Thursday, August 31, 2006

Drink ME!


I was in Bartells the other day and saw this sun tea maker. While I love sweet tea, its too much sugar and the caffine robs me of the water I think I'm getting when I drink it.

So, I decided to just put water in - no teabags - and make it a goal to drink as much of it as I can, refilling it with the Brita filtered water.

So far just psychologically its working. When I walk by it and the sign says, "Drink Me" it reminds me to go ahead and full up my glass.

I've also given myself permission to fill up more than one glass. It seems like when I go into my office, I'll see a mostly empty water glass. I tell myself, "Go ahead and finish it". So, I do. Even if I have three glasses in three stations around the house at different levels, the important thing is
I AM MAKING OPPORTUNITIES TO SUCCEED.

Which leads me to ask - what other things are you ladies doing that make it easy to succeed?

They actually fit!

I did my measurements and I have lost 10 more inches! 3 1/2 off both my breasts (thank the good Lord) and hips each! Yippee! I was feeling kind of skinny yesterday after measuring so I decided to pull out some clothes Kristina past down to me when they were too big for her. A pair of capri's, short skirt and slim shorts all sizes 16- 18 womens. I thought to myself, " I wonder if I could at least pull them up now?" Not only did I pull them up, I buttoned them and zipped them too! I looked so cute! I think I will have to have my husband take me dancing this weekend and I will wear the short jean skirt with my brown suede high heeled boots. Hee hee, I am loving feeling healthy and in control. I went to walgreens yesterday and the cashier lady that I have made friends with said, " You look so good, did you change your hair style? What's different?" I lost 26 lbs! I responded. She proceeded to pump me up with compliments. When I left the store I don't even think my feet touched the floor, I was floating!

My goal for this week is to lose 1 pound. I am still journaling, drinking my water and working my butt off at the gym (literally hee hee) 4-5 days a week.

I am looking forward to the Fall Folic to meet and see all of you wonderful women.
Smiles,
Kimiko

P.S. SueAnne do you want to ride together? Let me know.

Wednesday, August 30, 2006

Quote of the week...

"Kristina... you're withering away to nothin' " This given to me by my chiropractor this afternoon. You gotta love it!

Jules checks in...

Hey, group, I haven't posted in awhile! Sorry about that. Well, as slow as the weight loss is going, I am still very excited and have many things to rejoice over! Kristina measured me last week, and in less than 2 months, I have lost 10 more inches! Here are my numbers below. These represent total losses since I started in Jan. I don't really have any numbers from my highest weight...But one could only imagine! I think the numbers off my waist and my hips are really amazing. Oh, and my bust size at the highest place used to be the band size at my smallest circumference! That feels terrific.
Bust (-5.25)
Waist (-10)
Abs (-3.5)
Hips (9)
Thigh (x2) (-6.5)
Arm (x2) (-3.5)

Difference: 37.75 inches lost

Another exciting event in my life is the obtaining of beautiful clothes from my Yommy, who has shrunk out of her size 14's and 12's (she is now in 10's and 8's!!) I have been enjoying so many beautiful things from her closet and there is more to come! She is a bit shorter than me, so some of her things don't work, but I have been blessed to the point of needing to buy more wooden hangers! Thank you, Yommy! You have amazing taste.

So, there it is. I am still journaling every day, but have struggled with the exercise portion. Our YMCA has been closed for repairs. I have been keeping quite active with painting, gardening, marathon house work, and a bit of softball. Our softball season has come to an end (thankfully), but I know that I could never have played last year on the team, I was so out of shape. I need to get back to the Y on a consistent basis.

Onward and upward, ladies!
Jules

Info on the Fall Frolic

Hello ladies, there has been a request for some more info about the Fall Frolic, so here it is: We are meeting at the Northgate mall Red Robin, which is actually connected to the mall, on Saturday September 23rd, at 12:00. And Julie had put quite a bit of money into the trophies last time, so I'm requesting if you are in fact coming to this event, that you pitch in $15.00 a piece, payable to Julie Paine. I'm sure that the earlier the payments come in, the easier it would be for Jules to get what she needs ahead of time without a financial strain on her. I'm not going to post her personal info on line, but I know that almost all of you have her # or email. Otherwise, some of you could just pay her the day of the event. Those who are planning to come, could you please let us know ASAP? It would be appreciated.

Kristina - fall frolic

Could you please post the info again for this event? Time, day, place and if we are to send money, where to and by what time? Thanks!
Kimiko

Tuesday, August 29, 2006

Checking in

Hello Ladies,
I am so encouraged by all the success everyone has had over the last week. Congratulations! We are not quitters and if we fall down we get back up! We will make all of our individual goals as long as we continue to put one foot in front of the other. I have good news. I have been working out so hard, staying within my calories (most times) and drinking my water. However, it seemed like my weight loss was happening at a snail's pace. My goal for last week was to lose 1 pound. I would have been ecstatic if I could just do that. So when I weighed myself today I was doing the hallelujah dance! I lost 3 more pounds! For a total of 10 lbs since August 1st and 26 pounds since the beginning of the year. My hard work is finally beginning to pay off. Getting out of the 2oo's before the end of the year is now looking attainable. Thank you for all the support. I don't know if would have pressed on during the times I was discouraged if it wasn't for all the uplifting and encouraging comments I have received from you all.
Smiles,
Kimiko

Monday, August 28, 2006

I have lost another .8 pounds. There is also 6.25 less inches around my body. I am pretty excited about that. Yesterday I went to a party my co-worker put on. She sells Herbalife. I ended up buying it and started this today. There are lots of vitamins, green tea, and protein shakes. Today went great. My healthy life journey started 3 weeks ago and I am feeling better every day. I am doing it!!! My mind frame is better then it has ever been. I really want to thank all of you for your encouragment and for posting your stories. All of our trials and succsses are learning expericances for me. Best wishes for a healthy week everyone.

30 days....


Hello all! Okay, I am so close to goal, but we have had such a busy few weeks and I have just not been very motivated to get those last few pounds off! Sooooooooo...I am commiting to a 30 day period of time to get these last few pounds off. I am working to be at my goal by then! Today was my first day. I also want to share, that I am doing this for my mom as well. She has commited to go on a 30 day weight loss program prior to lap band surgery. She has thought about this for sometime and decided this is the best route for her and I am very excited for her as well. I am going to be supporting her during this process and I am beginning by commiting to the next 30 days to stay on my program. (not that I have any intention of quitting when it's over!) So, I wanted to post my intentions here, get it in writing so to speak and I will hopefully have news of making goal on here very soon! By the way today was day 1! Here I go...29 to go!

Sugar Doc report

I forgot to update you ladies (I updated my other blog!). Fasting insulin should be under 17, ideally under 14. At my last Sugar Doc appointment, my insulin came in at a whopping 59. He was talking meds etc if I didn't do something, and fast.

This week??? My insulin was 14. This was huge. He still wants it lower, so if I don't get it down by my next appointment in November, we may still do Metformin. However, I'm planning to work my butt off and hopefully I'll get it down.

At the doctor, he told me I had lost 12 pounds. I kind of laughed and was like, "look again". It was a clerical error, and he realized I had lost 22 pounds (by their scale).

