It doesn't get more "unclean" than this. Just like the article says, we all know McDonald's food is not natural or good for us. One artist took steps to showcase this very fact by letting the ingredients of the famous Happy Meal sit on her table for months at a time. Her photographs reveal that the meal sat, virtually unchanged all this time. Pure, Clean food would have rotted and been covered in maggots. No wonder we feel so ill after indulging in what our body feels is a very un-happy meal....
Check it out here: http://www.refinery29.com/happy-meal-art-project.php/slideshow/1/#image-9
Friday, September 17, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Where did time and the summer go???
WHOA! The summer flew by and it has been months since my last post. Not really acceptable but I'm gonna cut myself some slack. To say I've been busy is an understatement. The fired my co-worker so I took on all of her work, we've been traveling, camping, hiking, and we got a puppy! So, that's where the busy came from.
The other area I am going to cut myself some slack is the clean eating area. We completely fell off this summer and have eaten pretty crappy. We've been feeling terrible lately (lethargic, bloated, lazy, etc) and we knew it was time to get back to our healthy eating lifestyle. The break has been long enough and quite frankly, I am tired of eating crap and feeling like crap. The processed and bad foods are like putting poison into my body. Enough is enough.
That being said, we (Pete and I) agreed that we wanted to jump in 110% and do it as a team. We work well together like that! I made up the excel spreadsheets and took Sunday afternoon to prepare a meal plan for the week, to go shopping, then do the prep work. SUCCESS!!! Today I am back on track and feel fantastic, though I will admit, I did feel a little sad passing Starbucks knowing that I wouldn't be getting my coffee and breakfast sandwich. My tummy wasn't sad, though, because it was full of scrambled egg whites and oatmeal. YUM!
I do want to comment on my checkout experience at the grocery store yesterday. I want to preface this by saying that we all know I am in no position to judge others and I have been keeping that in mind. As I loaded the contents of my cart onto the conveyor belt, I glanced at what the people in front of me had put on the belt. Multiple packages of cookies, candy, ice cream, soda, etc. I didn't see one vegetable or fruit. I then glanced over, without meaning to, to check out the owners of the yummy looking but poisonous goodies. I have to say I wasn't surprised when it was a VERY obese couple. Immediately my heart sank. For some reason I felt guilty for having a conveyor belt of fruits, vegetables, and clean foods lined up. I think this is because I didn't want them to feel bad about themselves. I've been there and it sucks. I also felt like I held some knowledge that maybe they weren't aware of. Now, we all know that probably isn't the case, I am just the ultimate excuse maker and was trying to find something to make myself feel better. One thing I can say is that the experience made me hyper aware of why it is I chose the clean eating lifestyle and how important it truly is to me and my family's well being.
I know this is yet another post where I am talking about re-starting this endeavor. I definitely feel like I keep "falling off" but the one thing I am proud of is that I stand right back up, dust myself off, and go at it again. Many studies show that people trying to quit smoking try up to 13 times before actually quitting. So, I feel like if they can do it, I can succeed at making the clean eating program an actual lifestyle. Practice makes perfect, right?!
The other area I am going to cut myself some slack is the clean eating area. We completely fell off this summer and have eaten pretty crappy. We've been feeling terrible lately (lethargic, bloated, lazy, etc) and we knew it was time to get back to our healthy eating lifestyle. The break has been long enough and quite frankly, I am tired of eating crap and feeling like crap. The processed and bad foods are like putting poison into my body. Enough is enough.
That being said, we (Pete and I) agreed that we wanted to jump in 110% and do it as a team. We work well together like that! I made up the excel spreadsheets and took Sunday afternoon to prepare a meal plan for the week, to go shopping, then do the prep work. SUCCESS!!! Today I am back on track and feel fantastic, though I will admit, I did feel a little sad passing Starbucks knowing that I wouldn't be getting my coffee and breakfast sandwich. My tummy wasn't sad, though, because it was full of scrambled egg whites and oatmeal. YUM!
I do want to comment on my checkout experience at the grocery store yesterday. I want to preface this by saying that we all know I am in no position to judge others and I have been keeping that in mind. As I loaded the contents of my cart onto the conveyor belt, I glanced at what the people in front of me had put on the belt. Multiple packages of cookies, candy, ice cream, soda, etc. I didn't see one vegetable or fruit. I then glanced over, without meaning to, to check out the owners of the yummy looking but poisonous goodies. I have to say I wasn't surprised when it was a VERY obese couple. Immediately my heart sank. For some reason I felt guilty for having a conveyor belt of fruits, vegetables, and clean foods lined up. I think this is because I didn't want them to feel bad about themselves. I've been there and it sucks. I also felt like I held some knowledge that maybe they weren't aware of. Now, we all know that probably isn't the case, I am just the ultimate excuse maker and was trying to find something to make myself feel better. One thing I can say is that the experience made me hyper aware of why it is I chose the clean eating lifestyle and how important it truly is to me and my family's well being.
I know this is yet another post where I am talking about re-starting this endeavor. I definitely feel like I keep "falling off" but the one thing I am proud of is that I stand right back up, dust myself off, and go at it again. Many studies show that people trying to quit smoking try up to 13 times before actually quitting. So, I feel like if they can do it, I can succeed at making the clean eating program an actual lifestyle. Practice makes perfect, right?!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
The Hotness!
No, I'm not talking about ME! hahaha! I've been secretly dreaming about taking a hot yoga class. I finally worked up enough courage to try it last night. I had this impression in my mind that I'd walk in and there'd be a ton of Barbie and Ken look alikes, all doing perfect poses, which would make me feel out of place. Oh, it was quite the opposite. I was very happy when I walked in and saw people of all shapes and sizes. A third of the class looked as lost as I did. I must say, though, that I felt pretty at home in the 105 degree temperature - me being from Vegas and all! I won't lie, I didn't make it through 100% of all the poses. I'd say I did 90% and had to rest on my mat to regain my composure the other 10% of the time (had to make sure I didn't puke or pass out). I definitely left feeling like I accomplished something and it was even greater to see that I fit in just fine.
Speaking of accomplishing something. I came across this website yesterday and now I am inspired to try something new. It's a program called C25K. It stands for "Couch to 5K". Basically, it's an easy training guide to tranform you from couch potato to a 5K (3 mile) runner in 9 weeks. The premise is that you commit to training for 30 minutes / 3 times a week. It's designed for people who have never ran, hate running, or just need a little help. Pete and my mother in law have committed to doing it with me. That being said, there is an "Iron Girl" run at a local lake in September that I'd like to try and finish, so this is the goal I'm working towards. I'll keep you posted on how that goes as I've never participated in anything like that.
Here is the C25K site that includes the 9 week running plan. It's quite simple, actually.
http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
Speaking of accomplishing something. I came across this website yesterday and now I am inspired to try something new. It's a program called C25K. It stands for "Couch to 5K". Basically, it's an easy training guide to tranform you from couch potato to a 5K (3 mile) runner in 9 weeks. The premise is that you commit to training for 30 minutes / 3 times a week. It's designed for people who have never ran, hate running, or just need a little help. Pete and my mother in law have committed to doing it with me. That being said, there is an "Iron Girl" run at a local lake in September that I'd like to try and finish, so this is the goal I'm working towards. I'll keep you posted on how that goes as I've never participated in anything like that.
Here is the C25K site that includes the 9 week running plan. It's quite simple, actually.
http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
Friday, May 21, 2010
Today is Dedicated to My Husband
Today is a really special day for me and for Pete. No, not our anniversary - that is this Sunday. Today is the culmination of 5 long years of hard work and dedication. Today is Pete's last class of a 5 year sheet metal apprenticeship - GRADUATION DAY!
Back in 2004 Pete and I decided to join a small group at church. We walked up to the table and told them our interests and they assigned us to a group and put us in contact with Carl & Amber Simon. We didn't know a single person and had no idea what to expect. As we bravely knocked on their door we were greeted with warm, smiling faces. Over the next year that group grew to over 6 couples and we met some of our best friends there. All friends of a lifetime. Four of the men in that group were sheet metal workers and they convinced Pete that it was a great career filled with promise and great provisions for a growing family (we were expecting Jordan).
Pete decided that it sounded like a good gig. Who doesn't want a free education and a $45 an hour paycheck after 5 years? Not to mention wonderful benefits and a semi decent pension. Needless to say, he studied hard and passed the entrance test. Let me preface that by telling you that Pete always told me that growing up he was not a good student, made mediocre grades, and essentially hated school. So for him to take that first step, study for this hard test, and pass it, was an accomplishment in and of itself. Not to mention the endless school work and tests he'd endure over the next 5 years.
When we lived in Vegas he had to be at work at 5am, work all day (mind you - this is HARD physical labor - no desk job here) and then drive across town and sit through 4 hours of class EVERY NIGHT of the week. This was a continuous cycle until we moved to Seattle in April of 2008. At that time, he transferred to the school in Everett. Here they do the apprenticeship differently. Every few months the apprentices have to go to school all day for one week at a time. Mind you, they miss work for that week, therefore, missing a whole paycheck. To say it has been an adjustment is an understatement but has been well worth it. At least he's home with the family every night.
The road to becoming a sheet metal journeyman has been challenging. I don't think anyone (except fellow trade workers) understand what it's like to work in a Union Trade. It definitely isn't the cushy concierge desk job that Pete came from. He's on his feet all day, lugging heavy materials, keeping a fast pace, working with sharp metal (if only I had a dollar for every cut he's had - I'd be rich), working with employees who are lazy, rude, belligerant, and could care less about others. Always busting his butt to prove himself so he can keep his job. It was an adjustment. We've had experiences I can't even begin to describe. One cut finger led to an office visit where the doc sterilized his instruments with water ran through a coffee pot to get it hot as they didn't have running hot water in the building. And we don't even live in a 3rd world country here people! That finger took many painful office procedures and months to heal. Hammers falling from 40 stories above and landing 10 feet from you. Wind storms blowing debris off of a 30 story high rise - basically turning them into deadly projectiles. Falling off ladders, crawling in tight dark spaces, drilling your fingers. Watching co-workers get injured, crushed, airlifted from the job site - knowing that could be you. Multiple layoffs due to lack of work or politics. The latest was the day before Christmas. Did I mention this has been a WILD ride?
Not all of the experiences of the past 5 years have been bad. Actually, MOST of them have been good. We've made great friends, Pete's had the opportunity to minister to people in ways you couldn't imagine. He's known for getting people to come check out church with us and then they never seem to leave :) We've had wonderful family time, he doesn't have to travel for work, he gets paid a great wage and it's been steadily increasing every 6 months for the past 5 years. We have good insurance. Most of all, it's afforded him the opportunity to spend quality time with his family, which to us, is the most important aspect.
Looking back, very seldom have I told Pete how much I appreciate his hard work, dedication, and perseverance. The sacrifices he has made have not gone unnoticed. Today I celebrate all that he has done and all that he has accomplished for the sake of bettering himself and providing for our family. I look back and realize how far we've come and how blessed we truly are. Most of all I give thanks for being privledged enough to have this wonderful man as my husband, my partner, and my best friend. I couldn't have planned this journey better myself nor could I have picked a better person to share it with.
Thank you Pete, from the bottom of my heart for being the best example of what a real man is. Your love, guidance, strength, and courage is an inspiration to me. You are an incredible human being. Today I celebrate YOU and all you have accomplished. Congratulations baby! I love you!
Back in 2004 Pete and I decided to join a small group at church. We walked up to the table and told them our interests and they assigned us to a group and put us in contact with Carl & Amber Simon. We didn't know a single person and had no idea what to expect. As we bravely knocked on their door we were greeted with warm, smiling faces. Over the next year that group grew to over 6 couples and we met some of our best friends there. All friends of a lifetime. Four of the men in that group were sheet metal workers and they convinced Pete that it was a great career filled with promise and great provisions for a growing family (we were expecting Jordan).
Pete decided that it sounded like a good gig. Who doesn't want a free education and a $45 an hour paycheck after 5 years? Not to mention wonderful benefits and a semi decent pension. Needless to say, he studied hard and passed the entrance test. Let me preface that by telling you that Pete always told me that growing up he was not a good student, made mediocre grades, and essentially hated school. So for him to take that first step, study for this hard test, and pass it, was an accomplishment in and of itself. Not to mention the endless school work and tests he'd endure over the next 5 years.
When we lived in Vegas he had to be at work at 5am, work all day (mind you - this is HARD physical labor - no desk job here) and then drive across town and sit through 4 hours of class EVERY NIGHT of the week. This was a continuous cycle until we moved to Seattle in April of 2008. At that time, he transferred to the school in Everett. Here they do the apprenticeship differently. Every few months the apprentices have to go to school all day for one week at a time. Mind you, they miss work for that week, therefore, missing a whole paycheck. To say it has been an adjustment is an understatement but has been well worth it. At least he's home with the family every night.
The road to becoming a sheet metal journeyman has been challenging. I don't think anyone (except fellow trade workers) understand what it's like to work in a Union Trade. It definitely isn't the cushy concierge desk job that Pete came from. He's on his feet all day, lugging heavy materials, keeping a fast pace, working with sharp metal (if only I had a dollar for every cut he's had - I'd be rich), working with employees who are lazy, rude, belligerant, and could care less about others. Always busting his butt to prove himself so he can keep his job. It was an adjustment. We've had experiences I can't even begin to describe. One cut finger led to an office visit where the doc sterilized his instruments with water ran through a coffee pot to get it hot as they didn't have running hot water in the building. And we don't even live in a 3rd world country here people! That finger took many painful office procedures and months to heal. Hammers falling from 40 stories above and landing 10 feet from you. Wind storms blowing debris off of a 30 story high rise - basically turning them into deadly projectiles. Falling off ladders, crawling in tight dark spaces, drilling your fingers. Watching co-workers get injured, crushed, airlifted from the job site - knowing that could be you. Multiple layoffs due to lack of work or politics. The latest was the day before Christmas. Did I mention this has been a WILD ride?
