Days 81-90 long term success for 2012!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

In this next ten days, my thoughts and reflections from 100 days of Weight Loss by Linda Spangle will be about long term success. We are coming up on our one year anniversary for this blog and long term success is what both Mo and I are striving for. For me, it doesn't matter how long it takes for me to reach my goal of losing 30 pounds in the next year, but I am determined and committed to get there.

So here are the titles to preview the next ten days that I will be writing about-
Day 81- Unhook the chains: looking at eating related chain of events
Day 82- Last-straw eating: prevent eating when you reach that frustration point
Day 83- No more deprivation: dealing with situations in which you feel deprived, abused or singled out because of your dieting effort
Day 84- The expectation square: adjusting mental snapshot of how it is suppose to be
Day 85- Let it go: set a time limit on your feelings
Day 86- Minimize the damage: plan so you feel strong and prepared
Day 87- Old habits: get rid of them and create new ones
Day 88- I do care!: take care of real issues getting in the way
Day 89- At my best: this is what I'm like...
Day 90- Live "as if": you have reached your goal weight

Don't stop!
Push yourself!
You can make it one more day!
You are closer to achieving your goal!
MER

Day 80-Get a New Title

Reflections from 100 days of Weight Loss by Linda Spangle

What do the words- "fat, lazy, failure, fat slob, pig" make you see in your minds eye? For me it brings a negative picture of myself. So Spangle says that the brain does not recognize the difference between negative and positive images so it will assume that you want to look like a PIG!
In this new year it is time to create a new and improved picture of yourself. This will help you focus on your goals and as the reading says it will make you focus on your potential instead of your mistakes. It is time to redesign the new you moving forward and making progress. Come up with a new name for yourself one that is happy, positive and makes you smile every time that you say it to yourself. Suggestions from the reading and I am not sure I like them, but here it is- sexy mama, hot babe, power woman. Maybe "beautiful healthy mama" will work for me. The other big idea is that you pick something that describes you without describing your weight or size. Use this new name whenever you are deciding how to manage your life challenges. So when dealing with a stressful day I can ask myself, "How would beautiful healthy mama handle this?"

Here are some other phrases to use to describe yourself-
I am a fit person!
I am a healthy person!
I am a balanced person!
I am a strong person!
I am a solid person!

Tell Beautiful Healthy Mama your new name for this next year-
Working from the inside out,
MER

Day 79- Live as a "healthy" person

Thoughts from 100 Days of Weight Loss by Linda Spangle

Spangle encourages the reader to think healthy instead of thin. Again, it is about subtle changes in your words that will make the biggest impact and they have to match hour lifestyle. I don't like the word diet so I have always used the word "healthy" when referring to the changes that I am making in my life. Here are more that Spangle suggest and I really like them since they go with my overall long term goals and when I writing my 2012 goals I will incorporate them into it-
Fit, active, balanced,and strong.
Other things that I like about this section is that Spangle points out that the new wording will sustain since is it about a healthy lifestyle rather than just sticking to a diet plan. She encourages to use these phrases when talking to children about health- healthy food choices, better nutrition, and being physically fit. This is so important since all my parents talk to me about is how fat I was getting and how come I could not be thin like my cousins. They did not have the background and understanding that I have now. So instead I will say-
"We want to eat in ways that will make us healthier." and "Let's take a walk to improve how fit and strong we are."
So in 2012-
Be fit!
Be active!
Be balanced!
Be strong!
Working from the inside out,
MER

Day 78-Ditch the critic

Thoughts about 100 days of Weight Loss by Linda Spangle-
I am my worse critic! Spangle says to get rid of the negative self-talk and motivation through being critical just drags you down.
So here are the new positive self talk that I need to incorporate into my life so that I can reach my goals-
"Come on you are truly capable of doing anything!"
"I am important, I am valuable, and I count in this world."
"No matter what you do or say to me, I am still a worthwhile person."
By saying these phrases over and over when you start talking negative to yourself or when someone else cuts you down will help inspire you to stay strong and true to your goals. Then, live it as if it were the truth- because it is!
Working from the inside out,
MER

Day 77- The Healing Power of Rituals

From 100 days of weight loss by Linda Spangle

Rituals and routines help ground us by setting a pattern that maintains our emotional safety net. The familiar will help relax and heal you instead of rifling through the cupboards in search for something that will satisfy the immediate need. Start a new ritual of making yourself a cup of tea or here are some othe ideas that Spangle suggests:
- listen to instrumental music at night before you go to sleep
- light candles and meditate or sit in silence for awhile before dinner
- read a few pages from a special book- poetry, bible or a novel
- have a cup of tea and write about the day
- when traveling find something that will comforting- your favorite tea or even just the cup

By using these healing rituals it will help you feel nurtured, calm and energized.
Stay strong!
MER

