I WON!!!

I am so happy!!!


Polk Fitness Competitors,

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Polk Fitness Competition! I hope that this has helped spark some motivation for your own personal fitness routines.

The Winners are in!

Grand Prize Winner – Xbox 360 + Kinect

Jennifer Whitaker

That's me!!!! I won a freaking XBox 360!!!!!

I stuck to my 4 days a week, drank more water and tried to use the steps more often! I stayed true to myself and my name was entered into a raffle over the 6 week period 32 times, mind you there were people who killed themselves working out(to the tune of getting over 70 raffle tickets) and I WON!!! I'm so excited and I can't wait to play Dance Central, Soccer, Tennis and whatever other game will help cure my insomnia!!!

CARB DETOX

...is real. The headaches, the constant craving, the dreams of pizza, pastries, bagels, buns, starch and grains is REAL! I digress.

Thanksgiving weekend, gave me so much life! I only had what I wanted, dressing, greens and mac and cheese, the thing is, I ate that 3 days straight! Oh well, its the holiday season and December is full of dinner parties, cocktails and Christmas festivities. I will do this without carbs 6 of the 7 days in a week. So far so good. This week, was trying as I am having carbs for the first time tomorrow. This is week 4 of the Fitness Competition at work and that is working well. I have been actively working out 4 days a week and keeping one day of the weekend, getting 4 laps around the mall, before I begin shopping! I hope to get a new camera for Christmas, I would love to start documenting with pics other than my EVO.

Thanksgiving = Family!

I am so excited for Thanksgiving weekend! I get to hang out with family and friends, shop on Friday and get the tree up!!! I love the holiday season. My babies and I are going to Macy's(so funny to me) to write Santa a letter and drop it in the mail!!! Have a good weekend. I'll be back on Monday!!!

Owwwww!

Like, OWWW I'm in pain! So, I joined the Fitness Competition at work and guess whose on my team! My freaking President and CEO, VP of Finance, VP of General Counsel and the Lawyer for our company. All very athletic people and I feel like I need to stay in the race!!! So, for the first time ever!! I worked out 6 days in a week! Zumba 3 days(which I love), the hubby and I hit Tae bo in our basement(the kids came down and joined in)!!! Great workout and hilarious at the same time and I do free weights. My knees, feet and arms are hurting, but I feel good being active!!! I have so much energy and I see those collar bones getting ready to make an appearance for the first time in over 8 years!!!! OMG!! I feel good!I will keep it up, I needed something to light me up and this is it. I have 5 more weeks to go. I'm pretty sure my team won't win the grand prize, because really THE CEO is on my team!!! Still a good motivator!

I can't complain...I mean I could, but I won't:)

Welp, this week has been going just fine. I went crazy after that reese cup last week and had more chocolate and because Halloween was right around the corner, I was having a crazy good time getting High off my own supply. I digress.

Today, starts Zumba at work! I'm soooo excited! I took the late class, because the moves are provocative, the teacher is loud and I know it will be a good time! I will keep you posted. My companies CEO also has a fitness competition going on for the company. It works as so, you sign up, you are randomly selected to be apart of a group and you have to log your hours of working out and eating right. You will take a before and after picture. The teams that rocks it out will receive an Xbox Kinect in addition to gift cards~! I'm on that! Needed the additional motivation, especially seeing that November-Feb are so cold and lazy!

Keep you posted!

Struggles

I guess you can tell from this post title that I am having issues. When my cycle comes on I am full on chocolate craze! I have to have it. To combat that, I will have a chocolate slim fast shake or sugar free chocolate. Welp, this time around I said the hell with it. I failed to plan and I had a reese cup. Yes. I. did. It was delicious. I can't be mad, hey this is a journey, I want some chocolate cake and I am yearning for some comfort food. This is not an easy process but, I have to move through it. I am trying to stay on top of things. I gained 2 lbs this week. BOOOOO!

Non Scale Victories

A light bulb came on yesterday:

It was beautiful outside, the leaves were falling and it was a nice 75ish degrees. I put on my sweats, laced up my sneakers and put on my headphones and went for a walk, that walk turned into a run! I can't believe it myself! I was out there for about 45 minutes! I.can.not.believe.it. I felt liberated, strong, in control and it made me feel like this will not be an on and off change for me, I will stay the course. Today, I packed my bag, it was a little chilly today, but I remembered the feeling from yesterday and I had to experience it again. I laced up my sneakers and went jogging, now don't get me wrong, my feet ache, my shins ache, my hips ache, but I am determined. I got a good run in and took the steps back up to the showers at work(10th floor!) and I feel amazing. When I came back from working out my co-workers told me that I had a glow to me! What!! That's incentive enough! I feel good after I work out. I'm not ready to eat everything I see. I have to keep going until this mission is complete. I lost another 2lbs. this week! Another great motivator is my work...my job has personal training, zumba, nice workout facility, across the street from our building is 4 walking or running trails, discounts on healthy lunches in our cafeteria, water dispensers, Weight Watchers and the list goes on and on. Its refreshing to see people around me shrink and its a great motivator. I'm working out alone, its nice to have a partner, but sometimes that's impossible. I'm a working mom with 2 kids, I have to do this for myself and no one else. So, working out alone won't kill me and my eating has been great, the hubby and I are working hard at keeping each other accountable.

Other non-scale victories
-I can fit bracelets at Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe(that's huge for me)
-I can wrap a regular sized towel around my body
-I am able to sit in roller coasters when an adult is needed on the kiddie rides! My kids loved that I was able to ride with them, I'm afraid of heights but because I could fit, made me so happy
-Shoe size went from a 10 to 8.5 and I'm hoping it goes down. I attributed the shoe size to having kids, NOPE I was to fat!

So, start with a walk today. Drink more water. Grab those ear phones and dance your way around the block, do what you got to do to keep moving!

Wednesday Weigh In!

Good day all! I weighed in this morning down 1lb. Last weeks 6lb weight loss explains this 1lb weight loss. I have worked out 2 times this week. I'm taking today off. I will walk, but no gym for me as I am working out at work 2 days a weeks and 3 days a week at my local gym. Its supposed to be nice around these parts so my kiddies and I will go out and enjoy the weather. My husband and I have been working together to encourage each other. We exchanged log ins for our Myfitnesspal accounts. I text him what I've eaten throughout the day and he does the same. It keeps us accountable. He cooked an amazing meal last night, cornish hens, vegetables and shrimp, it was so good. I wanted to eat some of his rice so bad, but I restrained myself. I know that detoxing myself from carbs is probably a bad thing, but I am so dependent on them that I almost have no choice. I have totally lost control when it comes to carbs, its ridiculous! I have had migraines all week and I have been in a crappy mood. Oh well, I really don't have much to say, because I'm really tired and have not been getting sleep. I'm really working out 5 days because I want to get sleep(from working out so hard), so its a win on my appearance and a win for my mood! Keep you posted on how it goes this week! Have a good one:)

Withdrawals...

Good day all!!! I am so tired! My little princess is in pre-school and my 2 year old is running a muck and I am trying to maintain a workout schedule in addition to keeping them on a schedule with all of the OTHER responsibilities as a wife and I cannot keep up!

Anyway, despite being tired I have been to the gym 3 times this week and my goal is to go 2 more times. I have lost 6 pounds this week and I am very pleased *happy dance*. I am trying to prepare myself for this season. I'm used to cuddling up to a nice book and eating sweets. My body is so used to that during this weather and I am clearly going through withdrawals. I want a donut, cake or some sort of carb. I haven't had them in 5 days and it has not been easy, but I am definitely moving forward. I just have to get better with getting my water intake in.

I see that I have gotten more subscribers over the past 2 weeks and that's a HUGE MOTIVATOR For me!!! Hi!!!!*waving* Thanks for subscribing!!! I hope to really knock down 25 lbs in 2011!!!

Just what the doctor ordered!

Listen very closely(Ok, read)! Speaking positive things over your life is definitely the way to go!

I was bummed on the last post, but I am also deteremined to lose 40lbs, ok! So, I got an email yesterday from our Wellness team and Zumba is coming to the workplace!!! AHHHHHH, I'm so excited! I was invited to "interview" and participate in a round table to pick the instructor. The "interview" is basically me taking the class with all 3 teachers today! So excited! I needed this push, it will help me to get myself back in the gym and to also help me to have more energy. I have not been sleeping well and I am always soooo tired. Looking forward to the experience today, it should be lots of fun:) Keep you posted:)

Insert *LONG SIGH* Here

I am determined.
I am motivated.
I am fearless.
I am unstoppable.
I am a winner.



