Day 59
Ok, I admit it. I have writer's block. I don't have any insightful revelations to report or funny stories to relate. It was just a regular Sunday.
I painted cornhole boards... did three loads of laundry... got caught up on Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice and went to the grocery store. That's pretty edgy and exciting stuff right?
Don't be jealous. I know it's easy to be enamored with my glamorous life. But, I put my pants on the same way you do. I'm just a regular girl out here trying to drop a few pounds... ok a hundred.
If it helps I can report that my legs hurt like hell and a lady at the grocery store pretty much thought I had no business buying a book called "Fit over 40". Her response after flipping through it was "you're not even in your 40s..." My response was "Thank you, but I"m actually 42." Tony told her we have good genes. I thought that was funny. The truth is probably that she couldn't get a good look at me because of my baseball hat, ponytail and glasses.
I'm sure I'll be more inspired tomorrow. It is Monday after all. And they are usually wrought with some kind of misadventure that makes good blog fodder. It's also a big milestone day. It's day 60... It's weigh in day... It's measurements day... and It's progress picture day...
Until then, you will all just have to be content to know that I'm doing just fine. :)
Cheers!
Margaret
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Make Every Minute Count
Day 58
Do you ever "daydream" your way to work and then suddenly realize you don't really remember driving the past few miles? This can happen with exercise too.
I can easily daydream my way through a workout and forget to tighten my abs for crunches or fail to contract my muscles during the active phase of a rep. Recently, I've been reading a lot about circuit training and I mentioned in an earlier post about trying out a new 17 minute circuit. Think about it. Which would you rather do... an hour of weight training or a 17 minute circuit that will burn more (YES More) calories and keep your furnace burning for hours after the session is complete? Seems like a no brainer right? One would think so, but I was skeptical until I put this theory to the test this week.
I'm a total convert now. I worked harder on my weight training days with this circuit than I have over the past several weeks with my regular routine. I also added 10 minutes to my cardio routine and it's made a HUGE difference. This week, I worked out 5 days instead of 6. Three sessions were 47 minutes (17 minute weight circuit; 30 minutes cardio); one 30 minute caridio session and one 17 minute circuit session. I finished each and every session drenched in sweat. This has not always been the case with my other sessions.
Shorter, more intense sessions are definitely the way to go. But, only if you make every minute count. 17 minutes of "light" activity isn't going to cut it. The key here is "intense" activity. This has resulted in more energy, better sleep and looser clothes. And, while I won't have the official number until Monday morning, I can tell you that the scale has finally started moving in the right direction again. YAY Me!
Cheers!
Margaret
Do you ever "daydream" your way to work and then suddenly realize you don't really remember driving the past few miles? This can happen with exercise too.
I can easily daydream my way through a workout and forget to tighten my abs for crunches or fail to contract my muscles during the active phase of a rep. Recently, I've been reading a lot about circuit training and I mentioned in an earlier post about trying out a new 17 minute circuit. Think about it. Which would you rather do... an hour of weight training or a 17 minute circuit that will burn more (YES More) calories and keep your furnace burning for hours after the session is complete? Seems like a no brainer right? One would think so, but I was skeptical until I put this theory to the test this week.
I'm a total convert now. I worked harder on my weight training days with this circuit than I have over the past several weeks with my regular routine. I also added 10 minutes to my cardio routine and it's made a HUGE difference. This week, I worked out 5 days instead of 6. Three sessions were 47 minutes (17 minute weight circuit; 30 minutes cardio); one 30 minute caridio session and one 17 minute circuit session. I finished each and every session drenched in sweat. This has not always been the case with my other sessions.
Shorter, more intense sessions are definitely the way to go. But, only if you make every minute count. 17 minutes of "light" activity isn't going to cut it. The key here is "intense" activity. This has resulted in more energy, better sleep and looser clothes. And, while I won't have the official number until Monday morning, I can tell you that the scale has finally started moving in the right direction again. YAY Me!
Cheers!
Margaret
Friday, February 26, 2010
The Paper Towel Theory
Day 57
The Paper Towel Theory was coined by a fella named Bob White.
Let's say I go out and buy two rolls of paper towels. Each has 365 sheets that resemble each day of my one year journey. I put one roll aside and keep it for future reference. Theoretically, this would be my before picture which you all saw at the beginning of my journey.
The other roll of paper towels represents me (Margar). The core of the paper towels represents the lean Margar. The paper towels themselves represent that fat that is covering lean Margar. Margar wants to lose 100 pounds of fat in one year. Each paper towel resembles approximately a quarter-pound of fat lost. Let's also assume that Margar loses this fat equally during each day of her one year journey.
Each day during the first week, I tear a sheet off the Margar roll, representing the fat I lost for the day. Next, you put Margar next to the full roll (“Big Al”) for comparison. No noticeable difference!!! Even at the end of the week! This can’t be working for me!
But, being a good and diligent Margar, I continue to follow my program. At the end of weeks one, two and four, I continue to compare Margar to Big Al, and still notice very little difference. These stinkin fitness "experts" MUST all be liars!
But I am determined! I work hard! Three more weeks go by, the sheets peeling off day after day, before I can muster the courage to stand next to Big Al again. Holy Myoplex! I SEE a difference! OK, not skinny, but less huge!!!
By the end of my one year journey, I envision that Margar is down to her lean dream, or somewhere near it. Margar is happy. Big Al – well he’s not so happy. :)
The lesson to be learned is that fat, like paper towels, comes off in sheets. When you are heavy, you are big around. And when you are big around,that fat is spread over a MUCH larger area – just like that outside towel sheet. The closer you get to the lean you, the more each lost pound of fat shows, because it is spread over a smaller area.
While the outside sheet may only cover 1 layer of the roll, the inside sheet may go around 4 times. That last sheet looks like it gives you 4 times the results of the first sheet, but in reality, the results are the same – your perception is just different! And you’ll never see the inside, if you aren’t patient while the outside is coming off!
I hope this theory inspires you as much as it inspired me.
Cheers!
Margaret (aka Margar)
The Paper Towel Theory was coined by a fella named Bob White.
Let's say I go out and buy two rolls of paper towels. Each has 365 sheets that resemble each day of my one year journey. I put one roll aside and keep it for future reference. Theoretically, this would be my before picture which you all saw at the beginning of my journey.
The other roll of paper towels represents me (Margar). The core of the paper towels represents the lean Margar. The paper towels themselves represent that fat that is covering lean Margar. Margar wants to lose 100 pounds of fat in one year. Each paper towel resembles approximately a quarter-pound of fat lost. Let's also assume that Margar loses this fat equally during each day of her one year journey.
Each day during the first week, I tear a sheet off the Margar roll, representing the fat I lost for the day. Next, you put Margar next to the full roll (“Big Al”) for comparison. No noticeable difference!!! Even at the end of the week! This can’t be working for me!
But, being a good and diligent Margar, I continue to follow my program. At the end of weeks one, two and four, I continue to compare Margar to Big Al, and still notice very little difference. These stinkin fitness "experts" MUST all be liars!
But I am determined! I work hard! Three more weeks go by, the sheets peeling off day after day, before I can muster the courage to stand next to Big Al again. Holy Myoplex! I SEE a difference! OK, not skinny, but less huge!!!
By the end of my one year journey, I envision that Margar is down to her lean dream, or somewhere near it. Margar is happy. Big Al – well he’s not so happy. :)
The lesson to be learned is that fat, like paper towels, comes off in sheets. When you are heavy, you are big around. And when you are big around,that fat is spread over a MUCH larger area – just like that outside towel sheet. The closer you get to the lean you, the more each lost pound of fat shows, because it is spread over a smaller area.
While the outside sheet may only cover 1 layer of the roll, the inside sheet may go around 4 times. That last sheet looks like it gives you 4 times the results of the first sheet, but in reality, the results are the same – your perception is just different! And you’ll never see the inside, if you aren’t patient while the outside is coming off!
I hope this theory inspires you as much as it inspired me.
Cheers!
Margaret (aka Margar)
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Meet My New Best Friend
Day 56
Say hello to my new best friend. I call him Sarge. He's demanding and cuts me no slack whatsoever.
I have worked and worked over the past several weeks to graduate from "I know you can do better than that" to "Nice Job".
Finally, today I reached the pinnacle of Wii Kudos... "GREAT WORKOUT" Oh and did I mention that I managed this feat on Advanced and NOT beginner? Yeah baby!
Isn't he the cutest little thing? I'm in love and I"m not ashamed to admit it. This fella rocks my world. I've also managed to unlock expert. I am clearly not ready for that one.
My new nemesis is my circuit workout. It's kicking my butt too. It's a circuit workout that goes immediately from one exercise to another without any rest in between. At the end of the circuit I rest for one minute and then repeat the circuit for a total of 4 circuits. The entire session works out to approximately 17 minutes. It doesn't sound like a long time, but if you add 30 minutes of cardio to the circuit, you've got a very thorough workout. If you are interested in giving this workout a shot, pick up the Fat Loss Issue of Oxygen Magazine. Your best bet is Barnes & Noble.
Remember tomorrw is TGIF!
Cheers!
Margaret
P.S. If you'd like to receive my blog posts via email, shoot me a quick message at margaretangell@yahoo.com, I'm happy to add you to my mailing list. Unfortunately, I can't seem to find a good "subscription" add on for this blog. :)
I have worked and worked over the past several weeks to graduate from "I know you can do better than that" to "Nice Job".
