Can you believe 2009 is almost here?

The year has flown by! My kids are getting older and smarmier. Hubby and I are turning into old people, lol.

All in all I feel pretty decent about my progress. I haven't lost weight, but I haven't gained overall, either. I am more active and mae a better effort in keeping track of my eating and activity. 2009 will be different.

I joined SparkPeople. It's a community focused on fitness and nutrition that isn't intimidating. Food logs, day planners, journals, blogs, and SparkTeams are there to help you find encouragement, assistance, and give you a better idea of how you're doing. I'm wahminsc there if you'd like to say hi. I'm a member of a few SparkTeams - join me?

Exercise today: Turbo Jam Learn & Burn; yoga

Yep, 10:42 am and I've gotten in a good sweat. It feels good!

Here's to a great Sunday!

Thinking of changing a few things

I'm going to keep posting, but might change the way it looks. I like pink, but think maybe I need something warmer. Any suggestions?

Playing catch up

Ok, I forgot to post earlier in the week. Right now I'm taking a break from my assignment because it was giving me a headache. The assignment and DD's refusal to complete any of her assignments. Oh, and Snorificus is on the couch drowning out all sounds but his own. Yay...

I had a gain this past Sunday and I expected it. I didn't journal and it came back to haunt me. I usually have a monthly gain, and this was less than usual, so I'm not as down as I could be about it. I wonder if I could have avoided the gain altogether if I had kept my journal. Seeing the food log in print or on screen makes me think twice about what I have at a later meal.

On the positive side, I had tons of water, fruit, and vegetables, even when we ate out. And I kept the caffeine level down.

Gah! My body is rebelling - my hands are cramping up like they usually do during a flare up. Yay flareup.

Plan for next week:
Add 10 minutes to my walks
Keep the fruit & veggies preppeed and ready to go
Keep foods with inflammatory properties to a minimum

So, how has your week been?

Another week, another pound

I'm happy. Progress is progress, period.

My stepson is in town for the holiday and I am stoked! We've been playing Wii Sports (and he's been killing me) and falling back into our routine. It only took a day of deprogramming after a night with the grandparents, lol.

That's about it today; keeping to short and sweet.

Week 2 and a bit of whining

I lost another pound. I counted points, kept fat intake in check, and only lost a pound. One pound gone after a week like that used to make me want to cry, but I'm trying to keep the positive in mind. I have more energy and feel good. I got creative in the kitchen and the family enjoyed it right along with me. I'm on track and am gonna do what it takes to stay that way.

Now for the whining. My arthritic knee and shoulder are working overtime. I can't walk more than I am at the moment and then I am am sucking down Tylenol or Advil to keep mobile. Gah!

That's it. Time to meet DD's school bus.

4 pounds gone

Last Monday I weighed in at 236 and wanted to cry. It's not that it's my top number of all time, but it's the number I hit when I felt I was at rock bottom. I was heavier, but that number is a sore spot with me.

I went into action as soon as I got home after seeing DD off for school. I went through the pantry and fridge and tossed my trigger foods. I then went to the store and picked up things I actually needed - whole grains, beans, veggies. I made a huge pot of red beans and rice (fat free & awesome), steam-fried cabbage, and berries for dessert. It was simple, filling, full of fiber, heart-healthy, and just plain good! Hubby has been talking about it all week and he never does that.
It reminded me that I can have fabulous food that is good for me. I don't have to eat junk when time is of the essence.

This morning when I hit the scale I was 4 pounds lighter. I didn't count points or hit the elliptical or starve. I ate good food that was good for me. This is what this journey is about. Eating well and living well.

After 10 pounds are gone I'll be exercising more. Right now walking and my modified Pilates and yoga routines are the extent of it. My body cannot take much more than that right now. I tried and spent two days paying for it.

K, that's it for now.

Chicago here I come!

A week after weighing and measuring

I'm still annoyed by those measurements, but still energized by them. I've been getting in more protein and less refined carbs. I'm not going back to my ultra low carb days, just getting more balance in my food. And keeping portions under control.

I think I'm annoying hubby a bit. Even my junk food runs have been healthier - veggie sub at Subway, no cheese, vinegar, no oil. Fresco style bean burrito at Taco Bell. It makes him crazy. This afternoon when DD offered her last slice of pizza to us, hubby told her I wanted it. I told her I didn't and to just put it away from later if hubster wasn't interested. It's typical of the routine when I'm eating differently. I'm not thrilled about it, but I'm used to it. He only gets this way when he's feeling like making a change in his habits. He doesn't like eating alone and sometimes considers it eating alone of I'm eating something different.

He makes me tired, but I love him.

I have a knot in my shoulder that refuses to quit, so exercise has consisted of the modified yoga and pilates routine and watching the dogs race around the yard. Yep, I let them run instead of walking them; sue me.

So far so good as far as food today. I'm getting in lots of veggies and protein and small amounts of fat (only what was used in cooking and occurs naturally in the ingredients). I'm not sure what we'll have for dinner tonight, but the rest of the day has gone like this -

B: 1/4 c scrambled tofu, 1/4 cup veggie/nut burger, jalapeno, 2 TBS diced tomato, TBS shredded cheddar; cinnamon flax muffin; decaf, water, supplements

L: Tandoori tofu, sauteed spinach-onion-garlic; cup veggie soup

Hubby's not thrilled with the low sodium levels, but my heart is thanking me. I'm craving sugar and am not sure what I'm going to do about it. We're headed grocery shopping in a bit and I'm going to throw Greek yogurt into the cart. I love this stuff! 1/4 to 1/2 cup of it with some fruit, ground flax, and drizzle (or sprinkle) of a sweetener is so very good. It feels decadent and that helps trick these jaded taste buds of mine.

Did I mention that I'm reducing caffeine again? Yep, 1 cup of regular only, and that's only when we're out. At home it's either 3/4 decaf or full decaf. Hubby hasn't realized it yet. He's up when he's up and crashes at the drop of a hat.

Hubster is actually ready to go, so I'm out for now. Here's to a great week!

Long-term goals - health and in general

My buddy K inspired this one. And the more I think about it, the more I like the idea of a Chicago trip. :-) We can visit the Chicago Diner, Wrigley Field, try to score Oprah tickets.... And of course get into some trouble.

