Size 12

I can't recall ever owning size 12 clothes...I now have three dresses, two pairs of pants, and a jacket that are all size 12. I am not completely in a 12, yet, that is that some brands I still have to buy the 14, but I am on my way! It is an incredible feeling. I was wearing 22's not too long ago. I know this is not an amazingly profound post, especially after the suffering of Elicia, but I just thought I would chime in.

Oh, and I will be traveling to E. Washington for the week, so I will check in with you all on Sunday. I don't have a lap top.

Jules

Sometimes you're just DOWN!

I wanted to post briefly about what I'm struggling with. I haven't been back up on the horse since celebrating my last up. The following time I tried to go, and got all geared up (literally, there is so much GARB; breeches, long socks, half chaps, boots, helmet, gloves) the other girl who rides Poppy was getting ready to ride - argh!

I am in a fibromyalgia flare up. This means I pretty much feel like I'm being dipped in acid. Each movement hurts. I posted a bit about how this affects me on my blog. I've spent more time in bed over the past few days than I like to admit. Especially when its nice.

To make myself feel like I'm not completely out of the health loop though, I've been doing my isometrics on the floor at night. I also use those dumbells you may see on my headboard. I have a dense 5 lb ball too I use. What can you do?

So, I'm praying this will be over soon and I'll be up and at em. Join me?

Have you ladies been sized lately????

Hello ladies and your ladies! I decided it was time to get in and get a sizing done on the girls. I have lost 10 pounds and my bras were not fitting well at all. Actually it seems to be a battle I have fought for years. About 2 months ago I went to Victoria's Secret and had a lady size me. The bra ended up fitting terribly. I thought it was fine in the store, but after wearing it for a couple of weeks, I hated it. So, I finally went into Nordstrom yesterday and had a fitting done there. So worth the drive. The gal must have spent 40 minutes with me. She first sized around my ribs, then got bras in different cup sizes to try them on with me.She showed me how the bra should be fitting, which was much lower on my back than I was accustomed to. I was TOTALLY surprised at my size as well. I really thought I KNEW my bra size, I had seen Oprah after all! Well, now I am on a mission to get a few new bras in my new size. And I have to admit, the bras in the size she put me in were SO Much more comfortable than the ones I have been wearing. So, I thought I would post it here, especially considering how much weight so many of you have lost. So....when was the last time you had your bra size checked? Maybe it is time?
Have a great day everyone!!
Tina

renewed inspiration

Hello Ladies,
I am starting yet once again. This time I am trying the Prism program. Hopefully it will be more conducive to lifestyle eating than the other plan I was on that felt like a diet I couldn't wait to be done with. Since starting to lose weight in January I've lost 20 lbs. My goal is to lose 8 lbs by the fall frolic ( which is one pound a week). I've already started aerobic walking 5 times a week for 60 minutes each time. Wish me luck! Here is a recent photo of me after losing the 20 lbs.

Seventy pounds G-O-N-E !!!

The scale was kind to me this morning, as I read it, I just grinned from ear to ear. : ) Numbers have such a psychological power over us, don't they? They probably shouldn't, but they do.
This week I started walking in the evenings, just to change up my excercising plan a bit. I am still going to do strength training five days a week, and hopefully be walking three to four nights a week. I know the extra cardio will do me good. Last night I took my oldest son on a three mile walk on a nicely paved river front trail about 1 1/2 miles from our home. It just feels so good to be more active, and to be feeling good about MYSELF.

Tues. 7/25 : 1,267 calories, 10 glasses of water, workout
Wed. 7/26 : 1,502 calories, 10 glasses of water, workout, + walk in p.m.
Thur. 7/27 : 1,547 calories, 16 glasses of water, workout, + walk at zoo
Fri. 7/28 : 1,489 calories, 12 glasses of water, workout, + walk in p.m.

I'm Alive!!!

Hey all-
It has been awhile since I last posted. I am three weeks behind if I remember correctly. YIKES! Okay the first week I lost .6 pounds. That really depressed me until Julie reminded me that was over two sticks of butter. Yeah me! Thanks Julie. The following week I lost another .6 pounds. I remembered Julies point of view and went about my day with a smile. Then a shift took place....

My in-laws took the kids for a few days and my hubby and I decided to celebrate. We went to the movies and yes I ate the popcorn! UGH!! We also indulged in a cookie and a few latte's as well. That was nothing compared to what I ate when we went to Spokane to pick the kids up. A few cookies and a smore where some of the not so great choices I made. I did however make it a point to swim a lot to burn up some of the extra calories I was eating. This week I gained .8 pounds. I am not that surprised actually. I guess I expected it.

there is a good part to this story. I took my measurements a week ago and I have lost another inch off of my waist and hips. I also have taken a moment to re-evaluate what I am trying to do and how I am doing it. For the first few weeks of this program I surrendered my ideas to the program and just followed it. Well I got results and so it was pretty easy to stick to the program. I did however leave a portion of myself behind. I don't do artificial sweeteners. I just don't. But lately......I have been. It has bothered me but I could justify it because it works in my weightloss program. The same goes for latte's or chocolate pudding. I can eat anything even if it isn't good for me as long as I count the points. This has led to some self indulgence and a lack of self discipline. Now I still count the points, which is disciplined but I am not eating the foods that will feed my body for a lifetime. With my current backslide of .8 pounds I have found my "why" once again. Why I am doing this and what it means to me. I have also found my "who"
Who I am and what I want to put into my body. I So I am actually thankful for the gain as it has caused me to redirect my actions and re-evaluate my goals.