Finally, today I reached the pinnacle of Wii Kudos... "GREAT WORKOUT" Oh and did I mention that I managed this feat on Advanced and NOT beginner? Yeah baby!
Isn't he the cutest little thing? I'm in love and I"m not ashamed to admit it. This fella rocks my world. I've also managed to unlock expert. I am clearly not ready for that one.
My new nemesis is my circuit workout. It's kicking my butt too. It's a circuit workout that goes immediately from one exercise to another without any rest in between. At the end of the circuit I rest for one minute and then repeat the circuit for a total of 4 circuits. The entire session works out to approximately 17 minutes. It doesn't sound like a long time, but if you add 30 minutes of cardio to the circuit, you've got a very thorough workout. If you are interested in giving this workout a shot, pick up the Fat Loss Issue of Oxygen Magazine. Your best bet is Barnes & Noble.
Remember tomorrw is TGIF!
Cheers!
Margaret
P.S. If you'd like to receive my blog posts via email, shoot me a quick message at margaretangell@yahoo.com, I'm happy to add you to my mailing list. Unfortunately, I can't seem to find a good "subscription" add on for this blog. :)
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Dr. Feel Good
Day 55
Sometimes laughter really is the best medicine. I just got off the phone with one of my favorite people in the world. She always makes me smile and tonight was no different. That got me thinking about what it means to be truly nourished.
Not only are we nourished by the foods that we eat, the books that we read and the exercise we get, but we are also nourished by the company we keep. If we surround ourselves with toxic people and situations without relief, it eventually takes it toll. I don't even think I realized just how much I needed a good laugh until after I got off the phone with my friend Beth tonight. My intent was to brighten her day and let her know that I've been thinking about her. But, I got so much more in return.
I'm doing a number of things these days that contribute to my overall well-being. I'm eating well, I'm exercising and I'm learning new things everyday. But, I think that sometimes I forget to feed my soul. It's so easy for me to get stuck inside my own head. Thank God for the people who love me. I know I say it a lot. But, my support system is a very big part of my success. You all listen to me complain, laugh at my jokes, tell me I look great, encourage me to forge ahead and you are quick to cater to my nutritional needs. But most of all, you just make my heart sing.
Cheers!
Margaret
Sometimes laughter really is the best medicine. I just got off the phone with one of my favorite people in the world. She always makes me smile and tonight was no different. That got me thinking about what it means to be truly nourished.
Not only are we nourished by the foods that we eat, the books that we read and the exercise we get, but we are also nourished by the company we keep. If we surround ourselves with toxic people and situations without relief, it eventually takes it toll. I don't even think I realized just how much I needed a good laugh until after I got off the phone with my friend Beth tonight. My intent was to brighten her day and let her know that I've been thinking about her. But, I got so much more in return.
I'm doing a number of things these days that contribute to my overall well-being. I'm eating well, I'm exercising and I'm learning new things everyday. But, I think that sometimes I forget to feed my soul. It's so easy for me to get stuck inside my own head. Thank God for the people who love me. I know I say it a lot. But, my support system is a very big part of my success. You all listen to me complain, laugh at my jokes, tell me I look great, encourage me to forge ahead and you are quick to cater to my nutritional needs. But most of all, you just make my heart sing.
Cheers!
Margaret
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Workin 9 to 5
Day 54
6:00 am - hit snooze
6:15 am - hit snooze
6:30 am - hit snooze
6:45 am - hit snooze
7:00 am - nothing... nothing... nothing...
7:15 am - OH CRAP!
That's how it all began.
"Tumble outta bed and stumble to the kitchen. Pour myself a cup of ambition. Yawnin and stretchin and tryin to come to life. Jump in the shower and the blood starts pumpin. Out on the streets...The traffic starts jumpin. And folks like me on the job from 9 to 5 " - Dolly Parton
These lyrics are from the theme of the movie 9 to 5. My favorite scene in this movie is when Lily Tomlin "accidentally" puts rat poison in her boss' coffee. I could've used some rat poison today. I'm just sayin.
Things were going amazingly well considering my late start to the day. I was getting stuff done at work and I even managed to have a yummy lunch with my husband. It was all down hill from there. Let's just say I worked all afternoon on a project that I said last week we "shouldn't" do only to be told this afternoon that we should've done what I suggested last week. Really? Somebody bring me a Diet Coke and a Snickers! STAT!
No. I didn't succumb to the siren's call of the Snickers bar. I gritted my teeth and left the building as soon as possible. I stopped by the store and restocked on greek yogurt and picked up some fresh chicken for tonight's dinner which is cooking away in the oven right now.
Victory is mine.
Cheers!
Margaret
6:00 am - hit snooze
6:15 am - hit snooze
6:30 am - hit snooze
6:45 am - hit snooze
7:00 am - nothing... nothing... nothing...
7:15 am - OH CRAP!
That's how it all began.
"Tumble outta bed and stumble to the kitchen. Pour myself a cup of ambition. Yawnin and stretchin and tryin to come to life. Jump in the shower and the blood starts pumpin. Out on the streets...The traffic starts jumpin. And folks like me on the job from 9 to 5 " - Dolly Parton
These lyrics are from the theme of the movie 9 to 5. My favorite scene in this movie is when Lily Tomlin "accidentally" puts rat poison in her boss' coffee. I could've used some rat poison today. I'm just sayin.
Things were going amazingly well considering my late start to the day. I was getting stuff done at work and I even managed to have a yummy lunch with my husband. It was all down hill from there. Let's just say I worked all afternoon on a project that I said last week we "shouldn't" do only to be told this afternoon that we should've done what I suggested last week. Really? Somebody bring me a Diet Coke and a Snickers! STAT!
No. I didn't succumb to the siren's call of the Snickers bar. I gritted my teeth and left the building as soon as possible. I stopped by the store and restocked on greek yogurt and picked up some fresh chicken for tonight's dinner which is cooking away in the oven right now.
Victory is mine.
Cheers!
Margaret
Monday, February 22, 2010
Hell's Kitchen
Day 53
I decided that today would be a good day to try my hand at some Steel Cut oats. How hard could it be? Last night I made red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese icing from scratch for a co-workers birthday (No. I didn't eat them). This should be a walk in the partk right? These were the "5" minute steel cut oats, which, by the way, is a total misnomer.
Carefully I measured out the water, which had to be boiling first, and the oats into a bowl. I popped them in the microwave and set the timer for 3 minutes. Meanwhile I refilled my water bottle and took my morning meds. Less than one minute had passed and I decided to check on the status of my oats. To my horror they were violently boiling over. The interior of my microwave looked like an alien crime scene. Pressed for time, I was forced to clean up my mess and resort to regular quick cooking oats.
Instead of reading the directions top to bottom, I read them left to right and messed up my liquid to oat ratio. I realized my mistake before it went into the microwave and scooped out the extra oats. Finally, they were done. I added my blueberries, flaxseed, wheat germ, honey and walnuts. It was not the best bowl of oatmeal I'd ever made from a texture standpoint, but it would do for today. At this point I was pressed for time.
I choked down arguably the worst bowl of oatmeal I'd made in my entire life and ran upstairs to grab a quick shower. It's definitely Monday. I'll give the steel cut oats another try tomorrow. They will not beat me.
Cheers!
Margaret
I decided that today would be a good day to try my hand at some Steel Cut oats. How hard could it be? Last night I made red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese icing from scratch for a co-workers birthday (No. I didn't eat them). This should be a walk in the partk right? These were the "5" minute steel cut oats, which, by the way, is a total misnomer.
Carefully I measured out the water, which had to be boiling first, and the oats into a bowl. I popped them in the microwave and set the timer for 3 minutes. Meanwhile I refilled my water bottle and took my morning meds. Less than one minute had passed and I decided to check on the status of my oats. To my horror they were violently boiling over. The interior of my microwave looked like an alien crime scene. Pressed for time, I was forced to clean up my mess and resort to regular quick cooking oats.
Instead of reading the directions top to bottom, I read them left to right and messed up my liquid to oat ratio. I realized my mistake before it went into the microwave and scooped out the extra oats. Finally, they were done. I added my blueberries, flaxseed, wheat germ, honey and walnuts. It was not the best bowl of oatmeal I'd ever made from a texture standpoint, but it would do for today. At this point I was pressed for time.
I choked down arguably the worst bowl of oatmeal I'd made in my entire life and ran upstairs to grab a quick shower. It's definitely Monday. I'll give the steel cut oats another try tomorrow. They will not beat me.
Cheers!
Margaret
Sunday, February 21, 2010
New Beginnings
Dav 52
Tomorrow marks the beginning of my new strategy. I did all my shopping and meal planning today. I also planned tomorrow's workout as well. I'm good to go.
I'm much more optimistic tonight than I have been all week. There's roughly 4 weeks until our next trip and it will actually span across two weeks. So, I need to work hard between now and then. That week will be a planned "maintain" week.
For now, I've got to bust through this plateau. It's been messing with my head. The important thing is NOT to give up. I know from past experience that this is a tricky time, not just for me, but for a lot of people. It's easy to get that thought in your head of "if I work this hard and have nothing to show for it, what's the point?" Well, the point is it takes time. Hitting this plateau doesn't mean it's not working. It just means I have to switch things up a bit and be mindful.
Here's tomorrow's Meal Plan
Meal 1: Steel Cut Oats topped with a little honey, flaxseed, wheat germ, walnuts and blueberries.
