Wednesday, July 7, 2010

I DID IT!!

Well, I am in ketosis...it took a lot of talking to myself to get there, but I did it. I finally just said the heck with it! Only I can do this. Also, I found a place down here in KY that has the same program I was in back home...I have an appointment today and I am very excited...maybe that B12 shot will wake me up...I have been sleeping wayyyyy to much lately, but I have been soooooo tired..Anywho..

I am proud of myself..even turned down the most amazing potato salad ever today..GO ME!!


Are you excited to see what the next month holds?? I am!

Thursday, June 24, 2010

OBSTACLES

Life is full of obstacles and I do believe coming here to Kentucky has been an obstacle for me...as far as my food choices go. I have had a hard time eating what I am supposed to eat and ONLY that. There are so many new restaurants around here that I want to try...I am tired and "Do I really have to clean that electric skillett again?" sets in...That thing is annoying!!

Well, all my trying new restaurants and tiredness has caught up to me and I have gained some weight...I am not happy with it..so no happy that I am not even going to say how much....anywho...because I gained weight, and I really believe this, I have to have my gallbladder taken out. Now, let me tell you why I think it is because I gained weight....I read it on the internet. haha...No really, I was reading up on the causes of gallbladder problems and one of the reasons was losing weight quickly then gaining weight back. I am blaming the surgery of the removal of one of my organs on my weight gain, my eating, my ice cream, my cakes, my Baconator's from Wendys....my pizza...yeah, I just have a problem...I LOVE FOOD!!! Well, I am living proof, and I have an appointment with the surgeon tomorrow to verify my theory, that food can make you unhealthy. It is important to eat right and live a healthy lifestyle. Not only will you live longer, if God sees fit, but you will feel better about yourself and not only go shopping for shoes and purses. When the clothes you were fitting into stop fitting you don't want to buy anything else!

Well, I now HAVE to eat right...I really have no choice, especially if this gallbladder comes out..because after it is out you have to be very cautious of what you take in or you can cause more problems than you had before. Notice I said "if"...yes, I am hopeing after this consultation tomorrow that there will be other options besides having surgery and taking medication for the rest of my life...cause I really hate it (vitamins are enough)...I am hopeing that he says I can eat healthy and maybe cure this diseased gallbladder...Now I know nothing about medicine practices, but I am just hopeing...keeping my fingers crossed...praying for God to give me another chance. I am scared and I do believe I have put myself there...I have to change....for the better.

Pray for me, pray with me....pray I continue to have the strength I need to eat ONLY what I need...to not "think" or "feel" like I am hungry all the time...for an apple to satisfy my chocolate craving...for water to taste OH SO GOOD!! Pray for a positive word from the surgeon tomorrow...Pray that I continue to see what I see today and that I want to make a change..that I WANT to do well for me, for my dad who wants me to have a happy, healthy life....for everyone whom I may be an inspiration to...Pray with me..pray for me....Pray!

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

OH MY GOSH!!! WHY CAN'T I JUST DO IT!?!?

I am getting soooooo annoyed with myself...why can't I just stick to the diet? Why can't I eat healthy here in Kentucky?? I keep saying, "I can do this! I am ready to start again! I am going to stick with it this time!" And I can't seem to do this. This is ridiculous!

Going to a different place and being put out of your element is hard. First I had the stresses of not having anything to cook with except a microwave...well, I got an electric skillet, so that was solved. Then I was able to move into a suite, still no stove, but I felt better about where I was...felt more at home..but I have been sooooo tired. I got used to the B12 shots every week from the weigh station. I have the B12 vitamins now, but they are not seeming to work...and this is probably because my body is getting pumped with all the bad stuff that keeps wearing me down.

I have a problem with cake...I LOVE IT!! I feel like I am hungry ALL the time again and this really stinks. Going to the weigh station was so great. It is like you worked harder because you knew you someone else was going to praise you; someone you didn't know and it felt good to have that. I am trying to push myself. I am proud of me in one aspect..I can run for 30 minutes straight on the treadmill. That is a huge accomplishment for me, but then I go back to the motel and pack back on those calories I lost by eating at Dodge's (YOU WILL GET YOUR MONTLY CHOLOSTEROL LIMIT IN ONE MEAL) Chicken or having a Dairy Queen blizzard....or even grabbing a snack out of the snack machine...UGGHHHH!!! This is a nightmare! WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME??? I need that motivation I had from the beginning. I don't want to put back on the weight. And I seem so consumed in wanting to lose it but when I see the food I really love, well that consumes me more. Am I just destined to be fat?

Today was a fat day. It rained last night; okay, so all the rain in the world came down on Muldraugh, KY last night along with lightening and thunder...I said the Indians were having a pow-wow on my roof last night (It was that loud!)...so since it rained it is a little cold so I wanted to wear jeans and a cute shirt...that wasn't happening...it was a t-shirt and jeans day. Everything I put on I felt FAT in and I don't mean, oh I can see a little pudge hanging out, I MEAN FAT!!!! I felt huge. I know I am not ginormous or anything, but I still could lose a few pounds. People around here have told me, you don't need to lose...you look fine the way you are...Well, thanks homies, but I feel FAT!!!! Can I get an AMEN!!!

How do I fix this? How do I get my motivation back? Anyone know where I can find a doc to give me phentermine and B12 shots weekly in KY?? PLEASE HELP ME!!! And saying, "Oh, you can do it" is really not helping..haha..but thanks. I know I can, I have...I just need a new path to do this again.

For now, the S1 shop here at Fort Knox is heading to the Schnitzel Barn tonight so I can get even FATTER!!!!!! Oh well, I never had a schnitzel....(hmmm, is this the attitude that is putting the weight back on?)

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

It has been a while, I know

So, it has been a while since I posted, but I have been doing a few things...I made it to Fort Knox, working, seeing horse races, visiting other towns....and eating..Yes, Eating things I should not eat. I have gained 7 pounds since I have been here and I am NOT happy about it so today I have started over...I am not going to starve myself with only protein, but I am eating healthy like I never quit the diet...I have my gym bag packed for after work and I am going to march down the hall and jump on the treadmill and RUN!!! I have come too far and done so good. I have been so proud of myself until I put those shorts on yesterday...I was SOOOO mad...they were tight and they just looked nasty.