Here is the skinny-

I will exercise 3 times per week (even if I can't get to the gym I can still exercise)
I will not drink artificially sweetened beverages
I will limit my latte' experience to once a week
I can have a small dessert once a week
I will drink 8 glasses of water a day.

These are habits that I need to lead a healthy life, which is more important to me than a skinny life. If I get skinny using other habits I won't be happy. If I am fat using these habits then something is wrong- So I am moving onward.

I will post on next Friday. My next goal is to hit the 130's-

Jenny

New blog

Hey, girls...I have a new blog I wanted to let you know about. I really love to read, and I have found that I have seriously increased my reading as I have decreased my food intake. Funny! I think I am trading addictions. So, I wanted a place to chronicle my reading and make suggestions and do book reviews. I have just started today, so there is not that much there, but if you want to bookmark the blog and check back now and again, I am sure I will have new posts up soon.

Oh, and thanks to Blake for the title suggestion.

Jules

I made it!!!!

Well, my Friday morning official weigh in states I have made re-entry into the 130's! I am officially at 139! I am looking forward to soon being at my goal weight, again.
Thanks all!
Tina

Down another 3 inches!

Hey at this stage in the game, I'll be very happy with that three inches! I kind of had my doubts when I asked her to measure me. This last week I had allowed myself to eat a lot more than I have been. A couple of days up until the reunion, and then over the whole weekend, my choices weren't the best. BUT, the last few days I've stared journaling again, and I have a new goal to be down a solid 75 pounds by the Fall Frolic, which is in the third week of September. Right now I'm at a 67 pound loss. So if I can lose just one pound a week, I'll be right on track.
Anyhow, I'd like to brag about my measurements... I'm now down exactly 61 inches! And this is how they break down: 9 off of my bust, 10.5 off of my waist, 11.75 from my abs, 12.25 from my hips, 9 from my thighs, and 8.5 from my arms. My body fat percentage has gone down a solid 8.7% too. In the last four weeks, my body fat percentage has gone down down a whole 1%. I'm very excited about that number.

Purple

Today I am wearing PURPLE....find out why at www.athenainaminivan.blogs.com.

Fourteen . Six

Hi. So I'm now officially down 14.6 pounds. This weekend I went away to a bridal shower out of town. I was staying at my friend the bride's house, and brought my food scale. When possible, I measured my food out. When not possible, I did the best I could. I brought my own fruit and bagels for breakfast.
I did have one moment of weakness. After the shower we went out for dinner. I had been really, really good at the shower, despite the absolutely mouth-watering looking lasagna that I was dying for. And instead of cake I had one (1, count them) chocolate strawberry. Then we went out to dinner. And I got wings and cheese fries. I KNOW, not the best. Actually, the worst. But I had about six wings and a handful of fries. I didn't scarf, like I would have in the past. I stopped eating - not when I was full, because my perception of when I'm full and the reality of it are two different things- but when I knew I had had enough food.
And I lost two pounds for the week!!

Here are the numbers:
Monday, 7/17: 885 calories (I'm sorry I think this is an overlap), 14 glasses water, workout
Tuesday, 7/18: 1048 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Wednesday, 7/19: 1257 calories, 14 glasses water,
Thursday, 7/20: 1414 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Friday, 7/21: 1271 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Saturday, 7/22: 1613 calories, 11 glasses water, (cheese fries and wings day)
Sunday, 7/23: 1250 calories, 14 glasses water
Monday, 7/24: 1406 calories, 14 glasses water, workout

There they are, on to next week!

And she danced!

100_3444, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

Willem took this of me. I had such an amazing time! I felt on top of the world. I walked with my head high, and my shoulders back.
The first night, Willem and I didn't make it home until about 3:00 am. We scooted out about 11:15 the second night. We were Exhausted! The boys only allowed me about three hours of sleep that first night. We all had such a great weekend though. We took the boys up to Fort Casey, and really had a wonderful family day. My mom has an amazing piece of property, with a wonderful view of Puget Sound.
I'm so glad that I made this reunion. I feel like I've totally been released from my past, and the ugly little box that I had errected around myself for all of those years. I also got A LOT of compliments on my appearance. Everyone recognised me right off the bat. I felt beautiful, and I felt confident. And no one could make me feel otherwise.

A close up

100_3434, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

I have my hand on Lisa's shoulder. She was my best, and goofiest friend, my Junior and Senior year. We were pretty much out of control together, back in high school. She made me laugh so hard over the weekend, reminiscing our teenaged years.

Not quite half of my graduating class

100_3433, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

I'm in the second row, on the right.

Jenna and I

100_3439, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

I've also known Jenna since kindergarden, but haven't seen her in ten years!

Me & the Homecoming king!

