Oops! I Did it Again!

Hello!  I have been away for a while on this blog.  I can't believe the last time I wrote was November 2!  Geez.  I do feel kind of bad about that.  Sorry everyone. 

What happened?  Where did I go?  Well, lets just say I put myself at the bottom of my list again.  I completely quit tracking and working out.    Things just got so busy and I didn't have time for me anymore.  My house, kids and job desperately needed my attention.  I sort of ate healthy, but I know I made poor choices and overate.  I stopped drinking water and returned to coffee.  Stopped getting enough sleep and trudged through the day tired and cranky and eating to keep me awake.  I feel bad about it but I am not going to quit.  The important thing for me to realize is that I was aware of everything I was doing.  I didn't do it blindly.  I chose to do everything I wanted.  Was it good for me?  Probably not.  But I'm done with it for now.

Today I start a boot camp class with a friend of mine.  We do it Mondays and Wednesdays.  I still do hip hop and I definitely intend to run again.  It's just so cold out so I might have to get some different gear or hop on the treadmill to do my runs. 

I am worried about WI tomorrow though.  I missed WI last week because I was in Victoria and the week before there was no WI for Remembrance Day.  I know the scale will be going up, I just hope not too much. 

I am recommitting to this journey.  I need to make time for me.  I can't take care of anyone else unless I take care of myself first. 

Meh.........

That's how I have felt since last week.  I don't really care.  Tracking?  Doing it on and off.  Exercising?  Nada.  Making healthy choices?  Trying to.  Damn Halloween! 

I don't know what's wrong with me.  Feeling blagh.  Completely overwhelmed with work and my husband's new job.  He is never home anymore.  My workload has increased majorly.  I will not even have a full weekend off until Christmas!  And only because Christmas is on a Saturday.  I am completely exhausted everyday.  I need to get my a$$ back in gear. 

I WILL NOT ALLOW MYSELF TO FALL OFF!

I have been really struggling lately.   Just keep swimming, just keep swimming.................

Time..............

Today was my last class of yoga :(  I really enjoyed it.  Our instructor sent us away with a tip sheet and some ways to decrease stress.  I am going to miss that class.  At the beginning of each class we would have to pick a card with our eyes closed and focus on that during our sessions.  I thought it was very fitting that my card for the last class was titled time.  Take time for your life. 

It seems I never have enough time.  Time for my family, work, housework, organizing and me.  I really, really need to work on making time.  It seems like every minute of my day is full.  I'm going to try to work on that.  I need more time for my children and for me and I really need some time with my hubby.  We never have time for us.  I really miss it.

Food Journal October 26, 2010

• 1 - 12 grain bagel with light cream cheese - 6 points
• 1 banana - 2 points
• 1c Weight Watchers Vegetable Soup - 0 points
• 1c spinach salad w/ y.peppers. tomatoes, cucumbers & mushrooms w/ 1tbs of vinaigrette - 1 point
• 1 grilled cheese sandwich w/ Dempsters body wise bread - 5 points
• 1c skim milk - 2 points
• 1 Fibre Plus Bar - 3 points
• 1 sm. orange - 0 points
• 2 slices of Dempsters Body Wise toast w/ 2 tsp of becel and 1 tsp of sugar free strawberry jam - 3 points
• 2 egg omelet w/ spinach, mushrooms, y. peppers, tomatoes and 1/4c of low fat cheese - 5 points

Total Points = 28

Exercise

1.5 hours of yoga

What Happened?

Sorry for not posting over the weekend.  It was one of those lazy weekends.  I did some cleaning and shopping for groceries but mostly just relaxed.  Finished a book and stayed up way too late watching TV but it was worth it.

Yesterday was a really crappy day.  I was so tired from staying up too late that I just had a give up kinda day.  I tracked my food but made really unhealthy choices.  Let's just say I was 27 points over!  Yeah!  Shocking!  Damn you KFC and Ferroro Rocher! 

I really don't know what I was thinking.  I was tired and work is severely stressing me out and I just gave up yesterday.  Not an excuse I know.  I chose to buy the big box of chocolates when I could've just bought 3 (I did only eat three though because my teeth hurt so much) and I chose to get KFC instead of cooking something else.  I just didn't want to.  I wanted to be in my misery, eat my greasy treats and generally feel sorry for myself. 

Today is another day!  I almost considered not even tracking yesterday but I didn't want to lie to myself.  I couldn't believe it when I added up the KFC dinner.  31 points!  For supper!  Aaaarghhhh!  I was so mad at myself when I figured it out this morning!  I think I had a mini panic attack!  LOL!

It's OK though.  I messed up.  I made a mistake and the next time I feel like going crazy, I will think about this.  I may decide to have the KFC but I will pass on the chicken fries and the gravy and have a salad on the side.  I can do this!  It's all about real choices and being true to myself!

Also need to start exercising.  I said I would do so on the weekend but I did nothing!  I'm gonna do it today!  My hubby fixed our treadmill so that will be getting used more often too.  Time to get myself back on the wagon! 

Food Journal October 25. 2010

• 1/3c of oatmeal w/ tbs of maple syrup - 4 points
• 1 chicken breast - 3 points
• 1c steamed white rice - 4 points
• 1 piece of garlic toast - 5 points
• 3 Ferrero Rocher - 5 points
• 2 KFC chicken 1 breast and 1 wing - 11 points
• 7 chicken fries - 12 points
• 1c of french fries w/ gravy - 8 points
• 1 hot chocolate - 3 points

Total Points = 55

36/35 points used for weekly allowance! 

Exercise

Nada

Food Journal October 22

Just want to log in my journal today.  Super tired.  Long day.

Food Journal

• 1 1/4c of Strawberry All Bran w/ skim milk - 4 points
• 1c of steamed white rice - 4 points
• 1c clam chowder - 4 points
• 1 1/2 chicken breasts - 5 points
• 11 almonds - 2 points
• 1 Fibre Plus Bar - 3 points
• 1c ww linguine - 3 points
• 1/2c veg spag sauce - 2 points
• 15 cactus cut potatoes w/ dip - 5 points
• 1 Chai Tea Latte - 2 points

Total Points = 34 points
6/35 Weekly Points

Exercise

None - Rest Day

What Does Success Look or Feel Like to You?

That was the topic of our meeting today.  Many different answers.  Success to me is actually looking in the mirror.  I used to avoid mirrors at all costs!  I hated when I would see my reflection in a full body mirror.  I used to be surprised at how I looked.  I didn't think I looked that fat.  I sure didn't feel like how I looked.  Now when I look in a mirror I like what I see.  I'm not where I want to be yet but I know I will be soon.  So my question to you is, "What does success look or feel like to you?"

Weigh in was great and very surprising.  I lost 3 pounds last week, which brings my total pounds lost to 23.6!  Amazing!  I passed my 10% goal and now I get to pamper myself a bit.  Woohoo!  I also need to think what my next goal will be.  I will let you know.

Food Journal

• 2 scrambled eggs - 4 points
• 2 slices of Dempsters Body Wise toast with 2 tsp of becel and 1 tsp of sugar free strawberry jam - 3 points
• 1c of Campbell's Healthy Harvest Tomato Vegetable soup - 1 point
• 1/2 turkey sand on Dempsters Body Wise bread 1 tbs of no fat mayo - 4 points
• 1c salad with vinaigrette - 1 point
• 1c skim milk - 2 points
• 1c salad with lemon - 0 points
• 1 1/2 slice of trimmed pork loin - 3 points
• 1 c whole wheat spaghetti - 3 points
• 1/2c of low fat spaghetti sauce - 2 points
• 1 banana - 2 points
• 2 Astro zero yogurts - 1 point
• 1c of skim milk - 2 points

Total Points = 28

Exercise

1 hour of hip hop class - completely intense

Food Journal October 20, 2010

I went for my run!  It was raining but great.  I ran continuously for 3 minutes!  I feel great!