My morning mantra. And even though the scale stayed the f n same(well minus a couple ounces), I will not go and have a piece of cake. I will change up my approach.
I will hit that gym hard, 4 days, I will cut my carb intake to 3 meals this week and I will stay in the race. I've noticed that if I don't get the sleep I need to function(7-8 hours) I get very bad migraines. I have a food diary and am jotting down every single thing I put in my mouth and drinking so much water that< THANK GOD, my office is 5 feet from the restroom. I will stay focused, I am determined.

Update

Day 3 of the cleanse and I feel like crap. Migraine's the past 2 days so far, I was bit by something on my face and it has swollen up to the worst Ike Turner looking black eye I have ever seen. I've never been vain(or maybe I just didnt notice). I came to work today because I skipped yesterday due to the migraine! LORD, my cleanse has not made this any better for me, because I'm not eating carbs and my body goes through this weird detox when I stop having carbs( you would think once my body finished the detox, I wouldn't mess with carbs again) I digress. So, I say all of this to say that this week has been crap. My face is a hot mess(the left side) and I am counting down the hours to leave work. I may work from home tomorrow and come in the office on Friday if it doesnt get better. My doctor gave me Prednisone to take for the next 5 days twice a day. I took 2 last night and had 2 this morning, hopefully this speeds the process a bit. All in all, I am following my cleanse, feeling like crap and all. But, I know I can do this. Keep you posted on the process. BLAH *deep sigh*

Cleanse

Why is Friday so close to Monday and Monday so far from Friday...I had a tough night.

Anyway, I have had some stomach virus for the past 24 hours. I have been drinking lots of liquids and drinking broth. I was already starting a cleanse today, so I decided since I had such a sucky day yesterday, I would move right into a fruit and veggie cleanse. It just works better after not feeling so well and still not feeling 100% today. After I cleanse for the next 7 days I am going to figure out what my next steps are, still not sure of that. My goal is to get all of my water in this week(so, I will be in the bathroom alot) and get my 4 days in at the gym. I really wish my phone could upload these darn pictures, so frustrated with Sprint right now.

I have been wearing some really cute things since I have not GAINED any weight since I took a summer hiatus, that's how I know I can lose the last 30lbs.! I have been totally stalking all things fashion, all of these wonderful and totally FAB fashion bloggers and have been inspired for the past few months to step into it a bit more and I must say it has been so much fun! I love getting dressed! That's why I have to drop the last 30, because there are a few things I want to wear that I can't get into, so I'm on a mission! I will keep you posted on the process:)

Cleanse

...its been a long time, but I have been totally out of it. Enjoying my summer, not really watching what I was eating, but not pigging out either. I have been active trying to enjoy the summer with family and friends. As of late, the weather has changed dramatically and something clicked. It's time for a cleanse, something to get me back in the mode of feeling good again. I haven't been getting enough sleep and I have been eating more carbs than usual so, it's official, this Monday(because I will be shopping Sunday), I will come back and check in on what my BOOST will be to kick myself back into gear.

Holla!

The Big 30!!!

I am officially 30 years old! I am so happy to say that my 20's were amazing! I graduated college, got married, had kids, brought a house, purchased a car and am still learning to be an all around good woman! I am so excited to see what the next 10 years have to offer me! I can't wait to travel, enjoy my life with my family and take my career to the next level. The only thing I did not do in the last 10 years was get my career on track, busy being a mom and wife, I didn't feel like I could stay above water with that. I just have a job...my goal is to step that up! Most of my friends were depressed going into their 30's and had some sort of break down...me, no way, I'm totally embracing it and can't wait to see what the future holds for me.

My hubby is the best, he took me to a beautiful restaurant in Downtown Detroit, atop the GM building(Floor 72) overlooking Detroit and Canada for a late night dinner by the window, LOVE him! I couldn't get good pictures, you have to experience, pictures can't do it any justice and for some strange reason my camera came out dark...here's a picture or 2 of us. My goal is to post more pics on my blog:)

What a Difference a Year Makes!!!

Last July, I was attending a wedding for my cousin and I was so stressed out. I was over 200lbs and couldn't find a dress that was flattering, my belly was huge and it was depressing. My girlfriend who recently lost over 50lbs gave me a couple dresses from her closet(size 18) and I picked which one I wanted. I was so upset, looking for sandals to wear because I was so uncomfortable wearing them big huge feet because they were so fat. While at the wedding, I wore a 1 piece dress with a belt at the waist. My belly was so big that I broke the belt, so I had to take the belt off, I refused to get out of my seat during the reception and I was pretty sad. I was mortified and told myself that I would work hard to lose the weight, my journey didn't officially begin until September.

Fast Forward, this past Saturday. Because my hubs and I have 2 small kids we don't have much date nights for ourselves, we are really doing something this July because for 2 weekends straight we have did something, just the two of us. It has proven to be something that we need to do more often, its so cool to date him all over again!!! We went to a wedding together and while shopping for a dress, I was a bit uncomfortable at first and I kept looking in the misses area every store I went to. The dresses were just too big, finally I went to JC Penney and found a dress, I put it on and it fit perfectly, guess what size 12!!!! I went to Bakers for some sexy heels and I wore a size 8.5!!! What a difference a year makes!!! It's taking me some time to get my weight off, but the slow process is proving to pay off because I'm not gaining it back!!!

Dukan Update: I took a break from the Dukan for the past 6 days, I've been eating fruit(the only different item). I felt like I needed to because my TMI was real! And I don't want to be uncomfortable like that! Other than that, I can see myself going back to it, but for now all of the best fruit is in season!

WARNING: TMI

Beware.

I have had the most uncomfortable bowel movements in the past week. I mean, its unreal. I was a bit hesitant continuing the Dukan Diet, but after careful research, I went to pick up some green tea. I drink the Diet Green tea by Lipton for a little sweet when I have the urge for juice. I went to Trader Joe's picked up the tea and have been drinking that along with my 8 glasses of water and it's. a. MIRACLE.

Back to normal. Aside from the fact the food is just BORING, that was my only other issue. Still pressing forward!!! I have no desire to quit this diet just yet. Maybe after doing it for 6 weeks.

Non Scale Victory!

I went to Marshall's this weekend to find something to wear to the R. Kelly/Marsha Ambrosius concert. I walked through the store, I would usually walk straight in over to the Plus Size area and look at the 1x tops. So, a freak of habit that's what I did. The shirts were falling off of me. I went over to the XL tops in Misses and those were still kind of big, and they weren't flattering at all. There is a Junior Plus section, so I tried on a L and XL dress. I could fit the LARGE! I was so pleased! I brought some nude wedges, I usually wear size 10(have been giving those away because they are too big). I was able to get a size 9, I could have worn an 8.5 but, it was the first time wearing them so I wanted to give myself room. I am very pleased!!! The hubs and I went to the casino for dinner(there was a buffet). I did so well, probably because I kept getting so many compliments on how good I looked in that sexy dress! I will wear it again this week to take a picture, pics came out too dark. Continuing on with the Dukan Diet, feeling good, getting bored with the food, but I want to lose my goal for the month of July!

Sick...Binge

I was sick for the first part of last week and didn't eat much and then the last part of the week, cookouts, pool parties, bday parties #FAIL I went hard on the Attack Phase on the Dukan Diet Monday and have been following it every since. I was pretty mad at myself and had a headache on Monday that last until just about last night.

I had to be honest. I will keep you posted.

Cruise Phase

The Cruise phase is a day of protein only and a day of protein with vegetables everyday until you reach your desired weight loss goal. I had veggies for the first time in 7 days and my body was so happy. The veggies tasted better to me, I felt a burts of energy and I had a very good bathroom experience. I understand that this phase can and will get boring if I don’t introduce new things into my veggies/protein days. I have lost 3lbs in the past week. I understand that this is the beginning of the diet so weight loss will be steady for a few weeks and I will have to tweak my diet, work out harder, but seeing these results in such a short period of time makes me HAPPY! I will keep to it and lets see if I can make 25lbs down by the end of July. *fingers crossed* Down 12 as of today!!

I did have to tweak my cruise phase a bit. In the book, Dr. Dukan suggest that you have 5 protein only days and 5 days of protein and veggies. I find that its working for me, because the 1 and 1 was a bit frustrating for a while. I also read in the book not to weigh yourself during the week before your cycle because you will carry the water and be so upset. I am exactly 7 days away today, so I weighed myself yesterday and I meant to post this sooner, but I forgot. I won't be weighing myself next week but I will keep you posted. I am having some craving issues and had some sugar free jello last night because I really want to eat a king size reese cup, but I digress, moving along and hopefully I can enjoy all of the bbq's and picnics for the holiday weekend without blowing this all to hell!

