How do you handle it?
I listen to their advice and seriously look at myself. AM I gaining weight? Maybe I am too thin? I re-evaluate my goals.

12. List me your favorite:
color: Purple smell: My husband's scent activity with your child: book reading every night Activity with your girlfriends/ guy buddies: talking and laughing until our sides hurt! way to relax: Ha! What's that? Reading a good book!

13. Where do you honestly see yourself at the end of this challenge?

I see myself hitting the goal I set. And back on fire like I once was not too many months ago. I see myself confident and proud!

14. What are your goals AFTER Gag?

Continue the journey to get to goal... using GAG as a stepping stone. I want to finally get to goal, and maintain it! I want my life permanetly changed...

15. How do you think GAG is going so far? What would you like to see done differently? (I must be asking for torture! LOL)
I love every bit of this challenge. It's truly what I've needed to get back in the swing of things! Nothing differently..it's just PERFECT! Thank you :)

16. Tell me all about your "typical" autumn weekend? Special activities that arise as well?

Racing is always in the mix of a weekend. Just vegging out with the boys is nice. We always have our family reunion in the fall, as well as a trip to the Pumpkin Patch, Covered Bridge Festival, 5K, etc. There is always MUCH to do on the weekends...so fall flies by FAST!

17. Is there one person in your life, who you hope your weightloss journey inspires?

My Dad. He needs to deseprately lose weight...but we all know how difficult it is. I want to inspire him to get on the bandwagon too. Not just half on, and half off...but ALL the way on! Maybe if I get to goal and he sees I can do it...he will too.

18. How did you find GAG, and what made you committ to join?

My good friend Heather told me about it. I REALLY needed something to get my going again...as I was in a biggest SLUMP of my life!!!

19. If you could nominate one BIGGEST INSPIRATION out of all your Team Gaggers, who would you nominate?

I'm still learning everyone and their journeys, since I'm BRAND new. But I would say that Sheila (YOU) have truly inspired me! WOW...look how far you've come, and look at what you've put together for us! WOWOWOW!

20. Please, tell me about you. What are your dreams? What are your desires for your life? What sparks the passion inside of you about your life? What goals do you have that seem impossible?
I just want my life to be happy. I've seen lots of unhappiness on this road of life...and I want for ONCE it all to go right. I'm tired of worrying about little things that though they matter...but realizing there is a BIGGER picture! I would love to further my education and DO something with myself. I sometimes feel so blah because I didn't finish college. I'm lucky to have the job I have...but I want more!!!! I would give anything to be a professional photographer...it's my true passion. And one day I will justify that expensive camera and work on this dream!!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And here's my journal from Thursday. I was under my calories...I'm not sure how that happened...but I suppose ONE day isn't bad :)

My rump is in a slump

2009-09-24T13:59:00.004-04:00

This should be like a thankful Thursday...or even a THIRSTY Thursday...but instead my "rump is in a slump". Ugh. I have so much going on in my mind right now that I'm getting dizzy from the circles. It all boils down to how much I HATE where I am right now. Really, I do. I feel like I'm going no where. I've lost this weight before...and here I am trying to lose it again. I can't help but wonder am I going to lose and regain for the rest of my life...and NEVER be happy? What am I doing wrong? HOW did I regain the weight? Maybe my workout isn't good enough? Maybe I'm cheating on my journals? Whatever the reason I just want to SCREAM!

It doesn't help that I feel "fat" today. I know you all have those days too...where you just FEEL "blah" and fat. Well that's me - TODAY. Maybe tomorrow I will feel better!

On a positive note I made myself go to Step class and sweated my heart out for 45 mins, and tonight I'll do the Hundred(s) Challenges. TRYING to put a smile on my face... because I know I can do this and I know what it takes....

So, here's my journal for yesterday!! Over by 149 calories - again pretty good and I'm happy with that.

Wacked out Wednesday!

2009-09-23T16:04:00.005-04:00

Biggest Loser was awesome last night. I love it... it really inspires me. I KNOW realistically I can never (nor anyone I know) lose as much weight as these people do, but I LOVE seeing them be able to do it. I realize I have a life and family...so burning 6000 is not feasible for me. I'm okay with that. These people NEED this change, they NEED this drastically...and look at them! Amazing progress already! WOOHOO!

