OK...so I want to officially thank my family and friends for not ever nominating me to be on TLC's "What Not to Wear!" I sincerely appreciate their restraint :-)
Seriously, my wardrobe leaves a lot to be desired. I wear a lot of black, and my clothes have always been loose and over-sized. I've never been one of those overweight people who is comfortable in form fitting clothes...I've gone way over to the other extreme.
So with 25 lbs. gone so far, clothes that were already loose to begin with are starting to become rather comical. It's time to dig out some of my older clothes and see if there's anything there that will fit. I really, really hate shopping, and I really don't want to spend the money on clothes that will only fit for a short time. So the next year or so is going to be very interesting. :-)
I also decided that when I pull out the old clothes, I'm getting rid of the things I'm wearing now. I'm not keeping them around for "what if." You know what I mean. What if I gain this weight back? That's not an option. It's not going to happen. So I'll donate pieces that are in decent shape, and throw away the rest. There is no going back because this is my life now.
Even though it's only 9:00, I'm really exhausted. I didn't sleep at all well last night...things are picking up at work and I feel the stress level rising. Kinda hard to shut my brain down. I need to figure out how to get a handle on that.
Aside from feeling rather sleep deprived, it was a pretty routine day for me. 1,345 calories and I'll jump on the bike when I'm done here. While some might find the word "routine" to be synonymous with 'boring," I'm actually finding comfort and security in the day-to-day.
There's not a lot of variety in what I'm eating, either. Eggs whites, string cheese, turkey, chicken, scallops, whole wheat pitas, fresh fruit, fresh veggies, and popcorn. Not all of this every day, of course, but those are the staples. And when I eat out, it's usually Wendy's chili and a baked potato for 500 calories. And lots and lots of water!
I don't like to have to think much about what I'm going to eat. Even when I was living like I didn't care if I lived or died, my diet was made up of the usual suspects. Not a lot of variety...just a lot of bad choices. I'm hoping at some point to develop a love for cooking. But for right now, I'll find comfort in my routine.
Well, I think I will take my exhausted self to the bike and work up a sweat, grab a shower, and see if I can do better in the sleep department than I did last night.
Good night, all! :-)
God bless...
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Rocked It!! (Day 48)
Hey Allan...pretty much rocked weigh-in day!! 3 more lbs. that will never be seen again! Woo hoo!
Day 48 = 25 lbs. less of me! That comes out to an average loss of slightly more than 1/2 lb. per day. I'll take that any day of the week and twice on Sunday!
I know there is a plateau somewhere in my future. And when that happens, that's when I have to remind myself that what the scale says simply doesn't matter. I have to sweetly whisper in my own ear that the self-discipline I've developed, and the loving way that I'm now treating myself, are not temporary actions based on the whim of circumstance. That's when I have to say, "scale be damned" and just keep on keeping on! Actually, when the plateau hits, I will seriously consider weighing every two weeks instead of every week.
But for now, I will think no further about the "p" word, but will celebrate these good results and will continue to sit here with this big, stupid grin on my face. ;-)
So I was thinking about something today. Bill and I are big indy car fans. And we have this goal to visit all the racetracks on the IZOD indy car schedule. It's a very achievable goal because Bill works for FedEx and we can fly very, very reasonably...both nationally and internationally. That will come in very handy for the races in Brazil, Japan, and Canada. So as long was we live long enough and he keeps working, we should be able to do this! :-)
So far we've been to races at Chicagoland Speedway, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. And this weekend we're going to the race at the Kentucky Speedway in Sparta, Kentucky.
The reason I bring this up is that last year at Mid-Ohio, we didn't time the drive very well. By the time we got there, there was a long line of cars waiting to get into the parking lots.
What you need to know about Mid-Ohio is that it's a road course (not an oval track.) This means that we didn't have tickets for seats...you just enter the gate and find somewhere to sit along the track. Well, because we were so late, we had to park forever away. So after walking for quite a ways, we found out that we were at the wrong gate. So we trudged back to the car and I was really suffering. When we found somewhere else to park, it meant walking forever again and I just couldn't do it.
I told Bill to go find a place to sit and I'd wait for him in the car. He was having none of that. We'd either watch the race together, or we'd go home together. He was so sweet and I felt so horrible about ruining our day. We decided to drive around one more time and God took pity on me and we found a spot along a side road. We just had to climb a small hill and ended up with a great spot on the grass at one of the busiest curves. It ended up being a great race and a great day.
As I said, this weekend we're going to Kentucky Speedway, which is an oval track. We'll time our trip better, and I know I'll be able to handle the walk this time. Next year, our plan is to hit the race at the Barber Motorsports track in Birmingham, Alabama, and also the race in Watkins Glen, New York. Both of these are road courses, and I will promise you this right now. I will not have to worry about being unable to walk to our seats. That will never happen again!!
As always, thanks to my family, friends, and fellow bloggers. I appreciate you all so very much.
Good night and God bless...
Day 48 = 25 lbs. less of me! That comes out to an average loss of slightly more than 1/2 lb. per day. I'll take that any day of the week and twice on Sunday!
I know there is a plateau somewhere in my future. And when that happens, that's when I have to remind myself that what the scale says simply doesn't matter. I have to sweetly whisper in my own ear that the self-discipline I've developed, and the loving way that I'm now treating myself, are not temporary actions based on the whim of circumstance. That's when I have to say, "scale be damned" and just keep on keeping on! Actually, when the plateau hits, I will seriously consider weighing every two weeks instead of every week.
But for now, I will think no further about the "p" word, but will celebrate these good results and will continue to sit here with this big, stupid grin on my face. ;-)
So I was thinking about something today. Bill and I are big indy car fans. And we have this goal to visit all the racetracks on the IZOD indy car schedule. It's a very achievable goal because Bill works for FedEx and we can fly very, very reasonably...both nationally and internationally. That will come in very handy for the races in Brazil, Japan, and Canada. So as long was we live long enough and he keeps working, we should be able to do this! :-)
So far we've been to races at Chicagoland Speedway, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. And this weekend we're going to the race at the Kentucky Speedway in Sparta, Kentucky.
The reason I bring this up is that last year at Mid-Ohio, we didn't time the drive very well. By the time we got there, there was a long line of cars waiting to get into the parking lots.
What you need to know about Mid-Ohio is that it's a road course (not an oval track.) This means that we didn't have tickets for seats...you just enter the gate and find somewhere to sit along the track. Well, because we were so late, we had to park forever away. So after walking for quite a ways, we found out that we were at the wrong gate. So we trudged back to the car and I was really suffering. When we found somewhere else to park, it meant walking forever again and I just couldn't do it.
I told Bill to go find a place to sit and I'd wait for him in the car. He was having none of that. We'd either watch the race together, or we'd go home together. He was so sweet and I felt so horrible about ruining our day. We decided to drive around one more time and God took pity on me and we found a spot along a side road. We just had to climb a small hill and ended up with a great spot on the grass at one of the busiest curves. It ended up being a great race and a great day.
As I said, this weekend we're going to Kentucky Speedway, which is an oval track. We'll time our trip better, and I know I'll be able to handle the walk this time. Next year, our plan is to hit the race at the Barber Motorsports track in Birmingham, Alabama, and also the race in Watkins Glen, New York. Both of these are road courses, and I will promise you this right now. I will not have to worry about being unable to walk to our seats. That will never happen again!!
As always, thanks to my family, friends, and fellow bloggers. I appreciate you all so very much.
Good night and God bless...
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Happy Birthday, Nora! (Day 47)
Today was an absolutely fantastic day! We had so much fun celebrating baby Nora's first birthday. Bill and I were out of the house around 10:00 AM to bring some tables and chairs over to Becca and Adam's condo clubhouse where the party was scheduled to kick-off at 3:00 PM.
We had lots of setting up and decorating to do, and then had just enough time to run home, grab some lunch, shower, get ready, and then pick up the food trays for the party.
Nora was an absolute angel! :-) She napped from 12:30 to 2:30, and was then happy and going strong until we finished cleaning up at around 7:00. I don't think she had even one crabby moment!
The array of food was just beautiful...fruit, vegetable, cheese, and club sandwich trays, and also deviled eggs, veggie pizza, chips, dip, and salsa. Oh yeah...and some really adorable cupcakes & cookies!
I had no problem sticking with the veggies and fruit. Then I had a turkey sandwich when I got home. 1,200 calories for the very enjoyable day. I didn't ride the bike, but I burned alot of calories with the party preparations and cleanup. Tomorrow's weigh-day and whatever that scale says, I know I had a great week!
Well, nothing more to say about this wonderful day...because these pictures are worth a thousand words!!
Good night and God bless...
We had lots of setting up and decorating to do, and then had just enough time to run home, grab some lunch, shower, get ready, and then pick up the food trays for the party.
Nora was an absolute angel! :-) She napped from 12:30 to 2:30, and was then happy and going strong until we finished cleaning up at around 7:00. I don't think she had even one crabby moment!
The array of food was just beautiful...fruit, vegetable, cheese, and club sandwich trays, and also deviled eggs, veggie pizza, chips, dip, and salsa. Oh yeah...and some really adorable cupcakes & cookies!
I had no problem sticking with the veggies and fruit. Then I had a turkey sandwich when I got home. 1,200 calories for the very enjoyable day. I didn't ride the bike, but I burned alot of calories with the party preparations and cleanup. Tomorrow's weigh-day and whatever that scale says, I know I had a great week!