There are a few things that I'd like to accomplish over the next two years:

• obtain my MBA/MIT (four classes to go on that one)
• get rid of credit card debt (have a plan and will pay off the first card by 12/31)
• pay off the car (within 2 months)
• remodel the kitchen

On the health front

• see myself through hubby's eyes, as the gorgeous, sexy woman he loves
• keep my blood pressure within normal levels
• keep my cholesterol down
• drop a minimum of 30 pounds (that will put me close to the weight I was when hubby and I met)
• reduce the need for pain medication
  

I don't see them as unattainable. I can reach these goals, dammit! Two years is a long time, really. 15 pounds a year. 10 blood pressure points total. Less credit card debt will result in a higher net worth and more money to invest.

Alrighty, K, your turn.

Weighted and measured this moring

Yep, wasn't pretty. This, my friends, is what the double-whammy of pain and emotional eating do to me - 230; 45 waist; 44 hips.

I needed to put that out there. I need to see it somewhere besides the mirror (which I can avoid) and in my clothes. See, cooler temperatures are ahead which means bigger, bulkier clothing. It's easy to hide what I've regained in cool weather clothes. I see fall and winter with relief sometimes because it means I can hide.

Guess what - I'm tired of hiding! I'm tired of convincing myself that I look better than I think I do. I don't think I'm horrible, but I'm not the little thing I used to be. I have a closet full of great tops that I've outgrown - and I only gained a couple of inches.

I've decided that I will not buy any clothing for a while unless it's for a specific occasion. I have great clothes waiting for me, and they're not 2-3 sizes smaller, just one. I'm back to a size 20-22 top and not happy about it. I bought most of them in celebration of reaching that size (and the sale was awesome); I need to make sure I get to wear them before they're out of style.

I'm not going to do anything drastic, just get back to what I need to do, using the tools that I have on hand. I need to make sure I'm eating well and getting the nutrients I need. I need to get in those longer walks. I was up to 3 miles a day before pain knocked me off my game. On the days that walking makes me cry, I'll hit the floor and get in a few more minutes of yoga and/or Pilates. Yes, this girl is pretty flexible.

Technically I start over for the last time tomorrow, but today has already been a good day. Except for the 4 on the 1-10 pain scale. And the congestion. But that's another story.

It's actually a good Monday. Go figure.

Anyone else start over recently? Or come to a new and better understanding of yourself? Share with me!

Be well. Be strong.

Love yourself as you would your child.

This quote is from Raw Soul - kick-butt recipes in there. It hit me hard when I read it. I always tell other people that they need to take care of themselves but put myself last. Granted I'm doing better than I have in the past, but I still put everything and everyone else before me.

I take time to cry through my physical therapy exercises, meditate, and to cook well for us all, but I don't nurture myself. I don't see my down time as anything other than a necessary break. I need to see it as something special.

For a week, starting today, I will nurture myself. Let's see how much of a difference it makes.

On another note, hubby's sick and doing his damnedest to share the germs.

Starting over, breaking habits, feeling good and bad

Warning - little sleep, pain meds, and a wandering mind are responsible for the oddly flowing post. It makes sense, but isn't as pretty to look at as I'd like.

It's been a while. Too long, really.

I've been journaling haphazardly offline and not feeling up to sharing online. Why? Because I'd lost control. Earlier today I lost control for a bit but was able to stop myself.

Strangely enough I'm eating mostly healthy food when I lose control. My tastes have changed I suppose. Sugar is still my number one craving, but until a few days ago I had those cravings under control.

I'm not counting points as much as I'm watching portions. I'm getting whole grains, fruit, and vegetables more than anything else. I am truly digging my morning oatmeal with a little ground flax and maple syrup. Fruit is working really well as a snack. And big ol' salads are the norm now. I still get my junk in, but nowhere near as much. Ad I keep my handy dandy mug-o-water nearby and drain it at least twice a day..

The South Beach 100 calorie pack of dark chocolate covered soynuts is divine. Too bad hubby likes them an have finished them off. Grrr. He supposedly hated dark chocolate.

I've lost 8 pounds this past 3 weeks. It looks like it might be 8 pounds for the month. No complaints.

As for exercise, I'm having to slow down again. My knees this time. Arthritis at 39 sucks! My right side is beginning to stiffen up, so Sherrie will be more balanced in stiffness. I'm not whining s much as bitching. Not a 'poor me' attitude,more of an 'oh crap.' I'm still smiling, though. Before this latest flareup I had worked up to 3 miles a day 5 mornings a week. I've always had a fairly quick pace, so I'm getting my sweat on early. I was, anyway.

But, no matter how down I get, I remember that there is a healthier Sherrie inside me. She's not hiding as much as she used to. We should all let our inner goddess out more often.

Tini, thanks for inspiring me to get back on here. Much appreciated my friend!

So much for playtime, eh?

Settling in has been a bigger job than anticipated. We decided to paint the dining and living rooms later and hubby has been looking at new colors! I might have to strangle him of he changes on me since it took forever to choose the colors we did. He's thinking about wainscoting again because he saw one that jumped out at him. Never mind that it doesn't quite fit with our decor....Men I tell ya!

On the health front, I've had good and bad days. I cannot exercise for more than a few minutes and am not allowed to lift more than 10 pounds. Well, I got cocky and moved boxes yesterday. Not because I wanted to prove anything, but because I couldn't stand looking at or subbing my toes on them anymore. One the bright side I got two more boxes out of here altogether & got my holiday stuff into the attic. On the down side, I hurt. Really hurt. But I don't want to eat the hurt away. That's something, right?

I rarely have an appetite these days. I eat because I have to and nothing really has any flavor. I feel a funk coming on and need to shake it.

I've gained a few pounds - back to 228. I need to regain control and have been doing a little better every day. I'm journaling offline, writing everything down; setting and reaching daily goals. It's not starting that hurts me, but staying on track. Since exercise is off the table for the time being, I'll be counting points full time.

School starts next week and that means healthier food for all of us. More fruits and veggies, more balance, more harmony. It could not come at a better time! DD's excited about high school & DSS is stoked about being a senior in elementary school. I'm looking forward to the quiet while I work, lol.

Anyway, I've missed posting here and will be back in regular fashion soon. I know I've said that before; sue me.

Until then, be well.

Long time no update.

I don't have much playtime these days, but that will change somewhat after finals next week.

We closed on the house & have started on the makeover. I'll share pics soon. We've picked our paint colors, have kick butt hardwoods that need just a little love (30+ years under a carpet will keep 'em pretty). DD wants a black carpet and lavender walls - we can do that. DS wants royal blue & an area rug. Hubster & I are going with cafe a lait and a reddish accent wall.