It was so nice to be at a doctor's appointment where I wasn't being lectured or told what was wrong with my body. It felt really, really good. I plan to keep those up.

Twenty two and ZERO!

Twenty two, because I weighed myself today (my normal weigh-in day) and I was 189.4. That is down 22.4 pounds!!! I'm so excited. I have gone beyond my first goal.

Which brings us to the next goal!! I want to lose 20 (more) pounds by about Thanksgiving- my next Sugar Doc appointment is 11/29, just after Turkey Day, which will be my official weigh-in for this goal. I know I can do it, I did it before and plan to do it again. It's about the same amount of time, 3 months, and I'm starting today.

So. I will probably count both #s- from my original weight of 211.8 and today's of 189.4. Lisa, do you mind resetting my ticker to say 42.4 pounds to lose? Or from 211.8 to.... 169.4? (that number seems SMALL to me!! Also, it's where I was last time I was successful at weight loss... and it's where I stalled.)

Looking forward to 2o more GONE!

So, Suzie Q - how'd we do?

Just checkin in on you Sista...

Back on that wagon?

Saturday, August 26, 2006

Off the wagon

Hello everyone,

I am off the wagon. Been off for about a week (been hanging on by my boot strap for a while). Can't seem to get back on. I say this to you with my empty bowl sitting next to me. That would be my second big helping of potato salad. HELP!

SueAnne

HOLY COW!!

Since Monday, by body fat has gone down another .6%! I am currently at an exact 10% loss in my body fat percentage. AND, I've lost another pound, bringing that total up to 73 pounds.
I suppose that my walking routine is majorly paying off. I am SOOO encouraged this morning, and just wanted to share the joy.

Friday, August 25, 2006

I've been a bad blogger!


I have been such a baaaaaaaaaaaaad blogger! My life just gets so crazy. I was so excited to go to my Weight Watcher meeting this week. I had hit my goal weight 6 weeks before and if I had not put on over 2 pounds I got to go to Lifetime. On Lifetime I just have to weigh in once a month and stay within 2 pounds of my goal. I can attend as many meeting as I want and it's FREE!!!!! Yeah!!!! I can't tell you just how exciting it was to reach this goal. I'm actually at a goal weight about 8 pounds over what Weight Watchers recommends. I went to my doctor and he checked my BMI and cholesterol and said I was at a good weight. Weight Watchers accepts a doctors note. That doesn't mean that I'm still not going to loose that other 8 pounds but at least I don't have to pay for the meetings any more. I am so happy with my weight loss. I really do feel like a new person. I feel younger and - yes - even sexier. I have indulged in buying beautiful new skinny, clingy clothes for fall and I can't wait to start wearing them. Every time I get tempted by some delicious goodie I just stop and think about how wonderful it feels to be a size 8 instead of a size 14. I have stuck with Weight Watchers longer this time than ever before. I'm also getting rid of all my larger clothes. I have never done that before. I always kept them "just in case". Well, this time I am committed and besides, I won't have anything to wear if I put on weight. I feel better about my self and my health than I have for at least 20 years. Even though I'm a grandma I'm feeling more like a 30 something sexy chick. Well, maybe I am getting a little carried away. I just want you all to know that it feels so good to stick to a plan and have the success that you work so hard for. The secret is to just stick with it. Don't berate yourself if you slip up a little just get back on course. Some of you have already achieved incredible weight losses. I am so proud to be part of this blog even though I don't post often.

Twenty

I DID IT.

Today is the day of my diabetes doctor's appointment. My first goal was twenty pounds by today. I got on the scale today, and 20.4 pounds. I weighed 190.8.

I. am. over. the. moon.

Thanks for your support, ladies!! I know I'll need it for my next goal! :)

Thursday, August 24, 2006


Hello everyone,
I weighed and measured after 18 weeks on the prism program. The picture on the right is me before I started and the picture on the left is me sporting my new WAIWMIWLI size MEDIUM pink hoodie.

This six weeks has been the hardest really. I've not always stayed on program, but the scale is still moving in the right direction, although slower. I guess now, I am averaging about a pound per week. Here are the numbers.....

6 pounds lost (29 total)
1 1/2 inches lost (18 1/2 total)

My present goals have been to increase the weight training workouts and I did that in July until I re-injured my neck during a golf tournament. So, I am back in physical therapy, but will be able to jump back in the saddle again soon.

I appreciate you all! Can't wait for the fall frolic!
SueAnne

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

Lifetime for Yommy!!!


I just want to brag on QueenLivalot...My Yommy...That she made LIFETIME for Weight Watchers this week!! WhooHoo! She has lost 22 lbs., total! Way to go, lady! Congrats and many happy, healthy, weight maintaining weeks ahead! We tip our hats and tighten our belts for you!

(Clarrification) LIFETIME is what they call it in WW when you reach your goal weight. It also comes with benefits, like being able to attend meetings at no cost....nice.

Love you,
Jules

The Fall Frolic event


Okay, we need to figure out where we're going to be meeting. We're down to just 31 more days ladies. Last time we met at the Northgate Mall, and I thought that that worked out really well. But where do you all want to meet? I wouldn't mind going to Northgate again, and meeting at Red Robin again as well. What say you? I'm a planner, and I want to formulate a plan. Input wanted!

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

Three Cheers for Produce!

I have done nothing but eat today, but that has been a good thing. Especially when you look at what I've been eating.

9:30 - banana
11:00 - fresh peach (really juicy!)
12:45 - watermelon
2:00 - cucumber salad - cucumbers, oranges, red onion, cilantro - yum!
3:15 - tuna fish - with tomatoes, apples, onion, garlic, basil, and balsamic vinegar

Usually by this point in the day I'm getting hungry, no matter what I ate for lunch. All I have done today is eat, though, and I am full. At less than 500 calories. Someone will have enough cals left over to have ice cream for dessert, even after pasta & pesto night!

Here's to summer, when all fruit is in season!

Lisa

P.S. In the best news I've heard all week, Blue Bell makes a "no sugar added," lowfat version of my favorite ice cream, Great Divide (half homemade vanilla, half dutch chocolate, oooooh!). It's 90 calories a half cup instead of 160 and it tastes really good too. I must have done something really good for karma to catch up with me like this! :)

That is IT!

I have changed my goal, to ten pounds lighter. I've been searching out "ideal" body weights for my height, and have seen that my old goal was at the very end of some of the scales. In fact, it wasn't even on some of the scales. Recently it has been made clear to me that I am in fact NOT large boned, but only medium. It's just that I've been carrying around all of that extra padding for so many years! So girls, 145 pounds is my new goal. Please, PLEASE help me get there. I really want to do this for myself.

Monday, August 21, 2006

SAHM exercise help

I would love some suggestions for how to get in some much needed exercise when there are three tag alongs. Right now we can not afford gym memberships. We do keep swimming but I know the pool will close in the middle of September so I am planning ahead. I have exercise videos and we have a bike. I know those should be enough to keep me going but some days the thought of the bike just turns my stomach. Like right now I could be up there riding it while watching the View instead I am complaining about not exercising...hey get your hiney up there and ride that bike...Ok...problem solved...thanks for all your advise and help....

