tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42416127238833530432024-03-14T10:50:51.573-04:00Victorious SecretA fully transparent journal of my journey to achieve a healthy lifestyle and ultimately significant weight lossShannon Cannellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12486307296121136359noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-12637655819069300632011-02-05T19:44:00.005-05:002011-02-05T20:34:41.646-05:00121 Days<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOC_sc4bhPemejIHcN3SjBM1xMUkvDJEgbMpZVrVHQL4buXFjoDOj1i24A9Vx8OO3i3ppfLpXsJMj9foq36TyxqKTToXHmvSUqHe7GbchMowTJhDiQ76Zi22dECLKdlBcy22JQU6kfCcM/s1600/lf.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 159px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOC_sc4bhPemejIHcN3SjBM1xMUkvDJEgbMpZVrVHQL4buXFjoDOj1i24A9Vx8OO3i3ppfLpXsJMj9foq36TyxqKTToXHmvSUqHe7GbchMowTJhDiQ76Zi22dECLKdlBcy22JQU6kfCcM/s200/lf.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570371933499408770" /></a>This afternoon, I decided to pull out my Wii Fit Plus and Balance Board and do a little moving and shaking. I was feeling so proud that I had taken that step...after all, it's been a little while. I made up my mind that I was going to do some low impact stuff, and have a 200 calorie burn goal. I was feeling motivated. <br /><br />I'm not sure what it is about my Wii Fit Plus program. I think I may need to send it back to the manufacturer. It seems to have some sort of glitch - that glitch being a serious personality problem. This thing says things that aren't socially acceptable ALL THE TIME. I mean, it will say, "OH! That's OBESE!" and "Do you find yourself tripping when you walk?" routinely. Well, today, it officially discouraged me. <br /><br />I got my program up and running, and went to do some of my initial start up things. You have to weigh in (and it freaked out on me because I'm at a gain since the last time I was on it). Then you have to do the tests to determine your "Wii Fit Age" - and it was mostly kind since today my tests resulted me an age of 33, which is only +3 years above my actual age, but it did tell me that I need to work on my balance again. Then...it dropped the bomb. It asked me if I had noticed my tummy feeling tighter. (Press A) Followed by, "Oh! Let me think...It's been...121 days since your last session." Really, Wii? REALLY?! Did that sarcasm just come out of you?? Translation: "Is your tummy feeling tighter? Um no, because you're slack." Nice.<br /><br />I'll be honest with you...if I had just a little less self-control, I would have drop kicked a Wii right there on the spot. Here I was, feeling encouraged because I was blocking out some time to do some official calorie burn, and this damn thing was insulting me because it had been 121 days since the last time I used it. <br /><br />And then it hit me. [Enter Ah Ha Moment Here]<br /><br />I had just allowed an inanimate object to discourage me. What in the world was I doing?! So what? <br /><br />Yes, It has been 121 Days since I used my Wii Fit Plus. No, I didn't reach my logged weight loss goal the last time I had logged in. Yes, I was at a four pound gain from that day. Yes, I'm obese. <br /><br />The fact is, my body today is a direct result of my decisions yesterday. So, my decision to get some additional movement today will directly affect my body tomorrow. And my decisions tomorrow will directly affect the future me. <br /><br />Focusing on the past...past bad decisions, past insults, past failures...those won't get me to my goals. In fact, they will most likely hold me back from them. However, focusing on the present will directly affect my future. Deciding to make good choices at this meal, or to pull out the Wii Balance Board, or to go walking with a friend instead of meeting for lunch...making one good choice at a time will get me there. <br /><br />Who knew that an insult from a stupid gaming system could cause such a revelation?! Oh! And I got my 200 calorie burn on! 206, to be exact. Broke a sweat. Did some good stuff for my body. So, Wii, Thank you. I think...Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-30079286943129226912011-01-28T08:27:00.003-05:002011-01-28T09:13:47.409-05:00Confession: I Love To...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZ5V4SF3l013KoZg1kc_GjQL4TNGCZCLxNKCsjipvryh7amKVg2L552dqndcoQ8mgPlsCu10MlEiWjA-ZFh_DUyQxGyPM7WYT8O4rD4uqRU0I-B1HSQ5uzgjEXfVD_kR9SLH-I-UrZSw/s1600/elvgren13.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 153px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZ5V4SF3l013KoZg1kc_GjQL4TNGCZCLxNKCsjipvryh7amKVg2L552dqndcoQ8mgPlsCu10MlEiWjA-ZFh_DUyQxGyPM7WYT8O4rD4uqRU0I-B1HSQ5uzgjEXfVD_kR9SLH-I-UrZSw/s200/elvgren13.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567231479826366146" /></a> Confession: I love to dance. Did you hear me? I LOVE to dance. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to dance. I'm actually not bad at it. Don't get me wrong...I'm no Ginger Rogers, but I can keep a beat and follow some simple steps. I'd love to learn to swing dance. And salsa. And hell, let's be honest, I think it would be cool to know how to work a pole, not that I want to do it for a living or anything. But that's not all I love. I love to play tennis. I love to play volleyball. I love to go hiking. I love to run. <br /><br />But here's the thing: I don't do any of those things. As I sit and reflect on this, the excuses are flying through my head. I'm too out of shape to run and hike. I don't have anyone to play tennis and volleyball with. I get sideways looks and rude comments made when I dance (You would be amazed the things that have been said about me dancing out places because I'm not a size 6. Apparently it's offensive and laughable for a girl my size to want to move her hips.) out places.<br /><br />It's a bit crazy to me that I have allowed my weight, and the stigma that comes along with it, to stop me from doing things that I LOVE to do. On one level, I get it. I would have to or I wouldn't have allowed it to happen. But on another, I'm so perplexed as to how I have allowed this to happen. Common sense should have kicked in year ago: I love to do things that are active. If I do things that are more active, the weight will slowly go away, as well as the stigma that comes with it. When the weight goes away, I'll be more in shape and more able to do the things I love. It's win/win. What have I been thinking?? <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0kNd3ctMi5-FY6rvZXTy95Atcxo2vfOWH4-xsGeJ0ELCWRoLAAiE0pbuzsvAjNzut4ESW_Ah5nemYS6YyRympildEiSro6hDnq3cI30y5kU1HGmgVKf7d8tjFEK3Yss-HpGjQ2bQaw8/s1600/DSC_0311+copy.