Sassy on the Path

Back on the Wagon - Wooooo Hooooo!

2009-02-27T14:16:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been several months since I've checked in here and I am sorry to say the past few months have found me about 50% on the program. For the most part, I have been exercising regularly - most weeks I get in about 4-5 hours of exercise, but the diet has been off most of the time.

At any rate, over the past year or so I have regained a good deal of the weight I had lost back when I was diligently following this program and I am pretty disgusted with myself. However, being a person who always likes to look forward and not backward, I am determined to stay positive and get back on track.

Today was the first day of really being diligently back on the wagon.

Today was a 1400 calorie day. I had a protein shake for breakfast (275), a pizza bagel with vegetarian "sausage" and onions (575) for lunch and a veggie burger on whole wheat bread topped with sauteed peppers and mushrooms (and some veggie "bacon") and cheese (550). My total calories for the day was right on the money at 1400.

For my workout, I walked to our local tennis courts and met a friend for tennis. We played for about a half hour (I couldn't play long because I had to go to work) and then I walked home. My total exercise was 1 hour.

My goal is to lose about 10 pounds/month and really get toned up by the summer. I know if I really maintain my diligence on this program it will happen!

Doing well

2008-09-25T07:33:00.000-07:00

So far I have been doing really well this week. I've worked out every day so far, whenever possible doing that extra walk at lunch time. I went back to the ice skating rink on Tuesday - that was a lot of fun. I haven't been there in months. I realized that it's a lot more fun when I don't go so frequently - it feels more exhilirating. I was surprised at how quickly I reacclimated to ice skating. I feared I would be a little rusty and unsure of myself, but I wasn't.

I was proud of myself yesterday. I woke up feeling pretty run down, headachy (PMS) and I was also a little short on time, but I dragged myself into the workout room and did a workout anyway. I did Michelle Dozois' Your Best Body Circuit- only the "express" version (the DVD contains 2 workouts - the regular 1 hour workout, and a condensed 30 minute workout).

On cardio days, since I know I will have my fitness walk at lunch, that leaves my mornings open, so I've been doing yoga in the morning. It's great to do yoga. I usually don't do it that frequently because it doesn't really fit well into my schedule of alternating days of cardio & strength (which I do not want to sacrifice). I LOVE yoga, though. It makes me feel so chilled out and I think it helps to keep me on the program because it has a soothing psychological effect on me.

My diet has been on track too. As I mentioned, the next month is going to consist of mostly 1400 calorie days with a few 3000 calorie days sprinkled in on days when we have social/eating occasions. The 1400 days are truly a challenge and not that easy to do, but it's worth it if I can have my splurge days. So far this week I have been right on track.

Checking in...

2008-09-23T09:35:00.000-07:00

Well, the weight gain episode really derailed me psychologically for a few days, but I am happy to report I am back on track this week. What's more, I have increased my exercise level. In addition to my usual 5-days-a-week workout schedule, I am also adding in a little extra by taking walks at lunch time every day I can (when the weather is suitable and when I don't have other obligations).

As of today there are only 30 days until our Mexico trip so I am really trying to buckle down. I am having to alter my calorie allotment schedule a little because I have about 7 special occasions over the next month which involve social eating. So what I have done is allotted those days 3000 calories and the rest of the month 1400 calories. This comes out to the same as my normal schedule. It's a little difficult because 1400 calorie days are TOUGH, but I know I can do it.

I'd really like to drop 10 pounds from where I am now over the next 30 days.

Disgusted!

2008-09-14T15:41:00.000-07:00

I haven't written in few days and that is because I am disgusted.

My 10-day weigh in was supposed to be on Sunday the 14th, but Saturday the 13th was a planned splurge day, so I decided to weigh-in Saturday morning instead.

Well, to my utter horror - I GAINED 2 pounds over the past 8 days. GAINED! This, after 9 days of 100% diligence with both diet and exercise. This has never happened before. I thought something must be wrong with the scale so I got on and off 3 times, but same result.

I just don't get it. I mean, I can understand maybe not LOSING much, but GAINING? How is this possible?

I was so disgusted, I have been off the program the last 3 days. Tomorrow I will get back on (grudgingly) but I am going to have to work against serious psychological disgust.

Good Day for a Walk

2008-09-11T15:23:00.000-07:00

I did well today on the program. For my workout, I took a 40 minute power walk at lunchtime. I work two blocks from an Ivy League University and it's the most beautiful campus. I love to take walks through the campus - especially this time of year when the campus is teeming with students. It gives me those back-to-school butterflies, even though I am done with school for now. The photo I posted here is exactly where I take my walk.

My calorie goal was 1800 today and I was right on track. I had a shake for breakfast, Ellio's pizza for lunch (which I dressed up with sauce, veggies, vegetarian "sausage" and cheese). After the pizza I had a handful of yogurt raisins. For dinner I just felt like having cookies, so that's what I had.

Total calories was 1780.

Wednesday

2008-09-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

I tried another new fitness DVD today - Amy Bento's Slo-Mo Strength Challenge. I wasn't feeling the love with this one. It was very tough, and very thorough, but I found it to be boring (too many reps of each exercise, not enough variety) and some of the exercises were so advanced that I had to modify. I did the entire workout, but I didn't really enjoy it as much as I enjoy many of my other workouts. I kept watching the clock. I'll probably get rid of this one.

My calorie goal was 1,400 today and although it was tough, I managed to do very well. I had a protein shake for breakfast, some leftover noodle/veggie stir fry for lunch, a pile of grapes for a snack and for dinner I had a fish taco with homemade salsa. My calories came out right at 1,400.

I am starting to see some visible changes in my physique since I got back on the wagon in earnest. My shoulders are regaining definition and my stomach has flattened a bit. I can also see a bit of change in my face...it's definitely thinned out (the double chin is just about gone). Right before I had gotten seriously back on the wagon, I had to buy a larger size dress pant because none of my other dress pants were fitting me well. Now, the new pants are at the point where they are too loose to wear, so that's a good sign. Today I am back in an old pair of dress pants. They fit a little snug, but THEY FIT.

I am really going to keep plugging away. My main motivator is the Mexico trip, but I also want to slim down quite a bit before the holidays. In past years, the holiday season would always end with me feeling totally disgusted that I was even heavier than I was before the holidays, and before the holidays I was already too heavy. This year (like last year) I want to get through the holidays and come out on the other side feeling happy with how I feel and look. I want to be able to enjoy the holidays, but not feel like all hell has broken loose to the point that serious New Years resolutions have to be made.

The hard thing about fall and winter is that it is an EATING season...not only the usual holiday celebrations, but it's a time when I like to bake and eat comfort food (homemade mac & cheese anyone?). I still eat those things on my program, but they are very calorie-dense so I get very little food for the calories. For example, I baked some chocolate chip oatmeal cookies a week ago and as I always do now, I calculated the calories for the recipe as I made them so that I could eat them on my program. Well, it turned out that 5 cookies (each cookie about 2" in diameter) was over 700 calories!!! Can you imagine? No wonder I put on so much weight in the past. I used to plow through piles of cookies without a thought, especially during the holidays.

Mexican Tuesday

2008-09-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

I woke up so sore Tuesday morning. I am telling you - that workout on Monday was just killer. The backs of my upper legs were particularly sore.

Despite having sore legs, I took a 35 minute power walk for my cardio workout.

My calorie goal was 2,000 on Tuesday. I am not 100% sure how I did with the calories because my lunch was at a Mexican restaurant so obviously I couldn't count calories, but I think I was able to estimate pretty closely. It was an upscale place with small plates (tapas), not the usual American/Mexican grease pit type place. I had some tortilla chips, salsa and guacamole to start (not nearly as good as the guac and salsa I make at home, to be honest). I also had a very small serving of ceviche (probably 1/2 cup, if that) with tortilla chips and another small appetizer that I would describe as a small flatbread with sauteed mushrooms and a smidgen of cheese. For dessert I had a very small piece of tres leches cake, which was about the size of 1/2 cup. Oh, and I also had a Mexican soda. I estimated this lunch at about 1,200 calories.

I only had about 500 calories left for dinner and I just felt like having some ice cream, so I had 1 ice cream sandwich and some fudge popsicles.

My total calories were right around 2,000 (estimate).

Manic Monday

2008-09-08T07:24:00.001-07:00

Mondays are always tough, but especially when it's a low-cal day (1500), which it was today.

I've been getting a little bored with my workout collection, so I purchased a few new workouts recently. I did one of them this morning - Angie Miller's Strength & Core Fusion. This was one tough workout!!! OMG, I was literally cursing at some points, it was so tough. There were lots of compound exercises which were strength-oriented, but also kept the heart rate up, so it was like doing strength and cardio simultaneously. Not sure if this workout will become a favorite. It's definitely a thorough workout, but it seemed to be lacking the fun factor. Also, the instructor is somewhat annoying as she talks NON-STOP through the entire workout. I mean there isn't one second in this video where she is not talking. Grates on my nerves.

My diet was right on track today. For breakfast I had my usual protein shake. For lunch I had a veggie burger on whole wheat bread with sauteed onions and mushrooms, topped with cheese, ketchup and mustard. For dinner, I had 2 toasted English muffins with peanut butter. For dessert I had 1/2 frozen banana dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with peanuts (I made these popsicles over the weekend). Total calories for today was 1525.

Stir Fry Sunday

2008-09-08T02:04:00.000-07:00

Well, back to reality on Sunday - it was a 1400 calorie day. :(

I simply had too much to do yesterday so I skipped the workout. I had shopping and lots of housework to do, so I decided that would be my exercise for the day. Doing a formal workout plus all the chores would result in running myself into the ground.

My calorie goal was 1400 and I was just 50 calories over. I had a protein shake for breakfast, a bowl of Campbell's Tomato Soup and a grilled cheese sandwich for lunch. For dinner I made an awesome stir fry. This weekend I discovered this new Asian supermarket near my house (it is about size of a regular supermarket and I was the only Caucasion shopping there - good sign!) I stocked up on all kinds of sauces, noodles and other stuff. Anyway, last night I put the ingredients to good use. The stir fry was made of an assortment of veggies, seitan (vegetarian "meat") and rice noodles. For the sauce I used soy sauce, chili paste, rice vinegar, sesame paste and ginger. It was delectable! Oh, and I had a 50 calorie popsicle after dinner because I had a raging sweet tooth.

Scrumptious Saturday

2008-09-07T09:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a fantastic day! It was my splurge day and also my rest day, so no calorie counting and no working out. I'll tell you, all those days of lower calories and exercise are worth it for that one treat day each week.

So I ate all kinds of crap yesterday - I can't even remember all that I ate but I ate whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted with no measuring, weighing, counting or writing anything down. Although my diet was mostly crap during the day, I did make a fantastic (and healthy) dinner. I love to cook and quite a repertoire of wonderful things I make, but this is probably my favorite of all the dinners I make:

FISH TACOS

Breaded tilapia fried in a little oil (the breading is a mixture of panko bread crumbs, regular bread crumbs, wheat germ, grated cheese and herbs.)

Homemade guacamole

Homemade salsa

Wrap the fish, guacamole and salsa in a warm, soft tortilla, squirt some lime juice over the filling and sprinkle with cheddar. MAJOR YUM! I mean, this is about as good as anything we eat in Mexico. FANTASTIC.

TGIF

2008-09-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

Today was a bit challenging, since it was a 1,400 calorie day. Never easy! But I have been telling myself all day to hang in there because tomorrow is my splurge day. Boy I am ready for it.

I had a protein shake for breakfast, a vegetarian chili burrito with cheese for lunch and all I wanted for dinner was snacks, so I had cheese and crackers and 2 fudge pops (I know, so healthy). My total calories for the day was 1,445.

Today my workout goal was cardio and I didn't feel like doing my usual cardio workouts so I went outside for a power walk. I walked for about 35-40 minutes all around the neighborhood (with my IPod of course).

So all in all, a successful day.

Thursday

2008-09-04T08:08:00.001-07:00

Today was a moderately easy day, since my calorie allotment was 2,000. For breakfast I had a toasted English muffin with peanut butter. For lunch I had a burrito filled with vegetarian chilli and reduced fat cheddar cheese. I indulged in 4 homemade oatmeal chocolate chip cookies for a snack. For dinner I had baked potatoes topped with steamed broccoli, fried onions and reduced-fat cheddar. My total calories for the day came out to 2,050.

I did a tough strength workout this morning: FitPrime's Strong Bear. Boy, it felt extra tough today for some reason and I was sweating bullets. That is one awesome workout!

10-Day Check-In - RESULTS

2008-09-04T03:18:00.000-07:00

I am very pleased to announce that I reached my first 10-day goal EXACTLY. I have lost exactly 6 pounds (to the tenth of the pound, which is pretty amazing). Needless to say I am really happy about this. It's been hard to get back on the wagon and really stick to the program diligently, but somehow I think I have finally done it.

My next check-in will be on September 14th and my goal is to lose 4 more pounds by then.

Wednesday

2008-09-03T11:34:00.000-07:00

Today was a very good day on the program. I started with a good cardio workout - I rebounded while watching WHFN's Fast Cheetah, and did the floorwork and ab section at the end.

I was right on track with my calories today, although one of my "meals" wasn't the healthiest. I had a protein shake for breakfast, 5 homemade oatmeal chocolate chip cookies for lunch and for dinner I had leftover shrimp creole. Total calories were right around 1500 which was my goal today.

Well, tomorrow is my first 10-day weigh in, so I am anxious to see how I did these past 10 days. The goal is 6 pounds, but I will be happy with ANY loss. I am feeling a bit thinner and am noticing a slight difference in the way my work pants are fitting me (much less snug) so I am pretty confident there will be a good result.

