here are a couple

My laptops battery is going to die so that is all I can do for now.

Chocolate Pumpkin cupcakes and Taco Soup

Taco Soup
This is a Weight Watcher recipe. But don't tell your family and they will never know!

½ lb lean ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 package Hidden Valley Ranch Mix
1 package Taco Seasoning Mix
1 14-oz can tomato sauce
3 (15 oz each) cans S&W Chili beans (I used Sunny Select brand at Lucky's)
1 lb frozen corn
1 4-oz can diced green chilies
2 cups water

Brown ground beef in large stock pot. Drain fat. Add onion, cook 2 minutes. Add both dry mixes and 2 cups water. Stir well. Add remaining ingredients. Cook 5 minutes.

** of course you normally eat taco soup loaded with sour cream, cheese, and tortilla chips, but this is good enough by itself!
1 cup = 2 points

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

Chocolate Pumpkin Muffins – So good!!!!
Another Weight Watcher recipe. But once you add the cool whip your secret is safe!

1 box Devil's Food cake mix
1 15 oz can pumpkin
2/3 cup water

Mix all together with beater for 1 minute. Use muffin papers in your muffin pan. Should be able to get 24 muffins. Bake per box instructions. Top with 1 tablespoon fat free cool whip.

1 muffin = 1 point

Swimming buddy

So I got myself a swimming buddy. Christina and I will be swimming together on Wed and Fri nights at the gym near my house. Our plan is to swim for a 1/2 hour with our rates up up up. Christina has this cool watch thing called Polar that tells her what her heart rate is so that she can easily tell whether she is in her target heart rate or not. I am hoping I will keep up with the swimming throughout my pregnancy so that I can keep my back strong and well, it just feels good to be in water when you are pregnant.
Our goal is twice a week, and maybe in a month or so if we keep that up, we might change it to three times a week. I have a treadmill at home that I need to get on it, now that it is set up in our new house. Christina has an elliptical machine that she has a goal to use on the days we are not swimming.

this is an exercise blog right???

Exercise your right to vote!!!!!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Ok!

So here it is...
I am baby hungry! I need to get this weight under control. I know I can't move when I am pregnant and this size! I need help. What are some of the things you guys do to keep you thinking about weight loss!

I have also discovered this:
1. that I don't seem to sweat much when I am exercising...my heart rate is up and I feel the muscles being worked and I see a difference in my body. but I dont seem to sweat. Never have been much of a sweater when i work out...Not sure why!

(Before work out look at my tummy)

(you can see that my tummy is smaller)

2. I sweat like crazy when I clean house! I get going and I get a great work out! So I have been trying to get a even pull between them.

3. I want to drink Tons of water. I Crave it! I drink at least 3-32 ounce cups a day or more. That isn't a problem!

4. Walking to deliver books is a great work out. How ever I only do that 2 weeks of the moth. So I need to figure out a way to get the walking thing in as a family on the other weeks!!!

5. I need to get a really healthy meal plan going! More veggies and fruit and right portions on everything else!

So there it is. That is what I need to work on!

This week I need to get out catalogs so I will be walking on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday...and of course on Friday as the kids trick or treat! Wednesday is our wards Halloween carnival. I will work on "Work outs" in the mornings it was starting to help with loosing fat on my sides and butt and my arms.

So I am going to aim for that!

How is every one else out there doing???

So I have been doing house work! that is it and I am lucky I am doing that. I pulled a muscle in my neck. It hurts bad! so Iam just trying to function.

Mel for what you went through last week just surviving the day mean you are doing GREAT!

I got the nutritional facts for tha mac and cheese i will add them to the recipe!

Hope you are all doing well!

well.....

I did pretty well with my eating but alas no exercise. I have decided that I am not going to weigh myself everyday. I think it stresses me out. So I will do my wiegh in's on monday. So my goals are to workout today and eat well.

MACARONI AND CHEESE

My friend found this in a fitness magazine!

2 cups elbow macaroni (8 ounces)
2 cups reduced-fat milk
2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup American cheese, cubed
1/2 cup coarsely crushed seasoned croutons
2 tablespoons finely shredded Parmesan cheese


1. Preheat oven to 350 'F. Cook pasta according to package ; drain and return to pot.

2. Meanwhile, in a large screw-top jar, combine 1 cup milk, flour, mustard, salt and pepper; cover and shake until combined. pour into a medium saucepan. stir in remaining 1 cup milk. cook an stir over medium heat just until bubbly. reduce heat to low. add cheddar cheese and American cheese,stirring until melted. pour sauce over pasta, stirring until combined. spoon into a 1 1/2 quart casserole.

3. bake, covered, for 15 minutes. in a small bowl, stir together croutons and parmesan cheese; sprinkle over casserole. bake uncovered, about 5 -7 min.

and that's it!

{New recipe}

We tried this new recipe last night and Chris and I loved it. The kids actually ate the fish, which was surprising. Thought I would share. I am keeping on to this one! So if you like fish, here is a great and EASY recipe.

Halibut with Beans and Spinach
serves 4

2 TBS Olive Oil
1 TSP minced garlic
4 (6oz each) fresh halibut fillets
1 3/4 cup chicken broth
2 TBS lemon juice
2 cups frozen chopped spinach
1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
Generous dash of crushed red pepper

1. Stir in olive oil and garlic into skillet. Add the halibut and turn to coat the fillets with the garlic and oil.
2. Heat the halibut on medium high and cook for 4 minutes, turning the fish halfway through. Remove the fish with a spatula and set aside.
3. Stir in the broth and lemon juice and heat to a boil. Then add the beans, spinach, and red pepper. Return the fish to the skillet. Reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for two minutes or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork and the mixture is hot and bubbling.

** the fish and spinach are so healthy for you and the beans give you that extra umpfh to feel full.

Let's try this again...

Okay I fell off the wagon last week due to one hell of a week. Sick dog, no sleep, my period, sick kids ya know CRAZYNESS. So I am back on track again this week. Yesterday I had 1200 calories but no exercise. I am going to try to get some exercise in today and try to only have 1200 calories. I'll let you know how things go tomorrow.

{A Renewed Friendship}

I went swimming last night at the gym near me. It was freakin awesome! Aside from being a little slow since I have not included swimming in my workout for a few months, hmmm.... since last fall really when I swam at Ohlone. I have only swam for fun, so I am excited to have this back into a routine at a super convenient place. If I wasn't swimming at night, I could walk there.

I swam for a half hour and got past the point where my chest burned and was tight and it felt great. I felt strong afterwards, loose, and some of my body kinks got worked out. I can't wait to go again tonight. I am going to try and swim 3-4 a week, and then use the elliptical 2x a week.

Experts say 1/2 hour exercise a day. I need to do that. It is not going to be crazy marathon training exercise, but I need to get my butt movin. I need to get past the excuse that housework is exercise. It is, but I know I have to step it up past that and actually get my heart rate up.

So, my cap and goggles have renewed our friendship.

What are you ladies doing for exercise?? I am thinking of dusting off my old Bollywood dance exercise video for fun. hah hah In the privacy of my own home of course!

Walking

Last night we walked for a bit and tonight we are going to walk 2 miles I think. We load the kids and Avon books into our stroller and off we go. Who knew Avon would be exercise!!! I would have to say it makes me keep going. So I can't complain there. So walking is my exercise for the next few days.

Time to get out the cap and goggles!

I just moved into our first home. It's official. We are home owners. Woo hoo! And guess what is just down the street from me? A 24 Hour Fitness Sport Center. That means they have a pool. Swimming is my exercise of choice. Yes, I enjoy swimming. So much so, I used to drive 20 minutes at 5 Am to swim At Ohlone's pool for a semester since it was the cheapest way for me to have access to a pool. It was outdoors and cold but I stuck it out.
I have not exercised in about 2 weeks. Now that we have moved in and are kind of settled, I need to get my tusch over to 24 HR Fitness. There is nothing more motivating than being in a bathing suit at a gym to help me be wiser about my food choices!
So ladies, I will make it to the gym this week for the first time and begin to set up my exercise schedule.
I gained 5lbs last month, but after moving, I am back down. I can attribute that to packing up and unpacking these past two weeks!