Well, nothing more to say about this wonderful day...because these pictures are worth a thousand words!!
Good night and God bless...
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Saturday, August 28, 2010
Getting it in Gear! (Day 46)
OK...so here's my insight for the day. I seem to be having a much easier time not doing something than I am in doing something.
For whatever reason, I have had zero difficulty refraining from eating things I shouldn't eat. Since day 1, I've had virtually no problem staying under 1,500 calories for the day, and have often been well under that. I have no desire to eat things that would normally be a HUGE temptation. Now I realize that this could change at any minute, but so far, this whole eating healthy thing hasn't been a great struggle.
Believe me, this isn't at all typical of my past experience. Tempting, fattening, artery-clogging food would always call my name in a sexy, enticing, Pierce Brosnan kind of voice. I had little power to resist, and it wouldn't be very long before I'd give in and give up.
But this time around, the desire for things that would normally sabotage any hope of success is pretty much non-existent.
So, thankfully, not doing something (namely overeating) hasn't been a problem.
What is more of a struggle is this whole exercise thing. To exercise means to do something. It's not refraining from something, like saying "no" to the birthday cake or chunky monkey ice cream. It's saying "yes" to something. It's saying yes to getting up and putting on my shoes and moving. Much more difficult for me.
I'm getting way more exercise today than I was 45 days ago. I'm walking more and I'm riding my bike every day. But I know I could be doing much more. So that's what I'm going to work on next week. I need to come up with a plan and try and make some progress every day.
So that's it for my insight. Tomorrow we celebrate baby Nora's first birthday, and it's going to be so fun. Stay tuned for pictures...they're going to be adorable!
Hope it's been a fantastic Saturday, and that joy comes in the morning!
God bless...
For whatever reason, I have had zero difficulty refraining from eating things I shouldn't eat. Since day 1, I've had virtually no problem staying under 1,500 calories for the day, and have often been well under that. I have no desire to eat things that would normally be a HUGE temptation. Now I realize that this could change at any minute, but so far, this whole eating healthy thing hasn't been a great struggle.
Believe me, this isn't at all typical of my past experience. Tempting, fattening, artery-clogging food would always call my name in a sexy, enticing, Pierce Brosnan kind of voice. I had little power to resist, and it wouldn't be very long before I'd give in and give up.
But this time around, the desire for things that would normally sabotage any hope of success is pretty much non-existent.
So, thankfully, not doing something (namely overeating) hasn't been a problem.
What is more of a struggle is this whole exercise thing. To exercise means to do something. It's not refraining from something, like saying "no" to the birthday cake or chunky monkey ice cream. It's saying "yes" to something. It's saying yes to getting up and putting on my shoes and moving. Much more difficult for me.
I'm getting way more exercise today than I was 45 days ago. I'm walking more and I'm riding my bike every day. But I know I could be doing much more. So that's what I'm going to work on next week. I need to come up with a plan and try and make some progress every day.
So that's it for my insight. Tomorrow we celebrate baby Nora's first birthday, and it's going to be so fun. Stay tuned for pictures...they're going to be adorable!
Hope it's been a fantastic Saturday, and that joy comes in the morning!
God bless...
Friday, August 27, 2010
Counting My Blessings on Day 45
I have to admit that I'm really digging this discipline stuff. I have come to really like this feeling of control that I'm developing. I don't think my life is any different than it was before I decided that enough was enough. I think all the emotions and triggers and challenges are still there. The difference now is in how I choose to deal with them.
My daughter posted a quote on her facebook page recently by Regina Brett. Regina said, "If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back." There's a lot of truth right there, at least in my life. When I look at my life, the fact is that I'm pretty freakin' blessed. Things aren't perfect, of course, but I would definitely grab my own problems back.
I've got no excuses for where I am today physically. Where I am is a result of laziness, and a lack of self-control, and a desire for instant gratification, and a colossal disregard for those things that I knew would be good for me.
I never really recognized or acknowledged this before. I had all kinds of excuses and rationalizations. I'm sure I wasn't fooling anyone but myself. And the truth is that I only see it now because I'm looking at it from a different place.
But don't get me wrong. I'm not beating myself up over this. I can't go back and change things, and probably wouldn't even if I could. Because every minute of my life up until this point has been one huge classroom and these lessons have been well-learned.
Every single day that God graciously grants us is an opportunity for us to decide how we choose to live. I am discovering that I am fully capable of making choices that are really good for me. I believe He's always been there ready to help me...He just wanted me to take the first step and really mean it. Well, I took it, and I really meant it. And now Philippians 4:13 is a living, breathing reality in my life.
And here's one more thing that I know for certain. If I can do this, anybody can! If you're out there struggling and thinking you're not up to this, you're wrong. You might have to battle with yourself, but you can win. And the best part is that if you can get your head on straight, it just gets easier and easier.
All this stuff that came together for me today helped me keep it at 1,100 calories, and drove me to get out and walk, ride that bike, and drink water like I oughta!
Life is good and I'm thankful for it...and I'm thankful for you, my friends!
God bless...
My daughter posted a quote on her facebook page recently by Regina Brett. Regina said, "If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back." There's a lot of truth right there, at least in my life. When I look at my life, the fact is that I'm pretty freakin' blessed. Things aren't perfect, of course, but I would definitely grab my own problems back.
I've got no excuses for where I am today physically. Where I am is a result of laziness, and a lack of self-control, and a desire for instant gratification, and a colossal disregard for those things that I knew would be good for me.
I never really recognized or acknowledged this before. I had all kinds of excuses and rationalizations. I'm sure I wasn't fooling anyone but myself. And the truth is that I only see it now because I'm looking at it from a different place.
But don't get me wrong. I'm not beating myself up over this. I can't go back and change things, and probably wouldn't even if I could. Because every minute of my life up until this point has been one huge classroom and these lessons have been well-learned.
Every single day that God graciously grants us is an opportunity for us to decide how we choose to live. I am discovering that I am fully capable of making choices that are really good for me. I believe He's always been there ready to help me...He just wanted me to take the first step and really mean it. Well, I took it, and I really meant it. And now Philippians 4:13 is a living, breathing reality in my life.
And here's one more thing that I know for certain. If I can do this, anybody can! If you're out there struggling and thinking you're not up to this, you're wrong. You might have to battle with yourself, but you can win. And the best part is that if you can get your head on straight, it just gets easier and easier.
All this stuff that came together for me today helped me keep it at 1,100 calories, and drove me to get out and walk, ride that bike, and drink water like I oughta!
Life is good and I'm thankful for it...and I'm thankful for you, my friends!
God bless...
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Miles to Go... (Day 44)
Wow! It's like 10:00 and I still have miles to go before I sleep! This whole vacation thing didn't work out so well for me this week. I could potentially be as frustrated today as I was yesterday, but I'm just gonna roll with the punches. And try and make some changes at work so that this doesn't happen next time.
We did take time out today for FFN (family fun night) at Bree and Jim's. Had a nice, relaxing evening with Bree and Becca's families. And today was special because it was Nora June Ader's first birthday!! This granddaughter is pretty darn special, and Becca and Adam are doing a fantastic job with her! :-)
We'll be celebrating this Sunday with an adorable lady bug birthday party. I'm sure I'll have really cute pictures to post on Monday.
Also this week, grandsons Nick and Drew had their first day of school. Nick is in 7th grade, and Drew is in 5th grade. We're praying that they have a really great and productive year! These two are the sweetest, most genuine kids around. We're so proud of them!
I did really good today food-wise. 1,252 calories and lots of water. Did some walking and will jump on the bike if it doesn't get too much later. I cheated and weighed myself this morning. Not really sure why. I've been sticking to Mondays as my weigh-in day. Anyway, I lost 2 more lbs. since Monday, so I'm pretty thrilled with that. I'm gonna try not to do that again, though...I definitely don't want to get obsessed with the scale. Just want to keep livin' life like I know I'm supposed to be livin' it! :-)
Hope this Thursday evening finds you all in a good place, and that tomorrow brings joy, love, and good choices!
God bless...
We did take time out today for FFN (family fun night) at Bree and Jim's. Had a nice, relaxing evening with Bree and Becca's families. And today was special because it was Nora June Ader's first birthday!! This granddaughter is pretty darn special, and Becca and Adam are doing a fantastic job with her! :-)
We'll be celebrating this Sunday with an adorable lady bug birthday party. I'm sure I'll have really cute pictures to post on Monday.Also this week, grandsons Nick and Drew had their first day of school. Nick is in 7th grade, and Drew is in 5th grade. We're praying that they have a really great and productive year! These two are the sweetest, most genuine kids around. We're so proud of them!
I did really good today food-wise. 1,252 calories and lots of water. Did some walking and will jump on the bike if it doesn't get too much later. I cheated and weighed myself this morning. Not really sure why. I've been sticking to Mondays as my weigh-in day. Anyway, I lost 2 more lbs. since Monday, so I'm pretty thrilled with that. I'm gonna try not to do that again, though...I definitely don't want to get obsessed with the scale. Just want to keep livin' life like I know I'm supposed to be livin' it! :-)
Hope this Thursday evening finds you all in a good place, and that tomorrow brings joy, love, and good choices!
God bless...
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
All's Well Even When It's Not (Day 43)
Kind of a frustrating day today. Ended up spending way too much time on work-related issues. It just ended up not being the best week to be away, and I guess I didn't prepare well enough for it. My fault. Will have to do a better job of this when Bill and I go to my nephew's wedding in Las Vegas in October because I'll definitely be out of touch then. Oh well.