Dukan Diet: Attack Phase Review

Before, I get started I worked the Whole 30 for about 3 weeks and only saw a 5lb loss. I was getting frustrated. It feels like whatever eating plan I did I would lose no more than 7 lbs and then have to shock my system to do something else. So, I go to my doctor monthly due to a thyroid issue that I’m having, makes it harder to drop the lbs. My doctor actually told me that he wants me to try the Attack Phase of the Dukan Diet. I was kind of surprised, but I thought the only thing that could happen is I don’t lose any weight and am constipated for a week! Why not, I went to Target picked up the book and got to reading. Like everything I try to do I researched it a bit, watched YouTube reviews, searched blogs online and made my decision to make it happen.
Typically breakfast consisted of:
Egg whites and low fat ham or turkey meat or 2 boiled eggs.
Lunch: Grilled chicken breast (I cook them or if I’m in a crunch I go to KFC for it).
Dinner: Turkey burger, chicken breast, salmon
Gym workouts are: Aqua Fit, Pilates, Yoga I go to the track to walk or I get on treadmill for 25 minutes. I am sluggish for the first few days. But, after day 3, the cravings have subsided and the fact that I am having so much protein it’s keeping me from being hungry which in turn does not give me the desire to want to snack.
At the end of each night, I add 1.5 tablespoons of the oat bran to a non fat blueberry or strawberry yogurt. The oat bran has been used as granola in my case. I will not be cooking that as oatmeal. The book states if you want to lose double digits during the Attack Phase don’t eat dairy at all. Well, I’m having it! You have to get your water in. It is extremely important. You’re eating nothing but meat, you will be constipated, if you don’t drink the water and have the oat bran. The reason why I like this diet is because I don’t have a million choices, so I can’t mess up. For 7-10 days: lean meat, eggs, non fat dairy, 1.5 tablespoons of oat bran(mandatory), 64 ounces of water. It’s a freaking no brainer! So far so good, I don’t have any cravings, I think about the food but I have not gone out to get ice cream, cookies, chips and other junk foods that I love.

Sum it up:

Cons
Constipation
Boring food selection

Pros
Rapid weight loss
Increased energy
Suppressed appetite due to high protein, you don’t need to eat as much or as often because you don’t want it.

I did the Attack Phase for 7 days and lost 9.4lbs.
Today is Day 8, I was trying to push for 10 days, but I really need roughage in my diet, I miss vegetables. I forgot my breakfast this morning. I will have low fat deli ham and lunch will determine if I’m fully off of the Attack Phase of this diet. I will update you in my next post, discussing the next phase: Cruise

Overview

Experimenting with the Dukan Diet

Phase 1: Attack Phase
You eat lean protein only. And drink a lot of water (coffee, tea and diet sodas are OK too but they have to be zero calories and zero fat).
Your protein is likely to come in the form of meat (low-fat beef, chicken, turkey, fish), but there are also dairy possibilities (e.g. zero-fat yogurt and cottage cheese, etc) and vegetarian/vegan options (e.g. eggs, tofu and seitan). You can season your protein with anything that is zero fat and zero carbs, like salt, vinegar, onions, mustard, normal spices (oregano, basil, pepper, etc.) and so on. You also add some oat bran (1.5 tablespoons per day) to the mix and a 20-minute walk every day. The Oat Bran is mandatory every day and not to exceed 1.5 tablespoons per day.
In Dr. Dukan’s book it clearly states that if you have to lose 10lbs do this Phase for 2 days. If you have 20 to lose, for 5 and for me 40 or more do it for 7 no more than 10 days. At this present time, I have chosen 7 days. Don’t eat any dairy products, if you want to lose a double digit number.
In the attack phase, the only thing that will passing your lips is the protein, the oat bran and the water.
Phase 2: Also known as the cruise phase. You have days of nothing-but-protein alternated with days of nothing-but-protein-and-vegetables. Salad is included as a vegetable(no dressing, too much fat or you can make your own dressing). You continue the oat bran (2 tablespoons per day), the water and the walking (which increases to 30 minutes a day, briskly). You can see why the Dukan diet is also known as the French protein diet. Phase 2 could last for months until you reach your true/ideal weight.

Phase 3: Consolidation phase, this phase starts once you reach your target weight. You don’t lose any weight here – you just maintain your new weight. The consolidation phase adds a little fruit, bread and cheese to the mix, as well as one “celebration meal” per week. Continue eating protein plus vegetables to your heart’s desire. They are always on the menu.
- You get one fruit a day, but you are looking for the watery fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe, apples, etc.
- You get two slices of whole-grain bread. If you must have butter, make it low-fat. Be stingy with the butter.
- You get one serving of carbs per week. This might be pasta or rice.
- Your menu expands to include one “celebration meal” per week, where anything goes.
Consolidation Phase as a safety platform (eat unlimited protein and vegetables, one piece of fruit a day, two slices of whole-grain bread, a portion of cheese, two starchy foods and two celebration meals a week).” There is a huge difference between “eating whatever you like” and eating the Phase 3 diet. So let’s summarize: Eat a phase 3 diet, except on Thursday. On Thursday you eat nothing-but-protein. You continue walking every day.

Review on the Attack Phase coming soon. I have decided to extend it for the full 10 days.

Experiment...

Review coming soon! So excited! I will update after Attack Phase, doing it for 10 days.

* I DON'T SWEAT*

The old me used to say this all time. I used to go to the gym and once I was done would say I only sweat in my head. I don't sweat anywhere else. After my MANIAC Bootcamp class last night...you know the class where I have ass sweat! I was sweating so good, and smelling so funky, but I felt so good about me! I'm moving along and keeping on, even though I was a tad dizzy during today's workout. The scale is moving in the right direction not as fast as I hoped, but its moving in the right direction!


I started a new experiment. I'm very excited about it. I'll tell you more in about 7 days! See you then:)

WHOLE 30 AND Recap of my week:)

I feel amazing! Finally after 2 weeks I feel like I can REALLY live this lifestyle! I have been eating so good lately on the Whole 30 Challenge. Lots of fruits and veggies. I went to a Farmer's Market over the weekend and checked out Whole Foods. I thought my body would yearn for bread and I was right, but I have good days and today feels like one of them! Its sunny out and I am feeling great!
Last week, the workouts went well, I was a bit thrown off though because my teachers were on vacation, so I had new folks I had a wonderful workout on Wednesday, can't sayt the same for Thursday and Friday though. Saturday, my family did a lot of walking so I skipped the gym and did P90X at home while the kiddies napped. Excellent! I'm drinking tons of water and the best thing of all. I came on my cycle and did not have the usual unbearable cramps and ridiculous bloating. My face is clearing a bit as well. I am taking my challenge day by day with hopes of being able to maintain this as my lifestyle change.
Keep you posted...
Here's my favorite meal:

Salad with roasted beets, grape leaves, pickles and garlic paste for dipping just in case! <3

Primal Eating/Workouts

Hello. My workouts were few this week(3). I had the worst headache for about 4 days. While eating primal, you have to eat veggies, meats, fruits and nuts. I am a carb/sugar fanatic and my body was not doing well with me getting rid of it. I had a slip up a couple days where I had graham crackers to try to get rid of the headache. By Friday, last week I got rid of the headache and felt pretty good. Super busy with the family for the holiday weekend. We went shopping, out to the park a couple times and hit up the zoo on the holiday! Great time!!! While at the zoo, blazing hot(90 degrees)about 5 hours my stupid butt had a Dole Fruit Bar and a cup of Italian Ice, my body went into shock...headaches are back! I'm so mad at me. So, the headaches are back but I did go to the gym last night and did a Bodyworks class. I felt super dizzy and I was crazy hot I fought threw it. I know what it is, my body is not happy with me for the sugar and then taking it away again. I have a few festivities this week and I am already checking menus at restaurants and have my lunch or dinner picked out to stay on plan. I will keep you posted as to how it goes.