BTW--some days I think SAHM could stand for Slave at home instead of stay at home.

The beauty of numbers

I weighed and measured this morning, even though it was about a week early, I wanted to check my progress. And in three weeks time, I've lost another 2.5 inches, and three pounds. But you guys, those three pounds were ALL fat!!! My body fat percentage has gone gone another .9%, in just three weeks! So anyhow, now my total inches lost is 63.5, and my whole body fat percentage has gone down 9.4%. Can anyone say AMEN?! I know that I can. : )

Sunday, August 20, 2006

Jules Help!

Julie,
I have no idea what I did wrong. I tried to update my weight ticker and ended up erasing mine. Would you please update it for me and email me directions on how to do it again. Thanks!
Kimiko

Inches...wonderful little things!

Hello Ladies,
This week was a tough one for me, so I am glad it is through. I struggled quite abit with insane cravings. I also had a family reunion where there was tons of yummy forbidden food. I wasn't perfect but I didn't go crazy eating things that I shouldn't, I am pretty proud of myself. I knew that I would want to eat at the reunion, so I worked out extra hard in extended sessions at the gym this week. My hard work is beginning to pay off. My body is starting to reshape its self. I have added several skirts and shirts size 2x to 20 to my give away bag. My upper body is getting smaller, so many of shirts are falling off the shoulders and not fitting in the breast area anymore. Yippee! You know that new exercise outfit I showed you guys the other day? Well, I have to take the 2nd pair of pants back and get a smaller size! The 2xl size I was wearing is now to baggy ( I even washed them in warm water to shrink and still wasn't enough) Wooo hoo! The scale has even been kind to me. Since August 1st I have lost 7 pounds. I know I am not suppose to weigh until 9/11 but I just wanted a sneak peak. Unfortunately, 4 of those seven pounds was weight I gained the weekend before I started this program. I am now down to 224. I am moving forward and that makes me very happy. My goal for this week is to workout 5-6 days in the gym ( I only did 4 day - double workouts this past week). I would also like to lose 1-2 pounds. Have a great rest of the weekend.
Smiles,
Kimiko

Saturday, August 19, 2006

I've got GREAT news!

I received a message today from our life insurance agent, as I recently had some tests done to get some coverage on myself. Anyhow, he said that all of my hard work has paid off, as I am now considered a "preferred" client, because of my excellent health! Quite a change from last winter ladies, quite a change indeed. : ) I don't just want to look good, I want to be healthy.

Last photo from my trip to Hawaii....I just wanted to show you folks that I was able to surf again today with my husband. He got up over and over again, and I was very proud of him.

While my board was really slippery (even with wax) I did manage to get up a time or two...just not as much or as far as Ernie.

My reason for posting is not to show off (much) but more to show how proud I am of my ability to surf. Its a big deal for me. When I was here in June, I told myself I wanted to do better the next time, so I did a bunch of weight work and strength conditioning.

It WORKED! I was able to paddle and surf for MUCH longer this time and I was so happy.

All that to say - keep up towards your goals - small and big - because it works girls, IT WORKS!

Sneakin' In

I snuck in and changed my weight-loss counter, but I couldn't sneak back out without saying hello. My weight is very slowly on the decline, so my ticker needed changing. I'm still making bad food choices, but I've noticed that those bad choices happen when I put off grocery shopping. I need to set a day of the week aside for groceries and make it non-negotiable because when we start running out of healthy choices I start turning to convenient foods like pizza, polish sausages, dinner out at our favorite Mexican restaurant, and stuff like that. When I do that my weight loss halts and even turns into weight gain.

I've joined Mel, over at The Amazing Shrinking Mom, on her exercise streak, and after I walk today that will make five days of exercise in a row for me. It's probably the only reason my current food indulgences have only stopped my weight loss instead of reversing it. I'm doing some grocery shopping today too, so tomorrow is a new day!

Friday, August 18, 2006

I'm still here!

I'm actually in Kentucky, visiting my mom.

I didn't hit my goal last week, i actually stayed exactly the same.

I didn't post because I had a horrible week. Not foodwise, but just... emotionally had some stuff going on. To my credit, i didn't eat my feelings. For that, I am SO PROUD of myself. So proud. That's a big deal step for me.

On the other side, i didn't have such a great day today, in Ky. We went to Dairy queen for lunch. I got a salad, yes, and grilled instead of crispy chicken, but that's about where the good choices ended. I won't regale you with the details, as they are sordid. I will tell you I am going to make a valiant effort to make better choices tomorrow, and even Sunday when I'm back flying and eating airport food.

I don't have an update for you on the calories, as I am at my mom's and tired. I promise, to stay honest, I will do two weeks worth when I get home. won't THAT make for fun reading! :) But I need to stay accountable, somewhere. I'm hoping to have hit my goal this week, but not... optimistic, I guess. BUT I have my doctor's appointment with the diabetes MD on Friday, and my BIG goal was 20 pounds by then. I WILL make that.

I'm glad to hear of all the positive success, and glad when you ladies are honest when things are not going well.

~Paige

Oh Paaaaige...Where Aaaaare Youuu?

I'm dying to know - did you reach Goal Numero Uno this week?

(2 lbs. in a week is kind of alot, but I've been thinking about you and really hoping you'd hit it either this week or next week. Oh, the suspense!)

Thursday, August 17, 2006


I had to share my day with you ladies. I am in Hawaii (again) and today, I swam with dolphins. Not only that, but I got a DOLPHIN RIDE!

I can't tell you how very, very happy this made me. See that smile?

Thinking of you all,

Elicia

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

On the Sunnyside

I feel like every time I post here lately, I'm just bringing a big ol' bummer down on everyone. "Ooh, work was lousy today and all I want is bourbon and chocolate." "Ooh, everything went wrong today so I went to the Y - be proud of me." "Ooh, I'm a pound away but I was bad ...cheer me up." In short, I feel like I've been needy and quite possibly the world's biggest whiner. Who needs to be like that?

Time for an attitude adjustment.

Today, I budgeted for the breakdown that I could see coming from about 7:30 this morning. Did you know that there are 600 calories in a full pint of Blue Bell's Great Divide ice cream? Scary enough, I did. Off the top of my head. I knew that's what I wanted for dinner so that's what I did - and stayed within my calories. And got some calcium in the process.

In good news: Despite last week's indiscretions I still managed to drop a pound. We're more than halfway through the week. I've been going to the Y even when I'm so tired on the way there that I think I might drop. I go on vacation in 10 days. I haven't quit my job (yet). And each and every one of you amazing women has accomplished something this week that not too long ago you were afraid of, were resistant to, or thought was impossible. I'm so proud of each of you.

And from now on I'm all about looking on the bright side. (But I wouldn't mind a prayer or two if you happen to think of it. The world's been laying me a little low here lately.)

Your very own repentant blogger,
Lisa

Pistachios

Does any one know how many calories are in pistachios in the shell? I know 1/4 cup of shelled pistachios is 170 calories but I don't know how to figure the calorie per pistachio is the shell so I can make a serving from a bulk purchase. Help?