Not all of the experiences of the past 5 years have been bad. Actually, MOST of them have been good. We've made great friends, Pete's had the opportunity to minister to people in ways you couldn't imagine. He's known for getting people to come check out church with us and then they never seem to leave :) We've had wonderful family time, he doesn't have to travel for work, he gets paid a great wage and it's been steadily increasing every 6 months for the past 5 years. We have good insurance. Most of all, it's afforded him the opportunity to spend quality time with his family, which to us, is the most important aspect.
Looking back, very seldom have I told Pete how much I appreciate his hard work, dedication, and perseverance. The sacrifices he has made have not gone unnoticed. Today I celebrate all that he has done and all that he has accomplished for the sake of bettering himself and providing for our family. I look back and realize how far we've come and how blessed we truly are. Most of all I give thanks for being privledged enough to have this wonderful man as my husband, my partner, and my best friend. I couldn't have planned this journey better myself nor could I have picked a better person to share it with.
Thank you Pete, from the bottom of my heart for being the best example of what a real man is. Your love, guidance, strength, and courage is an inspiration to me. You are an incredible human being. Today I celebrate YOU and all you have accomplished. Congratulations baby! I love you!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Thursday's menu
Just thought I'd share today's clean menu so you can get an idea of what I'm eating. First, though, I had a random thought that I'll shyly share. I'm not sure if it's my outfit or what, but I FEEL thinner today. It always seems like as soon as I start eating right that the roll on my stomach from having a baby (thanks JJ) seems to be less prominant. It may just be my imagination, but either way, I'll take it! I'm focusing on one positive thought to vocalize and make as my truth each day. Today's is: "This healthy lifestyle is already benefitting me and I can tell because my "baby roll" is shrinking." haha! Love it!
Breakfast
Breakfast
- 1/4 cup egg beaters scrambled with green onion and Mrs. Dash (goes great with eggs and eliminates the need for salt)
- 1/2 cup pineapple
- big glass of water
- coffee with splenda and a tiny bit of f/f milk
- 1/2 cup f/f cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup pineapple
- 16 oz. water
- Tuna mixed w/ dill pickle relish and a small amount of light miracle whip (less than a tbsp)
- Whole wheat pita
- Diet coke w/ lemon
- Handful of almonds (no salt - dry roasted)
- Container of light yogurt
- 1 orange
- 16 oz. water
- Spinach salad w/ veggies and a splash of balsamic vinegar & olive oil
- 3/4 cup sweet potato cubes
- 4 oz. grilled boneless pork chop
- Either 1/2 cup sugar free / fat free (f/f) jello or a handful of fresh cherries (the latter sounds better actually)
Monday, May 17, 2010
Monday weigh in
Ok - being the true lady I am, I won't divulge my actual weight, but suffice it to say that I'm pretty much where I was the last time I gave you a weight update. Pete is at 185.5 and his goal is 178. Only 7.5 pounds to go. He can do that in his sleep! I am so excited that he's almost there. My immediate small term goal is 5 pounds down. I can do that pretty quickly. W-A-T-E-R - must drink lots of it! And keep packin' my lunch. I'm on top of it.....
Here's the nice, professional looking picture I set up just after my shopping trip yesterday. SO PROUD!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Lifestyle re-start
Well, I won't be telling you anything you haven't already heard, but the past month has been really hard for me in terms of keeping up with the Eating Clean lifestyle (the past few weeks have been difficult for Pete, too). There's great news though - I didn't fall off the bandwagon too far and I knew there's never a better time to re-commit than now. In the "olden days" I'd have fallen off so bad that it'd take me gaining back 20 pounds before I'd get depressed enough to re-commit. I haven't gained any weight back and I'm not depressed. What I am is re-committed to eating clean, exercising, and being positive.
I went on my regular Sunday grocery store expedition a few hours ago. I felt so proud when I got to the check out stand and half of my cart was fresh produce. I don't think there was a single non-clean food on the conveyor belt. I took a picture of a sample of the items I bought and will be uploading it shortly. I've also listed some items below. I noticed that over the past few weeks I've slacked on bringing my cooler of 5 small meals to work and most of the fresh veggies were withering away in the bottom of the crisper. Poor veggies! In an effort to keep that from happening, I took about 45 minutes after I got home to prep a ton of food. I cut up all kinds of veggies, made hard boiled eggs, etc. Now the fridge is full of great foods just waiting within an arms reach. I made a salad for dinner and asked Pete if he wanted green onions on his - he said "nah, that's too much work". I then said "nope - they're already chopped up right in this container - want some?!". It's so convenient when it's all ready and just waiting to be eaten. Almost more convenient than a fast food drive thru!
I will be attempting to write to the blog more often but I can't make any promises. It's definitely at the top of my list though. I may actually begin posting some of my daily food journals for you to check out. I can't wait for tomorrow's weigh in so I can get my new baseline. First goal is 5 lbs down. I also have to work really hard this next week to get all of my water in. We're having nice weather and have gotten our bikes out so fitness shouldn't be hard to get in. My exercise today was a ton of gardening and yard work.
I'll be talking to you soon - below are some foods from my shopping trip today.
Turkey breast, peppercorn pork tenderloin (these are fast and yummy cooked up on the George Foreman), roasted chicken, turkey italian sausages (great in whole wheat spaghetti dinner), hummus, jicama (my 1st time ever buying it - wish me luck!), mushrooms, squash, eggplant, cherries, oranges, sweet potatoes, whole wheat pitas, fresh ground almond butter, eggs, peppers, onions, no sugar added applesauce, lite yogurt, spinach, and so much more.
I went on my regular Sunday grocery store expedition a few hours ago. I felt so proud when I got to the check out stand and half of my cart was fresh produce. I don't think there was a single non-clean food on the conveyor belt. I took a picture of a sample of the items I bought and will be uploading it shortly. I've also listed some items below. I noticed that over the past few weeks I've slacked on bringing my cooler of 5 small meals to work and most of the fresh veggies were withering away in the bottom of the crisper. Poor veggies! In an effort to keep that from happening, I took about 45 minutes after I got home to prep a ton of food. I cut up all kinds of veggies, made hard boiled eggs, etc. Now the fridge is full of great foods just waiting within an arms reach. I made a salad for dinner and asked Pete if he wanted green onions on his - he said "nah, that's too much work". I then said "nope - they're already chopped up right in this container - want some?!". It's so convenient when it's all ready and just waiting to be eaten. Almost more convenient than a fast food drive thru!
I will be attempting to write to the blog more often but I can't make any promises. It's definitely at the top of my list though. I may actually begin posting some of my daily food journals for you to check out. I can't wait for tomorrow's weigh in so I can get my new baseline. First goal is 5 lbs down. I also have to work really hard this next week to get all of my water in. We're having nice weather and have gotten our bikes out so fitness shouldn't be hard to get in. My exercise today was a ton of gardening and yard work.
I'll be talking to you soon - below are some foods from my shopping trip today.
Turkey breast, peppercorn pork tenderloin (these are fast and yummy cooked up on the George Foreman), roasted chicken, turkey italian sausages (great in whole wheat spaghetti dinner), hummus, jicama (my 1st time ever buying it - wish me luck!), mushrooms, squash, eggplant, cherries, oranges, sweet potatoes, whole wheat pitas, fresh ground almond butter, eggs, peppers, onions, no sugar added applesauce, lite yogurt, spinach, and so much more.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
Monday Update
Yes! I feel so motivated and excited to share this week's weigh in results. I lost 4 pounds last week which brings me back to where I was before my vacation. I didn't work out at all last week but I set a goal with Pete that we will work out at least 2 times this week. I am also on track for super clean eating. We baked a turkey breast last night and now we have it for lunch today. It's an excellent source of protein.
Pete is down to 184. This means he's only 6 pounds away from his goal of 178. Go Pete!
We're going to our aunt & uncle's beach house this weekend. There's lots of steep hills and stuff so I am going to run up and down them a few times a day to get some power bursts of fitness in while enjoying nature. Have a great and inspired week!
Pete is down to 184. This means he's only 6 pounds away from his goal of 178. Go Pete!
We're going to our aunt & uncle's beach house this weekend. There's lots of steep hills and stuff so I am going to run up and down them a few times a day to get some power bursts of fitness in while enjoying nature. Have a great and inspired week!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
I'm Baaaack!
I've been on vacation lately; both from eating clean AND blogging. For the first half of my vacation I went to Arizona to visit my parents. Eating healthy there was fairly easy because they had most of our meals planned out. My Dad has a celiac disease so he has to eat completely gluten free which, even though it is a terrible thing to have, it does have a few advantages (forces one to eat cleaner). You'd be surprised at what contains gluten. The safest bets not containing gluten are veggies, fruits, and meats - which are also all clean foods. We ate a lot of that - but I won't lie - there was a little candy and GF pineapple cake mixed in there, too. I didn't technically work out but we did do a little 4 wheeling, hiking around their steep mountainous property, and then one day I got ambitious and hauled boulers from the mountainside to their driveway. I wanted to contribute to their house since I didn't get to help with the build of it. So, my self imposed project was to take the rocks and line the looong driveway. It turned out so beautiful. It was very physical work yet so rewarding at the same time. So, that was my Arizona fitness and eating routine.
The California routine became quite different than the Arizona routine. I don't know what it is about theme parks but I feel constantly hungry when I'm there. We were at Disneyland and California Adventure for 3 entire days. What fun it was. We walked and walked and climbed stairs - hopefully it was enough exercise to burn off what I ate. Here's a not-so-brief summary of some of the things I put in my mouth (that I don't normally eat since I've gone clean) and enjoyed so much that I thought I'd died and gone to heaven. Biscuits and gravy, fish tacos, pizza, meatball sandwich, candy, multiple types of ice cream, fresh sourdough bread, churros, soda, pineapple floats, etc etc. I was so happy to be having all these treats yet my insides were reminding me of why I don't eat like that on a regular basis anymore. Man, it's good going in...and that's all I'll say about that!
I deliberately did not weigh myself when we got home because truthfully, I just didn't want to know what the damage was. I have to say, curiosity got the best of me and I stepped on the scale. The damage wasn't even worthy of being classified as damage. Yes, I gained a few pounds, but nothing major that won't come right off with a little extra work. I'm not going to beat myself up for enjoying my vacation but rather I am going to celebrate. I am celebrating the fact that when we got home I went straight to the store and bought only clean foods. I have also been eating a clean breakfast every morning and taking a clean lunch to work. Dinners are on track, too. The fact that I can jump right back into the swing of my new lifestyle gives me great confidence and pride.
I did want to provide an update on Pete as he is having extremely wonderful success and I couldn't be more proud of him. He told me a while back that at his heaviest - he once tipped the scales at 275 pounds. WHAT??!! My mind was boggled by that because in my eyes he never actually looked that heavy to me. Now looking back at pictures and having him point it out - I can see that he was definitely heavier than normal and at an unhealthy place. His goal since we started this journey was to be at 178. While I was in Arizona he texted me to let me know he weighed in somewhere around 180 or 182. All I know is that he was only a few small pounds away from the huge goal he had set for himself. He was the smallest he could ever remember being. Just thinking about what that means to him brings tears of joy to my eyes. The man has lost almost a hundred pounds over the past few years!!! 100!!! He is a true inspiration to me and he provides the support, motivation, and strength I need to get me to my goal as well. SO PROUD!
The California routine became quite different than the Arizona routine. I don't know what it is about theme parks but I feel constantly hungry when I'm there. We were at Disneyland and California Adventure for 3 entire days. What fun it was. We walked and walked and climbed stairs - hopefully it was enough exercise to burn off what I ate. Here's a not-so-brief summary of some of the things I put in my mouth (that I don't normally eat since I've gone clean) and enjoyed so much that I thought I'd died and gone to heaven. Biscuits and gravy, fish tacos, pizza, meatball sandwich, candy, multiple types of ice cream, fresh sourdough bread, churros, soda, pineapple floats, etc etc. I was so happy to be having all these treats yet my insides were reminding me of why I don't eat like that on a regular basis anymore. Man, it's good going in...and that's all I'll say about that!
I deliberately did not weigh myself when we got home because truthfully, I just didn't want to know what the damage was. I have to say, curiosity got the best of me and I stepped on the scale. The damage wasn't even worthy of being classified as damage. Yes, I gained a few pounds, but nothing major that won't come right off with a little extra work. I'm not going to beat myself up for enjoying my vacation but rather I am going to celebrate. I am celebrating the fact that when we got home I went straight to the store and bought only clean foods. I have also been eating a clean breakfast every morning and taking a clean lunch to work. Dinners are on track, too. The fact that I can jump right back into the swing of my new lifestyle gives me great confidence and pride.