Food Journal

• 1 1/4c Strawberry All Bran Cereal w/ skim milk - 4 points
• 1 apple - 1 point
• 1c of salad w/ ch. tomatoes, cucumbers and vinaigrette - 1 point
• 1/2c brown rice - 2 points
• 1c cooked carrots - 1 point
• 1c cooked gr. peas - 2 points
• 1c skim milk - 2 points
• 1 Fibre Plus Bar - 3 points
• 1 banana - 2 points
• 2 egg white omelet w/ spinach, yel. peppers and 1/4c of low fat cheese - 3 points
• 1 orange - 1 point
• 1c skim milk - 2 points
• 2 pieces of Dempsters Body Wise toast with 2 tsp of becel and sugar free strawberry jam - 4 points

Total Points = 28

Exercise

W3D1 of C25K challenge - 30 minutes

Interruptions..................

First of all, sorry for not posting yesterday!  Crazy day.  Let me tell you about it.  All was fine until I got a call from my sister.  Her and her boyfriend had gone out of town on Friday and spent the night in a hotel.  The next day she went to go and checkout and get her security deposit back.  Instead what happened was they had charged her for another night and security deposit.  She realized this when she got home.  (they were 2.5 hours away from the hotel)  She then called the hotel and they told her they would just put in back in her account.  So she waited and waited.  On Tuesday, she called me because the money was still not there.  I told her they can't just put it back in your account, they need your debit card for that! 

She was really upset (understandable) and now their vehicle wasn't working and she would not be able to get back to get her money back soon.  (she has 2 kids and really needed the money) She asked if she could borrow my van but she does not have her license and my mom's driving record is not great and has caused plenty of rows between me and my husband when I lend my mom the vehicle. 

I was really stuck in a rock and a hard place.  If I told my mom no she would be mad at me and most likely hubby.  If I loaned mom the van, guaranteed I would not have a pleasant night with my hubby.  I was really torn.  I wanted to help but how could I?  I ended up finding someone to work the afternoon for me and drove my sister myself. 

We got to the hotel and it took an hour to clear things up.  In the end she ended up getting all of her money back, including the fee for the night she was there!

I had a great time with her.  It was the first time in 8 years that we got to hang out.  (we had some difficult times in the past which I will not talk about here)  We did some shopping, went for dinner, bitched about our parents (no one understands your parents like a sibling) and just had a great time.  It was a blessing to spend time with her and have such fun doing it!  All my other siblings live far away and I never get to see them.  Her and my relationship has been so strained in the past few years but I really felt like we reconnected and that was so nice.  Thanks Ang!  You are awesome!

The impromptu trip threw me off my game though!  I didn't get to yoga last night and I got home so late (11:30) that I also didn't go on my run this morning.  I am going after work though.  I brought my running clothes so I don't have any excuses!  I also went way over my points yesterday which pisses me off.  The culprits were the 2 coffees I had.  (8 points)  We also went to Moxie's for supper and I did make healthy choices but they have no nutritional information on-line.  While searching this is what I found:

We have attempted to collect nutrition information for this restaurant and received the following reply:

" Thank you for taking the time to inquire about Moxie's nutritional information.  Detailed nutritional information is becoming a more frequent request from our guests, and it is a challenge that we are not yet quite prepared to meet. At Moxie's, our ongoing philosophy is to constantly look for ways to improve the quality and value we offer our guests, and this results in recipes that are constantly evolving. The benefit of this approach is great food at great prices, but the downside is that we are unable to accurately track the changing nutritional information for the 300 or so recipes that we make every day. This is a project that we look forward to tackling in the future as we grow into a larger company, but it is not yet something we can manage."

Best regards, Moxie’s Home Office

Lame!  Not something they can manage?  Well I guess I will have to manage not eating there anymore.  Plenty of other restaurants put out their info, so they can too. 

I had to estimate the points for what I did eat there.  Hopefully they are close. 

Food Journal (October 19, 2010)

• 1-12 grain bagel w/2tbs of light cream cheese - 7 points
• 1 Lrg. Double Double - 4 points
• 1 Kashi Dark Chocolate Cherry Bar - 2 points
• 1 Banana - 2 points
• 11 almonds - 2 points
• 6 sm. pieces of naan bread with mosaic dip (vegetarian dish w/ roasted tomatoes, mushrooms, red peppers and goat cheese)  5 points - estimate
• 1/4 of roasted beet, pine nuts, goat cheese and arugula salad w/ a half chicken breast and vinaigrette - 4 points - estimate
• 1 Lrg. French Vanilla - 4 points

Total Points = 36

18/36 Weekly points used so far!  Eek!  If I hadn't had given in to the coffee, I would've been OK!  Tomorrow is another day!

Exercise

None, unless walking around with shopping bags counts?  Maybe?  Probably not! LOL.....

My Feet Keep Running......

I went for a run today!  I dragged my ass out of bed and made myself go.  It was hard.  Week 3 of C25K program is:  5 minute brisk walk,  and 2 reps of jog 90 seconds, walk 90 seconds, jog 3 minutes, walk 3 minutes, 5 minute cool down.  I couldn't jog continuously for 3 minutes but I am going to repeat W3D1 until I can.  I also followed with a 15 minute stretching routine afterwards and it felt so good!  Especially my calves.  All in all, I had a good day.  Now for a cup of tea and a couple of chapters before bed.  Goodnight all.

Food Journal

1 piece of high fibre toast w/ 1tsp of becel - 1 points
1 1/4c of Strawberry All Bran cereal w/ skim milk - 4 points
1 Subway Chicken Teriyaki sub 6" - 5 points
1 banana - 2 points
1 applesauce cup - 0 points
1/2c of grapes - 0 points
1c of salad w/ 1tbs of vinaigrette - 1 point
1 baked chicken breast - 3 points
1 c brown rice - 4 points
1c of green peas - 2 points
1c of cooked carrots - 1 point
2tsp of butter - 2 points
1c of skim milk - 2 points

Total Points = 28

Exercise

W3D1 of C25K program  (30 minutes)

Wandering Around.....

Good day today.  Plenty of sleep.  Got to watch all the Grey's episodes I missed before church.  Spent the day with my family.  Walked everywhere.  Grocery shopping done. Enjoyed a French Vanilla coffee.  Talked to a good friend.  Had a great dinner with the in-laws.  I love Sundays!

Food Journal

• 2 pieces of high fibre toast with 2 tsp of Becel - 3 points
• 1c of 1% milk - 2 points
• 2 apples - 2 points
• 2 poached eggs - 4 points
• 1 1/2 pieces dry rye w/ 1tbs of peanut butter - 5 points
• 8 deep fried hashbrowns - 2 points
• 3oz of ham - 3 points
• Medium French Vanilla Coffee - 4 points
• 1c chicken and broccoli - 2 points
• 1/2c of beef chow mien - 3 points
• 3 pieces of ginger beef - 2 points

Total Points = 32 points
4/36 weekly allowance points used.

Exercise

2 hours of walking. 

Good day today.  Tomorrow time for a run.  Can't wait to get back at it!  Goodnight.

Food Journal for October 16

• 1 1/4 cup of All Bran Cereal w/ 1% milk - 4 points
• 2c of spinach salad with almonds, dried strawberries and 1tbs of vinaigrette - 3 points
• 1 turkey sandwich - 6 points
• 1 orange - 1 point
• 10 baby carrots - 0 points
• 1 apple - 1 point
• 1c 1% milk - 2 points
• 1 cup of ww spaghetti, w/chicken sauce and 1/4c of low fat cheese - 8 points
• 1 cup of spinach salad w/ cherry tom and yel peppers and 1tbs vinaigrette - 1 point
• 1 cup of 1% milk - 2 points

Total points = 28

Exercise

15 squats
15 lunges

Rolling with the Punches..............