Hey, I need some healthy recipes that kids would enjoy. Any suggestions all you Moms out there?

Saturday was go go go...

I never stopped walking and moving on Saturday. we just went and went. I woke up feeling super sick but after about 11:30 I was feeling better and we decided to go out. I felt really good till 7:30 and then I was feeling crappy again...but at least I moved and moved during the sick feeling!

day 6

Well I didn't have as good of a day today. I didn't get exercise in again and I ended up eating about 1400 calories. I had a low blood sugar and it made it so I went over in my calories. I think tomorrow I am going to have a free day.


I got up this morning and gained 2 lbs back. WHAT THE ??? Anyway I guess next week I need to get a little more aggressive.

day 5

okay day 5 was busy of course. I didn't get my exercise in but I only had 1210 calories so that ain't nothing to shake a stick at. It is so hard sometimes to have so little calories but in the end it will be worth it RIGHT?

I woke up and weighed this morning and I was down another pound YEAH!!!!

Wholey busy week batman..

I haven't been able to get anything done between home, family and Avon I have been more busy than ever. I feel good about that. I want to have the stamina to keep going. I have not got in the "true exercise" but I have been more active than normal. I do want to get eh exercise back in. I need to make it work and no matter what!!!!

Im down some

I woke up this morning feeling a bit smaller so I decided to weight in. I was down 2 lbs yay! I know I have been busy with work and home. Because of being busy Im not eating as much or snacking. Im still not good with water intake or exercise. Thats all just keeping updated.

day 4

So day four was CRAZY busy. I ended up only getting a 30 min workout. I made Adam go for a scary walk after it was dark. It was alot of fun. I live right at the foot of the mountains and to take a walk in my neighborhood means it is straight up hill. My legs were dying. So even though it was only a 30 min workout it was intense to say the least.

I only had 1200 calories so I think I was fine on the calories for the day. And I got on the scale and was actually down 3 pounds from yesterday morning. I hope they stay away.

Anywho I am glad that I am updating daily because it is keeping me honest. When I want to give up I just think about me having to blog about how I gave up and I don't want to give up.

day 3

Okay so I rocked it on my exercise yesterday. I did a 30 min workout (25min treadmill and 5 min crunches and weights). Then in the evening Adam had an hour football practice and they have a path that goes around the path so me and rick walked that the whole practice and the little ones played on the playground.

As far as eating goes I had around 1300 calories.

I did get a little frustrated because I got on the scale this morning and gained a pound. Seriously pissed me off but whatever I am not going to let it get me down.

Good luck ladies!

keeping up with the rymers..

Melanie you are rocken the casaba!!! I can't keep up with you. you are doing great!

I swear sense I made the goal I haven't been able to stop moving long enough to exercise. but for me the moving and getting things done and not stopping actually I like. I need to getup the stamina I use to have. me going and going and going to me at this time is almost better than exercise. I haven't been able to stay this busy with out feeling tired or worn out in yrs. But i do want to get the exercise in...so I will work on getting it in this week...at some point. How ever I feel that while cleaning my house I got a better work out Because I sweat more cleaning that I do working out...LOL go figure!

day 2

Yesterday went pretty well. I stuck with my calorie intake and I got in 2 workouts. I stepped on the scale today and was dissapointed to not see any weight loss yet but I am not loosing hope. Let me know how you all are doing.

Today

Yesterday I stayed SUPER busy and walked with my family last night. I haven't had a chance to work out today...but the day is not over yet. I am doing OK so far...staying away from sugar is good need to still get water in today. I got myself up to drinking 3- 32 ounce glasses of water a day. I figure that is a good amount...I am going to try and work out a bit tonight. I have to scrub my house down now and decorate for Halloween. I have another lady coming by tonight to sign up for Avon. WOO HOO. so that is where I am at right now.

I need to work on eating breakfast first thing so I get it in!!!

day 1

Okay so I worked out twice and did pretty well on my eating. I ate 1500 calories and I only wanted to eat 12-1300 but I am not going to be too hard on myself. Deb how did you do yesterday?

I want to work out twice today and stay within the 12-1300 calorie range again.

Goal setting!

Ok so for this week I want to exercise the rest of the weekdays.
I will continue to watch my sugar intake and water intake!
I can do this...
I will get healthy...
I want another BABY!!!

another go at it!

Okay so I have a little over 5 weeks until my trip. I have not lost a single pound. So now that there is only 5 weeks left I have to kick it in the butt NOW!

I am feeling encouraged and I have already done my morning workout. I am going to try to stick with the program I was doing before when I wanted to loose weight in January. I lost 15 pounds in those 5 weeks and hopefully I can do the same.

As far as exercise I think I am going to add running. I despise running but I figure if I only run maybe 10 minutes in my treadmill workout than I will speedwalk for the remainder of time. My goal is to do the treadmill workout 2 times a day.

Last night I told Rick I want him to be mean and make me do it and he told me he didn't have the heart to be mean but he did say that we can do an evening workout together. So I guess some support is better than none right?

As far as my eating goes I am going to try real hard to stick to the natures edge shakes and try to only eat veggies, fruit, weight control oatmeal, tuna and cottage cheese. I will probably eat what I make everyone else for dinner but I will modify my meal a little.

Wish me luck peeps cause I really, really, really want to loose at least 15 pounds before my trip.

On the go again....

That is it! I have to loose weight! If I want more kids. That is IT! I have to get a goal or something down. Something to work towards. I don't think I am done. I don't want to be done either. I want 1 more. In the shape I am in I cannot have a child. I am not healthy! I need to do this.

I am missing out on comments and talking on here. I still check every day to see how every one is doing. So please lets not quit!!! I need all of your ups and downs to keep me going. AND YES downs help me to. I need to know that I am not the lone Fat lady struggling in the world! So COME ON CAMPERS LETS BUCK UP!!!

I have been better with my sugar intake. we are eating far less at my house. I feel the energy levels rising more and more each day. I cant say that I notice weight loss but I am going to focus on the feeling better part! So Here is to getting back on the Wagon...Please join me!

Why is it so flipin hard?

I wish losing weight was as easy as breathing. I know I'm a skinny person trapped in a few layers of fat. I need to like healthy food. Eclairs are just to good to pass up at a baby shower. Steak dinner with a baked potato and a onion bloom is OK to eat for your anniversary right? Cinnamon toast for breakfast cause I need to grocery shopping. Do I sound like anybody else or am I just a big loser that cant get it together. I want to lose weight I just need something to change and I know its something that I have to find in ME to do it well. So needless to say I haven't been doing well with the whole losing of weight thing.
I am going back to work in a salon. I will work evenings and Saturdays. I hope this will get my energy level up some by keeping my house together and working part-time. I'm sad I have to go back to work after being a SAHM for 4 1/2 years but I think the economy is hurting us and everybody badly right now. That's whats up with me.

Sick!

Sorry I have not posted in a while. My family has been sick. We all have chest colds. I have not worked out at all in 2 weeks. I hit a wall when I gained the 12 pounds while working out. Then when I was ready to get back in the saddle I got a cold that makes me feel like I can't breath. We are still sick but I plan to get going again after I feel better. Also I have been trying to keep my water intake going and eating right. I don't see any weight loss again I only see more energy! That is my update. How are you all doing out there?

Huh?

What happened to the music???? I was enjoying it!

Turn Walks Into Workouts

Pump up your walks with a bit of creativity and some simple techniques.

by Kristopher Kaiyala for MSN Health & Fitness.

