Wow....only 1 week left. What a trip.
We've all done a great job and I'm real proud of us all.
I'm trying to exercise as much as possible this week and eat real healthy! I'm real happy as I have lost close to 15 lbs and that is good for me! I am confident that from here on out I will just continue losing weight and getting stronger and stronger. As long as I can pretty much stick to the rules still!
It'll be nice to be able to let my hair down a bit, though, and not be such a stickler for the rules.
Have a great week everybody and maybe we'll see you at the weigh-in! (I'm going bright and early, before I eat any breakfast! ha ha!)
Monday, November 17, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Let's GO!!!!
Okay guys, We are now #15 on the list. We came up a few spots. This is great news. As our point totals haven't been great, it's probably because other teams are slipping. Let's take advantage of this and give these last 2 weeks all we have---we are doing this for a reason, we paid $100 to change our lives, now let's get serious about this. Did you watch that video Bonnie sent?
WE HAVE NO EXCUSES!!!! We HAVE arms and legs!
I have been really sick with cold yet I still have 6 exercise points this week and by the end of today I will have 8. I am walking an hour every day. I know I am at home with baby and I have more time then some of you working folks, but it is still hard especially being sick.
I really think that we should aim to be 10th on the list by the end of this. No MORE cheat days for ANYONE--unless you have a really good reason. Exercise at least 1/2 hour EVERY DAY.
Amy suggested that we all get together and go for a hike. We could go to Short Hills where Amy and I went yesterday and there is a really huge monster hill that is great to climb!
Let me know if you are into this and we can talk about a time. Probably a Saturday or Sunday.
Anyway, I don't want to scare you so that you'll lie if you do cheat, but I would really prefer to see "21" for everyone's nutrition scores for the rest of the time. I know it's late in the week now so if you've already cheated, oh well.
If you are having a problem with a particular food--for instance, you always cheat by having a coffee, or some sugar, or some bread or whatever it is (wine?!) then let all of know your weakness and perhaps we can help you overcome it! If it is just situations that happen (you get invited over to someone's house for dinner and there is nothing you can eat) then let us know that too and we can also offer some good advice.
Hey--I have not been been perfect myself, and I have had my share of cheat days FOR SURE.
But I am done for the rest of this challenge and I am going to give these last few weeks my total concentration and committment. I challenge you to do the same!!!
C'mon team! Let's go!
WE HAVE NO EXCUSES!!!! We HAVE arms and legs!
I have been really sick with cold yet I still have 6 exercise points this week and by the end of today I will have 8. I am walking an hour every day. I know I am at home with baby and I have more time then some of you working folks, but it is still hard especially being sick.
I really think that we should aim to be 10th on the list by the end of this. No MORE cheat days for ANYONE--unless you have a really good reason. Exercise at least 1/2 hour EVERY DAY.
Amy suggested that we all get together and go for a hike. We could go to Short Hills where Amy and I went yesterday and there is a really huge monster hill that is great to climb!
Let me know if you are into this and we can talk about a time. Probably a Saturday or Sunday.
Anyway, I don't want to scare you so that you'll lie if you do cheat, but I would really prefer to see "21" for everyone's nutrition scores for the rest of the time. I know it's late in the week now so if you've already cheated, oh well.
If you are having a problem with a particular food--for instance, you always cheat by having a coffee, or some sugar, or some bread or whatever it is (wine?!) then let all of know your weakness and perhaps we can help you overcome it! If it is just situations that happen (you get invited over to someone's house for dinner and there is nothing you can eat) then let us know that too and we can also offer some good advice.
Hey--I have not been been perfect myself, and I have had my share of cheat days FOR SURE.
But I am done for the rest of this challenge and I am going to give these last few weeks my total concentration and committment. I challenge you to do the same!!!
C'mon team! Let's go!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
3 weeks more!
Hiya folks,
Well, less than 3 weeks to go! I, for one, am going to give it all I got. Well, I was planning on it but then I got sick! Ugh, I am not well at all so it's not really possible for me to exercise. However, I am going to try to still get out for an hour walk a day, even if it's at a slower pace. I already walked to the market today so that was great. I felt a bit feverish (!) but truly I feel better for having gone, as it is a beautiful day today and my sinuses feel better outside.
I think I've lost 12 lbs so far and a total of 8 inches all over my body. At the weigh in I only lost 10 lbs, but since then I've lost another two.
Rachael and I were just talking about how our weakness is blue corn chips and I eat them with hummus almost every night. Not a lot, but a good handful. Well, I emailed Bonnie to ask her for some tips to ensure I lose some more weight these last 3 weeks. I was honest with her about what I was eating. Here are some of her comments on that:
" If having a avocado have 1/4 that's it. Olives remember about 6, guacamole (again about 1/4 of a cup, it is not much, along with the hummus) Only have the blue corn chips once per week, or you can have the pop corn once per week. NOT both. "
"Bread if fine. One slice counts as your grain intake. So 5-6 grains, I would pick 2 slices of bread for 2 servings. Then crackers 1 serving, oatmeal 1 serving, Kamut puff 1 serving, and maybe a little rice for 1 serving. Hope this makes sense. Again, start to measure what is on you english muffin. NO more than 1 tbsp is your serving size for almond butter. Drink more water!!!!!!!!!!!"|
Now of course I can't figure out how to turn off this yellow highlight. Oh well.
I cant believe I can only have corn chips OR popcorn. Not that I'd have them in the same day, but I generally have popcorn every Friday night as a treat. And I doubt very much I only use 1 tbsp of butter.....My question is..how do you only use 1/4 of an avocado? You spend almost $2 on the thing, you want to use at least half before it goes bad the next day....
How has everyone's meals been? We've made the pizza twice now with the spelt pizza dough, and it was amazing. We had to do it on the BBQ as our oven doesn't work, and I just pre-cooked all the toppings and it was great! Today for lunch I made myself a veggie sandwich on De La Terre whole wheat and rye bread (fresh in at the Peanut Mill today!) and I used goat cheese marble cheddar, avocado (1/4!), lettuce, tomatoes, onion, peppers, pickles and a Renee's Wellness dressing to take place of the mayo I would usually smother the bread in. It was really really good...I think. I don't have much taste left with this cold.
I've had spaghetti with kamut pasta and alot of BBQ chicken with veggies and salads....Anyway,
the baby needs me to save her from the evil jumparoo so I must end this now...
ps--who would be interested in who has the MOST points per week for the remaining weeks that we have (combined)? I could post them on here.
Kate
Well, less than 3 weeks to go! I, for one, am going to give it all I got. Well, I was planning on it but then I got sick! Ugh, I am not well at all so it's not really possible for me to exercise. However, I am going to try to still get out for an hour walk a day, even if it's at a slower pace. I already walked to the market today so that was great. I felt a bit feverish (!) but truly I feel better for having gone, as it is a beautiful day today and my sinuses feel better outside.
I think I've lost 12 lbs so far and a total of 8 inches all over my body. At the weigh in I only lost 10 lbs, but since then I've lost another two.
Rachael and I were just talking about how our weakness is blue corn chips and I eat them with hummus almost every night. Not a lot, but a good handful. Well, I emailed Bonnie to ask her for some tips to ensure I lose some more weight these last 3 weeks. I was honest with her about what I was eating. Here are some of her comments on that:
" If having a avocado have 1/4 that's it. Olives remember about 6, guacamole (again about 1/4 of a cup, it is not much, along with the hummus) Only have the blue corn chips once per week, or you can have the pop corn once per week. NOT both. "
"Bread if fine. One slice counts as your grain intake. So 5-6 grains, I would pick 2 slices of bread for 2 servings. Then crackers 1 serving, oatmeal 1 serving, Kamut puff 1 serving, and maybe a little rice for 1 serving. Hope this makes sense. Again, start to measure what is on you english muffin. NO more than 1 tbsp is your serving size for almond butter. Drink more water!!!!!!!!!!!"|
Now of course I can't figure out how to turn off this yellow highlight. Oh well.