9 Fat-Burning Eating Tips from HungryGirl

2008-09-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

There was a good article today on Hungrygirl.com that I thought I would share with you.

"9 Fat-Burning Eating Tips

Now don't get all excited. We don't have any magic wand solutions that will take the place of exercise and eating right. But we do have a few foods that could help you on your journey to rid yourself of excess flab. Hungry Girl's here with the scoop...

LEAN PROTEIN: To put it simply, protein takes a lot of effort for the body to break down and digest. A lot more than, say, fat. So while your body is working hard to process that protein, you're burning calories. HG tip -- eat fish! Chances are you're not getting enough of it. Not only is fish a fabulous source of lean protein, BUT many types are full of those Omega-3 fatty acids you're always hearing about. Beans are also a wonderful source of protein. And it's no secret how we feel about our friend the soybean. (Let's have a cheer for veggie patties and soy-meats!)

WHOLE GRAINS: Belly fat is not particularly cute on anyone (except maybe babies), so it's exciting news that whole grains can do a number on that stubborn flab around your midsection. One of the easiest ways to get whole grains into your diet? Oatmeal in the morning. Quaker's Simple Harvest Multigrain Hot Cereal is really good and just full of grains. Also, Kashi GoLean's Hot Cereal packs in 7 whole grains and a big 5 - 7g fiber! Mmmmm...

GRAPEFRUIT: Ever since you were a kid popping Flintstones Chewables, you've known that Vitamin C is good for you -- and that certainly hasn't changed. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant AND has been shown in studies to help burn fat. So, if you're looking for a snack, how's about a nice, juicy grapefruit? The theory is that grapefruit helps to lower insulin levels, which keeps you from being hungry all the time! We know it smacks of classic diet food, but those Ruby Reds are MIGHTY delicious! If it's too sour for you straight, sprinkle it with some no-calorie sweetener like Splenda or stevia.

GREEN TEA: Green tea is EVERYWHERE. It's been classified as a "superfood" as it's been linked to reduced rates of heart disease and cancer. And now it helps us lose weight too? Green tea has been shown to raise our metabolism, which is key in our battle with the bad stuff. Researchers also suspect that substances called polyphenols combined with caffeine are responsible for its fat-burning properties. If the hot murky stuff doesn't do it for you, try HG's Green Tea Crème Swappuccino! Only 75 calories and SO GOOD!

SPICY FOODS: You know how when you eat spicy foods, you sometimes start to sweat a little (ew)? That's because it's given a little kick to your heart rate. These little kicks will result in a temporary increase in your metabolism, which will help you burn fat a little easier for a bit. A quick hit with cayenne, red pepper flakes, or whatever hot sauce you fancy should do the trick and get your blood pumping. And these spices are practically calorie-free. Yes!

LIGHT DAIRY: Hey, dairy queens! Good news! It turns out that people who eat low-fat or fat-free dairy lose MORE weight than people who don't. Sure we mentioned protein before, but it bears bringing up again since the magical combo of calcium and protein seems to work wonders. We're WAY into yogurt, so we suggest picking up some Fage Total 0% Greek Yogurt and mixing in your favorite fruits, sugar-free preserves... or whatever! Also, light string cheese is a GREAT little snack, with only around 50-60 calories and 2.5g fat a pop. Not bad for hard cheese, people.

WATER: Experts say it's important to drink lots of water if you're trying to burn fat Your body can't work effectively if it's dehydrated -- not only will you FEEL like you don't have any energy, but also your body really won't have what it needs to function and burn off fat. Keep that machine humming -- drink around 8 glasses of water a day!

CINNAMON: Sure this stuff tastes good -- that's why it's found in SO many things. But those chefs might not know that their sprinkling of cinnamon is helping the body process sugar more effectively and lower blood sugar levels. High blood sugar can lead to the body storing more fat, so maybe put together a little shaker of cinnamon and Splenda to sprinkle on your favorite foods! Then whip up some fat-burning cinnamon toast by using your new concoction on whole-wheat bread!

APPLES: An apple a day isn't going to keep the gym away, but it'll probably make your diet plan more effective. Word on the street is that the pectin contained in apples limits how much fat your cells can absorb. (SWEET!) Plus it's a naturally soluble fiber, which is always good. So next time you feel all snacky, grab whichever apple looks best to you (we love Fujis!).

Hungry for More?

Check out Hungry Girl: Recipes and Survival Strategies for Guilt-Free Eating in the Real World. The book's a New York Times Best Seller, and it's packed with 165 super-easy and delicious recipes, survival guides for eating out, and so much more!For a daily dose of guilt-free tips, tricks, food finds, recipes and more, visit hungry-girl.com and sign up for free daily emails!"

Tough Tuesday

2008-09-02T14:43:00.000-07:00

Today I did a really good strength workout - Jari Love's Ripped 1000 (a toughie!). I was really proud of myself because I was not in the mood to work out today, but I selected a tough workout and did it.

My calorie goal was 1500 which is always a little tough, but I did well. I had a protein shake for breakfast, a grilled cheese and vegetarian "bacon" sandwich for lunch (with a side of Cheez-Its), a peach, a fudge pop and for dinner I had some shrimp creole (leftovers from a meal I cooked over the weekend). Total calories for the day: 1580

Speaking of fudge pops, can I just say THANK GOODNESS for them? The ones I buy are only 80 calories each and they are intensely chocolate. They really save me from going totally off the deep end. Chocolate is probably one of my biggest weaknesses and something I constantly crave, so having a low cal chocolate fix is really a lifesaver.

My other big weakness is cheese, but cheese is pretty easy to incorporate into my regular meals without it causing excess calorie issues.

Thumbs Up

2008-09-01T05:23:00.001-07:00

I haven't been here in awhile - just been busy and haven't felt like posting, but I am happy to report that I have been doing well on the program, especially this past week. This past Monday I made a commitment to myself to really be diligent. I have a big motivator. On October 24th we are leaving for a 10 day vacation to our favorite place, Tulum (Mexico) and I want to get rid of all the weight I gained over the past few months by then so I can walk around in my bathing suit with PRIDE. I know I can do it (or come close) if I am really diligent on the program. (The photo in this post is one I took the last time we were in Tulum....ahhhhhhhh....)

The thing about this program is IT WORKS if I stick to it. I know this for a fact because the times I have really stuck with it, the weight and inches have fallen off pretty quickly.

This past week (Monday - Sunday) I was near perfect on the diet (only 150 calories over for the entire week which I intend to rectify today by deducting 150 from my allowance) and I was 100% perfect with the exercise.

I am going to weigh-in every 10 days. My first weigh-in is this Thursday and my goal is a loss of 6 pounds. After that, my goal will be a 4 pound loss every 10 days.

Sunday Slacker

2008-08-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

Sunday was a rest day so no exercise. My calorie goal was 1400 but I went totally off the wagon. I was just ravenous and had no willpower whatsoever. So I decided the way to rectify this situation is to make yesterday a splurge day and sacrifice my spluge day this week. So this week's splurge day will be subsituted with a 1400 calorie day so it will all even out.

Overall, though, I did pretty well this past week with 5 days of solid exercise and I was right on dietary program for 6 out of the 7 days. I haven't weighed myself (I am going to try to limit that to once a month if possible) but there's definitely a noticeable change in the way a particular pair of dress pants are fitting. They were snug last week and this morning when I put them on they were feeling a little loose.

So all in all, I am pleased with my progress!

Saturday Success

2008-08-16T17:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday was another good day for me. It was a scheduled rest day, but it was such a gorgeous day, hubby and me decided to go to a local park and walk . We walked about 3 miles so I certainly got some serious exercise in!

My calorie goal was 1800 and I did well. I had a protein shake for breakfast, some watermelon for a snack, a small fish sandwich for lunch, 2 Klondike bars and for dinner we had a BBQ. I had a veggie burger on 1 slice of bread with cheese, 1 corn on the cob with a dab of butter and a very small helping of mashed potatoes. Total calories just a little over 1800.

I'll tell you...there is nothing better in the summer than a perfectly ripe seedless watermelon and corn on the cob. Mm Mm good!

Fabulous Friday

2008-08-15T12:18:00.000-07:00

Friday was a fairly easy day because it was my splurge day. For me, the diet part of this program is the most challenging. Working out isn't that bad, although of course it's been a little more challenging lately only because I am getting reaclimated.

Anyway, I didn't really feel like working out, but I forced myself. I rebounded while watching WHFN's Steamin' Cardio.

My diet was completely out the window but that's what splurge days are for! Pizza, ice cream, a nice dinner out! All those things I dream about on those dreaded low-cal days.

Successful Thursday

2008-08-15T03:26:00.000-07:00

Thursday was a good day on the program and I was proud of myself because I REALLLLY felt like overdoing the calories (esp. after dinner), but I didn't. I think knowing that today (Friday) is my "spluge day" was enough to keep me on the ball.

I didn't feel like working out, but I mustered up enough motivation to do Michelle Dozois' Your Best Body Circuit. It felt a little more difficult to me than usual this time but I got through it. I rebounded during the cardio segments because I enjoy rebounding better than standard cardio.

My calorie goal was 1500 and I was right on target. I had a homemade Egg McMuffin for breakfast, a pita pizza topped with chopped veggies for lunch, a cup of chopped watermelon for snack (yum!) and I made a nice dinner of baked/breaded tilapia (used panko bread crumbs and fresh herbs in the breading which made it extra good), corn on the cob and a side of broccoli and carrots. My total was 1525 for the day.

Worn Down Wednesday

2008-08-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

I decided to make Wednesday a rest day for a couple of reasons. First, I WAY overdid it on Tuesday. Not only did I do a workout in the morning, I also spent a few hours at work moving my office to a new office. I didn't move the furniture (I had a handyman do that for me), but I had to move boxes, computer equipment, files, as well as decorate, hang pictures, set up my computer, etc. In addition to that, I had to organize my old office (which is now a therapy room) and assist the handyman with organizing a third office that we had to borrow some furniture from.

I was so wiped out when I went home Tuesday night, I ate dinner and then crashed on the couch. I woke up Wednesday morning still feeling a little wrung out. I contemplated working out but decided against it because a real estate showing was planned and I needed to get a bunch of housework done in the morning so the house would be "show ready". So, although I didn't do formal exercise, I did do a lot of activity yesterday morning and felt like I got a workout!

It was a 1400 calorie day, so that was a challenge. I did well, though. I had a protein shake for breakfast, a grilled cheese sandwich for lunch and some pasta with marinara sauce and cheese for dinner. That's came to about 1385 calories. I definitely felt like eating more but I was able to exercise restraint.

Trying Hard to Stay on the Path

2008-08-13T04:20:00.001-07:00

I've been doing pretty well the last few days, although I just haven't had time to blog. As far as exercise goes, I've been doing great. Last week I only missed one workout and that was only because I felt wrung out and like my body needed a rest, so I worked out 5 days of the week. As for the diet, I didn't do so great over the weekend, but otherwise, I did well the rest of the week.

Thinking back to last week, my biggest challenge was dealing with ravenous hunger. I am not talking about just WANTING to eat. I am talking about stomaching-growling hunger. I think my body is still in calorie reduction shock and it's rebelling. That's why I had a hard time sticking with my calorie levels every day last week.

I am going easy on myself because I realize there is a re-adjustment period and therefore I am cutting myself some slack. I am keeping in mind that I am moving into the right direction. The workout schedule is back on track and I am being conscious about trying my hardest to stick to the calorie plans.

Monday the goals were 2000 calories and strength training. For my workout I did FitPrime's "From the Ground Up" (one of my favorites). I had a shake for breakfast, pita pizza topped with veggies for lunch (plus a cup of soda), a couple popsicles for a snack and for dinner I had pierogies with steamed broccoli and fried onions. My total calories were right at 2000.

Yesterday was a 1500 calorie day, which was challenging, but I did well. I had a homemade egg McMuffin for breakfast, a veggie burger topped with fried mushrooms and onions for lunch, some cherries for a snack and for dinner I had some spaghetti with marinara sauce and the rest of the leftover baked eggplant I made last week. NO junk food yesterday. My total calories were about 1550. My workout yesterday was FitPrime's "GForce2" (a rebounding workout).

Thursday

2008-08-08T02:57:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a fairly easy day. It was a rest day, so no exercise. And it was a 2000 calorie day so I could splurge a little. I had a shake for breakfast, a pita pizza with baked eggplant for lunch and I had a crazy dinner...a bunch of junk like peanut butter and crackers and popsicles. Don't ask. I was just craving that stuff. My body is still in adjustment mode so it's been a challenge this week.

Toughing it out

2008-08-07T09:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a successful day for me. I did a really great strength training workout in the morning - FitPrime's "From the Ground Up". My calorie level was 1400 yesterday, which of course was a challenge, but I did well. For breakfast I had a protein shake. At lunch I had some leftover filling from the stuffed peppers I had made the night before (which I made from quinoa, veggies and a little cheese). I also had a handful of cherries (yum!). For dinner I made baked eggplant and had it along with side of pasta and marinara sauce. I had a single-sized fudgsicle for dessert. My total calories for the day was 1440 so pretty good!

My period is over today so I hesitantly got on the scale. I am ashamed to tell you this, but I am going to tell you for the sake of keeping myself honest...over the last 6 months I have gained back 20 pounds of the weight I had lost when I got down to my lowest weight on this program. Isn't it amazing how easily it piles back on if you are not diligent? Well, truthfully I was beyond not diligent. I was off the deep end, so that's the reason. Anyway, I am hoping that being really diligent on the program will get me back to my old level of progress and then move forward from there.