We're packing and cleaning, all excited and just plain happy. I'm fighting through a flareup from hell. ON Tuesday and Wednesday I repeatedly lost my balance while standing still. Joyous. It's a sign that I need to go back in for another evaluation. Last time I was told that if things didn't improve that surgery was my only option.

Oh f*ckity f*ck f*ck.

The family knows I'm having a flareup, but don't know how bad it is yet. I know I should tell them, but summer is almost over, we're starting a new chapter of our lives, and I don't want to deal with the same questions and odd behavior thrown my way right after my diagnosis. What I really want is them happy until things slow down a bit.

If there was a time for comfort food, it's now. I've been pretty good about that this past week. We had coconut cake and I didn't have more the one slice a day and I didn't have a slice every day. I made a wicked vegetable stew for dinner the other night and wallowed in it's almost fat free, decadent, old school goodness. I followed the recipe from the winter 2007 issue of Don't Eat Off the Sidewalk and added celery and green peas. The dumplings I didn't like much (never have) so I only had the one (about the size of a half dollar coin).

As much as food could be used to comfort me, I won't use it that way. I'm going to be on crutches soon enough at this rate - I don't need to use food as one. Or alcohol. I'm so tempted.

I'm probably going to disappear for a day or two while I complete assignments and get more moving stuff out of the way.

Until next time.

7th day - my day off!

Well, sorta off. I'm not going to actively work out, but I have packing, cleaning, and laundry to do. Strength training and walking. The dumpster is a couple minutes away from our place, so toting multiple bags of trash will work my arms and shoulders. Laundry involves a bit of bending and reaching on top of lifting the baskets. And oh man do we have some baskets to lift!

As for food, I need to go shopping. I have beans on hand and some GimmieLean sausage and homemade taco tvp/nutmeat left over, but just enough for another day or two. I need to grab some protein and veggies.

Monday has always been my weigh in day, so I'm keeping it. Tomorrow I'll post my loss (I don't think I have one) or gain (I hope I don't have one) and reevaluate how I've eaten and what I can do to change things.

One thing I need to do is get rid of my triggers. I've been craving sugar lately and have eaten sweets. but I didn't go over in points. I know the difference between a good choice and a bad one, but lately I've been working overtime to fit a desired food into my day without going over. I'm not beating myself up, but damn! I have learned to cheat without cheating and it always bites me in the butt. It's annoying and frustrating.

When I eat things that don't agree with me I feel ick. I'm bloated, gassy, and miserable. I'm kinda feeling that way right now and had a decent breakfast (Mexican omelet - 2 eggs, taco nut meat, onion, jalapeno, & salsa with water and a cup of coffee) and somewhat naughty snack (small slice coconut cake with water).

Groan....
Whine....
Whimper....

K, done. Time to snap out of it and fix what I'm doing wrong. I know what's wrong and need to stop ignoring it and fix it. I grab certain foods out of habit, not hunger. Until I can get better control when it comes to those foods, I won't bring them home. If the sweet craving hits, a square of dark chocolate or sugar free pudding will be my fix. Or fruit with (coconut) cream or yogurt.

I feel better. And it didn't take a week of moping to do so.

Day six - gloomy and gray out

Yay, the first tropical storm to threaten the US is a mere 100 miles away. I'm not worried about it because I'm too busy stressing about the closing on Thursday. It's just gloomy out at the moment, no rain or wind. The dogs didn't want to stay outside and that bugs me a little. Maybe they know something I don't. Or maybe they hate the neighbors.

Day 6 of 8MM went well. I'm looking forward to the day off, but it won't really be a day off because more cleaning and semi-heavy lifting will be in order. Yep, still packing and cleaning.

Tonight is Anime Night and that usually means a theme dinner. I'm not sure if we'll do Mexican, Greek, Asian, or something else. Breakfast for dinner always appeals to me. I'm just going to go go with the flow.

Day five - it's gonna be a long one

Packing, cleaning, cooking, etc. Gah! Hubby's off today so maybe we can get something done. Maybe.

Here's to a kick butt weekend!

Day four - feeling great!

Got in a 30 minute walk and my 8MM this morning. I can't believe I went walking so early, but it's supposed to be hot today and I have a lot to do. It feels good to be on track with food and exercise.

My brother and sister-in-law called last night to invite me to go with them to a Weight Watchers meeting. Yep, after talking to my bro on and off for a couple of years and trying to get him to go with me, he's joined. She lost 9 pounds and he lost 7. They're excited and both feel that this will last a lifetime. I'm thrilled for them.

The Emmy nominations just aired. Woohoo Michael C. Hall & Dexter! Woohoo Neil Patrick Harris (Doogie)! Woohoo The Office!

Today's plans include classwork, cooking (which I didn't get to do yesterday), cleaning, packing, and torturing the kiddos. We also have a few things Tivo'd to take out before we move, so our weekend entertainment is set. I will happily pack while watching Saw 3.

Almost forgot - another reason to turn on the oven

This mac & cheez from VegNews. I've been playing with different variations of vegan mac & cheez and think I'll give this one a shot. So far my fav has been from the Fat Free Vegan Kitchen with a lightened version of The New Farm's recipe running a close second. Especially when either diced tomatoes or broccoli are tossed in - yummy!

And what did I see when I went to FFVK to grab the link? Blueberry Oat Bars! OMG, I've got to make these! I have everything for them on hand. See, this wahm has been seriously craving sugar - so much that the kids' Nutri-Grain bars are looking good. I've always thought they should have more filling (and a name that truly reflects what they are, bigger fig newtons with non-fig fillings). The blueberry oat bars might just do the trick.

Dang! Hubster has jury duty tomorrow. Pooh!

Wednesday day 3

Whew! It's hot out and inside today. I've been cleaning and packing pretty much since I crawled out of bed this morning. I got in my 8MM and after all this heavy lifting I think I may make tomorrow my day off instead of Sunday. Maybe. I haven't decided yet.

Food has been ok, but I've had to make myself eat because I haven't been hungry. For dinner tonight we're having pasta with a garden vegetable sauce and a zucchini, garlic, tomato, and onion saute on the side. I'm going to water saute them and add a little oil just before serving, either a drizzle of olive or flax oil. I'd planned to make either pumpkin or flax muffins too, but it's too frickin hot! Maybe after the sun sets I'll go for it.

Where does DS get the frickin energy? He's making me tired - biking, two basketball games, and now fooling about with his RC car - all in the three hours. Gah!

I may be back later; undecided.