I cant believe I can only have corn chips OR popcorn. Not that I'd have them in the same day, but I generally have popcorn every Friday night as a treat. And I doubt very much I only use 1 tbsp of butter.....My question is..how do you only use 1/4 of an avocado? You spend almost $2 on the thing, you want to use at least half before it goes bad the next day....
How has everyone's meals been? We've made the pizza twice now with the spelt pizza dough, and it was amazing. We had to do it on the BBQ as our oven doesn't work, and I just pre-cooked all the toppings and it was great! Today for lunch I made myself a veggie sandwich on De La Terre whole wheat and rye bread (fresh in at the Peanut Mill today!) and I used goat cheese marble cheddar, avocado (1/4!), lettuce, tomatoes, onion, peppers, pickles and a Renee's Wellness dressing to take place of the mayo I would usually smother the bread in. It was really really good...I think. I don't have much taste left with this cold.
I've had spaghetti with kamut pasta and alot of BBQ chicken with veggies and salads....Anyway,
the baby needs me to save her from the evil jumparoo so I must end this now...
ps--who would be interested in who has the MOST points per week for the remaining weeks that we have (combined)? I could post them on here.
Kate
Monday, October 20, 2008
Birthday Weekend Trials and Triumphs
Well, I got through it. Thanksgiving, wedding anniversary, birthday. Halloween will be nothing. And from here on in, I'm home free. No more cheating (I hope!)
Friday was supposed to be my only cheat day for my birthday weekend, but it wasn't my actual birthday. I started the day with yogurt and muesli, although this time I decided to add some honey since I was cheating and all! And I didn't even like it! It's true, my tastebuds have changed!
I didn't cheat again until dinnertime at the Wellington. And they weren't big cheats at all, I had a raw salmon appetizer, a salad, and some duck breast w/veggies for dinner. I'm just not absolutely certain there wasn't any sugar in any dressings or sauces. But I did have dessert with a decaf coffee. I shared it with my mom, a lemon mousse with marscapone in a filo tart with raspberry coulis. Not birthday cake but even more delicious! Oh yes, and I had a glass of red wine.
Saturday was not supposed to be a cheat day, and it was tough as we were out in Burlington buying an SUV all day. We went to a restaurant for lunch where the only thing I could order was a salad for $12. By the time we went out for my birthday dinner, I was soooo hungry, and just wanting a nice dinner that I decided to cheat with another glass of wine. My dinner ended up being a Cornish hen, vegetable and potatoes. NO DESSERT! On my birthday! So even though I cheated on 2 days, I don't feel like I cheated badly which I am proud of.
I also managed to fit into 4 pairs of old pants the other day! And I moved 2 notches on my belt! So I am very happy and still pretty excited for this.
Tomorrow will be Day 23 of 56. In 5 more days, we'll be at the half way point!
I know it might be getting tiresome, but stay strong! Don't you want to see big changes at the end of this? If you cheat, try not to cheat too badly. Don't go crazy on the sugar, and you will probably be fine!
Work hard, the nutrition is more important then the exercise however think about how much more you will lose if you exercise lots on top of eating well! Once you get going on exercise, you start getting addicted to it, and it makes you feel bad if you don't, so try to get to that point and then it won't be as much of a struggle to get out there and do it in the first place.
Above all, just have fun and enjoy how good you are feeling!
Have a great day!
Friday was supposed to be my only cheat day for my birthday weekend, but it wasn't my actual birthday. I started the day with yogurt and muesli, although this time I decided to add some honey since I was cheating and all! And I didn't even like it! It's true, my tastebuds have changed!
I didn't cheat again until dinnertime at the Wellington. And they weren't big cheats at all, I had a raw salmon appetizer, a salad, and some duck breast w/veggies for dinner. I'm just not absolutely certain there wasn't any sugar in any dressings or sauces. But I did have dessert with a decaf coffee. I shared it with my mom, a lemon mousse with marscapone in a filo tart with raspberry coulis. Not birthday cake but even more delicious! Oh yes, and I had a glass of red wine.
Saturday was not supposed to be a cheat day, and it was tough as we were out in Burlington buying an SUV all day. We went to a restaurant for lunch where the only thing I could order was a salad for $12. By the time we went out for my birthday dinner, I was soooo hungry, and just wanting a nice dinner that I decided to cheat with another glass of wine. My dinner ended up being a Cornish hen, vegetable and potatoes. NO DESSERT! On my birthday! So even though I cheated on 2 days, I don't feel like I cheated badly which I am proud of.
I also managed to fit into 4 pairs of old pants the other day! And I moved 2 notches on my belt! So I am very happy and still pretty excited for this.
Tomorrow will be Day 23 of 56. In 5 more days, we'll be at the half way point!
I know it might be getting tiresome, but stay strong! Don't you want to see big changes at the end of this? If you cheat, try not to cheat too badly. Don't go crazy on the sugar, and you will probably be fine!
Work hard, the nutrition is more important then the exercise however think about how much more you will lose if you exercise lots on top of eating well! Once you get going on exercise, you start getting addicted to it, and it makes you feel bad if you don't, so try to get to that point and then it won't be as much of a struggle to get out there and do it in the first place.
Above all, just have fun and enjoy how good you are feeling!
Have a great day!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Good Job though!
Just realized my last post sounded kind of DOWN. Didn't mean it to sound that way, so sorry 'bout that! I think all of us have done an AMAZING job so far and I think we should all be very proud of ourselves for doing this in the first place! Most people think we are absolutely crazy for taking this on, and we are! It's great! So, great job and thanks for being on my team!
get those points!
Well, team, we are dropping in rank. Last week we were 11th on the list and this week we are 15th I believe. I would love our goal to be consistently in the top 10. I'm one to talk, as this week I will have another cheat day, for my birthday, and I didn't get any exercise points yesterday! However, I plan to make that up today with an hour walk and an hour at the YMCA.
I think this week and the upcoming weeks might be more difficult in a way. We had a lot of stamina for the first few weeks and perhaps some of us might be feeling a little less... excited.
I know that is kind of happening for me, I'm not taking the time to create really good meals this week. Instead I have been relying on frozen dinners (challenge friendly) for lunch. So from now on I promise to make healthy fresh lunches and exercise AT LEAST 1/2 hour every day. That's my promise for the next 2 weeks.
Well, I have to go now and eat my oatmeal with dried apricots, raisins and rice milk! I have this every day for breakfast and I'm wondering how long it will be until I get real sick of it!!!
I think this week and the upcoming weeks might be more difficult in a way. We had a lot of stamina for the first few weeks and perhaps some of us might be feeling a little less... excited.
I know that is kind of happening for me, I'm not taking the time to create really good meals this week. Instead I have been relying on frozen dinners (challenge friendly) for lunch. So from now on I promise to make healthy fresh lunches and exercise AT LEAST 1/2 hour every day. That's my promise for the next 2 weeks.
Well, I have to go now and eat my oatmeal with dried apricots, raisins and rice milk! I have this every day for breakfast and I'm wondering how long it will be until I get real sick of it!!!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
another week down, 6 more to go!
Hello team,
If you have managed to make it through Thanksgiving without cheating, congrats. If you had to cheat, don't be too hard on yourself. YOU JUST BETTER MAKE IT UP WITH EXERCISE POINTS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOL! I think I managed to make up my infraction last week with exercise points, so I am very proud.
I am aware that some of us have been able to lose some weight recently, so that is wonderful. I myself thought the scale wasn't moving much past my initial 4lb loss, but when I stepped on the scale this morning I had lost 7 lbs!!! Congrats also to Amy who lost 8 lbs!
I wanted to share some victories with you. Friday I went to a party which celebrated all birthdays in October, including mine. I brought blue corn chips, spelt bread and water with me. I had some homemade chili someone made for dinner, along with a piece of the spelt bread. I had someone else's homemade salsa with my blue corn chips and I drank my water all night long admidst drunken loudmouths--needless to say, I felt great the next day! However, I did make Isaac's brother put a piece of homemade cake in a baggie in his freezer for me to enjoy at some point in the future, maybe in December sometime. However, at the same time, I will probably tell him this week to go ahead and eat it, as I don't even want it. Why save that for myself? December will bring enough cake and cookies with it, that I don't need to have cake from October too. It did make me feel better at the time to do that though, it helped me deal with it! LOL!