Rough Going

2008-08-06T08:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was really rough going, diet-wise. I hadn't intended Tuesday to be my "splurge day" but I decided to use my splurge day yesterday because I was simply FAMISHED all day. I think my body is going into shock with this calorie reduction because even after I ate lunch, I was starving. On the way home from work, I was so hungry, I actually started to feel dizzy. This is ridiculous! So I listened to my body changed my splurge day from Saturday to Tuesday. There's really nothing going on this weekend, so it won't be a problem to make that change. I think easing myself back into the lower calories is the way to go. I have to give myself a chance to readjust.

I did a good workout yesterday. It was a cardio day, so I rebounded while watching WHFN's "Fast Cheetah" and did the ab section at the end. So all-in-all it was a good day. It's just a little hard this week readjusting. Oh, and getting back into regular workouts is a little rough too. I never totally stopped working out - but I definitely have not been as diligent the last few months and I haven't worked out at all the last couple weeks (although we did a lot of bike riding and some walking during our vacation). So getting back into it has been rough because the workouts feel harder and I feel a little sore.

It's amazing how if you don't use it, you lose it and QUICKLY!

Coming out from under my rock...

2008-08-04T15:51:00.000-07:00

Well, I am coming out from under my rock and showing my face again. I am ashamed to say that the past few months have not been good for me on my program and much of the progress I made has reversed itself. First, it was school. I was so consumed by it - and by writing that damned masters thesis, that the stress of it derailed me until the very end when I graduated in May (yes, I did get my masters and graduated with straight As, so there are 2 good things that came out of my fall off the wagon!)

After school ended, my intention was to get seriously back on the wagon, but around that time another stressful situation arose...we decided to put our house on the market. This wasn't just a decision, it was a major stress-fest undertaking because we then had to get the house ready for sale which involved all kinds of projects. Anyway, once the house was all straightened out and on the market, we were gearing up for a week-long vacation (which we just got back from yesterday), so to summarize, it's been non-stop stress and lack of discipline for months now. I feel so badly about sliding backwards like I did, but the good news is that I am seriously back on the wagon today.

Talk about a shock to the system! I woke up and dragged my butt into our workout room to do my first workout in over 2 weeks. I decided to choose a relatively easy workout and did WHFN's Metaboost. I really enjoy this workout and it doesn't FRY me like some of the others in my collection.

My calorie goal was 1800 today which was manageable. For breakfast I had a protein shake. For lunch I made a grilled cheese sandwich and had a few cherries afterwards. For dinner I made vegetarian stuffed peppers (which turned out FABULOUSLY!) and then had some popsicles afterwards to satisfy my sweet tooth. My total calories were right at 1800.

Now I just have to concentrate really hard on keeping my focus and moving forward with my results and keeping a positive frame of mind.

Going Strong

2008-05-30T04:18:00.000-07:00

Well, I haven't posted in awhile but have no fear! I have actually been doing really well on the program. I just haven't felt like writing in here - I've been busy with spring cleaning and gardening and just haven't felt like blogging much.

While I haven't been writing in here, I have following the program diligently, especially this past week and I feel like I have snapped back into it again. It took awhile, but finally I am there. I am still following the same calorie plan as usual - 1400, 1400, 1500, 1500, 2000, 2000, 3000 and working out about 5 days/week. This week alone I have dropped 4 pounds and I can feel my clothes fitting a little more loosely.

I still find the low cal days to be a challenge. 1400 and 1500 calories just aren't enough for me and evenings are particularly difficult. But whenever I feel really challenged I just remind myself that doing the 1400's and 1500's allows me to have those 3 higher cal days and still lose weight. So it's worth it. It's just hard.

The stress of school is now behind me and that has helped me to regain some focus on this program, but a new stress has entered my life - we are seriously considering selling our house and relocating to a more affordable area. That opens up a whole 'nother can of stress worms but I am trying not to get myself too psychologically worked up over it.

Sickly Sunday

2008-05-18T16:25:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been a bit under the weather the last couple of days and as a result, I have not been up for exercising or calorie counting. The good news is, I haven't really been off the wagon that badly (i.e. going haywire)...I simply have not had the energy or wherewithall to be diligent on the program.

Today I was feeling a little better so I did manage to track my calories. I didn't do a formal workout, but I was very active today...I did a LOT of housework - decluttering and reorganizing. Major spring cleaning.

Today's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast: Protein shake (300)

Lunch: Vegetarian pizza "burger" with fried onions and mozzarella cheese on whole wheat bread (452)

Junk: Ice Cream Cone (348), Doritos (300)

No calories left for dinner.

Total Calories: 1400

Thursday

2008-05-16T03:33:00.000-07:00

Still going strong, although I must say it really is challenging this week. On top of everything else I've already mentioned, I have been a little under the weather all week fighting off some minor cold. It started with a sore throat earlier in the week and has progressed to a head cold. Thankfully it seems to be staying on the mild side, but it's just enough to zap my energy reserves.

As a result, I felt pretty run down yesterday and didn't do a workout. I just didn't feel up for it.

My calorie goal was 1400 and I stayed pretty close to goal.

Breakfast: granola bar (150), grapes and strawberries (150)

Lunch: vegetarian "pizzasteak" with fried onions (455) and some Doritos (140)

Dinner: Pita pizza topped with red peppers, onion and veggie "chicken" (535)

Total Calories: 1430

Workin' Hard

2008-05-15T03:19:00.000-07:00

It's been really hard getting back into the program but I have been good with it so far. There are several reasons it is particularly challenging this week.

1. After eating so much on the cruise for 7 days straight, not to mentioned having been off the wagon prior to that for some time, my body still thinks it's in feeding frenzy mode is wants to eat, eat, eat!

2. Coming back to work has been nothing short of a pile of stress. I am backlogged with e-mails, voice mails and a foot-high pile of mail to get through...all of which generate more work.

3. I got my period on Monday so I have been PMS-ing.

4. I am a little under the weather (probably brought on my the aforementioned stress).

Despite all this, however, I am DETERMINED to stay on the ball because I am so disgusted with how far backward I have slid.

My workout goal for Wednesday was cardio. Because a beautiful weather forecast was planned, I decided to save my workout for lunchtime and at lunch I took a nice 50 minute power walk wearing my IPod.

My calorie goal was 2000 and it wasn't the healthiest eating day, but I did stay on track.

Breakfast: shake (300)

Lunch: breaded tilapia on Tuscan Pane bread with cheese and mustard and a small side of Doritos (720)

Dinner: junk! I had a big bowl of lite ice cream with malt and whipped cream and a pile of Oreos (don't ask. Just needed it). (1000)

Total Calories: 2020

Good to be back!

2008-05-14T04:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a real challenge but I did it! For my workout, I did Tom Holland's Total Body Workout and today I can really feel it in my thighs and butt - SORE!

My calorie goal was 1400 and MAN, talk about a challenge after having grown accustomed to the nonstop feeding frenzy cruise lifestyle.

Breakfast: protein shake (300)
Lunch: Breaded fish fillet sandwich in a tortilla wrap with cheese and mustard (530)
Dinner: Breaded tilapia, white rice and roasted green beans and peppers (502)
Treat: 10 small jelly beans (70)

Total Calories: 1402

Long Time No See

2008-05-13T08:18:00.000-07:00

Well, I've REALLY been off the wagon since you last heard from me, I am sorry to say. I just wasn't able to get totally back on board until every aspect of school was completely over and right after that, we headed off for a 7 day cruise, which is essentially a 7-day feeding frenzy. I have really backtracked on my weight loss and have gained a bit back which I am a bit disgusted about. But would I take back the fun I had getting to this point? Nope. When it's all said and done, it was worth it. But now I am definitely paying the price.

We got back from the cruise 2 days ago. Yesterday I spent the day doing laundry, grocery shopping, downloading photos and generally getting things back in order and today is my first day back to work and back on the program. I decided I really need to get back into blogging regularly to keep myself accountable, so here I am.

So here are my goals for this week (my week is going to run Tues - Mon).

Tuesday, May 13: strength & 1400

Wed., May 14: cardio, 2000

Thurs, May 15: strenth & 1400

Fri., May 16: cardio & 1400

Sat., May 17: gym (strength, yoga and swim) & 3000

Sun., May 18: rest & 2000

Mon., May 19: strength & 1400

And now some happy news to report...all my hard work with school paid off. I am graduating with straight A's and my master thesis was approved "with distinction"! So I guess that makes my backward slide worth it.

Oh, and I should point out that I exercised every day on the cruise. On the 3 sea days I went to the gym and did a full strength and cardio workout. On the other days I swam every day and one day in port, we walked about 3 miles. So there was no shortage of exercise, but sadly exercise is not enough to control weight.

P.S. The photo above is me on the cruise dressed up for the first formal night.

Back on Track

2008-04-09T04:13:00.000-07:00

Well, it felt good to be back on track again. Psychologically, I really think I am finally there now.

For my workout, I rebounded while watching The Firm: Ultimate Calorie Blaster.

My calorie goal was 1400.

Breakfast: Protein shake (300)
Lunch: Bean and cheese burrito with salsa (336)
Dinner: 2 slices of veggie pizza (800)

Total Calories: 1436

Back on Track

2008-04-08T06:42:00.001-07:00

Sorry I haven't checked in in awhile, but things have been a little hectic again and I've been having a hard time concentrating.

Mostly what has been taking up my concentration is finalizing my masters thesis. My advisor and I have been going back and forth for the last month or so and these past few days I have been working to get that thing finalized and approved. The good news is....yesterday I submitted my final revisions and he sent me a message saying my project is approved "with distinction"! So I am taking that to mean it's considered above average. To say I am relieved and happy is an understatement. This project has been the equivalent of carrying around a 100 pound weight on my shoulders and now it has been lifted!!! The only thing remaining as far as that project goes is that I have to give a 10 minute presentation (along with some other students who are finishing up their masters) on the 22nd. No big deal. I just hope I can put together a decent, fairly comprehensive summary in 10 minutes. It's a 50 page paper!

Another huge relief occurred just yesterday. My advisor is also the professor who teaches the class I am taking. He said he took a look at my paper (which I recently finished and put up on a web site) and he says it looks "great". So I think I can safely say that that project is now officially behind me.

As for the diet and exercise, I have to admit it has not been good the past few days. I've only been about 50% compliant with the exercise (yes, I know that is unusual for me) and the diet has been out the window. HOWEVER, today is a new day and psychologically, I am feeling like my life is regaining some semblance of normality and there's definitely a big reduction in stress now, so I am really going to try to be back on track.

Thursday

2008-04-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

Today's workout goal was strength training. After standing in front of my video cabinet for 5 minutes not feeling like doing any of the workouts, I finally selected The Firm: Tortoise which is one of the older Firms - and a really good one. I rebounded through the corny "ballroom aerobics" sections, though. I just can't stomach that cheesiness first thing in the morning.

I had to move some calorie values around this month so today's calorie allotment was 2000.

Breakfast: the usual chocolate banana protein shake (300)

Lunch: out to lunch with co-workers for Thai food. 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (200), 3 pieces of fried tofu with dipping sauce (126), tilapia with sweet sauce with a side of about 1.5 cups white rice (508)

Treat: Ben & Jerry's ice cream in a waffle cone (900)

No Dinner

Total Calories: 2034

(I calculated all these values using Calorie King and I think they are fairly good estimates).

Spring Fashions

2008-04-02T15:17:00.001-07:00

Well, I was a bit short on sleep today so I was not feeling up to exercising. I intended to take a walk in the afternoon and even though I didn't really feel like it, I put my sneakers on and forced myself to go out for my walk. It was too windy and chilly though, so I lasted all of 10 minutes and then decided to duck inside at the local university to read for awhile. (I can handle cold, but not wind).

Today was a 1400 calorie day and a bit of a challenge, but I made it through okay, although admittedly, my "dinner" wasn't the healthiest.

Breakfast: the usual shake (300)

Lunch: Veggie burger with fried onions, peppers and mushrooms on Tuscan Pane bread, topped with cheddar and ketchup (410). Small amount of corn chips (130).

Dinner: 2 candy bars (560) (craving cave-in)

Total Calories: 1400

Now some happy news to report...I switched my winter clothing over to my summer clothing today and in doing so, tried on all my clothes to see exactly what fits (I have clothing in so many different sizes it is ridiculous). I was very happy to discover that a lot of clothes that did not fit me last spring now fit me, and some are even loose! A couple of these articles of clothing are things that I really love and wore several years ago but haven't fit me for a long time. I refused to get rid of these things and I was determined to keep them and eventually fit into them again and now I do! For example, I have this brown linen fitted blazer that is particularly stylish and in a size 10. The last time I remember wearing it is around 1999. It's a classic style, though, so it's still very wearable and I love it. Well, after all these years of sitting in my closet, it finally fits me again!

I was able to filter out a lot of too-big clothes. Also, I tried on my formal wear again to see what will fit me for the cruise (coming up in 1 month!) and many of my dressy clothes fit really nicely now. There will be no shortage of nice things to wear on the cruise. AND as if this was not enough to float my boat today, I tried my entire bathing suit collection (yes, it IS a collection) and most of them fit nice and I actually feel that I look pretty decent in them (not WOW - knock out! or anything, but not HIDE UNDER A ROCK either).

The only bad thing about the change in size is that often I have to say goodbye to some articles of clothing that I really like. Guess you gotta take the bad with the good, right? Gives me an excuse to go out and buy more new clothes.