Week 4 Mission and Whole 30 Food Plan

Feeling good this Monday! Don't you just love sunshine and warm temps?! I do, it gives me the best mood! Welp, Week 4 I was not as active in the gym as I anticpated. I worked out only 3 days. I had a pretty busy week with my little girls bday, she's 4 now!!!
Here's how my week went:
Monday: Bootcamp!!!!! My favorite class, did I tell you my teacher was a maniac???! She will work the hell out of you. Pushups, kicks, huddles, squats, lunges, curls, abs!!!!! Quit playing, the only thing I didn’t care for was her music this week! WTH! I want good music too!! She’s been on point, but I was not a fan. I had a great workout and was exhausted afterward. I decided to add another riser to my stepper(3 now!) and I decided to get rid of the 5lb. weights. I’m at 7.5lbs, I was going to jump to 10, but we do too many reps to do that. Give me a couple week…shoooo
I woke up this morning(Tuesday) so exhausted. I couldn’t get up. I’m excited about Aqua Fit tonight. The class was wonderful, I thought to myself I will hit up the Bodyworks class after AquaFit. Well, my MANIAC teacher is the instructor…enough said. I think I will record about 5 minutes of her workout so you can see what I’m talking about. I couldn’t do the full hour. I was exhausted with a headache. I was a bit bummed and felt like a failure.
Wednesday: My body was aching so bad, that I decided to sit in the hot tub and hit the sauna for a total of an hour today.
Friday: The kiddies and I put the bikes in the car and went to a trail by me. I walked while they rode their bikes and it was about a mile and a half or so, with a few stops here and there.
Saturday: Great day the kiddies and I got out and went for a walk, played a little frisbee, hit up the park and went to the track to walk, they were exhausted once it was all said and done. My body feels good. I have been wearing clothes that I purchased when I was over 200 and decided that I wanted to look cute, so I feel good!
My sis in law, who looks freaking amazing gave me some info on her eating plan and I was reading it over for the past couple days. I decided that I am going to try out this challenge!

Yesterday, was my official first day! Cutting out sugars for me is a big deal! However, I think I need to step it up a bit, I feel good about my activity but I'm not on "plan" 100% as I should. So, I will keep you posted weekly as to how I'm coping on the plan. Sticking to the plan 100% YIKES

Goals for this week: Follow Whole 30 Plan and work out 5 days!!! Let's get it in.

Oh, by the way, I was in a true storm for the first 5 months of this year....you wouldn't believe my story if I told it to you. But, God is amazing! I am so excited about the new beginnings he has in store for me and my loved ones.

Week 3:) Mission Summary

This week started off with my aunt coming over to visit, but she didn’t pack as heavy as she did last month. So, I’m in full workout mode!
I was able to start this workout week off with my favorite class at the gym Bootcamp Conditioning! I have never had ass sweat before, but I like it! Pretty much drenched after this class, socks included and I LOVE IT! Everything aches, but I feel good at the same time. I’ve been very outgoing with my little workout people, making conversation, exchanging numbers or email and it’s been proving itself to go well thus far(keep you posted), because the ladies will ask if you are coming out or see you soon and because I had car issues a few girls offered to come get me. Of course, I declined, because I have backup boo… P90x. Not 1 little monkey will stop my show!!! I’m on a mission! I told you last week the instructor is a maniac. The class is super packed, it’s a wonderful workout. This week she had a lot of jumping jacks, squats, lunges and sprints as well as curls, press and core workouts. She was really good with keeping the heart rate up(almost died). While in the class I actually enjoy her as an instructor, she’s engaged, she works out with you and she actually motivates you while working out. Her music is the BOMB! She had a lot of old school rap. Salt N Pepa, MC Lyte, Hammer and she mixed it up with house music (LOVE), a little rock and new hip hop and ended it on some nice relaxing jazz! The girl knows what she’s doing. Great teacher and I will stalk each one of her classes!!
Tuesday: Bootcamp Conditioning!!! Let me start off by saying the thought of taking this class had me HYPED! However, it was taught by a different teacher. He had the class set up in 4 stations, yoga mats, steppers, weights and empty floor space. There were a variety of exercises: squats, lunges, leg raises, leg lifts, shoulder press, crunches (different variations) running and other things I don’t know the names of right off the back. I will say he was indeed a teacher, I felt like the class was a beginner class. The class was challenging at times, but I didn’t feel like it was a full on workout for me. I don’t think I will be going back to that class. I had a ton of energy after the class, that I got home cooked for the family, gave baths, cleaned house, showered, pulled out clothes for the next day, packed backpacks, made lunches than went to bed! I want to be challenged!!!! So much so, that after the class there is a little boost of energy and I can make my husband do the rest that was just mentioned!
Wednesday: My Company has a companywide initiative to lose weight, move more and live healthy. We have personal trainers come in twice a week to train with employees, Weight Watchers at work; all floors have a glass staircase on each floor to engage you into walking up and down the steps to work with colleagues. We have a wellness committee. This committee has organizations come in to engage you in living healthier. This is such a great perk as I am on my journey changing my lifestyle. Today, we walked with the CEO, this month we are walking in the American Heart Association downtown Detroit and there are some people who will not be participating. So, the CEO of our company had a 3 mile walk schedule for any who wanted to participate. Our turnout was ok (35 people), the weather was freaking amazing (77 degrees) and I was so glad I had my walking shoes. I went to the Bodyworks plus Abs class this evening. I will say this class was intense, with lunges, squats and weights. The class is more of a strength training class. My butt was hurting so bad and all of those Ab exercises were hard. I am taking into account that my stomach is my biggest problem area. It’s hard to do a lot of the exercises; it doesn’t stop me from trying it and doing at least half of what the instructor is asking. I’ve decided that I will use 10lb weights starting next week(using 7.5lbs) while lifting and working out. I like that the teacher was fun, dancing and enjoying herself. Her music was nice, she played my girl Adele and I couldn’t believe the hour was up quickly.
Saturday: Aqua Fit Class-the teacher was older and it wasn’t much of a workout for me. I didn’t get into anything else, because my daughter is in cheerleading and gymnastics on Saturday mornings, too busy!
I sabotaged myself Saturday afternoon, I had 3 slices of pizza I’m only human, will not beat myself up.
Foods that I am loving right now:
Edamame
chickpeas
Lentils
Black beans
Tofu
Bamboo shoots
Salmon
All green leafy things
Chocolate Nut Brownie Luna Bar 180 calories(my chocolate “candy” fix)

Goals for this week: 6 workouts!!!!

Week 2: Mission

Mission Week 2:

I have made a conscious effort not to weigh myself for a full month. Due to my thyroid issue and meds, I don’t want to stress over the number that leads to unnecessary eating and emotions that are just silly. I will weigh myself May 25th. I will not re-join Weight Watchers at Work. Because I have my thyroid issue I am at the doctors once a month anyway for him to monitor my meds and why dip double work. Once I have worked out the proper meds and potentially having a tonsillectomy I will then make a decision on joining again in the fall.
Workout Schedule
Monday: P90X Synergy(during lunch
Bootcamp in the evening the teacher was a maniac! MANIAC! I couldn’t believe it, I was so tired. She had some bomb music; she was a dude with a ponytail. The class consisted of jumping jacks, jump rope, and stepper, running low, sprinting, pushups, squats, booty exercises and abs. The class was high impact and I felt it that evening. My heart was beating so hard, that I thought it was going to explode and my legs and arms were already in pain from the pushup, squats, lunges, and weights during my lunch hour. I’m still feeling good and I am still keeping my momentum
Tuesday: AquaFit Class I made it to my class 10 minutes early and spent 5 minutes in the hot tub and moved to the pool. The class requires a pair of swim shoes, a swim cap(black girls don’t like to have their hair wet daily), swim suit and water weights. Now, the weights are very light, you can add water to them for your resistance or you can leave it empty. I’m short 5’2, I was over in the 4’6 ft of water, there is more resistance at that end, I found myself not able to move into a full squat at that area of water but the class was really big yesterday(my first time going) and I couldn’t pull myself to move to the more shallow end. The workout consisted of kicks, squats, lifting, lunges, balance, and core, jumping and running. After the class I thought to myself I don’t think I will take this class again because I was very relaxed. I spoke to a woman before class who has been going to the class since October (2x) a week and has went from a 24 to a 12. That was nice to hear, however, I thought I need more high impact. I need to feel like I’m really getting a workout in. Honey, I woke up this morning feeling it. My arms, my thighs, my calves I can’t lie it was a great workout. I will keep this class apart of my workout.
I did realize something after the classes. I’m not nearly as hungry as I am usually. I want to eat everything when I’m just at the house, but the workouts have been keeping me busy, working all day long, and then mommy and wife on top of that! It’s a lot of work. But, I’m going to keep it moving.
I had some car issues toward the end of the week, so I did Yoga X, Plyometrics and Kendo with P90X toward the end of the week.
My eating was on point. I stayed under 1400 calories all week. I had a cheat day on Mother’s Day(where I had chocolate brownie and ice cream that I shared with my sisters), it was yummy, but I still allotted that in my 1400 calories for the day. All in all I think week 2 was a success even though I encountered some car issues.