Tuesday, day two

Got in a 15 minute walk and my 8MM day two! I'm not sure what I'm having for breakfast this morning. I threw together a lunch for hubby and am thinking toward lunch and dinner. I'm getting hungry, so I have to eat something. I'm leaning toward either a smoothie or grits and an egg.

Yep, still struggling with veganism. It would help if I'd remember to grab certain things at the store. Like tofu & TVP. It would help more if Publix carried TVP so I wouldn't have to go to Whole Foods or Earth Fare where I'm tempted to buy a little of everything.

DSS will be here to see his new room and get it the way he wants it! I was kind of worried he'd have to go back to his mom's before we could get it just right, but nope! Yeah!

9 days until closing. OMG!

Man it's been a long Monday!

But I had a Doctor Who marathon on Sci-Fi today to help pass the time while I typed, cleaned, and worked on school projects.

As far as food it wasn't a bad day. I responded to my craving to sweets with a cinnamon roll and was thoroughly disappointed in it. It wasn't as good as I'd hoped it would be. I'm glad I didn't go over in points to have it. I came in at 26 points and 1 activity point - not too shabby, especially since I get 26.

I've decided to follow the old point rules that gave me 26 daily points instead of the 27 under the newer rules. I tried going with 27 for a while and made sure I got in that point most days...and went over more often than not. I love those 35 flex points, and used to allow myself to go over 5 points every day just because I could. I didn't gain anything back while OP (on plan), but I think I could have lost more weight by staying closer to my daily points alone.

This isn't about how I did before. This is about how I'm doing now and will be in the near future. I need to keep that in mind so I don't slip into a negative state.

I'm going to hit the sack in a few. Yep, me. I'm going to bed at a decent hour. Bout time, eh?

Here's to Tuesday!

July 14

I weighed in this morning at 225. Yay! I love starting the week with a loss!

The landscapers showed up a little early, so the dogs will have to wait for a longer walk. They got in a few minutes of running about wildly while I limped nearby.

I got in my 8MM workout (using a resistance band instead of dumbbells) and a few minutes of yoga. I feel so good! I think the band will be a little easier on my shoulder than the dumbbells for rows and presses without changing the effectiveness of the workout. We'll see.

I had cereal for breakfast for the first time in weeks. It was yummy! I used to grab a bowl at night if I felt the need to snack. I should pick the habit back up, especially since it was a whopping 1-2 points for the bowl (1/2 cup Fiber One original + 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk; another point if I throw in berries).

More later.

The next 4 weeks

...will consist of final exams, a huge IT Networking project, new house stuff (cleaning, painting, ripping up carpet & finishing hardwood floors, reglazing bathroom tiles, work, school stuff for the kiddos, snuggling with hubster, being knocked over by dogs (as usual), and following the routine that helped me when I started on a weigh loss journey a few years back. This will be my typical weekday routine:

• Get hubster off to work
  
• 15-20 minute walk with the dogs (well, hobble for me until my knee is back to 100%)
  
• 8 Minutes in the Morning
• Breakfast and supplements (multi+iron, GLA, CoQ10, joint formula, flaxseed oil, magnesium + calcium, something for pain if needed)
  
• School & work
• Family stuff - lunch with the kids, torturing them with my 'uncoolness,' dinner with my three favorite people
  
• Afternoon or evening walk or yoga; meditation

On weekends I'll get to skip the am dog walking cause hubster & the kids take over, and I may not have work, but everything else stays the same.

Program and personal goals

• Start 7/14
• 6-8 pounds down by 8/10 (218-220 the goal weight)
• 190 by 12/31

Overall goals

• 150 pounds
• 45 minute to 1 hour karate or kickboxing class (or video) at least twice a week

I will look at myself the way hubby sees me.

When this 4 weeks is over, I'll start a new cycle. I can eat what I want; nothing's forbidden. I will play with my food as always, but will try new things more often. I'll weigh in weekly, but will stay away from the tape measure for at least 2 weeks.

Change of plans, sigh

Turbo Jam will have to sit a little longer because my knee and hip are not having it. It doesn't usually cause problems with my hip, but since me knee is swollen, screaming, and kind of crooked (damn dogs), I have to go low impact.

A buddy of mine is also on a journey toward better health and recently discovered 8 Minutes in the Morning. I have the book and followed the routine while walking up to an hour a day or popping in an exercise video. I was losing inches, gaining strength, and looking hot. I was following a low fat eating plan (not the one in the book but similar) and was feeling great. I only stopped following that routine because of my accident. I dropped EVERYTHING after the accident.

Hubby pulled out the book and restarted a couple of months ago and supplemented the routine with time on the elliptical. Lucky thing hasn't changed his eating habits and is losing weight and inches. (Sometimes men just SUCK!) It's hard to be completely supportive when his progress makes me a little jealous. I love that man and am proud of him, no questions, no doubts. But damn! There are weeks that I'm on target 110% and lose a pound while he loses 3. Grrrr!

Speaking of, have you seen those Slimquick commercials? The woman struggles with her loss while her guy loses effortlessly. They're cute ads but hit too close to home for me to laugh at. Smile, yes, but not laugh out loud.

Speaking of laughing out loud, it's really late and I'm going to get a fix of my new guilty pleasure, dumb criminal shows. Most Shocking is on and this episode covers stupid naked criminals. Then I'm going to fall asleep (hopefully) and have a good Friday.

Hope you have a good one, too.

Sigh, Tuesday

Turbo Jam was fun this morning, but I'm paying for it. I think I'll need to adjust my workout schedule thanks to my knee and no thanks to the dogs. I so want to be angry, but Fred is giving me the 'I love you, momma' face and curled up under the desk, resting her feet on my feet. Awww. Demon!

I'm not eating my annoyance away, which is a good thing. But I am slacking off with my assignment, so I need to end this shortly.

The appraisal is today. I'm kind of stressing about it, but it's out of my hands. And it being out of my hands will help me keep junk food out of my hands and mouth.

It's official - I think I hate my dogs

Not all the time, just today. Well, any day that they decide to knock me down by slamming into my knees. And following up by jumping on me in their attempts to get each other. I'm sitting here with throbbing pain bouncing up and down my left side (already my weak side), listening to their tags jingle as they wrestle less than three feet away; oblivious.

At least I got in a little of the morning walk before I ate wet grass, eh?

My knee is wrapped at the moment and hopefully will be good enough tomorrow for walking. Instead of Turbo Jam I'll dust off Walk Away the Pounds. Today I'll get in some upper body work and eat well.