As of tonight I have made it through 2 thanksgiving dinners. At the first one, I had the turkey, roasted veg's, and green beans. For dessert I had some grapes, strawberries and melon. Water to drink.
Tonight I had turkey, gravy, squash, sweet potato, green beans, and beets.
OH OH OH! I have to tell you--I made the Guacamole from the Niagara Challenge book and it was a huge hit! I brought it to the dinner we had tonight. I also made the Nut Balls and the Lemon Squares, but I ended up combining them somewhat.
When I made the lemon squares, I didn't read the instructions well enough, and I just tried to blend it all together at once, but you HAVE to first just blend the nuts and the dates AND THEN add the lemon juice and zest. It doesn't work when you do it all together. So instead of wasting it, I added it to half of my nut balls, and they tasted even better. YUM YUM YUM!! So worth it and sooooo easy! You HAVE to make them! You don't have to do my crazy mistake ones, just do the regular recipe and they will taste real good. Everyone loved them too!
Tomorrow morning I am making the Apple Tart for dessert for my 3rd thanksgiving dinner (lunch) and I have no doubt that everyone will love it. I am also making myself yogurt cheese using cheesecloth and yogurt to go with it.
So, Happy Turkey day and I send you many wishes of strength, but more importantly, if you DO cheat, DON'T beat yourself up over it, just make sure you get back on the wagon and continue on like usual, being strong.
PS--i felt so bad tonight, my Aunt Linda seemed a bit offended when I walked in with guacamole, chips, and nut balls. She said "What, you think I wouldn't take care of you?" and then she proceeded to proudly show me the Ace's Bakery "Multigrain" bread, chips and toasts that she got for me. Second ingredient: white flour. Third ingredient: sugar. Thank god I brought my blue corn chips! She also made broccoli. and covered it with cheese. And made sweet potato: and covered it with sugar. Oh, well, she tried!
Here is Laurieanne's email that she sent me to post for her, so I will include it here:
Title: Losing Inches is Everything!
Hello everyone,
Don't worry Kate, you are not alone in communicating with everyone. Unfortunately the blog is not working for me so I'm just gonna e-mail my comments to everyone...If you want to post it on the blog for me that would be great!
Over the last two weeks I have really enjoyed creating new dishes that are challenge friendly...I really appreciate all the recipes that Bonnie sends us. I made the lasagna roll-ups for my family this week and they were a huge hit. I substituted the tomatoes for a homemade pasta sauce that I conjured up last week and it was truly delicious. The only complaint my husband has with the food is that there just isn't enough room in our freezer for all the fish and extra prep stuff I made!
I haven't weighed myself yet but I have been measuring myself. So far I have lost 3 inches off my waist and 4 inches off my abdomen. Hooray for the challenge.
I am committed to exercising a minimum of thirty minutes every day; usually I do fast walking (which I love to do) as the weather is conducive to my staying committed to this form of exercise. I try to do strength training at least three times a week, however sometimes I only do crunches and core and upper body work as the walking already strengthens my legs and butt. I find that developing a routine for the exercise is key...I usually exercise at lunch. The eating clean part of the challenge has fast become easy as well. What worked for me was to have only natural products in the house and then I'm not tempted...my daughter finds breakfast the hardest as we no longer have sugar cereal in the house...She's getting used to eating wheat muffets and porridge!
By the way Kate, I'm planning a cheat day this Sunday..I'll be visiting a friend's for Thanksgiving and they are not challenge friendly people...so....I'm just gonna have to sacrifice for twenty-four hours and drink all the wine I can! I'll try to keep everyone posted as to my progress. Good luck everybody...stay strong!
If you have managed to make it through Thanksgiving without cheating, congrats. If you had to cheat, don't be too hard on yourself. YOU JUST BETTER MAKE IT UP WITH EXERCISE POINTS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOL! I think I managed to make up my infraction last week with exercise points, so I am very proud.
I am aware that some of us have been able to lose some weight recently, so that is wonderful. I myself thought the scale wasn't moving much past my initial 4lb loss, but when I stepped on the scale this morning I had lost 7 lbs!!! Congrats also to Amy who lost 8 lbs!
I wanted to share some victories with you. Friday I went to a party which celebrated all birthdays in October, including mine. I brought blue corn chips, spelt bread and water with me. I had some homemade chili someone made for dinner, along with a piece of the spelt bread. I had someone else's homemade salsa with my blue corn chips and I drank my water all night long admidst drunken loudmouths--needless to say, I felt great the next day! However, I did make Isaac's brother put a piece of homemade cake in a baggie in his freezer for me to enjoy at some point in the future, maybe in December sometime. However, at the same time, I will probably tell him this week to go ahead and eat it, as I don't even want it. Why save that for myself? December will bring enough cake and cookies with it, that I don't need to have cake from October too. It did make me feel better at the time to do that though, it helped me deal with it! LOL!
As of tonight I have made it through 2 thanksgiving dinners. At the first one, I had the turkey, roasted veg's, and green beans. For dessert I had some grapes, strawberries and melon. Water to drink.
Tonight I had turkey, gravy, squash, sweet potato, green beans, and beets.
OH OH OH! I have to tell you--I made the Guacamole from the Niagara Challenge book and it was a huge hit! I brought it to the dinner we had tonight. I also made the Nut Balls and the Lemon Squares, but I ended up combining them somewhat.
When I made the lemon squares, I didn't read the instructions well enough, and I just tried to blend it all together at once, but you HAVE to first just blend the nuts and the dates AND THEN add the lemon juice and zest. It doesn't work when you do it all together. So instead of wasting it, I added it to half of my nut balls, and they tasted even better. YUM YUM YUM!! So worth it and sooooo easy! You HAVE to make them! You don't have to do my crazy mistake ones, just do the regular recipe and they will taste real good. Everyone loved them too!
Tomorrow morning I am making the Apple Tart for dessert for my 3rd thanksgiving dinner (lunch) and I have no doubt that everyone will love it. I am also making myself yogurt cheese using cheesecloth and yogurt to go with it.
So, Happy Turkey day and I send you many wishes of strength, but more importantly, if you DO cheat, DON'T beat yourself up over it, just make sure you get back on the wagon and continue on like usual, being strong.
PS--i felt so bad tonight, my Aunt Linda seemed a bit offended when I walked in with guacamole, chips, and nut balls. She said "What, you think I wouldn't take care of you?" and then she proceeded to proudly show me the Ace's Bakery "Multigrain" bread, chips and toasts that she got for me. Second ingredient: white flour. Third ingredient: sugar. Thank god I brought my blue corn chips! She also made broccoli. and covered it with cheese. And made sweet potato: and covered it with sugar. Oh, well, she tried!
Here is Laurieanne's email that she sent me to post for her, so I will include it here:
Title: Losing Inches is Everything!
Hello everyone,
Don't worry Kate, you are not alone in communicating with everyone. Unfortunately the blog is not working for me so I'm just gonna e-mail my comments to everyone...If you want to post it on the blog for me that would be great!
Over the last two weeks I have really enjoyed creating new dishes that are challenge friendly...I really appreciate all the recipes that Bonnie sends us. I made the lasagna roll-ups for my family this week and they were a huge hit. I substituted the tomatoes for a homemade pasta sauce that I conjured up last week and it was truly delicious. The only complaint my husband has with the food is that there just isn't enough room in our freezer for all the fish and extra prep stuff I made!
I haven't weighed myself yet but I have been measuring myself. So far I have lost 3 inches off my waist and 4 inches off my abdomen. Hooray for the challenge.
