Been Gone

I have been absent...I realize that.  I have had a rough few months being motivated about blogging.  And about being healthy.  Summer was hard.  I felt like if I wasn't doing well, I shouldn't blog about doing well.  But, I guess it's all part of the journey.

I am back up 2 lbs, so I have lost a total of 18...as far as last week is concerned.  Yesterday, I threw in the towel and rededicated myself to WW.  I have been SLACKING!  I have a friend helping me along, giving me words of encouragement and laughs via Facebook.  I'm thankful for her.

I felt great yesterday.  Today has been more difficult.  The cravings are creeping up....candy corn and pumpkins staring at me.  But, I have stayed strong.  I was tempted to go pick up something for lunch today because I had nothing in my fridge and I didn't want to go to the grocery store.  I refrained and made myself a homemade bean burrito.  I have two.  It ended up being WAY more points than I was hoping for, but I guess its better than fast food.  

I didn't feel like working out this morning (I told you, I'm in a funk).  But, I talked to my sweet mom and got the motivation I needed.  I did a NTC "Get Lean" workout:  FIRE DRILL.  It was brutal.  

2 days down.  

I'm gonna try to get back into this whole blogging thing..."try" being the key work there.

Today's Lunch

Cucumber Sandwiches

These little babies are pretty tasty.  I'm sure even more so if you use delicious deli meats and different cheeses.  I just used what I had in my fridge before it went bad.

8 Sandwiches = 5 points

They are surprisingly filling, too.

I've had a rough week, eating wise.   Hoping next week will be better, even with our planned camping trip.  No weight loss, but still down 17.6 pounds in 3 months.  I'm proud.  Gotta work hard to get those last 7 pounds down to meet my goal!

Summer is Hard

Summer offers so many wonder aspects:  Warm sun, Fresh air, lots of fun activities, etc.  One thing I dislike about summer is the complete lack of a schedule. Because you have so many options for things to do, I often just do everything.  My days never go as planned, mostly because I end up doing fun things instead of things I need to get done.  I'm not complaining.  I love summer.  However, summer has been hard for me this year.

On April 8th, almost 3 months ago, I decided to sign up for weight watchers.  I was excited and enthusiastic that I might actually be able to make progress.  The first month rocked.  Then came May. The sun started shining, people started calling, and my dedication flew out the window.  Since about the middle of May, I have been a slacker.  I workout, sure. We are constantly outside going for runs, walks, bike rides, playing at the parks, hiking, etc.  But, because I am always gone, it makes it hard for me to plan and follow through with healthy meal options.  This has always been my problem, really.  It's just easier to grab something quick than to think about going inside to COOK!

I weighed myself last week for the first time since May 30th.  I had some progress.... -5.4 lbs.  That was  a complete surprise.  That make 15.2 pounds total in the past 3 months.  I am very proud of this, and would never take away the fact that I worked hard for those 15 pounds.  But, I know I can do better.  I have approximately 3 months left of Summer weather (July, August, and September). Although, September can be hit and miss, and sometimes we have summer weather in October.  Regardless, over these next 3 months I am going to try extra hard to plan better meals, and follow through with them.  This might mean I have to spend a little more on groceries so that I can keep the fridge and pantry stocked with FAST, EASY, HEALTHY meal ideas.  Those always seem to be a little more pricey. And I will continue to take full advantage of the warm, sunny weather that makes exercise easy and enjoyable.

I will let you know how it goes.

I am really proud of myself, by the way.  Although, I know I am never going to be finished and I know I can always improve.  Only 10 more pounds till I reach my first goal! I have a feeling they are going to be tough!

Choose Sorbet

I am a complete ice cream fanatic. It's kind of disgusting, really.  To me, ice cream is like pizza.  It is always delicious, and I am ALWAYS in the mood for it.  Especially when it is 100 degrees outside, which currently, is the case.  However, luscious, creamy, rich ice cream is NO GOOD when it comes to points.  Seriously, 1/2 cup is 8 points...and thats if you don't put anything on it. Which, honestly, I usually don't.   But, do you know how small a 1/2 cup is when it comes to ice cream???  We are talking like 1 1/2 scoops folks.  And not Cold Stone scoops.  I mean "the ice cream is so hard I can barely scoop anything out" scoops.