I've decided to start counting WW points again. I'm not changing how I eat, just making sure I keep my portions in check. And I'm cutting the caffeine down again. I've been bad and getting way too much of it lately.

Monday, Monday.....

Here's how my week went

It's been stressful, but not bad overall. I exercised, ate ok, and made it through two potential binges. I won't bore you with too many details.

I bought a pedometer and logged my walks and elliptical strides.:
Monday - 8,000 steps
Tuesday - 3500 so far (stupid pedometer reset during my morning walk)
Wednesday - 3672 steps
Thursday - 2200 steps (not a good day at all)
Friday - 4200 so far

21,572 for the week! Not too shabby!

I also made it through the week without Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dumb knocking me off my feet during their morning walk/run. They did, however, destroy dog bed #4, a pair of sunglasses, and a battery for one of s-son's RC cars. Lovely, eh?

I've been a slacker about getting in a sweat-inducing workout lately. I have Turbo Jam just sitting here, so I've decided that I'll follow the schedule for a month to see how what progress I make. I really liked the workout. I just feel strange about working out with an audience. Silly, isn't it? I like how it feels, but blow it off in case I hear giggles or a snide comment. It's all in my head. My kids like when I exercise and have joined me. The last ones to giggle were hubby and my brother when I pulled out one Richard Simmons' Broadway videos. And they quickly shut up once they saw that it was work - I challenged the slackers and they left me alone after 5 minutes, lol. I need to shut those bad inner voices out and get back to work. Feel free to give me a shove if I slack off.

Have a wonderful weekend! Get your grill on - lots of healthy alternatives out there that taste just as good!

Thoughts on my progress so far

So I weighed in at 226 on Monday. I started on March 7 at 238 and a few inches bigger. Here are my stats for the past few months:

5/1 measurements:
neck- 15 (down 1 since 3/19)
chest- 48 (same)
arms- (L) 13 1/4 (R) 14 (down 1/2)
waist- 43 1/2 (down 2 1/2 )
hips- 42 (down 2)
thighs- (L) 23 1/3 (R) 23 1/2 (actually a little bigger)

6/2 measurements:
neck 15 (same)
chest= 47 1/2 (1/2" down)
Arm = 13 1/2 R, 13 1/4 L (down 1/2")
Calf = 16 3/4 R, 16 3/4 L
thigh = 22 3/4 L, R = 23 (down 3/4")
hips 42 1/4 (up 1/4 & my butt is higher)
waist 42 (down 1 1/2")

7/1 measurements:
neck - 15" (same as last month)
chest - 47 1/2" (same)
arms - 13 1/2 " R, 13 1/4" L (same)
calves - 16 1/2 " R , 16 1/2 L (down 1/4)
thighs - 23" R, 22 3/4 L (same)
hips - 42 1/4 (same, butt even higher & rounder)
waist - 41 3/4" (down 1/4")

Another 1/2" down overall! Progress is progress!

There are those who will say that I'm unmotivated and should get moving more, and I'm one of them. But I know my body and know what happens when I push too hard. It's taken a lot for me to break free of my "all or nothing" mindset and desire to always eat the bad feelings away. I've challenged myself to keep exercising, no matter what the form, to find better ways of working through my feelings, and to not beat myself up if I don't have the same results as someone else. It's not about just getting smaller, it's about getting and keeping a healthier mind, body, and spirit.

Overall I feel a lot better. More confident, sexier, happier, and healthier. I have bad days, but when I do I don't beat myself up. I'm motivated, but tend to let myself become distracted. Right now school (midterms) and the home buying process are the distractions. The family wants me to get healthier and encourage me to hit the elliptical or grab the weights. I went biking with my stepson and he loved every second of leaving me in the dust. When he did, that is. I held my own, lol; can't get beat by a 10 year old, lol.

I know that I am more than the numbers on the scale and the size of my clothes. The inner sexy hottie mama is coming out more often and I'm loving it!

To my Pound Losin Pretty Chicks, Skinny bitches, and those losing 50-100, ya'll rock! Thanks for the motivation & support!

Monday and Tuesday so far

Monday June 30 -
I'm at 226 - gained back two that I lost at the beginning of June. Ick. I feel fat and bloated. I need to get back on track and stay there!

I hurt today. I didn't sleep well over the weekend and am having a little flare-up. Woohoo! Fatigue + pain always makes me want to eat for comfort, meaning starchier stuff. And I fed that craving but kept the fat content down. A little victory is better than none.

8000 steps (I forgot to put it on while running errands)
30 minute walk

Tuesday July 1 -
Summer is already half over. Wow.
My stupid pedometer reset during my morning walk! Grrr!

B: 3 cups fruit salad (strawberries, blueberries, & pineapple), coffee, water, & supplements

L: Homemade vegan sausage on bun w/jalapeno hot sauce, pickle, cucumbers; water

Snack: coffee, water, & Oreo cookies

D (planned): big ol' salad - romaine, cukes, grape tomatoes, celery, onions, & Morningstar Farms chik'n strips (vegan) w/Annie's Goddess dressing or Green Goddess dressing; lemonade or iced tea

3500 steps
45 minutes walking
15 minutes elliptical

I've been quiet, but busy

We're house hunting. Well, we've put in a bid that was accepted and are now in the appraisal and inspections stage. Everything else is in line, so much so that we could close within 2 weeks of the appraisal. It's terrifying and incredibly exciting at the same time. I'll give a heads up if I have to disappear for a day or two to move.

On the food front, I'm doing better. I'm getting 6-8 servings of fruit and veggies a day and 100 oz. or more of water daily. I've also gotten a new pedometer and have been walking myself stupid. We even made a family day an active one - we took a tour of Ft. Sumter and walked on the beach afterward. Saturday I helped my brother and sister in law with their yard sale and got in some heavy lifting. I also got a reminder to get enough water on a hot day. I felt quite ill by the time the sale ended and it took many ounces of water, a cool shower, and a night's sleep to feel better.

It' s almost July, so I'll have new stats to share on the first. So far it looks like June was a good month for me. But July will be even better!

BTW, June 30 is Please Take My Children to Work Day, a plea for a day off for SAHMs. It's a great idea, and MommaSaid.net is the brainchild. So, give a SAHM, WAHM, SAHD, or WAHD the day off. A few hours off would be nice, too. It would be appreciated!

Wonderful Wednesday

Why is it wonderful? Because my stepson hits the big 10 today! I met him when he was 9 months old, about a month after hubby and I met. He was so quiet and serious. And gorgeous. Man, was he a cutie with his big brown eyes, chubby cheeks, and mop of curly hair. He's still a cutie, but then again I'm biased.