I am committed to exercising a minimum of thirty minutes every day; usually I do fast walking (which I love to do) as the weather is conducive to my staying committed to this form of exercise. I try to do strength training at least three times a week, however sometimes I only do crunches and core and upper body work as the walking already strengthens my legs and butt. I find that developing a routine for the exercise is key...I usually exercise at lunch. The eating clean part of the challenge has fast become easy as well. What worked for me was to have only natural products in the house and then I'm not tempted...my daughter finds breakfast the hardest as we no longer have sugar cereal in the house...She's getting used to eating wheat muffets and porridge!
By the way Kate, I'm planning a cheat day this Sunday..I'll be visiting a friend's for Thanksgiving and they are not challenge friendly people...so....I'm just gonna have to sacrifice for twenty-four hours and drink all the wine I can! I'll try to keep everyone posted as to my progress. Good luck everybody...stay strong!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
CHEAT!
Yup, I cheated. I confess.
Here's what happened: I just finished telling you about all my challenges coming up and how I was planning on dealing with them. Then I was dealt a blow. My mom called me up at 5pm (when I was trying to figure out what to have for dinner) and she told me that they were having a staff meeting at the Wellington Court tonight (if you have never been there, you should really go sometime, or just look it up online) and I was invited for a wine tasting with the head guy from Henry of Pelham winery, and then a 5 course meal. I told her I wasn't allowed to have wine and she said "Oh, who cares! This is one of those experiences you just can't pass up". So I hmmnd and hawed for about 5 seconds and then I accepted the invite. However, I was planning on being late for the wine tasting so that I wouldn't "have" to have any. Unfortunately I was right on time. I drank the wine. I had sparkling rose, pinot noir and chardonnay. I felt a little drunk, actually.
Then, came the food. Surprisingly challenge-friendly actually, although I am sure there were many hidden cheats, like honey or sugar added to some.
First I had oysters---Never had them before! I was real scared to try them, they were something I always said I would never have, but I had to do it. I was at the Wellington. They were actually pretty f'n good. Paired with a little sparking wine, it really tasted nice. Challenge friendly, aside from the wine.
Then came a pan-fried trout on butternut squash puree with smoked pork neck (yes, I said pork neck) and a carrot salad. MMMMmmm...pork neck tasted like salami!
Then came a gnocci, not challenge friendly as it was in a cream sauce although I didn't eat much of the sauce at all. The gnocci was paired with some shellfish. Oh yea, the cream sauce was made with vodka so definetely not challenge friendly.
Then came a boston lettuce salad with pear which was amazing and possibly challenge friendly although the dressing tasted sweet so perhaps not.
Then came the main meal which was chicken stuffed with wild rice risotto, some swiss chard and some other vegetable--very friendly!
Then-dessert. I was afraid. Afraid I was about to just blow the whole thing out of the water...it was--get this--GOAT'S MILK panna cotta with some fruit sauce. I am SURE there was sugar in there somewhere, HOWEVER I still think a dessert that is mainly goat's milk is pretty cool. It was very good as well, not at all sweet and very light.
So, here's my conclusion:
I walked away tonight, 3 points in the hole, a little drunk, but still feeling light, airy and not at all weighed down or heavy. I had a five-star meal for FREE, a private wine tasting with the guy who is in charge of the vineyards, taught how to swirl, smell and taste (swish) and a good time with family and friends.
I think we do need to take advantage of these oppourtunities when they come our way, and not beat ourselves up for it. I have done amazingly well this past week, eating healthy and loving every minute of it. AND I am honest which has to count for something as well.
The only thing is, I have to make sure that I am just as strict with myself tomorrow morning as I have been all along, as sometimes something like this can change the way you think, and that would be disasterous.
So I promise that tomorrow morning I will forget this ever happened, like a good one night stand, and get back on the straight and narrow.
Here's to smoked pork neck.
Cheers.
Kate
Here's what happened: I just finished telling you about all my challenges coming up and how I was planning on dealing with them. Then I was dealt a blow. My mom called me up at 5pm (when I was trying to figure out what to have for dinner) and she told me that they were having a staff meeting at the Wellington Court tonight (if you have never been there, you should really go sometime, or just look it up online) and I was invited for a wine tasting with the head guy from Henry of Pelham winery, and then a 5 course meal. I told her I wasn't allowed to have wine and she said "Oh, who cares! This is one of those experiences you just can't pass up". So I hmmnd and hawed for about 5 seconds and then I accepted the invite. However, I was planning on being late for the wine tasting so that I wouldn't "have" to have any. Unfortunately I was right on time. I drank the wine. I had sparkling rose, pinot noir and chardonnay. I felt a little drunk, actually.
Then, came the food. Surprisingly challenge-friendly actually, although I am sure there were many hidden cheats, like honey or sugar added to some.
First I had oysters---Never had them before! I was real scared to try them, they were something I always said I would never have, but I had to do it. I was at the Wellington. They were actually pretty f'n good. Paired with a little sparking wine, it really tasted nice. Challenge friendly, aside from the wine.
Then came a pan-fried trout on butternut squash puree with smoked pork neck (yes, I said pork neck) and a carrot salad. MMMMmmm...pork neck tasted like salami!
Then came a gnocci, not challenge friendly as it was in a cream sauce although I didn't eat much of the sauce at all. The gnocci was paired with some shellfish. Oh yea, the cream sauce was made with vodka so definetely not challenge friendly.
Then came a boston lettuce salad with pear which was amazing and possibly challenge friendly although the dressing tasted sweet so perhaps not.
Then came the main meal which was chicken stuffed with wild rice risotto, some swiss chard and some other vegetable--very friendly!
Then-dessert. I was afraid. Afraid I was about to just blow the whole thing out of the water...it was--get this--GOAT'S MILK panna cotta with some fruit sauce. I am SURE there was sugar in there somewhere, HOWEVER I still think a dessert that is mainly goat's milk is pretty cool. It was very good as well, not at all sweet and very light.
So, here's my conclusion:
I walked away tonight, 3 points in the hole, a little drunk, but still feeling light, airy and not at all weighed down or heavy. I had a five-star meal for FREE, a private wine tasting with the guy who is in charge of the vineyards, taught how to swirl, smell and taste (swish) and a good time with family and friends.
I think we do need to take advantage of these oppourtunities when they come our way, and not beat ourselves up for it. I have done amazingly well this past week, eating healthy and loving every minute of it. AND I am honest which has to count for something as well.
The only thing is, I have to make sure that I am just as strict with myself tomorrow morning as I have been all along, as sometimes something like this can change the way you think, and that would be disasterous.
So I promise that tomorrow morning I will forget this ever happened, like a good one night stand, and get back on the straight and narrow.
Here's to smoked pork neck.
Cheers.
Kate
October is a bad month
I love the month of October. It is the month in which I was born, it is the month in which we have Thanksgiving, and it is the month in which my wedding anniversary is, and it is the month in which Halloween is. All of which make this month especially challenging for me. Not to mention the copious amounts of other birthdays that fall in this month.
My big challenges will start this Friday when I will attend an "October Babies Birthday Bash" at my brother-in-law's house. It is to celebrate, like, 15 people's birthdays, including mine, and our wedding anniversary. There will be a BBQ, cake and lots of drinks. Yea me. Not going to cheat, though. Not worth it in the least.
Then, comes Thanksgiving weekend in which I am sure I will attend at least 2 Thanksgiving dinners with lots and lots of yummy desserts. Not to mention the Balls Falls Thanksgiving Craft Show where you can get all sorts of yummy eats, and sample all sorts of other treats and dips and candy. Really, why else do you go? Guess I'm packing up a cooler for myself that day.
I am confident Thanksgiving dinner at my mom's will go smoothly, as I can have control or influence over what is served for dinner, and make sure that there is lots I can have: beets, sweet potatoes, homemade cranberry sauce made with stevia (I'm going to try it!), gravy made with whole wheat flour etc... Plus I think I will make the apple tart in the recipe book for myself and have it with yogurt. But any other Thanksgiving dinners I attend on Isaac's side of the family will be awkward as I will have to call ahead of time, explain that I can't have certain things, ask what they will be serving, and ask if I can bring my own stuff so that they don't have to go out of their way. Not to mention that we will be celebrating my birthday at 1 or 2 of these functions. Again, I will not cheat. (Don't worry, it's coming!)