Well hello there!  It's been a long time!  LOL.  I've been pretty busy since I wrote last and I know I have been slacking off.    The only thing I stuck to was my Thanksgiving dinner!  I said I would have 12 points for dinner and I did. 

Last week I have been struggling with my journaling and portion sizes.  I have been making good choices, just not righting them down.  I know a few days I probably went over my points but don't know for sure since  I didn't journal!  Aargh! 

I think I just convinced myself that I knew what I was doing and it didn't matter if I journaled or not.  But........it does.  This can be a slippery slope if I continue this way.  Soon I will be telling myself that I don't need to exercise or I can eat out just this once, twice, twenty times and I will be right back where I started!  I don't want that.  I just need to remind myself that this is a journey, some places will be hard to get to, others easy.  I'm not going back!  I am moving forward.

This week I've committed to:  Jounaling (in my journal and on this blog) and recording my exercising as well.  This way I am not only accountable to myself but to all of you as well. 

I did go to my meeting on Thursday and it was great!  I lost 1 pound!  Which brings my total pounds lost to 20.6!  I am 0.4 pounds away from my 10% goal!  I can't wait.  I can tell too because I tried on some of my old jeans and I could easily put them on.  I bought a pair of jeans when we went to Nova Scotia last year that I can wear again.  (They were only worn once)  and a couple of old jeans that I had that I can wear again.  It felt so good to pull them on and not have to jump up and down to fit into them!  I also have some shirts that I can wear again and that makes me feel really good!  See, another reason to not go back! 

I also read something really interesting from WW that made sense.  It explains rapid weight loss in the beginning and talks about plateaus.

There are some predictable patterns to everyone's weight-loss efforts.  In the first few weeks, it's normal to see quick losses.  People talk about this as water weight.  But what's happening to cause this loss of water weight?  When you reduce your calorie intake, your body responds by releasing its stores of glycogen, a stored form of carbohydrate found in the muscles and the liver.  Glycogen holds water, so when it is burned for energy, it releases water.  Since you're eating fewer calories, your body starts burning up its glycogen stores, and then, after they're gone, your body starts burning fat for energy - which is exactly what you want to have happen.  But, because fat does not hold water and it takes twice as much energy to burn fat, you'll see slower losses on the scales.

How I like to think of this is each pound I lose is harder to lose but the reward is much greater.  Goodbye fat!!  I will post my food and exercise tonight before bed.  Bye for now.

Listening....

I am finally out of my slump.  Ever since I sprained my ankle on Monday I have been depressed.  I think it was a combination of having my period and spraining my ankle that led me to be in the dumps.  Today was the first day I woke up without feeling blagh.  Yeah me!

I was really bummed out about my ankle.  I did go to yoga on Tuesday but I didn't go to my dance class and I didn't run at all.  Listening to my body and not forcing myself to workout anyway was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do.  It feels a lot better today though.  I can actually put on a shoe and walk without a limp today.  I just have to be careful how I turn it.  I will work out on the elliptical tomorrow and we are going to go swimming so that should be nice.  I hope I will be able to run on Monday because I really miss it.

I lost this week!  Even though I was depressed and couldn't exercise, I managed to not overeat!  I did have a cookie on Monday though and it was delish!

I lost 1.2 pounds which brings my total pounds lost to 19.6!  I am 1.4 pounds away from my 10% goal!  Hopefully with this next week I will make it! 

Thanksgiving is upon us and that could be a dangerous time for me.  I love to eat special dinners.  This time I am planning the meal and sticking to it.  No overeating for me!  This is what we plan to have:

Turkey (of course)
Stuffing  (made with low sodium chicken broth instead of butter)
Buns (from scratch)
Steamed carrots and green beans
Mashed potatoes
Sweet potatoes
Baby greens salad
Gravy (none for me)
Cranberry sauce (not canned, I make mine from scratch)
No crust apple pie
Baked cinnamon pears with oat topping

Everything I make will be made with healthy ingredients instead.  Splenda in place of sugar and very limited butter.  Everything except the buns.  (Jeremy and the kids begged for 'normal' buns please!!!!!!!)  So I will be making regular buns.  I have decided to allow myself 12 points for this dinner.  I probably won't get in any exercise that day since I am making dinner but I will basically be on my feet all day. 

We will be going to my dads for Thanksgiving and I am really looking forward to it.  I can't wait to go to the Running Room so I can get some new shoes! 

Have a great Thanksgiving everyone!

Chrys

Grrrreeeeeeaaaaattttt...........note the heavy sarcasm.

So earlier I mentioned I fell while running this morning, turns out I sprained my ankle.  Fantastic!?  I am really bummed out about it.  I LOVE TO RUN!  I DON'T WANT TO TAKE A BREAK!  Wah, wah, wah, whimper, sigh. 

OK, silver lining.  It is a minor sprain, I won't be able to run for a week tops.  Just have to RICE it.  Yes, RICE.  Rest, ice, compression, elevation.    In the meantime, I will still go to yoga and hip hop.  I will not start the C25K program over, I will start where I stopped.  Really hope it is better by Friday, I really hate missing my runs. 

I should let myself have a treat though right?  Something chocolaty?  All within reason right?  Maybe, I will think about it.

Falling Down........

This was a great weekend for me.  The weather was absolutely gorgeous and I got to spend it with my family.  My daughter had a Dance-A-Thon on Saturday to help raise funds for competitions and such.  She had fun, she danced on and off for 10 hours!  While she was there my son, hubby and I walked around and enjoyed the nice temps and beautiful day.  That night both kids went to their papas house and I got to spend a nice evening with my hubby.

Sunday we went to church and then to the studio to do some repairs.  It was a nice weekend. 

I did manage to go for my run this morning and halfway through I fell and lightly sprained my ankle.  I finished my run and my ankle did not hurt.  It hurts now though.  I have iced it and am trying to keep it up as much as I can while at work.  It is not swollen and only has a slight bruise so I am going to stay off of it for a couple of days. 

All in all I had a great weekend and I am still going strong.  I start my yoga class tomorrow and will continue strength training. 

Makes me feel...........

Weight Watchers Tip of the Day:

Invest in a well stocked spice rack.  Spices add flavour to food without adding calories.

Went to my meeting lastnight and I was a bit disappointed.  I still had a loss but it was a loss of 0.4lbs.  Which brings my total weight lost to 18.4lbs.  I really wanted that 10% goal but I know it is achievable and I will be there in a couple of weeks.  I think the reason why it wasn't a 'big' loss is because it is my time of the month.  I always tend to bloat a lot during this time.  We will see next week!  I just gotta keep my chin up.  I still lost so that is great.

My hip hop class was really fun lastnight.  I am definitely getting better and there is a really great group of women there and they make it fun!

I got home late lastnight and didn't get to bed until 10:30 so I didn't go run this am.  I am going to go and run tonight while my son is in dance.   I'm really excited about it because fall in the valley is one of the most beautiful seasons here.  I am so excited to run somewhere different and it is beautiful out today!  20 degrees is awesome for October.

When I got home last night I was talking with my hubby about how I feel.  For the first time in a really long time, I feel good about myself.  I'm proud of myself for sticking it out, working out and most of all running.  Everytime I feel a little down I think of all the things I can do now that I couldn't before and it makes me smile every time.  What a confidence booster this journey has turned out to be. 

I Think I Can.............

Weight Watchers Quote of the Day

Use your weekly POINTS Allowance.  It can help to keep the plan interesting and livable.