He's an amazing kid and I feel so blessed to have him in my life. He's funny, brilliant, talented, and obsessed with all wheeled things. He's been lobbying for both a dirt bike and gasoline RC car, but apartment living and anything that requires gasoline and needs to be brought inside do not mix. Once we're in a house, maybe. I love that little boy! Sorry, big boy. Young man. Tween, complete with angst, fuzzy pits, and a few pimples.

He's requested an ice cream cake (gulp) and pizza at one of the family favs for dinner (double gulp). Today is one of the days that I enjoy food without guilt, but mindfully. The pizza place is a buffet - nope,not CiCi's, so I'll go nuts on the salad bar - tons of veggies with fat free Italian dressing and a little fruit. Since they take requests, I'll order a thin crust veggie special and have two. If I need something else, I'll get more fruit or salad. And get in a little extra sweat time.

Tuesday night was well, interesting. It was a starch and protein fest! I had a grilled teese (soy cheese) on Ezekiel sprouted bread, then a cold cheese sandwich, pickles, and could not bring myself to have salad. I did grab some pineapple, but that was it as far as getting my five a day. Today has to be better, period. I need to snap out of this funky eating pattern before I regain any weight.

Happy birthday, R!

Monday wasn't bad; bleah Tuesday so far

Well, Monday did start with some sad news. RIP George Carlin.

After a little bummed time, I got to work on my assignment. I'm feeling better (woohoo detox), but for some reason am not in the mood to eat well. It's not like there's nothing in here. I mean I cooked on Sunday - collards, brown rice, vegan sausage (Julie Hasson's recipe), lots of salad fixins, okra and tomatoes, biscuits, and pancakes (plain for the kids, blueberry corn for me, and hubster will grab whichever he's in the mood for). I made sure the fridge and freezer are stocked with yummy goodness - fruit, veggies, vegan chicken strips, veggie chick'n nuggets, various lean protein options for the omni family. Yesterday I just wasn't feeling up to eating well, which is not normal for me anymore.

What has been normal for me is the need to jump from plan to plan when I'm not making the progress I want. I'll stop eating my 5 + daily veggie & fruit servings, forget to exercise or take down the intensity level, pack in the starchy stuff, and throw in sweets while wondering why the scale has stopped moving. Instead of refocusing, I change my eating plan. From low carb to counting points to nearly vegan - all for the sake of dropping pounds quickly. I've learned that I need to eat a healthier, balanced diet, keep fat within reasonable amounts, and to not see anything as forbidden. When I make a list of naughty foods, I want them more.

With that said, I thought I'd mention Team Beach Body. I heard about the virtual fitness club an decided to join. After a month a joined the club and followed the eating plan. I started with a 1600 calories 'low carb' plan, but it's not an Atkins-style plan. It's a balanced Zone or South Beach phase 3 plan and easy to follow. It's how I generally eat, but with less fat, regularly-sized portions, and, lower fat. I retook the test today and it suggested that plan again. I'm not sure how closely I'll follow the actual foods listed, but I will keep the fat, car, and protein content close. If anyone here is a member, feel free to invite me to a workout or two and add me to your list. You can get a better idea of what I've been doing so far by checking out my profile.

Huh. Tuesday is now looking up - we put in a bid on a house today and the seller is very excited about it.

Aaaah, detox!

I feel 75% better already! Give me a few more days and I'll be back up to speed!

I'm not following a specific detox regimen, just getting in my green smoothies (cucumbers, strawberries, lemon juice, and romaine or cucumbers, celery, kale or spinach, lemon juice, and pineapple), lots of fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Very little fat, little caffeine, dandelion and green teas, and tons of water.

If only I could sleep. But if we could find THE house, I would sleep better.

Wednesday - another ick day

Yes, I awakened feeling a little worse than I had been feeling so far this week, but made a point of not letting the kids see. They had to tiptoe around me when my back was at its worst, so the last thing I want is to scare or worry them. I took DS and his friend to the pool (I sat poolside, practically salivating at the thought of hitting the water), took out a couple loads of laundry, walked with the dogs, finished grocery shopping, and did some cleaning. As soon as the kids pass out tonight I'm going to.

Hubby came home early to help out, but he's out cold right now. He fell asleep while I was putting the finishing touches on a short assignment.

I finally think I know why I've been ick these past few days. Here's the backstory - I've been feeling off since Sunday evening and it has not let up one bit. While hubby and I talked this afternoon, a lightbulb went off. Every day that I've felt bad was a day that i had this bread we keep on hand. We've discussed no longer buying it because it would turn within 2-4 days of opening the loaf. Well, I've made sammies on it every day since Saturday, and had 2 sandwiches with it yesterday. I pulled out the loaf and checked the slices - no mold. I got hubby to take a wiff when he got in (he has an incredible sense of smell) and it smelled like mold.

I'm allergic to penicillin and have been eating icky bread. Lovely.

The bread has been tossed, the detox fixins are on hand, and this girl is gonna flush her system with fruit, veggies, dandelion & ginger teas, lemon, and water. I want this ick gone, dammit!

Here's to a good Thursday. I'm off work, can sort of sleep in, and am ready to feel better. I'm so very tired of feeling bad. It never fails - two steps forward, one step back. I've made it through a few high-stress days without resorting to comfort food, but I've been slowly poisoning myself. Woohoo.....

Tuesday = more ick

I'm tired. Really tired. Whatever this is is wearing me down, and not sleeping well does not help matters.

It was a good food day, but it almost wasn't. I had a late snack (around 5 pm) and worked on assignments before realizing I hadn't had dinner - at 11 pm. I wasn't in the mood to cook (and had a lovely clogged kitchen sink to contend with) , so hubster offered to go grab something. I've been craving Taco Bell lately so I wrote down my nummies of choice and off her went. The store's computer was down, so no TB. I told him to skip it and I'd grab something, and was resigned to whipping something up after all, when he called back. Burger King was open. Visions of onion rings and the veggie burger danced through my head. Luckily for me, they closed early. At the time I was bummed, but today I'm glad. I snagged a PB&J and some pineapple juice instead (yum)!

B: green smoothie (strawberries, cucumbers, romaine, lemon juice, & splash agave nectar); water; supplements
L: chickpea 'tuna' salad, reduced fat Wheat Thins; green tea
S: blueberry Nutri-grain bar (2), lemon water
D/late snack: PB&J on Pepperidge Farms Honey Flax bread (too heavy for me)

Exercise: 45 minutes walking, stretching

Monday = ick

I still feel like crap and am not sure how long this will last. I hate it, that's for sure.