Day 76- Emotional Safety

From 100 days of Weight Loss by Linda Spangle
In this chapter, Spangle introduces the idea of creating emotional safe places. The stress of the day can leave me feeling anxious, insecure or rattled. It might be a hard day in the classroom, a stressful meeting, or just the running around that I do. I need spaces where I can regroup and feel grounded and protected so that I can regain my strength and feel secure.
So I have my office that I call the bat cave since it has no windows and on my desk I have pictures that help me relax since I don't share my office I can do some deep breathing and positive visualizing without much interruptions. Sometimes I will purposely walk over to the nature area just so I can walk through the to regroup to feel grounded and solid again. At home, working in the garden helps me stay grounded or looking outside helps me.
Spangle suggest ways to create safety anywhere by carrying a favorite coffee cup when you go into meetings, or a special notebook. It gives you something to hold on to.
Whatever you do make those oasis or retreat spaces so you can stay emotionally safe instead of turning to food for safety.

Find your emotional safety space
Be strong
Be grounded
So you can be secure!
MER

Christmas MO Moments!

Christmas was grand - nothing fancy, nothing huge. My son fell asleep on the way home from picking him up at his Dad's on Christmas Eve - just a 10 minute drive, but he was tired. So, I did the milk and cookies for him. I will say that I didn't eat any of those cookies, but did have some on Christmas Day. Didn't feel that I went overboard too much this weekend. Got on the scale this morning and can honestly say that I am up about 2 pounds since the last time I weighed in (about 2 weeks ago). Happy with those results for the moment. Really wishing I was more down then up at this point, but I am glad that I have come this far this year!!

Some good parts of the weekend:

I had a spectacular Open House event on Friday night. I had two glasses of wine and didn't keep munching at the appetizer table during the night. Just visiting with friends was the best part. Oh, and keeping track of the boys goofing off in the bathroom kept me busy too (who taught them how to make wads of wet toilet paper - Santa almost didn't come this year!!!).

I was able to put all the goodies away and many things have gone into the freezer so that I don't keep eating them. My sister made Christmas dinner and gave me the left overs because she had to fly out of town yesterday morning. The left over prime rib has gone into the freezer. The left over ham from Friday night is going to make a good corn chowder that I can freeze!! Can't wait to get to cooking that this week.

The one thing I am happy with is that there was only 1 piece of pie left over!! Nothing like the whole pie from last year (yes, I did dust off a whole pie in less then 3 days last year) - boy, have I come far!!!

I don't feel like I am over eating. I am not that hungry and when I do go to the refrigerator I am finding that the fruit and vegetables are good!! I grab a glass of water and that is satisfying enough!! I don't have this urge to eat everything in sight before it goes bad.

The left over cookies have come to work!!

The presents were wonderful this year. Santa did a good job and for that I am grateful. Of course almost every game & toy was opened and used before the end of the day. Looking forward to this weekend with my son when we can actually play with the new helicopter he got from his Uncle and get to reading all the new books he got from his Aunts, too!!! Hard to have to go back to work for a few days, but grateful that I do have a job during some very tough times for many!!

Two more things:

I am going to take a break from blogging for a  moment. Giving Mer the chance to catch you all up on the 100 Day of Weight Loss and time for me to reflect on things that I need to accomplish. I have missed Mer's
perspective and support on the blog, so looking forward to her words in the coming days!!!

I had a semi-scary moment on Friday afternoon. Not sure if it was stress, the lack of sleep, the rush of the holiday or what. Did a quick trip to the grocery store and as I took that last turn, felt the rush of blood leave my head, the heart take a few too many fast beads and well, I am taking it easy. It came fast and left fast. Didn't phase me for more then a split moment, reflecting on it has taken up some brain power. Have to watch what is going on and going to make an appointment with my doctor. Do believe it was just something simple and have discussed it at great lengths with my family and all has been good since. I didn't get a nice new bracelet like McGee, but did read her post and am taking to heart everything that she said. I want to continue to work on my new healthy lifestyle, I want to lose this weight and I want to be looking smokin' hot for the water guy every two weeks (come on - laughter is the best medicine)....

Wishing you all a great end to your 2011 year and may 2012 bring you much love, happiness, healthiness, joy and wealth!!!!!!!

Staying MOtivated MO

Day 75- Small Wins

From 100 days of Weight Loss by Linda Spangle

I was reflecting back on this week and really feeling disappointed in myself because although I have been getting a lot done that I have not been getting up early for my workouts, not drinking nearly enough water and I stopped tracking my intake.
STOP! This is where Spangle suggests to notice the small wins. Look at your goals and which ones help move you closer to your goals? They can be anything that makes you feel more successful, happy, healthy or peaceful.
Write the small wins to affirm your success-
1. In spend time reading to my son everyday
2. I make sure to eat healthy snacks
3. I take the time to hug the people I love
4. I find alone time so I can be quiet to think and relax
5. I read a book fora pleasure during vacation

By focusing on accomplishments everyday I will become more confident that I can lose the weight that I want and become the person that I want to be. The mistakes will play a smaller role and I will have more appreciation for all that I do.
So take a moment to record a list of 5 small wins daily, read it aloud and notice how it affects your attitude.