I did want to provide an update on Pete as he is having extremely wonderful success and I couldn't be more proud of him. He told me a while back that at his heaviest - he once tipped the scales at 275 pounds. WHAT??!! My mind was boggled by that because in my eyes he never actually looked that heavy to me. Now looking back at pictures and having him point it out - I can see that he was definitely heavier than normal and at an unhealthy place. His goal since we started this journey was to be at 178. While I was in Arizona he texted me to let me know he weighed in somewhere around 180 or 182. All I know is that he was only a few small pounds away from the huge goal he had set for himself. He was the smallest he could ever remember being. Just thinking about what that means to him brings tears of joy to my eyes. The man has lost almost a hundred pounds over the past few years!!! 100!!! He is a true inspiration to me and he provides the support, motivation, and strength I need to get me to my goal as well. SO PROUD!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Great email from my DAD - he's SO wise in his young age!
I didn't realize he's been reading this blog - but I love what he just sent me. He's SO right. A positive outlook is key and that is my new goal - Remain positive!
"Anna the guilt on your eating clean blog isnt doing you any good, just because you didn't make a goal or meet your expectation. Being positive is the key,keep looking at the future always, if you dont do what you plan today maybe you can find a way do it tommorrow. Be positive, i am positive you can do what ever you want, beating yourself up just puts another obstical in your path. Love ya Dad"
"p.s. I am always watching"
"Anna the guilt on your eating clean blog isnt doing you any good, just because you didn't make a goal or meet your expectation. Being positive is the key,keep looking at the future always, if you dont do what you plan today maybe you can find a way do it tommorrow. Be positive, i am positive you can do what ever you want, beating yourself up just puts another obstical in your path. Love ya Dad"
"p.s. I am always watching"
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
New Version of the Serenity Prayer
I know - 2 posts in one day?! Amazing!!! I stumbled across this and it's now going to be posted all over my house. Love it!
God grant me the serenity
To make good food choices;
Courage to turn away from baked goods;
And energy to exercise daily.
Living healthy one day at a time;
Enjoying my journey;
Accepting that the road to wellness can be hard;
Taking the tools of better eating out into the world
As I should, free from the bad habits of the past;
Trusting that making wise decisions today will pay off tomorrow;
If I surrender to my will
I will not beat myself up in this life and the next
But I will remember that this is a life long journey;
A journey that is well worth every pound lost.
God grant me the serenity
To make good food choices;
Courage to turn away from baked goods;
And energy to exercise daily.
Living healthy one day at a time;
Enjoying my journey;
Accepting that the road to wellness can be hard;
Taking the tools of better eating out into the world
As I should, free from the bad habits of the past;
Trusting that making wise decisions today will pay off tomorrow;
If I surrender to my will
I will not beat myself up in this life and the next
But I will remember that this is a life long journey;
A journey that is well worth every pound lost.
A Day Late - weigh in
One thing I have managed to stay consistent in is my weekly Monday weigh in's (the only thing, actually). I forgot to post it yesterday though. I was down a half of a pound. Do you think the phrase "slow and steady wins the race" is actually true? I sure hope so.
I needed some new jeans for my upcoming vacation and so I went to the Rack on my lunch break. I am happy to report that I bought 2 pair of jeans - both a SIZE SMALLER than what I used to wear!!! WOO HOO!!!
I know this mentality doesn't make sense but I have been beating myself up day and night about not being 100% committed lately. I so desire to get back to giving it 100% but I can't seem to find the willpower. When I do find it, I am great all day or all week, then lose it that evening or by the weekend. Makes me feel like a loser - and not the good kind either. It's especially bad because all of a sudden Pete's weight loss is really showing. EVERYONE is commenting on it and raving over him. I am raving, too, because I am truly proud of him and I know he's healthier (and hotter, too). I just get sad because no one is saying those things about me and I feel like they are saying in their heads (he's lost all this weight - why hasn't his fat wife lost hers). Sad, huh. And embarassing! The worst part is, I only have myself to blame - because let's be honest here - I have NOT been giving it 100%. Had I been giving it 100%, I know people would be raving about me, too. You'd think that having this feeling would motivate me - but it actually only makes me want to wallow in self pity while choking down some Mickey D's. UGH UGH UGH!
I did just manage to find some new blogs that really speak to me. I've found other women in Massachussets, Melbourne, and the UK - all of which are struggling just like me. It's nice to know I am not alone.
Hopefully you will be seeing more of me here and less of me in person.... that is my goal......
I needed some new jeans for my upcoming vacation and so I went to the Rack on my lunch break. I am happy to report that I bought 2 pair of jeans - both a SIZE SMALLER than what I used to wear!!! WOO HOO!!!
I know this mentality doesn't make sense but I have been beating myself up day and night about not being 100% committed lately. I so desire to get back to giving it 100% but I can't seem to find the willpower. When I do find it, I am great all day or all week, then lose it that evening or by the weekend. Makes me feel like a loser - and not the good kind either. It's especially bad because all of a sudden Pete's weight loss is really showing. EVERYONE is commenting on it and raving over him. I am raving, too, because I am truly proud of him and I know he's healthier (and hotter, too). I just get sad because no one is saying those things about me and I feel like they are saying in their heads (he's lost all this weight - why hasn't his fat wife lost hers). Sad, huh. And embarassing! The worst part is, I only have myself to blame - because let's be honest here - I have NOT been giving it 100%. Had I been giving it 100%, I know people would be raving about me, too. You'd think that having this feeling would motivate me - but it actually only makes me want to wallow in self pity while choking down some Mickey D's. UGH UGH UGH!
I did just manage to find some new blogs that really speak to me. I've found other women in Massachussets, Melbourne, and the UK - all of which are struggling just like me. It's nice to know I am not alone.
Hopefully you will be seeing more of me here and less of me in person.... that is my goal......
Monday, March 22, 2010
Monday Weigh In
My blog posts may have dwindled but we've still been weighing in EVERY Monday. This morning - I am down 2 pounds!!!! I have finally taken off the 5 pounds I put on when I went to Vegas. This is a LONG, HARD journey - but I'm taking it 1 day at a time. I WILL get there. I WILL.
I am not sure of Pete's weigh in today but yesterday we had to go buy him some new work pants. We bought 34X30's which is a huge deal because at one time he was actually in 42X30's. He's come a long way and I am so proud. There are times I wish my job was as physical as his so my pounds would fly off, too. Sitting at a desk all day doesn't do anyone any good. But, I do have that trusty gym membership and will be continuing to put it to use. I love how I am actually able to flex and see my bicep muscles now ;)
I am not sure of Pete's weigh in today but yesterday we had to go buy him some new work pants. We bought 34X30's which is a huge deal because at one time he was actually in 42X30's. He's come a long way and I am so proud. There are times I wish my job was as physical as his so my pounds would fly off, too. Sitting at a desk all day doesn't do anyone any good. But, I do have that trusty gym membership and will be continuing to put it to use. I love how I am actually able to flex and see my bicep muscles now ;)
Monday, March 8, 2010
Update
I wanted to title this post "long time no talk" - but that definitely wouldn't work seeing that I've done that a few times already. Many of you have come to me asking why I haven't been posting. To be quite honest, I haven't had the mental capacity lately and my heart isn't all there for it. BUT - if you ask me, that's just an excuse. So, here I sit telling you (again) that I am going to try harder this week to make this blog more of a priority. I am also going to try to not let things I can't control get to me and take my focus away.
Speaking of focus, I got this book from the library yesterday called "shrink yourself". I happened upon it by chance. It is written by a famous psychologist and he talks about the devastating effects of emotional eating and how to break those bonds. I'll let you know how it turns out.
Last but not least - the weekly update. I am up one pound (just confirmation of my struggles) and Pete is down 2.5 pounds. I think his total lost since January is somewhere around 25 to 30 pounds which makes me so proud. Not to mention - he's getting hotter by the day! He has been my rock and what has kept me somewhat on track. With all the chaos and stress at work all I've wanted to do is come home and eat my way to relaxation and happiness. Thank God he hasn't let that happen. I'm so blessed to have him as my partner in getting healthy.
I just want to thank all of the regular readers of this blog who stay with me even when my posts lag. You stopping me in the hall or calling or emailing to ask why I am not making posts on a regular basis really does help hold me accountable and keep me on track. I kind of feel that old saying "it takes a village to raise a child" is playing out here. Only this time it is "it takes a village to help this girl reach her goals". And a lot of time & patience! I am truly appreciative of everyone's help and support.
Speaking of focus, I got this book from the library yesterday called "shrink yourself". I happened upon it by chance. It is written by a famous psychologist and he talks about the devastating effects of emotional eating and how to break those bonds. I'll let you know how it turns out.
Last but not least - the weekly update. I am up one pound (just confirmation of my struggles) and Pete is down 2.5 pounds. I think his total lost since January is somewhere around 25 to 30 pounds which makes me so proud. Not to mention - he's getting hotter by the day! He has been my rock and what has kept me somewhat on track. With all the chaos and stress at work all I've wanted to do is come home and eat my way to relaxation and happiness. Thank God he hasn't let that happen. I'm so blessed to have him as my partner in getting healthy.
I just want to thank all of the regular readers of this blog who stay with me even when my posts lag. You stopping me in the hall or calling or emailing to ask why I am not making posts on a regular basis really does help hold me accountable and keep me on track. I kind of feel that old saying "it takes a village to raise a child" is playing out here. Only this time it is "it takes a village to help this girl reach her goals". And a lot of time & patience! I am truly appreciative of everyone's help and support.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Hey There!
Long time no talk, AGAIN! I want to say I've missed blogging, but it isn't entirely true. I think that is because I've been struggling lately with the Eating Clean lifestyle. Come to think of it, I do miss blogging - but what I REALLY miss is having stuff to blog about. When I first started in January - I felt like every post came easy and flew onto the screen. I couldn't wait to make my next post. Now, blogging feels a lot harder. I am not kidding myself - I know it is because of my current situation and mindset. I do like the fact that many people have mentioned to me that they've been looking for blog updates and are disappointed to see that I have not been posting. That's a nice feeling in one way - yet I feel like I am letting the blog readers down, too.
There are many things contributing to this "off the bandwagon" ordeal that I am going through. The major issue is stress. There are a few areas of my life - and my personal home life is NOT one - where I feel immense amounts of stress and depression. I just feel like most days I have been in a pressure cooker all day long. Escaping the madness has been tough and I find myself turning to my old habits for comfort. Not a good thing. Pete's been doing a great job at not letting me give in at home (no pizza, no fast food, no dairy queen) - Thank Goodness.
I have also been struggling because we have not been planning ahead as well. I bought all of the same healthy items at the store but noticed a few days out of the week I "forgot" to pack them. We haven't been grilling up large amounts of chicken either, which was once my main easy staple.
My best friend is coming to visit in July. I have a goal to be 15 - 20 pounds lighter by then. I REALLY REALLY want to get there. Some days I just feel helpless in actually obtaining it. I was so depressed about it a few days ago that I told Pete maybe I should find an eater's 12 step program. He just looked at me like I was insane. For now, I am going to skim through the two books that got me excited in the first place in hopes that my spirit and enthusiasm will be renewed. I am also going to pack my lunches religiously next week.
One positive item of note: I still lost 2 pounds last week. Pete's lost a few more - his pants are falling off of him now. We're headed to our Group Weightlifting class tonight - I love it! Just gotta get my eating under control again.
Maybe I should take a note from these guys:
There are many things contributing to this "off the bandwagon" ordeal that I am going through. The major issue is stress. There are a few areas of my life - and my personal home life is NOT one - where I feel immense amounts of stress and depression. I just feel like most days I have been in a pressure cooker all day long. Escaping the madness has been tough and I find myself turning to my old habits for comfort. Not a good thing. Pete's been doing a great job at not letting me give in at home (no pizza, no fast food, no dairy queen) - Thank Goodness.
I have also been struggling because we have not been planning ahead as well. I bought all of the same healthy items at the store but noticed a few days out of the week I "forgot" to pack them. We haven't been grilling up large amounts of chicken either, which was once my main easy staple.
My best friend is coming to visit in July. I have a goal to be 15 - 20 pounds lighter by then. I REALLY REALLY want to get there. Some days I just feel helpless in actually obtaining it. I was so depressed about it a few days ago that I told Pete maybe I should find an eater's 12 step program. He just looked at me like I was insane. For now, I am going to skim through the two books that got me excited in the first place in hopes that my spirit and enthusiasm will be renewed. I am also going to pack my lunches religiously next week.
One positive item of note: I still lost 2 pounds last week. Pete's lost a few more - his pants are falling off of him now. We're headed to our Group Weightlifting class tonight - I love it! Just gotta get my eating under control again.
Maybe I should take a note from these guys:
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Workout Update
Since one of my goals this week is to work out 3 times - I decided to track my workouts here. Pete and I went to our usual weightlifting class last night - OUCH! Afterwards we ran over half a mile (which is tough when your legs already feel like jello). Thursday is that class again. I may do a cardio kickboxing class between now and then. One down, 2 more to go. YES!!
Oh, and I weighed myself again today - looks like I already lost those 2 pounds from this week's weigh in. I have resolved not to weigh anymore until next Monday. We'll see......
Oh, and I weighed myself again today - looks like I already lost those 2 pounds from this week's weigh in. I have resolved not to weigh anymore until next Monday. We'll see......