Seriously addicted!


I am loving working out! If you had asked me 4 months ago if I would enjoy or even desire to work out 3 hours a day, I would tell you I would rather put tabasco sauce in my eyes. I just got back from the Gym and I feel so good. I can tell that I am losing inches and firming up. I know that the more muscle I build the more fat I will burn. However, If I didn't feel so good, I would be discouraged. The last time I weighed my self ( the final time until Sept. 11th) the scale hadn't budged. I know that muscle is heavier than fat. So I keep my head up. The way my clothes are fitting don't lie. In fact, I did go out a purchased new workout gear that fits better than my old baggy sweats.

I have a family reunion this Saturday and I know I will want to eat. So for today and the rest of the week I have postponed my morning walks with my friend and have opted for an extended morning workout at the gym. Today I did weight training on my lower body and 2 hours on the bike ( I burn over 700 calories on the bike alone!) I will do a 2nd aerobic work out this evening. Well, have a good rest of the week and I will talk to you all soon.

Tracy,
It was so awesome to read of your weight loss this week. I know you are feeling high, great job!

I zipped up my gown!!



My husband humored me, and helped me into my wedding gown this morning. After nearly 13 years, and bearing four babies, I feel like I've acccomplished quite a feat. This is a large milestone for me... I am extraordinarily pleased today!

A blast from the past!


I went into my daughter's bedroom today and found this photo of me sticking out of her desk drawer. Yikes! This was taken last August, at Ryan's wedding. This was about 40 lbs. ago...geesh. It is encouraging to see my progress. Some days, I feel like the journey is just too long. Now I see that it is so worth it!

I needed this little pick me up! Oh, and by the way, it is my 223rd day on the Prism program. Kudos to me.

Jules

Tuesday, August 15, 2006

I jogged a mile tonight!

I was going down to walk on the trail this evening, and I was feeling a little more energetic than usual and decided to try to jog a little further than I have. Well, thought I, lets see if I can jog for a straight 1/2 mile tonight. I made it to the 1/2 mile mark and said to myself, lets see if I can make it another 1/4 of a mile, without stopping, and I did, and I still felt pretty good. So I went ahead and pushed myself for another 1/4 of a mile... equaling a solid mile. You guys, I was able to jog a whole mile without stopping! I haven't done that for about 15 years! I feel like I can do anything. I feel unstoppable.

Weekly Weigh In

Just got home from WW and I lost 2.7 this week. We started school this week too. (I homeschool 6 year old twins.) I have been praying a lot more and have had a quiet time most days this week. I have been giving God control of my food and my appetite. He is taking away the cravings for food when I am angry, tired, lonely, bored, sad, and afraid. Sometimes it is tough to feel these feelings instead of stuffing them down with sugar, starch and fats. Old habits die hard. Some of these feelings are pretty intense. As I am learning how to feel them again, I am turning to God as my Comforter. It is amazing how I use to feel like this all the time. It is nice to be sane and in control of my feelings. It is so freeing and refreshing. I have not felt like this in a LLLLOOONNNGGGG time.

From the reading I have been doing to help me better understand my problems with food, I know I am compulsive overeater. I am reading a wonderful book called Holy Hunger by Margaret Bullitt-Jonas. It is about one woman's journey through food addiction and compulsive overeating. I so identify with some of her experiences. I am also reading the books of James and Philippians during my quiet time. Life is good. God is in control and I am not!!!

Monday, August 14, 2006

1 week down....

My first week is up and I did wonderful. I lost 7 l bs!!! After working out tonight I was so nervous about stepping on that scale but anxious too. I would say you don't know that feeling, but I know you all do!

My goal for this next week is to work out 5 days and continue with writting down my food intake.

Sunday, August 13, 2006

week 12 update

Well folks I have lost another .6 pounds. I was bummed it wasn't more but it was still a loss. I am sticking to most of my goals and I am very happy with myself this week. I have been drinking all my water, I have stuck to my -one latte' a week-rule and I have only had dessert once a week as well. Over all I feel better about my food choices and that I am shaping this program to be something I can do for the rest of my life! Oh- I am also artificial sweetener free! Haven't had any in almost 3 weeks! I have found carbonated flavored waters at Costco and I am drinking those when I get bored with plain water! I still need to work out more. I am managing about once a week. This sounds so lame after hearing all you gals talk about how much your moving your J.Lo Butts!!! I just need to get moving. So this week my main goals are to work out 3 times and to take my vitamins daily. (Still need help remembering)
Overall I am proud of the progress I have made. I am also proud of the habits I am now creating. So I will be patient with myself while I try to create a few new good habits.

I measured myself again and I have lost another 1/2 inch off of both my waist and my hips. I have lost a total of 3 1/2 inches off of my waist- 2 1/2 inches off of my hips and over an inch off of my thighs! Oh ya, the girls are down one inch too. Not thrilled with that but if that's what it takes to get into those shorts I bought this Spring then so be it! I have also dropped a size down from a 12 to a 10. So, can't complain too much!
I will update you again next week!

Goodbye to Miss Mandi

We had a fab time at Mandi's goodbye party and we felt so skinny and pretty! Between the two of us, we have lost 75 lbs. Since January! It was a blast getting all the complements and "Oh my goshes!" I cried like a baby all the way home, knowing my girl was moving....I don't know what my life will be like without her smile....

Saturday, August 12, 2006

Weekend hot momma

The weekend is here! And I am so glad! Working out twice a day 5 days a week and working on my landscaping I tend to be in sweats all week with my hair pulled backed. (You know the frummpy look.) After our PM work out yesterday, I did my hair and pulled on a pair of slimming jeans that I haven't been able to wear in a while, an off the shoulder top. I slipped on my 3 inch open toe stilletos and ladies let me tell you, I felt like one hot momma! Even my teenage son said I looked good! Wow! Talk about flying high. My hubby and I went out on a date and he couldn't stop looking at me. He called me his "trophy wife" Heee Hee. I think I am going to go to Lane Bryant today and get me some "cute" work out gear and kiss Ms. Frumpy goodbye! Here's my numbers for yesterday.
Week 2 - day 4
120 Ounces of water
Am 60 minute aerobic walking
Landscaping
PM 45 minute treadmill
Lower body weight training - (I'm so giddy, I am starting to see a little shape and lift to my behind! And let me tell you as a black woman that is a good thing!)
1300 Calories

Have a wonderful weekend ladies and I talk to you all next week

Friday, August 11, 2006

Quote of the week!

This given to me tonight by a woman at Curves, who has not seen me in a couple of months: "Oh my WORD Kristina!! You've got a J-Lo butt! You used to not really have any shape to your butt, but now you've got a J-Lo butt!"
I just had to crack up. I know it's not true. I mean, I am a lot shapelier than I used to be. But come ON!
Anyhow, she certainly made my night. : )

Thursday, August 10, 2006

Baggy pants in the house!