Last night focused more on nutrition, and I LOVED that! Yes we all know that on the BL they get beat up by their workouts...but it's good to see that nutrition is important (MORE). I learned a lot, and honestly loved the little advertisements with Ziploc and the protein powder. I know for a fact I don't get enough protein in daily, UNLESS I use my powder, and I firmly believe it will HELP the weightloss.

Anyway...good show, and I look forward to next weeks episode. Oh, and I'd also like to note that even though I skipped out on the gym yesterday (ugh) I still made myself ACTIVE for the last 30 mins of BL. I walked, jogged, kicked, punched, and all sorts of other sweat producing moves all while watching TV! I was so sweaty I had to take a shower afterwards! Yay me!!!

Sooo, here's my journal picture from yesterday (Tuesday). Over by 56 cals. MUCH BETTER!

Weekly Weigh In

2009-09-22T09:25:00.008-04:00

I lost 0.2lb ...I lost...not much, but I did. Yeah, I'm disappointed, but I deserved it. The weekend was really out of the water when I figured all my calories up. I'm over it...over the week, and now I'm focusing on the new week. That's that. Not a happy camper today...BUT I will make up for it next week!!!!

What did I do last night to prepare for this week? I made a huge pot of veggie soup....and I did 30 mins of kick butt cardio circuit training with bands and weights. I also started my Hundred(s) Challenges over. I was supposed to do them over the weekend, but didn't...so I'm counting yesterday as Day 1 over!

Here's my journal from yesterday (Monday) and the ones from the weekend, to be honest with myself.... BEWARE, they aren't pretty...and it's amazing I had any loss at all!!!

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

After the storm...

2009-09-21T13:02:00.003-04:00

Well, I wish I could say I was completely 100% on track, but I slipped here and there. I still managed to get exercise (miles), and I'm happy about that. I'm also happy that I did try really hard. It could have been A LOT worse. I wish I could've been a little better...but I suppose every step is a lesson learned, and I'm still learning.

The weekend involved LOTS of down time at the drag strip, but my husband and I made the most of it by riding our bikes around checking out cars, doing funny little tricks (me mainly giggling at his), but mostly just keeping ourselves active (and awake for him). On Friday I marched my butt around a circle track so many times I literally got a blister on the bottom of my foot! I POWER walked 5 miles! WOOHOO me! On Saturday I couldn't walk because of the blister, so we rode our bikes and I got 5 miles (I had more...but some of it was too leisure to really count). Yesterday we walked up to the festival...which added to my mileage for the weekend (2 miles). All in all I feel I did really well!!!

Friday - 5 miles
Saturday - 5 miles
Sunday - 2 miles
TOTAL - 12 miles (3 miles short of my goal, but still - AWESOME in my eyes!)

This week I will do better, and I'm happy there isn't much planned for the weekend, should make it easier to stay on track a little better. I will say I'm still on track (OP) and happy that I'm still going strong!

Before the storm....

2009-09-17T14:28:00.006-04:00

Okay, it's NOT going to storm, I'm gonna be okay. I can pull this weekend off, I KNOW I can. I'm planned and ready to tackle it! I made some "healthy" banana bread last night for breakfasts...but then when I figured the calories I was kind of bummed it was still so high. Next time I'll tweak the recipe some more.

So yeah, my body is sore sore sore today! Abs, quads and chest ... all from Day 1 of the Hundred(s) challenges! GULP! I went to a step class today and she had us do squats, crunches and push ups and I thought 'NO WAY woman'. But I pushed myself and though it hurt like hell...I DID it!

Ready for my journal pic? Still on FIRE here which is going to help me stay on track this weekend so come Tuesday I will have a KICK BUTT number on the scale! Finally feeling I'm in the groove again!

Sept 16 Journal

Week 3?!

2009-09-16T16:11:00.004-04:00

Um, yeah, it's already week 3 of GAG! I still can't believe that. Wow. Now is the time to get my butt in gear too! And guess what, I'm headed that way! I've had 2 successful days, and I plan on MANY MANY more!

So today Mrs. Sheila announced Week 3 Challenge, and it's PERFECT for me considering my weekend planned. It is Annie's 365 mile challenge. She has challenged ALL of us to help her get a total of 365 miles over the weekend (18th - 20th). I'm committing myself to 15 miles. Yeah, that's A LOT...especially with a weekend at a drag strip...BUT I need this. I need to step it up a notch and get back into it! Woohooo!