Monday, February 15, 2010
Off the Wagon Confessional
Yep, as most of you guys may have guessed, I briefly fell off the Eating Clean wagon. :( It started about 2 weeks ago when I had a two day offsite meeting at work. The organizer (thanks Molly!) did a really great job at having healthy foods available but I began to splurge a little (a 2 bite brownie, diet coke, etc). Then, at the end of that week I had to fly to Vegas for a funeral. I got off the plane and went straight to In N Out burger. I ate pretty well the rest of that day and the next morning I had egg whites and fruit for breakfast. The hard part was sticking to eating every few hours and I definitely didn't get my water in. Who wants to have to go to the bathroom numerous times on an airline flight?! Not me! My friend Janelle and I went to a 5 star meal at a fancy French restaurant on Saturday night which really put me over the edge.
Once I got back, I had no desire to eat clean. Once again, all I wanted was junk - I felt like I was on a binge. McDonald's burrito for breakfast one day, pizza and m exican food for lunch a few days, definitely not enough water. UGH!!! How quickly I can get out of control. I even had some chocolate a few days at work. I don't know what it is - once I slide off track, it is a slippery downhill slope for me.
This weekend we went to the coast for a mini vacation. Pete advised me that Westport has a small donut shop and they're the best donuts in the WORLD!!! So, we had that for breakfast on Sunday. Then, on the drive home we had hot dogs. Dinner was Thai food. Needless to say, after a month of strict eating clean, our bodies were in full rejection mode. NOT FUN!!!
We both resolved that that binge is over and we have to get back on track. This morning's weigh in just reinforces that fact. In the past 2 weeks - I am UP 5 pounds. Do you know how hard it was for me to lose 5 pounds in the first place? I am so mad at myself! But, the good news is, I know that once I get back on track, those pounds will go away along with some more. Agh - the up's and down's of getting healthy.
I seem to do better when I set goals for myself (duh!). So, this week's goal is to work out 3 times this week, eat clean every day, get my water in, and blog 3 times this week. Did you notice how my blogging tapered off as I fell off the bandwagon, yeah, that's no coincidence.
I will be talking to you soon and keeping you posted.
Once I got back, I had no desire to eat clean. Once again, all I wanted was junk - I felt like I was on a binge. McDonald's burrito for breakfast one day, pizza and m exican food for lunch a few days, definitely not enough water. UGH!!! How quickly I can get out of control. I even had some chocolate a few days at work. I don't know what it is - once I slide off track, it is a slippery downhill slope for me.
This weekend we went to the coast for a mini vacation. Pete advised me that Westport has a small donut shop and they're the best donuts in the WORLD!!! So, we had that for breakfast on Sunday. Then, on the drive home we had hot dogs. Dinner was Thai food. Needless to say, after a month of strict eating clean, our bodies were in full rejection mode. NOT FUN!!!
We both resolved that that binge is over and we have to get back on track. This morning's weigh in just reinforces that fact. In the past 2 weeks - I am UP 5 pounds. Do you know how hard it was for me to lose 5 pounds in the first place? I am so mad at myself! But, the good news is, I know that once I get back on track, those pounds will go away along with some more. Agh - the up's and down's of getting healthy.
I seem to do better when I set goals for myself (duh!). So, this week's goal is to work out 3 times this week, eat clean every day, get my water in, and blog 3 times this week. Did you notice how my blogging tapered off as I fell off the bandwagon, yeah, that's no coincidence.
I will be talking to you soon and keeping you posted.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Long time no talk!
Whew! What a whirlwind past week it has been. Work was insanely busy last week then on Friday morning, I hopped on a plane to Vegas and spent the weekend there. That was difficult for me. I didn't get nearly enough water in, I barely ate 2 meals a day and when I did eat, they weren't as "clean" as I'd hope for. I mean, as much as I tried to justify In-n-Out burger as being clean, we all know that ISN'T the case! I must say, though, that I noticed that I still didn't eat as much and I didn't crave sweets like I had before.
Today is get-back-on-track-and-buckle-down day. I am working out tonight and packing my cooler of 5 small healthy meals for work. It feels good to just jump back in right where I left off.
As for it being weekly weigh-in day, Pete lost a half a pound last week and I GAINED back the three I lost last week. It's a bit of a bummer but to be honest, I expected this to happen because of the trip. It's just more of an incentive to buckle down beginning today.
I am also resolved to get back to journaling more regularly (a.k.a. this blog) - I find it is a tremendous help for me.
Talk to you soon!
Today is get-back-on-track-and-buckle-down day. I am working out tonight and packing my cooler of 5 small healthy meals for work. It feels good to just jump back in right where I left off.
As for it being weekly weigh-in day, Pete lost a half a pound last week and I GAINED back the three I lost last week. It's a bit of a bummer but to be honest, I expected this to happen because of the trip. It's just more of an incentive to buckle down beginning today.
I am also resolved to get back to journaling more regularly (a.k.a. this blog) - I find it is a tremendous help for me.
Talk to you soon!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Email from Tosca!!!!!
Tosca Reno, the author of Clean Eating finally emailed me back!!! I am so excited!
Monday, February 1, 2010
Weekly Weigh In
Oh glorious day! It has been one month since I began posting to the blog. I've managed to make 27 posts in that time - I am really proud of this blog and how it has already been a big help to me and others I know.
I started out in January with no big lofty goals - just the small goal of losing 5 pounds. I lost the 5 pounds and set another goal of 5 more pounds. About a week ago I started dreaming of how wonderful it would be if I lost 10 pounds in January. Well, I MADE THAT GOAL!!! Today I weighed in 3 pounds lighter. I am just so happy. Not only did I meet my second goal of 5 pounds down but I also lost 10 pounds overall in January. I am over the moon. Pete is down 4.5 pounds this week for a total of 19 pounds! I just can't even believe it. A friend of ours came up to Pete yesterday and told him that he's looking really good - and he is. His belly is shrinking so rapidly.
I am just so proud of what we're accomplishing and all that comes along with it. I am proud that these days I crave water instead of soda or juice and that I actually like to go work out. This life is a much better version than where we were at just one month ago.
They say it only takes 21 days to form new habits. Looks as though our new habit is eating clean and living a healthy lifestyle. This journey is really amazing and I am so thankful for all the support we have.....
I started out in January with no big lofty goals - just the small goal of losing 5 pounds. I lost the 5 pounds and set another goal of 5 more pounds. About a week ago I started dreaming of how wonderful it would be if I lost 10 pounds in January. Well, I MADE THAT GOAL!!! Today I weighed in 3 pounds lighter. I am just so happy. Not only did I meet my second goal of 5 pounds down but I also lost 10 pounds overall in January. I am over the moon. Pete is down 4.5 pounds this week for a total of 19 pounds! I just can't even believe it. A friend of ours came up to Pete yesterday and told him that he's looking really good - and he is. His belly is shrinking so rapidly.
I am just so proud of what we're accomplishing and all that comes along with it. I am proud that these days I crave water instead of soda or juice and that I actually like to go work out. This life is a much better version than where we were at just one month ago.
They say it only takes 21 days to form new habits. Looks as though our new habit is eating clean and living a healthy lifestyle. This journey is really amazing and I am so thankful for all the support we have.....
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Dinner Tonight
Pete grilled some salmon and at the last minute he basted it with teriyaki. Oh man, I usually don't like salmon but now I am in love. I could eat this once a week. We had it with a side of baked sweet potato, pears, and spinach salad. Speaking of salad - I have now cut out adding olive oil to my salad. Now I just have a splash of balsamic and it's perfect. I can't even tell the difference actually.
Tomorrow is weigh in day - can't wait to let you know what happens! :)
Tomorrow is weigh in day - can't wait to let you know what happens! :)
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Validation
Well, life has been pretty stressful lately so earlier in the week I booked myself a massage for today. I figured that since my insurance covers it - I might as well. I walked in today to meet Teresa, my massage therapist. She was so awesome. She used a technique on me that I've never experienced before called "cupping". She puts these glass cups on your skin and they have a little bulb on the end that she squeezes to create suction. Then, she moves them around all over the back, arms, legs, etc. It's a really strange yet relaxing sensation. At the end of the massage we were talking about it and she told me that she thought that I ate really healthy and asked if that was the case. I said yes and asked what made her think that. She went on to explain that during cupping she can tell a lot about a person's health and such things as how they eat, if they smoke or drink, and if they have cancer. Apparently the way the skin looks while being suctioned in the cup is an indication of these things. The skin could turn yellow, purple, deep red, or black. I am not sure how mine looked (it must've been good) but she said that my skin looks great and I have a very healthy complexion. SCORE!!!! Must be all the clean foods and large amounts of water I have been taking in. What a nice validation that she told me that she can tell I eat healthy and I've never talked to her about my lifestyle before.
I can tell Pete is a little bitter that I ate pizza and he didn't because he said "guess she didn't see the pizza". hahaha! His time will come where he eats something bad, too. It's just funny how when you go on this journey together, one person feels slighted if the other veers off course. I know I'd be jealous if I knew he had eaten some cake or chocolate!
I can tell Pete is a little bitter that I ate pizza and he didn't because he said "guess she didn't see the pizza". hahaha! His time will come where he eats something bad, too. It's just funny how when you go on this journey together, one person feels slighted if the other veers off course. I know I'd be jealous if I knew he had eaten some cake or chocolate!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Struggling
AGGGHHH! I am so mad at myself right now. I packed my lunch full of healthy foods today and I ate a healthy breakfast and a healthy snack – both on schedule. I’ve been drinking all my water. Lunch time rolls around and we have a big multi-departmental meeting and they’ve ordered pizza. Oh no! Well, I thought about taking my lunch in there but who wants to be the schmuck eating their own little meal out of a plastic container when everyone else is eating the lunch that was graciously provided by the company. I thought about waiting to eat after the meeting – but I was starving and the smell overcame me. Guess who just ate not one, but TWO slices of pizza. They were thin crust with pepperoni and sausage. UGH!!!
I am not happy about this and I knew I’d feel this way (although it WAS incredibly yummy going down). Pete’s gonna be pissed and the last thing I want to do is be responsible for him getting weak too, I feel like little by little, my willpower is slipping and I am injecting bad meals into my diet more frequently (Olive Garden – now pizza). I need to get a handle on this. I also need to get my butt to the gym tonight and work off some of the extra calories. Man, letting yourself down (and your readers) is not a good feeling. Better luck with better choices beginning now……. I think I will also re-read parts of “Never Say Diet Again” to give myself some encouragement.
p.s. I did have one victory in all this - I wanted so badly to keep this little "secret" to myself but instead - I let you all know right away. Afterall, the whole purpose of this blog is to keep it "real"......
I am not happy about this and I knew I’d feel this way (although it WAS incredibly yummy going down). Pete’s gonna be pissed and the last thing I want to do is be responsible for him getting weak too, I feel like little by little, my willpower is slipping and I am injecting bad meals into my diet more frequently (Olive Garden – now pizza). I need to get a handle on this. I also need to get my butt to the gym tonight and work off some of the extra calories. Man, letting yourself down (and your readers) is not a good feeling. Better luck with better choices beginning now……. I think I will also re-read parts of “Never Say Diet Again” to give myself some encouragement.
p.s. I did have one victory in all this - I wanted so badly to keep this little "secret" to myself but instead - I let you all know right away. Afterall, the whole purpose of this blog is to keep it "real"......
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Trials
It has been a hard past few days. On top of me and the family being sick and work being stressful, I found out that someone I've known since high school shot and killed himself on Monday. I wasn't close to him in recent times but I am close to his cousins and aunt. I've never personally known anyone who has taken their own life, especially in such a dramatic an painful way. I have always felt that one of my spiritual "gifts" was the way that I love people and provide caring and non-judgmental support. I have been put to the test with the use of this gift the past days. I've had countless calls from my long time friend who is like a brother to the person that did this. I am honored to be one of the special people he is confiding in to help bear the weight of this huge and heavy burden, but it is taking its toll on me, too. Night before last I don't think I even slept an hour. My mind races constantly with non stop visions and instant replays in my mind. My heart aches and aches for the wonderful family he left behind to clean up this mess (lliterally and philosophically) and as they struggle to make it through each day that passes. The big question - WHY - WHY - WHY. No one will ever know WHY exactly and sometimes the not knowing is as painfull as the loss itself. So, I will continue to be the support my friend needs and happily help in any way I can. This is also the first test of many in seeing how I handle major hurdles in life as I try to ensure it doesn't negatively affect my new healthy lifestyle.
So, I told you before that I eat to feed my emotions sometimes. Yesterday was particularly painful and hard for me. I felt like I floated through the day in a complete brain fog. I was emotionally drained. Well, what do you think happened at dinner time? I ate at Olive Garden. The scene was a little different than it had been in the past. Water with lemon instead of diet coke, only one serving of salad, only a breadstick and a half versus 4, and a shared main entree instead of the whole thing - and NO tiramisu. I wasn't completely happy about it once I looked at the nutritional info (note: probably 1000 calories all together) but I could at least still see the changes I've made linger throughout the meal. At any rate, by the time we got to church 45 minutes later - my belly was in immense pain. I still have some leftover heart burn this morning.
Before we had gone to dinner Pete and I had a discussion about this being a "test" for us. Normally at this point in our eating changes - we'd decide to go out to dinner and end up eating bad. Next thing you know, we're doing it 2 times a week, then 3, then 5. Well, we made a verbal commitment that we would NOT be doing that this time. It's okay to splurge every now and then. Eat one bad meal, enjoy it, but MOVE ON! So, that's what we're doing. Back to clean eating on a schedule with tons of water. I will tell you this though - we pulled into the driveway and I said to Pete "listen, if I ever tell you I miss Olive Garden and just HAVE to have it - please remind me of this conversation and of how bad it made me feel. I hate it when I have a moment where my stoomach feels like it is ripping itself out of my body. Not to mention that I could've made a clean pasta dish and my own salad that would've tasted just as good and didn't hurt at all." He just laughed and said "okay - but remember you told me to remind you - don't get mad at me when I do it". Trust me, I will remember this. And I will remember how much better and satisfying it is to eat healthy foods.