Take the small wins and see your daily successes!
You can do this!

Working from the inside-out,
MER

Day 74- Watch for Rainbows

From 100 Days of Weight Loss by Linda Spangle-

Have you ever had a "No-Good-Very-Bad-Day?" We all have them. And for me I find that I search for food when I am having one of those days.  The challenges and discouragements are around us all the time, but Spangle encourages the reader to train yourself to look at all the good things around you.
Expecting the best out of the unexpected is what is needed to transform life into an everyday positive experience.  Joy is really an easy thing to find when you open your heart and use your keen senses to notice the good things around you.For example just sitting at this computer if I just pay attention I notice the warmth of the sun coming through the kitchen window, a hot cup of coffee my husband just made me, sunny yellow meyer lemons hanging from the tree waiting for me to squeeze to make ice cubes for future summer lemonade, and my son playing with my hair while he watches TV. Spangle calls these "rainbows" and points out that if you appreciate them they will change your outlook.
So even after the holiday season is done continue to look for those bright colorful rainbow moments, smile, celebrate and have an attitude of gratitude instead of comforting yourself with good old food. Nourish yourself with a daily dose of rainbows!
Happy holidays!
MER

MERRY !!!

MERRY

MERRY

HAPPY

HAPPY

JOY

JOY

This year has been the best and I am looking forward to the most wonderful 2012!!!

Thank you to all that read this blog for the support, encouragement, stories, laughter, tears and joy I have felt in reading, sharing and having many of you "be" there in my journey. Looking forward to not only more of my success, but your success in 2012!!!!!

Be safe, enjoy the joyfulness, magic, warmth and happiness of the season for whatever religious, non-religious or holiday celebration you have.

I will be with my family on Sunday, but get to have brunch with my brother (and two sisters) on Saturday to exchange gifts. I will also be praying for my lil sis and brother-in-law as they have to travel far to comfort family (losing family can be the toughest during the holidays). Wishing them safe journeys. On a lighter note, I am looking forward to the Christmas morning and seeing my 10 year olds' face light up as he opens the presents. His list was long and well, this Santa went very minimal, but I know that he will still enjoy what he does receive - the joy of spending time with ME (lol)!!! Received a card last night from an old boss and.  Maybe it is the season, but as much as I enjoy all of my other cards, this was the one card that just made my year!!!!!! (I miss him so!!!) Going to also have an Open House sipping cider, have a toast of Merry Cheer tonight. Just cider, a few munchies - reminds me of old times when you used to go house to house celebrating!! Glad that I am able to have friends over to help me start my Christmas weekend off with a bang!!

To all my blog friends and readers - have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!!!!!

Staying MOtivated MO

Day 73- All or Nothing

I stuggle with being a perfectionist. I want things to always be right and my way.  I think this comes from wanting, needing to be in control so that I can feel comfort.  So it has been for me an all or nothing when it comes to dieting. I am not very self-forgiving. I am hardest on myself. Atleast, that was me before I started this journey toward being healthy. Now I have as Linda Spangle calls it "put one foot in the gray" I have had to give myself some wiggle room for mistakes, have some courage to be imperfect and to not give up that day because I ate something that was not in the plan.
When I have a moment I love listening to TEDtalks and this following video has really made me think about how I am living my life,  how I am parenting my children and has helped me further with becoming more comfortable with being vulnerable and changing from perfectionism to striving for excellence.  This way the pressure on myself is eliminated and I can be more whole hearted, worthy of love and belonging and live without prediction and control. I am feeling it is a better way to be for me and allows for me to be more gentle with myself and others. 

Brene Brown: The power of vulnerability

Happy Holidays!
MER

Day 72- Sneak Eating

From 100 Days of Weight Loss by Linda Spangle

Oh man, this is one of my pitfalls- Sneak Eating. I am horrible since I will eat while I am making dinner. No one sees me eat because they are busy doing homework or they are not home yet.  Then, I will eat while it is  time to eat dinner too, but I am good with my portions and I make myself look good at the table. Then afterwards, I will pick at the food as I am putting it away.  I am a good diet eater in front of my family, but I have this nasty habit of Sneak Eating that I have to break for good.
Now, I have been working on this. So what works for me may not work for you. I chew on gum while I am making dinner so that I don't sneak food and I will drink only water after dinner instead of pick at the food when cleaning up.  It works for me. 
When I was sneaking I was sabotaging my own goals and I was feeling miserable about it.  So another thing that Linda Spangle suggests is to always in front of the presences of others. This stops me from pigging out on that carton of ice cream straight from the freezer. I have asked for support on this and it has made a world of difference.