For anyone who isn't aware of WW's terminology I will break it down for you.  Every single thing you eat or drink is worth points.  You can calculate them by using your points finder.  (You receive one when you join WW)  You are allowed a certain number of points throughout the day.  You calculate that by doing a little quiz.  I will show you mine for an example:

1. What do you weigh? 
   Enter the first 2 digits of your weight in pounds.  Since mine was 215.8 you would then enter 21.  The first 2 digits of your weight.
2. Are you male or female? Add 2 points if you are female or 8 points if you are male.
3. How old are you? 
   17-26 Add 4 points
   27-37 Add 3 points
   38-47 Add 2 points
   48-58 Add 1 point
   Over 58 Add 0 points
4. How tall are you?
   Under 5'1" - Add 0 points
   5'1" - 5'10" - Add 1 point
   Over 5'10" - Add 2 points
5. Do you spend most of your workday:
   Sitting down? - Add 0 points
   Occasionally sitting, but mainly standing? - Add 2 points
   Walking? - Add 4 points
   Doing physically hard work? - Add 6 points
6. For nursing moms only, are you:
   Solely breastfeeding?  Add 10 points
   Supplementing breast feeding with some solid foods and formula?  Add 5 points

So my score sheet looks like this:
1.  21
2.  2
3.  3
4.  1
5.  2
6.  0
    29 points/day was what I was allowed.

So to recap that.  Everyone is allowed a certain amount of points/day.  Mine was 29 when I started (it is 28 now)  and everyone is allowed 36 points to use throughout the week.  I use my extra points for a treat every now and then or for something impromptu.  Or for when you know you may overeat.  ie:  family suppers, holidays, going to the bar, things like that. 
The goal is to stay on track.  If you eat your daily points/day and do nothing else, you WILL lose weight.  It goes hand in hand with making healthy choices.  The extra points for the week is so you don't feel deprived or like you are on a diet.  Everyone is allowed to have a treat or whatever every now and then.  Moderation is key.  You CAN NOT role your points over into the next week.  It is 36/week and if you don't use them by the time the week is up they are done!  You start out the next week with 36 points. 

I really like the way WW program is run.  It basically teaches you how to eat healthy, make healthy choices and stay on track.  The support that you get from the other members is so awesome, it really keeps you on track.  Sometimes when I am having a crappy week I tell myself to hang on until the meeting and after that meeting I am ready to tackle another week!  I have a friend who is considering going and I really hope she does!  I know you will enjoy it whatever your goal is!  Please come!  I'll be cheering you on!

Sorry if I sound like an add for Weight Watchers today but after trying so many times to lose weight and get healthy it is so exciting to find something that actually works!!! Weight Watchers does work!!!!  I'm proof of it! 

I did get up and go for my run again today.  It was really windy but I finished.  I need to find a sports clothing stores and get some running clothes.  I've read that you need to have moisture flicking clothes and I would like to get a coat with some sort of reflective material so I don't get run over.  I will be visiting my dad for Thanksgiving this year so I will definitely be stopping at the Running Room for shoes and etc.   I have made a decision to run a 5k next year and I would like to get some information from them as well. 

Tomorrow is weigh in day and I feel confident that I will have a loss.  Hope to be at my 10% goal tomorrow but realistically I think that will be next week.  I'm still doing great and hanging in there! 

Good Thoughts

Weight Watchers Quote of the Day

If you find a path with obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere.

Wow!  The inspiring posts just keep on coming today!  Need some inspiration?  Want to join me on the weight loss bandwagon?  Go and check out these lovely ladies and get a heaping portion of motivation!  Just look on the side and click the links to 266, Ruminations and Destined for 150.  I never thought when I started that my main source of motivation would be from the blogs I read!  My family and friends are there cheering me on but it is really my blog friends that get me through a tough day. 

I ran today!  I started over on the C25K program today and it felt great!  It was tough but I didn't quit!  6 am came early though!  When the alarm went off I jumped out of bed, pushed the off switch and crawled back into bed and cuddled with my cat.  As I was snuggled up to my cat I started having a mental argument with myself.  I didn't want to get up and go.  I wanted to sleep another hour but I knew if I didn't push myself to get up that I wouldn't do it tonight.  I already know there is not enough time in the evenings to run.  So I got up!  I had laid out my workout clothes the night before so I wouldn't have to fumble in the dark.  I grabbed my clothes, threw my hair in a ponytail, ate an apple and a yogurt and left.   
It was dark and a bit chilly but I set out on my regular route and did it.  It was awesome!  I felt so great!  Running in the am is so great.  It's still quiet.  Not much traffic and most of the houses I passed were still dark.  It was just me and my ipod.  I love it.  I will be continuing the am run for sure! 

When I got back to the house I woke everyone else and did my stretches while making breakfast.  I feel great.  Better than I have any other mornings! 

While getting ready for work I was trying to find something to wear!  Seriously, I only have 1 pair of pants that fit nice that I can wear to work.  The rest are too big!  The shirts I have hang on me.  Before I started this journey I used to buy all my clothes big and baggy so I could hide my stomach and back rolls now I don't have any clothes that look good!  I am going to go through some of my small clothes and see what fits and I may go buy a couple pairs of jeans and a few not baggy shirts!

Congrats to all my blogging friends for staying on track and staying motivated.  A special shout out to 266 who is struggling on maintaining but admits her struggles with all of us and herself.  Go check her out! 

Being accountable to yourself and your friends is a hard thing to do.  It's easy to lie to yourself and to others but is it easy to know that you are?  Till next time fellow bloggers.

Photo Day

Finally got my photos done!  Had such a great day today.  Niece and nephew were here plus a friend of the kids, so I had 5 kids here!  Chaos was the word of the day around here!  It was fun though.  Managed to tidy up and my wonderful, awesome, super sexy hubby installed the new dishwasher and cleaned the whole bathroom and washed the dishes too.  Love you babe!

I did some baking today and calculated my points for the banana bread recipe I make.  Now, I'm not sure if I did it right but one slice is 16 points?!  WTH?  I am going to take the recipe with me to my next meeting and confirm because that is insane! 

Anyways,  I will post the pics because I gotta get to bed.  My C25K program is getting restarted tomorrow and I am running in the am.

*I did change clothes for this pic from my pink top and ratty star shorts to my workout attire.  I think the clothes make me look slimmer but I will wear these same clothes for the remainder of my pics throughout this journey. 

So there you have it! 

Goodnight all.

Problem Solved

Blogger help works!  I had a problem with my blog being really, really long.  I posted my question and when I checked this morning I had the solution.  Apparently there is a problem in text boxes with putting in too many line breaks.  If you want to change the information in the boxes often it works better if you create a list.  That's what I did and bingo!  It's not way too long anymore! 

Weigh in was last night and there were so many people at the meeting.  I couldn't find any parking!  The meeting went well.  There wasn't really a topic due to technical errors but we had an open session of questions and comments and I learned a lot.  One of the questions was what should you eat before running/working out in the AM.  I've thought about that since I intend to run in the mornings and I don't want to burn out halfway through.   You should try to eat a small amount of protein and fruit before you go.  Nothing too heavy or you will feel gross!  A fruit smoothie is a good solution or a glass of milk and an apple.  You should also eat within a half hour after your workout for the best results.  Your stomach is a muscle too so eating after a workout optimizes the digestion cycle. 

It was a great meeting!  I lost another 2.6lbs which brings my total pounds lost to 18!  I am 3lbs away from my 10% goal!  Awesome!!!  I promised myself when I reach 10% that I will treat myself to a new haircut, manicure and pedicure.  I hardly do anything for myself so this will be a real treat for me.  I'm not sure how I will get my haircut.  I was thinking definitely shorter (it almost touches the top of my bum) and it is in bad condition.  Lots of split ends and very frizzy.  I was thinking maybe bangs (haven't had them in 15 years) or layered shorter in the front and longer in the back?  I'll figure it out.  Suggestions will be appreciated!

My hip hop class was fun.  I definitely feel more comfortable in it now.  I am starting to get the steps but I still need to figure out the 'pocket of the beat'.   When the class first started there were 20 people in it but now there are 4!  I hope more come back but I know I will for sure be staying! 

I will get the pics taken tonight and posted!  Later peeps.