You're already fitness walking several times a week—great! Ready to step it up a bit? There are several ways to turn walks into workouts without significantly breaking stride. They just involve a little creativity and walking outside of the box, as it were. "A few simple techniques can help maximize the benefits of your walk and make it more of an overall body workout," says Jo Ann Taylor, owner and founder of The Walking Connection, the nation's leading walking organization.
So what are Taylor's fitness secrets? They're nothing you can't handle with a little determination. Just keep reading, and happy trails.

Swing It! Ever make fun of the walkers swinging their arms like there's no tomorrow? They know something you don't. "This is the number one best thing to do," Taylor says. "Bend your arms 90 degrees at your elbow as you walk. This will quicken your pace, raise your heart rate, use more muscles, and burn 5 to 10 percent more calories. Walk at a quick pace with your arms by your side. Let them swing naturally as you walk. Then gradually bend them while keeping the natural rhythm of the swing. Don't exaggerate the motion and continue to stand tall with your chin up. You will notice immediately how your bent arm swing helps with your gait, balance, and propulsion."

Interval Walking If you want to get more sweat (and effectiveness) per stride, break up your walk into slow and fast segments. "Vary the pace of your walk so that you have a phase of working hard (up to 90 percent of your maximum heart rate) followed by a recovery phase where you stroll slowly, bringing your heart rate down," Taylor says. Repeat each group of segments as you see fit and don't forget to warm up for at least 10 minutes before each session.

Head for the Hills "To increase body toning, cardiovascular fitness, and calorie burn, walk uphill," Taylor says. Sound daunting? Listen to this: "As a gauge, each 500 feet of elevation gain you walk will feel like one additional mile." Now that's making a difference!

Rough It! Is your normal circuit on sidewalks or paved road shoulders? It might be time to find a trail. "Walking on a rough but level track requires 50 percent more energy than walking on a paved road," Taylor says. Chances are, unless you live in the heart of the paved jungle, there are alternative walking routes all around you. Go find them!

Circuit Walking Think you can't strength train without a gym membership? The next time you're on that power walk, think of creative ways to tone specific muscles. Taylor suggests using a park bench for push-ups, a curb for calf raises, and a wall for wall sits.

Enter an Event Consider this a morale booster if nothing else. Register for a 5K or 10K a couple of months in advance and then train for it. "Start by setting a goal for how fast you want to complete the course," Taylor says. "Set up your training schedule to help you accomplish your objective. Be consistent in your walking workouts. Reward yourself as you train to help you keep focused on the event."

Rewards are nice, just go easy on the ice cream.

Fat attack!

Beware of these 10 high-fat fast-food concoctions.

by Sally Wadyka for MSN Health & Fitness

The good news is that fast-food restaurants have all made great strides toward adding healthier choices to their menus. But the bad news is that the majority of fast food offerings are still loaded with excess calories and fat. "At the very least, try to downsize rather than super-size," says Leslie Bonci, a registered dietitian and director of sports nutrition at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. "Those so-called 'value meals' may give you more for your money, but that means more for your waistline too."

According to the American Heart Association recommendations, your daily fat intake should not be more than 30 percent of your total calories, with saturated fat contributing no more than 7 percent. For someone eating 2,000 calories a day, that means fewer than 600 calories from fat, or less than 66 grams. And within that total, saturated fat should be limited to fewer than 15 grams (if you are worried about high cholesterol or heart disease, that number should be even lower).

You can get nutrition information for most fast food restaurants on each company's Web site (for example, McDonald’s, Burger King and Subway). You can also check out chowbaby.com for a round up of nutritional information from a variety of eateries. [Note: All of these numbers came from each restaurant's site except for the information on Cinnabon and Boston Market, which came from chowbaby.com because those restaurants don't list nutritional info on their sites.] And whatever you do, avoid these 10 over-the-top offerings—each of which contains obscene amounts of artery-clogging fats and, in some cases, nearly an entire day's worth of calories!
McDonald's Deluxe Breakfast is a smorgasbord of bad-for-you foods—including eggs, sausage, pancakes smothered in syrup and margarine, hash browns and a biscuit. In moderation, any of these items could be an OK (if occasional) breakfast, but add them together and you're looking at a grand total of 1,220 calories, 550 of them from fat, including 17 grams of saturated fat.
Burger King's Triple Whopper With Cheese is a perfect example of why more is not better. A regular Whopper With Cheese already delivers 760 calories, with 47 grams of total fat including 16 grams of saturated fat. But when you triple it up, this meal tips the scales at 1,230 calories and 82 grams of fat including 32 grams of saturated fat. (And that's before you order a side of fries!)

You might think you're doing a good thing by ordering the Taco Bell Fiesta Taco Salad. But don't let the word "salad" delude you into believing that this meal is healthy. This bowlful of goodies packs 860 calories and 46 grams of total fat, 14 grams of which are saturated fat.
Sure there are thin-crust options at Pizza Hut, but if you dive into a Stuffed Crust Meat Lover'spie, you'd better warn your arteries in advance. Two slices of this will stuff you with 1,000 calories and 82 grams of total fat, 22 grams of them saturated.
Popping into Cinnabon for a Caramel Pecanbon isn't exactly a breakfast of champions. This gooey pastry packs 1,100 calories and 56 grams of fat, while providing virtually no worthwhile nutrients.

Boston Market is one of the better stops for quick, healthy bites, but you still have to watch what you order. For example, the menu includes a chicken pot pie that contains 750 calories and 46 grams of fat, including 14 grams of the saturated sort.

Subway may have several healthy sandwiches (the ones that helped poster-boy Jared slim down), but that doesn’t mean there aren't a few bad choices on offer. Avoid the 6-inch Double Meat Classic Tuna, which, thanks to lots of artery-clogging cheese and mayonnaise, packs 790 calories and 55 grams of fat, including 16 grams of saturated fat.

Domino's ExtravaganZZa Feast deep-dish pizza is a feast indeed. The pie comes topped with pepperoni, ham, green pepper, onion, black olives, mushrooms, sausage, beef and extra cheese. That might help explain why it also comes with 860 calories, 46 grams of fat and 17 grams of saturated fat in just two slices.

The fried chicken seems like an obviously unhealthy choice at KFC, but it's actually not the fattiest item on the menu. The Mashed Potato Bowl With Gravy contains 690 calories and 31 grams of fat, nine of them saturated.

On a hot summer day, a stop at Dairy Queen seems like the perfect treat. But watch out that you're not treating yourself to more than you bargained for. A large serving of its Caramel CheeseQuake Blizzard means spooning up a whopping 1,290 calories, with 500 of those calories coming from fat, including 39 grams of saturated fat.

I hate this whole FAT thing!

so last week I did weigh myself and it said that I gained 12 pounds...I wished that I had turrets at that moment AND I FELT LIKE CUSSING!!!! I have been working out and staying busy and well, I wanted an opposite of that for results! So GRRRR that is my update...and I don't have much to add except that I have to keep going because I have felt like I can do more! I have more energy and I have been getting more done so I can't complain...I just want to loose some of the BULK! any tips for fatty fat girl!

Frustrations.....

I haven't been on this blog for a while and thought that I needed to come on and read the post that have been published and to see how everybody is doing. I know how you all feel when you say that you crave chocolate and cheese burgers and that you are to the point when there are no changes in your weight loss.

I know that six months ago that I had a Gastric bypass and that the weight has come off really fast for me; but I am getting to the point when I think that my weight loss is going to start slowing and down and changing. I've lost one hundred and thirty four pounds and I have ninety four pounds more too loose to hit my goal.

The surgeons say that in every ones weight loss they hit a point when there body is comfortable where it is and it naturally slows it's self down. I've also been told that you will seventy five percent of the weight and they your body slows down.

I know that it is really frustrating but it happens to all of us. Right now I have only two weeks of the month that I loose weight. Two weeks ago I gained six pounds (i started my period its wonderful to be a girl) this past week I lost the six pounds that I gained; that leaves me two weeks to loose weight before I start the whole process all over again.