I went and got an electric skillet after worrying and worrying about how in the world I was going to eat out of a microwave for 70 some days...I have no idea why I never thought about that in the first place...it is time...I know I have said this before, but it is time...I AM GOING TO REACH MY GOAL WEIGHT! ARE YOU READY? I AM!!!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Can I ever get back on track??

I keep on messing up. I know what I need to do, I know what I need to eat, but I just keep telling myself I can't. This is HORRIBLE! I feel that I am a strong willed person most of the time, but lately, when it has came to food I have been so weak. I am about to go to Fort Knox in 5 days for the entire summer. I want to be strong out there all by my lonesome. I want to be strong now!

I have no excuse anymore. I finished up my last root canal this morning. I have no reason not to eat healthy. I did become bored with the plan I was on so I have decided that I am going to eat healthy, but some of those vegetables they said I can't have I may have once in a while. Half of the vegetables on the list I didn't like so in order to continue on with this journey I have to do what works for me.

It is time....AGAIN (I know) to get back on the pony. I really, really, REALLY want to reach my goal weight...I need some motivation. Do you have any for me??

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Why do I do this??

It has been a while since I have written and maybe it has a little to do with the fact that I have NOT been dieting and that is a little embarassing for me. The past few weeks I have been to Greensboro, to Greensboro again, to DC, then had to undergo 2 root canals in which the first one didn't go over to well with my mouth. These may just be excuses, okay so they are, but I have fallen off the wagon. While traveling it is hard to eat healthy when fast food is within an arms reach everywhere you go and when you are on the move constantly it is hard to sit down and search for a place that will serve me protein and veggies.

I told myself after each trip that I was going to get back in the game, but I never did. I let chocolate and honeybuns talk to me a little more than I should have. Everyday I said, "Okay, I will start back tomorrow." Tomorrow hasn't came yet. I haven't been to the gym much, which is very important in this diet, well in any diet. I feel horrible and stupid and even though I have checked the scale I look in the mirror and see all that weight I have lost so far back on me. That is kind of, in a wierd way, a good thing. I know where I was and I know that I was not happy in that body. I know how happy I have been since I started the diet and how it felt to look in the mirror and see myself shrink...and to put on a pair of pants and laugh because of the fact that I had to hold them up all day. I know in order to stay happyn with myself I have to jump back on. Only I can make this happen. I control what goes in my body, not anyone else. It is important to me to be healthy, to lose weight....to be a role model for others. It is very important.

So.....

I went to the grocery store today. I picked out my protein and I have decided that if I want to make this happen I have to do something about it. I have gone (since the beginning, last year) from 185 to 155 and I am not to my goal weight. My goal for myself is 135 and the doc says 120. I want to get to 135 and see how I feel with myself then. If I feel I am not done then I will keep going, but I have to keep going. I can't let the sweets or any other temptation or travel arrangement get in my way. In 12 days I will be heading to Fort Knox, KY for my job and this is another excuse I have used for myself. I will be living in a hotel for 70some days. I have thought and thought...how in the world am I going to eat healthy out of a hotel with just a microwave to cook with??...I know I can. My brother and sister-n-law gave me a crockpot so I know I can cook healthy with that. I know there is a gym there...it is an army base for crying out loud...so I can still exercise. I have no excuses...I can and WILL continue on this journey to get where I want to be, to become happy with myself and my body. I can't wait to come back after my summer in Kentucky and see everyone's faces when I am in my lean body, wearing a size 7 or maybe smaller...

I am so excited to be who I have always wanted to be...without changing who I am on the inside.

So, tomorrow...that day will come tomorrow.

Monday, April 26, 2010

God Is GOOD!



This weekend was the best weekend a girl could ask for.

For a long time now I feel like I haven't taken time out for myself. I am always doing something and it always involves other people lives. I dogsit, babysit, clean, go here, go there, work...but each day is routine for me; never anything new. Don't get me wrong, I love helping people and I love my job, but I needed a vacation. I finally got one (at least that is what I called it).

My family and I got together this weekend to do something great. We walked 3.5 miles for the March of Dimes March for Babies walk in Greensboro, NC for my niece Tessa Nicole and all the other premies out there who need assistance.

Friday afternoon Michelle and I got on the road. The first address in the garmen was Four Seasons Mall in Greensboro, NC. We had a slight tough time getting there with the criss cross directions and the geese flying into my car and the huge piece of something in the road that I ran over which then shoved itself into the bumper of the person behind me...but we got there. We explored the mall mainly focusing on the stores we did not have at home and it was great. Lots of sales, good buys including the blizzards from Dairy Queen in the food court (Yeah, no diet this past weekend). After a great time shopping we punched in my brother's address and headed on over. We pulled up to his beautiful house and see Ashley peeking out from inside my sister-in-laws mustang...her and another little boy were playing hide and seek. We were welcomed with hugs and introductions to the people we did not know. That evening we had a cook out to include hamburgers, hot dogs, sweet potato fries, salad, corn, chips...ummm...I think that was all. Everyone mingled and had a great time. That night the ladies sat up till 1am making the Team Tessa t-shirts for the next days walk. We had a blast.

Saturday morning came and everyone was ready to go. We got up, ate breakfast and ventured out. The day was beautiful. God really blessed us with wonderful weather, wonderful company, and smiles all over. I was proud to turn in my $284 dollars I raised and receive my March of Dimes t-shirt (seperate from the ones we made). Our team won the t-shirt contest, my brother and sister-in-law spoke on stage and made everyone cry and then it was time to start. My brother and sister-in-law had smiles on their faces that could have stretched a mile when they looked back and saw everyone participating for something so great and meaningful to them. It was really wonderful. We all completed the walk and had a great time with the music and food and events going on at the park.