Meal 2: Whey Protein Shake
Meal 3: Tuna in a Pita and carrots
Meal 4: Greek Yogurt and Cottage Cheese
Meal 5: Cajun Shrimp Stir fry
Meal 6: Grapes and String Cheese
Exercise:
Full Body Circuit Training (weights)
Wii Fit
Failure is not an option for me. I'll take the good with the bad and the the plateaus too. It's all part of the journey.
Cheers!
Margaret
Tomorrow marks the beginning of my new strategy. I did all my shopping and meal planning today. I also planned tomorrow's workout as well. I'm good to go.
I'm much more optimistic tonight than I have been all week. There's roughly 4 weeks until our next trip and it will actually span across two weeks. So, I need to work hard between now and then. That week will be a planned "maintain" week.
For now, I've got to bust through this plateau. It's been messing with my head. The important thing is NOT to give up. I know from past experience that this is a tricky time, not just for me, but for a lot of people. It's easy to get that thought in your head of "if I work this hard and have nothing to show for it, what's the point?" Well, the point is it takes time. Hitting this plateau doesn't mean it's not working. It just means I have to switch things up a bit and be mindful.
Here's tomorrow's Meal Plan
Meal 1: Steel Cut Oats topped with a little honey, flaxseed, wheat germ, walnuts and blueberries.
Meal 2: Whey Protein Shake
Meal 3: Tuna in a Pita and carrots
Meal 4: Greek Yogurt and Cottage Cheese
Meal 5: Cajun Shrimp Stir fry
Meal 6: Grapes and String Cheese
Exercise:
Full Body Circuit Training (weights)
Wii Fit
Failure is not an option for me. I'll take the good with the bad and the the plateaus too. It's all part of the journey.
Cheers!
Margaret
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Rethinking My Strategy
Day 51
I awoke today at 7:30 am with no alarm clock. WHAT!?! Who is this person. What have you done with Margaret. She doesn't wake up this early. Surely, my body has been invaded by aliens. Nope... it's the real Margaret. How do I know? Because I laid there til 9:45 out of spite. Then, I was grumpy for two hours after I got up because I was mad at myself.
I am making a promise to myself to stop doing that right now. I will get up when I'm ready regardless of what time it is. I can always take a nap later or go to bed early if I'm tired. I've been going to bed earlier which makes it easier for me to get up in the morning. Last night I went to bed at 12:30, which is early for me on a Friday. In fact, that used to be my weeknight bedtime. These are the things that go on inside my head. Perhaps you think I'm nuts. Perhaps I'm speaking your language. I don't know. But, I do feel it's important to be honest. If that makes me come off a little eccentric, then I'll just have to deal with it.
Our dream of getting a doughnut this morning was dashed by sleeping in and having to take our camper in for service before the camping season begins next month. Oh well. I wasn't all that jazzed about them anyway. But, it was 2 pm before I got anything to eat at all and I was good and grumpy by then. I've had a hamburger and fries today, a few Doritos and pizza is on its way as I type. Free day just doesn't seem worth it. By the time it gets here, I never know what I really want and I end up eating junk that I don't care about so... what's the point?
I'm thinking that I may need a change in strategy like allowing myself a certain number of free meals on the weekend. (NOT Free weekends!) I dunno.. I'm just thinking out loud. But, I'm certainly not happy with my progress over the past couple of weeks. Last week, I accept. It was planned. But, I just know something is off. This next week, I've decided not only to write down my planned meals, which I do daily. But, I'm also going to write down what I actually ate. And, I think it may be a good time to measure my food just to make sure I'm on target.
It's been seven weeks since I started this journey. I've had some success and I'm happy about that. But, it's important to re-evaluate every so often in order to avoid plateaus. I have gained and lost the same 3 pounds over the past 3 weeks. I can't live with that. I am determined to BUST through it this week. Wish me luck.
Cheers!
Margaret
I awoke today at 7:30 am with no alarm clock. WHAT!?! Who is this person. What have you done with Margaret. She doesn't wake up this early. Surely, my body has been invaded by aliens. Nope... it's the real Margaret. How do I know? Because I laid there til 9:45 out of spite. Then, I was grumpy for two hours after I got up because I was mad at myself.
I am making a promise to myself to stop doing that right now. I will get up when I'm ready regardless of what time it is. I can always take a nap later or go to bed early if I'm tired. I've been going to bed earlier which makes it easier for me to get up in the morning. Last night I went to bed at 12:30, which is early for me on a Friday. In fact, that used to be my weeknight bedtime. These are the things that go on inside my head. Perhaps you think I'm nuts. Perhaps I'm speaking your language. I don't know. But, I do feel it's important to be honest. If that makes me come off a little eccentric, then I'll just have to deal with it.
Our dream of getting a doughnut this morning was dashed by sleeping in and having to take our camper in for service before the camping season begins next month. Oh well. I wasn't all that jazzed about them anyway. But, it was 2 pm before I got anything to eat at all and I was good and grumpy by then. I've had a hamburger and fries today, a few Doritos and pizza is on its way as I type. Free day just doesn't seem worth it. By the time it gets here, I never know what I really want and I end up eating junk that I don't care about so... what's the point?
I'm thinking that I may need a change in strategy like allowing myself a certain number of free meals on the weekend. (NOT Free weekends!) I dunno.. I'm just thinking out loud. But, I'm certainly not happy with my progress over the past couple of weeks. Last week, I accept. It was planned. But, I just know something is off. This next week, I've decided not only to write down my planned meals, which I do daily. But, I'm also going to write down what I actually ate. And, I think it may be a good time to measure my food just to make sure I'm on target.
It's been seven weeks since I started this journey. I've had some success and I'm happy about that. But, it's important to re-evaluate every so often in order to avoid plateaus. I have gained and lost the same 3 pounds over the past 3 weeks. I can't live with that. I am determined to BUST through it this week. Wish me luck.
Cheers!
Margaret
The Big Five Oh!
Day 50
On the 50th day of this 365 day journey I had a crisis of faith. I woke up this morning, exercised, took a shower and cried. Don't ask me why. I don't really know other than I just felt defeated. As days go, this one did not start out on a good note. I've been dealing with some challenging issues both at work and at home this week. There were times at work today when I seriously felt like I was going to lose it. I was off my game from the get go.
Several members of my team had lunch together at Germantown Cafe. (If you live in Nashville and have never been, I highly recommend it.) I nearly had an accident on the way to the restaurant, which would have totally been my fault. And, I was so rattled by the time we got seated that all I could think was no meat today. I mindlessly ordered crab cakes which came served with mashed potatoes and green beans. Courtney, our waiter, walked away and I said "What did i just do? I don't need to be eating crab cakes!" My friends helped me get his attention and I changed my order to the Salmon club with no bacon or avocado and asparagus instead of fries.
By the time we were finished eating, I was in much better spirits. However, it could have been the two diet cokes. Our waiter was really good. He just kept bring me one when he saw my glass getting low. I was all hopped up on caffeine by the time we got back to the office. That is until my weekly marketing meeting. The stress of my week was really beginning to rear it's ugly head. I felt like my lips were moving, but no one was listening. All I kept thinking was "you just have to make it until 4:15, then you can leave for your massage"
I was finally able to get my point across and, by the end, we'd come to some resolution. After that, another one of the main challenges I'd been fighting all week was resolved as well. I ended my work week on a good note and headed to my massage appointment. I was so drained. One and a half hours with Craig and I was a new woman. I can't remember the last time I felt so relaxed. Ah... bliss... where have you been all week? I've missed you.
Our Friday evening was fairly low key... dinner and a movie. Shutter Island is a good flick in case you're interested. I'm off to get a good night's sleep so that I can enjoy my free day tomorrow. I'm planning a trip to Dunkin Doughnuts and a nice long walk on the trail and Indian Lake Village.
Thank God this week is over.
Cheers!
Margaret
On the 50th day of this 365 day journey I had a crisis of faith. I woke up this morning, exercised, took a shower and cried. Don't ask me why. I don't really know other than I just felt defeated. As days go, this one did not start out on a good note. I've been dealing with some challenging issues both at work and at home this week. There were times at work today when I seriously felt like I was going to lose it. I was off my game from the get go.
Several members of my team had lunch together at Germantown Cafe. (If you live in Nashville and have never been, I highly recommend it.) I nearly had an accident on the way to the restaurant, which would have totally been my fault. And, I was so rattled by the time we got seated that all I could think was no meat today. I mindlessly ordered crab cakes which came served with mashed potatoes and green beans. Courtney, our waiter, walked away and I said "What did i just do? I don't need to be eating crab cakes!" My friends helped me get his attention and I changed my order to the Salmon club with no bacon or avocado and asparagus instead of fries.
By the time we were finished eating, I was in much better spirits. However, it could have been the two diet cokes. Our waiter was really good. He just kept bring me one when he saw my glass getting low. I was all hopped up on caffeine by the time we got back to the office. That is until my weekly marketing meeting. The stress of my week was really beginning to rear it's ugly head. I felt like my lips were moving, but no one was listening. All I kept thinking was "you just have to make it until 4:15, then you can leave for your massage"
I was finally able to get my point across and, by the end, we'd come to some resolution. After that, another one of the main challenges I'd been fighting all week was resolved as well. I ended my work week on a good note and headed to my massage appointment. I was so drained. One and a half hours with Craig and I was a new woman. I can't remember the last time I felt so relaxed. Ah... bliss... where have you been all week? I've missed you.
