Five days of serious sweating in a row!

sweat
Originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

This morning I worked out early before my honey left for work. I have a lot going on this morning, so I wanted to get my cardio out of the way for the day. I'm going back tonight to lift weights with my husband. I'm going to try to do five days of cardio a week, and hopefully I'll be able to integrate lifting weights three times a week.
Yesterday I had a kick butt day. I only did the elliptical for fifteen minutes, but I ran for a straight 1.7 miles right after that. I don't think I've ran that far in like 15- 16 years! I burned about 485 calories. This morning I did the elliptical for 16 minutes, and then ran for 1.5 miles. And I am feeling energized! I can't wait for the Spring, I'm going to be in great conditon. And just in time for shorts weather, HA!

Paging Kimiko, come in Kimiko...

HEY GIRL!

Give us an update - how are you doing?
Going ahead?
Stubbed a toe?
Drank your water?
Got more to go?

We wanna hear it!
We wanna cheer it!

Sis Boom Bah
Its your time to update-ah!

Thursday in the Minivan

Had Bible Study today, Tomorrow, our homeschool coop begins and I am getting ready to teach and co teach three classes and tomorrow night I have a leadership retreat so I am pretty stressed. I have been tempted to eat over the stress but I am not going to do it.

I started my day with the Lord.
I ate in control and did not overeat nor eat when I was not hungry.
Today is my break day from working out.
I drank 8 glasses of water.

Tomorrow night I will be at a leadership retreat for Community Bible Study. It will be a nice break from the day to day. We are staying in a hotel down the road. They have a gym and I am taking my clothes. I am just praying God will guard me from all the snacks that will be around.
I don't know if I will be able to post from there but I will on Saturday.

Pray for me!! Thanks
AMY

PS Saturday, Lisa and I get to meet for coffee!!!! I am so excited!

Something Clicked...

Hey ladies!

I've been waiting until I've shown real change before I've posted anything, cuz nothing I was doing was really that inspiring or life changing...just more water, less indulging of the weaknesses, more movement.

I have been 155.5 for three days in a row now. I am hoping this is a real number and not a water weight or other 'lying' number.

If it is real, then whoooooohoooo! If its not, well...I'll get it back off again.
I would really like to have a body fat test but am not a member of a gym, or the Y.
It would help me to get a realistic idea of what's the best for me.

Looking forward to seeing you all on Sat!

Journal update from Jules

Okay, ladies...I have been pretty faithful at this journaling thing again, which has surprised me, because I took such a long hiatus from it. Here are my recent stats:

1-8 Calories (after lunch...stopped writing after that meal, don't know why, but that memory bank is empty by now) 900, Water: 4

1-9 Calories: 1160, Water: 6, Workout: 18 min. on Elliptical 155 calories burned, plus one hour yoga class....ahhhh

1-10 Calories: 1474, Water: 8, Workout: Balance Ball

1-11 Calories: 1443, Water: 8, Weight: 162.6

1-12 Calories: 1650, Water: 6

1-13 Calories: 1605, Water: 10, Workout: Cleaned house ALL day, Weight: 162.6

1-14 Calories: 1600, Water: 8

1-15 Calories: 1479, Water: 10, Weight: 163.4

1-16 Calories: 1326, Water: ?, Workout: Sledding with children

1-17 Calories: 1500, Water: 6, Workout: 33 min. Elliptical 281 calories burned

Today so far: After breakfast: Water: 4, Calories: 348, and Weight: 162.2!!! I can't seem to break this number! It is laughable!!! Got to do it, though. I need to keep my calories in the 1500 range and I need to workout more consistently.

A couple of other goals I have been meeting for myself:

Making my bed each day
Keeping my bedroom picked up
Putting my makeup on and dressing to shoes (Flylady)
Keeping up with my laundry
Keeping up with the kid's chore charts
Mailing out birthday cards for January (I think I am late on Jenny's)
Making it to the chiropractor on time
Keeping my spending within our outlined bi-weekly budget

Love to all! See you at Red Robin in two days! BTW, Who is coming? Jules

This girl be S-O-R-E! But a good kind of sore...

Willem and I had our orientation with one circiut of the weights last night. I don't know about the other YMCA's but ours is hooked up through the Fitlinxx system. Anyhow, the gal helped us set our range of motion, and made sure that we were in the proper postion, etc... It's so cool, because you punch in your ID#, and it automatically reminds you of the proper settings specifically for YOU. And it records how many weights you've lifted, it keeps a running total. Just like all of the cardio equiptment. I am totally digging being a member!
After close to an hour of weight lifting, I took my backside over to the treadmill and ran for a mile and a half straight. I even bumped up the speed a bit, to 5.4 MPH. My goal is to be able to get it up to 6 MPH. I'm hoping that within the next couple of weeks to be able to do two full miles in a row. Now remember, this is a girl that doesn't necessarily enjoy running. Or didn't use to. It's so different to me running on a treadmill. I think that it could actually be addicting. : ) ( I know, I must have a screw loose. )

When you lose weight, you can fly down hills on a sled with your children!

Had so much fun with the family! Check out more fun shots on my other blog....

Loving my new thinner life!
Jules

An Icy Wednesday in the Minivan

I woke up to ice covered roads and sidewalks. The boys and I walked to Starbucks (about a mile round trip). They are so much fun to be with. After Honey got home I walked around the neighborhood for 30 minutes for a total of 45 minutes.

I read my Bible and prayed this morning.

I drank 6 glasses of water (with 3 more to go before bedtime).

I ate in control and in moderation. The pizza above is from Schwan's. I just discovered them tonight when the Schwan's man came to the door. It was so good and only 240 cal with 4 g fat and 5 g fiber. It tasted better than any ones I have bought in the grocery store and it cooked in 3 minutes in the microwave on one of those gray papers. I had 31 points today including 4 for that pizza.

Until tomorrow.
Amy

A great report from the Y!

Last night I had my fitness annalysis, where they weigh you, measure your fat, with this little do-hicky that actually pinches your skin a bit. They test your flexibility, your strength, and your heart rate recovery after doing some cardio. I guess I should start with where I need the most help, which is my body fat. They gave me a fair, to poor rating. I didn't see the actual number, but I saw the range. I wasn't discouraged though, because I know where I was at a year ago. At my highest, my body fat was at 44.2%. But the last report from Curves, I had gotten it down to 34.2%. A whole 10% change. Which is still very high, but certainly better. My flexibility was fair, but my heart rate recovery after doing some cardio, was in the 94th percentile, and my strength was in the 99th percentile.

After my annalysis, I went and had a serious workout. I did a solid 55 minutes of cardio. 25 minutes on the elliptical, and then I ran for a straight 20 minutes on the treadmill! Yippee! I walked for five minutes before, and five minutes after I ran. Talk about feeling encouraged. I was hoping to just be able to run for 15 minutes last night, but I somehow managed to make it to 20. This girl is gonna get into shape!

From the Minivan

I started my day with reading my Bible.

We had a luncheon at Bible Study today and I ate a half of a piece of cake. I ate in control and in moderation. I had 33 WW points today which is in my range for my weight.

I went to the Y and walked 45 minutes and was almost done when a friend arrived and I walked another 20 minutes while we visited.

I drank 9 glasses of water today.

Until tomorrow.
Amy

Battle won

I won my battle with myself yesterday and I have to say that I am very proud. Right now I know it is important for me to set daily, attainable goals. My "daily battles". I know that as I continue to win my "daily battles" I will eventually win the war against obesity in my life. Yesterday I took over 13000 steps with my pedometer.
I drank 72 ounce of water. A little lower than usual but heading in the right direction.
I stayed with my calorie limit ( 1300)
I journaled.