Speaking of which, I have been meaning to mention that I recently discovered another new favorite clothing store - Loehmann's. I had been sent a coupon for $25 off a purchase of $50 or more, so I couldn't pass up on that deal. I went to check the place out. Well, I really like it! It reminds me a bit of Stein Mart...high quality, stylish clothes. I think the clothes at Loehmann's are a little more stylish than Stein Mart's....by stylish I mean fashion-designer, not teeny-bopper trendy.

So get this. For 30 some dollars, I got a GOWN (didn't need it but loved the color and style - it's light turquoise green which is one of my favorite colors) and a really stylin' pair of spring sandals! Both were on clearance plus I had that coupon, so what a deal! The gown is a Juniors 13 and is too tight but I imagine it's possible it will fit me in time for the cruise - it seems like it will fit me when I lose another 10 pounds. If not, I know I will be able to wear it on the next cruise. (By the way, the photo I posted is not the actual gown I bought, but it's similar).

I have to warn you, though, that generally speaking Loehmann's is not cheap. They are a discounter, but they discount higher-end designer label stuff, so for example, a shirt might be $30-$50 (which is probably cheap for designer stuff, but much more than I normally spend).

It's funny, though. Now that I am getting thinner, I don't feel as hesitant about spending more on clothing. I guess it's because I think I actually look decent in clothing now, so it doesn't seem wasteful to buy nice things. Does that make sense?

Speaking of fashions, WHAT IS UP with the maternity look this season? Man, some of these fashion trends just gotta go. Yes, pregnant women look good in maternity tops, but if you're not pregnant, it's probably best to steer clear of maternity-inspired clothing. I mean does any woman really want to outfit herself in clothes that make her look FATTER?

Oh, and also....the PRINTS this year - UGH!!! The Partridge Family on acid!!! I mean, if somebody PAID me to come up with the ugliest print in the ugliest color scheme imaginable, I don't think I could dream up anything more shiteous than what is in the stores this spring.

Terrific Tuesday

2008-04-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

My exercise goal today was strength training, so I pulled out an oldie but goodie - the original FitPrime Crunch Time. Man! I forgot how great this workout is. It's a total body strength training workout - with a couple cardio intervals thrown in - and it's really challenging but only 45 minutes long. Lots of compound exercises so a lot gets squeezed into a short time. The music is GREAT. I'd rate this workout as one of my all-time favorites.

My calorie goal was 2000 today which wasn't too difficult. (That's why I endure those 1400 days, so I can get some 2000 days!)

Breakfast: Homemade egg McMuffin: english muffin with 1 scrambled egg, 1 slice veggie "bacon" and a little cheddar cheese (290)

Lunch: Office birthday lunch for a coworker: 2 slices of pizza (800), 1 slice of birthday cake (475).

Dinner: breaded tilapia on 2 slices of whole wheat bread with a little cheddar and mustard (435)

Total Calories: 2000

Munchie Monday

2008-03-31T16:10:00.000-07:00

Today was a cardio day so I did Steamin' Cardio, although I rebounded through most of it. A lot of times I prefer rebounding to other forms of cardio, but I still like to go along with the video...it's more entertaining then just bouncing without the distraction of the video. Plus they usually do ab work at the end and when it gets to that part, I will get off the rebounder and go along with the video.

Today was a 1400 calorie day and it was a bit of a struggle for me but I did well with calories, although I will admit it was not the healthiest diet today. Not a vegetable to be found, although I guess we can say the banana in the protein shake is healthy and so are the peanuts in the peanut butter (I know, I am stretching).

Breakfast: chocolate banana protein shake with malt (300)

Lunch: Egg noodles with a little butter and grated cheese (526)

Treat: 2 palm fulls of jelly beans (300 - estimate)

Dinner: Toasted English muffin with 1 1/2 tbs peanut butter (270)

Total Calories: 1396

Successful Sunday

2008-03-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

Well, today was a 2000 calorie day so it was fairly bearable as far as the diet goes.

For my workout, I decided to go to the gym again. I just didn't feel like doing a workout video. So I went to the gym and did 40 minutes of cardio (alternating walking/running, rebounding and elliptical) followed by about 35 minutes of strength training.

Breakfast: English muffin topped with 2 scrambled eggs, 2 slices of vegetarian "bacon", and some cheddar, plus 1 cup of orange juice. (585)

Lunch: 2 bowls of Golden Grahams cereal with skim milk (700) (For some reason I was craving Golden Grahams today - my favorite junk cereal).

Treat: 4 Oreos (260)

Dinner: My favorite salad (spring greens, walnuts, pears, low-fat feta cheese and oil and vinegar dressing) (515)

Total Calories: 2060

A Good Start

2008-03-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

I had a really good start back on the program and I really am going to seriously try to stay on track.

I went to the gym today and did 40 minutes of cardio (alternating the elliptical machine with walking and running around the track), followed by yoga class (1 hour) and then 15 minutes of swimming. After that, I took a nice soak in the jacuzzi. It felt great, but wasn't as hot as I like it. I really like it at around 104 degrees and it was about 100 today (those 4 degrees make a big difference in how great it feels and how well it relaxes me and works the kinks out). The jets are really strong in this jacuzzi and there is NOTHING better than sliding down into that jacuzzi and putting my shoulders and neck right up against those jets. Oh man, paradise!!!

My calorie goal today was 1400 and I was right on track (which is always hard on these super low-cal days).

Breakfast: the usual chocolate banana protein shake (300)

Lunch: baked red bliss potatoes topped with sauteed onions and poblano peppers and cheddar cheese (578)

Dinner: Breaded tilapia, roasted green beans, egg noodles with a little butter and parmesan (522)

Total Calories: 1400

By the way, this is the first time I prepared green beans this way and MAN! DEEEEEEELICIOUS!!!! I don't think I've ever tasted green beans this delicious. They get all brown and carmelized and yummy. Here's the recipe if you want to give it a try:

ROASTED GREEN BEANS

Trim the tips off some fresh green beans

Toss them in a bowl with a tiny bit of olive oil (just enough to give them a light sheen)

Sprinkle some kosher (coarse) salt on them and toss.

Spread them out in a single layer on a cookie shake

Bake at 425 degrees for about 30 minutes, turning the beans with a spatula every 10 minutes or so to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.

When the beans are nicely browned, tender and carmelized, remove from oven and serve. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Goals for the next 7 days

2008-03-29T03:49:00.001-07:00

Saturday March 29
Exercise: Gym: Cardio, Yoga & Swimming
Calories: 1400

Sunday, March 30
Exercise: Strength (a.m.) and walk (afternoon)
Calories: 2000

Monday, March 31
Exercise: Cardio
Calories: 1400

Tuesday, April 1
Exercise: Strength
Calories: 2000

Wednesday, April 2
Exercise: 1 hour walk (afternoon)
Calories: 1400

Thursday, April 3
Exercise: Strength
Calories: 3000

Friday, April 4
Exercise: Rest
Calories: 1400

Back again...

2008-03-28T12:45:00.000-07:00

Well, as you can probably guess, it's not been a good couple weeks for me on the program, hence my absence from this blog. I've been totally preoccupied with school and all the related stress. I thought most of it would die down, and a large part of it did when I finished the draft of my masters, but there is still some lingering stuff. First of all, I've had some back-and-forths with my advisor about my thesis and that is requiring a little more attention to that project (although for the most part it is done), and then, I had to move on to the paper for the class I am taking. Even though that's not a huge paper like the masters thesis, still....it's enough to stress me out and make me feel overwhelmed. Whenever I feel that way, it's very hard for me to concentrate on the everyday stuff, especially diet. As usual, I have been pretty good with the exercise...I've only missed a couple scheduled days of exercise. But the diet has pretty much been out the window the last couple weeks and I am starting to feel the results of that.

I will say it again, though...there really IS a light at the end of the tunnel. No matter what happens, I am completely done with school at the end of April (and I do mean completely, since I graduate!) so there will be no more school stress. Even better, I finished the paper for my class yesterday and I am not going to drive myself crazy any more with it. So really, most of the heavy school stress is behind me now and I am trying to transition myself psychologically back to being gung-ho about the program. It's really important right now because spring is coming, our cruise is coming in early May and I really want to make some serious progress before I go on that feeding frenzy of a vacation, not to mention it would be nice to feel extra good in my bathing suits and cruisewear.

Today I did Michelle Dozois' Your Best Body Circuit and I also took a 30-40 minute power walk at lunch time. I decided I am going to try to squeeze in extra exercise during the week at lunch time by taking a walk, whenever the weather permits. That'll help me reach my goals faster and undo some of the results of the slacking over the past month.

I took a couple days off from work this week (mostly to do school work) and I made it to the gym on Wednesday. It was really nice because the pool was the PERFECT temperature (i.e. not cold at all) and the jacuzzi was nice and HOT HOT HOT. I really needed that jacuzzi on Wednesday. Those hot jets felt so good on my neck and shoulders (that's where I hold tension). I felt like melted butter when I got out of there.

As for the diet, I am doing low cal today and so far, so good. I am going to make up a schedule for the next 10 days or so so I can really do my best to get back on the wagon.

Anyway, it does feel good to be back.

Tuesday

2008-03-18T13:38:00.001-07:00

I'm sorry to say I've been a little off the wagon the last couple days, but not super bad. I have been sticking to the workouts every day, though.

Tuesday's Exercise Goal: Cardio

This morning I did GForce 2 (rebounder workout). I was proud of myself because I was completely and totally NOT in the mood to work out this morning and I literally dragged myself into the workout room to do my workout.

I also wanted to comment that recently, I've really noticed an impressive change in a part of my physique - my shoulders are really looking pretty darned good (if I do say so myself). They have really become defined and have a toned, broad look to them which I think looks so great. All those shoulder presses are paying off, I guess. I can't wait to wear my tank tops this summer.

Tuesday's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:

The usual chocolate banana protein shake with malt (no PB2) 300

Lunch:

A big bowl of Turkey Hill lite ice cream topped with whipped cream (I know, not a healthy lunch but it's what I wanted!) (614)

Dinner:

Bean, veggie and shrimp burrito with cheese (486)

Total Calories: 1400

Scumptious Saturday

2008-03-16T10:52:00.001-07:00

Saturday's Exercise Goal: Yoga

I decided I felt like going to the gym on Saturday so I went to Bally's and took the yoga class - something I haven't done in awhile. Prior to that, I did 40 minutes of cardio, alternating running/walking with elliptical machine and rebounding. What I did was, I was listening to my IPod and I would do one activity for an entire song and then move to the next activity. Kept things interesting.

Saturday's Calorie Goal: Splurge Day

I had a great splurge day! The highlights were pizza for lunch and for dinner we went out for Thai (my favorite). I always order pad thai, even though I am always tempted to try other things. I just love pad thai so much.

An interesting thing about the gym....I weighed myself on the scale there and it says I am about 7 pounds lighter than my scale at home. Both scales are digital, although the one at the gym is a large, stand-up scale, whereas my scale at home is a small floor model. I am not sure which one is accurate but there is a huge difference between them. (I hope the gym scale is the accurate one!)

I also have an exciting announcement. I finished my masters thesis this weekend. Or, I should say, I finished the revisions (I had already finished the draft a couple weeks ago). I have already decided that this is it...I am not changing it further, so I hope my advisor will be happy with it (he already said it was very good but suggested a couple changes which I made). So that's a big load of stress off my shoulder. I still have another paper to write for the class I am taking so now I really have to turn my attention to that, but I hope to have that done in the next couple of weeks.

Fantastic Friday

2008-03-14T12:35:00.000-07:00

Friday's Exercise Goal: Strength

I did a LOT of exercise today. First of all, I decided I felt like doing strength and yoga, so I did a short Firm workout - Super Charged Sculpting - followed by Crunch Candlelight Yoga. Both together were about an hour and 10 minutes.

Later, at work, the colleague who got me into figure skating invited me to go to the rink with her. Since it was a light day work-wise and I had my skates with me, I decided to go. I skated for a full hour. It was great to be back at the rink. I really haven't been going much lately, mostly because my work schedule is crazy with me working a late shift 2 days a week.

Friday's Calorie Goal: 2000

Breakfast:
Protein shake sans malt (300)
Lunch (I was RAVENOUS today):
3 moderate/small slices of pizza (1050), 2 magic cookie bars (estimate 400), 1 small piece of single-layer birthday cake (estimate 250), 1/2 cup ice cream (150).
No Dinner

Total Calories: 2150

Well, I went over on the calories, but I figure, since I did an extra workout today, I can probably afford a little extra calories. I think an hour of figure skating burns off at LEAST 15o calories, don't you think?

We had a farewell party at work today for 2 employees, hence the big lunch and goodies. One of my evil coworkers brought in magic cookie bars! OMG these are the most deadly delicious things on the planet!!! It took every ounce of control I had to limit myself to a couple small squares. I literally could have eaten the entire plate.
I also am happy to report that I got on the scale this morning and I am down about 3 pounds in the past couple weeks, so my being back on the wagon appears to be paying off.

Thumbelina Thursday

2008-03-13T12:10:00.000-07:00

Thought you'd like to see a clip of my new favorite workout!!! Watch it and you'll get motivated (probably to throw up your lunch ;)

Thursday's Exercise Goal: Cardio

This morning I did The Firm: Ultimate Calorie Blaster and I rebounded through through about half of it.