My good friend Heather (anewheather) won for percentage of weight lost this week! WOOHOO girl! CONGRAT'S on that...but watch out, I'm gonna bust my rump to take that from you next week!!!

With me saying that, um yeah...I've GOT to stick on plan this weekend. I know, it's only Wednesday but if I don't start planning it now...I will FAIL! (remember "fail to plan, plan to fail" - it's ooooh so true!). So my plan is to take the grill. I'll be taking light hot dogs, polish sausages and even splurge on a brat. But I'll get the healthy buns, and possibly even eat one without a bun if I MUST have another! I'm going to saute some veggies up on the grill to add to it (so I can get full!). We'll have burgers (veggie for me), baked potatoes, and I'm even going to get/make a veggie tray. The Hunney likes certain RAW veggies, so I'll be sure to get the ones he likes. I'll also take a watermelon from my garden! YUM! Will only eat out once. And I must JOURNAL and drink my water. The hotel has a fitness center, so I SHOULD wake my happy butt up early and get something in....but I'm can't guarantee that. Oh, and I'll need to get in my Hundred(s) challenge workouts done. JUST IN CASE I have my good friends - on the same journey - numbers and will call them when I want to cave!!! Okay...so I have a plan!

Well, now for the fun/important stuff!!!

Day 1 Workout 1 Hundred(s) Challenge: Completed! I also did 20 mins on the Stepper.

and for all your eyes to see....yesterday's Journal ~ totally under my calorie goal by 4.5! WOWZA ME!!

Hundred(s) Challenges

2009-09-15T15:03:00.003-04:00

Ya'll ready for this... I have decided to try the Hundred(s) Challenges! GULP! I did my initial testing today at the gym (despite worrying about being embarrassed), and it wasn't TOO bad.

Here are my results ~

Two Hundred Situps (Crunches) - 50 (I probably would have done more if I just PUSHED a little harder)

Two Hundred Squats - 50 (whew...this got my heart beating and my legs burning!)

One Hundred Push ups - 16 (yeah, wimpy! But at least they are the "real" kind, and not girlie! yay me!)

The goal is to get these up to 200/100 in 6 weeks following the exercise plan provided. This should be a great workout!!!!!!

Weekly Weigh In

2009-09-15T10:56:00.003-04:00

If ya'll remember last week I was on vacation in VEGAS...yeah, Vegas. Though I had an awesome time I ate and drank crazy. I did walk a ton...but seriously, I didn't do great. Needless to say I was SHOCKED, stoked, happy, thrilled, excited and flabbergasted to see a loss today! I checked like 10 times (do ya'll do this too?) just to make sure. A NICE 3.2lb loss! Woohoo! Down to 174.4.

You know what a loss like that does for someone like me? It MOTIVATES my butt! Seriously! I'm on fire and so excited. I want to get out of the 170's like you wouldn't believe. I want to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight (which is also my lowest weight as an adult) of 156. I want it, I need it...I'm GOING to get it!!!!!

OH, and I'd like to add that I REALLY wanted Qdoba at lunch yesterday, I mean I could TASTE it....and was all set for that, but then talked myself out of it and went to Subway instead! YAY ME!!!

So...here's my journal for yesterday...MUCH better than it had been!

Vacation is OVER

2009-09-14T11:29:00.002-04:00

Thank goodness my Vegas vacation is over! I truly loved every minute of it...but totally hate seeing the pictures. Blah! It reminds me WHY I'm on this journey. My eating wasn't great, I didn't journal, actually I didn't do ANYTHING I had planned to do. I hate when I fail like that. And then when I got home I sulked about it...which is even worse.

Today is a new day though, and I'm ready!!!!!!!

GAG TEAM DANCER

2009-09-03T15:23:00.002-04:00

Just a shout out to to all my teammates! I look forward to getting to know you all and sharing tips, ideas, secrets, recipes, advice, laughter, even those tears I'm sure we'll get at some point....etc with each other!!!! I need all the support I can get!!

Just an FYI I will be out of the loop ALL next week, as I'll be in VEGAS!!!! :) I will try and get online before I leave (Tuesday morning) but no promises...and then I hope to check back in when I return on Friday morning :)

Anyway... can't wait to know more about ya'll!!!!

TEAM DANCER
Nancy
Teresalyn
Erin
Aliflowergrl
Vanessa
Mandie
Lucrecia