Our Friday evening was fairly low key... dinner and a movie. Shutter Island is a good flick in case you're interested. I'm off to get a good night's sleep so that I can enjoy my free day tomorrow. I'm planning a trip to Dunkin Doughnuts and a nice long walk on the trail and Indian Lake Village.
Thank God this week is over.
Cheers!
Margaret
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Baggage
Day 49
"Every time I try to get out, they keep pullin' me back in!" - The Godfather
I swear I feel like my past mindset came and gave me a big ole bitch slap right in the face today.... In the FACE!! I really try to avoid negative situations whenever possible. Unfortunately, I couldn't run away today and I had to face the issues coming at me head on. There were a lot. I took them all in stride and maintained my composure through it all. But, I had an overwhelming urge to stuff my feelings with food.
All I can say is thank goodness there were no cinnamon buns to tempt me in the breakroom today. I might have inhaled them. Instead, I took my friend Jon's advice. (Deep Breaths and fight the urge!) He would be proud. I didn't succumb to my urges. I ate an apple and a piece of string cheese, which was my planned afternoon snack. It's hard to convey just how hard it was to avoid my old "safety net".
I couldn't really do anything about the challenges coming my way today. In the end, they all turned out ok. And, frankly, the outcome would have been the same whether I stuffed my feelings with food or not. Huge accomplishment. I'm ashamed that those feelings still hold some power over me. But, I'm proud that I've got the upper hand. I'm stronger than those feelings. Eventually, they will know better than to mess with me. Until then, I will continue to fight.
Another positive note for today is that I managed to get up again this morning to workout. That's three days in a row for those of you paying attention. Tomorrow, I go for number FOUR. Tomorrow night, I'm rewarding this week's successes with a 1.5 hour massage. I've earned it. And, I cannot wait.
Cheers!
Margaret
"Every time I try to get out, they keep pullin' me back in!" - The Godfather
I swear I feel like my past mindset came and gave me a big ole bitch slap right in the face today.... In the FACE!! I really try to avoid negative situations whenever possible. Unfortunately, I couldn't run away today and I had to face the issues coming at me head on. There were a lot. I took them all in stride and maintained my composure through it all. But, I had an overwhelming urge to stuff my feelings with food.
All I can say is thank goodness there were no cinnamon buns to tempt me in the breakroom today. I might have inhaled them. Instead, I took my friend Jon's advice. (Deep Breaths and fight the urge!) He would be proud. I didn't succumb to my urges. I ate an apple and a piece of string cheese, which was my planned afternoon snack. It's hard to convey just how hard it was to avoid my old "safety net".
I couldn't really do anything about the challenges coming my way today. In the end, they all turned out ok. And, frankly, the outcome would have been the same whether I stuffed my feelings with food or not. Huge accomplishment. I'm ashamed that those feelings still hold some power over me. But, I'm proud that I've got the upper hand. I'm stronger than those feelings. Eventually, they will know better than to mess with me. Until then, I will continue to fight.
Another positive note for today is that I managed to get up again this morning to workout. That's three days in a row for those of you paying attention. Tomorrow, I go for number FOUR. Tomorrow night, I'm rewarding this week's successes with a 1.5 hour massage. I've earned it. And, I cannot wait.
Cheers!
Margaret
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Sacrifice and Temptation
Day 48
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season. In this 40-day period that precedes Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, Christians are asked to contemplate his life and sacrifice, and practice self-sacrifice and compassion for others. In short, Lent is a time for prayer, fasting and good works.
What most non-Catholics know about Lent comes down to we eat fish on Fridays and we give stuff up. In simple terms, that does about sum it up. The purpose of abstaining from meat on Fridays is to help bring the faithful to a higher spiritual level by not concentrating on the material things of this world, but on the spiritual.
You all know that I've been pondering what to give up for Lent since all of the usual suspects are already gone thanks to my new healthy lifestyle. I've decided that in addition to giving up meat on Fridays, I will add meatless Mondays to my week as well. My good work will be to give blood.
Ok... now that this is out of the way I feel better. Finally!
This week is proving to be temptation heavy at work. Yesterday, there was birthday cake in the breakroom. Today, I was forced to endure Cinnamon Buns. Really? (Sorry about the quality of the pic. I took it with my cell phone.)
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season. In this 40-day period that precedes Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, Christians are asked to contemplate his life and sacrifice, and practice self-sacrifice and compassion for others. In short, Lent is a time for prayer, fasting and good works.
What most non-Catholics know about Lent comes down to we eat fish on Fridays and we give stuff up. In simple terms, that does about sum it up. The purpose of abstaining from meat on Fridays is to help bring the faithful to a higher spiritual level by not concentrating on the material things of this world, but on the spiritual.
You all know that I've been pondering what to give up for Lent since all of the usual suspects are already gone thanks to my new healthy lifestyle. I've decided that in addition to giving up meat on Fridays, I will add meatless Mondays to my week as well. My good work will be to give blood.
Ok... now that this is out of the way I feel better. Finally!
This week is proving to be temptation heavy at work. Yesterday, there was birthday cake in the breakroom. Today, I was forced to endure Cinnamon Buns. Really? (Sorry about the quality of the pic. I took it with my cell phone.)I seriously contemplated eating it on more than one occasion. But, I didn't. It was hard. Some days are just like that. Somebody is bound to bring a big ole pan of bacon to the office tomorrow just to torment me.
Tomorrow will mark three consecutive days of working out in the morning. I HATE getting up to do it. But, I ALWAYS feel better after. It is true that I have more energy throughout the day. And, I'm especially happy about it when I realize driving home from work that it's done and out of the way. One of my friends swears that eventually I'll turn into a morning person. I don't see it. But, she can dream.
Cheers!
Margaret
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
FAT Tuesday
Day 47
The scale let me know this morning that I had a good time this weekend. As if I didn’t already know that. Thanks you giant piece of crap. I really appreciate it… NOT!!
The tape measure on the other hand was much kinder to me. She rewarded my weekend exercise efforts with a little dip downward in the waist circumference area. We like her a lot. In fact, I think we may use her to hang that stupid scale out the window until it screams for mercy. On a serious note though, I’m going to test it with a free weight tonight to see how “true” it is. It gave me three different weights for three different attempts this morning. I didn’t like any of the answers.
I kept it honest this weekend and didn’t sneak out with my friend Tony McElrath’s scale. But, I still like it better than my own. His thinks I weigh less overall and it thought I weighed the same yesterday when I left as it did the day it got there. His scale is a back to basics tried and true model. It’s not some fancy digital model that “supposedly” measures your body fat AND your weight. Although, I will say I have no qualms with the fact that my scale does seem to think that I’ve dropped 4% body fat. But, as usual, I digress.
Today, it’s back to basics and the daily work grind. I’m happy to report that I begrudgingly got up and exercised this morning. It’s out of the way. You know that’s been an issue for me lately. I do have a bit more pep in my step. But, I’m afraid that if I hadn’t worked out this morning, I might have ended up comatose at my desk. I’ve definitely got the post race weekend blues and blahs. It’s a safe bet that I may be watching American Idol from the comfort of my covers tonight. I’m exhausted.
Tomorrow marks Ash Wednesday and the beginning of lent for me. I still have no idea what I’m going to give up. The usual suspects are already gone.
Diet Coke – gone (except on free day)
Fried Foods – gone (except on free day)
Processed Foods – gone (except on free day)
Meat – that’s just crazy talk
Beer – There are two races during lent, that’s just more crazy talk.
Instead of giving up some kind of food, I’m thinking that I will give up my time toward a good cause. I’ll have to ponder that one tonight. Feel free to let me know if you have any suggestions.
Cheers!
Margaret
Monday, February 15, 2010
Triumph
Day 46
We had the longest ride home from Ohio to Tennessee today. The roads were horrific between Columbus and Louisville. As I was driving (and my hubby was snoozing), I had time to ponder a number of things...
How long can I "hold it" before I have to hit the rest area again?
Why is it that people tend to only have two speeds... a slow crawl or bat out of hell?
What does a snow plow driver do when there's no snow?
If I pinch Tony's nostrils together, will this make him stop snoring?
Can I make it 63 miles to the next rest area since this one is closed?
How many days is it before I get to see my pals again? 33 in case you're wondering.
and... Triumph
Sometimes we can be so laser focused on the big picture that we fail to celebrate the little accomplishments along the way to that one big giant goal. Ten hours on the road will give you time to ponder such things.
As I mentioned in a previous post, I went sledding again this weekend. It was exactly 44 days since the last time I went sledding. That first time, I could barely make it back up the hill after my descent. That day I was proud of myself for having the courage to even try it. This time, I made it back up that hill 5 times and I practically skipped my way back to the car. The joy and pride I felt in that triumphant moment filled my heart. Later that same day I danced the night away instead of simply sitting on the sidelines watching everyone else have a good time. Another triumphant moment.
This morning we stopped to get gas on our way south. Inside the convenience store, I was faced with a myriad of pre-packaged, fat-laden, processed junk that could easily be consumed and called "breakfast". I walked the aisles of that store three times looking for something that I could actually eat. Thank goodness I had alternatives in the truck. I settled for a liter of water and a banana which I supplemented with some nuts in the car... not doughnuts, not a candy bar, not a sausage biscuit. Another triumphant moment.
I already miss my friends. But, I'm very happy to be home. It's back to reality tomorrow. I'm sure weights and treadmill have missed me. I wish I could say I've missed them. I'll work on that one.