Next, I have my wedding anniversary on October 15th. No chocolates for me. :(
Okay, here it is now. The biggie. My birthday and my mom's birthday is on October 18th. I have already decided that I WILL cheat on that day. It's my birthday, come on. Here's the thing though: my mom and I have reservations at the Wellington Court the day BEFORE our birthdays, on the Friday night. There will probably be challenge-friendly options there for me for dinner, however the dessert is amazing and it's one of those things that you don't get a chance to have very often. This is the kind of restaurant you only go to once a year, if that.
Now, I have to decide what is more important: I can forgo the points and still have a fairly healthy, clean day aside from a few minor infractions. Can I forgo the points 2 days in a row, but still feel okay about it because at least I know I didn't really cheat ALL that badly? Or will losing the points really bother me and bum me out? I don't know yet, it's still 2 weeks away so I will have to decide. The other option is to just go all out at least for one day, and enjoy all the things I miss, like wine, chocolate, creamy pastas, and rich foods. Is it worth the calories and the weight gain? I don't really think so, no.
Then comes my birthday night and going out for a date with my husband...dinner and drinks.
After that, comes Halloween. It won't be too tempting for me as Michaela is really too young to trick or treat so my house won't be filled with candy from her...but we will be handing some out I suppose. We'll be the worst house on the block and send out Sesame Snaps, like my mom does. HA HA.
So, my friends, if you think you are going to have a hard month, just think of me and be glad you are not in my shoes!
My big challenges will start this Friday when I will attend an "October Babies Birthday Bash" at my brother-in-law's house. It is to celebrate, like, 15 people's birthdays, including mine, and our wedding anniversary. There will be a BBQ, cake and lots of drinks. Yea me. Not going to cheat, though. Not worth it in the least.
Then, comes Thanksgiving weekend in which I am sure I will attend at least 2 Thanksgiving dinners with lots and lots of yummy desserts. Not to mention the Balls Falls Thanksgiving Craft Show where you can get all sorts of yummy eats, and sample all sorts of other treats and dips and candy. Really, why else do you go? Guess I'm packing up a cooler for myself that day.
I am confident Thanksgiving dinner at my mom's will go smoothly, as I can have control or influence over what is served for dinner, and make sure that there is lots I can have: beets, sweet potatoes, homemade cranberry sauce made with stevia (I'm going to try it!), gravy made with whole wheat flour etc... Plus I think I will make the apple tart in the recipe book for myself and have it with yogurt. But any other Thanksgiving dinners I attend on Isaac's side of the family will be awkward as I will have to call ahead of time, explain that I can't have certain things, ask what they will be serving, and ask if I can bring my own stuff so that they don't have to go out of their way. Not to mention that we will be celebrating my birthday at 1 or 2 of these functions. Again, I will not cheat. (Don't worry, it's coming!)
Next, I have my wedding anniversary on October 15th. No chocolates for me. :(
Okay, here it is now. The biggie. My birthday and my mom's birthday is on October 18th. I have already decided that I WILL cheat on that day. It's my birthday, come on. Here's the thing though: my mom and I have reservations at the Wellington Court the day BEFORE our birthdays, on the Friday night. There will probably be challenge-friendly options there for me for dinner, however the dessert is amazing and it's one of those things that you don't get a chance to have very often. This is the kind of restaurant you only go to once a year, if that.
Now, I have to decide what is more important: I can forgo the points and still have a fairly healthy, clean day aside from a few minor infractions. Can I forgo the points 2 days in a row, but still feel okay about it because at least I know I didn't really cheat ALL that badly? Or will losing the points really bother me and bum me out? I don't know yet, it's still 2 weeks away so I will have to decide. The other option is to just go all out at least for one day, and enjoy all the things I miss, like wine, chocolate, creamy pastas, and rich foods. Is it worth the calories and the weight gain? I don't really think so, no.
Then comes my birthday night and going out for a date with my husband...dinner and drinks.
After that, comes Halloween. It won't be too tempting for me as Michaela is really too young to trick or treat so my house won't be filled with candy from her...but we will be handing some out I suppose. We'll be the worst house on the block and send out Sesame Snaps, like my mom does. HA HA.
So, my friends, if you think you are going to have a hard month, just think of me and be glad you are not in my shoes!
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Week One Over!
Well, here we are heading into week 2 already. How is everyone feeling? I was thinking that for anyone that is NOT having a very good time on this challenge that my blogs might be really annoying and way too positive. So hopefully everyone is having a great time! LOL!
We are heading into week two which is great and scary. I am wondering if I will be able to keep up this meal-making for another 7 weeks. I think it might get tiring!
The good thing is, I found a restaurant which is very challenge-friendly: Pan Cafe on St.Paul St in St. Catharines. Check out www.pancafe.ca to see their menus. Some of the stuff doesn't SOUND good, but IS really good. Read the "about us" section on the website to see their philosophy. Also, they serve brown rice with everything, and they also serve De La Terre bread which we are allowed--well, we are allowed the whole wheat and rye and the whole wheat oat and raisin. Not the Spelt as it is not made with WHOLE spelt flour.
The weekend was a bit challenging as I usually eat out all weekend, and I had a few moments where I didn't know what to have, but I am lucky as I can always scoot over to the Peanut Mill to get a frozen dinner at any time of day or night. It's great though, as this challenge will be saving us money with the fact that I can no longer eat out much. And I'm using everything in the fridge. I was so happy on Saturday night when I came home and didn't know what to make and almost went out and got something. I opened the cupboards and the fridge and took out everything I had. I ended up stir-frying yellow peppers, onions, zucchini, a tiny bit of celery and cashews. I boiled some kamut rigatoni and put it all together along with some pesto and some avocado oil, and it was sooooooooooooooo good! Right now I am snacking on an apple, some blue corn chips with hummus and hot sauce, and some olives (of course!)
Anyway, please remember to send me your points for this week at the lastest Monday morning so I can figure out how to put them in the spreadsheet Bonnie sent me and email it off to her.
Please also contribute to this blog! I feel like I'm all alone in this world...................:)
We are heading into week two which is great and scary. I am wondering if I will be able to keep up this meal-making for another 7 weeks. I think it might get tiring!
The good thing is, I found a restaurant which is very challenge-friendly: Pan Cafe on St.Paul St in St. Catharines. Check out www.pancafe.ca to see their menus. Some of the stuff doesn't SOUND good, but IS really good. Read the "about us" section on the website to see their philosophy. Also, they serve brown rice with everything, and they also serve De La Terre bread which we are allowed--well, we are allowed the whole wheat and rye and the whole wheat oat and raisin. Not the Spelt as it is not made with WHOLE spelt flour.
The weekend was a bit challenging as I usually eat out all weekend, and I had a few moments where I didn't know what to have, but I am lucky as I can always scoot over to the Peanut Mill to get a frozen dinner at any time of day or night. It's great though, as this challenge will be saving us money with the fact that I can no longer eat out much. And I'm using everything in the fridge. I was so happy on Saturday night when I came home and didn't know what to make and almost went out and got something. I opened the cupboards and the fridge and took out everything I had. I ended up stir-frying yellow peppers, onions, zucchini, a tiny bit of celery and cashews. I boiled some kamut rigatoni and put it all together along with some pesto and some avocado oil, and it was sooooooooooooooo good! Right now I am snacking on an apple, some blue corn chips with hummus and hot sauce, and some olives (of course!)
Anyway, please remember to send me your points for this week at the lastest Monday morning so I can figure out how to put them in the spreadsheet Bonnie sent me and email it off to her.