My goals for today is to drink 120 ounces of water
Do aerobics
Take at least 5000 additional steps with my Pedometer
Not to over eat at my husbands birthday dinner.

Have a great day everyone!
Smiles,
Kimiko

I'm In

I would love to join you on Sundays Julie. You can count me in so far. Maybe that will help me keep on track better.

Two point six

Go me! I was upset that the scale read 183.4, until I realized that last week I weighed 186. I'm still moving in the right direction, and heading towards where I was. I'm trying very hard not to regret the months that I spent tooling around, not focusing on eating well- they are what they are, and served me at the time. I am where I am now, and need to focus on that and only that.

Here are the cold, hard numbers:

Tuesday, Jan 9: 1708 calories, 14 glasses water, exercise
Wednesday, Jan 10: 1166 calories, 16 glasses water, exercise
Thursday, Jan 11: 1588 calories, 15 glasses water, exercise
Friday, Jan 12: 2043 calories, 14 glasses water (this was *ahem* mostly liquid calories. In case you were wondering, a chocolate martini has ~469 calories. Yikes.)
Saturday, Jan 13: 1414 calories, 11 glasses water, exercise
Sunday, Jan 14: 1553 calories, 14 glasses water
Monday, Jan 15: 1755 calories, 11 glasses water, exercise

See you next week, if not sooner!! :)
~Paige

I only wish Kristina were beside me at the Y

This new year committment to exercise is a family thing at my house. On Monday and Wednesday afternoons, our Y has a Kid's Fitness Class which my boys are taking. It is included with our membership. I am so glad to get to instill the improtance of exercise in them at a young age. My mother did the same for me and that is why it is so easy to get back into it so quickly. I love to exercise and love the endorphins it creates.

Tonight while the twins were at class and Toddler was in ChildWatch, I exercised on the Precor for 40 minutes and burned 316 calories. Yea.

I got up this morning and had time with the Lord. I am reading through the gospel of Luke. There are parts of it I have never studied.

I ate in control and did not overeat. I ate 24 points. (I am not going to WW meetings but it is how I know how to count calories and know I stay in the right range.)

I think that is all for now. Until tomorrow.
Amy

I feel like I've climbed a mountain! I feel AMAZING!!

I was able to do fifty minutes of cardio today guys! I don't think I've done that much in years. I did 25 minutes on the elliptical, and then did 25 on the treadmill. I was just going to walk for 15 minutes, but 11 minutes into it, I thought to byself, "lets see if you can run for a bit". I've never been on a treadmill before, so I was a little intimidated, but I went for it. I kicked it up a few notches and I was able to run for 14 minutes! A solid 50 minutes of cardio, and I am feeling super energized. Maybe next time, I can run for fifteen! : )

Ok...I am REALLY starting this time..

Hi everyone,
This past week has been a wash. I ate everything I could get my hands on and still half the time felt like I could eat more! I don't know what happens to me the week before my period, but I feel like a bottomless pit and half insane. Oh well, I can't cry over spilled milk. What's done is done. I am feeling like myself today, no more insanity. Thank God! I watched a couple of shows last night on the Discovery channel about people and their struggle to lose weight. One was particularly interesting because it had a girl on it that not only was shaped like me but had some of the same road blocks that I have. Her problem (and mine) was when she was good, she was perfect but if she messed up even a little, she felt such failure that she would binge. Boy do I know that cycle all to well! They set up an action plan for her that included a livable eating plan, exercise and being good to her self. That is the one I zoomed in on. Give myself a mental break. Well anyways, after watching the shows and knowing there are other people out there that have started, failed and started again as many times as me; gave me encouragement. So once again, I am starting the week with brushing off my knees. Getting refocused. I spent last night planning my day's menu and counting the calories. I'm going to get 10,000 steps in today on my pedometer and I am going to do aerobics after dinner. I will accomplish losing weight and getting healthy. I don't care how many times I have to fall and get up again. Because I know there is going to be that day when I brush off my knees and everything falls into place and clicks. Whatever road blocks (mental)I had in the past will be gone and I will be able to move forward with out constant drama. This is my hope and why I don't give up. Everyone have a great day and a successful week.
Smiles,
Kimiko

New Weight Loss Support Group at my Home!

Hello, ladies...I am starting a new weight loss support group at my home on Sunday, January 21st at 3:00. Each Sunday afternoon, we will focus on the Prism weight loss plan, but it is open to anyone in any program who needs a place to vent and share and seek encouragement. I am excited for this new phase of my journey and I can't wait to fill my home with hopeful, smart, teachable women(and men) who are ready to take control of their health and well being. Send me an email, call me or post here if you are interested or know of someone who is.

See you next Sunday!
Jules

I just can't stop working out!

And just so you know, NO, this is NOT me. : )
We had our orientation with the fitlinxx thingy at the Y, and I'm getting my fitness assesment next Tuesday. That was the soonest they could suedule me in, LOTS of new members this month. Anyhow, after our orientation last night,( which took nearly an hour), I only did twenty minutes on the elliptical, so I made it worth my while. I burned 285 calories baby! And today I did thirty minutes and burned 420 more. Since we've joined, I've already lost 6 1/2 pounds. Eating right certainly helps too! I'm telling you, this year is my year. I AM going to get down to 150 pounds.

I got some new workout duds too!

I did another 30 minutes of cardio yesterday. 20 on the elliptical, and 10 on the bike. WOW, you use a lot more calories on the elliptical. I only burned 300 total. But hey, that's better than having a bowl full of chips or a white russian! I'm actually burning calories this last week and a half. : )It feels really good too. Getting ready to go to the Y with the family within the next hour. We're getting our orientation with the fitlinx thingy. I'm looking forward to that. As you all know, I am extremely competetive. With this fitlinx, you can not only keep track of your own workouts/accomplishments, but you can compare yourself to other people on the circuit! I hope you all are doing well. Sueanne, hang in there hon! We all have our ups and downs.

WhooHoo - Coffee Date with Amy!

The Texas chapter is officially set for the Revolution! Amy and I are meeting for afternoon coffee about the time (if I'm counting time zones correctly) that your food will arrive in the Great Northwest. Rock on! :)

We'll be thinking of you!

Lost my mojo

Hello everyone,

I just can't find my inspiration to push through. YOU ladies are the very thing that makes me not give up all together. Love your posts and inspiration:) Hanging out in the plateau....heading into a slump.......

Wow, I am the downer in the group right now-yikes!
SueAnne

ARGH- has it been a few days, the minivan is busy

All our activities started back this week and I forgot how busy it is. I made it to the gym Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and done cardio for 30 minutes and Mon and Wed did the weight machines. Tonight we had a homeschool coop meeting so I am going to walk around the 'hood as soon as I can GET THESE KIDS TO BED!!

This week (Mon-THurs)I have eaten horribly. When I don't write it down, I overeat. I am committed to writing it down this week (Friday to Friday).

I have been having my quiet time each morning but it seems to be getting shorter and shorter. I am praying that GOd will get my kids to bed so I can get up earlier. I really do not want to have to get up at 6:30 since I am not and never have been a morning person. I do better at night. Maybe I will have a shorter start up time in the morning and then a longer study time at night.

You all can have to know how much this group means to me and how even when I did not want to post, I still read and was encouraged by you.