Cheers!
Margaret
We had the longest ride home from Ohio to Tennessee today. The roads were horrific between Columbus and Louisville. As I was driving (and my hubby was snoozing), I had time to ponder a number of things...
How long can I "hold it" before I have to hit the rest area again?
Why is it that people tend to only have two speeds... a slow crawl or bat out of hell?
What does a snow plow driver do when there's no snow?
If I pinch Tony's nostrils together, will this make him stop snoring?
Can I make it 63 miles to the next rest area since this one is closed?
How many days is it before I get to see my pals again? 33 in case you're wondering.
and... Triumph
Sometimes we can be so laser focused on the big picture that we fail to celebrate the little accomplishments along the way to that one big giant goal. Ten hours on the road will give you time to ponder such things.
As I mentioned in a previous post, I went sledding again this weekend. It was exactly 44 days since the last time I went sledding. That first time, I could barely make it back up the hill after my descent. That day I was proud of myself for having the courage to even try it. This time, I made it back up that hill 5 times and I practically skipped my way back to the car. The joy and pride I felt in that triumphant moment filled my heart. Later that same day I danced the night away instead of simply sitting on the sidelines watching everyone else have a good time. Another triumphant moment.
This morning we stopped to get gas on our way south. Inside the convenience store, I was faced with a myriad of pre-packaged, fat-laden, processed junk that could easily be consumed and called "breakfast". I walked the aisles of that store three times looking for something that I could actually eat. Thank goodness I had alternatives in the truck. I settled for a liter of water and a banana which I supplemented with some nuts in the car... not doughnuts, not a candy bar, not a sausage biscuit. Another triumphant moment.
I already miss my friends. But, I'm very happy to be home. It's back to reality tomorrow. I'm sure weights and treadmill have missed me. I wish I could say I've missed them. I'll work on that one.
Cheers!
Margaret
Sunday, February 14, 2010
The Aftermath
Day 45
We capped off last night's murder mystery dinner experience at Faces bar in Newton Falls, OH. It was a fun-filled night of dancing and revelry and my legs and knees definitely know I got my groove on. My arms, back, and legs are also keenly aware that I went sledding yesterday as well.
I'm sure a bunch of 30 years olds (and a couple of 40 year olds) out on the dance floor was just the entertainment the residents of Newton Falls have been waiting their whole lives to see. We're legends in our own minds! Some of us whimped out early while others hung out with the young kids til 1 am. It's nice to have the stamina for that kind of thing.
Today has also been another awesome day in the great white north. The Daytona 500 party we attended was a blast. Dale Jr. had a 2nd place finish. And, my Fantasy Racing team, Angry Princess Racing is NUMBER ONE in the points her first week out of the gate. Not too shabby.
I have indulged quite a bit this weekend and that's ok. We'll see how I fare on the scale Tuesday. Tomorrow we begin the long trek south. I'm not looking forward to the drive. It makes me tired just thinking about it. Plus, I hate the idea of leaving all my friends behind. Lucky for me, I'll get to see them all again next month.
We'll see how I fare on the scale come Tuesday. I feel like I did ok. Positives include: plenty of sleep and exercise. Negatives include: party food and not enough water. I'll need to work on for the next race weekend. All in all, I'm at peace with the way I handled the weekend and prepared to handle the consequences no matter what they might be. It was worth it. Tomorrow, it's back to reality.
Cheers!
Margaret
We capped off last night's murder mystery dinner experience at Faces bar in Newton Falls, OH. It was a fun-filled night of dancing and revelry and my legs and knees definitely know I got my groove on. My arms, back, and legs are also keenly aware that I went sledding yesterday as well.
I'm sure a bunch of 30 years olds (and a couple of 40 year olds) out on the dance floor was just the entertainment the residents of Newton Falls have been waiting their whole lives to see. We're legends in our own minds! Some of us whimped out early while others hung out with the young kids til 1 am. It's nice to have the stamina for that kind of thing.
Today has also been another awesome day in the great white north. The Daytona 500 party we attended was a blast. Dale Jr. had a 2nd place finish. And, my Fantasy Racing team, Angry Princess Racing is NUMBER ONE in the points her first week out of the gate. Not too shabby.
I have indulged quite a bit this weekend and that's ok. We'll see how I fare on the scale Tuesday. Tomorrow we begin the long trek south. I'm not looking forward to the drive. It makes me tired just thinking about it. Plus, I hate the idea of leaving all my friends behind. Lucky for me, I'll get to see them all again next month.
We'll see how I fare on the scale come Tuesday. I feel like I did ok. Positives include: plenty of sleep and exercise. Negatives include: party food and not enough water. I'll need to work on for the next race weekend. All in all, I'm at peace with the way I handled the weekend and prepared to handle the consequences no matter what they might be. It was worth it. Tomorrow, it's back to reality.
Cheers!
Margaret
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Plundering Mount Punderson
Day 44
Our crew went to Punderson State Park for a little sledding action today. It was a LOT bumpier than my original run in January, but it was still a blast. I wore the same clothes as my first foray into the frozen tundra of the great white north. I'm also happy (and a bit disturbed) to report that I almost lost my pants on my first run. Let me just say that snow down your underwear is not like the sensation of eating a York Peppermint Patty.
Note to self: buy some smaller pants! This was most definitely NOT an issue my first time out.
Another big difference between this and my previous adventure was my ability to trek up that hill. Last time, I was wheezing my way back up it and taking a 15 minute break between each sled run. Today, it was more like 5 minutes between runs.
We did have a couple of near misses in the injury department. Skully (my husband) rattled his bones and is complaining of a bruised Coccyx. Andy may or may not need shoulder replacement surgery after ditching his ride in the name of saving some old man who was too slow to get out of the way. Tony Mac (former Steeler great Franco Harris as we like to call him) came back virtually unscathed with me. At this point, my only complaints include a mild headache and some shin pain.
On tap for tonight is a Murder Mystery dinner. My character is called Tiny Bubbles. Not really sure how I feel about that one as most people I've come across with the nickname Tiny are obese.
The desription of my character is innocent and pure with a sharp wit. My costume suggestions were polka dot shirt and skirt with bows in my hair. I have to tell you that I won't be sporting any bows tonight. And, I'll have to reach way back in my time machine to channel innocent characteristics. But, I'll give it a shot.
My Mount Punderson work out is out of the way and it's all about good friends and good times tonight.
Tomorrow, it's the Daytona 500 and it's gonna be a fun day too. Life is good when you can actually move around for a change.
Cheers!
Margaret
Our crew went to Punderson State Park for a little sledding action today. It was a LOT bumpier than my original run in January, but it was still a blast. I wore the same clothes as my first foray into the frozen tundra of the great white north. I'm also happy (and a bit disturbed) to report that I almost lost my pants on my first run. Let me just say that snow down your underwear is not like the sensation of eating a York Peppermint Patty.
Note to self: buy some smaller pants! This was most definitely NOT an issue my first time out.
But, it was more about catching my breath from the beating I took going that the bumpy slopes. I caught some serious air on a couple of runs, one of which slammed me so hard that my hat popped off. But, unlike my Partners in Crime, I held on and didn't lose my sled.
We did have a couple of near misses in the injury department. Skully (my husband) rattled his bones and is complaining of a bruised Coccyx. Andy may or may not need shoulder replacement surgery after ditching his ride in the name of saving some old man who was too slow to get out of the way. Tony Mac (former Steeler great Franco Harris as we like to call him) came back virtually unscathed with me. At this point, my only complaints include a mild headache and some shin pain.
The desription of my character is innocent and pure with a sharp wit. My costume suggestions were polka dot shirt and skirt with bows in my hair. I have to tell you that I won't be sporting any bows tonight. And, I'll have to reach way back in my time machine to channel innocent characteristics. But, I'll give it a shot.
My Mount Punderson work out is out of the way and it's all about good friends and good times tonight.
Tomorrow, it's the Daytona 500 and it's gonna be a fun day too. Life is good when you can actually move around for a change.
Cheers!
Margaret
Friday, February 12, 2010
Mi Wii Fit es su Wii Fit
Day 43
We brought the Wii Fit to Ohio so that I could keep up with my exercise and our friends could try it out before buying one for themselves. I got my Wii Fit groove on this morning complete with a live audience. I was surrounded by people who seemed to think the best entertainment option available was watching me spar with my favorite cartoon punching bag character. Seriously people wasn't there an icicle outside that you could watch melt or something?
I couldn't seem to get that cantankerous booger to give me my props and say "nice job" to save my life. He just kept saying "I know you can do better than that. Come back and let's try again tomorrow." Uh... Dude... I thought I was gonna hurl in a bucket, I'm pretty sure that was the best I could summon. Whatever! I'm a glutton for punishment so it's a safe bet that I'll be back. And, don't even get me started on the obstacle course. It does NOT calculate how long your attempting the game only how long you actually "successfully" play the game. It credited me 3 minutes. It took me every bit of 8 to achieve success. I'm just sayin. That thing is my new nemesis.
I love my Ohio Peeps. They're awesome. But, I REALLY love their scale. I'm seriously considering packing them up in my bag and taking them home with me. I was extremely happy with the fact that it thinks I weigh about 8 lbs less than my home scale. Surely they won't mind. Perhaps if I just sent them back my home scale in the mail, they would forgive my thievery...
Stay tuned as my evil plot to steal my friend's scales unfolds. Of course, they read my blog so I'm thwarted already. Bummer.