Problem

There is a problem with my blog.  It is really long!  The length is crazy long and I am trying to fix it.  Does anyone know how to fix this?  I asked in help and changed templates, etc.  Let me know if you do.  Thank you.

Another Weigh In....

Weight Watchers Tip of the Day

Stretching is an essential part of a good fitness routine.  It increases flexibility and helps to protect against injury.

Today is another weigh in day at WW.  I feel OK about it.  I still have not started running again and I feel a bit guilty about it.  There is really no reason not to.  I'm not sick or anything.  I think I am just being lazy?  I don't really know.  It's just after a work day, supper, cleaning, kids homework, bedtime rituals it is about 9pm and I am seriously wiped out!  The last thing I want to do is exercise.  I just want a cup of tea and a half hour with my book before bed. 

Yesterday was a bad day for me.  I went over my points and let my 'just a little treat' get completely out of hand.  I didn't eat any chips, candy or junk food though. NSV!  I had a raisin bran muffin from Tim's.  (7points)  2 slices of banana bread with a large chunk of butter on each slice.  (10 points) Peanut butter and crackers -  about half a bag (who knows how many points) and nibbled off the kids plates after supper.  Even though I was full, I just kept on eating.  I did recognize that I was tired and feeling blagh!?  I was just sad and down feeling.  I spoke to my hubby about it and he said, "You sound like the old Chrys."  I was whining about how hard it is and maybe I should just give up and blah, blah, blah.  He was right.  I was letting my emotions control my eating and myself.  I could've given up for the night and ate the entire loaf of banana bread but I didn't.  I put the kids to bed, made a cup of tea and went and watched Criminal Minds.  "Tomorrow is another day."  I said to myself and that was that.

I need to sort out a schedule for me.  I am so bad at putting everything else first and I know I need to make some time for me.  My runs take a total of 40 minutes 3 days a week and I absolutely love them.  It shouldn't be hard to do that.  Maybe I will get up a bit earlier and go for a run in the morning.  It is light out and I am a morning person so that may work for me.  I think I will give that a try.  I must commit to making time for me!  The dishes and laundry can wait! 

Also wanted to say thanks to Michele over at her blog for commenting on my last post.  She and I started our journey at the same time and it's nice to have someone to bounce comments and ideas off of each other.

I know I am late at posting my pics and I will definitely try to do that in the next couple of days.  Tonight is my WW meeting and hip hop class so I will be busy tonight.  Maybe tomorrow?  Till next time. 

Where does the time go?

I can't believe it has been 10 days since I last wrote!  Sorry guys!  I have to admit that I have been slacking off a bit.  I still kept track of what I ate but the cold I had knocked me right out!  I started feeling better by Wednesday (last week) but did not continue with the C25K Challenge.  I did go to hip hop though! 

This week I am definitely going to start up running again. I really miss the me time and I feel so good after I run that I am totally craving the 'high' from running.   I will start from day one of the program and work my way through again. 

On another note, I signed up for a beginners yoga class which starts in October.  Looking forward to that! 

I was really surprised at last weeks meeting because even though I didn't exercise I still lost weight.  I didn't think I would lose and thought I might have gained a pound or two.  I lost 3.2lbs which brings my total pounds lost to 15.4!  My current weight is now 200.4lbs.  It feels so good!  I know I will be out of the two hundreds this week. 

I also took my body measurements this week and will be posting those on the side column! 

I will try to blog more often.  Till next time. 

Busy, busy, me.

Do you ever wonder why you are so busy?  It seems to me I always have a million things on the go.  It's my son's bd party tomorrow, I have to work today (every second week I work 6 days) and my hubby is still sick which means absolutely nothing will be done when I get home.  After work, I have to go grocery shopping and take my sister (their car broke down), buy presents, come home, cook supper and clean up to get ready for tomorrow.  Also, because it is BTS now, there is the ever present chores of laundry, homework, room tidying, baking for the week and so on.  I also really want to get the yard work done sometime this weekend. 

I always have stuff to do.  My list never seems to get smaller only bigger!  Is this the same for you too?  Do you have any tips to give me?  It is sometimes so hard to fit in time for me and my workouts.  I still do.  Last night I did Day 3 of the C25K Challenge but it was started at 9pm.  I don't know if you are supposed to work out that late.  I finished the run and stretching at 10pm and then I had a smoothie watched some Star Trek and went to bed at 11pm.  That is pretty late for me, I usually go to bed at 10 or 10:30 but I did sleep until 8am.  I am usually up at 6:30 or so.  Today I am sore, probably from the hip hop class on Thursday and the run last night combined to make my muscles hurt.  I have decided to take Sunday off.  No working out on that day.  I will still eat properly but I don't want to overdo it.  Since I will be so busy tonight with everything else I may or may not go for a half hour walk tonight.  We will see.  I still have this cold, which has gotten a bit worse today (stuffy nose and a cough).  I might just skip the walk and go to bed early tonight.  As early as I can anyway! 

Also wanted to send a shout out to my BFF's Lee and Trav on the birth of their second son!  Love you guys and congratulations!  Go check out their blog at knitchenette.  Till next time fellow bloggers.

Looking Forward

First things first!  I lost 3lbs this week!  That brings my total pounds lost to 12.2!  Wow!  I am so amazed!  My current weight now is 203.6!  I am so close to breaking out of the two hundreds!  AWESOME! 

I had such a fun time at the Hip Hop class!  There were quite a few women there that I knew.  Most of them were dance moms.  It was so hard!  My legs were throbbing after the first 15 minutes but I still had a blast.  We learned some basic moves and afterwards a combo.  I was a bit embarrassed but I didn't do too bad I think!  My daughter is in Hip Hop and she is going to show me some of the moves we learned so I can practice at home!  

Tonight is my run and I am actually looking forward to it.  I really enjoy going for them because it is just me time.  I can't believe I am looking forward to exercise.  I feel so good afterwards, even with having this cold!  My hubby has the same cold and he is so sick!  He still goes to work but he is so tired and wiped out afterwards that he just lays down on the couch and stays there until bed time.  I think the reason this cold hasn't got me knocked down is because I started taking care of myself 4 weeks ago.  Eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep has really made the difference!  I'm really proud of myself.  I never really expected myself to make it this far but I'm so happy I have.  Till next time fellow bloggers.

Dance Fever

Today is the day of my first hip hop dance class!  I am really excited and a little nervous. While talking to the instructor yesterday, she told me to bring my 'sexy' clothes!?  Um yeah, I don't have any 'sexy' clothes! Not yet!  Before I headed out for my run last night, I noticed my sports bra really perks up the girls!  Ha ha!  So I will wear my 'sexy' sports bra with my workout clothes.  Whoo! 

I did go for my run last night.  At first, I intended on running downstairs on my treadmill but I lost the key thing to turn it on!  The kids are always down there and playing so I know it will eventually turn up.  At first, I made a huge deal about it.  I was pissed because I wanted to do this run on the treadmill, because it was late and dark and I wanted to dammit!  So after being angry and thinking well I just won't go on my run, I gave myself a mental slap!  No more excuses.  Yes it is dark out but it is warm out.  I planned on running and I wasn't going to let losing the key to the treadmill deprive me of my run.  So I went.  I stuck to well lit areas and actually had fun.  I felt great after I got home.  I wasn't mad anymore and I actually felt a little silly about letting something so small bother me so much.  This run seemed easier than the last one and it will only get easier I'm sure.  I did stretch afterwards and OMG it felt so good!   Stretching is definitely a must. 

Tonight is WI.  I'm pretty excited about it.  I'll let you know how it goes and the sexy hip hop class too ;)

Colds Suck

I have a cold.  A mild cold.  No stuffiness, small aches and pains and a sore throat.  The question I am now faced with is, "Should I go for my run tonight?"  Today is supposed to be the second day of my C25K Challenge and I really want to go, but I don't want to over do it.  Do you work out when you are sick?  I did some research on line and this is what I found.
Working out while sick 
Looks like you can if you have a mild cold.  Cardio is best but take it easy.  Do not work out if you are fevered or nauseous.  Since I have a mild cold, I am still going to go tonight.  I will take it easy.  