Thursday's Calorie Goal: 2000

Breakfast: My usual shake, sans the PB2 (300)
Lunch: Bean and veggie burrito with cheese, fresh cilantro and salsa (490)
Dinner: A big bowl of my favorite ice cream (Turkey Hill Chocolate Nutty Moose Tracks) topped with whipped cream and homemade oatmeal cookies! (I know, what a "meal"!!! I had a serious sugar craving today). (1210)

Thursday's Total Calories: 2000

Wild Wednesday

2008-03-12T11:12:00.000-07:00

Wednesday Exercise Goal: Strength

I did my favorite today: Michelle Dozois' Your Best Body Circuit. Damn, that is a great workout!!! I love it more and more each time I do it.

Wednesday's Calorie Goal: 1400

1400 calorie days are rough, but I did really well today.

Breakfast:
The Usual Shake (sans PB2 today) (300)
Lunch:
Pizza bagel (433)
Dinner:
Bean, cheese and veggie burrito with fresh cilantro and salsa (460)
Treat:
4 Nestle Treasures Chocolates (213)

Total Calories: 1406

I am particularly proud of myself for having some serious self-control last night. I had my dinner fairly early (5:00 p.m.) because I have class on Tuesdays and I have to eat dinner before I leave the office. By the time I got home from school (9:00 p.m.) I was really hungry AND I had a headache and was feeling upset from a documentary we watched in class (Holocaust). I had already used up my calories for the day and I don't really have a lot of latitude the rest of this month to move calorie values around, so I maintained self control and didn't eat anything. That was tough but I did it.

Tempting Tuesday

2008-03-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

I am calling today "Tempting Tuesday" because it was tempting to throw in the towel today. School issues are driving me crazy again, but I am trying to keep my cool.

Tuesday's Exercise Goal: Cardio

Unfortunately, I overslept today (due to the clocks changing on Sunday and I don't use an alarm clock) and I couldn't exercise at lunch today because I had school work to do, so I missed my workout.

Tuesday's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:

Shake (320)

Lunch:

Pasta with marinara sauce and grated cheese (645)

Dinner:

Veggie burger on whole wheat with fried onions and mushrooms, cheese and ketchup (452)

Total Calories: 1417

So despite not having a workout today, I did well with the diet so all is not lost.

Monday Monday

2008-03-11T10:26:00.000-07:00

Monday's Exercise Goal: Strength Training

Today I did Tom Holland's Total Body Workout. Always a goodie when I am a little short on time (it's only 45 minutes).

Monday's Calorie Goal: Splurge Day

I had a dinner out with my brother today so it had to be a splurge day. We had a delicious meal at an Indian restaurant. Very, very tasty!!!

Sunday

2008-03-09T16:01:00.000-07:00

Sunday's Exercise Goal: Rest

No exercise today. It was good to have a break, especially since we were out late last night AND the clocks moved ahead. My sleep is all screwed up.

Sunday's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:

1 slice of toasted whole wheat bread with 1 tbs. of peanut butter and 1 tbs. jam (235)

Lunch:

Ravioli with marinara sauce and grated parmesan (554)

Dinner:

Baked red bliss potatoes topped with sauteed onions, butter and cheese (646)

Total Calories: 1435

Saturday Splurgin'

2008-03-09T15:58:00.000-07:00

Saturday's Exercise Goal: Strength

I decided to do FitPrime's Strong Bear, which I haven't done in awhile. I forgot how great this workout is. It's really one of my all-time favorites.

Calorie Goal: 3000 (splurge day)

No calorie counting today - hurray! Cookies for breakfast (oh yeah!), and a big cheese hoagie for lunch/dinner with chips and a soda. In the evening we went out with friends and I didn't eat anything (the hoagie held me over) but I did have a couple cocktails.

Fabulous Friday

2008-03-08T02:58:00.000-08:00

Friday's Exercise Goal: Cardio

I decided to do GForce (rebounding workout) on Friday. It's probably one of my favorite cardio workouts (and you know I am not a fan of cardio).

Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast: The usual protein shake (320)

Lunch: Veggie burger on whole wheat with sauteed onions & mushrooms, cheese and ketchup (500)

Treat: Sour patch kids (candy) 300

Dinner: Vegetarian "bacon" and cheese omelet (280)

Total Calories: 1400

Thursday Success

2008-03-06T15:21:00.001-08:00

Thursday's Exercise Goal: Strength Training

Today I did two workouts. First I did The Firm: Supercharged Sculpting which was about 30 minutes. Then I did Yoga Mind and Body which, I think, was about 40 minutes. I was really craving yoga this morning but didn't want to sacrifice my strength training, so voila! I did both.

It's been a LONG time since I did Yoga Mind & Body. It's one of the videos I've owned the longest...probably 10 years. This is probably the most beautifully produced workout video ever produced. It was filmed at White Sands National Park and it is visually stunning. It has this surreal, mesmerizing quality to it and the music is very cool. It's not a beginner's yoga workout, though. There are some challenging postures in this workout.

Thursday's Calorie Goal: 1400

14o0 days are tough, but I did it!

Breakfast:

Shake (320)

Lunch:

Quinoa with peppers, onions, garlic and basil, topped with 2 tbs. grated cheese (490)

Dinner:

Pita pizza topped with onion, mushroom and vegetarian "sausage" and extra cheese (590)

Total Calories: 1400

Today I bit the bullet and got on the scale, something I haven't done in probably a month or so. The bad news is (not surpringly) I've gained some weight back over the past month or so of being on and off the diet wagon (mostly off). The good news is, it's not THAT much - about 4 pounds - which I can easily drop fairly quickly now that I am back on track. My goal is to lose those 4 pounds plus a little more by April 1st. That's put me back to moving forward with my progress.

Well-Done Wednesday

2008-03-05T09:13:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Exercise Goal: Cardio

I decided to do housework today instead of my cardio workout. The house was in dire need of attention, so I cleaned for a couple hours... vacuuming, putting laundry away, cleaning the kitchen, dusting, etc. Not sure if it amounted to a regular workout, but I definitely wasn't a slug.

Wednesday's Calorie Goal: 2000

Breakfast:
Chocolate protein shake (320)
Lunch:
1 slice of Tuscan Pane bread topped with 2 scrambled eggs, 1 vegetarian "sausage" patty and a little cheese (420)
Treat:
Candy (600)
Dinner:
Quinoa with sauteed peppers, onions & garlic, fresh basil and topped with 2 tbs parmesan cheese (660)

Total Calories: 2000

Terrific Tuesday

2008-03-04T03:22:00.000-08:00

Exercise Goal: Strength

Today I decided to do Jari Love's Ripped 1000. Haven't done that one in awhile! Great (and tough) workout.

Calorie Goal: 2000

Breakfast:
Protein Shake (320)
Lunch:
Pasta with brussel sprouts and walnuts (640)
Dinner:
2 slices of pizza (850)
Treat:
handful of jelly beans (140)

Total Calories: 1950

Back on the Wagon (again!)

2008-03-04T02:58:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm back again and I have good news and bad news. Which do you want first?

Let's start with the bad news. You guessed it. I haven't been really sticking to the diet the past week, even though I told you I was back on the wagon. I did make a good start and really was making a gung-ho effort, but again, I was derailed by the stress I have been under with school and I blew it.

Now, the good news. I finished the first draft of my masters thesis this past weekend and sent it off to my advisor. So I am just awaiting his feedback. Hopefully he will not want me to make major revisions - keep your fingers crossed. So the masters is pretty much done.

Now I just have one more paper to write for the class I am taking, but that is just a regular paper, not a huge monstrocity like the masters. I can probably knock it out within a couple weekends at the library. I intend to get right on it and get it over with so I can really put this stress behind me.

The other bit of good news is that although I haven't been great with the diet, I have been right on the ball with my exercise. I think I worked out 5 days last week. So really, I've been only half off the ball. But let's face it, while exercise is essential and very effective for toning and supporting weight loss, the diet is critical for weight loss. I've always been an avid exerciser, even at my highest weight, but never lost anything (in fact I gained!) until I incorporated diet.

So yesterday I started in earnest again.

Exercise Goal: Cardio

I did The Firm's Ultimate Calorie Blaster. Still rebounded through some of it, but I actually did the step aerobics for more of it this time. I think the thing with step aerobics that repels me at times is that sometimes the choreography gets too complex and I get confused about what step I am supposed to be doing. But I have noticed that the more I do this video, the more I remember and now it's becoming more fun and I am getting lost less frequently. I also realize that it's probably good to do step once in awhile because it's keeping my brain on its toes and is mentally challenging (which they say is good as you age). I still maintain, though, that rebounding is the best cardio workout. It's fun, fun, fun, it really gets my heartrate up, it's easy on the joints, it's great for the endocrine system and jumping is also good for the bones.

Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:

The usual chocolate protein shake with malt (320)

Lunch:

Breaded tilapia sandwich on whole wheat bread with a little cheddar cheese and mustard (430)

Dinner:

My favorite salad (greens, feta cheese, chopped pear, walnuts with oil & vinegar dressing) (650)

Total Calories: 1400

Tuesday

2008-02-27T03:58:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's Exercise Goal: Cardio

I was going to go ice skating on Tuesday, but just wasn't in the mood for it. So instead, I did a cardio workout at home - The Firm: Ultimate Calorie Blaster. As usual, I rebounded through a lot of it.

My diet was right on track today, calorie-wise, although not the healthiest eating day.

Tuesday's Calorie Goal: 2000

Breakfast:

Shake (320)

Lunch:

A bunch of candy (I know, not healthy but at least I counted the calories!) (880)

Dinner:

2 slices of pizza (skipped the soda since I had so much sugar at lunch) (800)

Total Calories: 2000

First Day Back

2008-02-26T02:29:00.000-08:00

Monday's Exercise Goal: Strength Training

I did really well on my first day back on the wagon. For my workout, I did Michelle Dozois' Your Best Body Circuit - always a goodie (and a toughie!).

Monday's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:
Chocolate protein shake with malt (320)
Lunch:
Vegetarian "chicken" sandwich on bagel with cheese and salsa (460)
Dinner:
Breaded tilapia and pasta with brussel sprouts and walnuts and 2 tbs of grated cheese (650)

Calorie Total: 1430

It was a little tough being a 1400 calorie day, but I did it!

Making another effort!

2008-02-24T14:58:00.000-08:00

I've been feeling so depressed over tossing the calorie counting aside, I am going to try to make another go of it and get myself back on track this week, despite my previous post about not being able to handle the calorie counting. I spent some time today getting the house more organized and getting the fridge cleaned out...things to reduce the feeling of chaos in my life that is adding to my sense of internal chaos. So I've made out a plan for this week:

Monday: strength training & 1400
Tuesday: Cardio (Ice skating) & 2000
Wednesday: Cardio & 1400
Thursday: Strength training & 2000
Friday: Cardio & 1400
Saturday: Strength training & 3000
Sunday: rest & 1400

I am starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I've been making great progress on my thesis and would estimate it's about 70% written at this point. I just have a couple more major sections to write and I anticipate getting that completed next weekend. Then I have to hand it in for my advisor to review and he will suggest revisions, etc. (please God don't let there be many) and then when that project is finished, I can start on the other paper for my class. That one won't be anywhere near as involved as the thesis...I can probably knock it out over a couple weekends.

By the end of April I'll be done with all of this!

Throwing in the towel (sort of...)

2008-02-20T16:07:00.000-08:00

Well, I think the time has come to be completely honest with myself. I just don't think I can manage doing this program in a disciplined way right now. I've been fighting against it and trying to keep plodding along and I've been doing fine with my exercise, but the diet is just completely untenable right now.

The thing that's going on is that I am knee deep in my masters thesis and also taking my last masters class and it's stressing me the hell out. It's consuming every bit of my mental energy and focus and I just can't seem to divert any of that focus to this program. I am trying to be conscious about the quantity of what I am eating...I start every day writing down my calories, and every day my goal is to be on track, but I just can't seem to keep on track - the stress and mental distraction is fouling me up big time.

So here is my commitment. I am going to continue to exercise every day and continue to be conscious of the general quantity of what I am eating and really try not to go off the deep end with the diet. I am also going to weigh myself a couple times a week as a monitoring system to prevent myself from going too far off the deep end. But I just cannot mentally handle the calorie counting, weighing, measuring, obsessive food preparation right now. It's just too much.

Okay, so there. I've admitted my temporary defeat. My other commitment to you is that I will try to get onto this blog regularly and report what's going on, so I am still somewhat on the program. But I just can't do the calorie stuff right now.

The light at the end of the tunnel is that I expect to have the draft of my masters thesis done within the next week to two and once that is done, I am immediately going to plow into the big paper/project I have to do for my class. I am not going to procrastinate like I usually do because I need to get these projects done so I can get my focus back onto this program.

Thanks for listening...

Munchie Monday

2008-02-19T04:36:00.000-08:00

Today's Calorie Goal: 1500

Changed to: 2000

I had a major chocolate breakdown today, so I decided to swap today's calorie allotment for tomorrow's.

Breakfast:

The usual chocolate protein shake (320)

Snack:

Dove chocolates (420)

Lunch:

Shrimp and black bean burrito with cheese and salsa (445)

Snack:

More chocolates! (420)

"Dinner"

Granola bars (300)

2 cookies (130)

Total Calories: 2035

Not the healthiest eating day, but with the calorie switch I didn't go off the wagon too much.

Today's Exercise Goal: Strength Training

Today I did Michelle Dozois' Your Best Body Circuit - such a great workout!!!