Come up with your own-
No More Sneak Eating Plan
Share it!
And do it!
It will make all the difference!

Always on the move,
MER

Day 71- It's Too Hard!

I CAN DO THE HARD THINGS!

While Mo has been blogging daily I have been quietly working hard on my own. I read her posts everyday, but because of my neck breaking schedule I can't seem to find the time to comment.  There have been days where I have just given up. I took Chemistry this past quarter and since it was an online course I struggle through a lot of the work on my own. Online is not my preferred style I would rather work with a group of people, but there are somethings in life we have no control over.  And I thought about giving up several times and dropping the class, but I have to do this for my job so I made myself believe that  I CAN DO THE HARD THINGS!
This applies to weight loss. There are days when I am struggling and I just want to give up. (Now somedays I do give up.)  But most of the time, I tell myself, "I know this is hard and you have done a lot of difficult things in your life and this isn't any different. I can overcome this and I know that I can do the hard things."
Losing weight is going to take effort. I have to track what I eat and avoid food temptations. I know there will be challenges, situations and people who will make things very difficult, but I have the courage and the focus to put up with the hard parts.  I am sure of this! I want my goals really badly that I know I can make it and I know I will reach my goals. 

Have laser tight FOCUS!
Have incredible COURAGE!
STAY STRONG!
IF I CAN DO THE HARD THINGS! 
so can YOU!

Always on the Move,
MER

Getting back to the 100 Days- DAY 70

I actually finished reading the 100 Days of Weight Loss by Linda Spangle months ago, but I am bound and determine to blog every single day so that I can look back on it and use it to remind me of all the things that I am working on.  I am a work in progress. Some days are better than others.  Right now, my focus is on taking care of business in my life, but as soon as the temporary insanity is over I will have more time to concentrate on my health. You see I have to take these science classes to keep my current position. It is only until May and then, life can go back to normal, but until then I will be on and off on this blog. I am on winter break and there are no science classes that I have to stay on top of because  the studying takes a discipline and a habit of mind. It is very similar to the changes that I am making in lifestyle. I have not stopped this healthy lifestyle journey. I just can't be blogging when I have classes at the University since I am still working full-time and have a family to care for.  I know Mo understands this, but I can't tell you how hard it is not to work on this blog since it gives me a focus and reminder of my long term goals that I desperately need. We do what we must as working moms and there are no regrets, there is no such thing as perfect. For me there is only living life as best as I can whole heartedly and just trying so hard to care for me no matter what comes my way. 

Back to Day 70- No Good or Bad is the title of this one.  It is referring to how we speak about our eating behavior and how we tell someone about our eating habits during the holidays by saying, "I was so bad the whole time I was at the Christmas party."  The problem with this is that "eating is not a moral issue so you can't apply behavioral codes to what you do with food," says Spangle. So eating junk food that you like doesn't make you a bad person. It is time to stop using those words to describe your food intake. 
So now it is time to call it "eating choices" With this new approach you can use the phrase, " I made good choice in eating oatmeal and a hard boiled egg for breakfast. This afternoon, I made a poor choice when I ate not just one, but three brownies!"  This makes each action a choice, " you can eliminate the punishing self messages that say you were bad."
By changing your language, you are changing your habits of mind and taking back your power around food.  By using the word "choose" you are thinking about your options instead of being mindless and unaware. This can only lead you to be responsible in your decisions about what to eat. 
So change bad and good to healthy choice and poor choice!

YOU CAN DO IT!
YES YOU CAN!
NEVER GIVE UP!

Always on the move- MER

Shoulda, Woulda....still Can!!! (and I DID)

I should have exercised this morning. I would feel better if I did. Morning was starting out okay, but then got to work and all the hens in the basket...well, the eggs seem to have broken.

I know that when I would have exercised I would be in a better mood. I should have exercised and my attitude would be a bit better about the unorganized aspect of my job (not any of my issues....just not knowing how each day is going to play out lately is frustrating)...boss does not know if he is coming or going and then he goes and we don't know when he is coming back...like I said, unorganized mess.

So, I should have exercised, and if I did I know I would be in a better mode. I still can get in my exercise today. Lunch time can allow me a 30 minute walk - foggy or not, it will do this body some good. Then a 30 minute workout after dinner while watching a Christmas Special with my son - we seem to have a pattern going this month - love all the many Christmas shows - makes the season seem more special!!!

Not regretting the Should or the Would - looking forward to the Can!!!!

**** Update - did a lunchtime walk at our local Lake/Park area. It was not quite 30 minutes, but a good 20. The sun cut through the thick fog from this morning and I had a moment to enjoy the peacefulness.

Got the blood flowing and am ready to finish off my day ***



The whole pathway from start to finish is just about one mile!!



Look at how quiet it is out there!


Staying MOtivated MO

Those simple reminders....