Peace, Amy

A Pleasant Surprise and a Quick Prayer Request

Tuesday morning I woke up and wandered to my closet to figure out what to wear to work. I grabbed a skirt from the back and a blouse and called it good. I bought this skirt in the same week as two others, off the internet, several years ago. One of the skirts fit perfectly and was so beautiful that I wear it pretty frequently (or at least once a month). The other two skirts were nice, but for some reason one I don't wear very often and the other was too small when I bought it and I simply didn't get around to returning it.

Monday, I grabbed the one that fit but that I don't wear very often. Or so I thought. Midmorning I found the tags still in it (on the inside - no one saw) and realized that I was in the skirt that was too small to wear when I got it.

Since I, like Kristina, have gained back some of the weight I lost (5 lbs. since September - *cringe*), this was a nice surprise. The even better part was that the skirt is extremely slimming (tan and chocolate tweed, pencil skirt).

So that's the good surprise.

My quick prayer request isn't at all an urgent (or really that important) thing but I feel like I could use all the help I can get. Over the past few months, I realized that I really need to go work for a different firm if I have any shot at staying happy being a lawyer and happy in general. Therefore, over the past few weeks I have been talking with people and sending out feelers about working elsewhere, regardless that the market is pretty tight for people who do what I do. If you happen to think of it, a quick prayer that an offer from somewhere else is in His plan for me would be much appreciated.

Just wanted to show a few pics of my babies. My 8 year old put googy eyes on her brothers forehead. That was fun!

I started back at the Y yesterday

Hi guys
Sorry I have not been in touch but things have been kind of crazy around my house. I did start back at the Y yesterday though. It felt good to finally be back on the elliptical again. I did 30 minutes. My toes fell asleep. hahaha. Anyway I also did 25 min. in the cybex. It was a good day. Today i felt kind of tired so my husband went with my two older kids. My 8 year old girl walked and ran 1 mile with her dad, they had a great time. She also did some stretches and ball exercises. I'm glad that the whole family is getting in on this. We are also juicing every day and with that are coming healthier eating habits. Talk to you all soon.

I've been tearing up the elliptical at the Y!

Yesterday when I went to the Y, I was able to do the elliptical machine for forty minutes again, and this time I even burned a few more calories than before. I knocked out a solid 550 calories. Then I did twenty minutes of weights. Let me just say, that after the last couple of days, I am sore. But it feels so goooood! AND... I am down exactly five pounds from last Wednesday. Before you get too excited though, I must confess that I had gained an entire eleven pounds over the holidays. I was depressed and eating VERY badly. I've been too ashamed to admitt my gain, but I figure that if I was open with you guys, that I'd be able to get the support that I needed.
It's so weird, one of the things that was depressing me was the fact that I was eating poorly. So what did I do? I continued to eat poorly, because it was temporarily comforting me. Only to be left feeling ashamed. It's a vicious cycle at times. Well, I'm back on track now. I'm eating right, and I'm ready to excercise my guts out! I AM going to get down to 150 pounds this year. Even if it takes a while, I AM going to do it.

New workout challenge!

I bought a new workout apparatus at Costco yesterday, a pearly blue gym ball. I have been using it today, not only to stretch and work out a bit (still learning), but to sit on while listening to my kids read or reading to them. It totally helps my spine stay in alignment. It feels great to have a "workout" plan for home. I usually see working out as a YMCA thing. Something I do away from home. Another way to transform and reinvent my life.

Upward and Onward!
Jules

The Texas Revolution: Calling All Minivans!

Okay, Amy (and anyone else who is interested but considerably farther away), the New Year's Revolution is coming up in 10 short days...would you like to get together and do something as the official Texas chapter? I'm up for about anything - lunch (your kids are welcome of course) somewhere in Collin County, meeting to work out together at the Y (my membership isn't just limited to my home facility), or perhaps a celebratory cup of coffee so we can brag on eachother and share remarks like "Wow Jules looks great - I don't know how she managed to come out so skinny after the holidays but I wish I knew her secret."

If you're interested, let me know. I'd really like to meet you since I feel like I "know" you somewhat already!

the preschool diet

Hi ladies, sorry it has been so long...I have not really been changing in the past few months, so I have nothing really interesting to say. It is nice to read all your posts and I am still over here cheering you on. Like your quiet little cheerleader...sorry I am not more vocal. Anyway, thought this was cute and worth sharing...
Keep up the work ladies!

Remember how light you were and the boundless energy you had as a 3-and
4-year-old? All your baby fat was gone, your skin was smooth and your head
was full of shiny hair and gum. The key to recapturing that ideal body
type is to
once again eat like a preschooler.

It works like this:

For breakfast, you have a small Barney-bowl full of Cheerios with 2 percent
milk, four banana slices on the side and a sippy cup of orange juice.
Using a spoon with a blue rubber handle, eat half the cereal and dribble
the rest of it down your chin and onto your shirt.
Take two big sips of juice; try to gargle with it and then laugh
convulsively, causing the juice to shoot out your nose. Mash the banana
slices into the table with your fingers.

Lunch is a Bob-The-Builder bowl of Spaghetti-Os (fortified with
calcium), eight green beans and a cup-with-lid- and-straw full of milk.
Chewing the spoon with the red rubber handle, you eat the calcium
fortified Spaghetti-Os with your hands. Wipe excess sauce from your
hands onto your pants and make bubbles in your milk. Eat two and a half
green beans and then try to force the rest
into the straw. Blow with all your might into the green-bean-stuffed straw.

Your mid-afternoon snack can be any two of the following: Goldfish
crackers, raisins, grapes (cut into eighths to avoid choking) or string
cheese. You may have one sippy cup of half apple juice, half water. Eat
crackers, raisins, grapes, or cheese by tossing handfuls of them into
the air and seeing how many you can catch with your mouth. Grind
whatever you don't catch into the carpet
with your shoe.

Dinner consists of macaroni and cheese, peas and applesauce. Refuse to
eat your macaroni and cheese with only one utensil; instead use both a
fork and a spoon. Alternate bites, first using the fork in your right
hand and then using the spoon in your left. Eat the applesauce only with
the fork, dripping most of it through the fork prongs and onto your lap.
Insert peas into nose.

The key to the Preschooler Diet is not what you eat but, rather, that
most of the food on your plate ends up on the floor instead of in your
stomach. But as with any diet, food is only part of the answer; you also
have to exercise.

Like a preschooler.

This includes riding your trike in the driveway, jumping on the couch,
pretending everything is a sword, spinning until you fall down and crying.

Of course, first consult your physician to ensure that the Preschooler
Diet is appropriate for you. If it's not, you might have to consider the
even more radical and rapid weight-loss regimen of the Toddler Diet.

I got my new duds!!

My Cafe' Press order came in yesterday. I am wearing the size Medium workout set and the XL junior size t-shirt. So much fun! I feel so sporty and connected to my girls! Love you guys, Love this group!

Jules

Three point six

Down!! Woot woot!

This has been a tough week, and I'm so proud of myself for not losing control, even when I heard hard things or got upset etc. That's huge for me.

Les Journal:

Tuesday, 1/2: 1598 calories, 14 glasses water, exercise
Wednesday, 1/3: 1594 calories, 14 glasses, exercise
Thursday, 1/4: 1559 calories, 16 glasses, exercise
Friday, 1/5: 1519 calories, 11 glasses
Saturday, 1/6: 1287 calories, 8 glasses
Sunday, 1/7: 1443 calories, 8 glasses
Monday, 1/8: 1269 calories, 14 glasses, exercise.

I'm a little slow getting back on the exercise wagon, but I'm working on it!