100_3447, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

This is Jeff Alexander, he was the most popular boy in my class. I was always too afraid to talk to him... I've known him since kindergarden. I had a HUGE crush on him the 1st through the 6th grade!

The second day

100_3425, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

Me and my honey, trying to stay cool. He was the best dressed man there!

The first outfit

100_3349, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

I felt so cute in my snug capris, with my tan wedges, and sexxy blouse.

The Day

100_3345, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

Here I am with my oldest child, getting ready to leave for the first night of my reunion. We're at my mom's house, on Whidbey Island.

Still having troubles....

Hi everyone!
I just wanted to update everyone since I've been in hiding. I was in this 100% until I got back from Cabo! For some reason my mind is not into my weight loss. I'm continuing to sabotage myself once I go under the 200's so then I go over the 200's. I decided that I need to take a different approach at this. I believe that I have so much unresolved junk in me that it's keeping me at this weight. So I've looked into a counselor and I go and see him on Tuesday. I am hoping to have some good changes happen soon so I can join all of you in your celebrations. I'm so frustrated that I help people everyday in their challenges at work but yet I can't help myself in my challenges. All of you are doing so great! I want to thank everyone for their support and encouragement. I will keep everyone posted but it might be a little bit before the next one. I also need to work on avoiding being held accountable. If I don't post then I think that everything is good because I don't have to admit it. I'll talk to all of you soon.

Coreen

Don't forget to DRINK lots of WATER

Just wanted to remind you to drink lots of water ladies. It'll be a hot one where I live (and where many of you live) so be sure to care for your body today!

We deserve it, right?

The final five...

I thought losing those last ten pounds would be hard. Well, I am halfway through that goal and now on to the final five. I have struggled the past couple of weeks but am happy to say I maintained one week and this week, to my great surprise I was down a pound. So, here I move onto the final 5. Today I am at 140 even, so I am hoping by next week to report I am back into the 130's! And for those of you who enjoy working out at home on videos or dvd's, I have found a new love, it is called "Core Secrets". I bought my first DVD and used it yesterday. 30 minutes of weights and weights on a balance ball. It kicked my butt. It has been months since I have been sore from a workout, but I am sore this morning and it feels great! Worked all kinds of new muscles and I am now on the hunt for more of these workouts. They are simple and straightforward, it is not all showy and bimbo-ee and I am looking forward to some great results. Well, have a great weekend everyone! Thanks for all your posts and great support here. I really feel I would not have made it this far without all of you!
Tina

I broke the 180's!

This is a report from a very stunned, but very happy, happy lady! Holy cow! I knew I would see a bit of movement from the scale, but I did not plan to see the results I did. I had to reweigh myself 4 times just to make sure I wasn't standing crooked or something! As my ticker shows, I am down to 178.4! I have really accelerated the weight loss this last week, and the way I think I have done it is by cutting off my eating at 8 PM. This sounds so easy...believe me, it is NOT! My husband gets home from work Tue and Wed at about 9:45 and he always has a snack. It is so hard not to join him. Last night it was popcorn...so hard. But I did it. And it has paid off. I have also worked out at the YMCA twice, walked around the zoo and went swimming twice with the kids. That helps, I am sure.

Anyway, I felt stuck in the 180's for so long, I was beginning to lose hope. It feels awesome to break that barrier.

Jules

I have been having a Summer

I have been trying to not spend as much time on the computer this summer as "things happen" when I am not paying attention to the 2 year old. Today he spilled the hamster food all over the family room. He is just at that age where he needs to be watched. I can't gate off the entire house.

I am still on track and still losing. This week following my time of the month where I always have a gain, I lost 5.6 lbs. I am eating all the yummy summer veggies, fruits and eating very little meat or bread. We have been swimming everyday to beat the 105 temperature. I cleared off the exercise bike that doubled as a clothes rack and have been riding it while watching one of my favorite Food Network shows.

I do try to read all the updates every few days. I am so proud to be a part of this group of ladies. The support is so great and I get many good ideas from everyone.

Off to fix some breakfast for three hungry boys then for a swim before the sun gets to intense.

Amy (Athenainaminivan)

Living a fuller life!

I am pleased to say that I have ventured out of my house alot with my boys this week. I have taken them to four different parks, within the last four days. This is something that I RARELY used to do. I am the type of person that thoroughly enjoys staying home, and staying in my routine. But this week I've just had the itch to do something with my kids. Now that I weigh less, and have been working out, I have a lot more energy. And I kind of have this feeling like I want to make up for lost time. I want my kids to have happy, fun filled memories of them with me in their growing up years.
I've even contemplated finding a local track in the evenings to start jogging, and taking my oldest son with me, perhaps to ride his bike? I don't know, I just feel different this week. I feel youthful, and energized. That, in and of itself, is an amazing transformation. And I am thankful for this radical change in me. For in it, my family also reaps the rewards.

Powerful Motivation

Jules asked me if she had scared me away, and I told her I hadn't been posting because I haven't been doing so well and am having trouble with motivation. So, I thought I'd share a post from my personal blog here.

Originally posted on Sob'ah My Soul.