I'm glad that the frustration didn't wreck havoc with my resolve. Almost had the opposite effect. I was so caught up in things that I didn't think too much about eating. I'm leaving nearly 400 calories in the bank and don't really feel like eating anything more.
We had planned to go see a movie tonight so we did. We went to see The Expendables with Sylvester Stallone, and can I just say, DON'T!! Wow! Very, very, violent. And I can't remember ever seeing a movie that had dialogue that was as lame as this one. Bill said it's a shame that we'll never be able to get those two hours of our lives back. It was almost painful! I almost want you guys to see it so we can talk about how bad it was! :-)
Anyway, this is one of those days that I'm glad is over! I did ride the bike for 20 minutes tonight...I went faster this session for less time.
And I did learn some things today. I learned that these good habits that I'm developing are fairly well ingrained. In the past, this kind of day would drive me to stupidity...today it didn't do that. That's a good thing!
Tonight, I will pray for us, my friends. For good days. And for His peace and strength when the days are not so good.
God bless...
I'm glad that the frustration didn't wreck havoc with my resolve. Almost had the opposite effect. I was so caught up in things that I didn't think too much about eating. I'm leaving nearly 400 calories in the bank and don't really feel like eating anything more.
We had planned to go see a movie tonight so we did. We went to see The Expendables with Sylvester Stallone, and can I just say, DON'T!! Wow! Very, very, violent. And I can't remember ever seeing a movie that had dialogue that was as lame as this one. Bill said it's a shame that we'll never be able to get those two hours of our lives back. It was almost painful! I almost want you guys to see it so we can talk about how bad it was! :-)
Anyway, this is one of those days that I'm glad is over! I did ride the bike for 20 minutes tonight...I went faster this session for less time.
And I did learn some things today. I learned that these good habits that I'm developing are fairly well ingrained. In the past, this kind of day would drive me to stupidity...today it didn't do that. That's a good thing!
Tonight, I will pray for us, my friends. For good days. And for His peace and strength when the days are not so good.
God bless...
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
A Good Kind of Exhausted (Day 42)
I am so tired, so I'm going to make this post short and to the point. :-)
It's been a good, productive day. We decided we would do some needed work around the house on the front end of our vacation, and then relax and have fun at the end of the week. So Bill changed the oil in both cars and cleaned out the garage. For me, this is the weekend that we distribute the September issue of our church newsletter, so I needed to spend some time today on that. But I also took on our laundry room, which was a complete disaster area. I didn't even ride the bike today because cleaning out that room was plenty of exercise...believe me! And I didn't even finish...I'll pick it up again in the morning.
I like this process of cleaning and organizing. I feel like so many aspects of my life are coming into control and balance. It's funny how making a commitment and exercising discipline in one area bleeds over to other areas of my life. I like the changes I'm seeing.
And I so appreciate the support and encouragement I'm getting from so many of you...and especially from my husband. He really is my best friend and I love that! I love that he loves me the way I am...the way I am today. Not that he won't be totally thrilled with the new and improved me. He definitely will. But we've been through so much together and have become closer than I ever thought possible. He and my kids and my grandkids are truly the very best part of me. I'm feeling very grateful and blessed right now.
Anyway, all in all, a good day. I also did fine with my calories...finished the day at 1,450, and drank tons of water!
Thanks for reading, good night, and God bless...
It's been a good, productive day. We decided we would do some needed work around the house on the front end of our vacation, and then relax and have fun at the end of the week. So Bill changed the oil in both cars and cleaned out the garage. For me, this is the weekend that we distribute the September issue of our church newsletter, so I needed to spend some time today on that. But I also took on our laundry room, which was a complete disaster area. I didn't even ride the bike today because cleaning out that room was plenty of exercise...believe me! And I didn't even finish...I'll pick it up again in the morning.
I like this process of cleaning and organizing. I feel like so many aspects of my life are coming into control and balance. It's funny how making a commitment and exercising discipline in one area bleeds over to other areas of my life. I like the changes I'm seeing.
And I so appreciate the support and encouragement I'm getting from so many of you...and especially from my husband. He really is my best friend and I love that! I love that he loves me the way I am...the way I am today. Not that he won't be totally thrilled with the new and improved me. He definitely will. But we've been through so much together and have become closer than I ever thought possible. He and my kids and my grandkids are truly the very best part of me. I'm feeling very grateful and blessed right now.
Anyway, all in all, a good day. I also did fine with my calories...finished the day at 1,450, and drank tons of water!
Thanks for reading, good night, and God bless...
Monday, August 23, 2010
Oh Yeah!! (Day 41)
Man...I could really get used to this feeling!! I better get used to it because this is my life now!
Why have I never done this before? When I think of all the years I've lost, I seriously want to cry! All the things I haven't been able to do and enjoy. All the pretty clothes, and sports, and hikes. All the embarrassment and humiliation. All the time that I'll never get back...it almost feels like a death.
I have no idea why it took me so long to get to this place. But though I may never know why, I'm here now. I feel in control of myself. I feel SO MUCH BETTER! So many things are falling into place because I'm really taking care of myself for the first time in a very long time. This is so freaking good!!
It's been a really good day. Bill had his CT scans, and we'll have to wait until his follow-up appointment on September 2nd to see what's going on. This is all precautionary because of family history, and I really believe that everything is fine. This guy of mine is indestructible! :-)
We had a GREAT dinner today! We had lobster tail, scallops, and spaghetti squash! I made some serious brownie points with Bill because he adores seafood, especially lobster. And that squash is the coolest thing ever!! We both thought it was fantastic! Here's the recipe I used, and the picture of our meal is below. 430 delicious calories, and a total today of 1,100.
I also did 30 minutes on the bike, and a bunch of walking with errands we had to run. I think I want to start adding some toning exercises. I'm already noticing loose skin issues in my belly area.
I guess that's the kind of thing that happens when you lose 4.5 MORE LBS!!! Yep...the scale was my friend this morning, bringing my total loss to 22 lbs.
I know that tomorrow could very well be different. I don't want to get so over confident that I let my guard down. But I've really come to believe that this whole issue of overeating and our relationship with food is predominantly in our heads.
We know how we should treat our bodies. We are learning about good, nutritious food choices. We know that we are healthier when we exercise and move.
Because we KNOW this, it then becomes a matter of living out those things that we know to be true. When that voice inside our heads tells us to indulge in things that are clearly bad for us, that's when we have to dig deep and choose life. That's when we have to acknowledge that the voice telling us to do self-destructive things IS NOT OUR FRIEND!
The voice that tells us to love ourselves and love each other...THAT'S the voice we listen to. Let's do this together!
God bless.
Why have I never done this before? When I think of all the years I've lost, I seriously want to cry! All the things I haven't been able to do and enjoy. All the pretty clothes, and sports, and hikes. All the embarrassment and humiliation. All the time that I'll never get back...it almost feels like a death.
I have no idea why it took me so long to get to this place. But though I may never know why, I'm here now. I feel in control of myself. I feel SO MUCH BETTER! So many things are falling into place because I'm really taking care of myself for the first time in a very long time. This is so freaking good!!
It's been a really good day. Bill had his CT scans, and we'll have to wait until his follow-up appointment on September 2nd to see what's going on. This is all precautionary because of family history, and I really believe that everything is fine. This guy of mine is indestructible! :-)
We had a GREAT dinner today! We had lobster tail, scallops, and spaghetti squash! I made some serious brownie points with Bill because he adores seafood, especially lobster. And that squash is the coolest thing ever!! We both thought it was fantastic! Here's the recipe I used, and the picture of our meal is below. 430 delicious calories, and a total today of 1,100.
I guess that's the kind of thing that happens when you lose 4.5 MORE LBS!!! Yep...the scale was my friend this morning, bringing my total loss to 22 lbs.
I know that tomorrow could very well be different. I don't want to get so over confident that I let my guard down. But I've really come to believe that this whole issue of overeating and our relationship with food is predominantly in our heads.
We know how we should treat our bodies. We are learning about good, nutritious food choices. We know that we are healthier when we exercise and move.
Because we KNOW this, it then becomes a matter of living out those things that we know to be true. When that voice inside our heads tells us to indulge in things that are clearly bad for us, that's when we have to dig deep and choose life. That's when we have to acknowledge that the voice telling us to do self-destructive things IS NOT OUR FRIEND!
The voice that tells us to love ourselves and love each other...THAT'S the voice we listen to. Let's do this together!
God bless.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Day 40 is in the Book!
It was a totally lazy day for us. I worked on the computer and we caught up on our recorded TV for hours. Finally at around 4:00 in the afternoon, I turned off the TV and told Bill that we NEEDED to get out of the house for a while and get our grocery shopping done!
We went out armed with our shopping list and had a really enjoyable time together. I'm excited about making a spaghetti squash dish this week. Got the idea from Amy's blog and I can't wait to make it. If it turns out well, I'll post the recipe and a picture later. We also went to the deli section and I picked up some low sodium oven roasted turkey. It was quite a bit more expensive than other turkey lunchmeat, but I felt it was worth it to lose the sodium.
Today was kind of a snacking day for me. I ended up at 1,372 calories for the day, and my menu was made up of scrambled eggs, string cheese, fruit, popcorn, a turkey pita sandwich with tomato, and Taco Bell for dinner. It was a weird but delicious day!