One last thing - I know I have harped on the fact that I was never a water drinker. Well, now that it's been almost a full month of clean eating and huge water intake, my body is actually craving it. For the first time ever, I actually reach for water first without even thinking about it. That's a small miracle for me!
In closing, I just want everyone to think about the story I opened this post with. It truly is a stark reminder of how short and precious this life we've been given really is. Now is a great time to tell each and every person that's close to you how important they are to you and that their life does matter. You never know, it may just be the very thing they need to hear at that very moment.
So, I told you before that I eat to feed my emotions sometimes. Yesterday was particularly painful and hard for me. I felt like I floated through the day in a complete brain fog. I was emotionally drained. Well, what do you think happened at dinner time? I ate at Olive Garden. The scene was a little different than it had been in the past. Water with lemon instead of diet coke, only one serving of salad, only a breadstick and a half versus 4, and a shared main entree instead of the whole thing - and NO tiramisu. I wasn't completely happy about it once I looked at the nutritional info (note: probably 1000 calories all together) but I could at least still see the changes I've made linger throughout the meal. At any rate, by the time we got to church 45 minutes later - my belly was in immense pain. I still have some leftover heart burn this morning.
Before we had gone to dinner Pete and I had a discussion about this being a "test" for us. Normally at this point in our eating changes - we'd decide to go out to dinner and end up eating bad. Next thing you know, we're doing it 2 times a week, then 3, then 5. Well, we made a verbal commitment that we would NOT be doing that this time. It's okay to splurge every now and then. Eat one bad meal, enjoy it, but MOVE ON! So, that's what we're doing. Back to clean eating on a schedule with tons of water. I will tell you this though - we pulled into the driveway and I said to Pete "listen, if I ever tell you I miss Olive Garden and just HAVE to have it - please remind me of this conversation and of how bad it made me feel. I hate it when I have a moment where my stoomach feels like it is ripping itself out of my body. Not to mention that I could've made a clean pasta dish and my own salad that would've tasted just as good and didn't hurt at all." He just laughed and said "okay - but remember you told me to remind you - don't get mad at me when I do it". Trust me, I will remember this. And I will remember how much better and satisfying it is to eat healthy foods.
One last thing - I know I have harped on the fact that I was never a water drinker. Well, now that it's been almost a full month of clean eating and huge water intake, my body is actually craving it. For the first time ever, I actually reach for water first without even thinking about it. That's a small miracle for me!
In closing, I just want everyone to think about the story I opened this post with. It truly is a stark reminder of how short and precious this life we've been given really is. Now is a great time to tell each and every person that's close to you how important they are to you and that their life does matter. You never know, it may just be the very thing they need to hear at that very moment.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Dry Salad?
Well, I hate dry salad. In the “olden days” (pre eating clean lifestyle change) I’d have smothered my salad in some fat laden creamy dressing like ranch or caesar. Not anymore. Now days it is a tiny drizzle of olive oil and a splash of vinegar – mostly balsamic.
Normally, with great focus on the details, I pack my lunch each night for the following day. I organize and pack for each meal taking great care to watch portion size and ensure I accurately pair a protein with a complex carb while getting in enough fruits and veggies. Most of the time I have some sort of spinach salad for lunch. I ALWAYS – I repeat – ALWAYS pack a small amount of oil and vinegar. Last night must’ve been the exception to the rule. I did manage to pack 2 cutie oranges instead of the usual one, though (brain was still in a flu like haze). So, needless to say, I start to unpack my lunch and it dawns on me that I will be eating a DRY salad. Dang it. My heart sunk to the floor and it felt like someone killed my cat. Oh, did I forget to tell you how utterly dramatic I can be at times??! Maybe it wasn’t that bad – but for a split second it made me think – who needs a salad anyways – maybe I can run to Burger King. EEEK! (that’s the sound of tires squealing as I slam on the brakes). For goodness sakes. How long is it going to be before I stop using every let down as an excuse to taint my body with terrible foods??? I Can say this – in the “olden days” I would’ve not thought twice and acted on every not-so-clever idea my brain threw my way. Not these days – I tossed the bad thought into the trash can and put on my MacGyver hat. Yep, little miss resourceful decided that she didn’t need to eat that extra cutie orange so she squeezed it all over that poor, helpless, dry salad and ate it all up. YUM! Improvised salad dressing really can be quite tasty and healthy if you just give it a chance.
Normally, with great focus on the details, I pack my lunch each night for the following day. I organize and pack for each meal taking great care to watch portion size and ensure I accurately pair a protein with a complex carb while getting in enough fruits and veggies. Most of the time I have some sort of spinach salad for lunch. I ALWAYS – I repeat – ALWAYS pack a small amount of oil and vinegar. Last night must’ve been the exception to the rule. I did manage to pack 2 cutie oranges instead of the usual one, though (brain was still in a flu like haze). So, needless to say, I start to unpack my lunch and it dawns on me that I will be eating a DRY salad. Dang it. My heart sunk to the floor and it felt like someone killed my cat. Oh, did I forget to tell you how utterly dramatic I can be at times??! Maybe it wasn’t that bad – but for a split second it made me think – who needs a salad anyways – maybe I can run to Burger King. EEEK! (that’s the sound of tires squealing as I slam on the brakes). For goodness sakes. How long is it going to be before I stop using every let down as an excuse to taint my body with terrible foods??? I Can say this – in the “olden days” I would’ve not thought twice and acted on every not-so-clever idea my brain threw my way. Not these days – I tossed the bad thought into the trash can and put on my MacGyver hat. Yep, little miss resourceful decided that she didn’t need to eat that extra cutie orange so she squeezed it all over that poor, helpless, dry salad and ate it all up. YUM! Improvised salad dressing really can be quite tasty and healthy if you just give it a chance.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Weekly Weigh In and Weekend Re-cap
Hey there,
Well, this morning is quite challenging for me. Late yesterday afternoon I came down with some sort of bug. Sore throat, fever, chills, aches and pains, etc. I slept under a blazing hot electric blanket all night and still couldn't get warm. Pete says it felt like he was sleeping in fire all night.
As for the weekend, we found ourselves very busy around the house and I realized that I did not eat every 2 - 3 hours nor did I take in enough water. On Saturday, I looked at the clock only to find that it was 4pm and I had only eaten an egg white breakfast burrito earlier that day. I was completely starving and ready to eat ANYTHING that came my way. I even purposed going to Olive Garden. I tried justifying it by saying that I would get whole wheat pasta and the dish I like had lots of veggies in it - WHAT?!!! Thank goodness Pete stood his ground and said no way. We ended up going to Outback where I had the tiniest and leanest steak and a dry baked sweet potato. Turns out that was really satisfying and I left happy again.
So I am sure you're thinking "get to the weight loss already!" Well, it's not as great as I had hoped but a loss is a loss is a loss so I will take it. This also makes me want get back on track this week and really stick to the plan as tightly as possible. I did work out this weekend and I was set to go again tonight but if I continue to feel terrible, I will wait another day.
Anywho - my weight loss was a half of a pound and Pete's was 2 pounds! Way to go guy!
I also promised a few people that I would not weigh every day so my goal this week is to not weigh again until next Monday...
I'll keep you posted.....
Well, this morning is quite challenging for me. Late yesterday afternoon I came down with some sort of bug. Sore throat, fever, chills, aches and pains, etc. I slept under a blazing hot electric blanket all night and still couldn't get warm. Pete says it felt like he was sleeping in fire all night.
As for the weekend, we found ourselves very busy around the house and I realized that I did not eat every 2 - 3 hours nor did I take in enough water. On Saturday, I looked at the clock only to find that it was 4pm and I had only eaten an egg white breakfast burrito earlier that day. I was completely starving and ready to eat ANYTHING that came my way. I even purposed going to Olive Garden. I tried justifying it by saying that I would get whole wheat pasta and the dish I like had lots of veggies in it - WHAT?!!! Thank goodness Pete stood his ground and said no way. We ended up going to Outback where I had the tiniest and leanest steak and a dry baked sweet potato. Turns out that was really satisfying and I left happy again.
So I am sure you're thinking "get to the weight loss already!" Well, it's not as great as I had hoped but a loss is a loss is a loss so I will take it. This also makes me want get back on track this week and really stick to the plan as tightly as possible. I did work out this weekend and I was set to go again tonight but if I continue to feel terrible, I will wait another day.
Anywho - my weight loss was a half of a pound and Pete's was 2 pounds! Way to go guy!
I also promised a few people that I would not weigh every day so my goal this week is to not weigh again until next Monday...
I'll keep you posted.....
Friday, January 22, 2010
Weighing Daily
I’ve heard varying theories about weighing yourself every day. Most people say only to weigh once a week and others say weighing daily will help you stay on track even better. I’d like to weigh once a week but honestly, I’ve gotten quite addicted to weighing myself every day. Here’s the routine: wake up, run to the downstairs bathroom (where the scale lives), go to the restroom, strip off all my clothes (clothes can weigh up to 3 pounds) and jump on the scale. My mind set is pretty good about it and I am well aware of how much your weight can fluctuate based on what you eat, your sleep, what you did the day before, etc. I never place to much emphasis on the daily weight – it is more of just something to do and look forward to, regardless of the outcome. All of my emphasis goes into the Monday weight where I track week over week progress. I will say though, that if the number went up – it encourages me to eat extra smart that day.
This past Monday I had lost 2 pounds from the previous week. Then on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, my weight stayed exactly the same as did my eating habits. In all honesty – I did start to wonder “uh oh, is this not going to work anymore”? I also took a hard look at EVERYTHING I had been putting in my mouth which was actually encouraging. I knew with 110% certainty that I had done everything right – I’ve even began exercise which is key for me and a big accomplishment since I had convinced myself I hated it. So, I decided not to worry and just stay the course and see what happens. Low and behold, the scale was down 2 pounds this morning. HALLELUJAH! Just proof that staying the course works. I am close to meeting my goal of another 5 pounds down which, if I succeed by the end of January, I will have lost 10 pounds in the first month of 2010! Woo Hoo!
Oh yeah, and as for me hating water and exercise, that was just the negativity and lazy person in my mind talking. I am finding that I am loving both and have actually been thinking to myself that I can’t wait to work out again. It’s weird but it is like I am enjoying challenging myself and putting my body to the test to see exactly what it’s capable of.
This past Monday I had lost 2 pounds from the previous week. Then on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, my weight stayed exactly the same as did my eating habits. In all honesty – I did start to wonder “uh oh, is this not going to work anymore”? I also took a hard look at EVERYTHING I had been putting in my mouth which was actually encouraging. I knew with 110% certainty that I had done everything right – I’ve even began exercise which is key for me and a big accomplishment since I had convinced myself I hated it. So, I decided not to worry and just stay the course and see what happens. Low and behold, the scale was down 2 pounds this morning. HALLELUJAH! Just proof that staying the course works. I am close to meeting my goal of another 5 pounds down which, if I succeed by the end of January, I will have lost 10 pounds in the first month of 2010! Woo Hoo!
Oh yeah, and as for me hating water and exercise, that was just the negativity and lazy person in my mind talking. I am finding that I am loving both and have actually been thinking to myself that I can’t wait to work out again. It’s weird but it is like I am enjoying challenging myself and putting my body to the test to see exactly what it’s capable of.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Superbowl XL
Just because it’s Superbowl XL this year does not mean you have to feel XL after the big game. I think this can be considered one of the major “eating” holidays of the year alongside Thanksgiving and Christmas which means it will take some thought and prep work ahead of time in order to stay on track.
Here are some thoughts to consider about Superbowl:
• 11.2 million pounds of potato chips are sold for game time snacking
• 8.2 million pounds of tortilla chips make it to parties across the nation
• 30 million pounds of food will be consumed during the 4 quarters of the game
• 4 million pounds of fat is eaten while grown men in padded suits pummel each other in attempts to win a ring. (WHAT?!!)
We have decided to host a family party at our house for the big game this year. Coincidence? I think not. Having a party at my house means I can control the food and ensure it fits into our clean eating lifestyle. I can also get some extra exercise in by deep cleaning the house beforehand. The game doesn’t start until 3pm so I have set a tiny goal of hitting the gym that morning, too. All part of a winning strategy.
Here are some of my menu ideas for the party:
• Turkey Chili served with low fat sharp cheddar cheese, diced onions, and fat free sour cream (which is surprisingly quite tasty)
• Hardboiled eggs filled with hummus instead of crushed egg yolks (Costco sells a wonderful hummus – really cheap)
• Sliced veggies with hummus (all colors of bell pepper, carrots, celery, tomatoes)
• Baked chips with chunky veggie filled salsa
• Fresh fruit kabobs with a low fat pina colada yogurt for dipping
• Oven fried zucchini sticks with marinara
• Mini angel food cakes with berry reduction
• Light beer for the guys
Anyone else have any other ideas???
UPDATE: My healthy friend Stacey sent over these ideas:
Guacamole: healthy fat and would go great with your chips. Made from scratch there is no added sour cream.