Dodging the danish for breakfast

I can't say the same about yesterday, but my honey and I DID celebrate our 13th wedding anniversary yesterday... even though it is today. My mom came and sat with the boys, and brought a flat of Costco danishes with her. We went on a lunch and movie date, and we both ate like pigs. But today is a new day. And I worked off some of my bad choices from yesterday, on the elliptical machine today. I pushed myself for a solid 10 minutes longer than I've ever done. I lasted for 40 minutes this morning you guys, and I burned a whole 540 calories. It felt AWESOME!
I'm telling you, this year is my year. I'm going to get down to my goal, and I'm gonna look fabulous. Right now I may look the same as when we had our Fall Frolic, but I tell you what, come the Spring Hurrah, I'm gonna be turning some heads. : )


I went back to the Y tonight with my hubby! I did 25 more minutes on the elliptical. I burned a total of 866 calories on that macchine alone today...Plus I did some weight training, not sure on the calories burned there. But I did consume only 1600 calories today, and I had 16 glasses of water.

I am journaling again...

Hey ladies, its been awhile since I posted, not sure why I am choosing now, a busy Monday morning, to do so, but got to write when the Spirit inspires me, I guess....

I have started journaling again (for those of you still waiting, the journals are still not in). Here are my stats for the last little while:

12-28 Water:13!, Calories 1600, Workout: 45 min. Elliptical

12-29 Water:11, Calories: 1460

12-30 Water:8, Calories: 1500

12-31 Water:4, Calories: 2100 boo

1-1 Water:7, Calories 1300

1-2 Water: 8, Calories 1700 Now addicted to sugar again...Has to STOP!

1-3 Water 10, Calories 1450 Workout: 45 min. Elliptical 405 calories burned! Sugar withdrawal headache....

1-4 Water: 8, Calories 1550, Workout: 33 min. Elliptical 311 calories burned. No sugar today. Grumpy mom. (Scale says I gained 3 lbs in one week??? What the heck????) VERY grumpy mom.

1-5 Water:9, Calories 1639, Did Housework ALL day, took down Christmas

1-6 Water: 9, Calories 1450

1-7 Water:6, Calories 1511, Weight back down by 1.4 lbs. Feeling better. Still 1.6 lbs. higher than right after Christmas....

Today is a new day, ladies...I am shooting for a workout session and a great day homeschooling my kids. How bout you?

Jules

Report from the Minivan

I appreciate you all reading my ramblings. These posts help keep me accountable to someone about what I am doing daily.
1. I woke up just in time to get everyone ready for church today. SS was great and worship was even better. The first Sunday of the month is communion which is just so special to be reminded of Christ's love, there is no Children's church so I spend a good deal of the time whispering, SHHHHHH.
2. I ate in control and in moderation but I did eat some cookies. I didn't overeat on them though and it is "that time of the month" and I just wanted some sweets.
3. I drank 9 glasses of water. YEA
4. I took the boys for a hike through the park today I think it is about 1.5 miles. Yesterday I went to the Y and rode the elliptical for 20 minutes, did the leg machines, and walked 12 minutes.

Until tomorrow.
Amy

Ups and Downs

Down: I only exercised three days this week, not the four I hoped for.

Up: I did not eat the Moose Munch. This is huge for me.

Down: Horrible news about my Grandma, who I'm very close to. Horrible as in brain-tumor-no-more-than-six-months news. I'm devastated.

Up: I stayed on the Exchange. Every day. Even with pizza.

Down: Went over my calories almost every day.

Up: But not by more than 50 calories, and I'm not sure why, and can't sweat it right now.

I'm following the Villiage People and have joined the YMCA!

Our family joined last night, finally. Hallelujah. I had a good work out last night with my guy, and I'm looking forward to another one today. I'm so excited to finally have membership, and not have to go on a guest pass. The weight that I gained over the holidays is coming off baby, O-F-F!!!
Seeing you regularly Jules has really challenged me, you are just so dang skinny now! No more white russians for this chick... my reslove is back.

I just wanted to celebrate a loss of 1/2 inch on each of my thighs. Not sure what to attribue this to, but its happy regardless!

I'm going to the barn today to ride. I took a week off.

From the Minivan

I began this morning with a bed full of boys who had snuck down to our room and into the bed after Honey left for work. I really like to be the first up but not today. I did read my devotional today but did not get my bible reading done.

I ate in moderation and did not eat when I was not hungry.

I drank 9 glasses of water!!! Yea.

I worked out at the gym. Elliptical for 20 minutes and weight circuit for 40 minutes. The fitness guru set me up with a plan on the machines.

No gym tomorrow because there is no childcare but Saturday, I'll be there.

Great Day

I have had a great day... I ate good, drank my water and WORKED OUT!! I also weighed at the gym and am happy to report that since my last tickler change I have only gained 1.6 lbs. This is very exciting to me as it has been since late November since I have really tried hard to stay on track. This makes me all the more motivated to getting this weight off and keeping it off. I have had visuals of me in cute outfits....I am going to lose 15 #s by March 1st.

Jules could you please update my tickler?

Tracy

Check it out - what does 200 calories look like?

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-does-200-calories-look-like.htm


When you consider that an entire plate of broccoli contains the same number of calories as a small spoonful of peanut butter, you might think twice the next time you decide what to eat.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the average adult needs to consume about 2000 - 2500 calories to maintain their weight. In other words, you have a fixed amount of calories to "spend" each day; based on the following pictures, which would you eat?

The details of our New Year's Revolution event

We are meeting at 11:30 a.m. on January the 20th at the Northgate Mall Red Robin. I think it is safe to say that this will probably be where we will always meet, as it is a pretty good central location. Anyhow, it will be a time of food,(healthy naturally), fellowship, and fun. And of course a bit of shopping. For those of us that have stayed the same, or perhaps gained a few pounds, we could never have enough accessories... right? I hope most of you can make it, we've really had a wonderful time in the prior two events.

You can do it!

That is what I keep telling my self. "Kimiko, you can do this! You have accomplished every other goal you have set out to do in your life, this shouldn't be any different." Yes, the goal of getting healthy shouldn't be any different from any other goal in my life but it is. I have never fallen down and gotten back up so many times! I was so encouraged by Elicia's comments on the New Years Revolution post. I wasn't going to attend the event because I put back on 8 of the 30 pounds I lost in 06. I was also feeling a bit sorry for myself because I didn't reach my goal of getting out of the 200's before the end of the year. I need you ladies something bad! I really don't want to fail. Failure to me would be to quit and go back to my old habits. I stumbled at the end of the year but I am not ready to concede this battle as of yet. I am journaling again, drinking at least 120 ounces of water a day, and I am doing my aerobics tape in the morning. I know if I just keep putting one foot in front of the other I will eventually make my destination. It's just taking so dang long! My goal this year is to lose 50 pounds by 11/1. That is only 5 pounds a month. I think I could do that. I really need to do this. My husband and I want to start trying to conceive by November. I am a bit empty. Please give me a hand, a prayer, a encouraging word until I can stand firm on my own. Thank you ladies. I wouldn't have lost the first 30 (22) pounds without you.
Smiles,
Kimiko

Two and a half weeks until the New Years Revolution event!

Okay girls, we have just seventeen more days until we all get together again to celebrate. I know that most of us have gained some over the holidays, but I believe it's all of the more reason for us to get together. We need to encourage one another. So if you've already made up your mind that you don't want to go, let me see if I can persuade you to change it! It's a new year, it's a new day. Let's get healthy together!