I am grateful that I have lost the weight that I have; and that I have wonderful friends and family to help me through the precess, and I hope that in return that there is something that I can do to help all of you. Good luck this week on what ever it is that you are working on and I wish you all success.

Get it together girl!

I wish I was one of those people that can't eat when they are stressed out or blue. No, I get to be the one that craves chocolate and cheeseburgers when I am feeling crappy. Which of course, you feel even crappier after you eat it. Ugh... I need to get out of this funk quick.

busy

I really haven't weighed this week. But I have been watching portions and drinking more water. Not to mention going and going...and got in exercise! I don't have a scale here so I will have to go weigh myself at Jens! This week I want to keep up with the water portions and exercise! After I weigh myself i will post if I have lost anything!

Food

I need healthy food ideas, please post some yummy ideas for me Id much appreciate it. I didnt do to well last week. I didnt fall off the band wagon completley, but if I dont step up my game this week I will be mad at myself.
My new goal: My anniversary is Sept. 22 I want to weigh 175 by then. I can do it I can do it I can do it I can do it I can do it.....

no change!

Once again I am in the no change category. I do feel a little better and my blood sugars have been alot better so the little bit I have done this week is doing something. I just wish it was weight coming off. We always have this week right?

Debs update...

(WOW can we say hefty picture I am a bit smaller than that now!)

So last week I started back on exercising but I didn't achieve my goals! During the week I started having a hard time breathing....Freaked me out. Thought I was having another pulmonary embolism! I was in the ER for hours for test after test.

6 hours later test all clear....I had a breathing treatment and felt a lot better. Lucky for me it was not a clot. That would have been a frustration and a whole change of life for me. Melanie would understand...It would be back to injections to thin my blood and a hospital stay...so needless to say I have not kept up my exercise.

TODAY IS A NEW DAY! I got up and exercise and I fell great. I have to use my inhalers for tightness but all in all I am good...it did take me back down to 18 Min's on my exercise but I feel that decrease isn't to bad considering it could have been far worse.

My goal is to keep up the exercise, drink more water, watch portions and try to eat several small meals during the day to kick in the metabolism!

Stayed the same

No weight loss this week. I did good this week but I know I could of done better.
I am going on vacation this weekend and I hope two have 2 lbs off by thursday.More water and more exercise is the goal this week.

Weekly check in!

Okay this week was mixed for me. I did lose my 2lbs for the week but I did not exercise. I watched what I ate too. I am going to continue with my 2lbs a week goal and I am going to be adding more water to my diet and more exercise. Wish me luck!

shame on me!

so I wrote that I was going to work out..I didn't! I have been suffering from head aches and edema...not to mention weird sleeping habits and feel tired all the time. I know that if I get going again that will change. I just need to do it!

so goals for this week are
#1 get my scale from Jen and weigh in!
# 2 get back to exercising
#3 work out for 20 Min's each day this week
#4 work on drink up to 1 gallon of water through the day each day...
#5 to make sure that I eat something every 3 hours to get my metabolism up and running

Yay I did it!!

It has been a week since I started my weight loss. I accomplished two goals last week, first one was no french fries and no soda. yay ( I still crave soda though) and the second is that I lost 4lbs as of this morning yay! Now my new goals for this week are to get down to 179 and to add more exercise.
For food last week I just ate Special k red berries. I tried some smart ones frozen lunches and I just ate what my family did for dinner just smaller portion. I used the smaller plates and that helped. I also used South Beach Bars for the protein and the sugar cravings. Oh and Gum. I am the type of person who has to have something sweet after I eat so this has help me.

No more excuses!

Okay I got some great news today that I am going to mexico in November for a week so you know what that means. I have 3 months to work my hiney off so I can feel comfy in a bathing suit. I think I might do better if I have something to look forward to. I also think 3 months is a good amount of time to lose what I want. I know I still won't be the skinniest on the block by then but I still would feel better. Wouldn't it be great if I could go and just relax and not care what people think of me. So my goal is 2-3 pounds a week for the first month. Then we will see what happens next month. Please, please, please help keep me encouraged and motivated. My health is back in the crap zone too. So I would like to get that under control again. You all are giving me such inspiration. Thanks!!!

tired

so here is a vicious circle...

I have been so tired lately that I haven't exercised...but I know if I exercise that I will get more energy. I want to exercise I just can't seem to get my butt up to do it.

The cool thing is I have gotten my workouts up to 25 Min's. Yep I was bounce this fat body all over. (hopefully all that fat moving every where will burn extra calories...LoL). I am writing to let you know starting tomorrow I am back to exercising. I worked out until Friday so it hasn't been that long but I cant let it go longer or I will be back to square 1.

So my goal is to get to 30 Min's this week exercising and to drink more water!
I am going to buy me a out fit that is a size smaller than I am and my reward will be the outfit when I get in to it! My hubby thinks this is a bonus for him and he things I should get a nightie for his reward...the outfit is more appealing to me...we may have to get 2 things so we both get our rewards for my work! (I am not sure what he is thinking there)!

My excuses, Caution: They're lame

Why I did not loose 5 lbs before the end of July, which means no new cute sandals. Ugh
Excuse #1 I'm stressed out. So this means mindless eating is occurring. Especially since I just discovered Pirate Booty. I could not put that bag down this weekend.
Excuse #2 Went to a wedding this weekend. HAD to have wedding cake. And they served fudge and egg rolls, and Caesar salad. Come on people! It was a sad and quick defeat.
Excuse #3 I love to read. And I have been devouring some good reads this month. But its a very passive activity. Maybe I should only get to read on a treadmill or elliptical?
Excuse #4 I'm tired after a day with two toddlers. I have skipped the gym too many times.
Excuse #5 We have a larger family dynamic that we are living under the same roof. This results is large family dinners every night and some lunches ( fried chicken, fried bread, french bread, potato salad.) I tried to stay away from the kitchen, but that didn't always work.

My excuses were lame, but I warned you about that. I just needed to see them written and be accountable for them. I am shameful about how I let these lame excuses get in the way of my goal.

NEW GOAL: Loose 5lbs before my trip to Michigan on Sunday.
REWARD: Cute sandals for the beach trip

Fluffy me

Ok today is the first day of my weight loss. I hope to loses 2 lbs a week. My starting weight is 186 as of this morning YIKES. I am setting a couple of donts this week and so on they are NO SODA, NO FRENCH FRIES hence the pictures above.haha They are no longer in vocabulary and Im sure I'll even save money too.Bonus. Im just going to be watching what I put in my mouth and I need to drink more water. Exercise wise Im going to do Yard work and go walking.

I hope everyone is doing well. Lets all skinny on down.

Mondays the day!

I have decided to really get going on the weight loss process and by posting this I know I will do it. I decided to start next Monday Aug 4th because I am going to Twin Falls tomarrow to see the new Temple there. I will be gone all weekend and this will be my last vacation for the summer so after this weekend I will focus on it 100%. I did L.A. weight loss after I had Ash and I liked the program and did well with it so I am going to try to use what I learn through L.A. to get me going. The thing I think that work for me was weighing myself a couple of times a week and when I saw the numbers go down that motivated me. So Im going to dust off the scale and bring it back to reality.
Do any of you guys know of any "body cleanses"? I want to detox and get rid of what every I can first. I will post on monday and tell you more goals. Wish me luck! I am committed to this now!