My weight loss efforts are not paying off. I keep losing and gaining the same four pounds. I lose them, my clothes feel a little loser, my step a little springier, and then I relax, let myself have a little "treat". Then after a week of "treats" my clothes are uncomfortable again and I'm berating myself for being so undisciplined.

If only I could find the thing that will motivate me even after I've begun to relax. I need a loud and powerful motivation like Mel has found.

In Body for Life for Women, Dr. Pamela M. Peeke writes about finding the thing that will motivate you. It has to be something powerful that touches on real emotions because late at night when you're looking in the fridge at the leftovers you need something that keeps you from letting yourself have a little "treat". She suggests creating a sentence that begins with "I'm running from,..." and then ends with, ",...and running to,..." So, it's high time I created my powerful motivating sentences.

I'm running from tight clothes that pinch and bind and running to clothes that drape my body making me feel beautiful and sexy.

I'm running from belly rolls and back fat and running to sleek and slender thighs.

I'm running from feeling sluggish, tired, and old and running to feeling young again.

I'm running from frumpy and running to gorgeous.

I'm running from brownies and Doritos for comfort and running to the Lord.

Twelve

So... sorry I didn't post my update yesterday. My husband has been taking the computer to work, and I've been running late, making it tough to post!

I am down one pound this week. It wasn't my best week. Thursday I went to Olive Garden with some friends, and decided I was going to "enjoy myself" which I persist in thinking means I have to eat unhealthy. Whatever. It's slowly getting through my brain that I can make healthy choices and still enjoy myself. So two breadsticks, two plates of salad, and half a plate of steak gorgonzola alfredo later, I was full... I haven't been FULL in a while and I didn't necessarily love the feeling.

Also? I learned this: it's still really dangerous for me to venture away from my plan. Because the next two nights, I did it again. Friday we went to a steak house. I wasn't horrible, but did have salad with ranch dressing, cheese, and croutons and a baked potato with lots of butter and sour cream. Then Saturday I decided I really wanted fast food and got a cheesburger, curly fries, and a milkshake.

I've been back on track since then, but this does remind me that eating poorly is a VERY slippery slope for me. It reprimands me and also scares me. Will I ever be able to eat just one "cheating" meal and not pay for it for three days... a week... a month... sixty pounds? I don't know, to be honest.

So for about a minute I pouted that I had not lost more, and then I remembered my little vacation from the exchanges, and was grateful I was still down a pound.

Here are the cold hard numbers. I didn't calculate the calories for the Olive Garden dinner because NO IDEA.

Monday, 7/10: 1183 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Tuesday, 7/11: 1439 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Wednesday, 7/12: 1302 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Thursday, 7/13: ??? calories (OG), 14 glasses water, workout
Friday, 7/14: 1504 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Saturday, 7/15: 1950 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Sunday, 7/16: 1175 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Monday, 7/17: 885 calories (MISTAKE), 14 glasses water, workout.

Down one pound, from 200.2 to 199.2, for a total of 12.4
~Paige

Back on that Horse

I'm not an excerciser. I don't run. I'm not signed up at a gym, or the YMCA. I'm not even all that athletic. So, when it came to figuring out how I was going to get in my 20 minutes 3x a week, I was stumped.

The answer came by finding an activity I actually enjoy, and doing that. Its not working out then, its doing something I enjoy and OH! Joy! I actually get a work out at the same time!

I've added surfing excercises to my night time regime (girly push ups and stuff) so that when I go to Hawaii again in a month, I'll be able to have more endurance. Its pretty hard to paddle out.

So - I am posting this because I am reporting I have ridden twice so far in the past seven days and I plan to get my hiney up again once this week at least. Gotta get back on that horse after a month long hiatius.

Starting the Week off Right

I met briefly with a client today who, as we were wrapping up our meeting, goes "you look really great - what have you been doing?" So I told him about you guys and he smiled.

And I know he wasn't making up the looking great part. He's clergy; they can't lie.

That sure does brighten up a Monday!

Six days, and counting...

This time next week, I will be on Whidbey Island for my reunion. I was just going to do the Saturday, Sunday thing. But I've changed my mind. I'm wanting to do the Friday night get together as well. It's a casual night, where everyone is just meeting for drinks at one of the larger restaurants and bars. Initially I wasn't really wanting to go, because I know that several people will most likely be getting drunk. But then I thought, as a christian, I could go and have a couple of glasses of wine,(maybe even a mixed drink). We could always leave before things got out of hand.
I've been working so hard to get this weight off. This week, I worked out seven times, in six days for Pete's sake! And I'm feeling so good about myself, especially after finding that picture of me from last summer. That doesn't even look like me anymore. I figure there won't be a chance like this for another ten more years, and I should make the most out of this opportunity to see everyone.
So, six days and counting. I can't wait!

Weigh in

Hi everyone! Jeez, you take a couple of days off the internet and come back to loads of posts and inspiration! Our computer room is currently torn apart as we paint. But anyway. At the end of my second six week phase I weighed in a few days early so as to try to avoid the unfortunate side affects that come along with my period. Well, I weighed and started my period the next day (yuck and early). So, now that it is over, out of curiosity, I weighed in while at the Y today and I am actually down another four pounds than I thought!! Woo hoo! that puts me past the half way mark and the next stop for me is the 150s baby!!
I am glad you are all still around and doing so well:)
SueAnne

Whoosh!