That evening, after everyone finished lounging around, we all headed out to a Japanease Steak house..this was a first for me and it was so MUCH FUN!! Sunday morning came too quick and we all had breakfast then had to pack up and head home.

God is sooooo Good. This weekend was amazing. I may not have went sight seeing or splashed around in a water park, but being with the people I love and doing something so great was more than a vacation to me. God Blessed us all this weekend. I really couldn't ask for anything more.

Now, I did weigh in Thursday before leaving and lost 1.4 lbs in the previous 2 weeks. I was a little upset but I know I have been toning muscle so I just let it slide...I am sure I gained that 1.4 back over the weekend...here is why-

Friday afternoon:
Wendy's Single with fries and a diet coke.
King Size Snickers with almonds and a cake

Friday Dinner:
Hamburger, sweet potato fries, salad, corn, chips, and 3 chocolate chip cookies

Saturday Morning:
Honey Nut Cheerios and a muffin, coffee with cream and sugar
Then we got to the park to smell FREE doughnuts, so I halfed one with my niece

Saturday Afternoon:
1 piece of pizza and a bag of trail mix (small bag)

During the day:
Hamburger

Saturday Night:
WOW! Everything from Kabuto
Soup, salad, shrimp, veggies, rice, more shrimp, chicken, fried banannas...I really have no idea how many diet cokes (I kept using the WONDERFUL hot sauce)

Sunday morning:
Eggs, bacon, 2 biscuits with jelly, cereal with almonds, coffee with cream and sugar, a muffin.

Sunday afternoon:
We stopped at a store on the way back to eat our leftover Japanease and also picked up a king size snickers with almonds, a honey bun, and a pack of starburst...diet coke....on down the road Dairy Queen sparked in our heads...I got a blue rasberry slush.

Sunday evening:
Nancy packed us some barbque she had made, put that on a bun and ate it...pretzal m and m's, then my brother convinced me to order a strawberry bananna milkshake..

Needless to say at about 2 this morning I felt like I was going to vomit. I ate enough this weekend to feed an army...When I cheated, boy I really cheated. Today I am eating nothing but PROTEIN. I feel like I gained 10 lbs, but I can't step on the scale. I know what I have to do. Me and the gym are going to become even closer this week and back to the diet it is...until I lose this weight....hopefully.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Time is WAY past due!!

So many exciting things are happening in the next few days..To start, TODAY IS WEIGH IN DAY!!!!! I am so SUPER excited to see how well, or maybe not so well I have done. I am pretty sure there is going to be a loss no matter what; I'm just not sure how much. No matter what I know in the past 2 weeks I have worked my butt off in the gym and I have done pretty good eating wise and when I did have the Olive Garden I knew what I had to do and I did it. I am thinking that if the weight loss is not so much then I have probably developed some muscle...You should see my guns!!!! haha!

After weighing in I have a busy evening; I just hope I can get it all in. I may get my nails done..I REALLY want to hit the gym again...I need to pack...I need to tan...I need to cook...I need to shower...I need to get gas in my car (Okay, so that takes like a second, but I still have to do it.)...I need to straighten up my apartment..double check my packing to make sure I haven't forgotten anything...clean up the dishes..then I may get some sleep..I think that is all I need to do...BEFORE GETTING UP AND HEADING TO GREENSBORO, NC!!! I am SOOOOOO excited. Michelle and I are going to head out in the a.m. and hit up Four Season's Mall to start off. Who knows what the evening entails. Saturday is the March for Dimes March for Babies walk and I am super excited about this as well. I am proud of myself. I counted up this morning and I have raised close to $250 for this cause. It is going to be great to be with friends and family walking for something that can help people. This year we are walking for my neice, as some of you may know, who was born at 24 weeks weighing 1lb, 9oz(I think that is the oz) and only survived 117 days. She touched so many people lives during her time before going to be with the Lord. She made a difference. Since then my brother and his wife have done so many things within their community to help where they could. They have been chosen as the Ambassador Family so them and the rest of our family and friends are leading the walk Saturday. This is such an honor and a blessing. There is still time to donate if you would like...Just ask me how.

After the walk I am sure my brother has something planned to do...he alwasy does I have heard. I am just excited to get away, to do something good, and to spend time with the people I love. I am really blessed!!!

PS...when I get the weigh results (if I find time) I will update. God Bless!!!

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Not a lot to say...

I don't really have a lot to say today except that I am happy, which is a good thing. I appreciate everything God has given me and even though sometimes life doesn't make sense I know God is just doing His work. I am so proud of my friend Michelle who lost 6.2lbs this week..WAY TO GOO!!! I am so super excited about my weigh in on Thursday. I have a feeling it will be another good one...then Friday morning, me, my brother, and Michelle are off to Greensboro...This will be kind of like a mini-vacation that God knows I need. The March for Babies walk is Saturday. So much to look forward to this week and I am soooo blessed to be me (my head is not swollen, I am just thankful of what God has done for me).

God Bless everyone!!!

P.S. My pants are still falling down...this is getting annoying..but I am happy I am dropping the lbs!!!!

Monday, April 19, 2010

I have been slacking...


I have been slacking, not on exercising, but on posting. Well, also maybe a little on the eating..just Friday. We had a going away lunch at my favorite restaurant, Olive Garden for one of my fav's, CPT Rockshead (that is me and him in the pic above...he will be missed), and I ate what I wanted. I still went to the gym and did lots of arm and core exercises (was sore the next day) and I did have ice cream with oreo's in it that night...Yummm!! I knew the next day was going to be a protein day and I was fine with that. I just kept myself busy so I didn't even think about the fruits and veggies. I went to the gym AGAIN and worked on legs, core, and did cardio (sore again). Yesterday I was still not in ketosis, but I know I had been doing everything right so I ate only protein until about 4pm when I had an apple (after the gym AGAIN). And I still was not in ketosis today, but I know I am eating right and exercising my butt off so I am going to continue with my normal fruits and veggies and just ask about it at my weigh in on Thursday. I can tell I am getting smaller...my pants don't want to stay up and that definition in my stomach is starting to show through (WOOOHOOOOO!!!!) I am going to keep up the good work and stay on this thing like white on rice!