Newbie

Hey! So I am new to this group as a contributor. I have been a lurker for some time and finally asked Debbie to ADD ME. :)
So where I am at now is that I would LOVE to loose about 15 lbs soon. I have hit a fierce plateau after working off some excess baby weight after having kids. My youngest will be 2 in November.
Real quick here are some things that have helped me in the past:
Sweat - you have to sweat to get the fat off. The ugly kind where your face is red, your breathing hard and you sweat. I hate working out sometimes because I would rather curl up in bed with a great book after the kids go to sleep, but I know I will feel better overall if I get out and do it.
Water- can't drink enough. If I think about putting food to my lips, I drink a glass of water first then wait to see if I am still hungry.
Mindless eating - I know I eat when I am bored or stressed. I have to be aware of that an act according.
Baked goods and cheese are my fiercest nemesis.
Food journal - if you keep one, you'll not want to write down what you are putting in your mouth because you don't want to see it in the journal. For me that would be ( finishing my kids half bowl of Mac & Cheese, a handful of chips, etc. I am a mom, not a garbage disposal.)
Portion Control -I struggle with this and so sometimes I have to put my dinner plate in the sink and walk away, otherwise I will load it up again while watching my family continue to eat.

Goal this month - lose 5lbs before July is over.
Reward- Cute new sandals!!!

WHY!!!!

Why does it have to be so hard to stay motivated. I have lost all motivation in the weight loss category. I tell myself every morning that I am going to have a great day and do my exercises and eat better and not 10 minutes later I eat something crappy and I loose all strength for the day. I know in my mind that I should keep strong and even when I slip I should pick myself up and keep going but I don't I just give up. I want this weight off in the worst way but I have ran out of steam to do it. The only thing I can think of is I am a little depressed and extremely stressed with the kids being out of school for the summer plus the hubby has had alot of work trips out of town which leaves me a lonely single parent with 3 beautiful but very hyper and demanding little boys.

I know there are always excuses and I need to just buck up and get moving but sometimes I just don't know where to begin. Deb I am glad you are doing so well right now. Keep it up! I am proud that your attitude is in a good place right now.

Hello..Echo echo echo...

So I know some of you have been leaving comments to my many ramblings. I have been the only one posting though. I hope that you all aren't writing because I am trying to be peppy! I miss hearing what and how you guys are doing! Even if you are hitting lows or on a break. I know that life is always busy and things don't always work they way we want them too...But I would still love to hear it Helps me either way. Believe it or not!

GO GO Energy...

I am moven and going unlike I have in a long time....since I have been working out I have been having an increase of energy and I feel like I am able to do a lot more. I am not so sad that I haven't see any weight loss I know that will come! (my arms are toning up though...WOO HOO)I am just happy to feel like I can get more done and I am not feeling so Lazy!

I haven't seen any post from any one in bit...I have been thinking about a you all and hoping you are all well and Happy! I hope you all let us know what is up even if you are going through a down time.

My goal for this week is to get up to 20 Min's on my exercise!

Weird!

Well as you may know by my last post I have taken on a different attitude about weight loss..the crazy thing is once I did...it all seem to flow. I have been exercising every day and it is because I just want to do it. I get it in when I can I have gotten more time in...Woo hoo and I have been watching my portions. I am eating less at the meals that I would eat tons....I am starting to get breakfast in right after I get up! I even have had some desserts...but I only ate a little and didn't want more...Call it strange but this mind set is working for me! I haven't noticed weight loss but I don't think that I will loss weight Real quick but that is OK....Slow and steady works for me!

How is every one doing? I know this isn't easy...but I think if we beat ourselves up we get frustrated and we quit! so if we eat those treats, Eat just a little and it wont kick your butt. IF we stay happy and Keep moving and We WILL MAKE IT!

I will look this good again!

Maybe even better!

observation...

I haven't been getting in the exercise that I planned but I noticed that I have been getting out and moving a lot more since I have wanted to. so on Saturday we went and walked around the mall here that is a mile around. We have been taking the kids to the park and chasing them around and getting a lot more exercise in... so I feel like I am getting the exercise that I missed in the morning.

I still notice that I don't eat very much...I am catching myself thinking 'Oh I should breakfast" and notice that it is 3pm..that is bad. I am worse with my body when I am not on my period...then I just eat a lot and then all the wrong things.

Breaking all these bad habits are going to be hard but I am glad that I am getting more exercise. I also bought slim fast drinks and bars so that I can grab something quick and know that I have at least got some calories and protein in....so my body isn't thinking that I am starving it!

Posting here and writing it all down it is a real reality moment! I am now more conscience of what I am doing to me. I know we all feel like we are stumbling and down. But I think reality is if we try and eat healthy and pay attention portions and get exercise we are doing better that we realize! I don't think a splurge here or there should make us feel bad. I think that if we are trying and paying attention to eating and being healthy we will make choices and not feel so guilty. I think splurging should be OK every once in a while...because life is to short not to enjoy it...but I do feel that moderation is key. If I eat a lot more calories I should do a bit more exorcise because really they do cancel each other out!!! I don't think I could live my life feeling like I was missing something...May be this is pointless rambling....but I think that my goal is to eat with moderation in mind even if I want to have a treat. keep up the exercise and try to get a little more worked in...and try and make this an enjoyable thing! ( I hope that is not to much to ask!)

Here is my goal...

So I think in about a year I want to get pregnant again. I am worried about getting gestational diabeties. Both of my last pregnancies I was borderline so I want to have as much weight off as I can by then. Diabeties is horrible in my family I sometimes feel I am doomed to have it. That is my biggest goal plus when I get pregnant I end up weighing less after delivery than before I get pregnant so that would be a bonus. I just lose my appatite when I pregnant so I never over eat during pregnancy. It might not be the same if I have my weight off by then though. That is the goal. Now I have to figure out the food part. I really just need to find healthy foods I like. I just eat all the wrong foods. Any good food advice I would love to hear. Why is it so hard for me to drink 6-8 glasses of water a day? I like water its not torture but I never do it. Maybe thats my first start I will try to drink 4 glasses today and 6 tomarrow. I ll let you know how I do.

My train has stalled

I'm off the wagon again. I feel like I should be going to AA, or OA. I'm good for two days and then the heck with it. Right now I don't want to diet. I don't want to exercise. I just want to lose weight. Does that sound crazy or what? I've got to get and STAY motivated! Is there a magic pill I can take that will help me get my head straight?

All are welcome...

For all of those who join feel free to write about ups and downs and any thing you like on here! I have noticed that even just some of the comments pep me up and get me motivated...even if the person who wrote it didn't think it would! You guys are great thanks for joining and being a great support group!!!

My check up

Ok so I didn't exercise as much as I would have liked to, but the weekend was hot and I never sat down...so I wont be to hard on myself. We went up to my parents for the weekend to keep helping get it ready for renters. I took laundry and Jennies kids...so I was busy! Yesterday I had edema in my feet and ankles so bad that I had my feet up most of the day! I couldn't exercise because of how bad my feet were. Today they aren't as swollen but they are a bit still...but I exercised and got showered ...

As for looking nicer I haven't fit that in yet but I am working on one goal at a time. So this week it will be the exercise and at least shower every day...the showering I need to get in. I just don't always get that lucky!

Over the weekend I drank and drank and drank but eating was scarce because it was so hot all you wanted to do was drink...so Gatorade was my friend!

I am hoping this is my first full week of getting my goal accomplished...I have to forgive Monday because I can't exercise with my legs that swollen!

I know that I can do it even though it is HOT! I have already noticed a bit more energy than I had before!

So here is to this week!

Interesting Study

I saw this today while checking email. I thought I should share.

Yesterday was great. Except I couldn't eat anything last night because of a dentist appt. My mouth was so numb I would have bit my tongue off had I tried to eat something. Guess that's just my dentist's way of helping me.

I got up again this morning at 5:30 and walked. It feels so good to cross that item of your mental to do list first thing in the morning.

I hope you're all off to a good start this week!

Back at it!

The 4th of July weekend is over. No more excuses. I'm back on the train!

I went shopping this weekend, with my birthday money, and bought several new work outfits. They're really cute. But, I bought them all a size snug. I could wear them now but they're just a little bit tight. This is encouragement for me to drop 10 lbs in the next 2-3 weeks. I want to be able to wear them when I have clients from Mexico in SLC the week of July 21st. And, more important than that, I want to wear them at Stampin' Up Convention the week of July 28th. Guess I better be a good little girl the next few weeks.