Okay, I don't have any fat pictures of me to post at the moment (or skinny ones for that matter) but my starting over seems to have kickstarted quite a bit.

I was doing well for a while before I reset and I kind of knew that it would catch up with me at some point. Since I reset (all 5 days so far) I have been doing really well - making a conscious effort to drink enough water (and a quick aside: does anyone else feel like all they do each day is pee?), watching what goes into my body, spacing out meals so that I'm not hungry, and staying psyched about myself.

Today the past goodness and current goodness caught up with me. The scales showed me down 4 pounds this morning.

I'm eating enough (1200-1400 cals/day), I'm not running myself ragged (tennis a couple times a week, skipped yoga), and I realize that a lot of this is probably water - but 4 pounds in 5 days? This can't be healthy, can it?

Don't get me wrong. If the scales show me down, I'll be happy. I just want to make sure I'm not sabotaging my metabolism in the process...

Here I am last summer... yowza!

100_0400, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

You know when you put on an outfit, and feel cute in it? Well, that's how I felt this day, until I saw the photo! It's a wonder that I didn't delete it right away. I'm glad that I didn't.

Day 186: 1,480 calories, 12 glasses of water, workout
Day 187: 1,361 calories, 9 glasses of water, workout
Day 188: 1,782 calories, 9 glasses of water
Day 189: 1,331 calories, 12 glasses of water, worked out twice!
Day 190: 1,704 calories, 12 glasses of water, workout
Day 191: 1,456 calories, 12 glasses of water, workout

Feelin' pretty

100_3336, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

Wow, I put on makeup just to go to the grocery store! I remember when I'd only where it like once a week. I'm taking such better care of myself now. And in more ways than one.

Feelin' skinny

100_3344, originally uploaded by willemkristina@verizon.net.

These are my capris that I bought at the Spring Hurrah... and they are too big! Yippee!!

I made my 50 lb. mark! (Photos below)

I am posting to declare that I made my 50 lb. mark this week! It is a big accomplishment and I am proud of myself and I am so, so thankful to all of you for your amazing support of me. I am a new woman and I am looking forward as a child looks forward to visiting Disneyland for the first time, of reaching my goal weight. I hope to reach it by the new year.

I am newly inspired by an Oprah show I saw this week. She is doing some things that I am not, but that I could easily incorporate into my world.

#1 Have a cut off time 2-3 hours before bed. My cut off time for eating is 8PM. I have done it the last 2 days and it is hard! Several nights a week, my husband gets home at about 9:45. I like to have a snack with him. No more. I am going to do this one. Bob Green (Oprah's trainer) says that this is the MOST important rule. Wow.

#2 No more alcoholic beverages for me. I have about 4 diet cokes and rums a week. They aren't that many calories, but they mess with my metabolism. This is a sad one for me. I enjoy them....maybe too much. Sigh.

#3 Work out 5 mornings a week and add two late afternoon workouts as well. This will be my most challenging. Not because I don't belong to a gym (I do, the YMCA) and not because I can't find the time....it will be the most challenging because it takes the most effort and I will have to overcome my self image of myself. I do not see myself, fully, as an active person. In Weight Watchers, they called this acquiring an AI and Active Identity. My mom never had this AI and so I never had it either(or rarely). I went through spurts of it in High School. I ran, rode a stationary bike, and was on a softball team, but in between doing those things, I just vegged and did not see myself as an "exerciser".

Pray for me. I am trying to stir up the pot a little here. I am proud of where I am now and how far I have come, but I have more to go. I know the last 42 lbs are not going to come off just by wishing it.

Jules

50 lbs gone

50 lbs gone
Originally uploaded by Shutterbugphoto.

This was taken this morning by my daughter Becca. Before hair and makeup...sorry. I am so happy for my progress. Thank you all.

Jules

Thanksgiving 2001 crop

Thanksgiving 2001 crop
Originally uploaded by Shutterbugphoto.

This is the worst photo of me. It was a happy day, but oh my....I have no clue what I weighed here. It was at a time in my life when I did not weigh myself. My 4th baby was about 14 months old and I would be pregnant with my 5th 7 months from this photo. I had just started a walking routine with a gal I met at the library. She lent me beautiful dishes for Thanksgiving that year. I have come a long way. Thank God for his strength and for his Spirit breaking through to me and showing me my self denial.

Me pumpkins 10-05

Me pumpkins 10-05
Originally uploaded by Shutterbugphoto.

Here I am 2 months before I really got serious about losing the weight. I am estimating that I was about 220 here. I remember the first time I saw this photo. I realized then that my self image of myself was way off from reality. I thought I was a lot thinner and I was lying to myself about the true state of my health.

me 232

me 232
Originally uploaded by Shutterbugphoto.

I have posted this before, it will forever be my reference photo. Oprah says to "Own the number". Well, I am owning it. Here I am at my highest "known" weight, 232.

What I saw at the zoo today made me think....

How much will does that snake have? It wants that lil mouse in its BELLY!
How willing are you to give yourself what your body needs?