For our shopping trip, we went to Aldi, but then wanted to also stop at Wal-Mart. We parked close to Aldi, and after we put the groceries in the car, Bill asked if I wanted to walk across the large lot to Wal-Mart rather than drive to a closer spot. He's been a really fantastic support for me throughout this process. So we walked to and from the car, and quite a bit inside the store, as well. That felt really good after all the sitting around we did earlier in the day.
So it was a great day with my food, and YES...I did 30 minutes (nearly 14 miles) on the bike!!! The last three minutes were really tough, but there was no way I was quitting!
Tomorrow is weigh day and I'm going to be pleased with whatever that scale says because I had a really consistent and committed week. I can't wait to see what it says!
Tomorrow is also the day that Bill is getting his CT scans, so there will be alot of praying about that, for sure! He's also on vacation from both of his jobs this week, and while I've got some things I have to get done, I'm going to be working from home so I'm really excited about that, as well!
Hope you've all had a very enjoyable weekend, and that the coming week holds great surprises and success for us all!
God bless...
We went out armed with our shopping list and had a really enjoyable time together. I'm excited about making a spaghetti squash dish this week. Got the idea from Amy's blog and I can't wait to make it. If it turns out well, I'll post the recipe and a picture later. We also went to the deli section and I picked up some low sodium oven roasted turkey. It was quite a bit more expensive than other turkey lunchmeat, but I felt it was worth it to lose the sodium.
Today was kind of a snacking day for me. I ended up at 1,372 calories for the day, and my menu was made up of scrambled eggs, string cheese, fruit, popcorn, a turkey pita sandwich with tomato, and Taco Bell for dinner. It was a weird but delicious day!
For our shopping trip, we went to Aldi, but then wanted to also stop at Wal-Mart. We parked close to Aldi, and after we put the groceries in the car, Bill asked if I wanted to walk across the large lot to Wal-Mart rather than drive to a closer spot. He's been a really fantastic support for me throughout this process. So we walked to and from the car, and quite a bit inside the store, as well. That felt really good after all the sitting around we did earlier in the day.
So it was a great day with my food, and YES...I did 30 minutes (nearly 14 miles) on the bike!!! The last three minutes were really tough, but there was no way I was quitting!
Tomorrow is weigh day and I'm going to be pleased with whatever that scale says because I had a really consistent and committed week. I can't wait to see what it says!
Tomorrow is also the day that Bill is getting his CT scans, so there will be alot of praying about that, for sure! He's also on vacation from both of his jobs this week, and while I've got some things I have to get done, I'm going to be working from home so I'm really excited about that, as well!
Hope you've all had a very enjoyable weekend, and that the coming week holds great surprises and success for us all!
God bless...
Saturday, August 21, 2010
What a Great Celebration!! (Day 39)
Saturday evening finds me totally exhausted!! It's been a very long, but fantastic day. Donna's party was so much fun! How wonderful for us all to celebrate this birthday milestone that we never thought she'd see! There were so many people there helping her celebrate, and I feel like I've been talking non-stop for hours. I wonder how many calories you burn up when you're being a motor-mouth!
I did a great job with my calories today. I had a chicken breast and veggies at the party, and then had some string cheese when I got home. I'm at 1,350 for the day, and it wasn't even difficult to skip the cake. :-) My strategy for this party was to avoid hanging out around the food tables. I got my chicken and veggies, and then avoided that part of the room for the rest of the party. Worked like a charm!
The only thing I feel a little bad about is that it's 10:15 and I really can't face the bike right now. I'm just ready to fall into bed. I think I'll ride it in the morning, and then again at night to make up for missing. I'm shooting for 30 minutes tomorrow at one time and I won't take no for an answer!
So it's off to bed. Hope you've all had a great Saturday, filled with joy and great success. And if there have been struggles and stumbles today, that's OK because each day offers the opportunity for a fresh start. I know I'm going to stumble at some point, and that's not a problem as long as I don't let that become an excuse to quit.
Quitting is NOT an option!!
God bless...
I did a great job with my calories today. I had a chicken breast and veggies at the party, and then had some string cheese when I got home. I'm at 1,350 for the day, and it wasn't even difficult to skip the cake. :-) My strategy for this party was to avoid hanging out around the food tables. I got my chicken and veggies, and then avoided that part of the room for the rest of the party. Worked like a charm!
The only thing I feel a little bad about is that it's 10:15 and I really can't face the bike right now. I'm just ready to fall into bed. I think I'll ride it in the morning, and then again at night to make up for missing. I'm shooting for 30 minutes tomorrow at one time and I won't take no for an answer!
So it's off to bed. Hope you've all had a great Saturday, filled with joy and great success. And if there have been struggles and stumbles today, that's OK because each day offers the opportunity for a fresh start. I know I'm going to stumble at some point, and that's not a problem as long as I don't let that become an excuse to quit.
Quitting is NOT an option!!
God bless...
Friday, August 20, 2010
Everybody's Working for the Weekend! (Day 38)
Day 38 finds me looking forward to the weekend.
I have a very good friend named Donna. We've been close since our children were small. Around 5 years ago, Donna was diagnosed with a grade IV neuroblastomo...a particularly evil kind of brain tumor. It comes with a horrible prognosis. She's had two surgeries, radiation, chemo, and clinical trials. A couple years ago, the tumor came back and was inoperable.
She started to go downhill quickly, and her friends had to take turns being with her during the day while her husband worked. We set up a schedule and we helped her with her most basic needs. At that time, the doctors threw up a hail mary and tried a new protocol of radiation that was based on scorpion venom. I'm not sure if the scorpion venom worked, or if it was all the prayers that bombarded God on her behalf, or if God used the bug juice, but Donna started to improve. And today, she's doing fantastic!! She has an MRI every few months, and they've all been completely clean. She has a vision deficit on the left side as a result of the position of the tumor, but other than that, she's back to teaching 2nd grade and living large!
I admire and love Donna so much. She's always taken care of herself...she eats right and is totally committed to exercise. Always has been. She just did a 5K to benefit brain tumor research! She has always had great faith, and never asked, "why me?" Her question was always, "why not me?" She fought cancer hard, with commitment, dedication, ferocity, faith, and pure courage.
Donna's going to turn 50 tomorrow. She's not really a birthday-celebrating kind of girl, but this is a birthday that we never thought she'd see. And we are going to party!!!
I bring this up because Donna has set such a good example for me. She was in an all-out battle for her life and she met it head-on with all she had. And that's how I want to approach getting rid of this extra weight. It might actually be life and death, now that I think of it. I don't want to ever compromise on this...I want to be steadfast in this quest for a healthy relationship with food and exercise. I want to show courage, and strength, and resolve.
And so to celebrate tomorrow with Donna, I'm definitely saying "no" to the cake! :-)
By the way, 1300 calories today and 25 minutes on the bike!! Ooo Rah!
To my fellow travelers, let's have a good weekend! Let's make good choices, let's move, let's love, and let's LIVE!!
God bless...
I have a very good friend named Donna. We've been close since our children were small. Around 5 years ago, Donna was diagnosed with a grade IV neuroblastomo...a particularly evil kind of brain tumor. It comes with a horrible prognosis. She's had two surgeries, radiation, chemo, and clinical trials. A couple years ago, the tumor came back and was inoperable.
She started to go downhill quickly, and her friends had to take turns being with her during the day while her husband worked. We set up a schedule and we helped her with her most basic needs. At that time, the doctors threw up a hail mary and tried a new protocol of radiation that was based on scorpion venom. I'm not sure if the scorpion venom worked, or if it was all the prayers that bombarded God on her behalf, or if God used the bug juice, but Donna started to improve. And today, she's doing fantastic!! She has an MRI every few months, and they've all been completely clean. She has a vision deficit on the left side as a result of the position of the tumor, but other than that, she's back to teaching 2nd grade and living large!
I admire and love Donna so much. She's always taken care of herself...she eats right and is totally committed to exercise. Always has been. She just did a 5K to benefit brain tumor research! She has always had great faith, and never asked, "why me?" Her question was always, "why not me?" She fought cancer hard, with commitment, dedication, ferocity, faith, and pure courage.
Donna's going to turn 50 tomorrow. She's not really a birthday-celebrating kind of girl, but this is a birthday that we never thought she'd see. And we are going to party!!!
I bring this up because Donna has set such a good example for me. She was in an all-out battle for her life and she met it head-on with all she had. And that's how I want to approach getting rid of this extra weight. It might actually be life and death, now that I think of it. I don't want to ever compromise on this...I want to be steadfast in this quest for a healthy relationship with food and exercise. I want to show courage, and strength, and resolve.
And so to celebrate tomorrow with Donna, I'm definitely saying "no" to the cake! :-)
By the way, 1300 calories today and 25 minutes on the bike!! Ooo Rah!
To my fellow travelers, let's have a good weekend! Let's make good choices, let's move, let's love, and let's LIVE!!
God bless...
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Anchors Aweigh! (Day 37)
I have to tell you that it is extremely satisfying to have made it through another day with my commitment intact. I feel like I'm being kinda of boring here. Like it would be more interesting if today was full of drama and cliffhangers. But that wasn't the case.
I'm a couple hundred calories under for the day, and I just rode my bike for 22 minutes! I think I'm still on track for doing 30 by Sunday and that's awesome!!