Thus, Enter Sorbet

 

I am a fan of sorbet, but it has never ever taken a candle to ice cream.  I don't crave it, and it almost never sounds as good as the creamy stuff, unless I am sick. However, for a 1/2 cup of this bad boy...3 points.  Um...I'm going to need to start liking sorbet.  Like, NOW!

P.S.  There are also a lot of fruit based popsicles that aren't bad in points value.  They are nice for hot summer days when you just need a little something to cool you off.  Just stay away from ones PACKED with sugar.... i.e. otter pops.  

Serious Intervention

I had an intervention with myself last night.  I realized that I have been doing AWFUL at EVERYTHING!!  Eating, Exercise, Sleep.  Just give me a big fat "F" for the past 2 weeks.  So, I intervened...on myself.  Is that possible?  I'm starting over, today.  Right now.

Normally I would just give up.  But I've noticed lately, how often I do give up on things I have intentions of doing.  I don't want that to happen anymore.  I want to follow through.  So, I start again today.  Tracking EVERYTHING that goes in to my mouth, making those things healthier options, eating less, and exercising more.

Yes, I think I will....

Stress=Eating

I have always been an emotional eater.  My mom claims it comes from her.  Thanks mom.  I see myself doing it.  When life hits a rough patch, I get stressed out, or things just aren't working out the way I'd hoped, I eat.  It makes me feel better.  At least that's what I tell myself.

Professionals say you need to figure out why you are going to food during those times.  Um...it tastes good??  I don't know any other reason than that.  And if I did have another answer, I probably wouldn't still have the same problem.

I am working on this bad habit.  It's hard though.  Today I had 17 Cherry Twizzler Bites. That equals 4 points.  4 points is like having breakfast all over again.  Except it didn't fill me up like breakfast does. I didn't really need them...although I did need a little something sweet after my lunch.  Instead of grabbing the already cut up cantaloupe in the fridge, I grabbed the Twizzlers. And no, I don't know why.  Maybe my sugar is a "beacon of hope".  It kind of seems more like the opposite, though.

So, I conclude to do better at this "emotional eating".  Maybe I will do 5 pushups every time I feel like I need to eat something sweet. That should help...maybe.

Cheers to better choices...and less stress.

Tired

I have been so tired lately.  I'm not sure why. I have a few theories...

1.  It's getting HOT.  The sun tires me out like crazy.
2.  Lack-o-water.  I have NOT been drinking enough water.  I know this, and need to change it.  Especially because I am outside so much.
3.  Crazy busy.  I feel like I have so much to do and so little time.
4.  Food. Food. Food.  I haven't been eating a lot of "power" foods lately.  Power foods=more energy!

In other news...made some yummy cookies earlier this week.  They were 3 WW pts a piece.  I can proudly say I have only had 4...TOTAL...the entire week!  That's like beyond fantastic.  I might actually be gaining some self control.  Imagine that.

Five Percent

Today I hit my first weight goal of WW!!  I couldn't believe it.  I haven't been eating so healthy the past few days, so I thought for sure I would see a gain when I got on the scale.  But, I didn't!  I dropped another 1.6 pounds.  So I have officially completed goal one of losing 10 lbs, which is 5% of my weight!

I am honestly completely shocked, and really happy.  It's nice to see hard work pay off. I have tried to eat well, although Mother's day at the in-laws really sent me for a spin, (nothing there is low in points), and i have tried to be really active.  It's been easy with the nice weather.  I am able to get my workout in, whether it be at the gym, going for a run, or at home, and then we usually head out for a walk or bike ride later in the day...sometimes twice.  It's nice to be outside and know that you are being active and healthy.

I celebrated today with a treat at the most delicious bakery by my house.  It's a huge chocolate oatmeal bar, totaling 7 points.  I can't believe I'm wasting 7 points on one thing!  But, it's really yummy.  I walked to the bakery, which totals about 40 minutes, so I think that helps me not feel as bad!

Happy Day!