After my run on Monday I did not do any stretching.  Oops!  I guess you are supposed to stretch after every run or exercise.  The research I did said you should stretch these areas after a run:  calf, hamstring, quadriceps, and lower back.  If you go to Stretching Exercises you should be able to find the info on how to do these safely.  I will be doing these tonight after my run and will see if I feel any different. 

My daughter's first round of dance classes was last night and while there I was checking the other classes and the Beg. Adult Hip Hop class that I signed up for was cancelled!  Shoot!  So I did the adventurous thing and signed up for the advanced.  Yikes!  I spoke with the instructor and she said it should be fine.  I won't be the only beginner there so that's good.  I will let you all know how that goes.  Tomorrow is also WI day at WW.  I am feeling good about it!  Till next time! 

BTW

Forgot to mention I had another NSV (non-scale victory).  I have exactly 4 pairs of pants to where at any given time.  Before I started this journey I could where them without a belt and now I need a belt to be able to where them!! Whoo! 

Motivation

I was reading some of the blogs I follow today and the theme of them seems to be motivation.  Over at think.stew he had a good list and I am going to copy his idea.  So what/who motivates me?  That is a hard question.  It seems like it should be easy to answer but it's not.  I'm gonna put my thinking cap on and give it a shot.

1. My children.
2. My husband.
3. My dad.
4. 266  (if you get a chance go and check her out, very inspiring woman)
5. Shopping at not plus sized stores
6. Shopping at plus sized stores
7. My health
8. Dancing
9. Summer
10. Wearing a swimsuit
11. Running
12. Double Double
13. McDonald's
14. Smiling
15. Receiving a smile
16. Laughter
17. Good comments
18. Negative comments
19. My meetings at Weight Watchers
20. Carol V
21. Being told I can't do something
22. Proving I can
23. Gumption
24. Fear
25. Sex

There you have it.  My list of motivations.  It will change day to day I'm sure.  Another person that motivates me is skinnyhollie.  She is an amazing woman.  No matter how many times she fails ( I hate that word), she acknowledges it and moves on.  She is the first weight loss blog I read and it was her posts that gave me the courage to do something about my weight.  It is so hard to do this and I don't think anyone really understands unless they are doing it too. 

I had the whole 3 day weekend off this time and it was awesome!  On Saturday I had my niece and nephew over and after breakfast and some cleaning we all went to the Wilderness Park.  It was amazing!  I have lived in this area for 15+ plus years and this was the first time I have ever been out there.  We had a blast.  We walked around the whole park and had a picnic.  We ended up walking for about 3 hours out there.  It was such a beautiful day too and I will definitely be heading out there again.  Sunday was spent grocery shopping and cleaning.  I did get in a good walk with my hubby too.  It was nice to be able to spend time with him, without the kids.  We hardly ever get to do that.  Reminds me why I married him :)

Monday was the big cleaning day.  Laundry, basement and our bedroom were all tackled.  I went through my closet and completely cleaned it out.  It was a big job!  I haven't even gone through it for a few years.  Just kept throwing things in there and slamming the doors shut!  I had to clean it out because I couldn't even shut the doors anymore.  I was amazed at all the stuff I found in there.  While going through it I found so many clothes I can't wait to wear again!  I know I will soon.  I even gave stuff away that was too big for me now.  I was thinking I should keep it just in case!?  Just in case what?  I give up?  I quit?  I knew right then that I was gonna do this.  I put them in a bag and am taking them to the Salvation Army today.  I know I am not going to need them anymore, so I might as well give them away.  Cleaning out my closet made me remember me before.  Before the weight took over me and I began feeling like crap.  I remembered wearing those clothes and being happy.  Actually caring about how I looked.  Trying to do my hair!  Shaving!  Making an effort in my appearance!  Even wearing makeup (GASP) sometimes!  Cleaning out those layers of clothes made me start to peel back my layers.  I actually am starting to feel good about myself and confident.  My hubby commented the other day about how he is starting to notice a change already.  I asked him to clarify because I haven't noticed that I look different.  He said it's the way you carry yourself!  You stand tall instead of slouch.  Your happier than you've been in a while and I see the real you now.  Now my hubby isn't an emotional, mushy kind of guy, when he said that, it made me feel great! 

After cleaning out my closet, I started the first day of the Couch Potato to 5K Challenge.  I downloaded it onto my iPod and off I went.  The first day was hard, but I expected it to be.  I completed it and felt great!  My legs don't even hurt today!  Day two is tomorrow, so I will keep you posted.   When I was waiting for the minute to be up,  I thought about what Adrienne (a woman from WW) said at the last meeting, "Not everyone gets up and goes for a run when its 40 below."  She said that makes her feel better.  She's right.  Not everyone gets up to even go for a run.  Not everyone can do this.  It takes a certain mindset, a feeling of enough is enough, to get up and do something about losing weight.  What keeps me going is WW meetings, encouragement from my family and friends, and other blogs.  It helps knowing that I am not the only one out there struggling.  That we can all do this if we put our minds to it. 

So I want to know, what keeps you motivated?  What was your enough is enough moment?  We are all in this together.  I will offer encouragement, advice when needed and please do the same for me.  Till next time fellow bloggers. 

Feeling Good

Feeling good today.  I had my WI last night and I was down another 2.6lbs which brings me to a total of 9.2lbs lost!  This is officially the longest I have stuck with any sort of weight loss plan.  It got me thinking about goals.  Should I be setting myself goals?  I was thinking of all the things I am afraid to do or tell myself I can't do because of whatever!  Laziness, fear?  Who knows? 

Here is a list of all the things I am afraid to do but want to try...

1. Swimming - absolutely am terrified in the water.  I am fine in the shallow end.  If my feet can touch the ground I am OK, but the minute I get in the deep end.  TERROR!  I have to be close to the ledge where I can grab it, just in case.  I can float and tread water and doggy paddle, but I have this terrible mental block about putting my head under water.  The pool is closed for maintenance now.  It reopens at the end of the month.  I am working up the courage to sign up for swimming lessons.  I'll keep you posted!
2. Skiing - so want to try this.  It looks so fun and I know it is great exercise and since it is mostly winter here it would be nice to have more activities to do outside.  It is pretty expensive though and I wouldn't want to go by myself.  I might check into lessons and see what the cost would be and try to convince someone to come along.
3. Skating - this would be fun to do as a family.  None of us can skate really well and it is another thing we can do outside.  The only thing that has me scared is the ankle support.  A couple years ago I was racing with my daughter and stepped the wrong way and rolled over my ankle.  I tore the tendon and was off my feet for quite awhile.  Did I mention the pain?  Oh the pain!  So much pain!   It makes me quiver just to think about it.  I do not want to go through that again.  So I am a little nervous about that.
4. Horse riding - This would be just fun.  Who doesn't have grandiose dreams of roaming around on a horse?  Problem for me is I am scared of horses.  I fell off one when I was a wee child and have never been able to forget the terror of trying to hang on while this beast was bucking and galloping to get me off.  I flew off and was almost trampled.  Terribly scary for a 6 year old.  Ever since then I have been scared.  I come near a horse and it gets nervous and skittish and I am definitely nervous,  maybe they can smell the fear off me, who knows?  But still want to try this.  One day.

Where was I going with this?  Oh right!  Goals.  Should I make myself some?  I'm gonna think about it.  Small steps.  Right now my goals for this week are to journal, drink water, and get some sleep.  Also. get my damn ipod loaded so I can use it on my walks. 