Plan for the rest of the month

2008-02-17T15:08:00.000-08:00

Here is my plan for the rest of February:

Monday, 2/18: strength training, 1500 calories
Tuesday, 2/19: Cardio, 2000 calories
Wednesday, 2/20: Strength Training, 1400 calories
Thursday, 2/21: Cardio (ice skating), 1500 calories
Friday, 2/22: Strength training, 1400 calories
Saturday, 2/23: Yoga & Swimming, 3000 calories
Sunday, 2/24: Rest, 1500 calories
Monday, 2/25: Strength training, 1400 calories
Tuesday, 2/26: Cardio, 2000 calories
Wednesday, 2/27: Strength training, 1400 calories
Thursday, 2/28: Cardio, 1500 calories
Friday, 2/29: Strength training, 1400 calories

Back from the dead

2008-02-17T14:57:00.000-08:00

Well, as you can probably guess, I have been off the program the last few days. I've been completely consumed with school work and have just had the hardest time staying focused on this program. It's never out of my mind completely and always in the back of my mind is that nagging voice asking me "what the heck are you doing!!???"

Today I managed to get back on track for the most part, although I didn't exercise. I set my calorie goal low today to make up for the past few days.

Today's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:
The usual protein shake (350)
Lunch:
Veggie burger with fried oninons on whole wheat bread with cheese and salsa (522)
Dinner:
Veggie, shrimp & black bean tacos with cheese and salsa (576)

Today's Calorie Total: 1448

Terrific Tuesday

2008-02-12T07:04:00.000-08:00

Today's Exercise Goal: Cardio

This morning I did The Firm's Ultimate Calorie Blaster. I rebounded through about 75% of it. I'm not big into step aerobics so I'd do a little step and then when I got tired of it (or aggravated by it), I'd jump on the rebounder. I also tacked on some ab work at the end.

Today's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:

Chocolate banana PB protein shake with malt (350)

Lunch:

Pita Pizza (460)

Dinner:

Vegetarian "cheesesteak" (2 vegetarian burgers sliced up and fried with onions, with cheese in a wrap with ketchup (570)

Treat:

A couple gumballs (20)

Total Calories: 1400

Mahvelous Monday

2008-02-12T06:47:00.000-08:00

Today's Exercise Goal: Strength Training

I was a little short on time this morning, so I did a 45-minute workout - Cathe's Push Pull. I'm not a big Cathe fan (I usually find her workouts a little boring with too much rep overkill), but this is a very efficient total body strength workout for the short time, so I like having it handy for days when I don't have a full hour.

Today's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:

The usual chocolate peanut butter banana protein shake with malt (350)

Lunch:

Vegetarian "chicken" patty sandwich on a bagel with cheese and salsa (530)

Dinner:

Scambled eggs and vegetarian "bacon" on wheat bread with cheese (500)

Treat:

A couple gumballs (20)

Total Calories: 1400

An Inspiring Story

2008-02-11T07:41:00.001-08:00

Here is a spot that was on theToday Show this morning that is very inspiring about a family who teamed up together and lost 500 pounds! Inspired by the show, The Biggest Loser, this family decided to create their own weight loss program (called F.A.S.T. "Families Always Succeed Together") in which they followed these simple rules:

1. Log everything you eat.
2. Meet and weigh in once per week.
3. Exercise every day.
4. Report to each other when you are tempted to cheat.

The thing that really made for their success was having the support system of each other - having people to be accountable to and people who are encouraging and supporting each other.

I realized in watching this that essentially this is what dlvblueyed (my sister-in-law) and me have been doing through these blogs. We've been logging everything we eat, we "meet" regularly on-line through comments on each others' blogs and we weigh in regularly and post our results. We exercise almost every day. The only step that we haven't been doing is reporting when we are tempted to cheat, but I can see how that would be a useful technique to stay on track.

Fantastic Friday

2008-02-08T11:04:00.000-08:00

Today's Exercise Goal: Strength Training

I decided to do my new favorite workout again today, Michelle Dozois' Your Best Body Circuit.

Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:
The usual shake (350)
Lunch:
Veggie burger with fried onions on a bagel with cheddar, mustard and ketchup (492)
Treats:
Peppermint Patties (93)
2 jelly beans (20)
Dinner:
Pita pizza (460)

Total Calories: 1415

This morning I decided to try on some clothes just to see how things are fitting me. First, I tried on the black beaded cocktail dress I wore to the gala back in November. I was very pleased to see that it now fits me VERY comfortably (hangs a tiny bit loose off my body) whereas back in November when I wore it to the gala it was very tight (I even wore a "girdle" to help myself squeeze into it). So that seems to indicate progress.

I also tried on that red satin dress that I bought a few months ago just to see how that's fitting now and it also fits comfortably now. It's not too tight at all.

And then I tried on my wedding dress. Still nowhere NEAR fitting. Actually, I have to say it's kinda shocking how far I am from fitting into that gown. But I don't let it get to me.

So overall, I am happy with the way things are going and still feeling really positive and committed, even though I had that slip up yesterday.

Thump on the head Thursday

2008-02-08T10:54:00.000-08:00

Today's Exercise Goal: Cardio

I decided that since the weather wasn't too cold, I would do my workout outdoors. I took a 40 minute power walk alternating with some jogging.

Today's Calorie Goal: 2000

Breakfast:

The usual chocolate peanut butter banana protein shake with malt (350)

1 Quaker "Oatmeal to Go" bar (220)

Lunch:

Pizza bagel (420)

Treat:

Peppermint Patties (420)

Dinner:

Tortilla chips sprinkled with cheddar and heated (590)

So as of this point, I was right on target with my calories and had used up my allotment. Unfortunately I had a moment of weakness after dinner and plowed into a bunch of homemade chocolate chip cookies that I had in the freezer. I just NEEDED them really badly (that's my only explanation)....I don't even know how many calories they were.

Unfortunately, I can't rectify this by switching days because I already have a special occasion planned for my high-cal day that can't be switched. Oh well. I'll have to accept the slip-up and just move forward.

Cruisin...

2008-02-06T14:22:00.000-08:00

Today's Exercise Goal: Strength Training

I decided to do Michelle Dozois' Your Best Body Circuit again. Love this workout! In fact, I would say it is close to perfection as far as workouts go. Fun, challenging, decent music, strength + cardio, about an hour long, lots of variety, no rep overkill. I feel totally worked out after this one.

Today's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:
The usual shake (350)
Lunch:
A Quaker "Oatmeal to Go" bar (220)
Pretzels (80)
Treats:
Peppermint Patties (187)
Jelly Beans (150)
Dinner:
Bean and vegetable burrito with salsa and cheddar (412)

Total Calories for Today: 1399

I think being back on the wagon fully is starting to pay off because I've noticed in the last week the compliments have been starting up again. I must have dropped some weight this past week. 3 times over the past week I have received comments on looking "skinny" (which always makes me smile 'cause I am far from "skinny", but still!)

I feel completely motivated now and on the ball with my program. I think I am finally over the stress about my masters thesis because I really am making good progress on it now and have a clear plan for getting it done, plus now that we have that cruise coming up in May, I have a really tangible goal. I'd LOVE to look smashing, trim and fit for that trip. I might just have to buy myself a sexy cocktail dress for formal night and hmmmm....maybe a new sexy bathing suit! We shall see.

Skating Away...

2008-02-05T03:53:00.000-08:00

Today's Exercise Goal: Cardio

Today I took a break from the home workouts and went ice skating at lunchtime. It felt so good to be back at the rink. I was going every week for awhile but fell out of it before the holidays and then my schedule just never seemed to be able to accommodate a skating session. Anyway, I skated for over an hour and it was FUN FUN FUN!

Today's Calorie Goal: 2000

Breakfast:

The usual chocolate peanut butter banana protein shake with malt (350)

Lunch:

Vegetarian "bacon" "cheeseburger" on a bagel with fried onions, cheddar, mustard and ketchup (437)

Dinner:

2 slices of pizza and a can of Coke (1000)

Treat:

Quaker "Oatmeal to Go" bar (220)

Total Calories: 2007

Monday

2008-02-04T13:21:00.000-08:00

Today's Exercise Goal: Strength Training

I tried another new workout this morning: The Firm's Aerobic Body Shaping from the Transfirmer series. I really like this one! It is almost an hour long and just the right level of intensity. I also like that it has cardio and strength training together which is always my favorite. I am also happy with the music in the Transfirmer series, although the modern/industrial set leaves something to be desired.

Today's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:

Chocolate peanut butter banana protein shake with malt (350)

Lunch:

Bean and veggie burrito with cheddar and salsa (412)

Treats:

3 small Peppermint Patties (140)

"Dinner":

Chai tea with whipped cream (200)

Rice cakes (120)

Quaker "Oatmeal on the Go" bar (220)

Total Calories: 1442

Sleepy Sunday

2008-02-03T17:50:00.001-08:00

Today was a pretty low-keyed day. As I mentioned, I slept late which was nice (and much needed!) It was a rest day, so no exercise today.

Today's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast (which I ate at lunch time):
Scambled egg sandwich on Tuscan Pane bread with vegetarian "bacon" and cheese (590)

Treats:
Peppermint Patties (140) & Jelly Beans (170)

Dinner:
Kashi Go-Lean Crunch cereal with skim milk (500)

Total Calories: 1400

Skating Saturday

2008-02-03T08:21:00.000-08:00

Saturday was my "splurge day" which is always a welcomed relief after calorie counting all week. I ate a lot of good stuff and didn't weigh, measure or write down a damned thing!!!

For my workout, I went to the gym and took the yoga class. I was going to do some cardio and swim too, but decided against it because I was feeling a bit tired. I hadn't gotten a full night's sleep the night before so I just wasn't feeling that energetic.

We went out with some friends later in the evening and after dinner went ice skating together, so that was some more activity. It felt good to be on the ice. I haven't had a chance to go ice skating in over a month and a half (just how things have worked out) but I have been meaning to get back into it again. In fact, this Tuesday and I going back to the usual rink I skate at once every week or two.

I had a strange sensation of deja vu at the ice rink. It was loaded with teenagers and there was a DJ playing the music. I felt like I was back at the roller skating rink of my youth which was my favorite haunt every weekend back then.

Today shouldn't be too difficult because it's a rest day, but also, I just woke up and it's 11:30 a.m. (we were out LATE last night) so I really only need to eat 2 meals today - lunch and dinner.

Here's the plan for the coming week:

Monday: Strength training, 1400

Tuesday: Cardio (ice skating), 2000

Wednesday: Strength, 1400

Thursday: Cardio, 2000

Friday: Strength, 1400

Saturday: Yoga & Swimming, 3000

Sunday: Rest, 1400

Oh, and here is something that is SURE to keep me motivated. Hubby and me just planned a cruise in May to celebrate our anniversary and my impending graduation from graduate school. So if anything can keep me on the wagon, the incentive of looking (and feeling) smashing in my bathing suits and cocktail gowns should do it.

TGIF!

2008-02-01T11:54:00.000-08:00

Today's Exercise Goal: strength training

I did another Firm workout this morning - Super Charged Sculpting - also from the Transfirmer system. It was a good workout, even though it was only 35 minutes long. I really prefer longer workouts - at least 45 minutes or preferably an hour. At any rate, it was a pretty challenging workout considering its short length, and I enjoyed it. This will be a good workout to have on hand when I need to do strength training but am short on time (like on mornings when I oversleep).

Today's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:

Chocolate banana protein shake with added malt and PB2 (350)

Lunch:

Whole wheat pita pizza topped with vegetarian "sausage" and onions (516)

Treat:

3 small Peppermint Patties (140)

Dinner:

Black bean and veggie burrito with cheese and salsa (412)

Total Calories: 1418

Thursday

2008-01-31T11:02:00.000-08:00

This morning I tried a new workout - The Firm: Ultimate Calorie Blaster (part of the Body Scuplting System 4 "Transfirmer" series). It was mostly floor and step aerobics which, as I have told you, are not my favorite, so I rebounded through a lot of it.

Calorie Goal: 2000

Breakfast:

The usual chocolate peanut butter banana protein shake with malt (350)

Lunch:

We had a catered luncheon at work today so I enjoyed a large meal (calorie values are an estimate): mozzarella and roasted pepper sandwich on a roll with lettuce, tomato and mustard (700), side salad with a couple tablespoons of dressing (200), 4 medium cookies and a small brownie (500), 1 cup Coke (120)

Dinner:

1 large apple (100)

Total Calories: 1970

Sleepy Wednesday

2008-01-30T08:47:00.000-08:00

Today was a tough day because I was tired and unmotivated. I had class last night and whenever I have class, I have a hard time getting to sleep afterwards because my mind is so revved up. I try to sleep later the next morning, but I am one of these people whose body has an internal alarm clock which wakes me up automatically at the same time each morning, regardless of how late I went to sleep the night before. I never use an alarm clock - that's how reliable my internal alarm is.

So anyway, despite the sleep deficit, I dragged my sorry butt into my workout room and did a tough workout this morning - The Firm: Super Sculpting. Don't ask me why I chose a tough workout like this instead of an easy one - I guess now that I am back on the wagon, I really felt like challenging myself.

Today's Calorie Goal: 1400

Breakfast:

The usual chocolate-peanut butter - banana protein shake with add-ins: malt and PB2 (350)

Snacks:

I needed sweets today so I didn't eat a normal lunch. I indulged on Peppermint Patties, jelly beans and mini caramel rice cakes (645). Sounds like a lot, but believe me 645 calories of goodies doesn't amount to that much, volume-wise.

Dinner:

bean & vegetable burrito (I pretty much used this recipe but left out the shrimp and added sauteed veggies instead) (412).

Today's Calorie Total: 1407

Totally Tuesday

2008-01-28T16:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I made it through my first day back on the wagon and today, my second day, went well too. This morning I did a rebounding workout - GForce 2 which I always enjoy. It's about 45 minutes of rebounding with a little ab work thrown in at the end. I did well with my calories today too:

Today's Calorie Goal: 2000

Breakfast:

Chocolate banana peanut butter protein shake with malt! (350)

Lunch:

Veggie "burger" with fried onions, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, mustard and ketchup on a sesame bagel (470)

Treats:

2 small York Peppermint Patties (94) and a piece of birthday cake (500). (We had a celebration of January birthdays at work today).