Please also contribute to this blog! I feel like I'm all alone in this world...................:)
Thursday, October 2, 2008
food
I took another picture of my lunch today. Lentil curry with brown rice, and a really good avocado salad. I need to share a few things with you: I usually just use balsamic vinegar and Udo's oil for salad dressing, so I am used to making that. Sometimes I would like a little sweetness in my dressing, so I will add honey or maple syrup. But as we can't use those things, I just thought I wouldn't be able to have my special dressing. Today, though, I was a real chef! I saw this fruit spread that I got at my mom's store that Bonnie confirmed was Challenge-friendly. It's basically just jam, but it has no sugar in it, and is just sweetened with organic grape juice. It is actually quite sweet, and I love it. I added some of the fruit spread to my dressing (1 tsp) and shook it up, and it was sooooooooooooooooo good. Not too sweet, just a little and it was amazing. You can use it like jam with almond butter on challenge friendly bread (which my mom also has some amazing ones like whole wheat oat and raisin and a spelt one too). I am cooking up a pork tenderloin tonight (I know, I know, pork/beef is only once per week) but I also wanted a little sweetness added to the marinade, as typically you might marinade it in dijon mustard and maple syrup. So, I think I will try the jam and mix it up in some oil and dijon mustard for the marinade. I'll let you know how it works!
However, I am aware that I shouldn't use it too much, as it still is sugar to my body, but I promise I won't. Maybe only every couple days.
Had the oatmeal for breakfast w/fresh local strawberries and rice milk and chopped pecans and it was soooo good too! I am actually enjoying this food far more then I thought.
I was kind of craving a veggie sub from Subway for lunch but knew I couldn't have it, but you know what? The lunch that I had was far far better tasting.
I am surprised at how many veggies I am actually eating as I thought I would have a hard time and I thought I would eat more fruit then veggies however I 'm not at all! I am eating much more veggies. For my snack the past few nights (yes, I definetely need an evening snack-I'm breastfeeding, I need it to get me through the night!) I had some hummus with carrots and celery, an apple and some almond butter or nuts. Maybe a few olives too! :)
I am not missing sugar at all, for some reason. Also, I am realizing that I am eating much more then usual, since we are supposed to have snacks and everything which is really good as I am never really hungry, like I used to be. That helps with the cravings, I'm sure. Since I'm never hungry, I never crave anything bad.
Oh, I have to go get my child who is getting impatient!
Hope everyone has a great day!
Kate
PS--both Amy and I made the dressing in the book, and it was way too Oily. I don't measure when I make dressing--just add a few glugs of oil, then a bunch of whichever vinegar you choose, and then shake it up and taste. If it tastes too oily on your finger, then add a bit more vinegar. Most recipes I find are way too oily tasting, so I always have to add more vinegar.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
day 3 down...almost
Hi folks,
Hope your day went well, and everyone is eating well and exercising! I have yet to make the Lara Bars (lemon squares)or the Nut Balls but I do really want to make them. Maybe I'll do it this weekend.
Today went very well indeed. I was in a bit of a panic when I realized that I couldn't get to the YMCA during the day to do my strength workout, but I was able to go once my husband got home from work with the car, so I went from 4-5pm. Same thing happened yesterday--I didn't get out for my walk due to the rainy day, like I had planned, so I had to go after dinner which I thought would be too late for Michaela's schedule, but it worked out perfectly. I went for a 1 hour walk which included a HUGE hill I had to walk up. And today I did an hour strength workout which ROCKED! I love lifting weights! I changed my program a bit to incorporate what they have in the book, and added push-ups and step-ups, as I'll be damned if I can't do more then 10 push ups at the end of this!
Oh, more good news. I weighed myself this morning, which I didn't want to do, but I wanted to know how much Michaela weighed so I had to weigh myself first, and then after while I held her.
I lost 4 lbs! crazy. I thought my jeans felt bigger! So I put on another pair which have always felt a bit too small, and they fit perfect! This is fun!
Michaela, by the way, is 18.5 lbs!
I ate a real big salad for lunch which I took a picture of. I will add it here once I download it. Fun. (which means you people should check out the blog site to see the pic rather then just read the emails--I am sure you can figure out how to post!!!!!)
allright, signing off for now,
kate
Monday, September 29, 2008
A lovely day
Hey folks, I hope everyone had a great first day. You guys really gotta figure out how to post on here though...
Well, I never had my perogies, or much chocolate, but I did enjoy the food at the park at Grape and Wine, and a few glasses of wine...My husband is sitting beside me right now on the couch digging into a bag of Sour Cream and Onion Lays and I almost reached in the bag and grabbed a few--oh, guess not! No loss, I'm not a chip person anyway. Although for my snack tonight I did have Blue Corn Chips, and Pace Salsa with 1/2 avocado stirred into it!
Regardless, I understand what Laurieanne is going through, however I've done a few detox's already so I'm used to having to coexist with someone who's not with the program! Last night I stayed up until 11:30pm creating my own kitchen cabinet with all my own stuff. Greatly helps when looking for something to eat!
I'll give ya'll a rundown of my day, exercise and food wise. Don't worry, I won't do this every day, but just to give you all maybe some ideas for food etc..
breakfast: plain organic yogurt w/wheat-free apple & raisin muesli and blueberries
snack: 2 kamut cakes (like rice cakes, but better) w/almond butter and sugar-free raspberry jam, small V-8.
exercise: Strollercize (1.5 hours, lunges, running, squats, strength, hills, walking)
lunch: big salad w/blueberries, walnuts, goat cheese, avocado, tomato, carrots and balsamic & Udo's oil and dijon mustard vineagrette
snack: 1 kamut cake w/almond butter and 8 raisins
dinner: Chickpea Curry w/brown rice & peas, 1 apple, a few (6) olives
snack: blue corn chips, salsa w/avocado
I also drank a lot of water! I feel good, but I just remembered I need to stretch before I go to bed. My hamstrings need a challenge of their own!
I am so happy we are all doing this and thanks for being my team! We can kick ASS! Plan on coming to the Peanut Mill this Friday evening for the tasting! We'll have quite a few really yummy things!
Well, I never had my perogies, or much chocolate, but I did enjoy the food at the park at Grape and Wine, and a few glasses of wine...My husband is sitting beside me right now on the couch digging into a bag of Sour Cream and Onion Lays and I almost reached in the bag and grabbed a few--oh, guess not! No loss, I'm not a chip person anyway. Although for my snack tonight I did have Blue Corn Chips, and Pace Salsa with 1/2 avocado stirred into it!
Regardless, I understand what Laurieanne is going through, however I've done a few detox's already so I'm used to having to coexist with someone who's not with the program! Last night I stayed up until 11:30pm creating my own kitchen cabinet with all my own stuff. Greatly helps when looking for something to eat!
I'll give ya'll a rundown of my day, exercise and food wise. Don't worry, I won't do this every day, but just to give you all maybe some ideas for food etc..
breakfast: plain organic yogurt w/wheat-free apple & raisin muesli and blueberries
snack: 2 kamut cakes (like rice cakes, but better) w/almond butter and sugar-free raspberry jam, small V-8.
exercise: Strollercize (1.5 hours, lunges, running, squats, strength, hills, walking)
lunch: big salad w/blueberries, walnuts, goat cheese, avocado, tomato, carrots and balsamic & Udo's oil and dijon mustard vineagrette
snack: 1 kamut cake w/almond butter and 8 raisins
dinner: Chickpea Curry w/brown rice & peas, 1 apple, a few (6) olives
snack: blue corn chips, salsa w/avocado
I also drank a lot of water! I feel good, but I just remembered I need to stretch before I go to bed. My hamstrings need a challenge of their own!
I am so happy we are all doing this and thanks for being my team! We can kick ASS! Plan on coming to the Peanut Mill this Friday evening for the tasting! We'll have quite a few really yummy things!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
The end is near....
So, I didn't do as well as I thought I would this week. But I think it's because I knew it wasn't really the challenge yet. However, I tried real hard to have a good breakfast every day as I know that will be my biggest challenge. I had plain yogurt (organic!) with apple and raisin muesli (wheat and honey free) which is quite sour when you are used to having honey on it. However, I enjoyed it more and more every day which makes me quite happy. Yesterday I went all the way to the Peanut Mill to have a decaf coffee with some dark chocolate. But all in all, I have not pigged out the way I was planning to, which is good, and when I hopped on the scale tonight, I apparantly already lost 1 lb!