And, when you fail, are you 'gaggin a snake?'
Like, when I scarfed down that piece of cake today?

I promised....

Ok, so I promised to post today...and here I am. I got to see what is left of both Julie and Kristina today. Wow, it is amazing what a few months of very hard work can do to a girl! Anyway, here is a before shot of me. This is at my highest weight after having my daughter, Atira in 2000. I was 165 there. I had gestational diabetes with her and I knew I needed to get healthy so I would not someday become a diabetic. I am now down to 141, but I have been at an all time low (since adulthood) of 135. That is my goal, to get back to the 135. I had gained back about 14 pounds, very slowly over about 1 1/2 years. But I knew I needed to get back on track and here I am. This week has been tough, we had a conference we went away for last weekend, came home to the fourth, which was not so bad for me. But I have had a heck of a time getting motivated again. I do great all day and then dinner hits and I am not in the mood anymore. We have also been to the movies several times and that popcorn was calling me. Dangit! Well, today has been great, I am on program and will stay that way today. I lost my water bottle so I am not drinking my water like I should. I need to go out and buy a new one. So, there is the story of me lately. Still trucking along. I have until August 28 to lose the weight or I will have to pay for another 3 months at Ediets, so that is my goal. 6 weeks to get off the last 6 pounds. I think that is doable..we will see. If not, I will sign up again and keep at it! Oh, I just recently purchased (by mail) a new workout, Core secrets, anyone ever try it? I am trying to jazz up my routines again. I think I have workout ADD. I get bored very quickly with them. Ok all, keep it up, keep away from the mochas and all holidays. That should do it. Off to try and steal my tv back from the kids.
Gnight,
Tina

Just a small pitty party

Tonight I am having just a small pitty party. I have had two of my best friends move away this summer. I know these friends are still friends but I will miss the day to day interaction that we have had. One is moving to NJ due to a husband's new job. We can still talk on the phone. The other has moved 6 hours away to West Texas. One of my love languages is quality time. It is hard to have quality time over the phone.

I am making some new friends but it takes time. Tomorrow I am spending time with a fellow homeschooling mom with children similar in age to mine and she is even going to be using AmblesideOnline . We will both be using Year 1 and this year should bring many opportunities to be together. Our kids like each other. The mom is shy. I am not. It just takes time. I want to eat over these feelings but I am not going to . This too shall pass.

The woman, who lost the equivilant of a ten year old girl!

Here I am with Julie's oldest daughter. She is ten years old and weighs 65 pounds. We thought you might get a kick out of a visual. I certainly did! : )

Eleven.

I know it's been a while since I posted my calories. After going to Cape Cod, we then had my niece and nephew here for the weekend. Good fun, but very busy! Last week I was finally back on track 100%. And it paid off! I was down 3.2 pounds this week for a total of 11.4 pounds in six weeks!! I'm so thrilled. I think my mini-goal of 20 pounds by the end of August is totally doable, which makes me so excited!

Today, at work, the girls were asking how much I had lost and saying they already notice a difference. For someone who has alot of weight to lose (total undetermined at this point fo my motivation's sake), that felt really really good.

Here's the proof! (the first two days I was way under, and not totally sure why. I kept better track after that though.)

Monday, 7/3/06: 999 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Tuesday, 7/4/06: 1132 calories, 14 glasses water, workout
Wednesday, 7/5/06: 1312 calories, 14 glasses water
Thrusday, 7/6/06: 1475 calories, 15 glasses water, workout
Friday, 7/7/06: 1359 calories, 11 glasses water, workout
Saturday, 7/8/06: 1279 calories, 11 glasses water, workout
Sunday, 7/9/06: 1434 calories, 13 glasses water

fresh start

Hey y'all,
its been forever since i wrote anything official. I finished up my school year student teaching, which was awesome. Then I jetted back to NYC for ten days for job fairs for when I move out there in August. I got back in time to celebrate the 4th, which I'm sure you'll all agree is not the easiest way to stay on track. Oh well, I'm back on track now, eating my bowl of cheerios in the morning. On the last phases I finished with Prism I lost 7 lbs, which considering the stress and traveling I've been doing is great by me. I just bought my first ever pair of size 8 jeans!!! Pretty sweet. I love wearing them. This week I'm back on the program, and doing pretty good. The water is always hard for me, but I've been getting exercise in and losts of fruit. Little by little, I'll be full force. Thanks for all your updates, it really does encourage me that I'm not alone in this. :)
Mandi

Mochas are evil........Mochas are evil...........

Just keep telling myself that right? I have had FOUR in eight days! I am sticking to the rest of my plan, but can't stay of my drug of choice. How does that bible verse go? "....like a dog returning to it's own vomit." Yep that is me right now. I am just stuck. Uuuugh!
SueAnne

Starting Over

I have officially stalled. I have gained and lost, gained and lost, gained and lost the same 2 pounds for about a month now and my motivation is at an all-time low.

So I'm starting over.

I'm one of those people who has to be able to see how far they've come, who as a point of pride have to show real progress. Once I have done that, however, motivation kind of falls apart. So I'm resetting my ticker and my butter-stick count as of today. Hopefully this will kick me back into gear.