I went out to dinner with my hubby tonight after working out. We were both starving. However, I was so proud of my self. I was so hungry because I had missed my afternoon snack but I still ordered the more healthy chicken breast w/ no sauce. I only ate half of my chicken and a 1 of my rice balls. I left the restaurant feeling very content and proud. This is only my 2nd week on prism, but I have seen such a huge change in my attitude towards food. I use to think about eating or not eating all the time. Now I am making better food choices and eating more fruits and veggies, and although all meat is allowed on the plan, I tend to stick to the lean chicken and fish. I have more energy now that I am eating more and I also have more diversity in what I eat than I did on my previous plan. The exciting thing is that my husband has joined me in eating healthier and working out. Well, here are my numbers for the last couple of days.

Week 2 - Day 2
60 min aerobic trail walking AM
120 ounces of water
2nd 45 min cardio workout PM
Lower body weight training
1064 calories

Day 3
60 min aerobic trail walking AM
120 ounces of water
2nd 45 min cardio workout PM
Upper body weight training
1226 calories

Happy Birthday, Coreen!


WhoHoo! Happy Birthday, cutie pie! We all are raising our voices and typing our keyboards to wish you a terrific, splendific day! Blessings on you, Coreen, and may your dreams come true this year!

Love, Jules

Here's Tracy!


When I introduced Tracy, Blogger wouldn't let me add a picture, for some reason. I just wanted you all to see this gleaming smile, this beautiful woman who is so bravely starting on this journey! Welcome again, cousin. Make it a terrific day.

Jules

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Please Pray

Please pray for me today. We are having AC issues that will probably cost a bit of change. I am stressed and angry at myself as I could have prevented it by turning off the unit last night instead of letting it run. I really want to eat over these feelings but instead I am turning to my source of strength, the Lord God Almighty, who is stronger and bigger than all of this. He alone can sooth the longing to eat over deep emotions.

Here was my recovery devotional today:

The smallest seed of faith is better than the largest fruit of happiness.--Henry David Thoreau
Life's crises seem terrifying and endless when they are happening. As we reflect on these stressful periods, we begin to realize that they provide a chance for change and growth. We get a feeling of hope when we think back to past problems that seemed like mountains of despair at the time. Today, many of our mountains of fear are behind us. We have been able to climb these mountains in our lives even though we may have had to take different paths than we had planned.
Now we know that, with faith, we can meet every challenge --that we are given no obstacle we can't turn into an opportunity.
Today let me be willing to let my Higher Power lead me in an orderly direction.


Thank you for praying.
AMy

How many calories to reach your goal?

I discovered an online tool that will help you determine how many calories you should take in each day to reach your weight goals by a certain date. The tool takes in account age, height, current weight, activity level and the date you want to be at your next goal. If your desire is too aggressive it will let you know that too. I hope it helps someone. I can't remember how to provide a link directly to the sight but here is the web address: www.calorie-count.com You will want to select the "allowance" button. Have a great day!

P.S. If someone could write me back with quick instructions how to link sites with a post I would appreciate it! Thanks.

Smiles,
Kimiko

Tuesday, August 08, 2006

On my way to being a hard body...



Well today I took the first step anyways! It was my first day doing weight training. And I loved it! I can't hardly believe it, but I do. I am going to be sore as all get out but I really enjoyed working out at the same gym with my hubby and burning more calories. It is almost 9 pm and I still have energy! Here are today's numbers.

Week 2 - day 1
120 ounces of water
60 minutes of aerobic trail walking this morning
Upper body weight training
abdominal work out
and a 2nd Cardio 20 minute workout this afternoon
1302 Calories

Fourteen and Eighteen

Fourteen- is the size skirt I fit in this week. I'm sure I still fit into a sixteen quite easily, BUT I fit into a fourteen and was NOT squeezing myself in. That was a VERY nice moment.

Eighteen is the number of pounds I have lost. I was down to 193 this week for a loss of 3.2 pounds!

I'm happy with how this is going. I'm proud of myself because I have had alot of discipline. My attitudes are changing, towards food, eating out, myself...

I'm also SO proud of everyone here. From people joining (hi Tracy!) to people continuing to do awesome (helloo Jules and Kristina) to those getting losses in weekly, and those struggling. (sorry I'm not so great with names...). I love reading it all, because I remember joining. And it's so inspirational to see people who have lost alot, and are continuing to. And we all know I've been there and struggled. And am now just trying to keep losing, and keep making good choices.

Lastly, my triumph for this week: A weekend away (I went to my sister's to babysit for her kids overnight) and I brought alot of my own food and managed to make great choices. I brought the kids to McD's and just got a Diet Coke- which felt like a treat, seeing as I don't drink soda anymore (hello? I drink so much water I think I'd float away if I drank soda regularly). It was a good feeling to go away and still be in control.

Here's the numbers, my friends:

Thursday, 8/3: 1423 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Friday, 8/4: 1075 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Saturday, 8/5: 1385 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Sunday, 8/6: 1248 calories, 12 glasses water
Monday, 8/7: 1406 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Tuesday, 8/8: 1214 calories, 14 glasses water, workout

Down 3.2 pounds for total of 18, to 193. 2 pounds away from first mini-goal of 20 pounds, and 191.

My First Day

I would just like to thanks for all the nice words of encouragment. Let me start by saying that my weight has been a constant strugle my whole life, I was even born heavy @ 10 lbs 4 oz.

My plan started about a month ago when I joined a gym with a good friend of mine. Now today I started weight watchers. This is a program I tried in the past without exercise. Really, I think that every program works for someone if they have the right frame of mind. If your heart and determination is not there you will fail once again. So it is my time to succeed. I had a great first day and it isn't even over as I am headed to the gym shortly.

I have looked at some of your profiles and what a wonderful varity of woman. This is a great space and I thank Jules for intruducing me to you all. I look forward to participating and being encouraged by all your successes.

Update on a Better Day

Well, I didn't make it to the Y this morning which I kind of figured, but I've still been good. I remembered breakfast, and I took the train to work this morning - a half mile walk from my house to the station, two blocks to my office, and double that to get home. Every little bit helps, right? On to tennis tonight and yummy salmon with cucumber salad for dinner afterward.

Hopefully this will help all that guilt from last weekend blow over.

One foot in front of the other...

I just finished day 7. It was a good day. I am trying to stay as close to 1300-1350 calories a day. I don't want to have another calorie binge fest as I did this past weekend. My husband signed me up for his gym yesterday. We will be doing weight training 4 days week. This training, on top of my aerobic trail walking 5 days a week should get things moving. Here are my numbers for day 7.

Day 7:
104 ounces of water
60 minutes of aerobic trail walking
1327 calories

Have a good day everyone!
Kimiko

Monday, August 07, 2006

Welcome Tracy!

Hey, ladies, I want you to meet my sweet cousin, Tracy! I just "officially" met her this summer and I immediatly felt a connection with her. She is amazing and has a beautiful daughter, Merrissa (5). She is the wife of one of my favorite people on the planet, my cousin Daryn. Tracy is joining us for encouragement as she embarks on her weightloss journey. I feel priviledged that she is signing up with us because I believe in her and I know she is going to have such an amazing weight loss story when all is said and done, (ate, moved and lost, that is). Tracy lives in Montana, way up by the Canadian border. Let's give her a warm welcome and commit to her to hold her up as she walks her new path.
She is beautiful!