First night at the Y

I went to the Y last night. I don't have my orientation until tomorrow night so all I did was walk on the treadmill and attempt to do the elliptical. I walked for 30 minutes. Then saw my old SS teachers and talked to them for a few minutes. I watched the other people on the ellipticals and figured out how it works. I put my water in the special slot. Plugged in my headphones so I could hear the TV, started the program and lasted all of 3 minutes, 180 seconds, 5/100ths of an hour. Today I go for 5 minutes!!

*Setting and Succeeding with Goals*

I know it sounds basic and silly, but there really are ways of setting goals for yourself set you up for success. Think of it like a recipe or a template for success. If you set goals in this way, you are more likely to accomplish them than not.

Read on and see if it makes sense to you...



1. Get a clear vision of your goal. Don't just say, "I want to lose some weight." but allow yourself a moment to imagine what you'd do then that you aren't doing now…Imagine what types of clothes you might wear with confidence…

What would I look like if I had the 'perfect' me?

2. Get real. How much of this ideal is do-able? Sure, I'd like to say I snowboard black diamond runs, but the truth is, I'm not fit enough to do it and probably never will be. If I give myself a goal that is out of hand, I'll have to have an out of hand way of tackling it. Am I really willing to dedicate that kind of time?

What does this ideal look like once I add a dash of reality?

3. Get started. Thinking about this stuff won't get it done. If you are trying to lose weight, get your meal plan together and shop. Then eat the food. If you are needing to pass a certification, then start studying, find a study group, get going!

4. Re-work your goal. You'll find stumbling blocks or things that work better than others. Sometimes your desires change. Check in with yourself periodically to make sure the goal is really a manifestation of what you thought you wanted.

5. Keep going. Studies show it can take as little as two weeks to get something engrained as a habit. You are literally RE-WIRING YOUR BRAIN as MIT studies show. http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/1999/habit-0922.html

6. Reward yourself. Your brain will more easily be re-wired with the help of some lovely reward hormones (see above study).

So ladies, get them goals in mind. Not because its the new year...cuz I think resolutions are made to fail, but because it is a good thing to do - and a goal is like faith - "The substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen".

Elicia

It's My Blake's Birthday today! I love him so!

Today is my honey's birthday. I have some more photos of our morning at my other blog. Happy day to you, love.

8.6

Pounds gained, that is.

I went totally off track. It was mostly planned, but doesn't change what it is. I gained almost nine pounds.

I'm trying not to dwell on that. Instead, I'm focusing on a new day. A new week, month, day, and even year.

I'm back to journaling again as well. I'll be posting updates here, lucky you guys!!!

I've missed you.

Between the Years - A Devotion for New Year's Day

Our Lord and our God. We joy in Thee.

Without Thy Help we could not face unafraid the year before us.

I stand between the years.

The Light of My Presence is flung across the year to come -

the radiance of the Sun of Righteousness.

Backward, over the past year, is My Shadow thrown,

hiding trouble and sorry and disappointment.

Dwell not on the past - only on the present.

Only use the past as the trees use My Sunlight to absorb it,

to make from it in after days the warming fire-rays.

So store only the blessings from Me, the Light of the World.

Encourage yourselves by the thought of these.

Bury every fear of the future,

of poverty for those dear to you, of suffering, of loss.

Bury all thought of unkindness and bitterness,

all your dislikes, your resentments, your sense of failure,

your disappointment in others and in yourselves,

your gloom, your despondency, and let us leave them all,

buried, and go forward to a new and risen life.

Remember that you must not see as the world sees.

I hold the year in My Hands - in trust for you.

But I shall guide you one day at a time.
Leave the rest with Me.

You must not anticipate the gift by fears or thoughts of the days ahead.
And for each day I shall supply the wisdom and the strength.

I am the light of the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12 (from God Calling)

Happy New Year

Here is what I did this morning. We got a family membership at the Y. They have a Childwatch program which my kids can go to each afternoon while Mom exercises. Honey is going to work out too. This is the year!!

Our Christmas cracker crowns

Here I am with my honey on Christmas eve, sporting our fancy crowns. I don't have ANY pictures of me from last Christmas. The couple that were taken, I deleted because I felt so huge and unattractive. I have the imfamous photo of me and my mom on Thanksgiving, but I've already posted that one several times. Anyhow, I'm feeling pretty again, and not depressed now that my horomones are leveling out. Ain't it grand to be a woman? Actually, I'd rather be a woman over a man any day. Happy New Year!! Thanks for the encouragment ladies... and Elicia, I did appreciate the phone call. : )

Happy New Year

I have had a CRAZY Christmas with non stop company for the past three weeks. I love the company, but hate all the goodies that come with it. I have NOT been faithful over this Christmas. I had a food detox in my house on Saturday. I needed any and all bad foods out of my house. I am starting over again with a fresh start. Jules just showed a cute pic of her and her hubby and I too would love a moment like that with my husband.
I did get myself into some Christmas photos and HATED looking at them, but it has me all the more motivated to have them as my BEFORE pics. Next Christmas I will be in alot more photos and be proud to be in them.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Tracy

Check out my Man picking ME up!!!

I am officially within LESS than a lb. Of my hubby's weight. We essentially weigh the same! This has never been true for me. When he met me, I weighed about 179, and he was about 150. When we married, I weighed about 187. He weighed 150. When I had my first child, he gained with me and was in the upper 160's, but I have never weighed less or near his weight. I am now at 162.2 and he is officially at 161.8!!! Ha! Here he is lifting me up and for the first time (not that it has EVER happened before) I didn't feel self conscience or fat or like I was going to hurt him or embarrass myself. Yippee for the spice of life and the fun of a slimmer body with my honey to appreciate ALL that that means!

Happy New Year, My Sweet Friends!

PS I had two drinks tonight and two chocolates and a few more snacks than anyone needs...Tomorrow is not only a new day, but a whole new year. Upward and onward!

Jules

I've been struggling with depression, and eating too much... help!

It's kind of ironic, that after I hit my eighty pound mark a couple of weeks ago, I've really had a battle with depression. And as a result, I've been eating too much, and having more to drink than usual, and because of it, I've gained some weight back. So today I'm taking Jules advice, and I'm starting to journal again, as much as I DON'T want to. I know that I need to. I've worked too hard to get the weight off. This is where I'm at. This was a difficult post for me to do... as you can imagine.

A little Comic Break brought to you by the WordMaster

What Children Learn Quickly

No matter how hard you try, you can't baptize cats.
When your Mom is mad at your Dad, don't let her brush your hair.
If your sister hits you, don't hit her back. They always catch the second person.
Never ask a 3-year old to hold a tomato.
You can't trust dogs to watch your food.
Don't sneeze when someone is cutting your hair.
Puppies still have bad breath even after eating a tic-tac.
Never hold a dust buster and a cat at the same time.
School lunches stick to the wall.
You can't hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk.
Don't wear polka-dot underwear under white shorts.



What Adults Eventually Learn

Raising teenagers is like trying to nail Jell-O to a tree.
There's always a lot to be thankful for if you take time to look for it. For example, I am sitting here thinking how nice it is that wrinkles don't hurt.
Reason to smile: Every seven minutes of every day, someone in an aerobics class pulls a hamstring.
The best way to keep kids at home is to make the home a pleasant atmosphere...and let the air out of their tires.
Families are like fudge...mostly sweet with a few nuts.
Middle age is when you choose cereal for the fiber, not the toy.
The more you complain, the longer God lets you live.
If you can remain calm, you don't have all the facts.
Eat a live toad first thing in the morning, and nothing worse can happen to you the rest of the day.
You know you're getting old when you stoop to tie your shoes and wonder what else you can do while you're down there.