I think the fact that we're coming out of the summer slowdown at work and are now gearing up for fall is very timely for me. I'm so busy during the day that there isn't time to think about food. I had a chicken breast, green beans, and plum for lunch and then didn't think about food again until I got home. Then it was scallops, more green beans, and wheat pita bread for dinner.
Still drinking lots of water, and I'm walking more every day. I know that it's real easy to develop bad habits, but it seems like 37 days of living a good healthy routine is enough time for these good habits to kick in and feel comfortable. Not that I'm out of danger for a relapse, but I continue to feel very much in control.
Oh yeah...I did decide today what my anchors would be. If you remember, I got the idea from Cathy who talked about this tool that they use in weight watchers. You're supposed to identify something tangible that you can look at or hold on to that will remind you of the commitment you've made and help you stay the course.
You can see below the two items I'll be using for my anchors...and yes...they are actually anchors! I love the symbolism. My sister gave me the idea, and Allison suggested the necklace below. Just perfect. The heart represents my family, the cross represents my savior, and the anchor represents the firm hold that God has on my life. Then Becca sent me the link for the anchor paperweight. I'll be keeping that at home by my computer. I think if I'm going to need that reminder, it will be in the evening when I'm alone before Bill gets home from work at 10:00. That's when I've always had problems in the past.
So both anchors are ordered and I'm anxiously awaiting their arrival. Are you thinking about what your anchor might be? Cathy's is a piece of jewelry that says, "Believe." I'm glad she's believing that life can be different...I'm believing it, too!
God bless...
I'm a couple hundred calories under for the day, and I just rode my bike for 22 minutes! I think I'm still on track for doing 30 by Sunday and that's awesome!!
I think the fact that we're coming out of the summer slowdown at work and are now gearing up for fall is very timely for me. I'm so busy during the day that there isn't time to think about food. I had a chicken breast, green beans, and plum for lunch and then didn't think about food again until I got home. Then it was scallops, more green beans, and wheat pita bread for dinner.
Still drinking lots of water, and I'm walking more every day. I know that it's real easy to develop bad habits, but it seems like 37 days of living a good healthy routine is enough time for these good habits to kick in and feel comfortable. Not that I'm out of danger for a relapse, but I continue to feel very much in control.
Oh yeah...I did decide today what my anchors would be. If you remember, I got the idea from Cathy who talked about this tool that they use in weight watchers. You're supposed to identify something tangible that you can look at or hold on to that will remind you of the commitment you've made and help you stay the course.
You can see below the two items I'll be using for my anchors...and yes...they are actually anchors! I love the symbolism. My sister gave me the idea, and Allison suggested the necklace below. Just perfect. The heart represents my family, the cross represents my savior, and the anchor represents the firm hold that God has on my life. Then Becca sent me the link for the anchor paperweight. I'll be keeping that at home by my computer. I think if I'm going to need that reminder, it will be in the evening when I'm alone before Bill gets home from work at 10:00. That's when I've always had problems in the past.
So both anchors are ordered and I'm anxiously awaiting their arrival. Are you thinking about what your anchor might be? Cathy's is a piece of jewelry that says, "Believe." I'm glad she's believing that life can be different...I'm believing it, too!
God bless...
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Day 36 and Counting!
Today was a 1,390 calorie, 20 minutes on the bike kinda day! That means it was a good day!
I actually just got off the bike and wanted to check in here before going upstairs for a shower and a good book. So I'm sort of a huffing-puffing sweaty mess! But it feels really good.
As I was thinking about what I wanted to blog tonight, I realized that I'm pretty much mentally exhausted right now. No great insights or even semi-interesting observations.
But that's OK, I think. Come to think of it, though, I did learn something today. I learned that for 36 full days in a row, I have been able to exercise self-discipline and make really good choices. I've been able to develop some really good habits, and eliminate some really bad ones. I know myself better than I ever have before, and I am closer to my God than ever in my life.
I can see a glimmering light way off in the distance at the end of the proverbial tunnel, and it feels very, very good. I will try and keep my eyes on that light, because I know that tomorrow can paint a very different picture. It hasn't taken much in the past to make me fail...to make me get lazy and to turn to food for some kind of twisted form of comfort. I don't ever want to go back to that place. Please God...keep me safe from myself!
So I guess I was wrong...I did have a little bit of insight today. :-)
And I also got a great idea for an "anchor" from my sister. What better anchor than an anchor, representing the thing that can keep my ship from running a muck, and representing the God who is my anchor. So the hunt is on for a piece of anchor jewelry to remind me of my commitment during those times when I become my own worst enemy. Thanks for the idea, Sandy!
I hope you've all had a good day, and as always, I pray for our peace, strength, and resolve.
God bless...
I actually just got off the bike and wanted to check in here before going upstairs for a shower and a good book. So I'm sort of a huffing-puffing sweaty mess! But it feels really good.
As I was thinking about what I wanted to blog tonight, I realized that I'm pretty much mentally exhausted right now. No great insights or even semi-interesting observations.
But that's OK, I think. Come to think of it, though, I did learn something today. I learned that for 36 full days in a row, I have been able to exercise self-discipline and make really good choices. I've been able to develop some really good habits, and eliminate some really bad ones. I know myself better than I ever have before, and I am closer to my God than ever in my life.
I can see a glimmering light way off in the distance at the end of the proverbial tunnel, and it feels very, very good. I will try and keep my eyes on that light, because I know that tomorrow can paint a very different picture. It hasn't taken much in the past to make me fail...to make me get lazy and to turn to food for some kind of twisted form of comfort. I don't ever want to go back to that place. Please God...keep me safe from myself!
So I guess I was wrong...I did have a little bit of insight today. :-)
And I also got a great idea for an "anchor" from my sister. What better anchor than an anchor, representing the thing that can keep my ship from running a muck, and representing the God who is my anchor. So the hunt is on for a piece of anchor jewelry to remind me of my commitment during those times when I become my own worst enemy. Thanks for the idea, Sandy!
I hope you've all had a good day, and as always, I pray for our peace, strength, and resolve.
God bless...
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Family Fun Night (Day 35)
Just got back from family fun night, and it was exactly that...FUN! We're making every effort to get together once a week and it has been so fantastic to hang out with my favorite people in the world!!
Even though it's late and I'm beat, I want to take the time to blog. I feel like it's a commitment that I've made and I want to do my best to post something every day.
I worked a half day today and then went with Bill to the doctor. He's having some issues and will be having a CT scan on Monday to try and get to the bottom of it. We're just resting in God and trusting that everything will be OK. The good part of this was that because of his appointment, he had to take a personal day from his second job and he was able to join us, which was awesome! Another part that was really awesome was that my parents were in from Arkansas for a quick two day trip and they were able to join us as well. It was really nice to see them if only for a short time. Can't wait to see them again soon!
Because we were so rushed during the afternoon, I ended up just grabbing a plum for lunch and that was it. We picked up some chicken and green beans to bring to Bree and Jim's house, and there was also some pizza and various desserts. My grandson, Nick, made Rice Krispy Treats and Becca made peanut butter cookies. Justin's girlfriend, Allison, made a green grape salad made with fat free sour cream and cream cheese. She was sweet enough to send me the recipe and calorie count so I was able to have a small serving at around 100 calories and really enjoyed it. I also had some green beans and one grilled chicken breast. We brought home some of Becca's cookies which she calculated at around 100 calories, so I'll enjoy having one tomorrow.
At the end of the day, I only used 900 calories. I'm finding when I'm really busy I'm so afraid of going over my daily allotment of 1500 calories that I'm erring on the side of caution. But I really wasn't all that hungry and definitely didn't feel deprived...I was just enjoying everyone's company.
For the last two nights, I made it to 18 minutes on the bike!! I'm really happy with that, and would love to make it to 30 minutes by Sunday. We'll see how it goes.
Well, good night for now. Hope you all have a fantastic Wednesday!
God bless...
Even though it's late and I'm beat, I want to take the time to blog. I feel like it's a commitment that I've made and I want to do my best to post something every day.
I worked a half day today and then went with Bill to the doctor. He's having some issues and will be having a CT scan on Monday to try and get to the bottom of it. We're just resting in God and trusting that everything will be OK. The good part of this was that because of his appointment, he had to take a personal day from his second job and he was able to join us, which was awesome! Another part that was really awesome was that my parents were in from Arkansas for a quick two day trip and they were able to join us as well. It was really nice to see them if only for a short time. Can't wait to see them again soon!
Because we were so rushed during the afternoon, I ended up just grabbing a plum for lunch and that was it. We picked up some chicken and green beans to bring to Bree and Jim's house, and there was also some pizza and various desserts. My grandson, Nick, made Rice Krispy Treats and Becca made peanut butter cookies. Justin's girlfriend, Allison, made a green grape salad made with fat free sour cream and cream cheese. She was sweet enough to send me the recipe and calorie count so I was able to have a small serving at around 100 calories and really enjoyed it. I also had some green beans and one grilled chicken breast. We brought home some of Becca's cookies which she calculated at around 100 calories, so I'll enjoy having one tomorrow.
At the end of the day, I only used 900 calories. I'm finding when I'm really busy I'm so afraid of going over my daily allotment of 1500 calories that I'm erring on the side of caution. But I really wasn't all that hungry and definitely didn't feel deprived...I was just enjoying everyone's company.
For the last two nights, I made it to 18 minutes on the bike!! I'm really happy with that, and would love to make it to 30 minutes by Sunday. We'll see how it goes.