Ground turkey meatballs with an apricot / honey glaze. Or –
Baked chicken wing with the sauce as an alternative to buffalo wings. (could even make it spicy apricot glaze.)
Roasted Turkey wraps: made on whole wheat, spinach or sun dried tomato tortillas (trader joes). Low fat cheese, tomato, red onion, green leaf lettuce, sprouts, whatever you like and a vinegrette dressing in place of mayo or cream cheese.
Here are some thoughts to consider about Superbowl:
• 11.2 million pounds of potato chips are sold for game time snacking
• 8.2 million pounds of tortilla chips make it to parties across the nation
• 30 million pounds of food will be consumed during the 4 quarters of the game
• 4 million pounds of fat is eaten while grown men in padded suits pummel each other in attempts to win a ring. (WHAT?!!)
We have decided to host a family party at our house for the big game this year. Coincidence? I think not. Having a party at my house means I can control the food and ensure it fits into our clean eating lifestyle. I can also get some extra exercise in by deep cleaning the house beforehand. The game doesn’t start until 3pm so I have set a tiny goal of hitting the gym that morning, too. All part of a winning strategy.
Here are some of my menu ideas for the party:
• Turkey Chili served with low fat sharp cheddar cheese, diced onions, and fat free sour cream (which is surprisingly quite tasty)
• Hardboiled eggs filled with hummus instead of crushed egg yolks (Costco sells a wonderful hummus – really cheap)
• Sliced veggies with hummus (all colors of bell pepper, carrots, celery, tomatoes)
• Baked chips with chunky veggie filled salsa
• Fresh fruit kabobs with a low fat pina colada yogurt for dipping
• Oven fried zucchini sticks with marinara
• Mini angel food cakes with berry reduction
• Light beer for the guys
Anyone else have any other ideas???
UPDATE: My healthy friend Stacey sent over these ideas:
Guacamole: healthy fat and would go great with your chips. Made from scratch there is no added sour cream.
Ground turkey meatballs with an apricot / honey glaze. Or –
Baked chicken wing with the sauce as an alternative to buffalo wings. (could even make it spicy apricot glaze.)
Roasted Turkey wraps: made on whole wheat, spinach or sun dried tomato tortillas (trader joes). Low fat cheese, tomato, red onion, green leaf lettuce, sprouts, whatever you like and a vinegrette dressing in place of mayo or cream cheese.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
The Food Advisor
I came across this great application that will analyze your current food intake. Not sure how accurate it reallyis but it came out pretty good for me. My percentages were 92% healthy foods - 8% not healthy. They say it should be at LEAST 75% healthy - 25% all others. Try it for yourself!
http://whfoods.org/foodadvisor.php
http://whfoods.org/foodadvisor.php
Addictions
This morning I was listening to a talk radio show on my drive in to work. They were talking about cigarettes and various methods people use to get off of them. One caller used a drug called Chantix which she said was a lifesaver and helped her quit smoking after 30 years. A second caller also used Chantix but fell victim to terrible side effects once she got off the drug. She experienced a deep depression and suicidal thoughts – she said she felt like the drug took a year of her life away from her. They all went on to try to explain why they were addicted to cigarettes and why it was so hard to quit.
I’ve never been into cigarettes. I have only tried it once and I thought it was disgusting. I also grew up in a tiny house and my Mom smoked inside. I never realized how bad that could really be until I started dating and the guy asked me why I smelled of cigarettes so badly. How mortifying! That traumatized me in a way and I think it made the thought of smoking even more gross to me.
So you’re wondering why I am talking about cigarettes, right? Well, they say it is one of the worst addictions one could possibly face. I can totally relate because I am a recovering food addict. Sounds silly, right? It actually isn’t. When people talk about their various addictions or I watch Intervention (love that show) I just feel like I’ve walked a mile in those people’s shoes. Food may not be as deadly as cigarettes, alcohol, or heroin, but it IS deadly if it is not consumed properly. Heart disease caused by poor eating habits and a lack of fitness is one of the leading causes of death in our country. And let me tell you, when you struggle with poor eating habits your whole life, getting on track and sticking to healthy eating is just as much of a struggle as quitting drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes. I know it sounds dramatic and many people will not be able to relate – but it is a reality. My reality and the reality for many people I know. So, as I was listening to the radio show I did think of how lucky I am to have access to supportive friends and family, a gym, and healthy food. I am also thankful that I was able to finally dig deep in myself, get the willpower I needed, formulate a plan and stick to it – but most of all I am thankful that I didn’t need to rely on a drug with terrible side effects to get me on the right track.
One last thought – last night we took Jordan to the pool so we could get some exercise and have some fun. Now, that I’ve become hyper aware of the importance of healthy habits, I noticed that half of the kids at the pool were really overweight. I talk about this out of love and concern – never judgment upon anyone. After all, who am I to judge anyone about this? I am still new to the journey and have a LONG way to go. It did strike a chord with me and as the big kids splashed by us, my heart ached because I can only imagine the life of pain and ridicule they are and will continue to endure. It just made me all the more determined to instill healthy habits into my son now so that he will never have to face those challenges. Life will throw him many curveballs and I’d rather take the steps now to prevent one like that from occurring. The key is – it IS preventable. It just takes time, thought, effort, and consistency.
Until next time my friends….
I’ve never been into cigarettes. I have only tried it once and I thought it was disgusting. I also grew up in a tiny house and my Mom smoked inside. I never realized how bad that could really be until I started dating and the guy asked me why I smelled of cigarettes so badly. How mortifying! That traumatized me in a way and I think it made the thought of smoking even more gross to me.
So you’re wondering why I am talking about cigarettes, right? Well, they say it is one of the worst addictions one could possibly face. I can totally relate because I am a recovering food addict. Sounds silly, right? It actually isn’t. When people talk about their various addictions or I watch Intervention (love that show) I just feel like I’ve walked a mile in those people’s shoes. Food may not be as deadly as cigarettes, alcohol, or heroin, but it IS deadly if it is not consumed properly. Heart disease caused by poor eating habits and a lack of fitness is one of the leading causes of death in our country. And let me tell you, when you struggle with poor eating habits your whole life, getting on track and sticking to healthy eating is just as much of a struggle as quitting drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes. I know it sounds dramatic and many people will not be able to relate – but it is a reality. My reality and the reality for many people I know. So, as I was listening to the radio show I did think of how lucky I am to have access to supportive friends and family, a gym, and healthy food. I am also thankful that I was able to finally dig deep in myself, get the willpower I needed, formulate a plan and stick to it – but most of all I am thankful that I didn’t need to rely on a drug with terrible side effects to get me on the right track.
One last thought – last night we took Jordan to the pool so we could get some exercise and have some fun. Now, that I’ve become hyper aware of the importance of healthy habits, I noticed that half of the kids at the pool were really overweight. I talk about this out of love and concern – never judgment upon anyone. After all, who am I to judge anyone about this? I am still new to the journey and have a LONG way to go. It did strike a chord with me and as the big kids splashed by us, my heart ached because I can only imagine the life of pain and ridicule they are and will continue to endure. It just made me all the more determined to instill healthy habits into my son now so that he will never have to face those challenges. Life will throw him many curveballs and I’d rather take the steps now to prevent one like that from occurring. The key is – it IS preventable. It just takes time, thought, effort, and consistency.
Until next time my friends….
Monday, January 18, 2010
The Gym
Pete and I took a class tonight called "Group Power". There were abput 20 people in it (5 men - 15 women). We did tons of weight lifting, squating, lunging, etc. Both of us were having a hard time lifting our arms on the drive home. Tomorrow will be extra painful - it's a good pain though. It felt wonderful to workout again.....
Oh - and I got Pete's weigh in information - down a pound. woo hoo! Slow and steady wins the race because this isn't a sprint - it's a marathon!
Oh - and I got Pete's weigh in information - down a pound. woo hoo! Slow and steady wins the race because this isn't a sprint - it's a marathon!
Weekly Progress Report
Yep - it's that time again. The Monday weigh in update. I am down 2 pounds this week. I am super happy because this is a healthy rate of weight loss. Experts say that you shouldn't lose any faster than 1-2 pounds per week. This makes for a total of 6.5 pounds lost in 2 weeks.
I wish I had an update on Pete's weight but he started a new job today so he ran out of the house bright and early and I haven't talked to him.
I went to Costco this morning and got some staples we needed (almonds, frozen fruit, chicken stock, mandarin oranges, some meat, etc). As I was standing in line waiting to be checked out, I found myself glancing around to see what everyone else was buying. I think that my cart definitely looked the cleanest. I actually wasn't ashamed once I started throwing my stuff up on the belt. That was a good feeling. I also went and bought a bathing suit today. I am going to keep up with the aqua aerobics - it's tons of fun and a really good workout (I SO dread being in a bathing suit in public but the desire to be fit is outweighing the embarassment at this point). We're all signed up for the community center and if all goes well, we will be going to our first class tonight. Tons of fun!
I wish I had an update on Pete's weight but he started a new job today so he ran out of the house bright and early and I haven't talked to him.
I went to Costco this morning and got some staples we needed (almonds, frozen fruit, chicken stock, mandarin oranges, some meat, etc). As I was standing in line waiting to be checked out, I found myself glancing around to see what everyone else was buying. I think that my cart definitely looked the cleanest. I actually wasn't ashamed once I started throwing my stuff up on the belt. That was a good feeling. I also went and bought a bathing suit today. I am going to keep up with the aqua aerobics - it's tons of fun and a really good workout (I SO dread being in a bathing suit in public but the desire to be fit is outweighing the embarassment at this point). We're all signed up for the community center and if all goes well, we will be going to our first class tonight. Tons of fun!
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Good and Bad
Well, we took a 12 hour day trip to Whidbey Island today. It's truly amazing there. We did a great hike right under the Deception Pass bridge. Straight down to the beach. I must've forgot the old saying "what goes down must come back up". I mentioned it was STRAIGHT DOWN, right?! That means it was STRAIGHT UP coming back. Yep - my whole lower body was burning. The kind of burning where you seriously think someone lit a fire under your butt! We kept a fast pace and tried not to stop. There were a few times that my mind tried to convince me I couldn't go on - but I pushed through and made it. I was totally out of breath at the top but it felt GOOD. Then, we stopped at a great state park and did lots of physical activity there, too. We had packed a cooler full of healthy foods - fruit, almonds, hummus, veggies, tuna sandwiches, lots of water. I think that was the first road trip ever that didn't begin with mini chocolate hostess donuts and milk from a gas station. That was the good part of my story. Now here's the other part........
After the ferry ride and long drive home, we were starving. We went to McGraths Fish House for dinner. I had mahi mahi and Pete had salmon - both with a salad (no dressing - just oil & vinegar) and roasted veggies on the side. Sounds super healthy so far, right? Well, let me add that both of our fish meals came topped with a different cream based sauce and mine came with a pina colada rice concoction on the side (very yummy, too). As if that weren't enough - we gave in and shared a marionberry cobbler between the three of us. Halfway through that amazing pie I felt extreme guilt and anguish. Pete told me that I shouldn't feel bad and that we won't be doing this on a regular basis. He re-iterated how well we have been doing. They say if you eat clean 80% of the time you're doing pretty good. We have seriously been doing it at least 95%. So, I dropped the guilt then and there and agreed that we will NOT be giving in very often but that we also can't totally deprive ourselves. At least we SHARED the dessert ;) Well, I didn't have to worry long about my guilt making me feel bad. By the time I got home my belly was in serious pain. I have been eating so clean for the past 2 weeks that it felt like it was rejecting every bad thing that was in there from dinner. I had also eaten more than I thought so it felt bloated and too full. As much as I hate feeling like this, I am thankful for it. This is the reminder I need of how bad eating poorly really does make me feel. I look forward to having a lean and clean day of eating tomorrow - and every day after.
One last exciting tidbit - tomorrow I am going to sign us up at the community center. I never thought I'd say this but I really can't wait to get my butt there to work out. They also offer so many neat sounding group classes - which I've always liked. Zumba, Jazzercize, Aqua Fit, Pilates - HERE I COME!!! The best part is - Pete has graciously volunteered to go to some of them with me. His only caveat was that I have to go one time first to make sure it isn't all girls or too feminine (guess he isn't up for jazzercize). hahahaha! I'd pay money to see that though!
I'll let you know how the next few days go.....
After the ferry ride and long drive home, we were starving. We went to McGraths Fish House for dinner. I had mahi mahi and Pete had salmon - both with a salad (no dressing - just oil & vinegar) and roasted veggies on the side. Sounds super healthy so far, right? Well, let me add that both of our fish meals came topped with a different cream based sauce and mine came with a pina colada rice concoction on the side (very yummy, too). As if that weren't enough - we gave in and shared a marionberry cobbler between the three of us. Halfway through that amazing pie I felt extreme guilt and anguish. Pete told me that I shouldn't feel bad and that we won't be doing this on a regular basis. He re-iterated how well we have been doing. They say if you eat clean 80% of the time you're doing pretty good. We have seriously been doing it at least 95%. So, I dropped the guilt then and there and agreed that we will NOT be giving in very often but that we also can't totally deprive ourselves. At least we SHARED the dessert ;) Well, I didn't have to worry long about my guilt making me feel bad. By the time I got home my belly was in serious pain. I have been eating so clean for the past 2 weeks that it felt like it was rejecting every bad thing that was in there from dinner. I had also eaten more than I thought so it felt bloated and too full. As much as I hate feeling like this, I am thankful for it. This is the reminder I need of how bad eating poorly really does make me feel. I look forward to having a lean and clean day of eating tomorrow - and every day after.