Jules

So Close, Yet So Far

I am officially less than a pound away from no longer being overweight. And I have been here for a week (which is okay). And I expect it to change (not in a good way) here shortly.

This weekend brought a lot of stress (office moved, over a week late, after the furniture moved the week before, and I spent the interim practicing law from a folding table with no files) and social obligations which required me to eat (barbecue, home-made ice cream, home-made bread, cookies, the works). To top it off, I couldn't get all my water today (I had to wear a suit and hose and I can't be peeing every two seconds when I'm in court all day) and I had one of the worst mornings ever (hint: if you're ever going to get messed up on a hearing docket, it's best not to do it when your client the former federal judge is in tow). Oh yeah, and I forgot breakfast.

But I'm leaving all of that behind. I didn't run downstairs to La Madeleine when I realized I didn't have breakfast (court, not virtue) and when I got home this evening, I took 30 minutes of me-time and then hauled my pity-party throwing self to the Y.

The alarm is set for 5:00 tomorrow morning so I can get back to the Y and although there is only a 50/50 chance I'll actually get up, it's okay because I have tennis tomorrow night.

My water is chilling in the fridge, and I'm heading back on track, in full damage control mode.

Umph.

Week 11 update

Hey gals-
checking in. I like the new logo and the sportswear! Way cool. Thanks to all that put energy into it. I wanted to check in with last weeks weigh in. I was down 2.2 pounds for the week! Yipee!! I am feeling like I am back on track. I did have to laugh about my last post. In my last post I mentioned my vacation, my lack of journaling and the chocolate chip cookies that I ate- well I gained .8 pounds right. So I had this great realization and recommitted myself to getting this weight off. The day after I posted about this weight gain- I started my cycle. He, he, he! Could it be that I confessed about eating chocolate chip cookies all because of a little pre-menstrual bloating? Oh well, I am too honest not to confess but it made me laugh. Either way the scales were down this week by 2.2 pound for a total loss of 13.8 pounds.
I am most proud of these things for this week
  • I drank a lot of water
  • I haven't had artificial sweetener for over two weeks
  • I only had one latte last week
  • I only had one dessert last week
  • I took 4 kids for a 2.5 mile hike

Things I am working on for next week-

  • getting to the gym 3 times ( I have already been once this week)
  • taking my vitamins daily!!!
  • keep drinking the water
  • sticking to my other commitments

I took a few pictures of myself when I started this weight loss plan. On Saturday my hubby and I were out and about and a friend took our picture. When I uploaded it I thought "wow, I am looking cute!"

I thought I would post them and let you see what I mean. I am almost to my halfway point. Yipee! I will keep you posted. Thanks Elicia for the great logo! Oh and Kristina could you update my ticker, pretty please? That would be 13.8 pounds lost! He,he,he!!


Jenny



Please spray for David and I

The last couple of days my two year old and I have not been well. I am totally sleep deprived, as is my husband, as David has kept us up the last two nights. I have some sort of intestinal thingy, and now I'm feeling pretty weak. This weekend was exhausting enough as it was, as my younger sister who is in Teen Challenge had a two day pass and spent the entire weekend here at my house. I had to be taxi driver and hostess despite how I was feeling, and now I am whooped, and still feeling icky. Any prayer support at this time would be very much appreciated!

Sunday, August 06, 2006

Somethings good and some need work...

Hello ladies,
I am now on day 6 of the prism program. This weekend has been hard for me. I ate a little more in portion size than I should. However, I went to a bbq with a huge spread of yummy rolls, snick snacks, pasta and potatoe salads and desserts. I didn't cheat on what I ate. I had meat with out sauce and fruit. So although I am not proud of my calorie count for the last two days, I am proud that I haven't cheated myself by cheating on the plan.

I have also decided to wait until the end of the 6 weeks to weigh myself again. The scale makes me crazy. I am simply going to focus on having the right attitude towards food, chosing the right foods to eat in the right amounts and exercise over the next 5 weeks. Hopefully my body will kick in to gear. I haven't lost any weight yet but my pants are loose in the butt and thigh area. ( that is better than nothing and I will take it!)

Congrats Kristina for getting out of the obesity range and fitting in to medium pants! I am celebrating with you!

Congrats Jules, on your continued steady weight loss, you will make your goal weight in no time.


Totals for the last couple of days
Day 4
60 minute aerobic walk
136 ounces of water
1109 calories

Day 5
No exercise
128 ounces of water
1600 calories (boo hoo)

Day 6
No exercise
128 ounces of water
1492 calories (boo hoo)

This week I only exercised 4 days.

Cool WAIWMIWLI Blog Swag at Cafe Press

We now have our own store at Cafe Press where you can purchase t-shirts, hats, bags with our cool new logo on them. I have everything marked at cost. If we want the logo to be bigger on the t-shirts, I will need to get a larger one from E. Come on over and shop you little hearts out!!

http://www.cafepress.com/waiwmiwli

I could add a Cafe Press link to our side bar if I knew how but alas, I don't.

One pound of fat.....



That's right, I have lost one more pound! I am steadily losing at one pound per week. I am very happy with this number, slow and steady and it still allows for my free day which is such a boost for me. I am getting so close to revisiting my original goal weight and I am thrilled. All my clothes fit better, I feel so much better and I am really having a good time with my program. I am still amazed each week when the scales confirm the loss...although I am expecting some possible diffiulties as I draw even nearer to that goal number. But we will see! I know I can always come to you ladies if that happens and I will be encouraged again! So for now, I down another ONE and I am very happy about it!

Down another 2 lbs. !


Yippee, I love my scale, I love my scale....that is what I am chanting today. Although, I know it is just the truth teller of all my hard work. I am down another 8 sticks of butter. I did all the math, just because I am Ms. Curious. I have lost an average of 1.2 lbs. a week. At this rate, I will be approximately 151 lbs. by the New Year! WhoHoo! I had originally hoped to be to goal by Christmas, but maybe....maybe...if I kick up the exercise....maybe I will be! I am so thrilled to be on this ride. It is a daily challenge that keeps me on my toes and I feel like a little fat-evangelist! I am making converts left and right! I love seeing the hope in people's eyes. And I love this blog. Being away for it for a few days and coming home to all the encouragement and the accomplishments is so terrific. You guys rock my world. This whole journey is so much bigger than me. So much bigger.
I went to a family reunion and I swear, I have never received this much attention from family members....not since I was prego with Rae 6 years ago! People were ecstatic about my weight loss, they all wanted to know what my secret was and all the silly old men (in their 90's) wanted kisses from the "pretty lady". Funny, awkward, fantastic! It was cool. And yes, most of the men, at first, commented on how nice my HAIR looked. PEOPLE, people, it is NOT the hair, it is the fat, the FAT! So hilarious.
Well, I am rambling now. Sorry. See you all later. Have a great and successful week. Keep up the honesty. Especially to yourself.

Jules

Saturday, August 05, 2006

I've been monkeying around with the look of the blog....