Well, good night for now. Hope you all have a fantastic Wednesday!
God bless...
Monday, August 16, 2010
The Definition of Insanity (Day 34)
So I was reflecting today on what a strange step this blogging is for me. Putting myself out here like this does not come naturally to me. I'm a pretty private person...especially related to my struggles. I always figured that I could handle things on my own. But the truth is, that attitude hasn't gotten me very far.
I've been dealing with these weight issues for 20+ years. There have been countless well-intentioned starts followed by dismal failures over the years. And many periods of complete surrender to the idea that it was hopeless and that I would just have to be happy with myself the way I am. Then I would transition to admitting that I wasn't really happy and I'd embark on another well-intentioned start followed by a dismal failure. They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting a different outcome. Based on that, I've been a living, breathing example of insanity!
So I knew if I was ever to make a real change in my life, I couldn't keep doing the same old things that never worked in the past. I couldn't simply start another diet. It's not about a diet...it's about living life in a God-honoring way. It's about taking care of the health and body He's given me. Every time I've started a "diet" in the past, I'd always pray. And I know He was there to help me. But He's not going to do it for me. I need to rely on Him, yes, but still be willing to do the hard work...physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
I feel like it was a divine appointment that I read the article about Sean and his transformed life on July 14th. (My first blog post explains what I mean.) On that day I learned two things: I learned that I could really do this. And I learned that I didn't have to do it on my own. That I can rely on God, yes. But that He also puts people in our lives to encourage and love us...people we can encourage and love in return. Jesus set such a good example for us as He gathered together His twelve friends to love and support each other, and to get the job done!
In the end, I am truly writing this for me, and I am gaining good insight into what makes me tick even in this short time. But also in this writing, I am making connections with other people who share the struggle, and I'm really happy about that. Reading what many of you have written in your own blogs is so encouraging and helps me to stay on track. And if I can help you do the same, I couldn't be happier!
Well, today was weigh day and I clocked in at a 2 lb. loss! That's 17.5 lbs. for the first month and I'm pretty thrilled with that!
I decided early on that I was going to try really hard to not be disappointed with whatever the scale says as long as I know I did my best to make good, healthy choices during the week. For the past week, I stayed under 1,500 calories every day and I even made some healthy progress by drinking less diet soda and eating fewer processed foods. I also drank 64 oz. or more of water everyday, which contributed to my exercise because I had to exponentially increase my trips to the bathroom!! :-)
My big goal for the next week is to keep up the good work with my food choices, but to increase my physical activity by riding the bike everyday and by continuing to get up and walk around more at work. As the evenings get a bit cooler, I also plan to add a walk around the neighborhood.
To close, I got a really good idea from my new friend, Cathy. She wrote today about a tool that they use in weight watchers called "anchoring." Anchoring is identifying something tangible that you can look at or hold that will remind you throughout the day to stay the course. I think this is a fabulous idea and I am going to make a concerted effort to find my anchor this week.
God bless...
I've been dealing with these weight issues for 20+ years. There have been countless well-intentioned starts followed by dismal failures over the years. And many periods of complete surrender to the idea that it was hopeless and that I would just have to be happy with myself the way I am. Then I would transition to admitting that I wasn't really happy and I'd embark on another well-intentioned start followed by a dismal failure. They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting a different outcome. Based on that, I've been a living, breathing example of insanity!
So I knew if I was ever to make a real change in my life, I couldn't keep doing the same old things that never worked in the past. I couldn't simply start another diet. It's not about a diet...it's about living life in a God-honoring way. It's about taking care of the health and body He's given me. Every time I've started a "diet" in the past, I'd always pray. And I know He was there to help me. But He's not going to do it for me. I need to rely on Him, yes, but still be willing to do the hard work...physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
I feel like it was a divine appointment that I read the article about Sean and his transformed life on July 14th. (My first blog post explains what I mean.) On that day I learned two things: I learned that I could really do this. And I learned that I didn't have to do it on my own. That I can rely on God, yes. But that He also puts people in our lives to encourage and love us...people we can encourage and love in return. Jesus set such a good example for us as He gathered together His twelve friends to love and support each other, and to get the job done!
In the end, I am truly writing this for me, and I am gaining good insight into what makes me tick even in this short time. But also in this writing, I am making connections with other people who share the struggle, and I'm really happy about that. Reading what many of you have written in your own blogs is so encouraging and helps me to stay on track. And if I can help you do the same, I couldn't be happier!
Well, today was weigh day and I clocked in at a 2 lb. loss! That's 17.5 lbs. for the first month and I'm pretty thrilled with that!
I decided early on that I was going to try really hard to not be disappointed with whatever the scale says as long as I know I did my best to make good, healthy choices during the week. For the past week, I stayed under 1,500 calories every day and I even made some healthy progress by drinking less diet soda and eating fewer processed foods. I also drank 64 oz. or more of water everyday, which contributed to my exercise because I had to exponentially increase my trips to the bathroom!! :-)
My big goal for the next week is to keep up the good work with my food choices, but to increase my physical activity by riding the bike everyday and by continuing to get up and walk around more at work. As the evenings get a bit cooler, I also plan to add a walk around the neighborhood.
To close, I got a really good idea from my new friend, Cathy. She wrote today about a tool that they use in weight watchers called "anchoring." Anchoring is identifying something tangible that you can look at or hold that will remind you throughout the day to stay the course. I think this is a fabulous idea and I am going to make a concerted effort to find my anchor this week.
God bless...
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Where Does the Weekend Go? (Day 33)
I can't believe how quickly the weekend goes by! Today was a really relaxed day...I caught up on some reading and we also caught up on our recorded episodes of Cake Boss. (Love that show!!)
I'm glad I had my guard up because I was really hungry between breakfast and lunch. I made an awesome burrito for breakfast and it was a very filling 310 calories. (Can't believe I didn't take a picture...it was a work of art!) I think I'll have another one for dinner tomorrow so I'll take a picture then.
So I had breakfast around 8:30 and by 10:00 I was really hungry. That's the first time this has happened since I began down this road. I couldn't figure it out, and I really didn't want to eat anything because I didn't know what we were going to do for the rest of the day. I wanted to pick up some shoes to use with my bike, so I ran out to the store, thinking that would take my mind off my stomach. I stopped at McDonalds and got a large diet coke for $1, and then ran my errands. It worked like a charm...that and quite a bit of prayer! I picked up Wendy's for Bill and I and we had lunch around 1:00. I had a small chili and jr. cheeseburger deluxe for 500 calories. The rest of the day went fine...no more overwhelming hunger so I feel like I dodged a bullet!
In the afternoon I jumped on the bike and started out all gung-ho! To my dismay, I only managed 15 minutes. I was going at a pretty good pace, but I thought I'd be able to do better than that! I've got a long way to go, but I think I'm really going to enjoy having the bike here.
I put up some pictures of my family, some yucky ones of me, and one of my pretty bike. You can check them out at the menu at the top of the page. I can't wait to get some better ones of myself that won't be so hard to look at!
Tomorrow is weigh day...can't wait to see where I'm at after the first month. Hope you had a good weekend, and that the coming week brings joy and success in all you do!
God bless...
I'm glad I had my guard up because I was really hungry between breakfast and lunch. I made an awesome burrito for breakfast and it was a very filling 310 calories. (Can't believe I didn't take a picture...it was a work of art!) I think I'll have another one for dinner tomorrow so I'll take a picture then.
So I had breakfast around 8:30 and by 10:00 I was really hungry. That's the first time this has happened since I began down this road. I couldn't figure it out, and I really didn't want to eat anything because I didn't know what we were going to do for the rest of the day. I wanted to pick up some shoes to use with my bike, so I ran out to the store, thinking that would take my mind off my stomach. I stopped at McDonalds and got a large diet coke for $1, and then ran my errands. It worked like a charm...that and quite a bit of prayer! I picked up Wendy's for Bill and I and we had lunch around 1:00. I had a small chili and jr. cheeseburger deluxe for 500 calories. The rest of the day went fine...no more overwhelming hunger so I feel like I dodged a bullet!
In the afternoon I jumped on the bike and started out all gung-ho! To my dismay, I only managed 15 minutes. I was going at a pretty good pace, but I thought I'd be able to do better than that! I've got a long way to go, but I think I'm really going to enjoy having the bike here.
I put up some pictures of my family, some yucky ones of me, and one of my pretty bike. You can check them out at the menu at the top of the page. I can't wait to get some better ones of myself that won't be so hard to look at!
Tomorrow is weigh day...can't wait to see where I'm at after the first month. Hope you had a good weekend, and that the coming week brings joy and success in all you do!
God bless...
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Lazy Days of Summer (Day 32)
Had a lovely, somewhat lazy day today. :-) This morning, Bill and I put together my bike! Actually, Bill put it together and I handed him stuff. I was able to read the manual tonight and I plan to get started on my new program tomorrow! So excited!
Then we had a great time visiting with family. Bill was scheduled to be one of the camera operators at church, so he had to leave our daughter Becca's house early to show up for the service run-through. I stayed and caught up with our three daughters, Sabrina, Becca, and Sierra. I will try and pull together some pictures over the next day or so to introduce my new friends to my wonderful family!
I was having such a good time that I ended up not going to church. I plan on going to one of the services tomorrow, or I will catch it online if that doesn't work out. When Bill got back, we did the grocery shopping and got our laundry done. So with most of our errands out of the way, we should be able to do a little more relaxing tomorrow.