People are noticing my weight loss, even trainers in the gym...they mention it and show me things to help out with what I want to work on most...it is great! This whole diet/exercise thing has been a great inspiration to me because now I want to learn how to become a physical trainer...once I get to where I need to be that is. I love the transformation in myself and to be able to tell people how to work a certain muscle or maybe what they are doing wrong...to be able to "fix" things is wonderful! I am actually going to help my lil sis today. We are going to go for a brisk walk and along the way I plan on talking to her about her eating habits and try to help her out..

There is a part of me that is a little scared...I was just tasked to go to Fort Knox this summer from 23 May to 8 August. I know I am going to continue to exercise and eat right (with what I can from a hotel microwave), but it is just going to be me encouraging me out there. I know I can do it, but without the docs and the medicine they have been giving me I am worried what will happen...I refuse to gain my weight back, but is it going to be harder?? We will soon see....Well, I feel like I am rambling so I think I am done...Until next time I am going to be like the energizer bunny!!!!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

The Creep is holding me back..

So, I go to the gym to do my "thang", but I can't do every"thang" I want because there is this old man creep that CREEPS me out! He is handicapped due to a motorcycle accident (I heard all about) and he like to talk to me. I was on the treadmill and he asked me out to dinner (he's married), told me how sexy I was, how he loved natural red heads, invited me to a wine party, told me how sexy I was (with moans and groans), wanted to buy me lotion (GROSS)...and so on and so forth...
Now when I go to the gym I try to avoid him. I know this is horrible, but because of his handicap he can't move very fast so I scurry away from him when I see him. The last couple of days I have been going in the rooms he is not in so I can get my workout in, well, I NEED THE WEIGHT ROOM and he will not get out of there! I am trying to avoid being rude to him and possibly causing a scene (because that would be embarassing), but I NEED TO DO SQUATS, AND ARM WEIGHTS, AND ALL THE OTHER THINGS I DO IN THERE! In the meantime I have been doing my cardio, which has been interrupted due to the magazine falling off on the tread part as I was running...I just got off at that point. And I have been doing ab and inner thigh exercises in the assisted weight room. Yesterday I did this new thing I have been seeing everyone do..I wanted to see what it was. You hold a weight (I did 10lbs) in one hand and lean to that same side multiple times...OUCH!!! This is definitely good for you...it will get rid of your love handles and it helps your abs, but boy am I sore from that. When you are doing it you think, "This can't be doing anything." IT DOES! Believe me!!

So the creep has held me back, the magazine pushed me off...Literally..and I haven't been feeling it as much this week. I don't feel as energized as I have been, but I have pushed myself to go to the gym in the evenings and it feels good once I am done. I just wish that creep would choose another time!

I am hanging in there. My motivation still exists; I just have to pull it out a little more...maybe I can crop myself into a bikini babe and work on ACTUALLY getting there...hmmm. It's an idea. I weigh in next week and I EXPECT good results from myself. It is all up to me, what I do, and how I handle my day to day activities and intake. I'M READY TO WAKE UP!!!!!!!!

Monday, April 12, 2010



Challenges

Sometimes in life you are faced with challenges. These challenges, some just complain about, and other decide to figure out a way to overcome them. Me, I overcome them. As you may have read in previous blog post, I don't like a complainer.

This weekend many challenges came my way. My friend and I Walked for a Cure at Greenhill Park in Salem, VA. This was an amazing opportunity for me. I was able to walk for my step-mom who is a little over a 5 year survivor. While waiting for our walk to start we watched the runners. There were so many people out there running for a cure for breast cancer. One that stood out the most was a current breast cancer lady. She went running by in her pink shirt and her bald head with a smile on her face. Everyone cheered her on and clapped as she sprinted by. To her and all other women out there, breast cancer is a challenge. I can only imagine how tough it is to overcome, but she was out there RUNNING! She did not let this stop her.

Michelle, Connie, and I faced a smaller challenge, but to us it was a challenge. We picked up the pace a little during our walk and ran ourselves. Connie would set goal markers for us to run to. With someone there to push you along the way, it really helps. I am getting to the point where I want to tackle another challenge. I want to help people, I want to push people...I want to get to the point where I can be that inspiration pushing someone to the next mile marker. For this challenge I am going to continue to push myself and workout harder to get where I want to be in order to help others. When I put my clothes on they fit better...and one outfit I put on over the weekend really surprised me when I saw the picture...I feel like I am doing a great job!! We had a great time at this walk and I look forward for many more to come.

Another challenge I faced over the weekend was a challenge with God and myself. God, I believe, puts us in situations to make us realize that we have strayed from our faith. I have an issue that I deal with daily, and my friends know about this, and sometimes I let it get me down. Well, I did something about it last weekend and I thought I was happy. I prayed to God to let me see the light, please give me the truth...well, God answered. This weekend I realized that this was not right for me. Although it upset me I had to realize that God answered my prayers. He had seen that by being in the situation I was in that I was letting my faith out. God knows best and I thank Him so much for giving me the answer.

Because of my stress and the things I want to accomplish I went to the gym yesterday (worked HARD), cleaned my house, cleaned my car, and fixed my dinner for last night and my lunch for today...oh, and showered twice...It was a very productive day, and I have been a little under the weather, but overall I feel FANTASTIC!! God is Goood...Oh so good!!

Friday, April 9, 2010

WEIGH IN---IT'S GOOD!!!!

So, I had my weigh in yesterday and it went well!! Below I am going to post total inches and weight loss to day...in 41 days!!! Yesterday I had a weight loss (in 2 weeks) of 5 lbs!!!! I was sooooooo happy!!

Inches:
Started in Neck: 12.75
Today's neck: 12.25 (.5 inch loss)

Started in Chest: 41.5
Today's Chest: 37.5 (4 inch loss)

Started in Arms: 14
Today's Arms: 12.75 (1.25 inch loss)

Started in Abdomen: 37
Today's Abdomen: 34 (3 inch loss)

Started in Hips: 45
Today's Hips: 41 (4 inch loss)

Started in Thighs: 24
Today's Thighs: 22 (2 inch loss)

Starting Weight: 172.6
Today's Weight: 157 (15.6 LB LOSS!!!)