Dinner:

Pasta with marinara sauce (with sauteed veggies), topped with grated cheese (590)

Total Calories: 2004

Good to be Back!

2008-01-28T08:04:00.000-08:00

I must say – it felt really good to be back on the wagon again. I realized that a much as I enjoy eating with abandon and not counting calories, there is most certainly a price to pay for it – namely weight gain and anxiety over weight gain. While I haven’t gotten on the scale, I know I have gained some weight back because I can feel it in the way my clothes fit and also the way my face looks (the double chin coming back :0). So I am just going to forget about the scale and tape measure right now and just focus on BEING FOCUSED on what I am supposed to be doing. Most importantly, I am not going to let the stress over school and my aggravating job derail me.

How will I accomplish this? The main thing is...I am going to try to get my school work done EARLY…yes, there is a concept…so that the days of it looming over me like a big, black cloud are shortened. My original goal was to get my masters thesis finished by May and today I decided I am not going to wait that long. At this point, about 80% of my research is done so I am going to work diligently to finish up the research over the next 2 weeks and then I am going to spend a week or two writing my paper. And then, I will have my advisor review it and I am sure there will be revisions to make, but in any event….I am hoping by the end of March to have it finished.

Then, I can direct the rest of my school focus to the class I am taking and get the work done for that class (we have a big paper to write, plus weekly reading and writing assignments).

Today I did one of my new favorite workouts – Michelle Dozois’ Your Best Body Circuit. I got this workout for Christmas and I think I’ve done it 3 times so far and I really like it a lot – in fact, I like it more and more each time I do it. It’s fun like the old Firms in that it moves quickly from exercise to exercise (i.e. not a lot of rep overkill which gets on my nerves), the music is good and I like that it has cardio intervals interspersed with strength - I feel really worked out afterwards. I also like that it’s at a higher level of intensity – probably most suitable for solid intermediate exercisers and higher. I wouldn’t recommend it to a beginner – it’s a bit intense. Definitely a keeper.

My calorie allotment was 1400 today. I had a shake for breakfast with some PB2 and malt added in – extra yummy! (350). For lunch I had a vegetarian “chicken” sandwich on a bagel with a little cheddar, yellow mustard, lettuce and tomato (480). Afterwards, I had a small York Peppermint Patty (47). For dinner I had a large apple (100) followed by tortilla chips heated with a little cheddar (430). Total calories today: 1407. Pretty good!

I'm BAAAAACK

2008-01-27T13:35:00.000-08:00

Yep, I've been off the wagon again the past few days, I am ashamed to admit. I just have not been able to focus on the program at all, although it is in the back of my mind at all times. Now I just have to get it in the FRONT of my mind and get back on the ball again.

I did work out a few days this week, so it wasn't a total disaster.

Anyway, I am determined that I must get back on track so here is my plan for the week:

Monday: 1400, Strength
Tuesday: 2000, Cardio
Wednesday: 1400, Strength
Thursday: 2000, Cardio
Friday: 1400, Strength
Saturday: 3000, Skating
Sunday: 1400, Rest

(Notice I changed my calorie values from 1400, 1400, 1500, 1500, 1800, 2000, 3000 to the above. Same weekly total - just allocated them a little differently so I can have more enjoyable high-cal days).

Tuesday

2008-01-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's Goals

Exercise: Cardio

Calories: 1800

Tuesday's Accomplishments

Exercise: Cardio

Calories: 1807

Today was a good day on the program and since it was an 1800 calorie day, it wasn't that challenging, diet-wise.

For my workout, I rebounded while watching TLT's Core Cardio workout. They do floor aerobics in this workout, but I prefer rebounding instead (more fun!). Watching workout videos while rebounding makes the rebounding workout more fun and makes the time fly by - especially when the music is good.

For breakfast I had 1 small banana oatmeal muffin (92) and 2 delicious, ripe Bosc pears (150) - my new favorite fruit. Since this breakfast was primarily carbs it didn't hold me over that long so I had 2 small crackers for a snack (35). For lunch I made a vegetarian "cheesesteak" with fried onions. It came out really well. What I did was I sliced up 2 veggie burgers into strips and fried them with sliced onions in a little oil, just like a Philly cheeseteak. I had it on flatbread with a little cheddar and ketchup (550). For dinner I treated myself to 2 small slices of pizza and a coke (750) and had a Milky Way Dark bar for a treat (230). Pretty tasty eatins' today.

Monday

2008-01-22T02:16:00.000-08:00

Monday's Goals
Exercise: Strength
Calories: 1200

Monday's Accomplishments
Exercise: Strength
Calories: 1200

Well, it was a tough day but I did it!

For my strength workout I did Cathe Friedrich's Push Pull, which is a challenging 50-minute workout.

For breakfast I had a shake (320) followed by a small banana oatmeal muffin (I baked yesterday) (75). I made a pita pizza for lunch, topped with mushrooms, onion, lite feta and lite mozzarella (415). That left 390 for dinner and all I felt like having was corn chips, so I had 390 calories worth (I know, not healthy and not that satisfying either).

Back in the Ring

2008-01-21T03:54:00.000-08:00

Sunday's Goals

Exercise: Rest

Calories: 1500

Sunday's Accomplishments

Exercise: Rest

Calories: 1497

Sunday was a rest day but I did do one activity - hubby and me went bowling in the evening. I wouldn't really count that as substantial exercise, but it was something.

I am happy to report I was firmly back on the wagon with my diet. I had a shake for breakfast and I added a little bit of malt to it to make it a chocolate malt (320) - it was extra tasty that way. We had a christening to go to and afterwards there was a luncheon at my friend's house, but after looking at the food and realizing the only thing I could eat was potato salad and potato chips, I decided to have a box of Juicy Juice (100) and wait until I got home to eat lunch. For lunch I had 2 vegetarian chili dogs with cheddar cheese on whole wheat bread (505). After lunch I treated myself to some frozen yogurt sprinkled with malt and topped with a little whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles (282). For dinner I had a slice of whole wheat bread topped with 2 scrambled eggs and a sprinkling of cheese (290).

It was a little challenging to be eating low-cal again after my week of decadence but I did okay. One thing that helps me a lot is that I usually retire early so that cuts out a lot of potential eating time.

Now today is going to be a real challenge at 1200 calories. Oh my.

The Plan of Action

2008-01-20T03:30:00.000-08:00

Okay, I am psychologically and physically BACK beginning today.

Yesterday I couldn't really diet - as I mentioned my family had a birthday party for me so it wasn't feasible. I did go to the gym yesterday and did about 35-40 minutes of cardio (walking and jogging around the track alternated with the elliptical machine) followed by a 1-hour yoga class. I contemplated swimming afterwards but decided to head over to the library to get more research done (I am working on my masters thesis).

Including today, there are 12 days left in January so I have mapped out a plan for what's left of this month. I've lowered calorie values for most days to compensate for the damage I have done this past week (I normally would never go as low as 1200 calories). I don't expect to end up with any positive results in January, but if I am able to follow this plan, there is a chance I can undo the damage I have done, plus POSSIBLY make progress, so we shall see. I am not banking on it, but I am going to see what I can do. I am not going to get worked up over it. So here's my plan for today through the end of the month:

1/20 - Rest & 1500
1/21 - Strength & 1200
1/22 - Cardio & 1800
1/23 - Strength & 1200
1/24 - Cardio & 1500
1/25 - Strength & 1200
1/26 - Cardio & 3000
1/27 - Rest & 1200
1/28 - Strength & 1200
1/29 - Cardio & 1200
1/30 - Strength & 1200
1/31 - Cardio & 1200

Confession Time

2008-01-19T04:13:00.001-08:00

Well, I am hiding my face and am ashamed to say I have seriously fallen off the diet wagon this past week. I tried and tried to get back on, but I just couldn't do it.

You're probably wondering why. Well, I've been home on vacation all week working on my masters project and there is something about this endeavor that just psychologically messes with me. I don't know if it is anxiety or stress over worrying whether I can actually do it well, or get it done (I've been procrastinating with this project for a long time) or WHAT. My eating has been total crap this past week and I am sure I have gained some weight back.

That's the bad news. There are a couple good things to report.

First, I have NOT stopped exercising. I have worked out pretty consistently all week, maybe missing 1 or 2 days max. I've been to the gym and I've done some workouts at home too. So I haven't be a TOTAL screw-up.

The other good thing to report is that I am ready to get fully back on the wagon. I actually feel psychologically excited about it and I am tired of being out of control and off the wagon. It will have to wait until tomorrow, though, because today is my birthday celebration with my family and because it's a pizza and cake affair, it's not feasible for this to be the day I get back on the wagon.

So tomorrow, Sunday - I will officially be back on the wagon. Mark my words. Hold me to it. You will see me here regularly again starting tomorrow.

Oh, and I decided I am not even going to do a February 1st weigh in an measurements. I just can't deal with it because I know it won't be good. So I am going to take that pressure off myself and shoot for a really positive weigh-in and measurement on March 1.

Checking In...

2008-01-15T03:16:00.000-08:00

Checking in...

I've been a little off the wagon the last couple days...mostly with diet. I am not sure what the problem is...I just felt the NEED and didn't seem to have the willpower for self-control.

Anyway, I did go to the gym on Sunday and did a really good workout - 30 minutes of cardio (walking/jogging around the track, rebounding and eliptical machine) followed by a serious strength workout on the Nautilus equipment and free weights (about 40 minutes). I intended to end my workout session with a swim but once again, the pool was too cold. So I soaked in the jacuzzi.

I am determined to be back on the wagon from this day forward through the rest of the month. I really want to end January with SOME positive result!!!

Scrumptious Saturday

2008-01-13T03:33:00.000-08:00

Saturday Goals

Exercise: Rest

Calories: 1400

Saturday Accomplishments

Exercise: Rest

Calories: 1410

Another successful day on the program. It wasn't too hard, even though it was a low-cal day. No exercise - it was a much-needed rest day.

For breakfast I used my new panini grill and made a delicious breakfast sandwich - scrambled eggs, vegetarian "bacon" and cheese on TJ's Tuscan Pane bread, grilled (600). That was a late breakfast and I really didn't get too hungry in the afternoon so I pretty much skipped lunch, except that I had a navel orange (60). That left a good number of calories for dinner and although I had planned to cook, I changed my mind because all I could think about was ice cream. I didn't want a little spoonful either. I wanted a nice bowl of it! So I made myself a nice-sized sundae with Turkey Hill Chocolatty Moose Tracks (lite) Ice Cream (my fave!), malt, whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles (750). HIT THE SPOT!

(Not the healthiest eating day but hey - I stayed within my calories without feeling deprived!)

Fun Friday

2008-01-12T09:29:00.000-08:00

Friday's Goals
Exercise: Strength
Calories: 3000 (splurge day)

Friday's Accomplishments
Exercise: Strength & Cardio
Calories: 3000 (estimate)

Ah, splurge day! The best day of the week.

I did Jari's Ripped 1000 workout in the morning which is an advanced strength & cardio interval workout. Always a good one.

Since it was a splurge day, I didn't track calories and I enjoyed every minute of it! We had a pizza party at work on Friday and we had a pot luck dinner at friends' in the evening, so it was an enjoyable eating day. Back t0 low-cal today (boo hoo).

Thursday

2008-01-10T14:32:00.000-08:00

Thursday's Goals

Exercise: Cardio

Calories: 1400

Thursday's Accomplishments

Exercise: Cardio

Calories: 1407

Today was a good day on the program, despite it being a low-cal day. I did WHFN's Fast Cheetah for my workout and rebounded through many of the floor aerobic segments.

I had steel cut oatmeal for breakfast again today with the same mix-ins as yesterday (walnuts, raisins, banana, PB2, cinnamon, butter) (475). For lunch I had a pita pizza topped with veggies (mushrooms, peppers & onions) (442). I was dying for chocolate today so I had 10 mini Dove chocolates (420). I tried to stop at 5 but it was impossible - damn those things are sooooo good. That didn't leave many calories, so I had an orange for dinner (70).

Wonderful Wednesday

2008-01-09T09:33:00.001-08:00

Wednesday's Goals
Exercise: Strength
Calories: 2000

Wednesday's Accomplishments
Exercise: Strength
Calories: 1975

For my workout today I did FitPrime's From the Ground Up. I forgot how much I like this one! I was proud of myself for working out today because I was feeling pretty sore this morning. Actually, I've been feeling a little sore the last couple days - I think it was the Tom Holland workout on Monday that did it. My inner thighs have been screaming. I am not sure why I sometimes get sore. At this point, with all the exercising I do, you wouldn't think I would have sore days, but I still do from time to time.

Today was a 2000 calorie day, so it wasn't too difficult to stay within my allotment. For breakfast I made steel cut oatmeal with walnuts, banana, cinnamon, raisins, Whey Low, a little brown sugar and a tiny bit of butter (475). For lunch I went out and had 2 slices of pizza and a can of Coke (1000). Afterwards I treated myself to some chocolate. I had 2 fun size bags of M&Ms (160) and a tiny piece of Dove chocolate (40). For dinner I had a shake (300).

Get out the shorts

2008-01-09T01:45:00.001-08:00

Tuesday's Goals

Exercise: Cardio (skating)

Calories: 1400

Tuesday's Accomplishments

Exercise: Cardio (walking/running)

Calories: 1412

Well, given that the weather was spring-like yesterday, I decided to forego the skating and exercise outdoors instead. I know - I don't like walking, but I do on January days that are in the 60's!