I did better using up my calories today...only 150 left over. I tried one of Sean's favorites for breakfast this morning...3 scrambled egg whites. I made mine with 1/4 cup of shredded cheese, mushrooms, and black olives. With a toasted Arnold's wheat sandwich bun, the whole thing came out to only 290 calories and was totally delish!
Didn't fit in much exercise other than whatever walking we did at the grocery store. Will do much better tomorrow when I break in the new bike! I'll see if I can get a picture of the little beauty and throw that up here, as well!
Hope you all had a wonderful Saturday, and that you get some good sleepin' done!
God bless...
Then we had a great time visiting with family. Bill was scheduled to be one of the camera operators at church, so he had to leave our daughter Becca's house early to show up for the service run-through. I stayed and caught up with our three daughters, Sabrina, Becca, and Sierra. I will try and pull together some pictures over the next day or so to introduce my new friends to my wonderful family!
I was having such a good time that I ended up not going to church. I plan on going to one of the services tomorrow, or I will catch it online if that doesn't work out. When Bill got back, we did the grocery shopping and got our laundry done. So with most of our errands out of the way, we should be able to do a little more relaxing tomorrow.
I did better using up my calories today...only 150 left over. I tried one of Sean's favorites for breakfast this morning...3 scrambled egg whites. I made mine with 1/4 cup of shredded cheese, mushrooms, and black olives. With a toasted Arnold's wheat sandwich bun, the whole thing came out to only 290 calories and was totally delish!
Didn't fit in much exercise other than whatever walking we did at the grocery store. Will do much better tomorrow when I break in the new bike! I'll see if I can get a picture of the little beauty and throw that up here, as well!
Hope you all had a wonderful Saturday, and that you get some good sleepin' done!
God bless...
Friday, August 13, 2010
TGIF! (Day 31)
Weekends have been weird for me since going down this road toward better health and self-discovery. Especially Saturdays. But weird in an unexpected way. I've faced four Saturdays since I started counting calories, and at the end of the day for all four of them, I've left anywhere from 300 to 500 calories uneaten and unenjoyed. The reason for this is that we're really busy on Saturdays. Bill works two jobs during the week so he often doesn't roll in until after 10:00 each night. Absolutely no time during the week for us to do stuff. So Saturday is usually the day that we make our nursing home visit to my Aunt Kay, do our grocery shopping and any other errands that come up, do the laundry, and go to church. We try to keep Sunday open to kick back, relax, and spend some down time together. I sorta expected weekends to present the opposite problem...that I'd be tempted to overeat. But that's not been the case. I'm going to try and get closer to 1500 calories tomorrow and not let the day get away without make good, healthy choices.
And here's another weird thing. I've actually been using cream on my face in the morning, and even bought this jar of stuff called "night cream" to put on my face before bed. There's actually specific face cream that you use only at night. I'm not sure what would happen if I make a mistake and use that during the day, so I'm being very careful not to pick up the wrong jar! I've never taken the time or effort on my skin before. But the weirdness doesn't stop there. I'm sleeping better and generally being more productive. Has anyone else ever noticed this phenomenon? Have you noticed that when you take control of your poor eating and exercise habits, that other areas of your life seem to automatically improve? It's amazing to me. I don't quite understand it, but my face is fabulously soft! :-)
Today has been a good day. It was rather stressful at work, with it being crunch time for getting things done for the weekend services and then an unexpected meeting came up. But the stress didn't push me to fall off the wagon like it has so many times in the past. I'm not even sure I should admit this, but I'm kinda nervous because this past month hasn't been even close to a struggle. It's always been so hard in days gone by. I feel like I need to keep my guard up less I get blindsided. But for now, I feel very much in control and I really believe that failure is not an option! Exercise is going better, too. I took the stairs at work most of the time today and logged 2.5 miles on my pedometer. And I'm so excited because Bill's going to finish putting my bike together tomorrow!
Well...I think that's it for now. I've got a few things to get done before Bill comes home, and I hear that night cream calling! :-)
I hope you all have a really wonderful, restful, and enjoyable weekend. And for you fellow travelers, I pray for peace, strength, and resolve.
God bless you...
And here's another weird thing. I've actually been using cream on my face in the morning, and even bought this jar of stuff called "night cream" to put on my face before bed. There's actually specific face cream that you use only at night. I'm not sure what would happen if I make a mistake and use that during the day, so I'm being very careful not to pick up the wrong jar! I've never taken the time or effort on my skin before. But the weirdness doesn't stop there. I'm sleeping better and generally being more productive. Has anyone else ever noticed this phenomenon? Have you noticed that when you take control of your poor eating and exercise habits, that other areas of your life seem to automatically improve? It's amazing to me. I don't quite understand it, but my face is fabulously soft! :-)
Today has been a good day. It was rather stressful at work, with it being crunch time for getting things done for the weekend services and then an unexpected meeting came up. But the stress didn't push me to fall off the wagon like it has so many times in the past. I'm not even sure I should admit this, but I'm kinda nervous because this past month hasn't been even close to a struggle. It's always been so hard in days gone by. I feel like I need to keep my guard up less I get blindsided. But for now, I feel very much in control and I really believe that failure is not an option! Exercise is going better, too. I took the stairs at work most of the time today and logged 2.5 miles on my pedometer. And I'm so excited because Bill's going to finish putting my bike together tomorrow!
Well...I think that's it for now. I've got a few things to get done before Bill comes home, and I hear that night cream calling! :-)
I hope you all have a really wonderful, restful, and enjoyable weekend. And for you fellow travelers, I pray for peace, strength, and resolve.
God bless you...
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Completely Blown Away! (Day 30)
Wow! I can't thank you all enough for your encouragement!! Thanks to my family and co-workers, and thanks to Sean and all of you who found me via Sean's blog!! It's a fantastic feeling to know that I've already found new friends on this journey, and that we can all be an encouragement to one another.
While it's only day 2 of this blog, it's day 30 of my metamorphosis, and it's been a very good day. For my new friends, I work as Communications Director for a large church in Orland Park, Illinois, and today was not a typical Thursday because we served as the host church for a regional training seminar for our database vendor. It was a crazy day of running from one session to another, and in between, trying to accomplish some of the normal workload.
Because I knew that we would be having lunch together as a group, I was really tempted to prepare something at home so that I could have control over the calories. But after thinking about it, I decided that I had to navigate the food that was offered and just figure out how to make healthy choices.
When we went in for lunch, I was thrilled to find that I had a choice between a roast beef or turkey box lunch. I decided on turkey with a bottle of water. It was a great sandwich with no mayo...I counted it as 350 calories but I'm sure that's high. I ate the apple, but left the cookie and chips.
After work, I had a great evening hanging out with family. I told everyone I would bring Jimmy Johns so it seemed that I was destined to have a turkey kind of day! We had so much fun! I'm sure I burned up a ton of calories just by laughing. I really have the best family, and I plan to tell you more about them along the way.
So I just got home and decided I really wanted to sit down and put this post together. It wouldn't be very good to fall behind on the second day! I was actually thinking about having a snack but I'm really more tired than hungry. I'll be leaving nearly 600 calories in the bank, and I definitely don't want to get in the habit of doing that. The old me would probably have stopped at McDonald's on the way home, but the new me wasn't even tempted. I like the new me much better :-)
Before I sign off tonight, I just want to thank so many of you again. I especially appreciate those of you who join me in viewing this as not merely a physical journey...but as a spiritual one. I have probably read Philippians 4:13 a thousand times during my life. "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." But I really don't think I believed that until now. At least not about losing weight. I've failed so many times in the past. And I think that if I decide to simply eat less and exercise more without relying on the one who gives me strength, I will fail yet again. So I will cling to Him, and with His help I'll become who He wants me to be.
I'm so glad you're all in my life. And for those who are on this journey with me, know that I'm praying for you and for your success.
God bless...
Karyn
While it's only day 2 of this blog, it's day 30 of my metamorphosis, and it's been a very good day. For my new friends, I work as Communications Director for a large church in Orland Park, Illinois, and today was not a typical Thursday because we served as the host church for a regional training seminar for our database vendor. It was a crazy day of running from one session to another, and in between, trying to accomplish some of the normal workload.
Because I knew that we would be having lunch together as a group, I was really tempted to prepare something at home so that I could have control over the calories. But after thinking about it, I decided that I had to navigate the food that was offered and just figure out how to make healthy choices.
When we went in for lunch, I was thrilled to find that I had a choice between a roast beef or turkey box lunch. I decided on turkey with a bottle of water. It was a great sandwich with no mayo...I counted it as 350 calories but I'm sure that's high. I ate the apple, but left the cookie and chips.
After work, I had a great evening hanging out with family. I told everyone I would bring Jimmy Johns so it seemed that I was destined to have a turkey kind of day! We had so much fun! I'm sure I burned up a ton of calories just by laughing. I really have the best family, and I plan to tell you more about them along the way.
So I just got home and decided I really wanted to sit down and put this post together. It wouldn't be very good to fall behind on the second day! I was actually thinking about having a snack but I'm really more tired than hungry. I'll be leaving nearly 600 calories in the bank, and I definitely don't want to get in the habit of doing that. The old me would probably have stopped at McDonald's on the way home, but the new me wasn't even tempted. I like the new me much better :-)
Before I sign off tonight, I just want to thank so many of you again. I especially appreciate those of you who join me in viewing this as not merely a physical journey...but as a spiritual one. I have probably read Philippians 4:13 a thousand times during my life. "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." But I really don't think I believed that until now. At least not about losing weight. I've failed so many times in the past. And I think that if I decide to simply eat less and exercise more without relying on the one who gives me strength, I will fail yet again. So I will cling to Him, and with His help I'll become who He wants me to be.