I started off today at 5:30 am with a brisk walk outside. Very nice! It was hard to get up that early but such a great way to start a day. And thus far, I'm counting my points and doing what I should. I can do this, I can do this, I can do this!

My goal this week: Count my points every day and walk every morning before work (Monday - Friday).

Day 1...

OK so today is the first day I got exercise in...I was able to go 10 Min's. I think I can work through the burn so tomorrow I am going for 15 Min's. I am going to try and do 15 Min's all week. I could feel the burn in my abs, glut's, and calf's. I did arm exercises trying to get all my body involved. I tried some of the movements with out weights and just holding them up in place and moving them kicked my butt so I will work up to my 3 lbs weights...So all in all I found that I am super fat!!! I have to get moving or I will never get it off!

I like pictures on the blogs so I thought I would add one! Here is me and My BUG!!

Big Giant Slacker

Well, I've fallen off the wagon. Since the mini eclair incident I've been a free spirit eater again. I still lost 2 pounds last week though. Thanks to the first part of the week. Now I've got myself talked into waiting to board the train again until after the fourth. Me and my all or nothing attitude can't just be good until the 4th, no, I've got to be bad up to, and through the 4th. BUT, after this week, that's it! I'm back at it! I've got to get this weight off. By my birthday next year I've got to be at least 50 lbs lighter.

I'm with Deb on routines rule! And next week I've got to get into an exercise routine!

Good luck this week everyone.

Check in

OK as for my goal.
I got a routine down that I want to do and I got a schedule worked out.

Even down to what I want to get done in the house and times to get up.

I am going to make my goal to keep track of what I eat...Again

I also need to start my routine and get a steady routine down!

so next week I should be able to tell you how long I am able to work out before dying!

I also have a goal to get my self looking decent. I have put myself on the back burner since I was pregnant with Ella. I have decided for me to feel better about myself I want to start wearing make up again. I know I feel better looking when I do and I think that I need to build my self esteem


I have already noticed that when I am not on my period I don't eat! It is almost 3 here and I have had some dried apples about an hour ago...that is it! I really need to work on eating breakfast and have snacks of protein in the middle. I am so screwed up! I going to have to put more focus on me!

I also notice that I head straight for the computer in the morning too! That is about to stop! I get wrapped up in the millions of things to do on there. I then don't eat anything, get any exercise or get things done. I have started giving me computer time! Now my focus is to get everything done at my house IN THE MORNING and then I can have afternoon to get errands and kid things down. I have to give me computer time for Avon. But I don't need to be on here much more then that and Bills!

So there you have it. It may take me a bit to get this routine down but I am determined to get it done. That way I can make appointments and such according to my routine!

So tell me what you think!

FRUSTRATION!

OK so I have really paying attention and thinking about what I put in my mouth. I haven't stopped myself because I wanted to get a realistic view of what I eat in a week. I picked the worst week to do it because I am on my period and it is the only time I crave chocolate. I have no Idea why I just do! So needless to say this week has been a horrible reality check on the whole intake thing. I have been working on my other goals too. I think after my period and will keep track of what I am eating to see if it is any different! If not I have been fooling myself about not eating a lot of sugar and I will need that reality check!

Checking In Mid Week

It's Thursday. So far this week, M-W, I've done great. I've stayed within my points range and followed the good health guidelines EXCEPT I haven't taken a multi-vitamin everyday. I've got to get better at that. So good job for me! (high five, pat my own back)

NOW I'm faced with a challenge. Tonight is the summer BBQ for Shelly's main client. We are going and taking the princess to show her off. Of course there will be lots of yummy and fattening foods there. It's a pot luck BBQ, so besides the standard hot dogs and hamburgers, there will be all different kinds of salads and desserts. HELP! What do I do? Do I say to heck with it and eat whatever I want? Do I allow myself little tastes of yummy things? Or do I hold steady and only eat what I can count points for? I'm leaning towards option 2. Tasting a few things but not over doing it. BUT, we're taking mini eclairs. How can I not have a mini eclair? Wait, it's just food, I'll live if I don't eat the mini eclair. Help! I need a giant dose of will power!

I propose a goal day!

Dee got me thinking. I think we should have a goal day (for those of us who want). I think that we accomplish more if we set goals. I see that dee is working on her points. I think it would be a good thing for me to vocal ( type) my goals out and then I can report back...feel accountable for the stuff I throw out there. so Monday is going to be the day for me. I will set a goal and then report on the goal the following monday. Mind you this is for me. ANYONE else wanting to do it is more than welcome.



I have loved the tips that Ronda and Mel have been putting on here and I have been trying to insert things into my life. I am super glad that Dee Joined the grioup it is nice to have a new friend, cheerleader and support!



Thanks everyone for being so cool and keeping up this blog. please feel free to comment and if you would llike to join just let me know.

So the goals are: To set up a routin, keep track of my food intake and set a time to exercise!

Crashing the Party

Thank you for letting me crash the party! I've got to get some weight off and maybe by joining your blog, and making my struggles public, I'll get my act together.

So, yesterday was my 37th birthday. Happy Birthday to me! And this year I've decided to give myself health. I want to be healthy. I want to be active. I want to be slim (not skinny) healthy slim. I want to live to see my little girl grow up. I want to board an airplane without cringing. I want to bend over without struggle. I WANT SMALLER BOOBS!

I went back to Wei.ght Wat.chers on Saturday. I had been going during March and April and lost 20 lbs of which I gained almost 10 back during May and June. Not good. But, at least I'm still down 10.

So today I embark on my health quest and I'm making changes a little at a time. I can't do it all, and when I try to I always fail. This week, I'm focusing on nutrition. Counting my points, making healthy decisions, drinking my water. Next week, I'll add exercise back in.

Good luck to everyone this week!

Ok here is the Plan...

OK so I got to thinking....I am way over weight and I really have to start a little more to my size than jump in like I am a barbie...so a while back I bought a mini trampoline

SEEN HERE!

So I figured I could use that and I bought some 3 pound weights to use while I am jumping (bouncing) to do are toning exercises. I can move up in weight until we get the treadmill and elliptical...

So any words of advise????

slow...

I really need to figure out how to get exercise in... any one got some Ideas of what I can do at home with no exercise machine. It needs to be at home due to the fact the my little ones are NOT workable when it comes to going out side...they both go in different directions!

Any ideas are welcome!!

Choosing The Best Weight Loss Program

Losing weight is easy. The most difficult part about losing weight is to ensure that the lost weight does not return. The only way you can ensure that you succeed in maintaining your weight loss is by changing your eating habits and lifestyle.

That is why weight loss programs are so important. The best weight loss program is one that you can continue for a long time to come and one that keeps you motivated enough right through so that you continue maintaining your weight loss goals irrespective of the situation you are in.

When choosing the best weight loss program pay special attention to the basic features of the program so that your best weight loss program becomes a safe and healthy weight loss program.

The best weight loss program should have a diet plan which is well balanced and includes all the variety of foods from each food group. Remember, your best weight loss program should not exclude any food group from the diet plan. The diet plan should have a minimum of 1200 calories for women and 1600 calories for men.

The best weight loss program should have an exercise program embedded in it. Do not fool yourself into thinking that you will be able to lose weight and keep it off without a daily exercise routine. A good weight loss program should set realistic targets when it comes to weight loss. When we say realistic target, we mean losing around 1-2 pounds in a week.

Do not forget to check the cost aspect of your best weight loss program. The expense should fit into your budget otherwise you will have problems maintaining your weight loss program. Another important aspect is checking for support. The best weight loss program should offer long term support because there will be times when you will need support and motivation.
If your weight loss program fulfills all the above criteria then you are on your way to choosing the best weight loss program.