Oh, that's another thing. I have been entertaining the thought of NOT stepping on the scale for the entire 8 weeks, and just finding out my weight at the final weigh-in. I can see how this might help and also might be detrimental. For instance, if I expect that I lost more then I actually lose, and I end up being disappointed at the final weigh-in, that would be a disappointing end to a long, hard journey. However, if it went the other way, that might be a real high! We'll see, I might just do a mid-point weigh in like they do on that show, X-Weighted, so I can have an idea of where I'm at after 4 weeks. How much weight can one lose in just 8 weeks anyway?
I didn't end up exercising as much as I planned either, but there were many reasons for that, including a brand new baby (not mine) and my mother-in-law coming to town. But there will always be those things happening, and I have to work around them, and be organized enough to still make the time to go to workout, or go for that walk. As I said earlier, I think working out will be more of a challenge for me, then the eating. As long as I exercise 1 hour per day, I will be happy. My biggest challenge will be babysitting so we will see how that goes!
By the way, I tried the almond butter on a kamut "rice" cake last night and it was actually quite good. With some apples on the side, it made me jump up and down with glee.
Ciao,
Katie
Oh, that's another thing. I have been entertaining the thought of NOT stepping on the scale for the entire 8 weeks, and just finding out my weight at the final weigh-in. I can see how this might help and also might be detrimental. For instance, if I expect that I lost more then I actually lose, and I end up being disappointed at the final weigh-in, that would be a disappointing end to a long, hard journey. However, if it went the other way, that might be a real high! We'll see, I might just do a mid-point weigh in like they do on that show, X-Weighted, so I can have an idea of where I'm at after 4 weeks. How much weight can one lose in just 8 weeks anyway?
I didn't end up exercising as much as I planned either, but there were many reasons for that, including a brand new baby (not mine) and my mother-in-law coming to town. But there will always be those things happening, and I have to work around them, and be organized enough to still make the time to go to workout, or go for that walk. As I said earlier, I think working out will be more of a challenge for me, then the eating. As long as I exercise 1 hour per day, I will be happy. My biggest challenge will be babysitting so we will see how that goes!
By the way, I tried the almond butter on a kamut "rice" cake last night and it was actually quite good. With some apples on the side, it made me jump up and down with glee.
Ciao,
Katie
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
This one is from Laurieanne:
You are SOOOO not alone:
Age:41 and 3/4
Weight: 147
Chest: 391/2
Waist: 35 1/2
Abdomen: 37 3/4
Hips: 391/2
Thighs: 221/2 & 221/2
Calves: 14 1/4 & 14 1/4
Arms: 12 & 12
# of step-ups in 90 sec: 51
# of push ups: 10
Sit and Reach: I just manged to reach my toes, only out of sheer PMS!!
from what Carlea says, it only gets better from here...all I know is, I'm going to do this if it kills me...by the way, the Soy milk just might.
--Laurieanne
Age:41 and 3/4
Weight: 147
Chest: 391/2
Waist: 35 1/2
Abdomen: 37 3/4
Hips: 391/2
Thighs: 221/2 & 221/2
Calves: 14 1/4 & 14 1/4
Arms: 12 & 12
# of step-ups in 90 sec: 51
# of push ups: 10
Sit and Reach: I just manged to reach my toes, only out of sheer PMS!!
from what Carlea says, it only gets better from here...all I know is, I'm going to do this if it kills me...by the way, the Soy milk just might.
--Laurieanne
From Amy and Mike:
I'm still completely clueless about this blogging thing so I'll just email for now until I figure it out...
Here's my measurements:
Date: September 22/08
Age: 32
Weight:150.4
Chest: 39
Waist: 34
Abdomen: 40
Hips: 40.5
Thighs: 24 1/4 & 24
Calves: 14 1/4 & 14
Arms: 11 3/4 & 12
# of step-ups in 90 sec: 57
# of push ups: 16 on toes
Sit and Reach: 6 inches past toes
Here's Mike's...
Date: Sept 22/08
Age:30
Weight: 188
Chest: 39 3/4
Waist: 37
Abdomen: 40
Hips: 40 1/2
Thighs: 22 & 21 1/2
Calves: 15 1/2 & 15
Arms: 12 3/4 & 12 1/2
# of step-ups in 90 sec: 68
# of push ups: 25 on toes
Sit and Reach: 2 inches past toes
So, I got super inspired today by everyone doing their exercising and eating
well so I joined the gym and took a step class. I have a lot of work to do but I felt awesome!
Here's my measurements:
Date: September 22/08
Age: 32
Weight:150.4
Chest: 39
Waist: 34
Abdomen: 40
Hips: 40.5
Thighs: 24 1/4 & 24
Calves: 14 1/4 & 14
Arms: 11 3/4 & 12
# of step-ups in 90 sec: 57
# of push ups: 16 on toes
Sit and Reach: 6 inches past toes
Here's Mike's...
Date: Sept 22/08
Age:30
Weight: 188
Chest: 39 3/4
Waist: 37
Abdomen: 40
Hips: 40 1/2
Thighs: 22 & 21 1/2
Calves: 15 1/2 & 15
Arms: 12 3/4 & 12 1/2
# of step-ups in 90 sec: 68
# of push ups: 25 on toes
Sit and Reach: 2 inches past toes
So, I got super inspired today by everyone doing their exercising and eating
well so I joined the gym and took a step class. I have a lot of work to do but I felt awesome!
Monday, September 22, 2008
I'm real brave to do this by the way
Okay, I'm tired and I have to go to bed. So, I won't beat around the bush. If anyone wants to post their results too, I would only be too happy. Otherwise, I'll be the only one to bear my soul.
Date: Sept 22/08
Age:30
Weight: 170
Chest: 39
Waist: 33 1/4
Abdomen: 39 1/2
Hips: 43
Thighs: 25 & 24 3/4
Calves: 15 1/2 & 15 3/4
Arms: 13 1/2 & 13 1/2
# of step-ups in 90 sec: 54
# of push ups: 6 (um, and they were hard, too)
Sit and Reach: 6 1/2 inches FROM my toes (was not able to touch, no where close!)
So starting tomorrow I'm doing push ups and stretches religiously!!!!!!!!
Date: Sept 22/08
Age:30
Weight: 170
Chest: 39
Waist: 33 1/4
Abdomen: 39 1/2
Hips: 43
Thighs: 25 & 24 3/4
Calves: 15 1/2 & 15 3/4
Arms: 13 1/2 & 13 1/2
# of step-ups in 90 sec: 54
# of push ups: 6 (um, and they were hard, too)
Sit and Reach: 6 1/2 inches FROM my toes (was not able to touch, no where close!)
So starting tomorrow I'm doing push ups and stretches religiously!!!!!!!!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
mmmm...maybe not though
Just realized that since the weigh-in is tomorrow, then I might as well start trying to lose weight the minute I step off that scale, instead of stuffing my face for the next 7 days. Won't get no points for it, but the results will be that much better in 9 weeks time, then in 8 weeks time, especially if I don't pig out like I was planning too. So, my plan is to do all my grocery shopping tomorrow at The Peanut Mill and the market on Tuesday and only bring in the allowable stuff this week to fill my cupboards and fridge. I'm not going to be super-strict but neither am I going to pig out completely, as why add 10 more lbs just to have to take it off during the challenge? That could be 10 lbs that I actually LOSE....yeah, so no more. Although I will be enjoying my wine this week, especially at Grape and Wine which will be the last hurrah before the Challenge officially begins.
Good luck everyone, tomorrow, and I might even be brave enough to post the results here!
Good luck everyone, tomorrow, and I might even be brave enough to post the results here!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
I'm eating broccoli and tuna b4 blading!!