My BMI was initally 34.3 which puts me in the obese range for my age and height. I know this BMI range seems a little off, but for now I am going by it and getting myself healthy. My BMI is now 31.3, which still makes me obese, but not as much...I am doing good and I can't wait to see my progress in 2 weeks. God is good!!!

Happy Friday!!!

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Boy am I SORE!!

My body has gotten a beating the past 2 days and I am ready for it again today....This is not the kind of sore you would have if you fell down a flight of stairs, but the kind of sore that lets you know you are working it!! I have started doing exercises that are going to tone up my body...The last two day I introduced squats and WOWZERS I can tell they are working!! In my entire body I can see a difference. My legs are not as jiggly, my arms have definition, my love handles are GONE!!! and my stomach is firming up. This is SOOOOOO great!! I am addicted now. I love the gym and what it does for me. The machines are like that new person you once thought was stuck up and annoying...I finally got to know them and they have turned into my best friend. I am not backing down from this; like I said before, I AM IN IT TO WIN IT!!

I want to go to the beach with my good friend Shell this summer and to a theme park with a water park. I want to be able to put my bathing suit on and not worry if my legs are going to rub together, or if my stomach is sticking out too much because we all know there is NO bathing suit that is NOT form fitting. I am going to be ready for this. I have never been so sure in my life, but just like other things in my life I see the light at the end of the tunnel.

I have a 2 week weigh in and measurement session tomorrow...I am excited to see what I have done with myself. I know I may not have lost as much because I am toning my muscles as well as everything else (the doc suggested I wait, but I wanted to kill two birds with one stone as they say).

Stay posted....more good news to come!!

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Back on that train...


What a beautiful day! AGAIN!! Just like the weather has been, so am I...CONSTANT! I am back on that train to weight loss success. All protein it was yesterday and today I am back to my fruits and veggies...YAYYY!!! I also went to the gym yesterday to make up for that time lost over the weekend and WOW, did I sweat!!! Someone told me to try a 7% incline on the treadmill 3.0 to tone up my legs and thighs; well, I did. I could only take that for 10 minutes. My brow was sweating and my legs were feeling the burn!! I then lowered the incline, slowed down for a minute or two then I PUMPED UP THE VOLUME ON MY RADIO AND TOOK OFF FOR A RUN!! It feel so good to exercise and I never thought I would say that..I love going to the gym. I get in my element and I know after the pain comes the pleasure and I LOVE IT! My body is getting tone and I am slimming down..

On another note...Pam, my office mate, brought some beautiful flowers into the office that she picked out of her front yard so a picture is attached. Maybe they will brighten your day like they did mine...They are SOOOO Pretty!!!

Have a great day!! Enjoy those high temps out there. God Bless!!

Monday, April 5, 2010

Great, Beautiful, Blessed, and Happy...I think



It was a beautiful blessed weekend. It all started Friday when LTC Hansen released all of us HRA's to go home early and enjoy the sunshine. I had to head over to the weigh station to get an extra week of phentermine since I am only going every two weeks now. When you go every week they give you a shot. They said I could buy the shot for $10 and take it with me, which means I had to give myself the shot. I was a little scared about doing that and also taking a needle with me. I decided to go in the bathroom and just do it...AND I DID! I GAVE MYSELF A SHOT RIGHT IN THE LEG!...then, I gave the needle back to the nurses to discard properly. I then headed to the Downs residence to dog and cat sit. I finished up the dog and cat sitting on Saturday afternoon and headed to Roanoke to hang with my friend, Michelle.

We enjoyed some sunshine and planned our night. It started with, okay, so let's just eat a burger...so O'Charley's it was! After the burger and fries we had a wonderful brownie with ice cream and caramel!! IT WAS SCRUPTIOUS!!! We knew we would have to start over, but that is why we are strong women...we knew we could do it...We then had a night of fun. I was in a funk of some sort and could not figure out why...I have stuff on my mind it feels like, but I don't know what it is, but that did not ruin things...I ran into someone special; a great friend and because of that, well, I have not started over until today...because that certain special someone took me out for lunch yesterday we we just enjoyed it together. We hadn't been out in a while. We also had a good day just being together...walking across the Martin Luther King Jr. bridge in Roanoke, snapping pictures, laughing, and just hanging out...being us. I am still not sure what is going to come of this, but I know we are and always have been great friends...He has always made me smile. We have had our ups and downs, but for some reason we keep bumping into one another....What does God have in store for me?? I will just have to wait and see...

I am ready for another week of work, exercising (I feel like I have betrayed the tread mill the past 3 days), and eating healthy....I weigh in Thursday...so excited to see this!

P.S. The pics are from the weekend..

Thursday, April 1, 2010

APRIL FOOL'S DAY



It is April Fool's Day and just like my daddy, I can't go by without pranking someone...well, more than one...saran wrapped things, filled offices with baloons, cotton balls, easter basket grass, and even cat food that looked like poo....It was all so funny and thankfully everyone has a sense of humor...Other than it being a day to prank people it is also a BEAUTIFUL day!! It is so nice outside, just makes you want to smile. Today I am not going to my weigh-in..I am starting to go every 2 weeks, but I did weigh myself on the work scale and I am....DRUM ROLL PLEASE...

158LBS!!!!!!! I have been wanting to break into the 150's and I did it..now, it is time to look at the 140's...To reach MY goal weight (not the weigh stations) I only have 23 more pounds to go...wooohoooo!!! This is so exciting..I have been exercising my hiney off, eating right, and just smileing a lot more...Life is GRAND!!!

I have added a picture of me that was just taken a few minutes ago outside in the lovely sunshine (hence my squinty eyes..haha). I decided to wear my springy/summer dress today. I got into wearing dresses last summer when I started to feel comfortable in my body by loseing weight...now I LOVE THEM!!!