Check Out More Articles :
Free Diet Programs - Find power strength fitness equipment Tips, success stories personal trainer - online fitness and nutrition personal trainers, strength training and teens - Fitness Tips Building Muscle

Determination

Mark Twain: Inspirational Quotes on Determination
The miracle, or the power, that elevates the few is to be found in their industry, application, and perseverance under the prompting of a brave, determined spirit.

Richard Devos: Inspirational Quotes: Determination
The only thing that stands between a man and what he wants from life is often merely the will to try it and faith to believe it is possible.

Cecil B. De Mille: Inspirational Quotes: Determination
The person who makes a success of living is the one who sees his goal steadily and aims for it unswervingly. That is dedication.

Vince Lombardi: Inspirational Quotes: DeterminationThe price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand.

Helen Keller: Motivational Determination Quotations
While they were saying among themselves it cannot be done, it was done.

Aslan: Motivational Determination Quotations
Why? Why Not? Why Not You? Why Not Now?

Zig Ziglar: Motivational Determination Quotations
Will you look back on life and say, "I wish I had," or "I'm glad I did"?

HELP!!!!!!

I need some encouragement! I am stayin strong on my weight loss but I haven't been continuing to lose. I am having a hard time getting back on the wagon per say. I have worked out enough to stay even but I can't get back in the grove to lose more. I have alot more to lose to put me in a healthy range. I need some help!
I know some of you think I might be vein but I want to be healthy not skinny! I am looking at the big picture here. I want to be in the healthy picture here. So far my blood work says I am not as healthy as I could be. So I am hoping this blog might be what I need to get me there.
I talked to my doc last week and he says I am doing good. But He wants me to do better so I am trying to do better.
I would love to be a super skinny model but I am human and I know it is not going to happen but I would love if I can keep myself alive as long as I can so I can experience life to the fullest.
I guess what I am trying to say is I need some support right now.

Home...

Finally a weekend home. I Know I started this thing but i have to thank all of you for keeping it up! We have been going to my parents every weekend for that last month. the days home were spent getting organized for the next weekend away. I have been keeping more busy here and I am noticing a difference in how pliable my skin is. I like that. It how ever has been in the 100's here and a bit unbearable. My legs and feet swelled. It is the first time I have ever had that happen and I am sure it is because of my size!

We have been looking into elliptical with the tax rebate coming and I am a little weary of buying one. I am afraid at my size that I will be over whelmed by it! I am trying to figure out if a treadmill is the better option at this point! how ever on a rather disturbing note as we have been shopping for this objects of weight loss...I notice that allot have a weight limit of 350....so if you are fatter than that you are SOL and have no options! Isn't life a dandy???

any way, any hints, or any thoughts on the elliptical versus the treadmill dilemma???

seriously????

Ok so as hectic as life is I swear I should be skinny! I chase a very busy one and a half yr old along with his sister every where...but yet i still grow out while they grow up!

any way life has taken a Tasmanian whirl lately. I started up working with A.von and I want to give it a really go go so I have been talking to as many people as I can about it and I am glad I did. it has gotten me out of the house more and that means I am more active. Also we have been going down to my parents house to help them fix up there house in hopes of renting it. so I have been out lifting things and digging raking and all that good jazz while running after the sly little one yr old! I thin that should have made me loose 10 lbs alone I tell ya! LOL it has been busy!

so what we have been doing at our house to start the weight loss is to start being aware of what we are eating. We aren't cutting anything out per say but we are eating realistically. smaller portions. we have cute meal sizes in half or more. I my self have been trying to not skip meals that is my biggest down falls. I was eating once or twice a day and they would be these huge meals and them my body thinks I am starving. so I am try smaller meals with healthy protein filled snacks in between. Josh after doing this switched to diet drinks at work (he had to have his caffeine). that and a little more busy at work and he has shed some where between 65-70 lbs.

We haven't cut out all sweets I have noticed that when I feel that I am on a diet and there is something you cant have I feel trapped. So eating healthier and not oinking on foods like "junk food" is the key! I eat it slow and enjoy it and then be done with it! I had it and just a little! it seems to be working! I noticed that sense doing these we tend to eat less "junk food" then we use to!

we are also trying to listen to our bodies. and as soon as we feel content while we are eating we stop. We have noticed that when we listen to our bodies we eat far less and feel a million times better after eating. none of that bloated I can't move after you eat feeling. We have the energy to keep moving.

As for my kids in this equation I started picking up the hundred calorie packs. Not that I am trying to put my kids on a diet...they are growing. I just want them to learn good portion sizes and learn now to eat only what they need and not to pig out. To only eat when they are hungry and until they are full.

So far that is what we are doing. I stepped on the scale the other day...it was scary. I know where I was weighing the floor was not even but I thought I would try it any way...bad idea...it said I weighed 370. but that cant be right because all my clothes for 345 still fit the same way. I know that 30 more lbs would change that. But was a scary realization of what is to come if you don't change your lifestyle. I feel all I have left to do is add a lot more exercise into this routine. I have already noticed that the fat in my stomach is more ply able. That gives me hope. I take it was a good sign. I know that it is starting to break up I am feeling a lot more energy.

I Also have to apologise for starting this thing and then being MIA for a while. Life seems so crazy right now and I have been a bit busy. I do come on here and listen to what you all say and start to try to work your good advise into my life. thanks for being a great support system and I hope you all continue to come here and help give hints and tips!

Possitive Affirmations

1. I am a winner
2. I am the best friend that I have
3. I have accomplished harder challenges
4. I have the ability to reach my goals
5. I am a capable human being
6. I deserve to be fit
7. I am responsible only for my own feelings
8. I am a deserving human being
9. I love myself for who I am
10. I am able to handle any problem I face
11. I will be free of guilt today
12. Change is a blessing I am working toward
13. My goal is desirable and worth it to me
14. I am a rich treasure ready to be found
15. I have the right to feel the way that I do
16. My possibilities are endless
17. Belief in self is a step toward personal growth
18. There is nothing that I cannot handle
19. I am capable of achieving my weight goals
20. My family will benefit from my health changes

how's everyone doing?

Hey I haven't heard too much from anyone. I am still having a hard time getting over my hump. I am still maintaining but I want to be loosing. For the first time since January I had a horrible emotional eating day. I couldn't stop eating. I was so worried that I would gain but I didn't.

Adam had to have a tooth pulled and I made Rick go with him because I don't handle things like that very well. Anyway the whole time they were gone I was sick and nervous. Then when they got home I was feeling a little better until I decided to change the gauze from his mouth. I took the gauze out and I turned my back from him to throw it away and next thing you know adam passed out and was out for what seemed like forever his whole body looked like he was seizing. He bumped his head on something on his way down so he was not in good shape when he came to. I was so scared. He was miserable for hours. I felt horrible. Eventually by late afternoon he was perking up. Now you would never know that he had such a horrible day.

The whole day was so off for me. I still get sick when I think about him passing out. The thing that bothers me though is I went back to my old habits when the going got rough. I was hoping I was over the emotional eating thing. So I am feeling a little (okay alot) disappointed in myself. I don't want to be an emotional eater and I haven't been since I decided to make some changes to my lifestyle. I hope next time something emotional happens I don't do it again.

The things you learn!

Ok so I was watching a show the other day...sadly I cant remember what but the statement made on it surprised me. loosing 1 lbs takes 4 lbs of pressure off of your knees! I can only imagine how much better my legs would feel if I got off ten pounds!

I am so happy that you guys have been on here and keeping it up while I have been so busy and out of Town for the last 2 weeks. I was so happy to see you all trucking away! Thanks for being a great support and help!

I have been taking hints and tips and implementing them into my life and they are helping!

I just wanted to put a little something down today but I will take the time to write some of the stuff I learned in the next day or Two!

Plateaus....