Food was ok today - kept it simple and on the bland side. No coffee. Lots of water. Portions in check. I forgot to have dandelion tea, so I think I'll brew a cup while I take the dogs on their last walk.

The kids have been good with me, but snarky with each other. How uncomfortable would I be if I slept in the car tonight? Is it wrong to wish that school was in session for them year round?

Exercise was non-existent, but then again I haven't been taking days off or burning the calories like I should. It's been so very hot, busy, crazy. I get at least 40 minutes each day with the dogs, walking about 2 1/2 MPH for most of it. I need to jump on the elliptical for at least 10 minutes each in the am and afternoon to help shake thing up a bit.

But for now, I'm going to get that tea on, get the dogs out, kiss the snarky ones goodnight, & make the sleeping hubby give up my side of the bed.

Father's Day '08 - good times with good people, but crap food at lunch

It started like a typical Sunday - I took the dogs out around 7-7:30 then grabbed a few more z's like the rest of the family. Around 2 pm or so we decided to take a short road trip to visit sis-in-law, niece, & nephews. Eldest nephew graduates from high school tomorrow, so we figured it was worth it. The weather, however, decided we were stupid.

It poured! Rained, thunder booming, lightening crashing, idiots speeding through it and a few slamming into the median. Gah! Visibility was low - no more than 1 1/2car lengths - but we kept going. It was one of those 'we're already halfway there' situations.

Fast forward to lunch. I wasn't really hungry, so McD's was selected. I decided to have some fries (shared fryer = bad idea) and the family all had their usual. It was at a truck stop, and Subway was right there, but there were no seats for Subway and I'd already had my share of subs this month. Around 8pm we all began to feel kind of off. My stomach is currently jumping and rolling about. Hubby felt the same way before he fell asleep. The kids and their cast iron bellies are fine. I know better than to let them grab that stuff, but I decided that I would not be the food police 24/7. When we go out, we vote on where to go and they won. We all lost, though.

Dinner was much, much better. We went to an old fav, Waffle House! I had a double order of hash browns with peppers & onions (then splashed on some picante sauce - yum), coffee, water, & a bottle of hot & spicy V-8. Yes, I go spicy when I have an upset stomach and it works well for me.

We finally rolled back in at 1:23 am and the family is asleep - everyone but me and the dogs. Hubby loved his Daddy's Day. He scored The Boondocks season 2, the traditional t-shirt, and a funky card. We also let him sleep until 11, which he apparently needed because he was feeling great when he finally got to moving.

Sigh, Monday....

Ah, Saturday!

It was a semi-crappy day. I didn't sleep well Friday night and am not sure why. Could it have been the assignments looming that I hadn't quite finished? Maybe, but I finished everything and turned them in on time. Sort of. I had a laptop malfunction and Ms. Brainiac here did not back up anything. Why? Because I took it for granted that everything would be ok. I'm usually paranoid about my work, but for some reason today I was blase'. Won't make that mistake again this session.

Food wise it was good. I started with a smoothie made with particularly juicy pineapple slices, frozen strawberries, and Shaklee soy protein powder. I skipped the agave nectar this time and it was perfect. I'd walked the dogs for over 40 minutes this morning and started laundry before grabbing anything, and the last thing I wanted was anything heavy. We had dinner out again, and hit Fazoli's. My choices include cheese pizza, fettuccine Alfredo, and a tomato and cheese panini. I chose the panini because I relished the thought of 'maters, even with the scare. And I'd seen another diner's pizza go out and it was crazy oily. I was not expecting the breadsticks, but ate mine, both of DD's, and one of hubby's. My sandwich was bland. Even after I salted and hit it with red pepper flakes, it was still blah. Sigh. I will never suggest it again.

My detox experiment will begin soon. I've been reading more raw blogs lately. I started looking at first to find soup and smoothie recipes, but became entranced by the stories of weight loss and improved health. Every raw experiment I've tried beyond breakfast has failed so far. Either I realize that an ingredient wasn't raw or just caved and ate something cooked. I know it doesn't have to be all or nothing, but I have a problem with moderation. And being the main cook in my home doesn't help me avoid temptation. I hit the library and borrowed the Raw Foods Detox Diet. I took the quiz and am a level 3 according to the results, and should go for a raw until dinner sort of plan. I can do that, but have to remember to ignore my Annie's Goddess dressing at lunch. I'm going to finish reading while continuing on my current plan, then jump on in. I so should wait until school starts in fall before starting so that I'm not as tempted by the kids' lunches (their evil I tell ya, EEEVILLLE), but feel like I need something. My fruit and veggie consumption has slipped since summer started and I'm not really sure why.

But, it's really late (or early depending on your time zone) and I should be trying to sleep instead of typing. Besides, I need to finalize the plans for hubby's day.

Happy Father's Day, dads, granddads, stepdads, and father figures! And to the moms who fill both roles.
Be well and be blessed!

Friday wasn't a bad day after all

I thought that after my dogs slammed into my right knee at full speed that I'd end up sitting most of the weekend. After a little while on my butt (and a little ice) it was okay. They were as apologetic as ever, tiptoeing around me, kissing my feet until I pet them. I'm so whipped - but don't ever tell them that.

Last night we split into 2 teams and the boys did their thing while DD and I did ours. She and I had take out for dinner - Taco Bell - chatted, and caught up on Blue Dragon and Code Geass. If I hadn't mentioned it before, she's awesome!

B: Lightlife baked ham (70 calories & 0 fat for 4 slices!!!!) on rye w/Nasoya & a pickle; supplements, water, & coffee

L: massive bowl o' fruit - berries, pineapple, & kiwi; Crystal Light

S: 2 slices Ezekiel toast w/jelly; tea

D: Taco Bell - 2 fresco style bean burritos (beans & onions thanks to the salmonella in tomatoes), side beans & rice, chips, empanada; Crystal light

Exercise: 40 minute walk, 2 yoga sessions

Thursday - ugh!

I was a bad day. Pain kicked me around for a while and I had to break and take something acouple of times. I should have opted for something a little stronger than Excedrin, but I didn't want to spend the day all drugged and groggy. That might have been better than the upset stomach.

It was a starch-fest!