I'm sorry I haven't posted for awhile, but things have been a little crazy. My office is moving downtown (and if you've ever moved a law office, you know just how many boxes and files you have to go through before you can move). But my reward is next month I'm going to spend some time in Guatemala - I'd like to be in the position where I won't be worried so much about counting calories of the local fare while I'm there, mostly because I'm not sure I can!

Much love to you all,
Lisa

Sitting area

Here are the pictures of the patio sitting area we just put together.

I think I've been over celebrating. I checked the scale this morning and it wasn't kind. Good thing I don't have to weigh in until Wed. I need to re-adjust my mouth and mind and get back to it. I haven't been eating the wrong things, just too much of the right things. I walked three miles yesterday and will do that again today, and for the rest of the week plus the gym stuff. I've also been getting in all of my water....so back on track (choo choo).

It was six months ago today ...

It was six months ago today, on January the 8th, (our wedding anniversary)that something just resounded in me. I was miserable with my physical appearance, as I had climbed to my heaviest weight ever. I had no energy, and I remember putting on my makeup to go out on a date with my husband. As I looked in the mirror, I was depressed. Because no matter at what angle that I looked at myself, I was fat. No matter how perfect my makeup and hair looked, I felt so very unattractive. And it was on that day, that I had made up my mind, that tomorrow, I'm getting my butt out of bed, and I'm going to work out if it kills me! It was on that day, that I had decided to take back control of my life, to take back control of my appetite.
You guys, when I weighed myself this morning, I had broken into the 180's, and I almost cried. When you start off at over 250 pounds, all you can think about is how much you have to lose just to get down to 200. I'm down to 189, and have lost 66 pounds exactly. Maybe I'm p.m.s.-ing, because even now, I feel so happy that I could cry. Just when I think it's impossible to lose any more, I lose more. It's an amazing thing to me. It's an amazing thing.

How to take time for me-

I was in the shower this morning thinking about my life and this idea popped into my head. Why is it that when the going gets tough my needs get placed on the back burner? I have to really ask myself this question often. I am continually amazed at how often I bend and go out of my way to handle certain situations, or to soften the blow for others. Now don't get me wrong- this is not a complaint, just an observation. The last 3 to 4 weeks of my life feel like they have been lived on autopilot. I feel as if there has been so much to do and so many obligations that I have been treading water, so to speak, to just keep from drowning. Now that things have slowed down the rebellion kicks in. You know the rebellion that says I have earned that mixed drink or I am to darn tired to go workout. I can come up with all kinds of evidence that I am justified in my rebellious relaxation by just looking at how stinking busy I have been.

I am recognizing a pattern of self neglect. I have often called this self neglect "motherhood". You know that if the baby cries in the middle of the night you have to go feed it regardless if you feel like it or not. Well my babies have grown out of that stage and I still find myself in that "mothering- do it all" mode. Often it comes in the form of projects. The CD project of my hubby's, our homeschool projects, our home improvement projects, extended family obligations etc.... Pretty soon I am looking at my food journal and realizing that I haven't eaten a real food item all week. I have survived off of carrot sticks, energy bars and diet Pepsi. ( I know carrots are real food but you can't live off of just carrots!)

Well, needless to say this is not okay with me. Somehow I have to learn to work in me time everyday. Even when everyone else is standing around me screaming for my attention. In fact on those days I need to work in EXTRA me time. It is so hard for me to get used to doing that. I go into fix- it mode, and I put myself at the end of the list. I weighed in today and I have lost .8 pounds for the week. Not a lot, but still a loss. I have also slowed down enough to realize that I have been running at full steam and putting myself last. If this weightloss plan is going to be something I can maintain I need to be eating things that are healthy. I think the hardest part for me is that I have known I wasn't eating super healthy and I kept doing it because it was easy and fast. Alas I have found the only error in the Weight Watcher points plan. It doesn't matter what you are eating as long as you are only eating a certain amount of points. You can have chocolate pudding, energy bars, a mocha and a bowl of popcorn. See what I mean, not a sustainable way of eating. Now I still love the program and I am still losing weight. I am just making a new commitment to taking the time I need to make healthy choices.
This means planning ahead and putting me first occasionally. It means being prepared with healthy snacks and pre-made meals for life's unexpected chaos. It means taking my vitamins and drinking my water. ( I have done better in this area lately!)
I guess there is a little bit of guilt associated with putting myself first. Somewhere I feel like that isn't my job. Funny hu? So... this week I commit to putting myself first and meeting my goals.

Jenny V.

P.S. My dear hubby said to me tonight- " I am not sure you should lose anymore weight, there will be nothing left of you." Isn't that the sweetest! Of course I promptly showed him all the jiggly parts I still have left to lose so he wouldn't worry about me wasting away. Ba,ha,ha!!

Cholesterol test results

Hey all, I went to see the Doc today to discuss my cholesterol test and there is some good news: My overall number has gone from 247 to 221. And she was really impressed by my weight loss and all I am doing at creating a new lifestyle for myself. Ultimately, though, she said that there is probably little more I can do to change my cholesterol through diet and exercise. It is heredity that has given me the numbers. But as long as I am working out and eating right, the numbers can't harm me and I am decreasing my chance for cancer as well as any heart related disease. She said she would not even consider putting me on any medication or anything. So that was super news. I learned a lot too.