Yesterday was a order lunch in day for work. I was determined that the guys could just deal with a Subway sandwich rather then a trip to our favorite loads of calories deli. I also was going to have Subway for dinner, as it was a busy night with our final Scout meeting of the year (woo hoo!!! - can you tell I am glad for that - this leader needs a little break). I am truly grateful that my son enjoys Subway and loads up on the vegies and he always makes a great selection on his meal. The subway day was wonderful for me. I even went to bed last night without having an evening "snack" or "munch".
As I woke up at 3 am this morning and could not get back to sleep I decided to step on the scale. I was happy with what I saw. Down another pound since last weeks weight. As I tried to go back to sleep and was thinking about everything under the sun - wrapping Christmas gifts, doing an Open House event next week, dealing with vacation schedules, what are we doing this weekend, making my Mom's famous pie next weekend - yes, I was thinking. I also thought about my Subway day and found myself saying - Hey, if Jared can do a Subway diet, how come I can't"...but then I was thinking I can't do that...I don't want to be famous - too much time away from home, right?! (giggle) I can do my own weight loss at home. Eat well, be healthy....this I have done really well this year and even if I am at about 85% right now, I need to get back to that 100% to continue making progress.
So, the thoughts in my head like sugar plums and candy treats (sounds like a Christmas Story) got me thinking about those simple reminders. Keeping this list handy is a valuable key to my success:

1. No Fast Food (Subway makes a fast sandwich, but much healthier for you then a hamburger and fries)
2. No sodas
3. Drink 6 - 8 glasses of water a day
4. Exercise 4-5 times a week at 30 minutes a shot
5. Pack my own lunch - there is variety, you save on gas and you save that $7.00 a day you would have paid if you went to the sandwich shop.
6. No eating after 7 pm
7. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep a night
8. Portion Control - don't even think about filling that plate a second time.
9. Limit the sweet treats!

Some simple reminders....getting me to the end of 2011 and will continue into the New Year!!!


Staying MOtivated MO

No Excuses

I have been fighting off a sinus infection for the last week or so. Tuesday was not a good day for me, so I stayed home and did my best to get better. In addition to doing some cleaning, sleeping and battling with my nose I took the time to catch up on all the DVR taping I did with my favorite show - The Biggest Loser. It was a fitting time to do so, since the finale was going to be on later that night.

Just two highlights of what I learned:  (as I did pause from time to time from the fast forward mode and didn't just sit and watch the whole thing from start to finish...that is not the point of watching it - Move more!!!)

 - Did you know that Onions have more calories then brocolli, asparagus and mushrooms? (this kind of amazed me and still a bit baffled by it)

-  Most over weight people have a small "desire" spot in their brain, where a thin persons spot is much bigger. So it might take us two hamburgers to fullfill that desire, where it would only take a smaller person to eat 1/2 of one hamburger. More information to that, but it was very informative. I am working on lowering my "desire" brain spot.

At the finale I again was in and out of the room watching, but was happy to see a preview of the new Season. The NO EXCUSES Season!!!

I am going to like this upcoming season, because I remind myself everyday that there is - no excuse good enough to make myself fit. No excuse good enough that I can't be losing the weight. No excuse good enough to allow me to get healthy and to be around for not only myself, but for my family and friends.

I have a list up around my house that reminds me not to have any excuses. I see it when I wake up, I see it when I go into the kitchen and I see it when I am leaving the house for the day. No excuse!! I am doing that now and will continue to do it. I will follow those TV Biggest Losers and not only will they succeed in 2012, but I will continue to succeed and we all will be Biggest Losers!!!!!!!!!!!

Staying MOtivated MO

A Feel Good Saturday

This past Saturday I attended a yearly Holiday event. I join a group of friends on a Lighted Boat Parade. They spend several weekends putting up lights and adding blow up items all over a boat as a "float" of sorts. We travel on the water to the starting point and as we wait to start the 4 hour floating parade of fun we have a great BBQ lunch, laugh, drink a little and get all dressed up in whatever the theme is that we have created. We never do the parade theme - we have always gone away from the norm. One year it was floating Santa's, the next was a Halloween fun time, the next was Red White & Blue and last year we had fun as Vikings. This year we were excited to be Cowboys. Hats, boots, guns and salon girls were on the agenda.

I will admit that I was a bit nervous about going, as I seem to be every year. I told myself to make sure I didn't eat too much, drink too much, but do have fun. There are always munchies on the boat that are non-stop and are so tempting. It was funny, but I really was not hungry and didn't have the need to be by the snack table during the trip. I did really well. I had a few crackers and some cheese. Loved the vegetables (without the dip), wishing that there were more. Then when we made our meal I only had one helping of the Chili and Tri Tip. I was really excited about the Chili, because I don't really cook from scratch and this time I did. It was really good and got rave reviews. Late in the evening the guys were eating the lukewarm chili and were craving more in the morning....back to my story...............As the day progressed I was feeling good. I not only realized that I was not carrying around 40 extra pounds from last years event, but many other things happened this night...