***Note: The pictures are a #fail. My goal for last week was to take pictures while in gym, however, my phone was on the fritz. Anywho, I will come up with something better as I need to see more pics of myself for progress purposes.***

Mission:)

I joined LA Fitness this week(my Bally's membership expired) and I am so inspired. The amenities are amazing, from the olympic sized pool, sauna, hot tub, amaazing Kids Club(that means a lot to me, I don't mind taking the kiddies now). I went in Monday for a regular workout, there was an abundance of machines, I had a good workout but I was missing something. This week my workout was amazing, I was so happy and proud of myself for staying the course this week. My mission is to workout and enjoy it because in the fall, I would like to take the fitness test to become a fitness teacher at the gym! I'm excited! I have been watching the teachers and realize I would really enjoy doing this:) I will keep you posted. my workouts for this week were as follows:
Monday Lunch Hour: P90X Plyometrics
Afternoon: Cardio 45 minutes, Weights 15 minutes
Tuesday Lunch: P90X Back and legs
Afternoon: Cycle(the best sweat ever)
Wednesday Lunch: P90X Yoga X
Afternoon: Kickbox Cardio(killer)
Thursday no lunch workout
Afternoon: Circuit Boxing Cardio(amazing).
Friday Afternoon: Bodyworks Plus Abs

I have to tweak the workout schedule, my house has been neglected because I'm not home and am super tired. I have signed my daughter up for Gymnastics and Cheerleading, oh how life is becoming busy, but I will embrace it.

Goals for next week: Workout at least 5 times. Workout twice in one day twice next week and make it to the Aqua Fit and Latin Heat classes. I'm on a Mission!

Who Knew:)

All I had to do was ask and POW I had a freakishly overwhelming response regarding my last post on Facebook and Twitter. I have a friend who has a group that meets every Saturday to discuss weight loss, what they are doing, how they are doing, weigh in, exchange recipes and everyone brings a healthy dish and swap recipes to keep their menu fresh, so they won't get bored and revert back to old habits. I met up with the girls on Saturday. It was a very informative meeting and they are all kind of doing their own thing. I picked up a couple workout buddies and am going to participate in a couple classes this week. I will set up some sort of workout schedule, but I won't take much of my evenings up(spend that time with the kiddies), hopefully I will get back in my early morning regimen(6am) and workout, then work. We shall see what happens.

P90X today, what the heck was I thinking, my legs are killing me. After my shower, I felt great though! I'll keep you posted.

100th Post:)

Hey everyone!

Yes, this is my 100th post! I have been actively taking my meds for my thyroid and they are helping me with my plateau! I'm very excited about that! I have dropped 3lbs. this week and am moving along with this journey. I have 2lbs to get me back to where I was in continuing this journey. My workout buddy is leaving my department at work and my workout session will be changing in about 3 weeks. I love her, she's a great inspiration. She has lost over 100lbs and she just made lifetime for WW. I'm not interested in being that small, but I am interested in being smaller, duh! So, I posted on Facebook appealing to family and friends looking for an after work workout buddy. Thing is I have 2 small kids my hubby works most evenings and I will have to workout with someone who won't have much of an issue with my schedule. I didn't think I would get much response. The response is overwhelming with family and friends who want to do some form of activity and you know people are always good to talk about it, but not so much of being about it. It should be interesting to see how this plays out. I'm not a big fan of using the machines, I get bored easily, I love the classes or workout DVD's or even the fitness for on Demand. I will keep you posted on what happens. Anywho, I just wanted to check in and let you know that I am still chipping away at this weight loss and am still moving forward to changing my life and to become 40 lbs smaller.

By the way, I finally got my camera, so I will posting pictures of myself and vlogging on Youtube! Excited about that.

April!!!

Finally, I went to the doctor to get a full workup. I was really concerned, my weight loss just stopped! I mean after I had the binge a couple weeks ago, I literally STOPPED losing weight. I was killing myself with all of these crazy workouts I found on Youtube and changing up my eating habits and still nothing was happening. I was staying the same. Don't get me wrong. I'm doing 22lbs, but at this point I could be smaller. My 30th bday is approaching(August) and I have a really fly dress I want to wear, size 10. Gotta reach my goal. Anyway, after testing and ultra sounds and scans. I have a freaking Thyroid issue. My doctor has put me on meds, to try to get in under control and then I will be able to see some results again. I will keep you posted!!

Gain

Last week's binge:

3 slices of pizza with everything on it.
Ice cream with fudge
Lorna Doone cookies (6 times)
Big Mac meal, large Sprite and an apple pie
I'm sure I had something else just can't think of it at this time.
unlimited snacking, mindless snacking for no apparent reason, worked out once and I fell into a slump.


I weighed in today....5lbs! I gained 5 mutha freaking pounds! No one's fault but my own. My WW leader was so disappointed, she kept telling me that I was rocking it out, what happened. I have to figure out a better way to handle my freaking stress. Anyway, Today begins a new week and my goal is to stay on track. Whatever comes my way, I need to take it, deal with it and don't try to "eat it away". I'll keep you posted. I had to keep it real.

Bad Week

Daylight savings time change.
Hubby had another seizure.
Exhausted.
Work is demanding.
Pressure to get the job done.
Exhausted.
Overwhelmed with all other things outside of life.
Eating horribly, as I am overwhelmed and I am an emotional eater.
Exhausted.
Didn't weigh in this week because I knew it would be bad.
Not proud of what's going on right now, but I had to keep it real.
Exhausted.

Hopefully, my weekend can afford me some rest and I will start the next week with a fresh perspective.

Until next time, take care of you and yours.

Update!

So, this has got to be the worst week I’ve had in my life…no really!
I digress.
I. WILL. Move. Forward.

On a totally different note....

Workout front: I am killing myself in the gym(in a good way). My workout partner(she’s lost over 100lbs., she’s a great motivator, she’s too skinny in my opinion, but I think she looks good) and I have been working out with DVD’s, recruited more people and now have a class full during lunch hour, sweating hard. DVD’s we’ve used are:
P90X
Insanity
Weight Watchers Full body
30 Day Shred
Zumba
Sweating to the Oldies!(my idea!)

I suggested that we do the stairs…as in running up stairs! WHY! Who the heck am I fooling, I’m not a mass machine just yet, but baby this is a wonderful workout! I feel good AFTER the workout (during, not so much) and I have decided to have my stair workout 2 days per week, its excellent strength training and I have decided to get into the Breast Cancer Awareness Marathon this summer. My work is having an American Heart Association walk this May. I will be doing a lot of stuff outside with my kids this summer and this winter, has been very productive, I feel good…I’m not there, but this is a lifestyle change…so give me some time.


On the eating front: Although, I am a stress eater, my diet has been amazing since Sunday (3 day binge after I got off of my fast last week). My official weigh in was not a gain, I stayed the same. I’ve been eating clean and lean, getting my water in. My skin looks great; I got a compliment about my skin the other day. I was told I had a glow…I haven’t heard that since I was going through the wedding planning process or prego. I know that can’t happen(my hubby took care of it), so I’m clearly eating the right things!

On the work front: I love where I work, not my job, but the organization is amazing. I can work out out on my lunch hour, it’s all about healthy living, they totally care about their people, but I have come to the realization that it’s time for me to move along. I have been working here for about 8 years, fresh out of college and the time has come to make a very important decision, if I am going to move forward and feel like I am contributing to the organization this may not be the place for me….I will keep you posted. There are some stars on the horizon with my name on it.

Keeping It Real

I can't show my face....I ought to be ashamed...I am, ok about 40% of me is.



I am mad at me for pigging out like I did, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I was so happy to eat meat, so breakfast I had real sausage(Jimmy Dean Maple), for lunch I had a salad with cheese and bacon! Bacon, really...and for dinner I went to my favorite soul food restaurant and had baked chicken, yams and cabbage oh it was good! I enjoyed every bite. Friday, I had girl scout cookies and enjoyed every bite of those Tagalong devils and then Saturday evening, I had honey chicken and crab rangoon from my favorite chinese spot. OMG, whose stomach was tore up! Not mine, got a belly of steel but when I got up and weighed myself(unofficially)on Sunday I was up 4lbs! 4lbs since Tuesday! So, yesterday, I put myself back into gear..as my sis in law says, "we fall down, but we get up" I think she got that from Donnie McClurkin, but still she said it. Anywho, this is a wake up call. I should have not done that, but because I'm human it happens....welp was on track all day yesterday and feeling better today...I'm going ice skating on my lunch with some co-workers(this should be fun as I don't know how to skate), good times! Anyway, hoping for a better week. SMH

March!!!!