Thank you, Elicia, for the cool new logo! I have been monkeying around, using the trial and error method in the template, to incorporate everything. I know that the swirls are a bit flashy. I can change that if you like....Maybe something more serene like clouds or nature???

Let me know your opinions.

Jules

I've broken the obesity barrier!

I'm down another 1.4 pounds for the week. Dropping me into the low 180's, and O-U-T of the obese category. I am a happy girl. Very happy indeed!

Friday, August 04, 2006

Formerly ms. 2x has graduated to a size MEDIUM athletic pant!

Last night when I had finished doing my family shopping at Target, I decided to swing by the sales racks to see if there was anything worth trying on. And low and behold, I came across a pair of cropped sweat pants in a size medium. I figured, what the hay, I just might be able to squeeze into them. Well, there was no squeezing involved. They look terrific, and I feel amazing. I never would have imagined seven months ago being able to fit into a size medium ANYTHING. I'm still in a size large shirt, but I am NOT complaining. I used to wear a 22/24 top. I am loving the progress that I am seeing... all of my hard work is paying off!

Thursday, August 03, 2006

It is a wonderful thing..

It is a wonderful thing not to constantly be thinking about food all day. I pray that I will keep this attitude up. It is only day 3 for me but things are going well. The main problem I am having is making sure I am eating enough calories. Which is hilarious to me! I plan my meals a head of time and they satisfy me but by the end of the day I haven't taken in 1300 calories, except for today. Here are my post for the last couple of days. Thank you for all the encouragement, I really appreciate it!

Day 2:
136 ounces of water
60 min aerobic walk
40 min aerobic walk after dinner
1040 calories

Day 3:
60 Min aerobic walk
3 1/2 heavy lifting and digging doing landscape work
120 ounces of water
1346 calories

Hey Ladies! I just wanted to let you know I'm feeling better. I'm not 100%, but I'm 85% and that's good enough for me!

I was playing around this afternoon and fiddled up this.

Hope you are all eating well and loving yourself!

Jenny - I hope you're getting some personal time!

Julie - I hope you are LOVING the book you're reading right now!

Kris - I hope you do something today that you've never done before, and you LOVE IT!

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

Fifteen point... something?

Hey all. What's up?

This past week I did pretty good. I had one horrific night- Saturday - and made myself an alcoholic drink that cost me a WHOPPING 600 calories- PSA: just because it has milk in it does NOT make it ok. After that, even though I really had zero desire for it, I had a bowl of ice cream. It was such a weird thing. I didn't even want the ice cream, but I think I wanted the emotional satisfaction Iused to get from it. Thing is? I didn't really get it. It was just... ice cream that I didn't really want. A cold drink that tasted good but certainly didn't make my night any better. It's kind of fascinating, it's the first time in a long time I've eaten my emotions, and I don't think it will happen again anytime soon. It just... didn't even work anymore.

Tonight I went for Greek food. So the calories for today are a big ??? unless someone knows the calories for Mykonos chicken. Um, not that I really think I want to know- it was not the smartest choice. I will make a different one next time.

I can feel such a shift in my attitude. I don't always want ice cream. I don't always want crap and junk. I also don't understand it. Was there a switch in me that suddenly just got turned off? What happened? Not that I'm not happy, but I do feel like in order to keep it going I need to understand it better. We'll see.

On the exercise front? I'm LOVING it. planning to write about it on lessofpaige because HELLO talk about another 180. The pounds are coming off- the inches are not being quite as compliant, which seems so weird to me, but I'm committed to keeping up with it.

Here's the proof:
Tuesday, 7/25: 1145 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Wednesday, 7/26: 1425 calories, 12 glasses water
Thursday, 7/27: 1298 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Friday, 7/28: 1469 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Saturday, 7/29: 1967 calories (the drink, remember?), 14 glasses water, workout
Sunday, 7/30: 1158 calories, 12 glasses water
Monday, 7/31: 1384 calories, 15 glasses water, workout AND walking around the zoo all day
Tuesday, 8/1: 1562 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Wednesday, 8/2: 683 calories + greek dinner, 14 glasses water.

I lost .8 pounds. I'm just happy the scale is going in the right direction.

I actually did some jogging last night!

Well, walk/jogging anyways. I told you about that nifty trail near my home in a prior post. Anyhow, It's a three mile trail, so when I bring the family, we just do about 2 1/2 miles of it. And last night, I brought my four year old, and pushed him in the stroller. I walked at a rapid pace for the first 3/4 of a mile, ( they have markers every 1/4 mile). And then I thought, hey, I want to see if I can jog for a whole 1/4 mile... and I did, and I felt great! So then I walked for another half mile, and tried it again, and sure enough, I was able to make it for another 1/4 of a mile! I was so excited. I've not jogged in SOOOOO many years. So then I walked like another 1/2 mile I think, and was able to finish up the last quarter mile jogging. I was so proud of myself. And I was so hot and sweaty. But I did it, I did it!
I may have lost a lot of weight so far, but 185 pounds is still a lot of weight to be pounding the pavement with! I'd like to get to the point where I can walk a 1/4 mile, and then jog 1/4 mile, and perhaps eventually even jog the WHOLE thing. Wouldn't that be amazing? I am just so motivated to get into great shape. This goes so far beyond any High School reunion, which as you know, has already come and gone.

7/29: 1,450 calories, 15 glasses of water, workout
7/30: 1,449 calories, 12 glasses of water
8/1: 1,349 calories, 14 glasses of water, workout + walk in pm.
8/2: 1,494 calories, 14 glasses of water, workout+ walk/jog in pm.

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

The only sugar I will enjoy for awhile...


However, I may need to change her name to Splenda! Today was day one of phase one of the Prism program for me. I found it very empowering to plan my meals and snacks within the calorie limit before the day started. Doing this allowed me to not have to think about food much during the day, which was a nice change of pace. I was amazed how much I could eat on so few calories. I allowed myself 1350 calories but I didn't use them all. It was a good day!
120 oz of water
1130 calories
60 minutes aerobic trail walking
planned tomorrows meals and snacks

Tonight at WW

After a gain last Tuesday night I was down right pissed. I tried to blame my kids, my husband, a pan of rice krispie treats, the heat and I was really mad. I took my tennis racket out and started to hit balls. (therapy for anger instead of yelling at my family) I began praying and telling God how mad I was about it. I had lost 19 pounds and then had a gain. He listened and I heard Him say (in my head) "have you surrendered your food and your eating to me, you know I am stronger than it is?"

That night, I got down on my knees and admited that I was powerless over the food and that my eating was out of control(in the style of AA/OA) and that I was willing for God to be in control of it and my life and for me to live each day in His will. I have been taking my food one day at time and planning each meal instead of just tracking what I was eating as it occurred. I have had a quiet time each morning where I spend 15-30 minutes with God and repeat this prayer. I began to follow the Weight Watchers Core plan instead of the Flex Plan.

This week I had a 8.2 lb weight loss. I did not expect it to be so much. I have not been hungry nor have I craved food. I have had some times of stress but I pray about it and the desire to eat over it goes away. I have now had seven days of abstinence (three planned meals per day only/ no binges/ no trigger foods) I am grateful for the weight loss but this week I am more grateful for the sanity and control over food that letting God be in control brings. Once I plan my meals for the day, I just don't have to think about food again. I now have time to think about the house, my honey and kids and more creative venues.