I guess I will finish up with work, do my gym thing, or maybe even walk or run outside (depending on my allergies)....It is such a beautiful day...a day the Lord has made and I WILL REJOYCE AND BE GLAD IN IT!!!!!

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

I MADE IT HAPPEN!!

So, I was in ketosis this morning!! WOOOHOOOO!!! I am able to eat fruits and veggies again today....there is nothing like fruit let me tell you! And today, my clothes are even looser! Also, I feel I hit an accomplishment. I have felt for the longest time that I need a shirt under my regular shirt to cover the "rolls" if you will. Today, I just wore my regular shirt and for the first time in a long time I feel comfortable...now, if I have a metal button or latch I will have to wear a shirt (nikel allergy)but knowing I don't have to feels great!!!

Yesterday was hard eating nothing but protein, but I kept myself busy with work, the gym :-), and by the time I got home and fixed my turkey burger there wasn't much time left in the day before bed so it all worked out.

I feel so great, healthy, skinnier (not skinny yet), my face looks smaller, my clothes fit better...I smile more and I don't have to cover my "roll" as much as I used to.

Yay for a gallon of water a day! Yay for Lean protein! Yay for low carb, low starch veggies and fruit!! Yay for me!!!

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

I'M NOT IN KETOSIS


For those of you who do not know what ketosis is...let me explain.
"Ketones are produced by the liver from fatty acids, which result from the breakdown of body fat in response to the absense of glucose/sugar." (Taken from my book given to me by the weigh station.) The diet I am on requires you to be in ketosis. For the first two days of this diet I ate nothing but lean and very lean protein...that's right-No Veggies, No Fruit...nothing but protein. By eating nothing but protein and not having any carbs or sugar in your diet your body goes into "ketosis" state. At that point you can add some fruits and veggies to your diet. (We find out if we are in ketosis or not by peeing on ketostix every morning)

I checked yesterday morning...not in ketosis.

I checked this morning...not in ketosis.

The doctors have told me that you can sometimes go out of ketosis and be fine and that some people never go into ketosis but are still losing fat and inches so they assume the diet is working. I just feel more comfortable about what I am doing, since this isn't easy anyway, knowing I am in ketosis. For that reason, today is a protein only day. For breakfast I had a hard boiled egg (Very Lean protein), a piece of turkey sausage (lean protein because it is processed) and water. For lunch I am having 2 oz tuna (very lean), and 1/2 cup cottage cheese (very lean). This may sound gross to some, but to me I am okay. I don't have a problem with it; I just want to know I am losing although I have done nothing wrong.

Something good did happen this morning that made me smile. Well, my pants have been rather tight the past few weeks, loosining up as time goes, but I had this one pair that I had gotten from New York and Company that I loved. When I got them they were a bit tight, then I ate more and they got even tighter, to where I would not even wear them. This morning I decided to put them on and wouldn't you know that before long I won't even be able to wear them cause they are LOOSE!! I was able to look nice and springy today with my shirt that Michelle gave me here while back that I wore once when we went out (hadn't been able to wear it because it has been tight, today it is LOOSE!) and my NYC jeans with my little while see through shoes and of course, my tan. I feel better than ever, but I am not done yet. I am starting to worry though about my clothes...if everything starts getting to big what am I going to do?? I can't go buy a closet full of new clothes....EEK! (but I'm not complaining)

If you know anyone or if you have any springy summer clothes that you may want to give away I will gladly accept...At the start of this diet I was uncomfortable in my XL shirts and now I am into mediums feeling great. My pants were up to 14-16 and a little snug...I am not sure what size, but I do have a pair of 11's I wore over the weekend...I am so excited to see how much more weight I am going to drop...I'm loving it!!!

One more thing....I AM GETTING A MUSCLE IN MY ARMS!!!!

Monday, March 29, 2010

Blah Blah Blah

Today I feel a little blah, but that happens every once in a while...I know it will pass. I am still awake and wanting to go to the gym and all...just a little blah. I don't really have anything to talk about...I am still dieting...eating between typing this up...Chicken, broccoli and califlower...yumm!! Lots of water as usual...but I just feel blah....Later.

Sunday, March 28, 2010

The Weekend

It was a beautiful weekend although it was a little cold. I was able to see my friend Christi and her two wonderful daughters. It had been since October since I had seen them so time was way overdue. The day started at a church in Roanoke watching the girls decorate cookies, make crafts, hear the story of Jesus, and hunt easter eggs. They had so much fun and it was great watching them smile. Lexi rode with me afterwards from place to place so we were able to catch up on missed times. She has gotten so big, but still so beautiful. She made me an easter bunny ornament, which was very special to me...that she thought of me; they really make me smile. Ayanna was shy at first, but warmed up after a while even to hold my hand while walking through the mall. I was able to shop around with Christi while the girls played at the play place in the mall. Being able to catch up and talk was wonderful. We used to spend so much more time together, but it is harder when you live a distance away. We will definately have to get together more.

I was able to eat lunch with them and we went to Country Cooking. It was hard to pass up the wonderful cornbread rolls and dessert, but I did it. Lexi had made me a cookie, but Christi let her know I couldn't eat it...it was thought that counted.

After spending time with them I met up with Michelle to get pedicures and our nails done. We were able to talk as well...just about life and it was good. We went to another restaurant where it is hard to pass up the good food and desserts, K and W, but we did it..Times haven't been easy lately with certain things that have gone on in both of our lives, but we talk and we don't let food, for the first time, get in our way.

I came home early this morning and have just relaxed today. It has been nice...took a nap, grocery store, a good hot shower, and a healthy dinner. I am ready to take on the week and look toward the future...I no longer dwell on the past; it's not worth it. You can't do anything for things that have happened in the past, but learn from your mistakes. God brings us through many things and we have to be happy for what He has done for us and I am. I am focused, and not worried about what tomorrow holds, yet excited for what He has in store for me.