Politically Correct Ways To Say Someone is Stupid

A few clowns short of a circus.
A few fries short of a happy meal.
A few beers short of a six pack.
A few peas short of a casserole.
The wheel's spinning, but the hamster's dead.
One fruit loop shy of a full bowl.
One taco short of a combination plate.
A few feathers short of a whole duck.
All foam, no beer.
The cheese slid off his cracker.
Body by Fisher, brains by Mattel.
Has an IQ of 2, but it takes 3 to grunt.
Warning: Objects in mirror are dumber than they appear.
Couldn't pour water out of a boot with instructions on the heel.
He fell out of the stupid tree and hit every branch on the way down.
An intellect rivaled only by garden tools.
As smart as bait.
Doesn't have all his dogs on one leash.
Elevator doesn't go all the way to the top floor.
Forgot to pay his brain bill.
Her sewing machine's out of thread.
His antenna doesn't pick up all the channels.
His belt doesn't go through all the loops.
Proof that evolution CAN go in reverse.
Receiver is off the hook.
Several nuts short of a full pouch.
Skylight leaks a little.
Saliency's kinked.
Too much yardage between the goal posts.
Not the sharpest knife in the drawer.
Got into the gene pool while the lifeguard wasn't watching.
A room temperature IQ.
Got a full 6-pack, but lacks the plastic thingy to hold them together.

Even More Politically Correct Ways To Say Someone is Stupid

A gross ignoramus -- 144 times worse than an ordinary ignoramus.
A photographic memory, but the lens cover is glued on.
A prime candidate for natural DE-selection.
One celled organisms out score him in IQ tests.
Donated his body to scientists - before he was done using it.
During evolution his ancestors were in the control group.
Fell out of the family tree.
Gates are down, the lights are flashing, but the train isn't coming.
Has two brains; one is lost and the other is out looking for it.
He's so dense, light bends around him.
If brains were taxed, he'd get a rebate.
If he were any more stupid, he'd have to be watered twice a week.
If you give him a penny for his thoughts, you get change back.
If you stand close enough to him, you can hear the ocean.
It's hard to believe that he beat 100,000 other sperm.
Some drink from the fountain of knowledge, but he just gargled.

Report from the Minivan

To start, thank you for the support and encouragement. It is so nice to know I can turn to you all to share what is going on with me.

1. I started the day reading my Bible and praying.
2. I then fell flat on my face in the fridge and snacked and ate like there were not going to be any more meals, EVER. Ok maybe not that bad but I made the mistake of purchasing a food that I KNEW I could not leave alone "for the kids" and then ate more of it than they did. Why do I lie to myself this way. I have got to figure out a way to make veggies "warm and comforting" for winter consumption.
3. I DRANK 9 glasses of water today. I bought a 24 oz bottle with a squirt top and kept it filled all day. If a sippy cup works for my toddler, why not for me!!
4. Last night I walked to the grocery store but today it was pouring rain all day ( my small taste of what you Northwesterners go through) so from SueAnne and someone else who I can't remember right now, I walked the stairs. I made it 6 times with 16 stairs.

Jules, could you post a link to that journal you found? Can you buy it at any Hallmark?

Until tomorrow. Skinny thoughts.
Amy

Hello Everyone

Well, what a crazy Christmas it has been for me. My husband and 6 year old both have Broncitis. They have been sick since the Tuesday before Christmas. I spent all day Christmas Eve in the ER. They are kind of feeling better now, Thank God. The only thing worse than one sick man is two sick men.HAHA! Anyway, I got a power juicer from Santa. It is awesome. I'm sure all the fresh juice around here has helped them with getting better. It will definitly help me with my weight loss. Hope you all had a wonderfully blessed Christmas and have a great New Year. HAPPY LOOSING TO US ALL:-)

The minivan is finally back to normal...

or as normal as it usually is with three active little boys.

All the relatives have gone home, the desserts (two half pies) have been dumped in the trash and a supply of veggies has been added to the fridge. I got up on time this morning and am not staying up too late.

My family, who I love dearly has one fatal flaw, we are night owls. We stay up too late when we are all together and talk and laugh and totally enjoy each other's company. I could stay up all night talking with my sister as she is my "bestest" girlfriend. But I am glad she is not here all the time or I would never get any sleep because she stays up to talk and the kids get up early running at full speed so I am caught in the middle. I love it but am glad it only lasts for a few days.

I did manage to not totally overeat during the few days. I did have my quiet times with the Lord though not as long as usual. I am glad to get back to our routine.

One thing I realized today, I am starting this year 20 pounds less than I started last year. It is not where I wanted to be but it sure is better than being 20 pound heavier. This year, my goal is 2 pounds per week and stick to the plan.

I also have a new idea for the new year. Our grocery store is only a mile walk from my house, half there and half home. I am thinking we are going to be walking to get the groceries this year. It would make me buy less as I can only carry so much home and we could get some exercise on the way. We did it tonight and it only took an hour to get there, buy the groceries and get home.

There is also a haircut store, bank, Blockbusters,dollar store, Starbucks, postoffice, and Walgreens. Walking is definitely going to be in our future.

On my way...

I am just 9 days away from my one year weight loss anniversary. I am so amazed at what this year held for me! This blog, by far, has been one of the most amazing fruits of the year, not to mention losing 5 dress sizes (18/20 to 8/10). I wonder where I will end up for the year? I am wiggling my way to the 150's, but I don't know if I can make it there in 9 days....I would love to try.
I bought this new fitness journal at the Hallmark store (have ordered more if any of you are interested). It has helped to jumpstart me again. I didn't eat a chocolate today because I knew I would have to write it down and I didn't want to do that. I have been away from daily journaling for some time now.
Anyways, thank you all for your love and support. As for me cheerleading you, it has been my joy and privledge. I hope we have more join us in the new year and I hope we can come up with fresh ways to motivate us all! Happy New Year, everyone! See you at the New Years Revolution....See you here on the blog.

Love, Jules

Some Reverse Psychology

Shhhhh.....don't anyone post....it will break the silence of denial!

Shhhh...don't admit you've fallen....it may show your weakness!

Shhhh...don't grab that glass of water......

OMGOODNESS!

1. Started the day with the Lord as I prayed that Toddler would sleep in the middle of the night. He is sick and did not sleep well, and neither did I.
2. I ate good for breakfast and lunch but dinner... I am tired and have a cold.
3. I did get 6 glasses of water.
4. No exercise.

What a terrible day. It is amazing how the day can fall apart so quickly when you have been up with a sick child. Tomorrow is a new day with a new start.

Until tomorrow.
Amy

Jingle Jiggle Update

Ok Ladies, we're rounding the final few days of our Jingle Jiggle Challenge. I believe I will keep up this habit as I am confident I can keep swinging 1/2 hour of strength training on abs and legs every night (before bed its a great way to wind down).

How have you done on your Jiggle Challenges?

Should we invent a NEW ONE? The New Year Water Guzzling Contest? (Oh yeah, Kris'll win) - How about the New Year Inch Pinch? (Kris again....)

Whaddaya think?

Friday Night in the Minivan

1. I started my day with reading my Bible and prayer. Listened to some Christmas music while getting breakfast. The kids were up early so I did not get as long a time as I would like.
2. Today was my liquid day so I ate only one meal and had juice, soup and milk the others.
3. I drank 6 glasses of water. I am going to try some of the ideas from last night. I bought some True Lime packets and some Kroger brand pour ins and am going to try that tomorrow.
4. No exercise today.

The first of my Christmas guests arrived today. My dad is here. My brother comes tomorrow and my sister on Sunday.