Here we are 3rd month of the year and I am very happy with the results I have so far. I am, however, concerned regarding the weight loss that I have lost during this February 30 day fast. I would like to hope that losing a total of 24lbs in 2 months is a good thing, but I don’t think so. I’m moving back into a new/normal eating pattern, which will consist of:
Fruits
Vegetables
Fish
Non-dairy
Carbs twice a week
Lots of water intake

I will see what my new plan will do for me, but I am interested in keeping the weight that I lost off, but to be quite honest it’s not healthy to lose that much weight in a short period of time. I will see at my next weigh in what my new eating plan is doing for me. I am officially on day 29 today and I feel closer with God, clear mind, clear thoughts, more productive and a better overall relationship with the hubby. I really feel like this was a great experience for me and my husband to parent better and make better decisions as a couple.

I have been looking over food journals for January as well as workout schedules for the past 2 months I can say I have not been good at keeping my commitments when it comes to working out. I don’t like to spend a lot of time in the gym. I get it in 45-50 minutes (usually my lunch hour) unless work gets in the way and I shower and eat at my desk. I love the convenience and the option to do so, because its just not easy with 2 little ones at home and a husband who is always working or doing his school thing. But, I’m making it work. I think once the weather gets better I can also get my kiddies out there to partake in the fun.

I am pleased to announce that I have recently shopped at Platos Closet (goal) and Forever 21(jewelry: couldn’t wait to wear bracelets and rings!). I’m on a new mission, because my goal is to wear dresses or skirts all summer. So, my goal is to get my legs and thighs....I will be happy once I hit another 30lbs lost.

Day 20 and 25

I know I'm a little late with my Day 20 post, but I've had lots going on. My family and I traveled to see my bestie(2 hours away this weekend) and we just had so much going on that I totally forgot to post. My daughter had to have surgery on Tuesday, so I'm busy with her and it's just life. Anyway, I found junk food that I could eat. There is always somehow to sabotage yourself no matter how healthy you eat. I've had guacamole(spicy and mild) with tortilla chips and animal crackers. You can be a vegan junk food eater:( Its sad, the past 4 days have been sabotaged, by yours truly. I'm still drinking my water, but that kind of slowed me down. I'm still on full mode on my fast. I'm proud of myself because we went to a bday party and I wanted a slice of cake so bad. I just had my green smoothie and while we were on the road I had a salad packed with black beans and veggies on the ride home. I was satisfied, but I still thought about the cake. I won't say I'm going through withdrawals from my social networking but, family members have had babies, friends are getting engaged and I'm totally missing out on all of the wonderful pictures, so I am looking forward to that again. I have decided that I will continue the vegan lifestyle for another 30 days. I will see if I can maintain this lifestyle. The first time I slip up I will let you know! It's either vegan or vegatarian for me. I've found such great alternatives to beef and chicken, while on this fast, but I am missing my fish. So in the past 24 days I have lost 15lbs.! Very pleased with that, but I think in order to keep that weight off in such a short time period I will have to continue eating right. Well, I'm headed to drink more water!

Day 15

The hubby was on a mission to find vanilla chai for me and guess what!!! Bolthouse Farms has a Vanilla Chai Tea, made with SoyMilk. I had to get used to the taste, but I am a fan of it. The past 5 days have been easier. I went to the grocer and spent quite a bit of time there. I found a cookie that I can eat…excited about that. They are normal cookies (Barnum & Bailey’s Animal cookies). I was very pleased; because I really needed something sweet and it hit it right on the spot. I love the Bolthouse Farm Brands they are delicious, my absolute favorite is Green Juice, it looks gross, so yummy and so good for you. I have been eating lots of steamed vegetables, cabbage, some chipotle sweet potato fries, that I want to scarf down more than 12-15, but I am also eating without trying to get full or pigging out. This is a sacrifice, very pleased that the past 5 days were better than the 10th-15th day. I have been drinking 110 oz. of water each day for the past 5 days and I will say I have been to the bathroom A LOT! I can barely sleep because the bladder is going crazy all night. I feel good and I feel like I really HAVE to get the water in. I like that I am not as hungry because I am full with drinking my water.

I had to go bra shopping this weekend. My bras are too big for me. I’ve lost 2 inches up top and went down a cup. My wedding band no longer fits; it slid off of my finger last week, which scared me. I went to JC Penney and picked up a little ring and decided to wear it until I’m finished with my journey. Wrist bones are popping out and I can see ankles and feel hip bones! I cannot wait to see my collar bones! I will SHOUT from the mountain top! Baby steps, I tell you, Baby Steps! I can say that I am extremely pleased with my energy level and what this fast is doing for me.

My husband is looking really slim in the face and his belly is much smaller and all of his dress shirts and slacks are way too big! Looks like we will have some shopping to do. I won’t purchase new winter clothes, but I threw everything out last fall so, I will have to lose weight and buy new spring/summer clothes! And what do you know; I’m well on my way. Keeping it off and learning how to make better choices is where the true work comes in. I am at the half way point and I need to start thinking of what my permanent changes will be. Spiritually, I am growing, physically I am getting stronger. I really am keeping a firm hand on this. I will say this is the first time I was really serious about something and didn’t cheat or not follow thru on it. I think the fact that its accountability to God is what’s keeping me on track. I want to be pleasing and I want to have a clear mind to really focus on what I’m putting in my body and what I’m taking out. Weigh in today had me down another 3lbs. That’s another incentive to pull through the last 2 weeks of this month on a high note.

I have a pretty busy week. My children and I are going to Sesame Street Live and then the weekend we are traveling 2 hours to see my godchildren for their bdays. Whenever my kids and god kids get together you better watch out! Have a good weekend on tap!

Day 10

Keeping it real....

I am craving a Low Fat Vanilla Chai Latte, Skinny Cow Swiss Cheese and something sweet. I did cave on the sweet portion, I had juice last night. About 4 oz. of it. I'm trying hard to make good choices. I would like some fish as well. Ok, anyway, I'm praying for strength to make it through. It's ok to have the juice, I thought I could give up meat, sweets, soda, dairy and white carbs and it not be much of a struggle(Insert "Silly Me" Here). My goal is to keep this up. I can do this!

I have been eating tons of veggies, putting together some really spicy stir fry. I've been into the shirataki noodles(tofu noodles), tofu and I've decided to try some Morningstar Brand freezer foods. The salads and leftover stir fry at lunch are starting to bore me. I'm a little concerned with my sodium intake, but let's see.

My energy level is not bad at all. I'm up, my thinking is not cloudy and I get a lot done during the day and well into the evening. I've been feeling like I'm coming down with the colds my little ones have. But, I'm able to push through it.

I'm trying not to count down the days for this to be over. I need to embrace this experience but the past couple days have been a challenge.

Today will be workout day 3. Couch to 5K week 1 Day 3. Working out has been great, I have been getting in 45 minutes on my lunch hour.

Weighty Wednesday

After dropping my first 15lbs. I was really proud of myself! I decided that I would start wearing makeup and had a little more confidence about myself.

I was working out, 2 days per week for an half hour and just basically watching what I ate during the day, the afternoons I would binge. I didn't make healthy choices. So, I was stuck on the scale. Plus, while in th gym I didn't push myself as hard as I could have and it was winter time so I still indulged in the comfort foods that I loved. As you can see, in my pictures I am starting to like who I am and I was trying to get comfortable with the person I was becoming.

I weighed 215 in the above pictures. I wore a size 1x shirt, size 16 jeans and I was winded while playing with my children. I was a couch potato and didn't want to spend too much time in the gym. The hubs would encourage me to go and I would leave in my gym wear and go to Target to shop....oh how time has changed. I needed to post this today to motivate myself to workout this morning.

Much love,

Jen

Weigh In

Weigh in today was magnificent! I lost 8lbs!!!! I know I said I wouldn't post until the end of the month, but I am so excited about it!