At our meeting last night we talked about the benefits of exercising:  improved moods, sleep better, relieves stress, enhanced body image, good for your heart and many others.  We learned that 25 percent of people do absolutely nothing for exercise/day.  60 percent do less than 30 minutes/day and 40 percent do at least 30 minutes/day!  I am proud to say that I am in the 40 percent!  I always go for my walks everyday.  It does make me feel good.  I have been getting better sleep and even though  I don't have less stress in my life, I find I can handle it better.  I have been thinking about kicking it up a notch and someone at the meeting said there is an app for ipods that is called Couch Potato to 5k.  I am going to give that a try this week.  As for the gym I am looking into prices and comparing cost.  I do want to start weight training as well which is what I will be using the gym for.  Well I guess that's all I have to say for now.  I am still here and fighting!   

Finding Time

Whew! First of all, I am still here and on track!  Things have been crazy busy for me lately with work and getting kids back to school.  It is so hard to find time for myself!  I was hoping to be able to update daily but realistically it will be every few days!  One of the things I have been sticking to is making sure I go for a walk every night.   I usually go for an 1 1/2 but even if I get in a half hour I feel good. 

I found some really awesome recipes on the Heart and Stroke Foundation's website.  They were so good!  I tried to link the recipes but am having troubles so if you are interested go to the website and look up Chicken and Sweet Potato Mash and Chicken and Sweet Potato Pizza.   I am going to keep using the site for supper, lunch, snack ideas. 

In my last post I talked about joining a gym and I made up my mind to  do it.  I am having a bit of a dilemma about which one to choose.  Our town has a small gym that is old and dingy, no AC and not many staff.   The gym 2o minutes away in the next town is awesome!!  Experienced staff, classes, great hours, new equipment....etc.  It is the gym I want to go to but because I only go to the next town 3 days a week and one of those days is for my WW meetings and dance class, is it worth paying for the membership?  I'm not sure.  I really want to but am still conflicted.  What do you think?  Any suggestions or ideas? 

Last week I had an appt. with a nutritionist about some supplements and the conclusion was I would not be taking any!  Too many conflicting studies and some not approved by the FDA in Canada.  I will be taking Vitamin D and Calcium but that is all.  While I was there we talked about the Canada Food Guide and I was surprised at how many servings we are supposed to get in a day.  Such as Dairy for female adults my age is 2 servings and the same with meat.  I have made a commitment to myself and my family that we will now be eating according to the CFG.  I have also given up candy and junkfood for myself and kids.  I will not allow it into the house at all!  Which only makes me happy!  Not hubby or the kids but they will get used to it.   My goal is to help my children know how to make healthy choices for themselves when they get older.  Fruit and veggies aren't your enemy!!!  

Just wanted to let you all know I am still here and still fighting! 

Saying NO to saying NO

Just a quick note to let you all know how my meeting and weigh in went tonight.  First of all, I lost 3.8 lbs which brings my total weight lost to 6.6 lbs!  WOO HOO!  :)  My current weight now is 209.2!  I am almost out of the two hundreds!  I was so happy after my meeting!  I felt great.  I know I keep saying that I won't let the scale bother me but I hate that thing!  I couldn't even bring myself to look!

Our meeting lesson tonight was the title of my post.  We talked about saying no to saying no.  Such as, not letting us have a treat every now and then.  It's OK to have a treat or splurge once in a while.  You just have to plan for it.  WW is not a diet!  It is a lifestyle change.  Life is going to throw curves at us and we just have to learn to roll with it.  The most interesting part of this concept was when you say no to yourself, you deprive yourself of many things.  Such as, exercising, completing a marathon, zip-lining or joining a dance class.  Many things we tell ourselves we can't do.  Or we would never be able to do that because (insert excuse here).  When we tell ourselves no, we rob ourselves of so many experiences!  It took me 3 days to work up the courage to sign up for that dance class but I did it!  I also am going to sign up to the gym tomorrow too.   I don't want to deprive myself of anything anymore! 

Food and Beverages

7 bottles of 710ml of water
1 Chai tea (0)
1 Lemon tea (0)
1c of Kashi Go Lean Crunch w/ 1/2c of skim milk and 1/2c of blueberries (5)
1 Banana (2)
1c of salad w/ cucumbers and tomatoes (0)
1/3c of FF cottage cheese (1)
1tbs of dressing (1)
1 hard boiled egg (1)
1/2 serving of Pasta Primavera (3)
1 Flax multigrain pita (3)
1 lrg. plum (1)
1 cup of mixed greens w/ red peppers, tomatoes and gr. onions (0)
1 chicken breast (3)
2tbs of poppy seed dressing (4)
1 med orange (1)
1 Kashi almond bar (3)

On point today too!

Exercise

1 hour of brisk walk

Finding Time

Today was a really good day.  I got enough sleep last night and I was on point all day today.  It was really busy for me though.  Work, shuffling kids around and going back to school shopping wore me out.  On the plus side I signed up for the Hip Hop class on Thursdays and also picked up a number for a Pilate's class that I just found out about.  A friend told me that gymnastics is offering an adult class so I am going to look into that too!  The only thing I was disappointed about is I could not find any time for me to work out.  I got home at around 8:45 and I had to do the dishes, laundry and tidy up.  By the time I was done it was 9:30 and I was beat.  I thought I would walk on my treadmill during my fave show but realized it was under a pile of basement junk and it would've taken me an hour just to clean it out.  I am going to tackle it tomorrow so on the days I do get home too late to go for a walk or it's raining, I will jump on the treadmill.  Tomorrow is weigh in at WW and I am nervous!  I hope I lost some more weight but we will see.  I will post tomorrow and let you all know either way!

Food & Beverages

6 710 ml bottles of water
1/3c of Rogers Oatmeal (2)
1c of blueberries (1)
1/4c LF yogurt (0)
1c skim milk (2)
10 baby carrots (0)
1c of lentil vegetable soup (2)
1 turkey sandwich (4)
1c skim milk (2)
1 lrg. plum (1)
10 baby carrots (0)
1 srv. pasta primevera (5)
1 srv. chicken breast (3)
1 garlic toast (5)
1 med. orange (1)

Total Points 29 (Right on target)

Exercise

None

Whew!

Wow!  I had a crazy busy weekend!  We travelled to go visit my dad and do some back to school shopping, we left on Friday and got back late on Sunday!  I am so tired!  Travelling takes a lot out of me, especially when it seems you need to cram a bunch of stuff in such a short period! 

I did end up going over my points on Saturday (thanks for the awesome supper Dad)  we had BBQ ribs and garlic toast and yam fries and taber corn.  It was so good and so worth it.  Everything in moderation right?  I knew I would end up going over my points on Saturday so I made a point of going for an extra long walk before supper.  So I think I did not too bad.

Sunday we did some more quick shopping, I bought a couple new bras and some clothes to work out in.   The only thing I had were my star shorts and a ratty t-shirt.  I did get fitted for a new bra and I was completely shocked to find out I was a 38DDD.  I totally did not believe it!  I guess that's why none of my bras fit!  Haha!  I'm sure hubby doesn't mind!  LOL:)

I am having kind of a rough week and I am really struggling to not eat anything bad for me.  I just feel grouchy and eager to pick a fight.  I think it is because I am not getting enough asleep.  I usually go to bed at 10:30 and I haven't been going to bed until after 11 and it takes me a while to fall asleep.   I need to work on going to bed earlier. 

It's hard to stay on track when you are grouchy.  I am still going for a walk everyday and I made a decision about exercise.  I am going to join the Hip-Hop class on Thursdays since I have to be in town for my WW meetings that night anyway.  I am also going to going the local gym in town.  Looking forward to the dance class and also a little nervous but I am going to have fun!

I just wanted to post so you all know I haven't given up!  I have also decided to track what I have eaten and the exercise I have done on here as well!