P.S.  I made delicious Zucchini Boats for dinner last night.  Here is the recipe:

Zucchini Boats

3 medium zucchini
15 oz ricotta part-skim cheese
2 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic salt
3 Tbsp bread crumbs
Lemon Juice
Basil

1.  Preheat oven to 350
2.  Slice zucchini in half lengthwise.
3.  Scoop out seed in the center of zucchini
4.  Place zucchini on baking sheet, and bake while making cheese mixture

5.  Combine ricotta, parmesan, and garlic salt.
6.  Fill the center of each zucchini half with cheese mixture
7.  Top with bread crumbs
8.  Return to oven and cook until bread crumbs are golden brown, cheese is warmed all the way through and bubbly, and zucchini is soft.
9.  Garnish with lemon juice and basil, if desired.

Each zucchini half is 3 points.  Not too bad! And they are delicious!

Monday

Today is Monday.  Always in my life I rededicate myself to doing all things "fabulous" on Monday.  Often times that means eating healthy, exercising, getting more accomplished, etc.  Today is no different.  I have felt the last two weeks, that life has become a little out of control.  My schedule is off, my eating has been off, my exercise has been off, basically my life has been off.

I was sick for a week, so I don't really feel bad about this.  I think life usually falls apart when you can do nothing but sit and feel awful.  Last week was my "back on track" week with my exercise.  I did well, every day but Saturday.  This week, I want to focus on my eating, and getting more things accomplished. I sometimes just sit around when I could be doing more important things.

I used to hate Monday, but now I am choosing to embrace it.  I'm going to think of it as a new, fresh start.  Forget everything I did bad last week and be good this week.  I want to do Monday Goal(s).  My goals for this week are:

1.  Work my core out every day.
2.  Eat more fruits and veggies.
3.  Be accomplishing something ALL during T's nap.

Those aren't hard.  Very attainable goals.  Hello Monday.

Seeing Progress

After my eating week from you-know-where last week, I was a bit nervous to step on the scale today.  I almost didn't, in fact, thinking to myself "I don't have time" or "I'll do it tomorrow".  But, after my awesome TRX class with my awesome Mom, I decided to bite the bullet.  I'm not going to lie, I expected a gain.  But, low and behold, a loss!  3 pounds, in fact!  I was so happy.  Really, can eating good cause be that important??  Yes, for me it is.  So that makes 8 pounds in the 3 weeks I have been doing WW.  Not too bad, folks.

I'm feeling good today.  Went on a nice walk to the park with T and had a good lunch.  It will be a good day.

I started the 30 challenge yesterday on Bodyrock.tv.  Last night while the hubs helped in the garden at my parents house, I snuck into the basement to do the Fitter for Summer-Day 1-Fit test.  It was hard.  Here are my scores.

1.  Squat & Press w/ Sandbag - 19, 20, 18
2.  Pushup-Clean & Press w/Sandbag - 5, 5, 5
3.  Tricep Dips on Bench - 20, 24, 29
4.  Knee Raises on Dip Station - 20, 20, 21

I am interested to see how it changes after the month is over.  It was hard.  Have I mentioned that?

For lunch today, I feasted on some Tuna.  I L.O.V.E. tuna.  Highly recommend it if you are looking for something tasty.  Toasted Tuna sandwiches are my fav.  MMMM..

Today is May 1st.  I have decided to participate in the Bodyrock May 30 day challenge.  I have loved following BODYROCK.TV the past few months.  They are awesome at home workouts that are pretty dang brutal.  I haven't even followed them really intensely, but I'm going to this month. I will let you know how it goes.  Here is a schedule of the workouts.   

If you want to find out more about Bodyrock.tv, check out their site here.

Sick Week

I have been sick this entire week.  Sore throat, cough, no energy, massive headache, and no sleep.  It's been rough.  I haven't even managed to track my eating every day.  Which is bad, especially since I didn't eat particularly well.  Due to my lack of energy, I didn't go grocery shopping.  I tried to make due with what I had, but I ended up eating out quite a bit.  I tried to make good choices, but I know it still wasn't the best thing to do to kick week 3 in the butt.  However, it's a new day, a new week is about to start.  I'm highly anticipating having a better week.  Although I haven't worked out since Monday, I think I should be okay to start this Monday.