Hope you are all getting your Christmas plan underway.
Amy

Other Sources of Water for Us Guzzlers...

Beyond the tap: Other sources of water

Although it's a great idea to keep water within reach at all times, you don't need to rely only on what you drink to satisfy your fluid needs. What you eat also provides a significant portion of your fluid needs. On average, food provides about 20 percent of total water intake, while the remaining 80 percent comes from water and beverages of all kinds.

For example, many fruits and vegetables — such as watermelon and cucumbers — are nearly 100 percent water by weight. Beverages such as milk and juice are also comprised mostly of water. Even beer, wine and caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea or soda can contribute, but these should not be a major portion of your daily total fluid intake. Water is one of your best bets because it's calorie-free, inexpensive and readily available.

http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/NU/00283.html

Only 29 more days until the New Year's Revolution event!

Okay ladies, shall we set some goals for this upcoming event? And shall we make plans as to where to meet again? My vote is at Northgate Red Robin again. Where we can meet, eat, and shop, shop, shop! What say you?

I finally figured out how to post a pic of me

This a picture of me 20 pounds smaller than I am now. This was taken one year ago October 4th on my 8 year wedding anniversary. 4 months later I found out that I was pregnant with my third child. Jacob was born 10-6-06.

Minivan Report

1. Today I started my day with listening to a teaching on Philipians while I cleaned the house to get ready for company. I have it saved on my iPod and can listen where I left off. I listened to Christmas music and worship music today.
2. I ate in moderation and control today. I did not overeat nor did I eat when I was not hungry.
3. I drank 6 glasses today. Any suggestions for getting the stuff down?
4. I did not get to exercise today as we had company all day.

Thank you all for the encouragements and prayers. I value it!!!
Until tomorrow,
Amy

Christmas Greetings from "The Chin!"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLozEolWQdY

Hey there Julie!

I saw that you have your starting BMI on your weight ruler. Could you put mine up for me? It is 42.9. I would like to keep track of that also. My end is the same as yours. Thanks

Thanks for the support gals!

I had an ok day today. I woke this morning to a sick husband which followed my son yesterday. My kids never really get sick. I think the last time was 2 years ago. Anyway because of taking care of everyone else I seemed to do good on my eating habits. I ended my day at 1165 calories. And I drank 8 glasses of water. I can't believe that I stayed full most of all. I think that because I stayed busy on other people rather than myself, I didn't have a hard time focusing.

Hee Hee Kris - I elfed YOU this year!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?userid=a44f3e5577ffd571164e74dG06122112

Minivan Report

1. I started my day reading God's word and in prayer. I spent time with my dad and my brother who are here for Christmas today.
2. I ate in moderation and did not eat when I was not hungry until after dinner when the guys (Yes, I live in a frat house with my Honey, three sons, my dad and my brother) asked for some cookies. I made the dough and made a batch of cookies and then ate some of the dough. I caught myself but not until I had already eaten about 3 cookies worth. ARGH.
3. I drank 7 (YEA) glasses of Water today. TOmorrow I am aiming for 8.
4. I walked for 30 minutes today as we walked the mall.

Tonight the minivan got a new XM radio along with a years service from Brother. It is an early Christmas present as he had to install it in the van. I love commercial free radio!!

Until tomorrow.
Amy

Kimberly, I'm sending you a cyber high five!

I see that you've already lost some weight girl, I saw your ticker. GOOD JOB! You just started a few days ago. Keep it up, we're right here with you! ~Kristina~

Minivan Report

1. I have read my Bible study lesson today, prayed, started my day with prayer and study and fellowshipped with some other Christian mom's today while our kids played.
2. I ate in control and in moderation. I did not eat when I was not hungry nor did I overeat.
3. I drank 6 glasses...seem to be stuck on this one but also had 2 decaf drinks
4. I walked for 30 minutes.

Today the desire to overeat did not rear its ugly head. I know that it is only God's doing as I went with some friends to McD to let our kids play as the weather was yucky, and my uncle sent this to our house and all I ate was the pear.
The biggest temptation in there is going to work with Honey tomorrow.

A Goofy Confession

Ladies, this little story is so embarrasing that I would not share this with ANYONE else in the world (so of course I'll just post it here on the Internet instead), but the only thing holding my pants up today is a paperclip and a prayer.

Here's what happened:

I haven't made it to the cleaners this week so this morning I put on a pair of suit pants that I was wearing pretty regularly last May. I haven't lost THAT much since then so I figured it wouldn't be a big deal. Oh boy was I wrong. Having your pants ride around your hips is one thing; accidentally stepping on your hem and flashing your panties to a (thankfully) empty parking garage while your still-buttoned and still-zipped pants are around your knees is quite another.

The only thing in my purse I could use to hold my clothes onto my body was one of those black clamp paperclips which is now hidden under the bottom of my sweater and being used to drop 3-4 inches from the waist of these pants.

It's great that we're losing weight and that we're moving to smaller sizes but geez-Louise, ladies, this is getting embarrassing!

(Full Disclosure: I am now down 4.5 pounds from the Upper Plateau, and the panties were purple.)

New headshot...sorry, need to post to get URL for Blogger

By the way. I am avoiding trying the new blogger. I don't have a google account. Does anyone have an opinion on starting the new blogger??? I don't like change much.

Jules

Hitting the 80 pound mark!!!

Here I am sporting my infamous 22 wides! I could actually fit myself into one of the pant legs... I am amazed. After just over eleven months on this weight loss journey, I have finally hit the eighty pound mark. This is a significant number for me. Just wait until I hit the 100 pound mark... I'll be one sizzlin' mama. I already feel sizzlin' here in my new jeans that I got just yesterday. I look at these photos, and it's still sort of hard to believe that it really is me. Not my sister, not a stranger, but ME.

More from the Minivan

1. I woke up just early enough to get my devotional read before I needed to wake everyone else up to head to church. My days are definitely not as good when I do not get to spend as much time with the Lord. I did attend worship today and heard a great sermon. Tonight I went to church where I sang in our choir concert. Had a moment during one song where it talked about the light breaking through the shadows. I love that vision of Christ breaking through the shadow of my overeating.
2. I did not overeat today. I did not eat when I was not hungry. I ate moderately and in control.
3. I only got 6 glasses again today. Goal tomorrow 7 glasses of water
4. Last night I got out the Dance Revolution and played for 30 minutes. Tonight I am headed to bed as I rest on Sundays.

Thank you my friends. Until tomorrow.
Amy

Back to the truth-telling ticker

I'm back down to what my ticker says...176 even. I had gained a few pounds since Thanksgiving. Now if I can just keep that scale going in the right direction. I kind of sabbotage myself sometimes, by telling myself that I look great, and that I'm entitled to eat whatever I want for the day. But that's when the weight starts to creep back on. I don't want to stay where I'm at. I have a goal, and it is 26 pounds away. Sometimes the perseverance waivers... and I'm also seeing that I still use food as a comfort mechanism, when I'm stressed out. Not always, but probably half of the time. And I don't want to be that woman. I can't afford to be that woman.

Tonight in the Minivan

1. I woke up early this morning before the children and did my Bible Study and prayed.
2. I really just want to lie about this but honesty is the best policy, right. I did not overeat today but I did eat when I was not hungry. I ate some cake at a birthday party this morning, but then I did split a burger (with no cheese) with my dad at lunch. I did not overeat at dinner.
3. I was able to get to 6 glasses of water today, my goal tomorrow...7
4. I have not yet exercised today and it is 11pm so it is looking slim but I will post later if I actually get it in today. Tommorow for sure.