Right after that post on Saturday night of how well I'm doing and blah blah blah. I had a craving, I wanted chocolate and cookies and pop and fries and burgers and chicken. My daughter woke up at 4am, screaming due to a nightmare about spiders. She kept thinking they were crawling on her, she wouldn't sleep in her bed, walk on the floor or sit by herself. She wouldn't eat. That morning I decided to go to church, kids with me, no sleep and while there I received a message that my mom had to go to the hospital for heart problems, my daughter was having some kind of tantrum all day of seeing spiders(it was so stressful, at one point I thought I was going to have to take her to see a psychiatrist or something) and my little boy's asthma was going wild. So, what did I want to do....EAT! The hubby kept the kids and that was wonderful, so I could check in on my mom. But, I wanted to eat all of the above things and more. I staved off the hunger by being in the present and just dealing with the situation, it was hard, extremely hard, but I got through it. After I found out the hospital was keeping my mom for observation and testing and my kiddies were ok. I went to Chipotle and had a vegatarian salad, with guacamole, no cheese, no sour cream. I didn't get the fix I needed but I didn't crave all of those foods anymore. I journaled about it, it felt good to get it all off of my chest. Sometimes life will stress you out, but eating will not change anything, it will only put you in a food coma. In my case, for sure because I will eat until I am numb, but that doesn't change the problems at all. My family is doing much better today and I am blessed.

Anywho, my goal is to workout 4 times this week. Today was day 1 and I decided to get back to couch to 5k. Today was day 1 of that. Feeling good.

How do you handle stress?

Day 5 Vegan Fast

YO! Who knew!

Let me just say...I FREAKING ROCK! This fast has been amazing! I've been so focused, food is really not an issue. What I've learned thus far is, if you make healthy choices, you will have lots of energy to do more important things. Food is really not that important. (Did I just type that?) Ok, so I have been eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Big crunchy green salads, I tried chickpeas and almond milk for the first time ever. I decided that during this journey I would try 2 new things each week and see if I would make that apart of my diet. I am a fan of the chickpeas, the almond milk..the jury is still out. I've made a pizza, vegan crust, all veggies and marinara, no cheese. I love cheese. I have not tried the vegan cheese yet. I wanted to gradually try new things.

Let me tell you how the past 5 days have gone. My children can not keep up with me. We are doing arts and crafts, dancing around the house and outside playing in this snow! I can't believe all of the energy I have! It's unbelievable. I have been able to stay on the kids, to keep the house in order(cleaned and presentable to company), on top of the laundry and making time for my honey and I. The hubby is struggling. He wants all of his regular foods(I'm not making him do this), but it's very interesting to see the difference between the two of us during this journey. Anywho, the old me, would be stuck in this house...with all of this snow, depressed, eating and laying in the bed. This person, has been up, taking care of home, reading, enjoying the kiddies, working out, spending time with the hubby and not nearly as tired as I once was. Listen, if this keeps up, for the energy alone, I will become vegan:)

Tonight, I made Teriyaki Veggies in Spicy Rice. It was good. The trick to this is staying positive and enjoying the new flavors that I'm having and blocking out what used to be. I will be back on Tuesday to post on weight loss from WW meeting and in 5 more days I will update you on how I am feeling.

Until then,
Much Love

Vegan Fast/Auntie Oprah/Sacrifice

Hello:)

Today, began the 1st day of the Vegan Fast and I will say this has been easy to step into. My husband and I started this morning. I consumed all cold foods, fresh fruits and veggies. I'm not as hungry as I thought I would be and I'm actually upbeat and have been catching up on laundry and a little cleaning. I will update every 5th day, I don't want to turn this into a vegan blog, but I am very excited about this fast!

Auntie Oprah: I DVR Oprah each day and I was pleased to see her show today featured a 7 Day Vegan Challenge to her employees. She had her employees(378 of them) sign up for the challenge and supplied them with groceries from Whole Foods to get them motivated to eat vegan meals. She also had her lunchroom serve all vegan foods that entire week. Lisa Ling went to a slaughter house to show you how the cows were, uh, well killed. It was really tough to watch. I'm not saying I'm totally giving up meat, but I am presently going to work the next 30 days and see how it works for me. The result of her staff's week was incredible, over 200 people lost weight, about 80 or so gained and the rest just decided it was not for them and quit! It happens!

Sacrifice: I also decided to give up Facebook and Twitter for the full 30 days. I was pleasantly surprised to see my friends and co-workers were very sad to see me go:) I'm not on Facebook much, but a girl loves Twitter! One of my co-workers stopped me and asked about the Fast and what surprised me the most was she knew the name of it(Daniel Fast). I had no clue this was an actual fast(goes to show how much I researched this fast). Today, I spent quite a bit of time online, reading blogs, web pages and also watching people experiences on Youtube regarding the fast. I know this will be a challenge, but I think after its all said and done...I will feel AMAZING!

I wanted to post this so I can look back at it on Day 3 while I'm going through withdrawals!

Recap and New Month Goals

Weight: 190? How many pounds off? You better not be 200+lbs any longer. If so, this is just sad, don’t purchase anything, get serious! What’s wrong with you?
Are you working out each day you are at work? 4 days per week, 30 minutes nonstop!


This was a reminder on my calendar this morning… January 31, 2011. I wrote this back in December.
Man, if I was not losing this weight as I should I would be pretty pissed and motivated right now to do so. I know that my weight loss does not average 2lbs. a week, some weeks I lose ounces and a week or 2 later I lose 3lbs. I have to remember that. So, I will be sure to set attainable goals for the month of February.
January was not as good as I thought it would be I am 1 lb shy of making it to Onederland! Kind of bummed I didn’t. I can say this, my process has been slow, but that’s ok, because I know the weight will stay off. I’m not in a hurry to lose the weight I will enjoy this journey. This month started off with a bang, I was working out 4 times a week, but the last 3 weeks I worked out 2-3 a week and then the last week, my eating was crap. I need to learn new methods to dealing with stress. I am on a mission to learn how to deal with stress in a healthy way. HELP!

As you all know, I am participating in a Vegan Fast with my church for the month of February. I am very excited about introducing new foods into my diet and learning a very different way of eating. It’s a new experience and I am looking forward to it.
NSV: This morning I tried on a couple size large sweaters, very pleased that I can fit them. I will give myself about 5lbs before I wear them, because I like to layer in the winter. I have been taking my measurements and updated pictures with my phone. I am getting a new camera this month so I will begin taking and posting pictures. I’ve had multiple digital cameras in the past and in some way or the other they have died. My new camera is definitely an investment, so I am looking forward to getting it and possibly posting pictures soon!


Goals for February:
Get all my fruits and vegetables in. I had to learn the hard way in January, just because I am eating fruit doesn’t mean it’s all good; it’s still sugar, so watch my intake.
Make the best of sacrificing meat this month; try 2 new vegan recipes a week.
I need to work out with a focus. Couch to 5K, 3 days of cardio and 2 days of toning. My ultimate goal is to run a marathon this August for Breast Cancer Awareness.
Continue to get my water in. I am noticing that while drinking water my skin looks good, I’m not hungry all the time so, that makes me feel good as well. My goal for the month of February is to lose 5lbs. My mind has a higher number in mind due to the fast, but I don’t want to play myself so I am going to focus on something that’s attainable.

Love...

My husband has seizures. We’ve been together for 11 years this year(married 7) and up until a year ago the seizures were just a conversation. I was told he had them by himself and his family, but it was just a memory because prior to 2009 he had just one in 1997. I thought to myself my little sister has had seizures all her life so, if he had one, I know exactly what to do. Her seizures are just sort of a staring off into space seizure. November 2009, he had a seizure and then again February and March 2010 and sometime again last summer. The seizures are pretty violent, its hard to cope while he’s having one. It’s a violent shaking, loud noises and I have to somehow control his body so he won’t hit his head, or hurt himself. My husband is a big guy, so its tough while he’s having one. The worst part of it all is…he remembers nothing. I have to call EMS after it happens. His BP sky rockets to a ridiculous number, he twitches and he has to go on oxygen to wake up. When he comes to, EMS ask him simple questions:

What’s your name? How old are you? What street do you live on? What year is it?
He will answer those questions like a child, he remembers his mom’s address, his age is 10-12 and the year is always off. Although, since this has been happening more likely than not, I have gotten used to it or so I thought… Yesterday morning, my husband had a seizure, EMS came, oxygen, blood pressure and he was answering all of the questions right until they asked him who I was and he said he didn’t know. He looked me right in the eyes and said that he didn’t know. That was really hard for me. After a moment or so, he looked at me and asked if I was alright, that made me feel a little better. But, it was the hard to see someone you love go through something like that in a blink of an eye and he not know who you are. I asked that they take him to the hospital for testing. To make a long story short, he is fine, he knows who I am, but to be in that space, as brief of a time as it was, was brutal. The worst part of it all…he remembers none of that. So, I had that experience all by myself.