I'm shocked (and extremely surprised, might I add!) that today my mind set seems great. Like Kate I'm ready to feel strong and powerful again! Although mind you, I drank 2 brandy Alexanders and ate half a bag of Malteesers last night but today I have had only green tea and I'm eating a little carb and protein b4 hitting the canal for a rollerblade. Shocked..I tell you...I am motivated!
Kate Maple, I'm sorry you've been the only blogger thus far but I will do my best to input once and a while.
I couldn't get the same grocery store date as you so instead I'm going Thurs at 6:30. Last night I went and bought some Stevia- the sweetner we are allowed to try in my Green Tea and I like it. I'll lend you ladies some packets if you want to try. I am not going to miss the sugar so much..it's the wine, beer, coffee and saltness stuff I love. Perogies, sushi, and Pad Thai will be my worst sadnesses I feel however I going to try and make a Pad Thai that is challenge friendly. Kate, loading your house full of goodies is a really good idea. I would love to know about some of those frozen dinner options too for the days I'm either real lazy or on the go.
Oh and the other thing..for as long as I can remember I have drank a warmed or cold glass of skim milk b4 bed. So that is going to be a huge adjustment. I do not like soy milk much...but Almond milk I like and am not a stranger to..but I will not be drinking glasses of it ;)
Gotta go blade!
Can't wait to see my pessimistic blogs in the future..heee hee!
Kate Maple, I'm sorry you've been the only blogger thus far but I will do my best to input once and a while.
I couldn't get the same grocery store date as you so instead I'm going Thurs at 6:30. Last night I went and bought some Stevia- the sweetner we are allowed to try in my Green Tea and I like it. I'll lend you ladies some packets if you want to try. I am not going to miss the sugar so much..it's the wine, beer, coffee and saltness stuff I love. Perogies, sushi, and Pad Thai will be my worst sadnesses I feel however I going to try and make a Pad Thai that is challenge friendly. Kate, loading your house full of goodies is a really good idea. I would love to know about some of those frozen dinner options too for the days I'm either real lazy or on the go.
Oh and the other thing..for as long as I can remember I have drank a warmed or cold glass of skim milk b4 bed. So that is going to be a huge adjustment. I do not like soy milk much...but Almond milk I like and am not a stranger to..but I will not be drinking glasses of it ;)
Gotta go blade!
Can't wait to see my pessimistic blogs in the future..heee hee!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Holy shit
Allright, this is probably going to more difficult then any of us realized. And it's not the exercise that will be hard!
However I am really looking forward to this. I have done things like this before, when I've done cleanses where I can't have any sugar/dairy/wheat so it's not something that's new to me, however I've never done it for 8 weeks before!
I am excited, as I do know that when you are used to eating that way, you really don't miss the "bad" stuff.
I am looking in my cupboards and realizing that I better just start eating it all up now, and also realizing that I can't really buy any new stuff as I am not going to want it in the house in 2 weeks. I think I am going to start collecting stuff from The Peanut Mill so I have it in the house for when the challenge starts!
I also want to pre-plan the first few weeks meals and snacks so I can have the stuff in the house, and I know what I'm going to be eating. The best thing is that I can have oatmeal for breakfast, eggs and veggie sandwiches for lunch, and fish and veggies for dinner. Hard boiled eggs, nuts, olives, fruit, veggies and hummus are all real fun too and it makes me happy to think about eating such healthy food that I actually love.
I also am realizing that I might have a few cheat days early on, since my birthday falls in the middle of October. Some wine might be in order on that day! Not to mention good food and birthday cake. Already labelled my calender "CHEAT DAY". I should probably change it to "CHEAT WEEKEND".
I am thinking I also need to plan at least 3 Sushi Jade lunches and dinners in the next 2 weeks as no sushi for the next 56 days will hurt. My only consolance is that it is fall/wintertime and sushi is more of a light, summer food so perhaps I won't miss it as much.
I also know I will struggle with portion sizes. I've never been very good at carving a chicken breast into the size of my fist.
Regardless, I hope everyone will do their best and really use these next 8 weeks to create new habits for themselves.
Signing off,
Katie Anne
However I am really looking forward to this. I have done things like this before, when I've done cleanses where I can't have any sugar/dairy/wheat so it's not something that's new to me, however I've never done it for 8 weeks before!
I am excited, as I do know that when you are used to eating that way, you really don't miss the "bad" stuff.
I am looking in my cupboards and realizing that I better just start eating it all up now, and also realizing that I can't really buy any new stuff as I am not going to want it in the house in 2 weeks. I think I am going to start collecting stuff from The Peanut Mill so I have it in the house for when the challenge starts!
I also want to pre-plan the first few weeks meals and snacks so I can have the stuff in the house, and I know what I'm going to be eating. The best thing is that I can have oatmeal for breakfast, eggs and veggie sandwiches for lunch, and fish and veggies for dinner. Hard boiled eggs, nuts, olives, fruit, veggies and hummus are all real fun too and it makes me happy to think about eating such healthy food that I actually love.
I also am realizing that I might have a few cheat days early on, since my birthday falls in the middle of October. Some wine might be in order on that day! Not to mention good food and birthday cake. Already labelled my calender "CHEAT DAY". I should probably change it to "CHEAT WEEKEND".
I am thinking I also need to plan at least 3 Sushi Jade lunches and dinners in the next 2 weeks as no sushi for the next 56 days will hurt. My only consolance is that it is fall/wintertime and sushi is more of a light, summer food so perhaps I won't miss it as much.
I also know I will struggle with portion sizes. I've never been very good at carving a chicken breast into the size of my fist.
Regardless, I hope everyone will do their best and really use these next 8 weeks to create new habits for themselves.
Signing off,
Katie Anne
Monday, September 8, 2008
please contribute!
Hey Ladies,
I added 3 of you as authors, and I need the other two's email addresses so I can add them as authors as well. Then, whoever wants to post anything can also do so, and it can be our team blog! I've never done this before but I thought it might be neat to do so.
By the way, Rachael came up with the best team name ever. She had many cool suggestions, including "Bulge Busters" and "Fat Fighters" but I went ahead and claimed "Team Losing is Everything" as our title and I hope you all don't mind. If there are any objections, please feel free to let me know!
Have to go rescue baby from the evil jumparoo...
till next time...
Kate
I added 3 of you as authors, and I need the other two's email addresses so I can add them as authors as well. Then, whoever wants to post anything can also do so, and it can be our team blog! I've never done this before but I thought it might be neat to do so.
By the way, Rachael came up with the best team name ever. She had many cool suggestions, including "Bulge Busters" and "Fat Fighters" but I went ahead and claimed "Team Losing is Everything" as our title and I hope you all don't mind. If there are any objections, please feel free to let me know!
Have to go rescue baby from the evil jumparoo...
till next time...
Kate
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Let me introduce myself
I thought it might be fun to create a blog where I can share my thoughts, failures, triumphs, fears, and general tiredness and exhaustion during this challenge. I will be 31 this October and all I want is to be strong and healthy. Hopefully some weight loss occurs from me eating well and working out but I think I do best when I'm not so focused on the weight and what the scale says. However, this challenge is ultimately about numbers so I have to find a way to balance that with my desire to just be healthy, damn it. Three weeks until the official weigh-in where measurements will be taken. I am excited about the measurements. It's because I know how much I weigh (even though if I step on my scale 3 times in a row, it will give me a different number every time) but I have no idea of my measurements. It excites me to find out something new about my body I don't know. This last year I found out lots of new things about my body, like how it looks when my belly button turns inside out. And how it feels to have a human being inside my stomach, kicking me. How it feels to have my innards moved around and squished together to accommodate said human being. Mmm-hmm, lots of new things. So, measurements are exciting.
I am looking forward to this, all of this, and I really hope that it sets me on the right track for the rest of my life. To be a strong as a horse, and to be relaxed and happy.
Signing off,
Katie Maple
I am looking forward to this, all of this, and I really hope that it sets me on the right track for the rest of my life. To be a strong as a horse, and to be relaxed and happy.
Signing off,
Katie Maple
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