One last exciting tidbit - tomorrow I am going to sign us up at the community center. I never thought I'd say this but I really can't wait to get my butt there to work out. They also offer so many neat sounding group classes - which I've always liked. Zumba, Jazzercize, Aqua Fit, Pilates - HERE I COME!!! The best part is - Pete has graciously volunteered to go to some of them with me. His only caveat was that I have to go one time first to make sure it isn't all girls or too feminine (guess he isn't up for jazzercize). hahahaha! I'd pay money to see that though!
I'll let you know how the next few days go.....
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Psychology lessons
It's a funny thing, this blog. I started it as a journal to document what I knew would be a tough journey to get healthy and fit (afterall, this has been a lifelong struggle). I also know how much certain people/stories have inspired me just by hearing about their struggles and successes. I have a hope that this blog will do that for people. If one person feels like there is someone out there in the same boat that can relate to them and that they can gain an ounce of inspiration from, it's all worth it. The last reason I wanted to have the blog is for accountability. How could I ever write about all the clean foods I am preparing, the work outs, etc if I turn around and know that someone following the blog sees me eating junk, etc. That's my favorite part, actually. It's almost as though I know people are watching me and I don't want to let them down. I like having that hanging over my head. Keeps me honest ;)
When I started this journey a couple of weeks ago, I hadn't given any thought about the psychology behind MY eating. I had read Chantel's view's on why she over ate and I could totally relate but that was the extent of it. One day I was talking to a co-worker about all this and we both felt like eating was a social thing for us which made it hard. You know the routine - a friend calls you haven't seen in a while or it's a special occasion like a birthday. The first thing I always thing of "yes - let's get together - we can meet for lunch, we can meet for dinner, HEY - better yet, I'll throw a dinner party. Who doesn't like that?! Well, even during and after that conversation, the lightbulb hadn't gone completely off.
Last night I was driving home and talking to Pete and he was telling me how he was down and had a super stressful day. I hung up with him and immediately this thought popped into my head "oh man, I feel so bad for him. Wait, I know, I will swing by Coldstone on my way home and pick us up some ice cream. That'll cheer him up and I'll feel good for cheering him up. I'll also feel good because I love ice cream. I will get the smallest size of the reduced fat version - that won't conflict too bad with the eating clean". By this time, I was about 3 blocks before the turn for Coldstone. Thank goodness my willpower kicked in and I knew THAT was the worst idea EVER. A week and a half with no sugar, no sugar substitutes, and NO more craving sugar. The last thing I needed was to eat some sugar because I know myself and where that'll lead. I will be back to craving sweets and letting that take over my brain. I am happy to say I drove right past and felt a huge sense of accomplishment.
At that very moment, the lightbulb FINALLY went off and everything clicked. I am going to call it my "ah-hah" moment. I finally realized that I am an "eat-through-your-emotions" type gal. I think I was in denial before. Real denial - like, I really did NOT see it before. Scary. Come to think of it, I like to celebrate every high point in our life with meals out. Rich, thick, heavy meals. Apparently, I like to cheer people up with food, too. I am sure that includes myself when I have a bad day or feel stressed. I can't say I even know what to do about it yet. I do know that at least now I can see it, and I have the power over my feelings to not give in and feed them with food. I am going to work on finding a new way to cope. For now though, I will just put the pedal to the metal and speed by as quick as I can before I have the chance to give in.
It's funny how much psychology is tied in with eating, nutrition, fitness, etc. This blog has forced me to actually THINK about every little thing, sometimes to the point of over analyzing. That's okay because that's going to get me where I need to go.
Two last tid bits (dang, this blog went loooong): One, I found some M&M's and Pete will attest to the fact that I've mentioned a few times that I should have just a couple. Thankfully I haven't - but I did want you to know that it is still a real struggle I cope with daily. They announced a little celebration at work tomorrow. The first thing I thought of was "I should just leave early - I can't struggle with trying to eat clean when bad food will be there". Well, looks like it's my lucky day - they are going to have chicken skewers and fruit kabobs. I love those skinny little healthy elves who are making good choices at work. I'm very grateful!
Second tidbit (after yet another looong paragraph) - We have this really great, shiny, new community center in Federal Way that the family checked out last weekend. It has a few indoor pools, lazy river, game room, fitness area, group classes, basketball courts, etc. It's a little pricey so Pete and I agreed that we would wait until he got a job to join and amp up our fitness. Low and behold, he got a job today!!! Looks like our fitness level is going to dramatically increase next week - which, surprisingly, I am really excited about. I can't wait to see where fitness paired with clean eating will take my body & mind.
What a journey!
Until next time my friends.......
When I started this journey a couple of weeks ago, I hadn't given any thought about the psychology behind MY eating. I had read Chantel's view's on why she over ate and I could totally relate but that was the extent of it. One day I was talking to a co-worker about all this and we both felt like eating was a social thing for us which made it hard. You know the routine - a friend calls you haven't seen in a while or it's a special occasion like a birthday. The first thing I always thing of "yes - let's get together - we can meet for lunch, we can meet for dinner, HEY - better yet, I'll throw a dinner party. Who doesn't like that?! Well, even during and after that conversation, the lightbulb hadn't gone completely off.
Last night I was driving home and talking to Pete and he was telling me how he was down and had a super stressful day. I hung up with him and immediately this thought popped into my head "oh man, I feel so bad for him. Wait, I know, I will swing by Coldstone on my way home and pick us up some ice cream. That'll cheer him up and I'll feel good for cheering him up. I'll also feel good because I love ice cream. I will get the smallest size of the reduced fat version - that won't conflict too bad with the eating clean". By this time, I was about 3 blocks before the turn for Coldstone. Thank goodness my willpower kicked in and I knew THAT was the worst idea EVER. A week and a half with no sugar, no sugar substitutes, and NO more craving sugar. The last thing I needed was to eat some sugar because I know myself and where that'll lead. I will be back to craving sweets and letting that take over my brain. I am happy to say I drove right past and felt a huge sense of accomplishment.
At that very moment, the lightbulb FINALLY went off and everything clicked. I am going to call it my "ah-hah" moment. I finally realized that I am an "eat-through-your-emotions" type gal. I think I was in denial before. Real denial - like, I really did NOT see it before. Scary. Come to think of it, I like to celebrate every high point in our life with meals out. Rich, thick, heavy meals. Apparently, I like to cheer people up with food, too. I am sure that includes myself when I have a bad day or feel stressed. I can't say I even know what to do about it yet. I do know that at least now I can see it, and I have the power over my feelings to not give in and feed them with food. I am going to work on finding a new way to cope. For now though, I will just put the pedal to the metal and speed by as quick as I can before I have the chance to give in.
It's funny how much psychology is tied in with eating, nutrition, fitness, etc. This blog has forced me to actually THINK about every little thing, sometimes to the point of over analyzing. That's okay because that's going to get me where I need to go.
Two last tid bits (dang, this blog went loooong): One, I found some M&M's and Pete will attest to the fact that I've mentioned a few times that I should have just a couple. Thankfully I haven't - but I did want you to know that it is still a real struggle I cope with daily. They announced a little celebration at work tomorrow. The first thing I thought of was "I should just leave early - I can't struggle with trying to eat clean when bad food will be there". Well, looks like it's my lucky day - they are going to have chicken skewers and fruit kabobs. I love those skinny little healthy elves who are making good choices at work. I'm very grateful!
Second tidbit (after yet another looong paragraph) - We have this really great, shiny, new community center in Federal Way that the family checked out last weekend. It has a few indoor pools, lazy river, game room, fitness area, group classes, basketball courts, etc. It's a little pricey so Pete and I agreed that we would wait until he got a job to join and amp up our fitness. Low and behold, he got a job today!!! Looks like our fitness level is going to dramatically increase next week - which, surprisingly, I am really excited about. I can't wait to see where fitness paired with clean eating will take my body & mind.
What a journey!
Until next time my friends.......
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Goals and the DREADED Exercise
I normally set big goals for myself like “I will lose 30 pounds by the summer”. Well, I make it half way there and then get discouraged and fall off the wagon. Needless to say, I never make it to the end goal. The end goal just seems like it is light years away and so unreachable.
This time around, since I am focusing on making a life change, I decided to test a new approach since the previous approach has not worked. I decided that my first goal would be to lose 5 pounds – no matter how long it took. I am refusing to even think about how many pounds I need to lose all together or the end weight I want to be at. Just thinking about that discourages me – it feels TOO hard. Thinking of 5 small pounds seems very doable and definitely in reach. Well, I am happy to report that as of this morning, I have MET MY FIRST GOAL! 5 pounds down! Now, I am aiming for another 5. If I keep this pace I will be where I want to be by summer without ever having to stress about it.
I know that fitness is a huge part of this journey. I have always said “I hate exercise”. I’ve since realized that this kind of negative talk will surely keep me from meeting my goals. If I am thinking “I hate exercise” then I WILL hate it. Needless to say, I am working on more positive self talk. I left the negatives behind when we left 2009 (ooh – rhyming and all – pretty catchy!) Anyhow – I am focusing on just doing. The past few days I mentioned that another small goal I set was to work out at least 3 times this week. Yesterday I reiterated this by telling you that Pete was committed to kicking me out of the bed at 5:30 am today so I can work out. Well, much to my surprise (and Pete’s dismay) – no one kicked anyone out of the bed. The alarm went off, I gave myself a couple of minutes to wake up, then I got up and went downstairs to start my boot camp dvd. Guess what, that damn DVD was nowhere to be found. For a split second I told myself “that’s okay Anna, you tried. You can just come back and try again tomorrow” ER – NO! I quickly realized what I was doing and put my willpower to the test. I was not going to let a missing dvd be the reason I missed my first workout and my goal. So, half asleep, rummaging through 200 dvd’s, I found it! Popped it in and proceeded to keep pace with Tony Horton and his 2 compadres. I won’t lie – I had to stop for a few seconds to catch my breath and wipe the sweat off my forehead – but I did FINISH the dvd. May seem insignificant to some, but for me it’s a big accomplishment. Now – I have 2 more before the end of the week. Totally doable.
My brother in law (who’s crazy into fitness – very well versed in it, too) posted a comment yesterday about a jump rope routine. I have a jump rope and may try a little skipping this evening just to acclimate myself and try something I haven’t done for a while. I strongly suggest this to anyone else looking for an “out-of-the-box” workout. I’ll let you know how that goes.
This time around, since I am focusing on making a life change, I decided to test a new approach since the previous approach has not worked. I decided that my first goal would be to lose 5 pounds – no matter how long it took. I am refusing to even think about how many pounds I need to lose all together or the end weight I want to be at. Just thinking about that discourages me – it feels TOO hard. Thinking of 5 small pounds seems very doable and definitely in reach. Well, I am happy to report that as of this morning, I have MET MY FIRST GOAL! 5 pounds down! Now, I am aiming for another 5. If I keep this pace I will be where I want to be by summer without ever having to stress about it.
I know that fitness is a huge part of this journey. I have always said “I hate exercise”. I’ve since realized that this kind of negative talk will surely keep me from meeting my goals. If I am thinking “I hate exercise” then I WILL hate it. Needless to say, I am working on more positive self talk. I left the negatives behind when we left 2009 (ooh – rhyming and all – pretty catchy!) Anyhow – I am focusing on just doing. The past few days I mentioned that another small goal I set was to work out at least 3 times this week. Yesterday I reiterated this by telling you that Pete was committed to kicking me out of the bed at 5:30 am today so I can work out. Well, much to my surprise (and Pete’s dismay) – no one kicked anyone out of the bed. The alarm went off, I gave myself a couple of minutes to wake up, then I got up and went downstairs to start my boot camp dvd. Guess what, that damn DVD was nowhere to be found. For a split second I told myself “that’s okay Anna, you tried. You can just come back and try again tomorrow” ER – NO! I quickly realized what I was doing and put my willpower to the test. I was not going to let a missing dvd be the reason I missed my first workout and my goal. So, half asleep, rummaging through 200 dvd’s, I found it! Popped it in and proceeded to keep pace with Tony Horton and his 2 compadres. I won’t lie – I had to stop for a few seconds to catch my breath and wipe the sweat off my forehead – but I did FINISH the dvd. May seem insignificant to some, but for me it’s a big accomplishment. Now – I have 2 more before the end of the week. Totally doable.
My brother in law (who’s crazy into fitness – very well versed in it, too) posted a comment yesterday about a jump rope routine. I have a jump rope and may try a little skipping this evening just to acclimate myself and try something I haven’t done for a while. I strongly suggest this to anyone else looking for an “out-of-the-box” workout. I’ll let you know how that goes.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Lunch
Weekly Weigh In
Well, today was our first "official" weigh in. We decided that every Monday morning we'd weigh ourselves to track our progress. The first week was very successful. I lost 4.5 pounds last week and Pete lost 10! Super exciting and just proves that Eating Clean is the cornerstone of success. This week we've each set small goals we are striving to attain (as seen in my post yesterday). In my quest to ACTUALLY meet one of my goals (I am great at setting goals but in the past haven't always made it to the actual "meeting" part) - I promised to wake up at 5:30 tomorrow morning and do my boot camp workout video. So, Pete has happily accepted the position of kicking me out of bed when the alarm goes off tomorrow before the sun even considers coming up. Aye Carrumba! I know this is what it'll take to get where I want to be and I am willing to sacrifice to get there.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
This week's goals
Mine:
* eat smaller portions
* exersize 2 times this week
Pete's:
* make sure to eat the 5 - 6 small meals per day - no skipping.