Happy Friday to all!
Cheers!
Margaret
We brought the Wii Fit to Ohio so that I could keep up with my exercise and our friends could try it out before buying one for themselves. I got my Wii Fit groove on this morning complete with a live audience. I was surrounded by people who seemed to think the best entertainment option available was watching me spar with my favorite cartoon punching bag character. Seriously people wasn't there an icicle outside that you could watch melt or something?
I couldn't seem to get that cantankerous booger to give me my props and say "nice job" to save my life. He just kept saying "I know you can do better than that. Come back and let's try again tomorrow." Uh... Dude... I thought I was gonna hurl in a bucket, I'm pretty sure that was the best I could summon. Whatever! I'm a glutton for punishment so it's a safe bet that I'll be back. And, don't even get me started on the obstacle course. It does NOT calculate how long your attempting the game only how long you actually "successfully" play the game. It credited me 3 minutes. It took me every bit of 8 to achieve success. I'm just sayin. That thing is my new nemesis.
I love my Ohio Peeps. They're awesome. But, I REALLY love their scale. I'm seriously considering packing them up in my bag and taking them home with me. I was extremely happy with the fact that it thinks I weigh about 8 lbs less than my home scale. Surely they won't mind. Perhaps if I just sent them back my home scale in the mail, they would forgive my thievery...
Stay tuned as my evil plot to steal my friend's scales unfolds. Of course, they read my blog so I'm thwarted already. Bummer.
Happy Friday to all!
Cheers!
Margaret
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Indulgence is NOT a bad thing
Day 42
On the road again.... It was a long day of traveling. We started out making great time. But, then we hit Cinci and it all went downhill from there. We finally arrived at our destination 2 hours later than anticipated. No worries though. All in all it wasn't a bad trip. Meals were spot on.
The McElrath/Shimko welcoming committee made us feel right at home from the get/go. We were greeted with 97% lean ground beef burgers and a cold brewski (yes... I still enjoy beer. I just plan for it.). Having said that, the purpose of tonight's post is to remember that it's ok to enjoy the occasional indulgence. I've planned for this and I don't feel guilty about tossing back a few brews with my friends. However, I do find that I'm a light weight these days. :)
Why is it that our natural tendency is to feel guilty whenever we indulge? For me, I think it's the fact that in the past every day was an indulgence. But, that's not how I roll anymore. This weekend is the exception, not the rule.
Me and the scale made a deal before I left. I've lost the 3 lbs that I gained back from what I lost the week before plus .5 more this week putting me at 238. Our deal is that I come back on Monday weighing the same as when I left. If the scale knows what's good for it, it'll cooperate. OR ELSE!
We've got some fun activities planned for the weekend. There will be some Wii fit, some sledding and some bowling going on around here.When we were here for New Year's Eve weekend, I was worried that I might not be able to sled. I was terrified that I was too fat or it would be too hard. This time... just 42 days later... I cannot wait!!! I'm not afraid at all. In fact, I can't wait to hit the hill full speed.
My Ohio family is in rare form tonight so I have to go and listen to all the stories. Take care. Until tomorrow.
Cheers!
Margaret
On the road again.... It was a long day of traveling. We started out making great time. But, then we hit Cinci and it all went downhill from there. We finally arrived at our destination 2 hours later than anticipated. No worries though. All in all it wasn't a bad trip. Meals were spot on.
The McElrath/Shimko welcoming committee made us feel right at home from the get/go. We were greeted with 97% lean ground beef burgers and a cold brewski (yes... I still enjoy beer. I just plan for it.). Having said that, the purpose of tonight's post is to remember that it's ok to enjoy the occasional indulgence. I've planned for this and I don't feel guilty about tossing back a few brews with my friends. However, I do find that I'm a light weight these days. :)
Why is it that our natural tendency is to feel guilty whenever we indulge? For me, I think it's the fact that in the past every day was an indulgence. But, that's not how I roll anymore. This weekend is the exception, not the rule.
Me and the scale made a deal before I left. I've lost the 3 lbs that I gained back from what I lost the week before plus .5 more this week putting me at 238. Our deal is that I come back on Monday weighing the same as when I left. If the scale knows what's good for it, it'll cooperate. OR ELSE!
We've got some fun activities planned for the weekend. There will be some Wii fit, some sledding and some bowling going on around here.When we were here for New Year's Eve weekend, I was worried that I might not be able to sled. I was terrified that I was too fat or it would be too hard. This time... just 42 days later... I cannot wait!!! I'm not afraid at all. In fact, I can't wait to hit the hill full speed.
My Ohio family is in rare form tonight so I have to go and listen to all the stories. Take care. Until tomorrow.
Cheers!
Margaret
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Strategic Planning
Day 41
I have come to the realization that I'm going to have to rethink my exercise strategy. I may not be a morning person. But, life sure does have a way of sidetracking you as the day progresses. The only way I can "guarantee" that the exercise will get done is to do it in the morning.
Tonight, I have two choices. I can exercise at 11 pm and risk not being able to fall asleep. OR, I can skip it and get a decent night sleep before my long road trip tomorrow. I'm leaning toward good night sleep and early morning exercise before we hit the road.
It's shaping up to be a fun-filled weekend. My friends are so awesome that one of them called me from the grocery store tonight to make sure I was covered on the nutrition front. How cool is that? He's not the only friend to do this for me. We're visiting other friends in Virginia next month. And, they are already "planning" menus for me. It's so amazing to have this kind of support. I'm like H&R Block....I've got people. Have you got people? My people deserve a round of applause!
Our bags are packed. The car is loaded. Meals and snacks for the road are planned and packed. All that's left is to get a little sleep.
Cheers!
Margaret
I have come to the realization that I'm going to have to rethink my exercise strategy. I may not be a morning person. But, life sure does have a way of sidetracking you as the day progresses. The only way I can "guarantee" that the exercise will get done is to do it in the morning.
Tonight, I have two choices. I can exercise at 11 pm and risk not being able to fall asleep. OR, I can skip it and get a decent night sleep before my long road trip tomorrow. I'm leaning toward good night sleep and early morning exercise before we hit the road.
It's shaping up to be a fun-filled weekend. My friends are so awesome that one of them called me from the grocery store tonight to make sure I was covered on the nutrition front. How cool is that? He's not the only friend to do this for me. We're visiting other friends in Virginia next month. And, they are already "planning" menus for me. It's so amazing to have this kind of support. I'm like H&R Block....I've got people. Have you got people? My people deserve a round of applause!
Our bags are packed. The car is loaded. Meals and snacks for the road are planned and packed. All that's left is to get a little sleep.
Cheers!
Margaret
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Simple Doesn't Always Equal Easy
Day 40
I was doing a little online reading today and came across an article which said “you can only rise as high as your lowest level habit”. I find the simple truth in this statement to be somewhat profound.
My ‘lowest level habit’ was a negative mindset. My second ‘lowest level habit’ was using food to sooth my negative mindset. Food was my drug of choice. Breaking free from the chains of these unhealthy behaviors has enabled me to take a giant leap forward. I had to take an extremely honest look at myself. As Dr. Phil would say “I had to get REAL about my life.”
Reality for me was realizing that I wasn’t going to find a sense of peace at the bottom of a box of Cheese Nips. My anger wasn’t going to be quelled by a pound of bacon. My anxiety wasn’t going to be eased in a bowl of butter with a side of popcorn. You know what does help all of those things though? Exercise and a good night’s sleep. I’m serious. I am finding that if I don’t get those things, it affects my ability to manage stress, which leads to negative thoughts, which leads to the urge to eat junk.
Yesterday, I didn’t exercise and I ate a little too much last night. Why? Because I barely got any sleep the night before. It’s like playing a game of Jenga. Remove the wrong block and you’re toast. Last night, I slept well. Today, I’m eating well. Tonight, I’ll be exercising when I get home. I know there are several people reading my posts who are struggling with their weight too.
It’s hard to believe that the solution is this simple. It really is simple. It’s just not always easy. But, the hard work really does pay off. Here's proof.
Cheers!
Margaret
I was doing a little online reading today and came across an article which said “you can only rise as high as your lowest level habit”. I find the simple truth in this statement to be somewhat profound.
My ‘lowest level habit’ was a negative mindset. My second ‘lowest level habit’ was using food to sooth my negative mindset. Food was my drug of choice. Breaking free from the chains of these unhealthy behaviors has enabled me to take a giant leap forward. I had to take an extremely honest look at myself. As Dr. Phil would say “I had to get REAL about my life.”
Reality for me was realizing that I wasn’t going to find a sense of peace at the bottom of a box of Cheese Nips. My anger wasn’t going to be quelled by a pound of bacon. My anxiety wasn’t going to be eased in a bowl of butter with a side of popcorn. You know what does help all of those things though? Exercise and a good night’s sleep. I’m serious. I am finding that if I don’t get those things, it affects my ability to manage stress, which leads to negative thoughts, which leads to the urge to eat junk.
Yesterday, I didn’t exercise and I ate a little too much last night. Why? Because I barely got any sleep the night before. It’s like playing a game of Jenga. Remove the wrong block and you’re toast. Last night, I slept well. Today, I’m eating well. Tonight, I’ll be exercising when I get home. I know there are several people reading my posts who are struggling with their weight too.
It’s hard to believe that the solution is this simple. It really is simple. It’s just not always easy. But, the hard work really does pay off. Here's proof.
Cheers!