So I strapped on my IPod and spent my lunch hour doing alternating walking and jogging for about an hour. I walked/ran all over the U. Penn campus. I am getting to know that campus by heart at this point. The great news is that my fitness level has really shot up. Running is almost effortless for me now. I could probably run the entire time (or close to it) but I don't want to beat up my body that much (I know running is bad for the joints and feet) so I figure alternating running and walking will give my heart a nice workout.

My calories were just about on track too. I couldn't handle the 1200 level (although I intended t0) but I did stay just about to the original 1400 allotment. I had a shake for breakfast (300). For lunch I had a pita pizza which I topped with veggies (peppers, onions & mushrooms) (442). For dinner I had a breakfast sandwich - 2 scrambled eggs on Tuscan Pane bread with 1 slice of vegetarian "bacon" and a little cheddar (460). That would have been 1200, but I was DYING for something sweet so I had 5 miniature Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (210).

A good day!

Checking in...

2008-01-08T00:18:00.000-08:00

Sunday was a rest day and a splurge day, so no need to report everything that day except that I rested, and I splurged!

Yesterday (Monday) I did Tom Holland's Total Body Workout (such a great workout for when I am a little short on time...it's only 40 or 45 minutes long, but challenging, quick-moving and thorough). I fell off the wagon on my diet yesterday because I was just HUNGRY. I think part of the problem was that I went out to lunch with a coworker and we had Thai food. The problem with Thai (like most Asian cuisines) is that I am hungry 3 hours after I eat. So when I got home from work I was so hungry, my stomach was growling. I am not even sure how many calories I went over because I really couldn't count the Thai lunch accurately.

At any rate, my weeks are actually running Tuesday - Monday for this program for January (because January 1 was a Tuesday) so here is my plan for this week:

Tues: Cardio (skating) and 1400

Wed: Strength & 2000

Thurs: Cardio & 1400

Fri: Strength & 3000

Sat: Rest & 1400

Sun: Strength & 2000

Mon: Cardio & 1400

I am going to try to do 1200 calories on the 1400 calorie days (whenever possible) this week to make up for the couple days this week I was off the wagon with my diet. We'll see! 1200 is really difficult for me but really, I need to pay the piper.

Satisfactory Saturday

2008-01-06T02:15:00.000-08:00

Saturday's Goals

Exercise: Yoga & Swimming

Calories: 1400

Saturday's Accomplishments

Exercise: Yoga & Swimming

Calories: 1400

I had a very successful day on the program. Mama Leone and me met at the gym (something we haven't done in awhile) and did the usual yoga class followed by swimming and then a soak in the jacuzzi. The pool was perfect yesterday, however, the pool room was chilly which made us feel a little chilly in pool with the cool air blowing on our heads. We swam for about a half hour. It was great to do the yoga class again. The last time I had gone it was a different instructor. Mama Leone and me really love our regular instructor and feel so good after that class.

I had a shake for breakfast (300). For lunch we went out for pizza and I had 2 slices (800). I only had 300 calories left for dinner so I had a slice of Tuscan Pane bread, toasted, with 1 1/2 tbs of peanut butter and a little jelly (300).

All in all, a very good day.

Fit (but Falling off the Wagon) Friday

2008-01-05T04:15:00.000-08:00

Friday's Goals
Exercise: Strength
Calories: 1400

Friday's Accomplishments
Exercise: Strength
Calories: ???

I had an "off the wagon" day on Friday with my diet. I was good with my exercise...I did Cathe's Supersets in the morning (one I haven't done in awhile). I did fine with my diet until after lunch. I just really needed to eat candy for some reason and then it spiralled out of control for the rest of the day. This happens to me from time to time. The good news is, it doesn't happen that frequently anymore so when I get into this sense of desperation I just roll with it.

Unfortunately, my calendar won't permit me to move calorie days around this week as I have some social outings planned, but to be honest, I don't think 1 "off" day this month will derail me that much - I usually do end up with at least a couple "off" days (above and beyond my planned splurge days) each month. Look at December - I was off for about 9 days and I still got a good result, so I am not going to beat myself up too much. To be completely honest, it was worth it!

I did get 2 compliments yesterday. Friday is casual day at work and we usually wear jeans, so I was wearing one of my new pairs of (size 12) jeans. In the morning, hubby (in the funny Mr. T. voice that we sometimes tease each other with) said "lookin' mahhhhty fine in them jeans!" Then, at work, our receptionist (who was walking behind me down the hall) said, "you are really getting thin! Wow...it's really noticable when you wear jeans!" Love those kinds of comments!

Actually, before any of these compliments, when I was getting dressed on Friday I have to admit I was feeling really good about how those new jeans fit me. It's hard to describe, but I was having these flashback feelings to when I was a teenager and would slip into my designer jeans (I know I'm showing my age here) and how they just hugged my butt (and I was happy about it because my butt looked good). I am okay now with clothes hugging my butt because my butt doesn't feel huge to me anymore. In fact, all the working out has really done wonders for it! It sits high and is nice and firm and round (I know, I'm venturing into gross territory now). Anyway, I thought to myself, "all this work is really paying off." It is such a great feeling and worth every workout and every calorie calculation!

Thursday on the Ball

2008-01-03T17:22:00.000-08:00

Thursday's Goals
Exercise: Cardio
Calories: 2000

Thursday's Accomplishments
Exercise: Cardio
Calories: 2000

This morning I did my usual cardio workout of choice - a rebounding workout - GForce2. Actually, it's not the greatest workout (although I love rebounding) but I don't have many cardio workouts as I am not a big cardio lover. I do love to rebound, though!

My calories were right on target today, which wasn't difficult since it was a higher calorie day. I had a shake for breakfast (300). For lunch I went out for pizza and soda (1000). After lunch I had some jelly beans (200) and (gasp!) for dinner I had my favorite ice cream: Turkey Hill Chocolatty Moose Tracks with some whipped cream (500).

Not the healthiest diet today, but at least I stayed within my calorie allotment!

Wednesday

2008-01-02T17:28:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's Goals

Exercise: Strength

Calories: 1400

Wednesday's Accomplishments

Exercise: Strength

Calories: 1436

I had a really good day on the program today and ate a lot healthier than I have been recently.

For my workout, I did a new one - Michelle Dozois' Your Best Body Circuit. I really like this one! It's a mixture of cardio and strength intervals and for some of the strength exercises she uses a band (which is kinda fun). I'd rate this as an upper intermediate/advanced workout. Definitely for someone who's been working out for awhile.

For breakfast I had steel cut oatmeal. I mixed in a chopped banana, 1 tbs of PB2, cinnamon, brown sugar and a pat of butter (345). For lunch I had a pita pizza topped mushrooms, onions and tomatoes (419). I had a small amount of jelly beans after lunch to take the edge off my sweet tooth (70). For dinner I made breaded tilapia along with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables (brussel sprouts, carrots and cauliflower) (552). Afterwards I had a small biscotti (50).

I changed my calorie values a little. Instead of doing 1400, 1400, 1500, 1500, 1800, 2000, 3000, I decided to change it to 1400, 1400, 1400, 1400, 2000, 2000, 3000. Of course, I will mix them up for the zig-zag effect as much as I can. I just figured I can tolerate the 1400 calorie days to get another 2000 day in there. The total weekly calories are the same as before (12,600). We'll see how it goes.

New Year Napping

2008-01-01T18:35:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's Goals
Exercise: Rest
Calories: 1400

Tuesday's Accomplishments
Exercise: Rest
Calories: 1413

I deliberately scheduled my rest day for today knowing that I would be wiped out from all the New Year's Eve festivities. Today was a lost day of of basically napping on and off all day.

My diet was very odd too...I had a shake for breakfast (300) and ate the rest of my calories snacking all day on stuff like crackers and peanut butter, cookies, etc. I did keep track of the calories, though and wrote everything down. Not the healthiest diet today.

I am hoping to get back to some healthier eating choices tomorrow.

2008-01-01T10:33:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year!

Monday's Goals

Exercise: Cardio

Calories: 3000

Monday's Accomplishments

Exercise: Cardio

Calories: 3000 (estimate)

Well, I celebrated my hard-earned success on New Years Eve! It was splurge day and what a perfect day for it. We had a New Year's Eve Dance Party at our house and lots of good food - baked brie in pastry, roasted eggplant dip with crackers, homemade pizza and cookies. YUM!

For my execise I danced the night away. We had our dining room decked out as a full-blown disco (disco lights and all) - I must have danced for about 2-3 hours straight to 70's disco and 80's new wave (and of course hubby threw some rock into the mix as well). Lots of fun but boy am I feeling it today!

I was thinking about it today and I realized that over the past year, on months I have been fairly compliant on the program, my average weight loss has been 5-8 pounds. So continuing on with the program, if I really focus on being that compliant, I should be to goal by summer! Wow - how great it will be this year to enjoy putting on that bathing suit! And no more full-coverage suits. Once I reach goal, I am tossing those all away.

Oh Happy Day

2007-12-31T01:39:00.000-08:00

Well, I am extremely pleased to report both my end-of-month results and my end-of-year-results. Hold onto your seat!

DECEMBER END-OF-MONTH RESULTS:

Weight Lost: 4.6 lbs.

Inches Lost: 4.25 inches

Chest: 1/2 inch lost

Waist: 1 inch lost

Abs: 1 inch lost

Hips: 1/2 inch lost

Thigh: 3/4 inch lost

Arm: 1/2 inch lost

2007 END OF YEAR RESULTS

Weight Lost: 38 Pounds

Inches Lost: 28.34

Chest: 4.5 inches lost

Waist: 5.1 inches lost

Abs: 7.24 inches lost

Hips: 6 inches lost

Thigh: 3.5 inches lost

Arm: 2 inches lost

And now, for your entertainment (and for mine!)...before and after photos. The photos of me in the red top were taken at the start of the program on January 1, 2007 and the blue top were taken today. Sorry they're a little out of order. I can't seem to get this darned Blogger system to line them up as I would like.

So now I would like to make some end-of-year comments about this entire experience. First of all, to say I am happy about the results I have gotten this year would be an understatement. I am ecstatic! This is the first time I have EVER been able to stick to a program and really see it through to the point of getting serious results. The thing I am most happy about is that, in the big picture, all I really changed was cutting back on calories. I've always been an avid exerciser (although those before photos don't really show it with all the extra weight I was carrying) so that wasn't a change. I didn't give up ANY foods (and if you have read my blog, you know that is true). I regularly ate all the junk I love: ice cream, pizza, chocolate, cheese, cookies, etc. The only difference was, I ate these things in portions that fit into my daily calorie allotment, or I ate as much as I wanted of them on splurge days. The key is, though, I didn't give them up. And that's why I have been able to stick with this program.

I also was not on the program every single day of the year. I took three week-long vacations this year in which I did not follow the program at all (I have a rule - no dieting or formal exercise on vacations and I eat as much as I want). In addition to that, I would estimate there were about 5-6 other weeks of the year I was pretty much off the wagon (for various reasons). So to get the results I did with a compliance rate of about 70% for the year just astounds me!

Above all, I am just so happy about my December results. To actually have such a good weight loss during Christmas season, when normally I gain weight at this time of year, plus to lose inches on every measurement was truly a triumph!!!! If you could see me now, you would see that I am just beaming!!!

My goal for this coming year is to continue on the program as I have been. I am not so much concerned with the number on the scale, as far as a goal is concerned although I have a rough figure in mind. I am more concened with size. I am currently a size 12 and my final goal is an 8/10 (closer to an 8), to fit comfortably into my wedding gown and to be more fit than I was when I got married. I know I can reach this goal in 2008 and I hope you will follow along with me.

To all who are reading this, a very happy and healthy New Year and may you accomplish all the goals you set for yourself in 2008!

Satisfying Sunday

2007-12-30T11:26:00.000-08:00

Sunday's Goals
Exercise: Strength
Calories: 1200

Sunday's Accomplishments

Exercise: Strength, Cardio & Swimming

Calories: 1240

Well, this is my last day before my monthly (and annual!) weigh-in and measurements! My calories were only 40 calories over my allotment, although once again my food choices weren't perfectly healthy all day (that's okay...they don't need to be on this program). For breakfast I had an egg, cheese and vegetarian "bacon" sandwich on a slice of Tuscan Pane bread (422). For lunch I had pasta with marinara sauce and grated cheese (326) and then I just couldn't resist...I had another piece of that heavenly fudge truffle cheesecake (450) followed by one miniature Reese's Peanut Butter Cup (42). That was it for the calories so again, I had to skip dinner.

Speaking of the Fudge Truffle Cheesecake, my friend Carol sometimes sends me recipes that she has tried and that she thinks are outstanding. She gets her recipes on the AllRecipes web site. This particular cheesecake is truly to die for, so I am posting the recipe link here. I made this cheesecake for Christmas but there was a lot left over (it's a very large cheesecake and it's very rich so you can only eat a small piece at a time), so that's why I've been chipping away at it this week.

For my workout today I went to the gym again. I did 30 minutes of cardio, alternating between the elliptical machine, walking & running around the track and rebounding. Afterwards, I did about 50 minutes of strength training (free weights and Nautilus) and then I went to the pool. The pool was PERFECT today! I checked the thermometer and it was something like 90 degrees. I slid right into that pool today with no hesitation. It was wonderful. And as always, I ended my gym visit with a nice soak in the hot jacuzzi....ahhhhhhhhhh....I will sleep well tonight!