AS far as my last two weeks on Prism goes, I am definitely back on track. I have journaled each week and I am staying within my limits. So hurrah for me! I still need to make it to the YMCA more often. That will boost my metabolism. We are putting our rental house on the market next week so I have been doing gardening and working a lot. I have been very active, just not involved in "official" workout time.

Love you all. Thanks for keeping this blog alive and well and thanks for giving of yourself to others.

Jules

Quote of the week...

My younger sister in Atlanta called and left a message on my voice mail the other day. Upon receiving some recent photos of me in my new outfit. She said, and I quote: 'It looks like we've got to give you a new knick name... Kris- skinny! It is really amazing how much you have changed!' Oh, sisters, sometimes they know just what to say. : )
Anyhow, I haven't recored my calories and such on line for a while because I left like a weeks worth over at Julie's house. So I'll just pick up from this week.

Day 182: 1,569 calories, 14 glasses of water, workout
Day 183: 4th of July, no journaling
Day 184: 1,254 calories, 13 glasses of water, workout
Day 185: 1,374 calories, 13 glasses of water, worked out twice!

Phase 2 weigh in

Hello Everyone!
It is time for me to weigh in again. Phase 2 was not as impressive as Phase 1 but I know why ( a few chocolate detours on my journey). But I am still happy and on track. Phase 2 loss:

5 pounds (23 total)
2 inches (17 total)

I weighed and measured a couple of days early so that I would not be right on my cycle at the time. Anything to boost the numbers! My goal for the next six weeks of my program is to add two strengthening sessions to my workout schedule and to break the HALF WAY mark. Just not quite there!
Blessings!
SueAnne

Neener Neener Fellow Classmates!

I am so excited for Kris' High School Reunion that I couldn't help but post a silly photo of her as well!

Three Cheers to all of you who are sticking to your plans! If you're wavering, STAND ON! You too can have the smug look of satisfaction you've earned as well!

So - Here's to the BEST REVENGE; LIVING WELL!

Building a patio was the key

This week I weighed in 1.6lbs lighter and I think the genie in the bottle was building a new patio for a seating area with a firebowl. (I'll post a picture when the rain stops) I'm almost down to my lowest loss!!! Another pound and I'll be under. I can't believe it. I had gained almost 10lbs in a teeter-totter of gains and losses over the last 2 years and struggled with a plateau for the last year. I really want to see this over, but 'me body' is just too used to the reduce calories and the gym workouts. I'm going to have to continue shaking things up. I finished with the yard (sigh) and there's no more totin barges and liftin bales. HELP! I may have to add a day or two to my spinning class and walk on my weight lifting days. Boy, I hope it isn't going to take all that to maintain, once I get there. I know I will continue to eat right and exercise, but I hope I don't have to kill myself.

More shots up of 1st of July party

Face Kristina, originally uploaded by Shutterbugphoto.

Ok, I worked through Flickr to get these photos up. Blogger was being persnickety. Happy 4th to one and all!

Mandi! I'm sending you a high five!

Girl, you didn't post your seven pound loss! That is GREAT! Especially since you spent that 1 1/2 to 2 weeks in New York, looking for a teaching position. Now that, could be stressful. Good job Mandi. Now, time for some more photos. : )

A few shots from Jule's party

Julie hosted a 4th of July party a few days early, and there were more in attendance than I can count. They have the perfect home, and yard for entertaining. It was such a blast! Jules looked great, and Elicia looked fab, as usual. Not every one can pull off a spaghetti strapped top. : )

Down 41 Inches!

Kristina measured me on Thursday. I am down another 10 inches from April. 41 inches gone! I have lost 8.5 inches from my waist, 4 inches off my bust, and 6 inches off my hips. I only lost 3 lbs. last phase, but I am back on track and moving in the right direction. I am putting myself first again. I went in yesterday for a blood draw to check on my Cholesterol levels. That will tell the real story, my friends. I will report to you when I get the results. Thanks for the support and Happy 4th of July!

Jules

Down another 1.6!

I actually lost some more weight. I'm up to 63.6 pounds now. I keep expecting to gain, or at least stay at the same place. Even though I'm still working out five days and eating well, I don't know, I just don't fully expect to keep losing. Even though that is my aim. It's like, you set this enormous goal, and you hope to attain it. I still can't believe that this plan is working so effectively. I'm feeling so great. But it's a little weird too. I'm getting a lot more attention from men, like when I was younger. It's been so long since the opposite sex has paid me any mind,( Except for my hubby, of course). I'm trying to sort through the feelings. Naturally, I enjoy feeling attractive, but then you get the gawkers, and I don't like that... I REALLY don't like that. I had some real issues with men before I was married. I've had to deal with a whole range of emotions. And now, it's like some old things,(attitudes) are resurfacing.
Well, that about ties up my time on the counceling couch this morning. Now you know me just a little bit better. I hope you don't think that I am pridefull, or, well, I don't know. I just feel like I really put myself out there today.