I am not sure how to get over a plateau; I know that I have hit them while I was going to weight watchers and what I would do is try to change the way I was doing some things. change your food selections, or add another five ten minutes to your daily work out. Take a look at what you are eating and what you were eating and see if you are doing something different that may be you weren't doing or shouldn't be doing.

I think that any kind of change is going to make a difference, you just need to keep on keeping on even when it gets tough. I know that I dread getting on the scale every Saturday because I am deathly scared of that plateau that I know is going to happen sooner or later.

I am not an expert on dieting or anything but I think that if you look at what you were doing and what you are doing you mind figure out what it is that you need to do to get back on track. Good luck it is very frustrating but I know that you can get over it; I can't wait for the day that you tell us that you are no longer taking Insulin, that is going to be a happy day for you Melanie.

I just found this on line and it is good advice I will post some of it here.

Mix up your program:

By this I mean you may want to switch things around a bit. You may even want to modify your program. If you have been eating all protein, then you could try switching to salads or all vegetables for a couple days. You could even try switching to all carbohydrates for a few days. If you have been eating all carbs, then maybe switch to all protein for a while. You get the point, try to shake things up a bit and see if this helps or hurts.

Eat Healthier:

If you have been losing weight but not eating very healthfully, then maybe you should try to nourish you body. If you haven't been eating many calories or eating little or no vegetables, maybe try to get your body some extra nutrients. Try eating healthy foods and fats for a while. Your body may be missing something and this might be just the thing to get your through your plateau.

Start Exercising:

If you haven't already started an exercise regimen, then you should start. This can boost your weight loss immediately. Exercise and its benefits can range from losing weight to giving you a healthier heart. There are too many reasons not to exercise. If you have reached a plateau in your weight loss, then now is the best time to start exercising. Just get outside and walk for 20 minutes a day. If you can run then run. If you can only walk, then walk. I guarantee you that this will help you break through your plateau.

Go out and eat:

This also could be a good time to just go out and eat whatever you want. This can help you forget about dieting and weight loss for a while and just enjoy yourself. One care free day of eating is not going to sabotage your whole plan. Just eat whatever you want and forget about calories, carbs and fat for a day. This may be just what your mind and body need to get back on track and help you achieve success.

Debbie you asked the other day if Beef Jerkey was also another way to get protien, yes it is! Befor I had surgery I would use jerkey all the time for a good healthy snack when I needed more protiens. That and a 1/4 cup almonds would keeping me going. I hope that the information that I give you helps. I know that it has really helped me alot and I didn't know any of this stuff until I started working with Dr. Belnap.

Oh did I also mention how important water is to a healthy diet. It is so good for your body and you should be drinking at leat sixty four ounces a day and if you are working out you should be drinking more than that. If I happen to learn anything else or come across something that I think might be of help I will pass it along.

Have a wonderful night and good luck on your weight loss journey!
Ronda Gardner

question people

Okay so I was wondering if anyone has ever hit a plateau before. I think I have hit a plateau and I am wondering if anyone can give me some advice on how to get over it. I know everyone hits a plateau but I have never heard anyone say how they get over it. So if anyone could please give me some much needed advice I would appreciate it.

Thank you Thank you!!!

Just a Little Advice...

Let me give some advice, these are some things that I have learned since I had my Gastric Bypass. Proteins are very important you should concentrate on getting more proteins than carbohydrates. You don't want greasy fatty fried foods either, they are not good for you. I know that I was told that when I sit down to a meal to have a serving of proteins and a serving of vegetables, but if I can't eat much to eat the proteins and ignore the veggies. You want to eat your proteins not drink them because food sits in your stomach longer than protein drinks do and they will make it so you aren't as hungry.

Almonds are also good for filling a stomach that needs a little more between meals. I would use raw Almonds for snacks before I had surgery; I would chew on a small hand full between eight thirty in the morning and eleven to keep my stomach from growling, the when it came to eating lunch I wasn't as hungry and didn't need to eat as much. It works and it a really good snack; it will also control blood sugar levels. You can also eat roasted almonds; and Blue Diamond sells Salt and Vinegar Almonds and they are really yummy I love them.

Water and staying hydrated is very important! You want to drink things that are low in sugar and try to avoid carbonated drinks. Not that they are bad for you carbonation DOES NOT stretch your stomach like people say that it does. Well if you like Diet Sodas you can drink those; I was told to drink Crystal Light, Propel and stuff like that. Oh I have tried the new Gatorade G2 and it is really good, it has half the sugar and half the calories.

The last piece of advise I have is to exercise, exercise, exercise I have learned that it is so important. I know that since I joined Golds Gym and have started working out I feel so much better. I have more energy and it helps with the weight loss, which I am sure all of you know this. Water aerobics are a great for of exercise they kick your trash and the next day you are very soar.

I hope that the information I shared with every one will help you, I know that cutting my carbs and watching my proteins helped me loose forty two pounds before I had surgery. I always thought that diet wasn't good but after following the diet my self it works really good.

Good Luck to every one trying too loose weight!
Ronda Gardner

Workout day!

Well I was just looking at deb and josh's pictures wishing I would have taken some before shots so I could compare.

Okay today I worked my little tooshy off. I did 75 min on my bike and I lifted weights after that. I am not sure how long but I was pretty pooped when I was done. I was actually sweating. I don't sweat so that was a good workout to make me sweat. I have never been a huge sweater even when I do hikes in the middle of summer. I perspire. Rick sweats and it kindof grosses me out because it literally drips off of him.

As far as eating goes I usually always stay somewhere between 1300-1500 calories unless it is my free day and then I have what I want. I am still conservative on those free days but I do at least eat 1 meal that just horrible for me :)

Okay I will post tommorrow and let ya all know how my day went. We have plans for the zoo if the weather cooperates. So I should get a good walk in anyway.

The Scary truth...

Ok so here is a couple of pictures to show us at our biggest!

this one doesn't count for ME I am pregnant here But josh is at his biggest. He is 340 LBS. I weight 345LBS

This is where josh sits. He has lost about 65 lbs..

Front view he is still doing well!

This is me at my biggest and I think I am still pretty close to this. I haven't taken my weight in a while but i will try to do that soon.



this is my front view!
I am wanting to get down to about 185-190 range because I am Tall!

I just have to say!!!!!

For the first time in my life I am really committed to losing weight. I really want to make a lifestyle change that for #1 will make me healthier but#2 I want to be the person I really feel like I am. I have really struggled with my weight since I started with fertility treatments 10 years ago. I know I am done with having more kids since my health has declined in the last few years. But I am very excited to get healthier. I really don't care if I get down to a size 2 but I really care If am as healthy as I can be.

I know that most people care first and foremost about their weight. Most people that care about their weight are not out to be the thinnest people in the world. We just want to be healthy for our kids and grandkids to come.

I believe it is not about the pounds and more about our health. SO I challenge everyone to make a small effort. That small effort came make a huge difference in your overall health. I really feel that everyone can make even the smallest of effort. Even since I have cut my exercise down and have really watched my calories I have still lost weight.

I know anyone can do it. Even if it is slower than you want. It is still possible. I believe very strongly that being positive is the only way to achieve weight loss.

great idea!

I think this blog is a great Idea. I think people do tonz better with weight loss when they have loving support from friends and family.

Let's see things have gotten really hectic around here with sickness and trips and birthdays. So I haven't been as good as I have been when I started my weight loss but I am down 20 lbs since the third week of January so that is about 12 whole weeks. I am still proud of myself even if the the last 3 pounds have come off very slowly. I still haven't had any huge gains.

Okay So I am challenging everyone to join our little group and see if we can lose some serious weight.

The reason for the blog!

Josh and I have been talking about loosing weight now forever I swear. We would like to map our progress and not on our family site. So this is it, the official site for us to map the shedding of pounds and working out. I would love any tips and help you have and hey were all in the fight to be healthy right? So leave your comments and we will leave ours and pics and we will fight the battle together.


Thanks!