B: 'Cheese' w/Nasoya on rye & a pickle; coffee; supplements

S: PB&J on Nature's Own double fiber wheat bread

L: Chickpea cutlets (from Veganomicon)w/BBQ sauce; water; Crystal Light

D: Wendy's side salad w/a little honey mustard, fries, large light lemonade

S: Sara Lee coffee cake, coffee, & water

I feel the effects of the starchyness - a little bloated and kind of off. I did walk a lot and got in a couple of good stretching sessions, but no real sweat.

Wednesday, my third favorite day of the week!

Hump day rocks! It's a sign that it's almost over. And this has been one of those weeks that I'm ready to end. It's been stressful, and stress makes me want to eat. I don't think I'll have to worry about that much today because my tummy is doing flip-flops. No, make that an entire Olympic-caliber routine.

I'm feeling every bit of the ick that follows a fatty & dairy-heavy day. I can handle a little cheese and maybe a dollop of cream, but a monster scoop of ice cream on top of full fat mayo on egg salad is too much. and let's not forget the friend stuff.

A detox may be in order. But not today. I'm going for healthy comfort food and bunch o' veggies.

B: PB&J on Ezekiel bread; coffee & water; supplements

L: McDougall Vegan Chinese chicken Noodle low sodium soup, bunch o' steamed broccoli & cauli (w/ginger dressing for dipping), Crystal Light tangerine strawberry [2 g fat! Yay!]

S: chickpea 'tuna' salad, crackers, & coffee

D: tasted cookie dough; Veggie sub from Subway. I so needed the veggies & kitchen break!

And the cookie dough tasting was it. I burned the cookies while playing with the kids. Totally forgot they were in the oven. D'oh!

Totally vegan! Yay!

Ex: 20 minute walk, yoga

Tuesday temptations, oy!

Tuesday started really well, although it was hot again! I got in a lot of walking and some yoga, lots of water, only 2 cups of coffee, and ate really well until dinner time rolled around. I got in plenty of fruit and veggies (more than 6 servings today) and thought a little splurge wouldn't hurt. Oh man. I had root beer (not diet, full sugar) for the first time in ages, and lots of fried and fatty stuff. I won't lie, it was fabulous all around, but more fat and sugar than I've had in months.

B: 2 cups strawberries, kiwi, 1/2 c Silk vanilla yogurt, tsp ground flax; water; supplements

L: chickpea 'tuna' salad (mashesd chckpeas, Nasoya mayo, celery, kelp, & Crazy Mixed-Up salt), crakers, cukes & carrots; coffee & water

D: egg salad on rye with lettuce and locally grown tomatoes; 1/3 basket onion rings + sauce (a spicy, mayo based concoction), 1/4 basket fries; root beer; scoop mocha ice cream with hot fudge sauce & dollop whipped cream

Lots of water today

Ex: 20 minute walk (x 2), 10 minutes strength training; 15 mins. yoga

I'm not sure how much exercise I'll get tomorrow since my back and hip are going haywire. In a big way. Yoga will be a big part of it regardless. And I think I'll pull out the physical therapy routine. Along with the joint and muscle cream, ginger tea, pineapple juice as a smoothie base, and ice pack. Ouch.

Monday wasn't a bad day.

It was crazy hot yesterday and nearly as hot today. My poor dogs are miserable because they loved their afternoon walks before these temperatures. They'll adapt; eventually.

On the exercise front, I got in over 60 minutes yesterday between the walks, my group's challenge exercise, and my usual. And I'm sore today. I'm heading into my monthly flareup and it won't be pretty. I had to crawl out of bed this morning and that's a sign that I overdid it on top of the flare up.

On the food front, yum! I had berries, kiwi, and Silk soy yogurt from breakfast, a McDougall soup cup for lunch (black bean & couscous low sodium), and a spinach, tomato (sadly canned), and fat free feta fritatta with vegan sausage for dinner. For an afternoon snack I had a smoothie (banana, strawberries, double portion Shaklee soy protein, & agave nectar) and my late night snack was a leftover slice of veggie pizza with extra banana peppers & chipotle sauce. Yeah, a naughty late snack, but it's now outta here and cannot tempt me. I'm working on an assignment today (its due tonight; I'm such a slacker sometimes) and am making sure I don't let the stress get to me. I have plenty of healthy sweetness and quick dinner fixings on hand.

I got pretty good sleep on Monday, but some was due to the crap night of sleep on Sunday and Monday's heat. Tonight should be better. Hopefully.

So. how is everyone else doing?

Public weight loss? Yep, it's gonna help keep me honest

I restarted my journey on March 9, 2008at 238 pounds and 40% body fat. As of today I am down to 224, 35% body fat, and have lost 7" overall, 4 of them off my waist.

I've struggled with my weight for many years, and all of the issues that came with the gain. At my heaviest I was over 250 (I'm not sure how much over because I stopped using the scale at 250) and wore a 26 bottom and 26-28 top. I developed high blood pressure (the family curse) and the migraines that started in my tween years became progressively worse. Changes in my routine and eating plan have led to a normal bp, awesome cholesterol and triglyceride numbers, and more energy. I still get migraines, but they have become less frequent and less severe.

Exercise is a mixed bag. I'm a video addict, but am somewhat limited on how I move thanks to an accident a few years back and my arthritic left side (hip, knee, ankle an back). I have a couple Beach Body workouts and love them, but can't follow the suggested schedules or I end up in bed for a day or two. I do a lot of walking, have a love/hate relationship with my elliptical, and love my resistance bands. I get in at least 40 minutes of activity daily thanks to the dogs, kids, and whatever workout calls to me.

And food. Oh, food is life. I love cooking , cookbooks, and food blogs. Food Network is set as one of my favorites in my remote, and my extended family has come to expect a Paula Deen-inspired dessert at family gatherings. I'm a vegetarian, but my family isn't, and I do most of the cooking. Hubby isn't exactly a lower fat kind of guy and believes there are two food groups - meat and other. When it comes to our ways of eating, I see how I eat as my choice, and make sure there are choices for all of us on the table. While DD is likely to go meatless for most meals, DS is just like dad and wants meat. Fun, eh?

I'm a rambling this this morning, lol. I'm making this public because I can't ignore the off-track days when they're out there for the world to see. It's easy to 'forget' to journal when I stick with paper & pen. Besides, I know I'm not the only one out there, struggling to find time to take care of my needs when I have a family, work, school, and other things filling my schedule. I've learned that I am not good to them or anyone else when I'm flat on my back. They respect and encourage my workout and meditation time because if mama's not happy, no one's happy.

I'll ramble, confess, celebrate, and generally log my progress, setbacks, whatever here. For now, it's time for a cup of tea and some breakfast.

Later all.