That's all for today. Until tomorrow...
Amy

My first size 8 skirt ya'll, and new tights and shoes to boot!

Never in my entire adult life, have I ever worn a size 8 anything! But today my friends, I have made history, history I tell you.
I was inspired to find some new shoes and tights after checking out my girlfriends attire yesterday, (Celestine). I figured while I was at Target, to check out their skirt selection as well. I automatically snagged a size 10, and to my pleasure, it was too large. This size 8 that I am currently wearing, fits me perfectly. And I mean perfectly. My weight has not changed, but apparently my skirt size has. And this night, that is enough... more than enough.

OD'd

Hey everybody. So I'm still alive here in NYC, I know haven't really been on here much lately. So kids in the Bronx have a lot of slang that isn't used as much in Washington. One of these is OD. I think it's safe to say you all probably know that to OD is to "over dose". Well, these kids use the terms all the time if they think someone is making too big a deal of something or "over does" something. So I'm constantly hearing, "Ms., thats OD!!" when I tell them to stop doing something or when I give them a lot of work. My point in telling you all this is that last night I "OD'd" on sugar free candy and icecream. Let me tell you ladies, only eat this stuff in moderation, because you don't want to endure what I went through in the middle of the night last night. yuck. It was horrible!! So no more feeding my food addiction with sugar free crap, it's horrible for my digestive system.
I slept for 13 hours last night, got up and went running at the YMCA and weighed myself. I thought, "okay Mandi, you have been eating junk lately and your bloated, be prepared to have gained at least five pounds." well, i stepped on, andI thought i was doing it wrong because I had to move the marker to 100 instead of 150 to find a balance on the scale! I have actually lost two pounds and am at 148.5, the lowest I've EVER been. So, I'm really pumped to get back on the wagon and finish what I started ten months ago. I have 13.5 pounds to go!
I hope you are all having a fantastic holiday season!
l

Humility

You know, this morning I realized I have stayed away from here because of my own pride and stubborness. It is great to report to you all when I am succeeding and losing weight and get virtual pats on the back but when I am failing and overeating it is just easier to stay away and then I don't have to be confronted with my failure.

This morning, God has spoken to me about this and reminded me that I need to humble myself before Him daily and seek His will over my life. It is not about the weight loss but about learning to turn to Him instead of food when I am feeling tired, stressed, anxious, happy, and any other emotion that creeps into my day. His desire for me is more than weight loss. He wants all of me and He has to peel away the pride and embarassment that keep me from succeeding.

Today, I have prayed and asked God to be in control and to get me out of the way. I am going to report in failure or success. I need to be held accountable for my actions and what a great place to report. You all have been there in success and failure.

I am committed to :
1. Getting up early to spend time with the Lord before the children get up. I am not a morning person but I have to do it in the morning so that I will turn my entire day over to the Lord and his will. In order to do this, I have to set the alarm.

2. Eating only when I am hungry. Eating in moderation. Not eating when I am not hungry, not overeating and not eating white flour, high sugars, and caffeine.

3. Drinking 8-10 glasses of water per day.

4. Exercise daily for 30 minutes.

I am going to report in each day with you all; success of failure. Hold me accountable and pray for me as this is a lifelong stronghold that God is working on and the enemy is strong but God is stronger!! He alone can bring victory!

Hi there I'm new

Hi there. My name is Kimberly and I am new at this blogging thing. I am trying to loose weight and I am currently 251 pounds. My goal weight is 150. Thanks for telling me about this web page Julie. I hope that I will have great success like you and Kristina. Thanks for the invite.
Kim

To the Washingtonians

The news is pretty much making the storm you guys are caught in seem like the apocalypse. I just want to make sure that you guys are staying dry and warm. Be careful!

Big love from Elicia and family!

M.I.A.

Hello Ladies,
I apologize for missing in action over the last couple of months. From October to the 2nd week of the new year I am always very busy. As a result, I haven't really been working out at all. I can definitely see the difference in body shape even though I have only gained 3 pounds. I have to say however, that I am glad that I am maintaining my weight for the most part; even in the midst of abundance of holiday foods. I will be back on it hard after the first of the year. I am determined to make my "obedience goal" of 180 pounds this year. I have had an opportunity to read some of your past posts, and I am really encouraged by you all and your success. I am even encouraged by those who have felt they are standing still in their progress, because they haven't given up. Ladies, thank you for being such a lights in this sometimes dreary world. Congratulations Tracy on your baptism. May our God bless you in your walk with him with rich passion for him, his word and his kingdom. Merry Christmas ladies and have a happy new year!
Smiles,
Kimiko

I did my stairs

Hello everyone,

In response to Lisa's Jingle jiggle challenge, I decided to try to do my stairs every day as I know we will not frequent the Y much this month. So the first time I did it, I could do it a wopping 11 times! Ya that's it! (Just don't look to see how many Kristina can do!) I shouldn't even post that, but I have to. So my goal is to go at least one more time each day. Granted, I am not even supposed to have resumed aerobic activity yet (technically supposed to wait a full six weeks following surgery). And the surgery itself, has knocked out my cardiovascular endurance.
ANYWAY- I did 13 (consecutive) today and will do 14 tomarrow, plus I know I do at least that many in the normal course of a day anyway.

I am determined not to gain weight this holiday season, even if I just camp out here on my plateau and don't actually lose any:)
SueAnne

Report from the Plateau

Okay ladies, as I mentioned in the comments to SueAnne's post, I have been a member of the Plateau Club for a couple of months now. I got a little apathetic; I got a little indulgent; and then I got a little sick so all I ate for a couple weeks was ice cream. Result? I got a couple of pounds back. Slowly, but they came back and camped out, right on my thighs.

Since Thanksgiving, however, I have come at myself with renewed enthusiasm and I've taken back off 3.5 pounds in the last two weeks. I'm still not where I was when I was in Guatemala but I'm closer, and it's fairly easy to take it off since I remind myself that I've done it before - that weight does not belong on me, it's just visiting but I need to make it go away before it decides to take up permanent residence.

Apparently I'm on the right path. My goal is to lose the 5-8 pounds that the typical American gains over the holidays. So far so good.

Still here

I am still here. I have been very busy this last week and have not even got on the computer. I lost my modem for a while too. We are fininshing our basement and this past week I have been painting and cleaning. My basement is just over 1600 sq ft and only about 500 hundred of it hasn't recieved fresh paint in the last week. A friend came over last night to help me do some painting for about an hour and she said she was sweating more last night then when she plays racqet ball. She is my new workout partner. Last week I was suppose to be devoted to her with working out, but Daryn and I had ALOT of work to do last week. I asked her after last night if I was excused as every night was at least 2 - 3 hours.
She is going to help me hold myself accountable with next weeks work outs.
I have not weighed myself in a long time as with the remodel the scale got hid. I am SCARED to get on.
I was also baptised last week. When I was a baby I was baptised but never by submertion. I have been wanting to do this for about a year but wasn't sure that I was ready for that next step. I was nervous that I was going to be expected to be the perfect Christian if I went ahead. I know that we always are learning about the Lord and he will guide us and teach us what we need to know. I am studing the Bible and know that this will help me along with my new life style.
WOW I guess I shouldn't wait so long to post.....

Hmmm...I can see why you'd need some strength...

Ok Ladies and Gents, here is a visual to explain WHY I need to be stronger, lighter and have bigger wind.

Show jumping - just ONE of the events - is chaining several jumps together.

I can do TWO in a row so far...not quite enough.

My ab/leg work should really help - and that's why the Jingle Jiggle Challenge is a great one for me.

What do YOU need muscles for?