• I was able to get down the boat dock ramp with ease.
• Getting on the boat was not a struggle or fear of being too "clumsy" to get on - not that hard, as it is, but still a factor for me. 
• Sitting down in the boat chairs was not uncomfortable.
• I was bundled up and I was thrilled to be bundled this year. I did not feel large or out of sorts wearing my jacket. This year it actually fit, even with the added layers underneath.
• Felt good about dancing and didn't mind doing it this year!! (maybe fear of rockin the boat too much).
• I kept my food intake at moderation, even the alcohol, too. Drank tons of water - thank goodness there is an "outhouse" on the boat (come on, it is a Western theme ya all!)

It was a feel good Saturday!!! Can't wait for next years celebration even more!!!



Chuck Wagon Cook Mo - the Chili was really good!!!

Our boat is nothing fancy and we like it that way. Some huge yachts come out and most of them hire a creator to transform their boat into a magical palace!! We put a lot of love into our creation!! 

The front of our boat !



Their music is always sooooo loud...glad they are at the end of the parade

 

Loved this one - the canons had smoke coming out and almost all the passengers were Pirates

 

Another favorite

Holiday Office Traditions

Ahhhh - the Holidays. Time for those nice customers and clients we have to say Thank You and Congrats on a great year to the companies that they do business with. The holidays seem to bring out the need to share the joy of the year by giving us food. I look forward to getting Holiday food gifts from our business associates (unless you count that one year that involved a gifted ham, homemade soup, the bone in my bosses throat and her losing 10 pounds during the whole process - yes, I have not made the soup since and can't look at a "gifted" ham the same way anymore).

The food of choose for most office's is receiving the yummy delicious (dreaded)  If you live in the Western states and for sure California, then you know what this delightful treat is. When I was little I loved to eat the hard candy lollipop's they make. These little stores are so delightful and the ladies always wear cute little black & white outfits. I always thought that would be the best job to have at Christmas time - all the chocolate you could eat - LOL

Something like this box   is sitting on my desk right now. Well, actually on the top counter area. In the last 30 minutes three people have come up to eat a treat out of the box. As one of my co-workers walked by he said I should take the box up to the main office - which is totally what I planned to do. I can control myself with my daily desktop candy dish, but this box - well, this box is too tempting.

But wait - you won't believe what just happened!! My boss has come up to the box about 3 times already and as he is searching through the collection he turns to me and wants to know which one is the coconut caramel one. The box comes close to my nose. I totally have to push back my chair. "No - don't put that box near me"...but he is really searching. I have to laugh so hard !! This is too funny, that he is searching for a cocoanut caramel chocolate. That box landed right on my desk!!

Okay - I thought I would have fun with this. I am a huge google fan, so off to the computer I went. We typed in the website - we looked over the selections - there was chocolate everywhere. We could not find the coconut...or cocoanut as See's spells it. I picked up a piece in the little dark wrapper - viewed the piece - matched it to the picture on the screen - nope, that was not it. Picked up another....this was too funny - here we were inspecting chocolate. And you know what - there never was a cocoanut one. My boss ate three pieces in the process. I didn't even lick my lips.

Triumph - Applause !! Didn't even think that inside one of those chocolates would be a caramel delight. Because, as delicious as this holiday treat can be, I don't need one, I don't want one and I will not have one!!! At the end of this Holiday I will truthfully be able to report that I DID NOT have one piece!!

Please excuse me, but I have to remove the box from my view..........Have a great Monday!!

Staying MOtivated MO 

0.84

40 Pounds in 48 weeks. 0.84 x 48 = 40!! That's it - no more, no less - well, maybe a bit more from week to week, but no less. I thought about that last night. Kept saying to myself, what - only 40 pounds? How come you have not done more? You should have done more? What is the stand still? Come on, MO, start making that scale go down more. I also thought about that post I did yesterday, that I was grateful for the 40 pounds. I got comments back about it and yes, I should be truly grateful for 40 pounds. I wrote it, but was not really believing it. Then the light bulb went off. I did accomplish 40 pounds!! Yes, I did. Nothing to be sad about. Nothing to be frustrated with. I should not be thinking it is ONLY 40 pounds. It IS 40 pounds.

I took out the calculator, I counted the weeks since Mer and I started this journey - just about 48 weeks, which means just about 0.84 pounds I have lost each week.

That IS an accomplishment. I will not get frustrated when I hear others doing 2 pounds, 3 or even 4 a week. Nor will I be upset that I have not done more. My 0.84 pounds a week for the last 48 weeks has been a struggle, BUT ALSO a joy, a great movement from where I used to be and to into where I will be in the future!!

44 for my 44th year = 0.85 x 52 - Watch out 2012, here I come!!!