Being sick is rough on every aspect of life.  I'm happy to be feeling a little bit better.  And I'm excited to get back at it.  I didn't do my "plank" challenge this week...I could barely breath.  I will do it this week instead.

Here's to new beginnings!

Rough Weekend

This weekend was not the best in the world, we had parties and get-togethers galore.  Friday night we went to pizza with some friends.  Didn't do too bad though.  Got a 6" veggie pizza and a giant salad with no meat.  Just some beans for a little protein.

Saturday, a baby shower.  I indulged in a cinnamon roll.  I didn't really feel bad about it though.  It was delicious. 

Saturday night, a birthday party.  I had a hamburger, but stayed away from chips, jello, Swedish Fish, cookies, and ice cream.  Chose to munch on baby carrots instead.  I think at that point I realized how much I WOULD have eaten had I not been so conscious about it.  Eye Opening!

Sunday, birthday gathering for the hubs at the in-laws.  Eating at their house is never gonna be good.  Everything is marinaded, had loads of butter, and they love their desserts!  But, I think I did okay.  Chose a small chicken breast, one scoop of delicious mashed potatoes, and some of the grilled veggies.  They were covered in olive oil, so I couldn't even go crazy with those, unfortunately.  I only had 1 coconut shrimp, which is basically a miracle.  A small slice of cake and scoop of ice cream to finish it off.  I went 16 points over yesterday, just because of all the extra things they added, plus my hubby made me yummy whole wheat pancakes for breakfast, my fav!  I still think of it as a success though, because like I said, I would have been FAR worse!  

I weighed myself at the gym today 180.5.  WOW, that's a lot.  But, it's 6 lbs down from the last time I weighed myself, which was back in October.  And who knows if I gained weight since then.  I'm going to work hard so I can see the number drop even more.

Tonights dinner....Veggie Omelets!  I'm feeling a bit under the weather, so I don't know how exercise is gonna go this week.  Which means it's even more important that I eat well.  Had a minor set-back with a Snickers bar (just a mini) a few minutes ago, but it wasn't worth it, and won't be happening again anytime soon.  

I am not sure I look any better, but I am definitely feeling better.  I feel like I'm not as puffy.  I know that sounds weird, but it's true.  It's probably not noticeable to anyone else, but I'm not doing it for them. I'm doing it ME, remember??

P.S.  Finished my Burpee Challenge last week.  This week, I'm gonna do planks!  One 1-minute plank every day.  Also very doable.  I gotta get this core tight again!  

One Week Down

After the end of today, I have officially been doing WW for a 7 days straight! Man, it feels like longer, already. I haven't weighed myself yet. Kind of forgot at the gym this morning. But that's not really important to me anyways. Here's what I have learned this week.

1. You need to EAT your points! I think at first, the points are kind of scary. I prepare a snack, track it, and "Oh No! 7 points!" It seems like a lot, but your points are there for you too eat. I am convinced you cannot lose weight without eating. At least not healthily. I have been running low on energy these past few days, and low and behold, I haven't even met my points value for the past 3 days. So, today, I'm committing to eating!

2. Grains. I eat a lot of them. I love bread. I'm a total sandwich girl, always have been. My first go-to snack...anything on a piece of bread. I do eat 100% whole wheat, so I feel okay about it, but eventually I would like to decrease the amount of bread I eat. Maybe try some other grains.

3. There are options! The thing I love most about WW is that you have options. You can eat anything, really. Obviously you get the most out of your points when you choose healthy options. I swear sometimes I feel like I'm eating all day just because I have made good choices, and I can!

4. Color is GOOD! I have been eating fruits and veggies like crazy this week! It's so important to have them as a part of your diet. Plus they make your plate look pretty. I have had loads of spinach, apples, berries, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, etc, etc. It's been awesome. I have felt so much better each day as I have replaced sugar cravings with an apple.

5. Exercise is a must...still. I know that eating well is 80% of my problem. But, that last 20% is incredibly important. Exercising is something I will always have to do. Good thing I enjoy it... most of the time. I have tried a few new things this week, a spin class, and a TRX class. LOVED both of them and hope to continue to keep going.

I feel like it has been a good week. I am sure I will learn lots more over the next months. And, I hope I start seeing some results!