I'm so glad you're all in my life. And for those who are on this journey with me, know that I'm praying for you and for your success.
God bless...
Karyn
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
And the Metamorphosis Begins...
I will always remember July 14, 2010 as the day the metamorphosis began.
Not the most important transformation...that occurred in my early 20s when I began a life-long relationship with the God who knows me completely and loves me anyway. That day truly changed my life...not just changed my life, but saved my life.
But on July 14th, the physical metamorphosis toward health and a commitment to treat this temple that God has given me with the respect and love that it deserves was born.
When I got up that day, I really didn't intend on taking this on. Believe me, there have been countless Mondays over the last couple of decades that I declared "this is the day!" This day in July wasn't even a Monday...it was Wednesday.
I logged on to my computer when I got up to check my email and see what occured in the world while I was sleeping. As I logged onto AIM, the AOL homepage popped up and I saw a headline about a guy who lost over 200 lbs. and never ate a salad. I'm not sure why I was so intrigued because I happen to love salad, but something made me click on that link.
That's when I met Sean Anderson. He's become a very good friend even though we've never met. The article related his journey from 505 lbs. to where he is today...just 13 lbs. away from his goal of 230 lbs. It was an inspiring story and the article included a link to Sean's blog and I decided I needed to learn more about this guy.
And that's when my life changed. Sean is a real down-to-earth guy who decided to do something radical before his obesity killed him. He had this unbelieveable diet plan. You're really not going to believe it. Are you ready? He decided he was going to eat less and exercise more. You read it here, friends! Eat less and exercise more!
I know...that's crazy sauce, right? People need more than that to lose weight. You have to have some kind of master plan...a meal replacement plan, or prepared meals plan, or low carb, high protein plan, or some kind of magic pill plan, or a lapband, stomach stapling plan. Eat less and exercise more? Come on!
But it's genius, really. And it's changing my life. Sean decided that he had to live in a world full of food. And any diet plan that required you to do anything other than eat like a normal, regular person was doomed to fail. Because you can't stay on something like that forever. It's unsustainable. Invariably, people gain back what they've lost and then some because eventually they have to face food. Believe me...I speak from experience!
So the idea is to allow yourself 1500 calories per day, and you can spend them however you want. No special food...no forbidden food. If you want 1500 calories in Snickers bars, that's your choice to make. But that's all you get for the day. When you've emptied your calorie bank, you're done for the day.
I've been doing this since July 14th and it's been beyond amazing. I've already learned so much about portion control and good calorie values. I can honestly say that I have been very rarely hungry and more often than not, I leave calories on the table at the end of the day. I set up my food journal in an excel spreadsheet and it calculates for me automatically. I've researched the calorie content of many of my favorite things and have entered those in my spreadsheet, as well. Even restaurants are not off limits. So many of them make their nutrition available online...it's awesome! Bill and I went to Red Lobster for lunch on Sunday after enjoying a fantastic movie. Because I did a little research beforehand, I was able to enjoy a fantastic, filling Broiled Seafood Platter for only 280 calories. Without that research, though, there were many things on that menu with HUGE portions and ridiculous calorie counts that no one should be eating!
The other part of my metamorphosis is to move. Exercise has not been a part of my life because, frankly, moving with all this extra weight is pretty difficult. My knees hurt on stairs and I wouldn't have to do much before I would become out of breath. But I've made a commitment to move, and while I know it will take time to undue all these years of abusing this temple, I will take it one day at a time and move. I'm walking more and my fantastic husband will be assembling my new recumbent bike very soon.
Two other things...I'm drinking lots and lots of water and am actually enjoying it. Who knew? And I'm also trying to understand myself and my relationship with food because I do believe that so much of this struggle is between me, myself, and I.
I am reading my buddy Sean's blog from the beginning of his journey and I'm finding him to be beyond inspiring. Sean began his blog as a way to understand himself and to keep himself accountable. It's a fabulous idea, and it's why I'm doing it, too. Whether anyone reads this or not, I believe I'll learn something new about myself with every post.
I'm not too big on photos, but I may be sorry later if I don't post some here. I really despise looking at pictures of myself, and for that reason, very few exist. I'll think about that and we'll see. And I'm pretty sure I don't want to post my weight here. Can't quite face that. It was hard enough to weigh myself...I really didn't want to know. But it's just a number, and it's already one that I'll never see again. I'm not going to set a goal. I'm going to lose weight until I know I've lost enough. I'm weighing every Monday, and to date, I've lost 15.5 lbs. I am beyond thrilled because I know I've been making healthy choices and I feel great!
So thanks for reading!! If you want to be inspired by Sean's success and his beautiful outlook on life, you can check him out at http://losingweighteveryday.blogspot.com/.
God bless you...
Not the most important transformation...that occurred in my early 20s when I began a life-long relationship with the God who knows me completely and loves me anyway. That day truly changed my life...not just changed my life, but saved my life.
But on July 14th, the physical metamorphosis toward health and a commitment to treat this temple that God has given me with the respect and love that it deserves was born.
When I got up that day, I really didn't intend on taking this on. Believe me, there have been countless Mondays over the last couple of decades that I declared "this is the day!" This day in July wasn't even a Monday...it was Wednesday.
I logged on to my computer when I got up to check my email and see what occured in the world while I was sleeping. As I logged onto AIM, the AOL homepage popped up and I saw a headline about a guy who lost over 200 lbs. and never ate a salad. I'm not sure why I was so intrigued because I happen to love salad, but something made me click on that link.
That's when I met Sean Anderson. He's become a very good friend even though we've never met. The article related his journey from 505 lbs. to where he is today...just 13 lbs. away from his goal of 230 lbs. It was an inspiring story and the article included a link to Sean's blog and I decided I needed to learn more about this guy.
And that's when my life changed. Sean is a real down-to-earth guy who decided to do something radical before his obesity killed him. He had this unbelieveable diet plan. You're really not going to believe it. Are you ready? He decided he was going to eat less and exercise more. You read it here, friends! Eat less and exercise more!
I know...that's crazy sauce, right? People need more than that to lose weight. You have to have some kind of master plan...a meal replacement plan, or prepared meals plan, or low carb, high protein plan, or some kind of magic pill plan, or a lapband, stomach stapling plan. Eat less and exercise more? Come on!
But it's genius, really. And it's changing my life. Sean decided that he had to live in a world full of food. And any diet plan that required you to do anything other than eat like a normal, regular person was doomed to fail. Because you can't stay on something like that forever. It's unsustainable. Invariably, people gain back what they've lost and then some because eventually they have to face food. Believe me...I speak from experience!
So the idea is to allow yourself 1500 calories per day, and you can spend them however you want. No special food...no forbidden food. If you want 1500 calories in Snickers bars, that's your choice to make. But that's all you get for the day. When you've emptied your calorie bank, you're done for the day.
I've been doing this since July 14th and it's been beyond amazing. I've already learned so much about portion control and good calorie values. I can honestly say that I have been very rarely hungry and more often than not, I leave calories on the table at the end of the day. I set up my food journal in an excel spreadsheet and it calculates for me automatically. I've researched the calorie content of many of my favorite things and have entered those in my spreadsheet, as well. Even restaurants are not off limits. So many of them make their nutrition available online...it's awesome! Bill and I went to Red Lobster for lunch on Sunday after enjoying a fantastic movie. Because I did a little research beforehand, I was able to enjoy a fantastic, filling Broiled Seafood Platter for only 280 calories. Without that research, though, there were many things on that menu with HUGE portions and ridiculous calorie counts that no one should be eating!
The other part of my metamorphosis is to move. Exercise has not been a part of my life because, frankly, moving with all this extra weight is pretty difficult. My knees hurt on stairs and I wouldn't have to do much before I would become out of breath. But I've made a commitment to move, and while I know it will take time to undue all these years of abusing this temple, I will take it one day at a time and move. I'm walking more and my fantastic husband will be assembling my new recumbent bike very soon.
Two other things...I'm drinking lots and lots of water and am actually enjoying it. Who knew? And I'm also trying to understand myself and my relationship with food because I do believe that so much of this struggle is between me, myself, and I.
I am reading my buddy Sean's blog from the beginning of his journey and I'm finding him to be beyond inspiring. Sean began his blog as a way to understand himself and to keep himself accountable. It's a fabulous idea, and it's why I'm doing it, too. Whether anyone reads this or not, I believe I'll learn something new about myself with every post.
I'm not too big on photos, but I may be sorry later if I don't post some here. I really despise looking at pictures of myself, and for that reason, very few exist. I'll think about that and we'll see. And I'm pretty sure I don't want to post my weight here. Can't quite face that. It was hard enough to weigh myself...I really didn't want to know. But it's just a number, and it's already one that I'll never see again. I'm not going to set a goal. I'm going to lose weight until I know I've lost enough. I'm weighing every Monday, and to date, I've lost 15.5 lbs. I am beyond thrilled because I know I've been making healthy choices and I feel great!
So thanks for reading!! If you want to be inspired by Sean's success and his beautiful outlook on life, you can check him out at http://losingweighteveryday.blogspot.com/.
God bless you...
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