Staying MOtivated MO

Thankful Thursday!!!

I have been thinking of doing a Thankful post for quite sometime. Yes, I know Thanksgiving has come and gone, but there is so much that I am Thankful for this time of year. Maybe this should be Thankful Blessings, rather then Thankful Thursday...

1. Thankful that I finally and successfully have been losing weight this year. I want to keep staying on track, but struggling a bit in the last few months. I am not giving up and continue to be Thankful that I have lost about 40 pounds (give or take a few pounds) and inches all around. Looking forward to the next 40 in this Thankful process!!!

2. Thankful for my job. It may not be the most glamorous, but I am still employed. Saying a prayer for many that are struggling with finances and employment not only now but for the last few years.

3. Thankful for my son. Looking forward to doing more with him in the years to come. I even realize that when I don't get in my daily exercise that it does effect my mood and it effects our days together. Thankful that I have started to exercise and that our times together have been less stressful, as there can be worry moments for this single parent. Keeping it all in perspective!!

4. Thankful that I am learning to enjoy exercise. There are so many options for me. The punching bag, the walking workouts with my neighbor, the balance ball, trying a really old Richard Simmons workout tape, Sunday morning Pilates classes with Mer...the list goes on and on.

5. Thankful for new sizes. Yes, it has not happened in a few months, but the current size of pants I am wearing seem to be falling off. Thankful that those pants have to be held up with a belt.

6. Thankful for what lies ahead and all the support that I am getting. From friends, family and my blogging. Many are an inspiration, motivation and goal setters that keep me moving!!!

What are you Thankful for this Holiday Season - or any other time of the year?

Staying MOtivated MO

Exercise Equipment Review

The other day I had a comment about my punching bag. Yes, I have a punching bag in my garage. If you know me well and some of the issues I have to deal with, then you know that this punching bag gets a good workout from time to time. I wrote about it in this Post. I find that if I put in a load of laundry, then 45 minutes later the laundry is in the dryer and I have gotten in a good workout. Sometimes I take the time to jog around the car in the garage so that I am mixing it up, too. My arms feel so energized afterwards.

I was also asked the other day about my balance ball. I love love love my balance ball. I took a private session from Mer's sister some months back to help me get some good ideas about how to use the balance ball to my advantage. I wrote about my first real workout with the balance ball on this post. I was so excited to have one balance ball, that I purchased another one. However, that didn't last long when we all heard the Boom some months back. I find that I use the balance ball when I have decided to take in a movie, or just kind of hang out in the family room with my son as he is watching television. My home office desk is in that same room, so it is always hard to focus on what paperwork has to be done when the whole time I hear my balance ball calling my name. I do find that the ball is somewhat low for me to use at my desk, but I will pump it up a bit to give me that added lift and use is as my chair. There are bigger balance balls that you can purchase, and I have contemplated getting another one soon. The reason I love this one exercise equipment is that I can do my crunches with ease. I feel the pain in my abs and legs for days after. By adding the balance ball to my weekly exercise sessions I see more complements. Even if I have not lost any more weight since July I am getting toned and my body is taking on a whole new dimension.

It feels good to do just the little things and get such big results. What type of exercise equipment do you enjoy using - at home or at the gym? Or are you more of a runner / walker and the great outdoors is your exercise equipment?

Staying MOtivated MO

Move More.....

Yes, we have all been told this over and over again. I know that I need to move more, but in the last few weeks that movement has been minimal. I need to remember - eat less junk, eat more good for you food and move more!!!

To give me a little of a kick I did a Friday post stating what workouts I wanted to do this weekend. I felt like if I wrote them down then I would hold myself accountable to myself and to my blog world. I think I did pretty good - all things considered -

30 minutes aerobics
45 minute outdoor walk
100 ball crunches on my balance ball
2 hours working in the garden, cleaning the garage and vacuum out the car

I also drank more water then I normally drink over the weekends.

Very very chilly this morning, so the workout will be done tonight...cold or not. I was pleased at what I saw on the scale this morning - finally happy with my movement!!!

Move More - what movements did you do today to make you feel good?

Staying MOtivated MO

Winning Moment!!!

Saturday - rushing here and there. Just the normal got to get things done kind of weekend day.

Coming home from one of my events today I was frustrated. I had cash in my wallet! My car made its way into a fast food parking lot. Drove into the drive through. Planned what I was going to purchase, waited for the car in front of me and then...............I put the car into reverse....I backed up and got back on the road. Pulled into the garage, called my neighbor and less then 30 minutes later we were taking a very brisk 45 minute walk around the neighborhood!!!!!!


Staying MOtivated MO

Weekend Workouts!!!!

Setting a goal for the weekend - have to get it into gear, been slacking in my workout goals.....

Saturday - going to be in the car for quite sometime, so have to make sure I get myself moving early...

Punching bag morning workout!!