Matthew 6:33-34
33. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
34. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

Friday, March 26, 2010

ONE POUNDER

Okay, really...are you serious?!?! I worked so hard this past week by going to the gym, scarfing down that last bite of broccoli that I just can't seem to stand anymore...passing up that cheesecake at TGI Friday's....and all I lost was ONE POUND!!! Maybe that buger from last week snuck up on me after all, that burger that was probably more than that one pound I lost. And let's talk about inches....I saw that I was only down a pound so I thought, well, I must have shrunk a little...Nope...only in the BOOBS! I shrunk half an inch in the boobs but that was it...everything else stayed the same. THEN I WAS ANGRY!!! Like a raging bull on a Saturday Night Fight...I HAD to talk to the doctor...

Well, I got fussed at. I know doc this isn't going to happen overnight but from the "crying, I have to eat a hamburger" state I was in last week to yesterday, I felt I did pretty good this week. I went from wanting everything in front of me to wanting hardly nothing at all, but instead making myself eat...WHAT THE WORLD...I was reassured that sometimes this happens and next week I may drop 5lbs...it just varies, but OH was I wanting so bad to get down to the 150 range...it will happen (as long as I don't need a hamburger, and I DON'T). Also, I was told not to run, not to do weights and I was like WHAT?? I have been training myself, see, to run because in September I want to run a half marathon and now I CAN'T EVEN TRAIN! I have went from not being able to run a minute on the treadmill to running 15 minutes at a time...I have been sweating and it has felt so good!! I was upset that feeling that I did so good by eating right, running...to find out I haven't done so good..But I still feel that I did.

Well, (I say that a lot) I went to the gym after my weigh in and I set my incline to 1% (doc told me to) and set my speed at 3.5 (doc told me to) and I was walking, walking...feeling like I was doing nothing and my poor little finger just somehow raised itself up to the speed button and made it go up to 4.5....I don't know what happened?? That run did feel good though..very good!! (I am proud of you little finger)

Another day on the scale, that old dreaded thing, at least it was today.
I work so hard to please you so PLEASE TAKE MY WEIGHT AWAY!
Doc says "Do this", "Do that" and I do all that I can
But when that scale does not go down I blame it on YOUR plan..
Although your plan has put me down 10.6 in 27 days,
Okay, I take that back doc, at least your making me healthy, anyway.
I feel so full of energy, so full of life.
I'm not sleeping after I eating and my body is now taking a beating..
WE'RE BEATING IT DOWN, MAKING IT SMALLER!!
"DROP AND GIVE ME 50!" Okay, not yet...but you said once I reach my goal you will teach me how to get fit.
I am on my way doc and I'm not stopping until "The Skinny Lady" sings.
It's time for walking, eating protein, and going by the rules so MOVE OVER fat blobs on my body cause I'm working my way to FINALLY BEING COOL!

Okay...so ARE YOU PUMPED AS I AM??? Skinny is the new me!

Thursday, March 25, 2010

The Food Deal


Okay, so yesterday was a great day, besides my food incidents and you know, this really doesn't help on a diet...

The day started fine and I was so excited for my haircut...Well, I had lunch and decided to eat my fruit a little late...Later, I took a bite of my apple to find a hole, no worm...I cut through the apple and found more holes and no worm...I think I ate him...GROSS!! I threw that apple away...Well, I got my haircut (as seen in the pictures), got a sticker on my car thanks to my brother and then my brother and I decided to go eat. We chose Fridays. I was excited because they had a meal I could eat...Shrimp, chicken, onions and peppers with cheese, and broccoli. I was almost finished with my meal then I pulled out a STICKER with my fork...The waitress walked by so I showed it to her. We got my meal for free, a free appitizer card and an offer for dessert, which I wanted so bad, but could not have. It was just an odd day for me and food, but I still haven't stopped this diet because of one worm (hey, it's protein) and a sticker (Made me feel special). Besides, today is weigh in day and this is just another story to tell. These are the things that make life interesting. I do have a doctor's appointment before my weigh in, but I am determined not to look at the scale because as much as I want to know, I don't want to know until my actual weigh in.

Stay posted....

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

It is time for some new panties...

Yes, you read the title correctly...It is time for some new panties. I have discovered this the past couple of days while being at the gym and constantly having to pull up my underpants as I am trying to do my run thing on the treadmill (and yesterday eliptical)...I guess this is the bad, but good part about losing weight; you have to spend money once you grow out of the clothes that don't fit you...I guess I could put a belt around them for now, but that might be a little strang..haha.

I have been proud of myself, as I have stated before, but there is nothing like looking in the mirror everyday seeing yourself shrink...it is kind of crazy, but so great. Things just get more exciting as they go along. I don't have any complaints and I hate when people complain all the time...I used to be that person, but I have done something about it....can I inspire everyone NOT TO COMPLAIN..wait, I'm complaining, but complaining about other people complaining doesn't really count as complaining...does it? Anywho, I am so excited about my haircut I am getting today from my wonderful hair-do, and now most inspirational, hero! She has asked me to grow this mop out and it is to the point! Tomorrow, I have a weigh in and I am so excited because I know I have done well this week with my eating and my exercising...It is going to be good. Then, this weekend...finally time for me. I am getting out of town..well, not too far, just out of Radford...getting my nails did, my toes did...and hey, I guess I can buy those new panties!

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

A Cold Day

The leftover chili is perfect for this cold day; you know, one of those days when you just want to snuggle up in a blanket and sleep....low on energy; a day like this would stop most, but not me.

Yesterday I was full of SO much energy. I felt like a ball bouncing all over the place and I just didn't want to stop. I got a week's worth of work done at work and was just happy to be here. I went to the gym and WORKED OUT! I did my running on the treadmill, which I am always proud of and broke a nice sweat. After I returned home (around 8) I wasn't hungry at all, but I knew I had to eat, so I did. After that I feel like someone poked a pin in me and made me flat...I was suddenly exausted! Needless to say I got a good night's sleep.