Margaret
Monday, February 8, 2010
I Killed the Scale
Day 39
I must confess that the scale is dead... metaphorically speaking anyway. That pain in the butt piece of scrap metal really ticked me off today. Last week it said I lost 3 lbs. This week, it said I gained it back. I call BS on that.
Yes. I missed two workouts last week. But, I didn't change a single thing about my eating. There's no reason I should have gained weight. Sometimes it sucks to be a girl. I'm just sayin. That said, I saw my hairdresser tonight and she asked how much I'd lost. I told her and she said "you look like you've lost more." That was music to my ears and just what I needed to stop dwelling on my hate/hate relationship with the scale.
This is a critical time. It's a three day work week for me and I'll be traveling this weekend. Planning is key. Now is no time to lose focus. I've put my sledgehammer back in the closet and my battle with the scale behind me.
Tomorrow will be a good day!
Cheers!
Margaret
I must confess that the scale is dead... metaphorically speaking anyway. That pain in the butt piece of scrap metal really ticked me off today. Last week it said I lost 3 lbs. This week, it said I gained it back. I call BS on that.
Yes. I missed two workouts last week. But, I didn't change a single thing about my eating. There's no reason I should have gained weight. Sometimes it sucks to be a girl. I'm just sayin. That said, I saw my hairdresser tonight and she asked how much I'd lost. I told her and she said "you look like you've lost more." That was music to my ears and just what I needed to stop dwelling on my hate/hate relationship with the scale.
This is a critical time. It's a three day work week for me and I'll be traveling this weekend. Planning is key. Now is no time to lose focus. I've put my sledgehammer back in the closet and my battle with the scale behind me.
Tomorrow will be a good day!
Cheers!
Margaret
Why I do this
Day 38
Super Bowl Sunday is a big deal at my house. We have a big party every year. If my math is correct I believe this is our 19th annual soiree.
For the most part, the food is always the same. I make Chili. This year, it was made with 97% lean ground beef and I'm sure no one noticed, which is a good thing.
I am lucky in that I have lot of people in my life who love me and are supporting me in my efforts to get healthy. This post is all about them. (at least the ones that were here today.)
These are my girls Gina (left) and Lori (right). They keep me honest. They'll listen to my crap. But, they won't hesitate to call me on my crap either.
My sisters in law (from left) Robin, Me, Kelly, Julie. Beautiful women, who all know the joys of being married to Angell men. They are the best you could ask for.
My niece Maddie. Next best thing to having a daughter of my own.
Last, but certainly not least. Tony, the love of my life. He's made a point this weekend to make sure that I've made time to exercise and eat when I'm supposed to.
These are just a few of the people who make this journey possible. I am secure in the knowledge that if I stayed this weight forever they would still love me. But, because they love me, I have the strength to become who I want to be for me.
Thank you!
Cheers!
Margaret
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Consequences and Repercussions
Day 37
For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
- Sir Isaac Newton
Translation: Work Out too hard and YOU WILL pay for it.
- Margaret Angell
Holy Crap! My upper body is killing me. Oh how I love the feel of pumping iron. Oh how I hate the next day. Jeez Louise! It hurt to wash my hair this morning. I can't help but laugh at myself after yesterday's post going on and on about how I was gonna PUMP you UP. Suddently, cardio is not looking all that terrible today.
I've got a bone to pick with Sir Isaac. I don't think his laws apply to nutrition at all. They're probably not intended to either but I need something to write about, so cut me some slack here and deal with it.
How is it that it is practically a certainty that one not so great day of eating will show up on the scale yet days and days of exercising and eating well won't yield squat? What is up with that? I can look at a piece of cheesecake sideways and BOOM it'll plaster itself on my ass. That is not an equal reaction in my book.
We may not become fat overnight, but it happens a lot faster than getting thin ever will. It takes about two minutes to eat a Snickers Bar (271 calories and 13.5 grams of fat). It takes about 48.5 minutes to walk off that Snickers. That is not a fair exchange. Think about the last time you went on vacation. One could easily gain 3-5 lbs eating and drinking for a week at an all inclusive resort. But, how long do you think you'd have to sacrifice and work for that one week of pleasure? At least two, probably three.
The same goes for exercise. If you stop exercising for two weeks and then come back to it, you will find that you've have lost both strength and endurance. The upside is that it won't take you as long to build back up to your previous condition as it did the first time. Stop for two years and you're back to square one. I know this to be a fact in my own exercise life.
I'll try to remember all of this good knowledge tomorrow when I'm surrounded by chips, dips, pigs in a blanket, cheese, crackers, veggies, My famous chili, Gina's famous brownies and beer. It is free day after all. Sampling is ok... bingefest 2010 is not!
There are always consequences and repercussions to the stupid (and smart) things we do in life.
Cheers!
Margaret
For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
- Sir Isaac Newton
Translation: Work Out too hard and YOU WILL pay for it.
- Margaret Angell
Holy Crap! My upper body is killing me. Oh how I love the feel of pumping iron. Oh how I hate the next day. Jeez Louise! It hurt to wash my hair this morning. I can't help but laugh at myself after yesterday's post going on and on about how I was gonna PUMP you UP. Suddently, cardio is not looking all that terrible today.
I've got a bone to pick with Sir Isaac. I don't think his laws apply to nutrition at all. They're probably not intended to either but I need something to write about, so cut me some slack here and deal with it.
How is it that it is practically a certainty that one not so great day of eating will show up on the scale yet days and days of exercising and eating well won't yield squat? What is up with that? I can look at a piece of cheesecake sideways and BOOM it'll plaster itself on my ass. That is not an equal reaction in my book.
We may not become fat overnight, but it happens a lot faster than getting thin ever will. It takes about two minutes to eat a Snickers Bar (271 calories and 13.5 grams of fat). It takes about 48.5 minutes to walk off that Snickers. That is not a fair exchange. Think about the last time you went on vacation. One could easily gain 3-5 lbs eating and drinking for a week at an all inclusive resort. But, how long do you think you'd have to sacrifice and work for that one week of pleasure? At least two, probably three.
The same goes for exercise. If you stop exercising for two weeks and then come back to it, you will find that you've have lost both strength and endurance. The upside is that it won't take you as long to build back up to your previous condition as it did the first time. Stop for two years and you're back to square one. I know this to be a fact in my own exercise life.
I'll try to remember all of this good knowledge tomorrow when I'm surrounded by chips, dips, pigs in a blanket, cheese, crackers, veggies, My famous chili, Gina's famous brownies and beer. It is free day after all. Sampling is ok... bingefest 2010 is not!
There are always consequences and repercussions to the stupid (and smart) things we do in life.
Cheers!
Margaret
Friday, February 5, 2010
I'm Here to PUMP... You UP!
Day 36
Like Hans and Frans from Saturday Night Live, I'm here to Pump... You Up! I may have a mild disdain for cardio, but I absolutely Love Pumping Iron. Movies portraying strong women like G.I. Jane really motivate me. I've probably seen that movie 50 times. Demi Moore really kicks some major butt. Viggo Mortensen is easy on the eyes too. But, that's a different post.
It could be said that I'm a "lover not a fighter" and to some degree that would be true despite occasional evidence to the contrary. Born on the cusp of Leo and Cancer, I'm a bit of a split personality. I possess characateristics of both. Leo's tend to be strong-willed and bossy while Cancerians tend to be loving and nuturing. It is true, I am all of those things. In simpler terms, what that means is if you cross me I'll take you out. Then, I'll go cry about it. But, I digress.
Lifting weights makes me feel strong, healthy and alive. It must be the endorphins. It's taken me a few weeks to get back into the swing of it after a couple of years away from consistently exercising. I'm definitely NOT as strong as I once was. There was a time when I could easily bench 95 lbs with a max of 110 lbs. At this point, I find 75 lbs a challenge. 85 lbs would probably be my max. But, I'll get there.
I find myself asking "if you loved it so much, then why did you stop?" I don't know the answer to that question. Sometimes when you dig yourself so deep into a hole, it's hard to imagine ever being able to climb out of it. But, it can be done. Every single rep brings me one baby step closer to the strong, vibrant healthy woman I want to be on the outside. I'm already that woman on the inside.
Cardio? That's another story. Loathe it. But, I'm trying to learn to love it. It's gonna take a while :)
Cheers!
Margaret
Like Hans and Frans from Saturday Night Live, I'm here to Pump... You Up! I may have a mild disdain for cardio, but I absolutely Love Pumping Iron. Movies portraying strong women like G.I. Jane really motivate me. I've probably seen that movie 50 times. Demi Moore really kicks some major butt. Viggo Mortensen is easy on the eyes too. But, that's a different post.
It could be said that I'm a "lover not a fighter" and to some degree that would be true despite occasional evidence to the contrary. Born on the cusp of Leo and Cancer, I'm a bit of a split personality. I possess characateristics of both. Leo's tend to be strong-willed and bossy while Cancerians tend to be loving and nuturing. It is true, I am all of those things. In simpler terms, what that means is if you cross me I'll take you out. Then, I'll go cry about it. But, I digress.
Lifting weights makes me feel strong, healthy and alive. It must be the endorphins. It's taken me a few weeks to get back into the swing of it after a couple of years away from consistently exercising. I'm definitely NOT as strong as I once was. There was a time when I could easily bench 95 lbs with a max of 110 lbs. At this point, I find 75 lbs a challenge. 85 lbs would probably be my max. But, I'll get there.