Thank you Lord for YOU being in control. Thank you for today and for abstinence. Thank you for loving me.

For Kimiko (and others who want to know)

Prism Meal Ideas:

With a 1300 calorie day, I try to divide it like so:


Breakfast: 250-300
Lunch: 350-400
Snack: 100-150
Dinner: 500-600

I do not eat after 8:00 PM.

If I am working out, I try to add another snack in there.

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

Breakfast

Multi-grain hot cereal (trader joes, fred meyer) 130
Currants, 1 T 30
Raw honey, 1 t 21
2% milk, ½ c. 60
Pistachios, 10 34

Total as written: 275

Lower cal version (substitute Splenda for honey and 1% milk for 2%)
244

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

2 whole eggs, any style 140
1 toast with simply fruit jelly, 1 T 140-164(depending on bread)

Total: 280-304

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

Cherrios, 1c. 110
2% milk 60
Splenda or honey 0-21
½ banana 55

Total: 225-246

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

Rice cake 35
Peanut butter, 1T 100
½ banana 55

Total: 190

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

2 eggs, fried with spray oil 140
2T grated Cheese 58
Salsa 5

Total: 203

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

Lunch/Dinner

1 rice cake 35
Turkey lunch meat 60
Mustard (honey or Dijon) 10

1 C. of soup (Healthy Choice chicken and rice) 180

Handful of veggies (carrots, sugar snap peas) 40

Total: 325

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

Grilled Chicken salad

Pre-grilled frozen chicken strips, 3 oz. 110
Greens
Tomatoes
Carrot shreds
Onions (I just count 50-60 cal for all veggies)
Bacos, 1 T 30
Black Beans, 1/8 c. 40
1T Shredded cheese 28
Newman’s Own Light Honey Mustard, 2 T. 70


Total: 338
Or…to make above salad like my favorite salad at RR, I use 2 T. of Gregg’s Ranch Dressing (140) and 1 T. of BBQ sauce (50). I usually reserve this for dinner, as it is higher in calories, or if I have had a smaller breakfast.

Total as RR salad 468

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

Two corn tortillas(phase 2 and beyond) 110
Pre-grilled chicken, 3 oz. 110
2 T sour cream 60
Salsa 10
2T Cheese 56

Total 346 (290 w/o cheese)

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

Chicken breast grilled, 3 oz. 100
Melted cheese, 2 T. 56
Rice cake 35
2T. Guacamole 50

(Cook chicken and melt cheese first, then put on cold rice cake and guac. Heating rice cake changes it to a chewy consistency I don’t care for.)

Total: 241

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

1 c. brown rice 180
Chicken breast , 3 oz. 100
Broccoli or stir fried veggies 60
Yummy sauce, like red curry thai or stir fry 80

Total: 420

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

1 c. brown rice 180
Spaghetti sauce, ½ c. 60
2T. Parmesan cheese 58
Veggies 50
Rice cake with butter 70

Total: 418
Snacks



Rice cake 35
Peanut butter, 1T 100
1 T. Simply fruit jelly(smuckers) 40

Total: 175

***************************************************************
1 rice cake 35
Turkey lunch meat 60
Mustard (honey or Dijon) 10

Total: 105

***************************************************************
Blue Bunny supreme ice cream bars (Phase 2) 160

***************************************************************
20 pistachios 68
½ apple 40

Total: 108

***************************************************************
String cheese 80

***************************************************************
Raw Almonds 7/each

***************************************************************
Pistachios 3.4/each

***************************************************************
No sugar puddings 60
Raspberries(1 cal/each) 40

Total: 100

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



When I eat out

Red Robin:

BBQ chicken salad-no bread-substitute onion straws for chopped red onion
500-600 calories

Chicken Ensenada plate 400

Salmon burger(phase 2) 500

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

Applebees:

One of the weight watcher meals, convert points into calories by multiplying by 50

Steakhouse salad 600

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

Terriyaki:

Chicken and rice and salad (watch portions) 450

Veggies and rice 350

I found this and thought is was worth a read...

Metabolism: Give It a Boost

on Mon, Jul 31, 2006, 9:15 am PDT


There are two things that can help boost your metabolism: food and exercise.

When it comes to FOOD...

  • Don't eat less than 1000 calories. Your body and metabolism thrive on food. When you fast, crash diet, or restrict calories below 1000, your metabolism will slow down in a response to conserve energy. Imagine your metabolism as a blazing fire... Feed the fire consistently with the appropriate amount of high-quality wood and it continues to burn at a good rate. If there is not enough wood, the fire goes out... Too much wood, it grows out of control -- just like your waistline!
  • Eat every 4 to 5 hours. Because our bodies work hard to digest and absorb the foods we eat, your metabolism revs in response. This is called the thermic effect of food. Take full advantage and schedule meals and snacks every 4 to 5 hours.
  • Make breakfast a priority. Studies show that people who regularly eat a healthy breakfast within 2 hours of rising are more likely to control their weight. Some of the reason may be because you're lifting your metabolic rate after it's been in a "resting phase" throughout the night.
  • Protein with every meal. Eating all types of food creates a thermic effect and will slightly boost metabolism after consumption. However, the consumption of protein has the greatest metabolic boost when compared to carbohydrate and fat. Plus, eating the appropriate amount of protein will ensure you're able to maintain and build muscle mass (the more muscle mass you have, the greater your metabolism). Make sure to incorporate lean protein into most every meal (together with high-quality carbs) and get an appropriate amount each day.

    Daily Protein Requirements:
    Approximately 50% of your weight = daily grams of protein you need

    Some of the best protein sources include:
    • Fish
    • Chicken breast
    • Turkey breast
    • Lean red meat
    • Skim milk
    • Nonfat yogurt
    • Eggs and egg substitutes
    • Tofu
    • Beans and lentils


When it comes to EXERCISE...

  • Do aerobic exercise 4 to 5 days each week. It’s obvious that aerobic activities like running, brisk walking, swimming, and bike riding burn calories and increase metabolism while you’re working out. But interestingly enough, several studies show that aerobic activities cause your metabolism to stay increased for a period of time after exercising. Aim to do some type of activity for at least 30 minutes, 4 to 5 times each week.

  • Do strength training exercise 2 to 3 days each week. Lifting weights and/or doing other strengthening activities like push-ups and crunches on a regular basis will boost your resting metabolism 24/7. That’s because these activities build muscle, and muscle burns more calories than body fat. In fact, if you have more muscle, you burn more calories -- even while sitting still.

Stalled

Hello everyone,
My weight loss has stalled and so has my determination. I am looking for new inspiration. Thought I would change my workouts. I am on my computer at 5:30am with my workout clothes on and the preschooler got up early. Anybody get a good work out with a three year old hanging around? So now I am thinking, "why try".
We just got back from the Creation Festival at the Gorge in George and it was a great time. Didn't stay sugar free, but ate ok, drank gallons of water and sweated. It was a great time. You guys are doing great and I love your posts:)
SueAnne