I am off to bake 2 lbs of sweet potatoes for this upcoming week. YUM!
* eat smaller portions
* exersize 2 times this week
Pete's:
* make sure to eat the 5 - 6 small meals per day - no skipping.
I am off to bake 2 lbs of sweet potatoes for this upcoming week. YUM!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
RECIPES
Spray a saute pan with olive oil cooking spray and then add about a cup of spinach and 1/3 cup of orange bell pepper. Cook until spinach wilts slightly. Add 3/4 cup egg beaters, pepper, and some Mrs. Dash. Cook until done. For the fruit salad I cut up one granny smith apple, one banana, & a can of drained mandarin oranges. I squeezed a small amount of lemon over the fruit and mixed it together. The toast is a whole grain flax seed bread. YUM! There's lots of leftovers to munch on later.
For dinner tonight we are going to try this parchment baked fish recipe. It calls for halibut but I am going to use mahi mahi:
4 - 12" X 18" sheets of parchment paper
4 - 6 oz. halibut filets
4 tbsp commercial pesto sauce
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup shredded zucchini
1 cup shredded napa cabbage
4 cloves of minced garlic
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp freshly ground pepper
4 tsp olive oil
4 tsp low sodium chicken stock
cooking spray
Preheat oven to 450 - unfold parchment and lightly coat with cooking spray (leave edges of paper ungreased). Place halibut on one side but not on the ungreased edge. Spread 1 tbsp of pesto over the fillet and top with 1/4 cup of each: carrot, cabbage, zucchini. sprinkle with 1/4 the salt & pepper and one minced clove of garlic. Drizzle filet with 1 tsp of oil and 1 tsp chicken stock. Fold paper and seal adges with narrow folds. Repeat with remaining ingredients. You will have 4 complete packets.
Bake for 15 minutes or until puffy and lightly browned. To serve, open packets and transfer ingredients to a plate - pour juices over top. Or, you can serve right in the packets - just transfer packet to a plate and pierce first to allow steam to escape.
Enjoy! If you try these recipes - be sure to leave feedback so I can see what other people think.
Happy eating!
6 days in....
and it's getting easier - not harder. Except for the birthday cake at work yesterday. Normally, though, I'd run in the kitchen, grab an oversized piece of cake, and quickly go back to my desk hoping no one saw me or the ginormous slice of cake I was about to eat. Well, you all know the sucker I am for sweets. So, yesterday, I went in to the kitchen just to look at the cake - sort of "facing my demons" I guess. I saw it was chocolate! OH NO - NOT CHOCOLATE!!! My all time favorite. So, I did have some but don't fret. It was one bite then I quickly threw away the fork and went back to my desk (I have witnesses). As I sat there - I realized that the cake wasn't even that great and I wasn't missing out on ANYTHING by not eating a whole piece. That's a major accomplishment for me and my willpower. Not to mention, by just taking a bite, I didn't feel any guilt afterward. I came home and had a nice dinner of quinoa pasta (small small portion) and a huge spinach salad that was SO yummy.
So, like I said, today marks 6 days into my new eating lifestyle and I have to say, I love it. I love that I don't have daily stomach aches. I also don't miss that tight, full belly feeling. I hated that! So, I march on and continue with the loads of water, 5 small meals a day full of lean protein, fruits, veggies, and whole grains.
As a progress report, I am down 3 lbs since Monday and Pete is down 8.5! It makes it so much easier traveling this journey together. I am so thankful for that man!
I am headed to meet my friend that moved here, too, from Vegas. We're taking our boys to the children's museum. Part of me is tempted to pack my own lunch but I think I am going to opt for getting something to eat there. I need to experience trying to order a clean meal in a restaurant. I'll let you know how that goes.
Pete and I were just talking about how we should open a HEALTHY - fast food restaurant. Can you imagine driving up to a place and being able to get a freshly made salad, grilled chicken, fruit, etc. all gourmet and passed through your car window in less than 3 minutes??? It's a nice thought - I'm not up for a challenge like that - YET!
I am going to make a second post this morning with a few recipes if anyone wants to try them.
So, like I said, today marks 6 days into my new eating lifestyle and I have to say, I love it. I love that I don't have daily stomach aches. I also don't miss that tight, full belly feeling. I hated that! So, I march on and continue with the loads of water, 5 small meals a day full of lean protein, fruits, veggies, and whole grains.
As a progress report, I am down 3 lbs since Monday and Pete is down 8.5! It makes it so much easier traveling this journey together. I am so thankful for that man!
I am headed to meet my friend that moved here, too, from Vegas. We're taking our boys to the children's museum. Part of me is tempted to pack my own lunch but I think I am going to opt for getting something to eat there. I need to experience trying to order a clean meal in a restaurant. I'll let you know how that goes.
Pete and I were just talking about how we should open a HEALTHY - fast food restaurant. Can you imagine driving up to a place and being able to get a freshly made salad, grilled chicken, fruit, etc. all gourmet and passed through your car window in less than 3 minutes??? It's a nice thought - I'm not up for a challenge like that - YET!
I am going to make a second post this morning with a few recipes if anyone wants to try them.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
I am not invincible....
Granted, it’s only 4 days in to the eating clean lifestyle, but I was starting to feel really good mentally about it. I wasn’t having my typical chocolate cravings and felt like for once, I had infinite willpower. My eating, water intake, and vitamin consumption have been perfect. Well, as I sat here an hour ago, I started craving Hawaiian BBQ with mac salad and coconut pie (why THAT, I have NO idea). Damn you, Mr. Cravings! I will NOT be defeated by you. So, I resolved to stay the charted course and eat my protein, fruits, veggies, and complex carbs.
One nice thing I should remember is that as of this morning, the scale says I’ve lost 2.5 pounds and Pete has lost 7! We’re well on our way to getting healthy so we might as well stick with it! No one said it would be easy – actually, they said it would be hard. I guess I just got a little too over confident. The good news is, I didn’t act on it and the victory of overcoming the cravings is a good feeling.
Are you experiencing the same??? I’d love to hear your feedback – I need all the inspiration I can get. Feel free to comment.
One nice thing I should remember is that as of this morning, the scale says I’ve lost 2.5 pounds and Pete has lost 7! We’re well on our way to getting healthy so we might as well stick with it! No one said it would be easy – actually, they said it would be hard. I guess I just got a little too over confident. The good news is, I didn’t act on it and the victory of overcoming the cravings is a good feeling.
Are you experiencing the same??? I’d love to hear your feedback – I need all the inspiration I can get. Feel free to comment.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Excited!
As you know from my first post, much of my inspiration and eating clean education has come from Tosca Reno. I found an email address to send her questions so I just wrote to ask her about the withdrawl symptoms - but mostly just to let her know that her work IS making an impact on others and that I appreciate her efforts. I am excited and can't wait to see if I actually hear back as I know she's super busy promoting her new book, Eating Clean Recharged.
Anywho, I am over the trauma of my protein powder smoothies from the past few mornings and just enjoyed a nice lunch of herbal tea, grilled chicken, light string cheese, and a sweet potato. It's amazing how sweet that potato really is after not eating any sugar for a few days.
I keep reading all the posts from my Facebook friends and know that many of us are on this journey together right now. I am just praying that everyone keeps the determination to continue on and succeed as we all need to be more healthy. I am really thankful to all of the support I've received in the past week while letting everyone in on my journey, my goals, and this blog which is an insight into my true thoughts and feelings. Especially grateful to my friend Stacey who has experience in bodybuilding, eating healthy, and getting fit - she offered to help me and already sent some great recipes to get me past those nasty protein smoothies. I'm taking what she says to heart because she's living proof this stuff works - she looks 29 and she'll be 40 soon - yet another amazing inspiration!
Until next time my friends.....
Anywho, I am over the trauma of my protein powder smoothies from the past few mornings and just enjoyed a nice lunch of herbal tea, grilled chicken, light string cheese, and a sweet potato. It's amazing how sweet that potato really is after not eating any sugar for a few days.
I keep reading all the posts from my Facebook friends and know that many of us are on this journey together right now. I am just praying that everyone keeps the determination to continue on and succeed as we all need to be more healthy. I am really thankful to all of the support I've received in the past week while letting everyone in on my journey, my goals, and this blog which is an insight into my true thoughts and feelings. Especially grateful to my friend Stacey who has experience in bodybuilding, eating healthy, and getting fit - she offered to help me and already sent some great recipes to get me past those nasty protein smoothies. I'm taking what she says to heart because she's living proof this stuff works - she looks 29 and she'll be 40 soon - yet another amazing inspiration!
Until next time my friends.....
It's been 3 days...
and I still have a headache, though it is lessening. The fatigue and nausea seem to have gone away though. One thing I am struggling with majorly is the protein powder that I am adding to my smoothie in the morning. ICK - I have never done well with powdery additions to my beverages. Looks like I will be living off of hard boiled egg whites and plain oatmeal. This will get old fast... need new ideas.
The next focus will be fitness. hmmm... many things to ponder in that area.
The next focus will be fitness. hmmm... many things to ponder in that area.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
It has to get worse before it gets better...
Or so I am telling myself. Yesterday afternoon a huge headache came to grace me with its presence. It lasted through the night and into today. With it has come bouts of nausea and severe fatigue. As much as I'd like to think I am sick, I am almost positive I am not. I believe I am having withdrawl symptoms. Given the fact that on a normal day I'd begin with a sugar and caffeine filled Starbucks coffee along with some sweet bread or other confection, followed up by some more coffee, then a day sprinkled with diet coke and other bad foods, I am sure yesterday has put my body in a state of shock. I've completely gone off the sugar, caffeine, AND diet products. I've only ingested water (in LARGE amounts) and a small amount of skim milk. The only sugar I have taken in has been in the form of fresh produce and complex carbs. WOWZERS - who would've thought that eating clean would've made me feel so terrible.
One thing I can be sure of, as with any addiction, is that withdrawl symptoms DO go away fairly soon. I am just sticking to the plan, taking excedrin, and thinking positive thoughts. I am taking to heart some of these old but famous quotes: "No Pain, No Gain", "Everything good is worth fighting for", "Nothing TASTES as good as being healthy FEELS", etc etc.
I can tell you, while sparing the gory details, that progress is already being made. My digestion is already 100% better and the scales showed a loss of 2 pounds this morning. It is surely just water weight - but heck - at this point I'll take any loss regardless of the reason behind it.
A big thank you to Pete who takes such good care of me. He took the time yesterday to grill a ton of chicken breasts last night so that we'll have some lean protein on hand. Yum Yum!
Today's Struggles are Tomorrow's Victories!
One thing I can be sure of, as with any addiction, is that withdrawl symptoms DO go away fairly soon. I am just sticking to the plan, taking excedrin, and thinking positive thoughts. I am taking to heart some of these old but famous quotes: "No Pain, No Gain", "Everything good is worth fighting for", "Nothing TASTES as good as being healthy FEELS", etc etc.
I can tell you, while sparing the gory details, that progress is already being made. My digestion is already 100% better and the scales showed a loss of 2 pounds this morning. It is surely just water weight - but heck - at this point I'll take any loss regardless of the reason behind it.
A big thank you to Pete who takes such good care of me. He took the time yesterday to grill a ton of chicken breasts last night so that we'll have some lean protein on hand. Yum Yum!
Today's Struggles are Tomorrow's Victories!
Monday, January 4, 2010
I'm FULL!
So, this is the first full day of truly eating clean. I must admit, I was fully prepared to be hungry. Well, what a let down. I have had moments where I was actually TOO full. It seems that when the next 2 - 3 hours come around to eat again - I am never actually hungry. Hey, come to think of it, I think that's the whole purpose. The one thing eating like this does not include is starvation which is a good thing seeing how much I love food.
The protein powder and fruit shake needs a little work. The oatmeal microwaving technique needs perfecting so I can prevent future explosions - but I am getting there. I can't wait to be past the sugar/fat/bad food withdrawls. Overall though - not bad for a first day......
The protein powder and fruit shake needs a little work. The oatmeal microwaving technique needs perfecting so I can prevent future explosions - but I am getting there. I can't wait to be past the sugar/fat/bad food withdrawls. Overall though - not bad for a first day......
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Northshore Produce Market
Since today is Sunday - a.k.a. the eating clean planning day - let the games begin!
Today after church Pete, me, and Jordan went to check out this specialty produce store by our house. I fell in love - everything is so fresh, good, and inexpensive. I like that I can get in, get out, without being tempted by all the other bad, pre-packaged and non-clean foods. I think a turkey chili is in order for tonight's dinner. Jordan has a new found appreciation for mangoes and wants to eat one after another. Hopefully he doesn't get a belly ache.
Yesterday we went on an amazing hike at Cape Flattery, the northwest most point in the continental US. At the bottom of the trail we were greeted with a gift from God as you can see in this picture.....
Today after church Pete, me, and Jordan went to check out this specialty produce store by our house. I fell in love - everything is so fresh, good, and inexpensive. I like that I can get in, get out, without being tempted by all the other bad, pre-packaged and non-clean foods. I think a turkey chili is in order for tonight's dinner. Jordan has a new found appreciation for mangoes and wants to eat one after another. Hopefully he doesn't get a belly ache.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