Burpee Challange

Today I signed up for a WW challenge. The challenge is easy, very doable. It is to do 10 burpees every single day for 7 straight days. I can do that, right??

I'm going to have to make me a reminder sign because I'm forgetful like that.

If you don't know what a burpee is, here is a little visual aide.

Looks easy?? Ha. Try it. Since I am so advanced (cough) I am going to add a pushup once I am in plank position. Wish me luck!

Side Note: Told the hubby about WW this weekend. Figured it was time since he was going to take me out to ice cream, and I NEVER turn down ice cream. Until now. He was incredibly supportive and proud. He also promised not to have his eyes glued on my every move and every meal. And to not always ask me about it. Which is what I need for him to not do. So, it's good. Still not telling anyone else though. I'm sure my mom will be next...in a few weeks, or months.

Healthy Meal

Tonight I made a delicious and healthy meal that I wanted to share. First, it's Pork. I have only made pork one other time in all my life, and it was in the crock-pot. I was nervous, but it turned out great.

Here is the recipe:

Breaded Pork

1 1/2 lbs Lean Pork Tenderloins (6-1/4 oz tenderloins)

1/2 cup Breadcrumbs

1 Tbsp Paprika

2 tsp Garlic Salt

1 tsp Onion Powder

Cooking Spray

1. In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic salt, and onion powder.

2. Coat each tenderloin, front and back, with the cooking spray.

3. Place coated tenderloins in breadcrumb mixture. Cover each side, evenly.

4. Place on a greased cookie sheet (or use a parchment paper, which I did).

5. Bake @ 400 degrees for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked all the way through.

Um, I made this recipe up. I tried baking it at a higher temp for 15 minutes, but I think it was a little too tough. So, I recommend doing it at a lower temp for longer.

Green Beans

1 1/2 cups String Beans

1 Tbsp Canola Oil

1/8 tsp minced garlic

Black Pepper to taste

1. String the Beans.

2. Heat oil and garlic in a fry pan over medium heat.

3. Add beans and pepper.

4. Cook beans until tender.

I steamed the red potatoes in my rice cooker and added 1 Tbsp of light sour cream, salt and pepper.

The entire meal was only 11 points, and I was stuffed. The red potatoes were a lot more points than I had thought they would be. Oh well, it's still great for an entire, very filling, meal. T loved helping string and snap the beans, and he even ate some pork.

Overall, it was quite successful!

Parental Support

Today, while I was at the gym pumping iron and dripping sweat (or something like that) I noticed something really awesome. As I looked around the room I saw many different kinds of people: "Meat Heads" over on the free weights grunting and eyeing the "pretties" that look way too cute to be there. There were people who knew what they were doing, some who looked clueless, others working out with trainers, and more in the classes. How cool that all of those people are there to feel good and get healthy.

None of these people are out of the norm. Those same people are always there. But, then, I noticed something that isn't quite so frequent. I saw a mom walk in with her daughter and head to the treadmills. Later, I saw a mom and daughter walk into the cardio class together. I saw a dad and son, lifting weights on the machines, and another mom and daughter lunging and running across the gym.

It was kind of an emotional experience for me. I hope that those kids know how lucky they are to have the support of their parents. Most of the kids were overweight and looked like they hadn't frequented the gym lately. I felt for them. Been there, done that. But, at least they decided to go today.

I, too, have incredibly supportive parents. Parents who have been awesome examples to me of what it means to be active and healthy. They are not perfect in their health, but I think that's what makes them able to "walk-in-my-shoes".

My sweet mom has been a "gym rat" since I can remember. When we were little she would get up early early before we woke up for school and head to the gym. She runs, plays tennis, lifts weights, and does the stair climber like no one I've ever seen.

She has always tried to have healthy eating habits as well. She eats whole grains, and veggies, and hasn't had chocolate for 12 years!!! Can you believe that???

What an example she is to me. And a support. She goes to the gym with me, running with me, and plays tennis with me. Last year, we ran our half marathon together. There is no one else in the world I would have rather crossed the finish line with. (Although, she crossed WAY before me!)