Now, if only I could take some of that energy from yesterday and use it today. The weather will not stop me though. After work, I am going to do my usual and go to the gym. I know I will feel better when I am done, besides only a couple more weeks till that walk for Breast Cancer. I want to make sure I am fit. I am starting to see some toning going on with my body and that makes me feel good. Other people are starting to notice my weight loss....I get "Wow! You are losing weight! How much have you lost?" I weigh in Thursday and this will be the 27th day on the diet. I am hopeing to move into the 150's range, but not getting my hopes up too much; that would mean 4 lbs in one week (I did 5 not too long ago). Whatever the outcome is I know I have worked hard and I know I am going to keep going for me, for my family, my friends, and for my dad who I know would be proud of me.

Life is pretty nice even on "chili" days (excuse the pun). God Bless!

Monday, March 22, 2010

From the Cookbook!!

Last night I stayed up later than usual to fix a healthy meal from a cookbook. My experiences with cooking have been just that, experiences. While growing up I never was really in the kitchen unless I was washing dishes or making my dad a birthday cake (from a box); my dad did all the cooking, I did the cleaning...that is how we worked it. When I started living on my own I soon became to realize that maybe that wasn't such a great idea, but there is nothing I can do about it but learn on my own.

Being on a diet, I soon become bored with my food choices so I have to "spice" things up a little from time to time. I got this cookbook from the Weigh Station of recipies that I can make and eat. Well, last night I decided to try my hand at some Texas Chili...I completed the task!!! Today I am enjoying my first, and very filling, bowl for lunch. I have decided that I am going to add some peppers to it when I get home today and let it simmer on the stove for a while...it could use a little more spice. I also made some dip for my fruit last night. CPT R tried it today and I got a thumbs up...WHEW!!

Usually when I look at a recipe in a cookbook I get overwhelmed and discouraged and then I just don't make anything except the same ol' same ol', but now I am changing that. I watched that show on tv about the unhealthiest place in America and some of the things on that show were startling. It is hard to believe what America has fallen into and can't seem to get themselves out of. Step by step we can make a difference. By changing my eating habits and sharing my journey to a healthy lifestyle with others I can be an inspiration and that in itself makes me feel good.

I'm still going stong (without a hamburger).. :-)

Saturday, March 20, 2010

A Beautiful Day!!

The past couple of days have been beautiful! Such a nice start to Spring. I did go to the gym, but haven't made my way outside to do the exercising...my nose has been itching...other than that...

Last night I overcame something. I picked up the girl I am babysitting from school yesterday afternoon. Since Thursday night I have been wondering "What am I going to do about eating this weekend while I am babysitting?" Well, I packed up a few things and said I was going to continue to eat what I am supposed to eat. Last night, the girl wanted to order pizza and chicken tenders. Pizza is a weakness for me..MAJOR weakness! I decided to go ahead and fix my food while she was waiting on her pizza to be delivered so I would not be tempted. By the time I finished eating the pizza showed up smelling SOOOOOO GOOOOODDDDD!!! I wanted a piece so bad and I ALMOST caved in, but instead I grabbed my apple and kept my eye on the tv and my nose toward the apple (the smell) and I said NO to the pizza. When I woke up this morning I thought about what I had done and I was so proud of myself, still am. Today I ate a healthy breakfast, went to the gym, ate a healthy lunch and dinner and even treated myself to the apple chips at Lucie Monroe's....they are sooooo goooodddd!!

Now I am ready to settle down for the night and wake up in the morning and be proud again...Go me! I can do this!! And I will!!

God Bless everyone!!

Friday, March 19, 2010

Day 20


Well, yesterday was day 20 of my diet and I had a weigh in....I also had a little talk with one of the nurses, Judy. I had sent an e-mail to the Weigh Station about my struggles with the diet and they wanted to talk to me. I got fed an apple chip, which was OUTSTANDING!, was able to talk and get things off my chest about the diet, and find out how much I lost...drumroll please....2 POUNDS even though I had a hamburger, french fries, diet coke, and hershey pie!! Go me! I was a little worried, but I wasn't going to fret if I hadn't lost anything knowing it would have been my fault. To date I have lost a total of 9.6lbs in 20 days...pretty impressive. I am going to keep keeping on. I am happy with my progress and I see a difference in my skin and how my clothes fit. I am still eating good and getting full and I know there are other options out there for me that I just haven't found yet...in the meantime, I think I may stop by Lucie Monroe's coffee shop to pick up a bag of those wonderful apple chips made by Nurse Judy!!

Have a blessed day everyone and eat healthy!!

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Sometimes you just need a hamburger...

So, I wasn't sure if I wanted to do the blog thing or not, then I thought...what the hay!

So, for the past three weeks I have been on this diet. I never really knew how obsessive I was with my weight until I wanted a hamburger...okay, until I got sick (just a stomach bug). This diet is not the easiest in the world. With other diets there is room for cheating. On this one if you cheat you have to start all over...Well, I started over. I had been sick for a few days and when you are sick sometimes you need things and those things to me are food. I couldn't take it anymore!! I was tired of eating lean meat and veggies all the time and drinking nothing but water, a GALLON OF WATER A DAY!! IT WAS MAKING ME ANGRY!! So....

Well, sometimes you just need a hamburger...from Wendy's...and french fries, and a diet coke...and a stop at Burger King for the Hershey Pie....sometimes you just need that!!

I knew after this adventure with the fast food world that I didn't want to give up on my weight loss so I just started over. I had protein, nothing but protein (and a gallon of water of course) all day yesterday. Was I hungry? No, I had satisfied myself and my tummy with the fast food.

I really wasn't sure what I was getting at with this first posting of my new blog, but I think I know now and Michelle said it last night...

You control yourself and what you do. You control what goes into your body and if you choose to eat Big Macs and Chocolate shakes all the time that is on you (and believe me it will be too). There are things in your life you can control and before I went to that fast food joint I knew what I was doing....I knew this wasn't the greatest thing in the world, but it is what I wanted and it is what I got. I knew that I was going to eat protein the next day and I was fine with that..I just needed that fix. I am not angry anymore, not upset....I am satisfied.

Today I have my 4th weigh in and I know that it may not be the best this week and that is because of something I chose to do....If it is not...well....Sometimes you just need a hamburger..

God Bless!!