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1/2c  cooked granola (5)

1/2c fresh blueberries (0)

1/4c FF yogurt (0)

1c Skim milk (2)

1c salad w/ cucumbers, blueberries, LF cheese, tomatoes & cauliflower (0)

1tbs of balsamic dressing (2)

11/2 Chicken Breast (5)

1 Banana (2)

12 Crispy Minis Sea Salt & Lime Flavoured (2)

1 small piece of carrot cake w/ tsp of icing (6)

1 small t-bone steak (7)

1 yam baked (3)

1 tbs of becel marg (2)

1 cup of steamed broccoli (0)

I was 6 points over today :(  but that is fine!  Tomorrow is another day and I am not going to let today bother me!

EXERCISE

1 1/2 hour walk

Saying Goodbye to Excuses

Today was extremely busy day!  As I mentioned yesterday we were having a travelling day.  I made sure we went to bed early so I got plenty of sleep.  I also packed a lot of healthy travelling snacks (apple, plum, carrots, rice crackers, and almonds) and plenty of water.  I find when I am driving I tend to munch on gas station goodies so I was really glad I packed healthy!  We stopped for lunch at Subway and I had a 6" Veggie Delight on 9 grain whole wheat with tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and green peppers with mustard and low fat mayo. (5 points)  It was so good and filling. 

We arrived at our destination and went to go school clothes shopping.  I was really nervous about being at a mall because we always stop and eat at the food court and always get little treats from the specialty shops.  We ended up walking for about 3 hours and my feet were so sore.  I also left my water in the van so I ended up being really thirsty.  After 3 hours I was done!  My feet were sore, I was thirsty and starving.  I was really grouchy and tired.  Then we went to the food court.  I really felt like giving in.  I really wanted to eat whatever but I told myself NO!  Just because I was grouchy I wasn't going to let that be my excuse to eat unhealthy.  I found the healthiest option which was Kyroro Korean BBQ.  I had a plain BBQ chicken breast salad, no dressing and a bottle of water.  Which was a total of 6 points.  Super good and I felt full.  

When we got back to my dad's he had a cake for Jord's BD.  I looked at the NV and took a quarter of an inch of cake which ended up being 2 points.  I was really proud of myself!  I didn't let any excuses get in my way of my goals and I am finished with letting bad days and hurt feelings be my excuse to eat unhealthy!  

Well I guess I should go to bed now!  Another busy day tomorrow.  Goodnight. 

Weigh In

Just a quick note to let you all know that I am doing well.  Stayed on point!  Had some crazy cravings at work but I just ate a plum and drank some water and they went away. 

Weigh In today was 213 lbs even.  That is 2.8lbs lost so far!  Awesome!  

Well got to go.  Gearing up to head out of town tomorrow and we are heading out for a walk.

Bye for now.

NSV (Non Scale Victory)

Today was a really good day.   I stayed on point and walked to and from work today which was about 45 minutes.  In the afternoon, I started feeling a little cranky.  I had a headache and my pinky toe has this monstrous blister!  I started thinking there was no way I would be able to go for my walk tonight and I started getting down on myself.

I was trying to figure out what else I could do when I remembered my cousin saying she really liked Aquafit.  Aquafit is from 8 to 9 on Wednesdays and Mondays where I live.  I had a huge mental argument with the "Other Chrys". (I guess I'm a little crazy LOL)  The "Other Chrys" hates trying new things,  does not want to come out of her shell, is so freaking shy it's paralyzing and above all things absolutely hates being seen in a swimsuit.  "What would people think of you?" she said.  "What are you trying to prove?" she said.  "You know you should just give up because you aren't gonna do it anyway." she said.  You know what the Real Chrys said?  She told that b*tch to shut the f*ck up!  I know I can do this!  

I am going to do this!  If that means I have to try new things and meet new people that's what I am going to do.  I am starting to realize that this journey is not only about being healthy, it's also about becoming the woman I want to be.  Someone who isn't shy, who is outgoing and who is always first to try new things!  So I went to Aquafit, I put on my swimsuit and I went into the pool!  There were people there.  I didn't care what they thought. (If they thought anything) and I tried my best to do the moves!  Halfway through I realized I was having fun!   I will go again on Monday although that's the last class :(
and I will start looking for something else to do.  Best of all, I got a good workout!  I can feel it!  I will probably be sore tomorrow but that's OK. 

BTW, tomorrow is weigh in day at WW.  So we will see!  I'll let you know.

Decisions, decisions.........

First of all I want to say thank you to all the wonderful comments people left for me on Facebook.  They are so motivating and I am really appreciative of them! 

Today was an eventful day.  I made sure I planned ahead this morning because I had a court appt.  (nothing bad, just family related).  I got up early made a healthy breakfast, grabbed a V8, a plum and my trusty bottle of water and headed out the door.  When we got to the courthouse there was no parking (uh oh) and then when we got in there was so many people there!  Literally, absolutely standing room only.   I had my book and my family so we waited........and waited...........and waited some more.  I ate the plum, drank the V8 and finished 2 bottles of water. (1 litre)  Lunch rolled around and there were still about 20 - 25 people waiting to go in.  I was STARVING! Finally the judge announced a ten min lunch break!  My mom and sis wanted a coffee, so we drove to Tim's and the whole time I was thinking, "What the heck can I eat there?"  I didn't want any coffee but I wanted something (DOUGHNUTS, TIMBITS).   When we got to the window, I ordered low fat vanilla yogurt and berries and a whole wheat bagel with no fat cream cheese.  It was easy saying no to myself.  I expected this huge inner battle and I just decided no!  Small victory for me!  WOOT!  We got back to the courthouse and I ate my yogurt and half the bagel and felt satisfied!

It really got me thinking about decisions and choices.  We all have a choice.  Easy way or hard way?  Ignore the problem or confront it?  Eat a whole box of Timbits and a Boston creme and feel like sh*t about yourself or make a healthy choice and feel proud?  I'm trying to take this journey one day at a time.  Some days will be easy (like this one) and some will be hard.  But as long as I remember that I have the power over my decisions and nothing or nobody else does, I know I will do OK.

I did get a few comments about the gym situation and was just informed that Curves makes you sign a year long contract so that's out!  I am seriously considering a dance class of some sort?  Maybe hip hop?  I got a booty!  LOL.  Also, I think I will look into Fitness on the Go and once I get used to their machines and how they work, I might just join the gym in town!  We shall see.  Definitely gonna keep walking though.  Went for an hour and a half tonight after supper and I feel great!

Thanks again for all the awesome comments!  You guys are great! 

Walking....

Had a really awesome day today!  Today was a work day and a little chilly.  I am fortunate enough that I have a job where I can bring my kids to work (but it is really hard to get any work done)  I can't wait for school to start!     

I've been thinking about going to see a doctor for a yearly exam (it has been 6 years since I had one).  I really hate going to the doctor, but I think it would be good to get some questions answered about losing weight and exercise!  I also have an appointment with a nutritionist because I would like to learn about supplements and vitamins.  I've read on some blogs that taking supplements can aid your weight loss. 

I know I am only on day 4 and maybe this is the honeymoon period but I feel so damn good!  I have so much energy and I feel good about myself for making healthy choices.  I just feel like something inside of me has clicked.  I know I need to get healthy and I want to feel good about myself.  I have even been making an effort to go for a walk everyday.  Today after supper we all went for an hour and twenty minute walk!  It feels so good to get outside and I know it's good for our kids too!

After work today I left to go and buy some new runners (all I had were flip flops and man did my feet hurt)  I found some nice ones at Bata and they feel so good on my feet.  During our walk my feet didn't hurt at all. 

I've also been thinking maybe I should join a gym?  I don't know.  I will check prices and compare.  I could go to Curves but I think a 'real' gym might benefit me more.  Does anyone have any ideas? Suggestions?  Has anyone been to Curves before?  Please let me know what you think.  I am open.

New Shoes

Putting those shoes to work!

So now I'm off to tell all my FB peeps about my new blog and I think I will make a new FB page as well for ShrinkingChrys.