My dad. I love him. I feel like we have more "alike" habits than my mom and me. But, as long as I can remember, he has been a hard worker. He is always doing manual labor, being active outdoors, golfing, running, and playing sports with the boys. He goes to the gym, too.

He has always been supportive of his girls being healthy, offering new wardrobes for met goals, and always forking over cash for new gear and equipment, lessons or gym memberships. Literally couldn't have done it without him.

I hope as T grows up, and our future kids, that they will look to me as an example of being active and healthy like I have done my parents. I don't think that this is something that can be done on your own. I feel like you need support, and love, and encouragement. I'm so lucky to have so many people around me that do this every single day.

P.S. Didn't end up going to ice cream last night. Had a Raspberry Jello instead. 2 points!!

Weight Watchers

Today I started my Weight Watchers tracking. It's not too difficult. Minus the fact that I have a hard time measuring everything. It has made me realize how many times I grab something "here and there" walking past the kitchen, preparing T's meals, or while I'm working. I think stopping this habit will be key for me.

After just breakfast and lunch I have realized that CHEESE is no-bueno. Lots of points for cheese, and for grains, like lasagna noodles. But, I know that it's okay to still have those things as long as the rest of the day I try to eat really well.

I have 8 points left (my daily goal is 29) and I have dinner to eat still. Also, I'm going out with some friends tonight for ice cream. EEKS! But, I think I am going to try some sorbet. Which is so not me. But, obviously "me" isn't working so well on this bod. Sorbet is only 4 pts for a 1/2 cup, where premium ice cream is 8. So, I guess it's worth it.

I feel good about today. I think I did well. But, the real test is over the weekend and in the next few weeks. A big key for me will be planning my meals and making sure I have "good" food in our house all the times.

I think I am going to do before and after pics. My weight watchers is 4 months long, so maybe I will do pics every month. It kind of makes me nervous, but I think it will be cool to see if I actually am able to make some progress. Decisions, decisions.

For the Normal

Here we go. It's Wendesday, April 11, 2012, and I am starting. I just signed up for Weight Watchers Online. No one knows this. Not even my husband, or my best friend, or my mom. I'm not doing it for them, though. I'm doing it for me.

I have constantly struggled with my weight. It has gone up and down and back up all throughout my life. I have tried to stay active, tried to eat well, and tried to be healthy. It's been hard. It's been overwhelming. But, it's been life.

I'm just normal. I don't think that I am the only one in life with these struggles. I know I'm not. But for me, I don't let them defeat me. I know it is going to take effort to get myself to where I want to be. I'm not even really sure where that is to be honest. I just want to be healthy. And happy. And I would love to fit into single-digit jeans at some point in my life.

I had my little boy almost two years ago. He is my life. And if for nothing else, I want to be healthy for him. I want him to have parents who love to play with him, and are able to. I never want to get to the point where my weight and body inhibits me from experiencing life with him. Because that wouldn't be living to me.

Since he is almost 2, we have contemplated trying for baby #2 in the near future. But, I know that if I do not focus on myself for these next few months, I will be emotionally unable to bring another little one into this world. I need to be healthy for my family.

I, probably like all of you, have many excuses. I'm too tired, I don't feel good, I don't have time, I have kids, my husband is never home, etc., etc., etc. The thing about it, is all of these excuses are REAL! They aren't going to stop tomorrow, or the next day. So, how do I work around these things? I have put in my head lately that "now isn't my time". I am so busy, that I cannot focus on weight loss right now. I will have to wait till my kids are in school, or my husband has a better schedule. WHAT?! Waiting? I realized I will be waiting forever.

So instead, I start now.

I know that it seems weird I haven't told anyone about this journey yet. I have my own reasons. Mostly I need to prove to myself I can do it. I struggle with eating, far more than exercise. I love to exercise, mostly. But my eating, well, I love to do that too. And I like the not-so-good things. So, I'm hoping weight watchers will enable me to focus more on what and how much I eat as I consciously write it down each day. It was a lot of money to sign up...especially for someone who isn't exactly "rollin' in the dough". But, I knew if I sacrificed that money, I would actually do it.

I am planning on keeping this blog as more of a "journal for the journey". Who knows if I will ever tell anyone about it or if anyone will read it. We shall see. But for now, it's just for me. As it should be.