I find myself asking "if you loved it so much, then why did you stop?" I don't know the answer to that question. Sometimes when you dig yourself so deep into a hole, it's hard to imagine ever being able to climb out of it. But, it can be done. Every single rep brings me one baby step closer to the strong, vibrant healthy woman I want to be on the outside. I'm already that woman on the inside.
Cardio? That's another story. Loathe it. But, I'm trying to learn to love it. It's gonna take a while :)
Cheers!
Margaret
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Hor(ror)mones
Day 35,
Ever have one of those Eureka! moments when you realize something that's been staring you in the face the entire time? I had one of those today. I have been feeling a bit subpar all week. My back has been hurting. I've been emotional. I've been tired. And, I've been retaining water. Hmmm... I wonder what condition might cause these symptoms.
I'm thinking... thinking... thinking...
Hello? It's Hormones! Or, as I like to say Hor(ror)mones.
Knowing what the problem is doesn't really make it go away. Even so, it sure made it a lot easier to laugh at my irrational moments today. In the short term, I'll deal as best I can. By the time Super Bowl Sunday rolls around I'll be back to normal. Just in time to enjoy some free day fun!
Cheers!
Margaret
Ever have one of those Eureka! moments when you realize something that's been staring you in the face the entire time? I had one of those today. I have been feeling a bit subpar all week. My back has been hurting. I've been emotional. I've been tired. And, I've been retaining water. Hmmm... I wonder what condition might cause these symptoms.
I'm thinking... thinking... thinking...
Hello? It's Hormones! Or, as I like to say Hor(ror)mones.
Knowing what the problem is doesn't really make it go away. Even so, it sure made it a lot easier to laugh at my irrational moments today. In the short term, I'll deal as best I can. By the time Super Bowl Sunday rolls around I'll be back to normal. Just in time to enjoy some free day fun!
Cheers!
Margaret
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Whatever it Takes
Day 34
Some days I just wake up and wish I could be like everyone else. Planning meals and workouts and constantly thinking about what it takes to become a healthier version of myself is a lot of work. And, while I work very hard to make sure that it doesn't take over my life, occasionally, it's just overwhelming.
I used to get up in the morning and never give a single thought to what I was going to eat that day. If I felt like eating a pack of doughnuts, I ate them. If I wanted a burger and fries for lunch... done. Tacos for dinner? You bet. Cheesecake? go for it. Exercise? FUGHEDABOUTIT
That's not me anymore. Now, I have to plan what I'm going to eat either the night before or before I walk out the door in the morning. If I don't get up exercise in the morning, it has to be done at some point after I get home from work and before I go to bed. Most days this is not a problem. Other days, it's just a big pain in the butt.
Today, is one of those days. I almost feel resentful about the fact that I "have" to be so "mindful". There was seriously a part of me that considered eating some crap just out of spite. Fear not... I didn't
I had to dig deep to stay on track today. While I did fare well in the food area, I admit that I skipped my workout. Honestly, I went upstairs as soon as I got home and laid down to take a nap because I was alone and afraid that if I stayed anywhere near the kitchen I'd succumb to Tony's shelf of goodies.
My nap made me feel a lot better and I'm definitely more in control this evening. I'm less "resentful". Nobody said this was going to be easy. And, it's not. But, I will succeed.
Cheers!
Margaret
Some days I just wake up and wish I could be like everyone else. Planning meals and workouts and constantly thinking about what it takes to become a healthier version of myself is a lot of work. And, while I work very hard to make sure that it doesn't take over my life, occasionally, it's just overwhelming.
I used to get up in the morning and never give a single thought to what I was going to eat that day. If I felt like eating a pack of doughnuts, I ate them. If I wanted a burger and fries for lunch... done. Tacos for dinner? You bet. Cheesecake? go for it. Exercise? FUGHEDABOUTIT
That's not me anymore. Now, I have to plan what I'm going to eat either the night before or before I walk out the door in the morning. If I don't get up exercise in the morning, it has to be done at some point after I get home from work and before I go to bed. Most days this is not a problem. Other days, it's just a big pain in the butt.
Today, is one of those days. I almost feel resentful about the fact that I "have" to be so "mindful". There was seriously a part of me that considered eating some crap just out of spite. Fear not... I didn't
I had to dig deep to stay on track today. While I did fare well in the food area, I admit that I skipped my workout. Honestly, I went upstairs as soon as I got home and laid down to take a nap because I was alone and afraid that if I stayed anywhere near the kitchen I'd succumb to Tony's shelf of goodies.
My nap made me feel a lot better and I'm definitely more in control this evening. I'm less "resentful". Nobody said this was going to be easy. And, it's not. But, I will succeed.
Cheers!
Margaret
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Doom! Despair! and Agony!
Day 33
There's an old song that goes "Doom, despair, and agony on me. If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all. Doom, Despair and Agony on me."
I have been working out religiously six days a week for about 5 weeks now. For the most part it's been great. I've been getting stronger by the day. But, about a week ago, I started feeling pain in my left hip off and on. Last night... BAZINGA...it hit me like a brick. I was already super sore from a hard core upper body work out the day before. But, this was beyond just sore. It hurt.
Sidelined. Boo!
I spent today being a bit afraid and bummed out. I don't want to give myself an "out". Despite the fact that this is day 33, it's still all very new. Then, I thought about how I could get through this challenging day without letting myself down and without causing further injury.
Yes. My hip hurts. But, not all the time. Only when I do certain movements like lunges, squats and that stupid Wii Hula Hoop game. (I'm almost positive the freakin Hula hoop did it to me). It's a cardio day. I can do that right? So, I nixed the Hula Hoop game and went for it.
I'm still in some pain tonight. But, I made it through cardio unscathed. I'm dealing with the sciatic pain and keeping my nutrition in check. That's the best I can do. and, that's enough. Screw Doom... despair and agony. They can go bother someone else. I'm busy.
Cheers!
Margaret
There's an old song that goes "Doom, despair, and agony on me. If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all. Doom, Despair and Agony on me."
I have been working out religiously six days a week for about 5 weeks now. For the most part it's been great. I've been getting stronger by the day. But, about a week ago, I started feeling pain in my left hip off and on. Last night... BAZINGA...it hit me like a brick. I was already super sore from a hard core upper body work out the day before. But, this was beyond just sore. It hurt.
Sidelined. Boo!
I spent today being a bit afraid and bummed out. I don't want to give myself an "out". Despite the fact that this is day 33, it's still all very new. Then, I thought about how I could get through this challenging day without letting myself down and without causing further injury.
Yes. My hip hurts. But, not all the time. Only when I do certain movements like lunges, squats and that stupid Wii Hula Hoop game. (I'm almost positive the freakin Hula hoop did it to me). It's a cardio day. I can do that right? So, I nixed the Hula Hoop game and went for it.
I'm still in some pain tonight. But, I made it through cardio unscathed. I'm dealing with the sciatic pain and keeping my nutrition in check. That's the best I can do. and, that's enough. Screw Doom... despair and agony. They can go bother someone else. I'm busy.
Cheers!
Margaret
Monday, February 1, 2010
Crap In... Crap Out...
Day 32
Consider This:
The human body is made up of 75 Trillion cells.
Now Consider This:
Within one year, each and every one of those cells will be gone. It's true. Completely gone!
Right now as I write this post each and every one of my 75 trillion cells is degenerating and regenerating. Imagine the effects of a Big Mac vs. the effects of a piece of grilled chicken. The key here is to begin rebuilding those cells with quality materials and make sure they are available at the right times, in the right combinations and the right quantities.
Far too many us aren’t getting nearly enough of essential nutrients. Scientific research shows most people are low on water, dangerously deficient in essential fats, undersupplied in quality protein and malnourished in many vitamins and minerals. This is not good. Our bodies will do the best they can, in spite of the missing ingredients. The body is brilliant, and it can adjust and adapt to so many circumstances. But when it is starved of essential nutrients, day after day, its ability to recreate cells the right way becomes crippled.
In simpler terms... crap in... crap out!
By eating well we have the opportunity to enhance the recreation process and essentially create a brand new body in exactly one year. I find this to be totally amazing. It's very empowering to know that for every fruit, vegetable, carbohydrate and protein I eat and every chip, candy bar and cookie I don't eat, I am building a brand new me.
Cheers!
Margaret
Consider This:
The human body is made up of 75 Trillion cells.
Now Consider This:
Within one year, each and every one of those cells will be gone. It's true. Completely gone!
Right now as I write this post each and every one of my 75 trillion cells is degenerating and regenerating. Imagine the effects of a Big Mac vs. the effects of a piece of grilled chicken. The key here is to begin rebuilding those cells with quality materials and make sure they are available at the right times, in the right combinations and the right quantities.
Far too many us aren’t getting nearly enough of essential nutrients. Scientific research shows most people are low on water, dangerously deficient in essential fats, undersupplied in quality protein and malnourished in many vitamins and minerals. This is not good. Our bodies will do the best they can, in spite of the missing ingredients. The body is brilliant, and it can adjust and adapt to so many circumstances. But when it is starved of essential nutrients, day after day, its ability to recreate cells the right way becomes crippled.
In simpler terms... crap in... crap out!
By eating well we have the opportunity to enhance the recreation process and essentially create a brand new body in exactly one year. I find this to be totally amazing. It's very empowering to know that for every fruit, vegetable, carbohydrate and protein I eat and every chip, candy bar and cookie I don't eat, I am building a brand new me.
Cheers!
Margaret
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