After all the running around I will make sure I do a bit of Saturday afternoon strength training with balance ball and a good 3 circuit free weight workout on the arms, to include pushups.

Sunday morning workout - pilates - even if I can't be at the studio with the Sunday morning gals, I can still put in a workout at the same time.

If the weather is still nice on Sunday afternoon, - which, by the way was so wonderful this afternoon that I wanted to play hooky from work - will take a 45 minute walk.

Oh - have to work on the garden, so that will give me some more exercise.

Writing it down is going to keep me accountable to not only myself, but to my goals, too!!!!

Staying Motivated MO

I'm going to get fat

Yes, "I am going to get fat" was uttered from my 10 year old last night. For me, it was a laughable moment that a 10 year old boy was actually saying that he thought he was going to gain weight, but as I looked into the backseat of the car I see my Aman with tears streaming down his face.

Let me backup a bit. Aman, 10 years old and all, is a very active boy. He has the best metabolism anyone would ever want. I have never really seen a budgie stomach on him. He can eat like a horse one day and then the next he will just eat the basics. I mean, he is a growing boy. I have even thought about taking stock out on a grocery store just so I will have the money to feed him when he is a teenager. If you have a growing boy and a refrigerator, then you know what I am talking about.

I have been truly blessed that I don't have to tell my son to watch what he eats. I have also been truly blessed that he is not a huge fast food fan, does not have to have dessert each night and for sure is not a sweet eater. Heck, most years he will give me about 90% of his Trick or Treat bag and tell me to take it to work to share with others. Nor does my son have any issues with food - never been a picky eater...loves the soups, salads, veggies and will try mostly everything from fish to Menudo (Mexican stew)...but never sushi.

Last night we had to deliver the last of his Scout popcorn orders (the chocolate flavors don't come to us until late November). I normally plan for these type of trips - where I pick him up after I get off work, there is a little snack in the car, we do our errands and then home for dinner. However, last night I didn't prepare. As we got into the car and I told him what we were doing all does not go well. He had a rough day at school and wanted to go home. Did I have a snack for him? Nope. Didn't they give you a snack at your after school group? Nope. Well, sort of...but he didn't like what they had.....you see, my son is for sure one person that has to eat every 3 hours. There is no ifs ands or buts about it. I knew I was in trouble.

After doing our deliveries (a full 1.5 hours for sure) we headed out to dinner. I figured if we had to do a "chore" of sorts, that eating out would be a nice change of pace. I did my best to give him the water I had in the car as a comfort, but didn't have any cash with me to even pick up a small bite to eat (and I am not one to use my ATM card for just a $2.00 purchase). Off to Chili's - his favorite restaurant.

I already knew what he wanted to eat, but to my surprise he actually wanted to try something new. As he looked over the menu he says "I want a FULL rake of Ribs". What - the full size - that is crazy, but I knew he would eat it all. I did my best to convince him that it was way too expensive to do that. I wanted to do the $20.00 meal deal - an appetizer and then we both got a meal, too. Nope, that didn't work. Being extremely hungry was too much for this little guy. We finally struck a compromise.

But, that compromise was letting my 10 year old dictate the meal situation (I am such a softy). He started with a bowl (not a cup) of Chili, then had the 1/2 rack of ribs (ate all 5 of them - I think I got one bite off of one), he then ate the extreme mashed potatoes - covered with bacon, cheese and chives, then he ate two of my Big Bite hamburgers (we got this meal because he didn't think he was going to like the Ribs and therefore, if he didn't like them we would trade) Big Bites are the small little sandwich type hamburgers - there are 4 with this order. He also ate 1/2 of the order of fries I had on my plate (yes, I had fries). I am not really sure why I caved into this option of meal choose, but I guess I wanted to make sure my hungry guy was going to be taken care of, so played it safe and got two meals that were going to make him happy. And yes, he had a lot to eat. Let's not forget the 1 glass of soda. He even wanted more to eat after that meal - saying something like "my stomach is still empty". That boy can eat!! (still spent less then getting the full rack of ribs...but that is the last going out adventure for the month).

Here is where this 10 year old feels that he will get fat. As we are driving home I hear myself saying all the things Aman ate at dinner, in a good way and laughing that he is a bottomless pit. After I say it I hear Aman in the back seat crying - What was that all about? My son says, through the tears, that he felt he was going to get fat. Oh, no - no you are not. I proceeded to tell him everything from, you are an active boy, to saying if I thought you would get fat I would not let you eat all of that food in one sitting, look how skinny you are, you don't have a tummy on you, you will burn all of that food off before you even get into bed...you are not going to get fat.

Now, I don't have a big finish to this story. No spectacular words to live by. No real solution or how I "digested" this whole moment, or that I sort of want to go back in time, or that I felt bad that he feels this way. I did, however, come to the realization that our own children can say the simplest things and make you realize so much!!!

Staying MOtivated Mo