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 105px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0kNd3ctMi5-FY6rvZXTy95Atcxo2vfOWH4-xsGeJ0ELCWRoLAAiE0pbuzsvAjNzut4ESW_Ah5nemYS6YyRympildEiSro6hDnq3cI30y5kU1HGmgVKf7d8tjFEK3Yss-HpGjQ2bQaw8/s200/DSC_0311+copy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567239460316998850" /></a><br />So, I've decided to ditch the excuses, and start doing the things I love. I'm gonna shake my derriere, and hope I don't hear the comments (and TRY to filter them out if I do). Though I can't run yet, I can definitely walk. No more excuses. No more craziness. Tennis anyone??Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-9895274650243652182011-01-20T13:43:00.001-05:002011-01-20T13:46:10.164-05:00Insides: Exposed<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfU2Nxdb65JF4hi4w8viMbFJvWmsMqJO6pM5zE0OzuY_ecofW9Nc4R0zvqdaYQCUFBNF9l4xG3uDjTl49kxlOunK1W6kd-rKxy0Ag3pPfXuNBTv0Pdb3v_HGGxTDcIafnrBI0kP7XPWE/s1600/xray_pin_up.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 156px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfU2Nxdb65JF4hi4w8viMbFJvWmsMqJO6pM5zE0OzuY_ecofW9Nc4R0zvqdaYQCUFBNF9l4xG3uDjTl49kxlOunK1W6kd-rKxy0Ag3pPfXuNBTv0Pdb3v_HGGxTDcIafnrBI0kP7XPWE/s200/xray_pin_up.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564340982556563122" /></a>Well...here we go again. Take Two. Or is it Take Twenty? Who knows. I've completely lost count. Regardless of the number of stumbles, some of which were followed by enormous falls, this is me...getting back up...again.<br /><br />Emotionally, on a scale of unstable to stable, I would say I'm wobbly. Not that I'm going to leap off a cliff or melt down into a puddle of tears at any moment - really...I'm good. But I think if all of us are being honest, our emotions vary from day to day, and even minute to minute. I'm definitely in that realm.<br /><br />Needless to say, the knee injury I had last summer threw me almost completely off track. I didn't go TOTALLY wild. I did still attempt to make SOME healthier choices. But rather than following an 80/20 rule, I was following more of a 40/60 rule. And since this seems to be the confess your sins and be washed hour, I will admit - I felt abandoned. It seemed as though as soon as everyone realized I was down for the count, they gave up on me. Whether that's real or imagined, it was discouraging. I felt like a failure. Again.<br /><br />One night late this summer, I laid awake at 2 am in the silence with my mind racing. I finally decided it may help to journal my thoughts. I pulled out my blackberry, opened a notepad, and started typing. This is the result:<br /><br />"Sometimes this weight loss journey can be so daunting. I feel as though it is such a mountain to climb, that I may as well weigh 800 pounds. Each day I watch that stupid scale fluctuate, and though it has generally overall trended downward, it is still so frustrating to see the arduously slow pace in which the weight is actually coming off. It seems to be so much work and frustration to be rewarded with a loss of 0.2 of a pound one week, only to gain 0.1 the next. It's maddening to know that my goal weight is years - YEARS - away.<br /><br />The old saying of two steps forward, three steps back seems to come to mind often, though I'm fully aware it's actually more like three steps forward, two and a half steps back. It's those two and a half that haunt me when I lie down at night to sleep.<br /><br />The thoughts slowly start to invade my mind. I recognize them, and I know on some level that they are detrimental to my overall well-being as well as the obvious: my mental health. But they're as impossible to control as they are damaging. Like little voices from within my very soul, they penetrate me from the inside out. "You shouldn't have had that spoon full of ice cream. You're never going to reach your goals at this pace. Sure, you've lost, but you are still heavier than you were even two years ago. What is wrong with you? You have no self-control, no will power, and no ability to conquer this. You're wasting your time. Everyone else knows it. They don't cheer for you anymore. Failure."<br /><br />The irony is, just like the cartoons I loved when I was young, I seem to have the devil on one shoulder, and an angel on the other. So, at the same time as the negative thoughts are sabotaging my self-esteem, my inner hero is also in full swing: "You've come so far. You're still making overall progress. Don't focus on the negatives, but on the positives. You managed to have only a spoonful of ice cream rather than an entire serving. You're doing it. You're slowly making the right decisions. Don't be discouraged. You're getting to your goals. Prove them all wrong. You can do this. Don't give up."<br /><br />The monologues in my head create a constant back and forth argument. I often wonder if I've gone completely mad...having insane all out arguments with myself inside my mind. This can't be normal, right?<br /><br />Regardless of the crazy parade going on in my mind, I'm not giving up. In fact, I have been finding myself to be moderately motivated lately. It is rather peculiar, however; in spite of being motivated and inspired, I still find myself not being fully true to the decisions I know I need to make for success. It's a true testament to exactly how strong of a hold that the sickness (it IS a sickness) has on me, and how deeply the habits and dependencies run. I want to be thin and healthy more than anything. And yet I still find myself consciously making unhealthy choices that keep me from reaching that goal at the pace in which my potential lies. Which leaves me to wonder: is my potential really my potential, or is it an idealistic way of viewing this journey? Am I basing my goals on a purely utopian mind set by not accounting for setbacks, or am I truly just not living up to what I am fully capable of physically and mentally? And I wonder most of all, if I'll ever find those answers. "<br /><br />This journey, that through the stumbles and falls, I'm somehow still on, has wreaked havoc on me mentally. You'd be amazed how crazy I feel sometimes. You'd also be genuinely horrified at the negativity in my internal monologues. To date, I haven't found a way to revert that. I feel like a failure before I ever start. As I type this, it's happening. The Jekyll/Hyde battle is raging. One side of me is optimistic, and the other side is already prepared for my next failure.