He has been taking his meds, but the seizure was brought on by stress. My family, as is any right now is going through a lot. I try my best not to speak negative, this time is only making us stronger. The best part of it all is being able to go through with people who absolutely LOVE you. God knew! He knew! To give me the two most fascinating, hilarious, loving children who complement each other so well, while going through this rough patch. I tell you the truth. My children have been my comedians, my therapist, my teachers in this tough time. If you have children, you totally understand… and if you don’t let me try to explain just a little. I was crying a couple nights ago after praying and thanking God for the change that was coming to my life. My son came into the room and got in the bed with me, wiped my tears and hugged me so tight. He left, came back with his sister, she said Mom, everything will be alright, we love you and Jesus does too! That’s love. When you have this unconditional love and this bond that only you can share with your babies, it’s a wonderful thing. I couldn’t have planned this life that I have, and wouldn’t change it for the world.

Fast

I'm so excited about the fast that my husband and I will begin Feb. 1! Last night there was a meeting with the men of the church and my Pastor gave all of the men documentation regarding the fast. My husband and I have been going to this church for 6 years. We just recently got serious about the church when our family started growing. We wanted to build a foundation for our children and we wanted to have more of a fellowship with believers as well. Both of us decided to join a ministry last year. I joined the Youth Ministry and he joined Security. While this has been a wonderful experience for the both of us we have never done the fast that my Pastor has impressed upon the church every February. The reason for the fast is to get the congregation to understand what they are eating and the biblical passages to back it up. We have doctors who are also active members at the church and if you have a condition the doctors will also give free consultations during the month to be sure that you are doing ok. I'm excited because the hubby was able to bring back great information regarding the fast last night! A week early, so I could marinate on it....this year we have options!!!!!! You have four fast options to choose from:

DANIEL - Fruit, vegetables, juice and water only. No processed foods at all.

DENIAL - No food from 6AM to 6PM.

DESERT - WATER is your only beverage option for the entire period of the fast. Choose healthy meal options.

DROUGHT - No television or internet social media (ie. Facebook and Twitter) with the exception of the news and religious programming.

I'm very excited, because I know that I'm not the only person who didn't participate because I didn't think I could, now that we have options, its attainable. Before starting this journey, I didn't think I could eat egg whites, vegan cheese, whole grains and zero meat at all. I have gone 2-3 weeks at a time doing just that.

Note: I am not fasting for the purposes of weight loss, I am doing this for spiritual reasons.

Thanks for reading. I'll be back later to discuss my WW meeting.

Throwback Thursday

...I was going to call it Fat Friday's. But, I was offended by that myself. I have old portraits of myself to post on random Thursdays or whenever I feel the urge to motivate myself. Hmm, as I'm writing this post I will post on whatever day I need motivation, there it goes. After the picture I will tell you how much I weighed, the way I felt, my clothing size and my eating and activity habits. So, here goes:


This picture was taken at my sis in law's wedding(Nov. 09) shout out to Mrs. Arnold! This was a full 8 months after my son was born. I am the exact size I was while pregnant with a 9lb. baby in my belly:( Sad. I was wearing a Body Magic and I was still super fat. I was very uncomfortable at this weight. It hurt to walk up the stairs in my house, my ankles and my feet hurt so bad, I went to the gym once or twice a month. I ate McDonald's 4 or 5 times a week. My go to food in the winter is butter pecan ice cream and oreo cookies and any carb you can find. My size 18 pants and 2X shirts was how I covered up and I hated the way I looked but, I didn't want to give up my food. I feel sorry for this girl, but I'm glad I can look back at her and realize that I am no longer this person. She weighed 230lbs on a 5'2inch frame. That was my highest weight while prego with my second child.

I've come so far and I don't want to go back! Moving forward! BTW, I drank 98oz of water yesterday and I ran to the bathroom 27 times(yes I counted)! But, I tried on a pair of size 12 jeans last night...verdict, they are extremely tight and they zip, of course I need to drop some more weight before I can fit in them perfectly....but I can pull them up my leg and zip them!!!! Made me feel so good, that I had another glass of water and a grapefruit before bed!

Scale is the DEVIL!

Happy Hump Day! Yesterday was my WW weigh in and I lost weight! I decided I'm not going to focus on the number until the 1st of each month to see if I reach my goal for the month. Anywho, I was very pleased with the loss, however, I am a scale junkie. I have a wonderful digital scale at work and home and the difference is just in ounces, however, I hate that when you are at your lowest and then on final weigh in day you have a 1.5lb difference:( It's ok, but a loss is a loss. I just...whatever. So, I have made a conscious decision to focus on the actual weigh in day(Tuesdays of each week for the next 18 weeks(weigh in day with WW)), I have become so obsessed with knowing my weight each day, that's silly. Last week I worked out 4 days and I feel good that I am making that apart of my week. I hate working out, but I like the shower afterwards! Getting in the gym is the hard part, so once I'm there, I'm at it and working as hard as I can for 45 minutes to an hour. Now, today, I will not workout at work(the gym has been stupid). I have been getting to work at 6am when the gym opens because on my lunch hour everyone is there and I know its because of the new year and everybody and their mom is trying to have a weight loss deal go on for the new year. But, I'm over these people though. Get a life! fall off already...kidding, but not really. The kiddies and I are headed to Bally's after work today. The last time I took my kids to the gym with me(the 3 of us were sick with a stomach virus for 3 days). I'm not sure how I feel about it. Those public daycares are so freaking germy, I would hate for them to get a cold, my immune system is not strong at all. If the hubs didn't have class this evening they would stay home, such is life.

Update on my Eating:
Fruits and Veggies- still going strong. I have made a few soups, that I am proud of. I'm trying my best to really get this under control. My church is pulling a Vegan Fast(happens every February), my Pastor backs it up with scripture and teaches on it to help you cleanse and have more of an open mind learning about the meats you eat. That begins Feb. 1....the dairy may be hard to give up.
Water- On track, been drinking 72 ounces the past 6 days and I have been running to pee! I am the pee machine!
Exercising-I think I will add an additional day, so far this month its been 4 days. I will close this month out with 4 and start February with 5. We shall see.

Checking In

Welp today was not bad, we are getting a bit of snow here in MI and no one's happy about it but...its WINTER! It wasn't too bad driving in it. I had to go to the fruit market, I sat at my desk today and I was bummed because I didn't have any pears, apples or grapes to snack on. I picked up all types of wonderful vegetables and am so excited! I had 6 bags of wonderful leafy vegetables, great fruits and I spent about $23! I will forever, be at that freakin' fruit market! Today, was day 1 of WW(2nd session), I am definitely on again to be accountable weekly for my weigh ins. Still moving forward in my fruit and veggie task. I had 32 ounces of water today, tomorrow I'm going to make a move and go up another 8 ounces. I would like to drink half of my weight in water daily. That is a task in of itself I will keep you posted. Although, today(a little tmi) your girl was in the bathroom and not just peeing after drinking all of that water and tons of veggies today. I'm trying to determine if I want go vegetarian or vegan(I want my dairy sometime). Anyway, moving along this January and still on task with my workouts. I got up and went to the gym at 6am this morning. It's been a long day and one of my favorite show is premiering tonight(The Game), so about to snuggle up in the bed, make sure the kiddies are asleep and relax!

Night Night!

2011 Update and Goals!

Happy New Year!!!

I have been gone for a little while and I am so glad to see a new year. New Beginnings, a great way to start over and try my hand at a better life. I have decided to set a few goals for myself each month.

Presently I am 203lbs. I'm a little bummed that I didn't make it into the new year under 200 but, I was a bumbling fool eating and having everything under the sun the 4 days leading to the New Year.

I still have no news for the job, I should know by Monday, I asked for a follow up meeting and the hiring manager is out of the office until this coming Monday.

Goals for January:
-Work out 4 days a week at least 30 minutes
-Detox (fruit and vegetables for the next 7 days), currently on day 2 and doing well. I'm detoxing because I want to be vegetarian. Feeling good about all of the fresh fruits and veggies I'm eating.
-No eating after 7pm
-Joining WW again at work, for accountability purposes
My goal at the end of January is to weigh 197. I believe its achievable. If I make that goal, I will buy jewelry(Brighton), that will put me at a 25lb loss. I'll keep you posted.