<br /><br />I have joked that I'm a professional dieter. It is completely ridiculous how much I know about nutrition and exercise. I think I could probably rival some of the most well-trained wellness coaches. This is not a matter of not knowing the right things to do. It's a matter of psychologically finding what is stopping me. It's a matter of determination and diligence. And ultimately, it's a matter of perseverance and success. Here's to hoping that success comes sooner rather than later.Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-36727540522697808812010-05-19T12:08:00.006-04:002010-05-19T13:16:13.495-04:00Cheating<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEsD_qCJycwQkDxx9LBYjEYXV5awrMHYBLkKRJa0OLQpE4TY0BOPmSx7xVeYXxSGjj03ofSX279iSVvVjai1blgl-lf5hcuPJBQVjKB8MmtY5gl6Q0MIIAyX9ue8QTmHXw9dWWoGQpb_Q/s1600/FreshBreeze-1960.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 156px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEsD_qCJycwQkDxx9LBYjEYXV5awrMHYBLkKRJa0OLQpE4TY0BOPmSx7xVeYXxSGjj03ofSX279iSVvVjai1blgl-lf5hcuPJBQVjKB8MmtY5gl6Q0MIIAyX9ue8QTmHXw9dWWoGQpb_Q/s200/FreshBreeze-1960.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473015975208413538" /></a> "Cheat Days" are an interesting topic among the weight loss community, and the feelings on them are varied and go from one extreme to another. I'm not so naive as to think that the way I do things is the only way or the best way, but it's what works for me.<br /><br />So, do I cheat? Yes.<br /><br />One way I cheat, is I allow myself a very small (less than 75 calorie) serving of something sweet. Every. Single. Day. Why? Because I have a HUGE sweet tooth. Most nights after dinner I absolutely crave something sweet. If I don't allow myself a small amount of sweet on a regular basis, then it's inevitable that I will eventually break and I will binge on something ridiculous, and it will be UGLY. So instead, each day I have a starburst, or a Dove Chocolate, or any other "small bite" candy we have hidden in the house (because <a href="http://pinupquest.blogspot.com/2010/04/dear-diary-im-addict.html">remember</a>, I have to have those hidden away so I won't binge). <br /><br />The other way I cheat is I allow myself to eat one guilt-free meal a week. Translation: One meal a week I absolutely don't consider calories. Now, I do set a few limitations with this. For example, if I eat pizza, I have 1 large or 2 small slices and then I have some veggies or a salad to fill me up. Or I'll drink a full glass of water before eating to help facilitate potion control. I also offset a little from days that I have my cheat meal by getting in some extra activity or a second workout. It typically doesn't offset ALL the additional calories, but it does help. <br /><br />I have dieted off and on for 10 years of my life, and this time I don't want to "diet" but find ways to change my lifestyle. There is no way that I will be able to for the rest of my life never eat pizza or Zaxby's again. So the best way for me to make this permanent is treat it the way I would long term. What it boils down to is an 80/20 rule. Eighty percent of the time, I eat healthy choices, whole foods, etc. And twenty percent of the time, I splurge. And that's what is working for me right now.<br /><br />Now for the disclaimer (you had to know there was going to be one). This is the way that I am able to most successfully lose weight to date. It is what is working for me. There are those people who literally can't have a little of something or a cheat meal, because it's a gateway to bad decisions...they just can't quit. What makes weight loss so difficult, is you have to search to find what works best for you, because what works for me, or the masses, may not work for you. It's a trial and error process, and what makes that difficult is you can't give up during the errors. You have to accept failure as part of the process and learn from it to determine what your program should look like. In a phrase, just because cheating like this works for me, doesn't mean it will work for you. And now we know why the opinions vary widely on this subject. <br /><br />The most important thing I can say about cheating, and anything having to do with weight loss, is it's extremely personal. You have to work to personalize a program that works for you. Be willing to try different things, and be willing to fail; because in the end, you will win with a program that helps you reach all of your goals.Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-41050186827241675682010-05-17T08:21:00.003-04:002010-05-17T08:56:40.764-04:00Phase 1/Round 1 Weigh In and Measurements<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-rlt_2FqXsOKcDMHTVLH9eRk9QEVz86gP4_CEPtQtqsOWOW6n4ma1V5nTpQoenNo0fBz6zxj0vLJuXNEAkgcEcgU4nS2fO7T_LBWEdOvLWA7dhSKS85pQSyuuhRh4VWjLjGpG1ONjCg/s1600/PinupMeasuringTape.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-rlt_2FqXsOKcDMHTVLH9eRk9QEVz86gP4_CEPtQtqsOWOW6n4ma1V5nTpQoenNo0fBz6zxj0vLJuXNEAkgcEcgU4nS2fO7T_LBWEdOvLWA7dhSKS85pQSyuuhRh4VWjLjGpG1ONjCg/s200/PinupMeasuringTape.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472215973830922722" /></a> PHASE 1: DONE! Here are all my weigh in and measurements:<br /><br /><em><strong>Phase One and Monday Weigh In Stats:</strong></em><br />P90X Start Weight: 280.0<br />Last Weight: 271.4<br />Current Weight: 269.5<br /><br />Weekly Loss: -1.9<br />Total P90X Loss: -10.5<br /><br />Start BMI: 42.3<br />Current BMI: 41.1<br /><br /><strong><em>Measurement Stats:</em></strong> <br /><em>Waist:</em><br />Start: 49.25<br />Current: 43.5<br />Loss: -5.75<br /><em>Hips:</em><br />Start: 59<br />Current: 54<br />Loss: -5<br /><em>Chest:</em><br />Start: 49<br />Current: 46<br />Loss: -3<br /><em>Right and Left Arms:</em><br />Start: 16<br />Current: 15.5<br />Loss (combined): -1<br /><em>Right and Left Thighs:</em><br />Start: 28<br />Current: 25.5<br />Loss (combined): -5<br /><br />Total Inches Lost Phase 1: -19.75<br /><br />I know that's a lot of information to take in, but it's all pertinent information to show the progress of my journey. I couldn't ask for more exciting news than the progress that is shown not only on my scale but in my measurements. I can't wait to begin Phase 2 of P90X today and see what the next 30 days holds for me! I'm doing it! I'm doing it! I'M DOING IT!!!Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-4056609068341194922010-05-14T08:50:00.003-04:002010-05-14T09:16:31.325-04:00...Like Taking Candy From A Baby<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKpqKquiQSJWfwQhU_J-B4LV_pSq4sHqfkP5vElbNpmyVnE1i6cci2ysMConpfVPIcOmAMIt76CxQpyE3iFy2WlCby4QJMg3ByexCu-8CiMh9HGh24DmxXAx-T5oK6MEX9htt4-XB7WI/s1600/elvgren$aircondition1950.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKpqKquiQSJWfwQhU_J-B4LV_pSq4sHqfkP5vElbNpmyVnE1i6cci2ysMConpfVPIcOmAMIt76CxQpyE3iFy2WlCby4QJMg3ByexCu-8CiMh9HGh24DmxXAx-T5oK6MEX9htt4-XB7WI/s200/elvgren$aircondition1950.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471107617229234370" /></a> Sometimes this journey is hard, and I have definitely done my fair share of being transparent about those tough moments. However, if my entire jouney was tough moments, stumbling, and downfalls, I would ultimately get discouraged and give up. Weight loss definitely has its ebb and flow, and I have officially landed in an ebb!<br /><br />At this particular moment in my journey, things are easily falling into place. I'm eating lean proteins and whole foods. I'm choosing whole grains over flour. I'm steaming vegetables. I'm using portion control. My workouts are coming easily. I'm accomplishing things that I haven't been able to accomplish before. I'm seeing improved flexibility and stamina. My motivation is through the roof - and so is my energy. I look forward to getting my sweat on every day. I'm pushing harder and farther. Everything is AWESOME!<br /><br />Granted, at some point in time, the other shoe will drop, and I will inevitably find myself in the flow, and struggling to push forward. But at this point in time, I am so enjoying the ebb!Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-66741157442928826012010-05-13T11:31:00.005-04:002010-05-13T11:59:34.075-04:00Not Feelin' The Love, Mr. Cable Man.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2iBKvZTBVv_7eAxilpxa-FL-0eNZuI_u1fMMpu8PFDFSXc4P3UvbmuByxzldPryzDQ3EIoRwpEZAuIZPH33XbeYISG9r6-Y8JY8d7QW2-xYN-EJU_MEDFYdN_NQIPtnSmTcx-WhF9iko/s1600/elvgren_have_a_heart.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2iBKvZTBVv_7eAxilpxa-FL-0eNZuI_u1fMMpu8PFDFSXc4P3UvbmuByxzldPryzDQ3EIoRwpEZAuIZPH33XbeYISG9r6-Y8JY8d7QW2-xYN-EJU_MEDFYdN_NQIPtnSmTcx-WhF9iko/s200/elvgren_have_a_heart.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470778367019573794" /></a><br />So, my internet service is supposed to be 16 megs...and for the past week or so, it's been running at 0.6, or 0.4. Which has meant, of course, that it was slower than dial up, and EVERYTHING timed out. Talk about frustrating.<br /><br />I've had posts, some of which I'll save for a later date, but I will condense all the pertenant information into one blog post here.<br /><br />Monday Weigh In Stats:<br />P90X Start Weight: 280.0<br />Last Weight: 272.4<br />Current Weight: 271.4<br /><br />Weekly Loss: -1<br />Total P90X Loss: -8.6<br /><br />Concerning my loss, I have officially crossed over 40 pounds down since I first started working to lose 4 months ago! I am so excited and proud at the progress that I am making, and it's awesome to know that I'm doing it - I'm REALLY doing it! Sure the journey has been a battle, and yes, I have had ups and downs. But I am making the overall progress that I have been working toward, and who can complain about that?!<br /><br />This week is my fourth week of P90X, and therefore, recovery week. I'm really enjoying this week, and I'm VERY excited for my weigh in, measurements, and photos on Monday. I know that I will be able to see changes in my body, because I can feel the changes taking place in my body. I am getting stronger. I have more energy. I'm hungrier (but making better choices!). But the biggest change? I'm making time for myself, which is huge. I definitely have always been one of those Mommies who put everyone in the family and everything else first. I am making a conscious effort every day to work out and SHOWER (Oh my GOSH! A daily shower!! No small feat with a tween, a preschooler and an infant!) and just take a few moments for my health and sanity amongst the chaos. <br /><br />This journey is bringing about a whole new mindset, and that is why I am going to ultimately be successful. I don't feel guilty for putting myself in my line of priorities. I don't feel guilty for "overlooking" the kids for an hour each day to do my workouts. I don't feel guilty for telling my family and friends that I'm losing weight, and need to be conscious of what I'm eating. I'm embracing the changes that this new lifestyle is bringing with it. <br /><br />Onward and Upward, and continuing to press play. :)Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-83349680837901170792010-05-07T08:24:00.003-04:002010-05-07T08:40:58.945-04:00Dear Enthusiasm, Please Come Back....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii7VlzZxnNOjcTgFIpDzr3t4BxEZqaTPmpGxWK-YTiUOdB7vSzN0bGjdY2mjMNM72TM-gCYtPiwcOGrNe3LH1mHgyAtv9HbuoCHFWcBGMqhuyhAuOKclQp52bxVTs3Fj64kBFsRIGPZW8/s1600/Come+and+Get+It.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 160px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii7VlzZxnNOjcTgFIpDzr3t4BxEZqaTPmpGxWK-YTiUOdB7vSzN0bGjdY2mjMNM72TM-gCYtPiwcOGrNe3LH1mHgyAtv9HbuoCHFWcBGMqhuyhAuOKclQp52bxVTs3Fj64kBFsRIGPZW8/s200/Come+and+Get+It.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468503198985119122" /></a><br />So, I wouldn't describe myself as lacking in motivation, because I'm definitely not ready to give up. However, I would say that I'm going through my first loss of enthusiasm stage. <br /><br />A weight loss journey, especially a long term one, definitely has phases. You go through moments that you're really inspired and ready to take on the world. You go through moments that it seems to come really naturally to follow your plan and make healthy choices. You have moments that you can still make the choices, but it's a difficult and constantly conscious effort. You have moments that you make mostly good choices, but there are moments that you just can't seem to get it together. And there are moments that you completely fall off the wagon. <br /><br />While I haven't quite fallen off the wagon, I'm definitely having to work at this right now. Every food I'm not supposed to have seems to be screaming, "You haven't had me in SOOOO long!" and my workouts are more like chores. <br /><br />Basically, I need an attitude adjustment. I've got to find it within myself to not be so "blah" about this journey and regain my enthusiasm. Here's to hoping I can figure that out SOON!Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-7203102047338757172010-05-04T09:32:00.003-04:002010-05-04T10:37:14.646-04:00Sweet Dreams<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ndd3QB6SP3lRPJ5Wb3tJA7kWLR7I74EeEPq8dzwKiTpGinREvapIRDFoo6JhGBQm-mKguB-mQZXT4woVeuDKUNfkJfobBzbMVZsAF0PGzM6pOMwTwMb9b3s_saZOP0RVymNeolijSa4/s1600/elvgren-Colette57.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 166px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ndd3QB6SP3lRPJ5Wb3tJA7kWLR7I74EeEPq8dzwKiTpGinREvapIRDFoo6JhGBQm-mKguB-mQZXT4woVeuDKUNfkJfobBzbMVZsAF0PGzM6pOMwTwMb9b3s_saZOP0RVymNeolijSa4/s200/elvgren-Colette57.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467407523440009202" /></a><br />Sleep is evading me, or I'm evading it. I'm not sure which is the case, but either way, I am not sleeping enough. <br /><br />I have a few outside circumstances that are keeping me from sleeping. I have a four year old, who is having some trouble sleeping lately. He has gotten into a really wonky sleep cycle due to nightmares. We're working with his pediatrician with a couple of different trial and error based scenarios, but in the mean time, it means things are difficult. I also have an almost 4 month old, who wakes up usually once, and sometimes twice, during the night. <br /><br />In addition to the things I can't control, I am having trouble winding down every night, and I'm finding myself staying up until I'm falling over, which is typically around midnight or 1:00am. Combine that with being woken up at least four times, and the alarm going off at 6:30, and you get one exhausted me.<br /><br />I'm acutely aware of how important sleep is to a healthy lifestyle, and specifically a weight loss journey. This can be confirmed in many places and articles available on the internet. One such article from about.com states research from The National Sleep Foundation has found that inadequate sleep:<br /><br /><blockquote><br />•interferes with the body's ability to metabolize carbohydrates and causes high blood levels of glucose, which leads to higher insulin levels and greater body-fat storage.<br /><br />•drives down leptin levels, which causes the body to crave carbohydrates. <br /><br />•reduces levels of growth hormone--a protein that helps regulate the body's proportions of fat and muscle.<br /><br />•can lead to insulin resistance and contribute to increased risk of diabetes<br /><br />•can increase blood pressure<br /><br />•can increase the risk of heart disease <br /><br />Even in young, healthy people, a sleep deficit of three to four hours a night over the course of a week has a triple-whammy effect on the body.</blockquote><br /><br />I am working to find ways to make up for my lack of sleep each night. I am going to start working to get to bed at a decent hour, because at the very least I have control over that aspect of my sleep. I really feel as though this is affecting my journey. Granted, I'm losing weight; but I'm definitely looking to maximize my results, and losing sleep will definitely prevent that. <br /><br />So, I'm working toward another goal, of at least 7 hours of sleep a night. It's a difficult goal, but my health is worth it. I am worth it. I'm worth this.Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-71187672765783988132010-05-03T09:03:00.004-04:002010-05-03T09:34:53.593-04:00Monday Weigh In<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrePG9TTqQ9H01u4uG6i_gisQYSQaLFQW1CTuYwj4RoJULjMuBZr8d9VAeNThgwHO0LhTOSSey4wSVUxmH9vWlh0vkTVykmkCbZoWoGPLNoC3Bj74jX-qcH7yx_0EgkHAqmtIvVe_X9Ms/s1600/Figures+Don%27t+Lie.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 155px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrePG9TTqQ9H01u4uG6i_gisQYSQaLFQW1CTuYwj4RoJULjMuBZr8d9VAeNThgwHO0LhTOSSey4wSVUxmH9vWlh0vkTVykmkCbZoWoGPLNoC3Bj74jX-qcH7yx_0EgkHAqmtIvVe_X9Ms/s200/Figures+Don%27t+Lie.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467028864037874018" /></a><br /><em><strong>Monday Weigh In Stats</strong></em><br />Start Weight: 280.0<br />Last Weight: 274.3<br />Current Weight: 272.4<br /><br />Weekly Loss: -1.9<br />Total Loss: -7.6<br /><br />Here's how last week breaks down:<br /><br /><em><strong>Diet:</strong></em><br />My diet this week was inconsistent. I had a lot of decent choices, but all-in-all, I would say the choices were good, but not great. There were some circumstances where I didn't have a whole lot of choices, and I did the best I could with what I had. I had one entire day that I almost completely derailed. I had traditional cookout food, and MAJOR sugar overload. The next day, I had almost zero energy until well into the afternoon. I couldn't believe what a difference the food from the day before had on the way I felt. It was pretty amazing.<br /><br /><em><strong><strong>Activity:</strong></strong></em><br />My activity level this week was also slightly inconsistent. I did miss two days of my P90X, but I had one day that I doubled up (unrelated to the missed day) in an attempt to deal with stress. I had some trouble with energy levels in a couple of the workouts, so I'm working to experiment with what I eat beforehand to find the right combo to have enough to fuel the workouts. I did find that I was able to stretch farther, and accomplished more of the workouts than I was able to last week, so that's a WIN!<br /><br /><em><strong>General Week and Journey Overview:</strong></em><br />On a scale of 1-10, I would give this past week a 6. I still made some great decisions for my body and my health, in spite of a few pitfalls along the way. I feel like I got a decent amount of weight loss considering all that has gone right and all that has gone wrong. <br /><br />I am now two weeks completed in my journey to health and weight loss, and I can feel and see some results already. I took my two week progress photo last night, and can see a few subtle changes. Overall, I'm pretty impressed with how things are going thus far, and I can't WAIT to see what the future has in store for me. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTo3S1HZkVoFP1PGgACaeYdbeEDbIkZJINb7mzq3WOnemln2AKAQFOjuoGYQjh0kO_TZBWZEakDT_eGstxuMzy2wv4bw1JrUu1Sa0JUtm4SuCiqKsxHwDIuiqWFrFXq_FiNovHdmxlqzA/s1600/April+to+May+Profile.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 162px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTo3S1HZkVoFP1PGgACaeYdbeEDbIkZJINb7mzq3WOnemln2AKAQFOjuoGYQjh0kO_TZBWZEakDT_eGstxuMzy2wv4bw1JrUu1Sa0JUtm4SuCiqKsxHwDIuiqWFrFXq_FiNovHdmxlqzA/s200/April+to+May+Profile.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467036444678278658" /></a>Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-54897390762706437002010-05-02T11:49:00.004-04:002010-05-02T13:19:55.059-04:00The Cost of Weight LossA common conversation heard among the weight loss community is how much m<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ddhVIPUzKq9Vx7jo-7V_QqfIRCsYmeHjA9XYJS6aUtbQv5x9Mx9nxxHncZ1CiwE5GVyrwESaZP1rTAj2sI1x_D71Oq8ze8lL5Q1DWInRm6vSIoao7O9b4x42Rjm2QwJYaoGKRa8lOx0/s1600/gerwab.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 256px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466700516709343218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ddhVIPUzKq9Vx7jo-7V_QqfIRCsYmeHjA9XYJS6aUtbQv5x9Mx9nxxHncZ1CiwE5GVyrwESaZP1rTAj2sI1x_D71Oq8ze8lL5Q1DWInRm6vSIoao7O9b4x42Rjm2QwJYaoGKRa8lOx0/s320/gerwab.jpg" /></a>ore expensive it is to eat healthy than to eat unhealthy. Processed foods, boxed dinner kits, sugary cereals, and yes, even fast food, are all much, much less expensive than whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean cuts of meat.<br /><br /><br />It's true. The cost of weight loss is high. Finding the extra money in a tight budget to afford the healthier foods is sometimes very difficult. There are the costs of workout systems, exercise equipment, jogging strollers, yoga mats, vitamins and supplements, running shoes....<br /><br />There is a huge financial burden associated with weight loss, but there is more. Food is not just fuel, in spite of what we would like to imagine. Let's face it: food is also social. And finding a balance between weight loss and a social life can be difficult and at times impossible.<br /><br />There are those in our lives that are almost ridiculously supportive. When they have cookouts or gatherings, they are prepared for us to come, and they have healthy alternatives available just for us. They've prepared grilled chicken and have steamed or sauteed vegetables in addition to the burgers, hot dogs, and potato salad.<br /><br />There are those in our lives that are supportive. When they have cookouts or gatherings, they prepare for their guests as a whole, but they are fully expecting that we will be showing up, chicken and vegetables in hand, and will help us get our food prepared.<br /><br />And then, there are those in our lives who say they are supportive, but what they really mean is they're supportive as long as we don't change around them. They have their cookouts and get- <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">togethers</span>, and they expect us to be there, but they expect us to eat what they have prepared. They get genuinely offended if we look at the food available and decide that it isn't food we need to be eating for our journey. They say things like, "There's no dieting for my party!" and "One meal isn't going to hurt you."<br /><br />I am so incredibly grateful for those wonderful people in my life who are in the first two groups. I'm completely unsure of how to handle my loved ones who fall in the third group. I adore these wonderful, amazing people, and as a person who loves to cook and loves to entertain, I can understand why they are proud of the things they have prepared and would like everyone to partake in them. But, as a person who is trying to lose weight and trying to get myself to a healthy lifestyle, I am completely perplexed by their attitudes. It is because I have always taken a "just this one thing won't hurt" attitude towards life that I am where I am with my weight, and if I don't change, I will continue getting the same result. It is unclear to me why that isn't an understood concept across the board.<br /><br />I'm still trying to find the best way to handle these kinds of situations. The best solution I have come to so far is having a small amount of what is offered, so as not to offend, and trying to work around as much as possible by eating before and after the gathering. I will continue to work toward my goals and I will continue to look for ways to make this all work together with my life.Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-26253321920012891132010-04-30T09:11:00.004-04:002010-04-30T10:18:43.987-04:00Dear Diary, I'm An AddictF<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxVN9tyN9oBp7OgH0lpLoZn4q4A93pCcSngWK9RJaEWKTKrgqULj1APSyvzz-8-yit4Do7Juh7dU5B5L0e9f7Pu854PD24ecxL9mPkd7JndlXQUIAf6gIsksG-4EqrVLq-7PVj6KmSLE/s1600/Gil_Elvgren_-_thinking_of_you.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 238px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465917603960576338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxVN9tyN9oBp7OgH0lpLoZn4q4A93pCcSngWK9RJaEWKTKrgqULj1APSyvzz-8-yit4Do7Juh7dU5B5L0e9f7Pu854PD24ecxL9mPkd7JndlXQUIAf6gIsksG-4EqrVLq-7PVj6KmSLE/s320/Gil_Elvgren_-_thinking_of_you.jpg" /></a>ood Addiction - It's a touchy subject.<br /><br /><br />There are some people who believe that food addiction is a phantom disease - something made up by all the fat people to excuse their bad habits. I sincerely wish that was the case.<br /><br />Food addiction is a struggle, as with any other addiction, and it's not just a struggle for overweight people. It's more than overeating, though overeating and binging is a huge portion of it. Food addiction also brings with it a total obsession with food, and a huge amount of guilt and shame. It usually carries a back story, the ever-looming question of, "Why do I do this and what am I trying to "replace" or "accomplish" with food?"<br /><br />As a food addict, I have to make very serious adjustments to my life to accommodate the addiction, because it will spiral out of control very quickly if I'm not overly cautious. So what does overly cautious look like for me? Well...<br /><ul><li>Having my husband hide all sweets in the house (really well, because I absolutely will look for them) and rationing them out so I can't binge</li><li>Planning out any meals at restaurants before going to a restaurant, so I'm not tempted by the high calorie/high fat meals and foods once I get there</li><li>Not allowing the purchase of high calorie/high fat/not nutritionally dense snack foods, even for my children, because I will get into them</li><li>Working diligently to not wait too late to plan dinner, because if it gets too late (later than 4 or 4:30 in the afternoon), I will resort to fast food, delivery or take out</li><li>When dealing with a stressful or emotional situations, I make a very diligent attempt to fill my time with exercise, or some other distraction if exercise isn't possible, to avoid emotional binge eating</li><li>Never allowing myself to go more than 3-4 hours without food, because if I get overhungry, I will overeat. </li><li>Keeping a healthy, car-friendly snack, such as a fiber one bar, on me at all times, in case I get caught out and need to eat, because if I get hungry, I will run through a drive-thru, and will not make healthy choices.</li></ul><p>In addition to making these, and other adjustments, to my daily life, I am also having to do a lot of soul searching and looking within myself, because as noted above, this is a mental struggle. And if I don't work to identify why I am addicted to food, I will never fully recover from my addiction, regardless of my weight. And just as with any other addiction, it will be something I will have to keep in constant check, because it will be very easy to end up right back where I am with my weight without ever realizing what happened if I become too complacent.</p><p> </p><p>Is it difficult? Very. </p><p>Is it conquerable? Without a doubt. </p><p>Will it ever completely go away? Unfortunately, probably not. </p><p>Is that okay? It is with me. </p><p>Why is it okay with me? Well, here's the thing: I'm not thrilled about having this struggle in my life. However, I am so much more than my struggles. I will not be defined by my addiction. It may be a part of my life, for the rest of my life, but it is not who I am. Sure, I will have to be on my toes, make more adjustments than most, and continue working to make sure I'm not eating for any reasons other than to fuel my body; however, my life is so much bigger, grander, and more awesome than a few extra steps to ensure I'm as healthy as I can be. </p><p> </p><p>I'm a food addict. And though that affects my journey, it won't cause me to fail my journey. I will overcome this. I will succeed. </p>Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-27909603571828866212010-04-29T07:58:00.004-04:002010-04-29T08:22:12.848-04:00Elementary, My Dear Watson<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHVs7sUtCPEq7aGbo5kcp9ovEQNlBpB2TYA2B7Y8mOZEHLEtAna1yBoa9VKLlc9ctXbzB6_qOFIkY8XcRWFmXyRJBQL0yTPajE-hhRZquXqUn4w-EMvEoJU_cAvmpnsioy87_O3Ug8u6g/s1600/untitled.bmp"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 238px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465528699073291586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHVs7sUtCPEq7aGbo5kcp9ovEQNlBpB2TYA2B7Y8mOZEHLEtAna1yBoa9VKLlc9ctXbzB6_qOFIkY8XcRWFmXyRJBQL0yTPajE-hhRZquXqUn4w-EMvEoJU_cAvmpnsioy87_O3Ug8u6g/s320/untitled.bmp" /></a><br /><div>If I've heard it once, I've heard it a hundred times: Read the labels on what you put in your mouth. But, for some reason, we all seem to think that nutrition, calories, and fat are logical enough that we don't need to do that. WRONG.</div><div> </div><div>I am finding in this journey that one of the most important things that I can do is to READ THE LABELS. I'm obnoxious about nutrition, specifically calories, these days. However, it's an <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">important</span> key to my success. </div><div> </div><div>How obnoxious, you ask? Well, I'm keeping up with my caloric intake throughout the day. I know precisely how many calories I've consumed, how many I approximately need for each meal, and by the end of the day, there are no surprises or freak outs. What makes me able to do this? You've got it - labels and nutritional information on the foods I'm eating. </div><div> </div><div>A perfect example of this in action and things not always being as they seem, I had an extremely busy day recently, and absolutely had to run through a drive-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">thru</span> for lunch. Burger King was on the way, so that is where we chose to go. I starting thinking and made the "obvious decision" to have the grilled chicken sandwich. I pulled out my blackberry and did the research on the nutritional information - 400 calories with no sauces. I decided to check one other option before ordering, and looked up the Whopper Jr. with no mayo and lo and behold - 290 calories. Who knew?</div><div> </div><div>There are many websites that provide the nutritional data from chain restaurants. I have found that looking at the menu online at home, and researching nutritional information before ever getting to a restaurant makes my success at that meal significantly easier. Planning everything out ahead of time allows me to not be quite as tempted by the things that I'm choosing not to eat, as well as helping me make sure that I'm making the best choices. </div><div> </div><div>Reading the labels and nutritional data does take a little extra time, but the extra few minutes that I put into researching what I'm eating in addition to my working out is definitely paying off in big ways. I'd say that I am more than worth the extra efforts.</div>Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-32105057357583444092010-04-27T15:11:00.004-04:002010-04-27T15:48:14.210-04:00Somehow Already Stronger<div>Week 2, Day 2 of P90X Lean<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmE45xFld0DorTTkunQ7N2Sr1pxwtzsc40oqSvTibNBeHGncCKMhBuORIZoFBKPA-pG9lpLNN7s8f4kNAZBwyBb975bCIGNnhctJ_U7UoLM7eJviqMCky5Q9kp3pv3ol1IPGL9sOjA7nQ/s1600/shaping-up.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 264px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464897248965598690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmE45xFld0DorTTkunQ7N2Sr1pxwtzsc40oqSvTibNBeHGncCKMhBuORIZoFBKPA-pG9lpLNN7s8f4kNAZBwyBb975bCIGNnhctJ_U7UoLM7eJviqMCky5Q9kp3pv3ol1IPGL9sOjA7nQ/s320/shaping-up.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Today's workout was CardioX, which is a little sampling of several of the other workouts. After only eight days completed, I'm surprised at how much more accomplished I am in a lot of these exercises. I'm finding myself able to push a little harder, stretch a little further, and complete a little more than the last time I attempted it.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The first week that I did the workouts, I did everything I could just to get through the dvd, and I didn't really keep up with what I specifically could or could not accomplish, but I do remember feeling like I was marching or jogging in place around 10% of the time. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>This week, I attempted every single exercise, and was able to accomplish at the very least a modified version of every single exercise with the exception of The Dreya Roll, which my gimpy knee completely prevents. So for that one minute of the workout only, I marched. For every other minute, I was doing the movements, in one form or fashion. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I'm continu<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmy4AGFItSWOTzpVHb-ZKMjkNfOU7pNPxJUjEhCVMo9zK4G-z25FTJX6dm19BH0MUMstpVG5e_NaSAZbYsi0XVLFVTcu5pkEMqCLHFG0rHA7r5rvFzqQV-dkcA1RTNcTLQ2KRtzJU4pdE/s1600/pet-animal-rubber-bands.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 194px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 120px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464903235339499746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmy4AGFItSWOTzpVHb-ZKMjkNfOU7pNPxJUjEhCVMo9zK4G-z25FTJX6dm19BH0MUMstpVG5e_NaSAZbYsi0XVLFVTcu5pkEMqCLHFG0rHA7r5rvFzqQV-dkcA1RTNcTLQ2KRtzJU4pdE/s320/pet-animal-rubber-bands.jpg" /></a>ing to look for new ways to encourage, push, and motivate myself to work harder, eat healthier, and consistently make better choices. One tiny thing I've done, is I have added a small pink bracelet to my right wrist. My children are on board with Silly Bandz mania. One of the sets we have acquired is the "pets" set. I have taken the little pink pig from that set (seen right) and added it to my wrist, just as a visual reminder that nothing tastes as good as thin feels. </div><div> </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmy4AGFItSWOTzpVHb-ZKMjkNfOU7pNPxJUjEhCVMo9zK4G-z25FTJX6dm19BH0MUMstpVG5e_NaSAZbYsi0XVLFVTcu5pkEMqCLHFG0rHA7r5rvFzqQV-dkcA1RTNcTLQ2KRtzJU4pdE/s1600/pet-animal-rubber-bands.jpg"></a> </div><div>I'm also trying to think of some visual way to mark the pounds lost on this journey. I'm toying with something along the lines of a paper chain or marbles in a jar. But I'm still brainstorming around it. I'm open to suggestions if anyone is a creative bug out there. :)</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>I continue to look forward to what tomorrow brings. I'm doing this. I'm REALLY doing this. And I'll say it again and again ... if I can do this, <strong>YOU</strong> can do this.</div><br /><div></div></div>Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-15328185343925206012010-04-26T11:25:00.006-04:002010-04-26T12:13:28.149-04:00Monday Weigh In<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-53p3EabpK0pQA6xOc1uIhfShajMUwnsh1zRYs4ELYWCPlgP38E1C3rgLCZZysuXRAeWkndc-YkiurXgSB471FvS2Gn1-cGyXU0T6w5SepQnyM-juVoQnEYjodKb2iUlBQC9tMpV7qrI/s1600/A+Weighty+Problem.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 242px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464468535838259602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-53p3EabpK0pQA6xOc1uIhfShajMUwnsh1zRYs4ELYWCPlgP38E1C3rgLCZZysuXRAeWkndc-YkiurXgSB471FvS2Gn1-cGyXU0T6w5SepQnyM-juVoQnEYjodKb2iUlBQC9tMpV7qrI/s320/A+Weighty+Problem.jpg" /></a><strong><em><u>Monday Weigh In Stats</u></em></strong><br /><div>Start Weight: 280.0</div><div>Last Weight: 279.2</div><div>Current Weight: 274.3</div><br /><div>Weekly Loss: -3.9</div><div>Total Loss: -4.7</div><div></div><div></div><div>Here's how last week breaks down:</div><div></div><div><strong><em><u>Diet</u></em></strong></div><div></div><div>For the most part, I made very good choices with my diet, sticking mostly to whole foods, lean proteins (chicken, fish, egg whites), vegetables of multiple colors, and whole grains. I did have a total of two "cheat" meals for the week, on separate days. I had <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Zaxby's</span> for lunch one day, and I made homemade beef <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">stroganoff</span> one night. I'm working my way toward only having one cheat meal a week, but all-in-all, I'm pretty pleased with having two for this past week. </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><strong><em><u>Activity</u></em></strong></div><div></div><div>Other than some moderate to heavy cleaning this week, the only activity that I had was P90X Lean. This has been a bumpy road, but it's more than obvious that the activity that I'm getting with the set is proving to be enough to help me shed the pounds. If I had to describe my first week with P90X at my weight, I was say I survived. I'm rather anxious to see where I will be at the end of this week. </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><strong><u><em>General Week Overview</em></u></strong></div><div></div><div>All told, I'm pretty proud of last week. I definitely have a lot of room for improvement, which totally sets me up for my goals for this week. I absolutely cannot complain about 4.7 pounds in a week. And in other news, I did measure my waist yesterday and discovered a 2.25 inch loss on it already. So, plain and simple, what I'm doing is working. My very first mini goal is 28 pounds, which is 10% of my body weight. At the end of week 1, I'm right at 17% done with my first mini goal. If I continue at this pace, I should reach my first mini goal within 6 weeks. So, I'd have to say at the end of this week, I am "Happy Dance" Happy. And a Happy Dance is just that much more activity done for this week. ;)</div><div></div><div></div>Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-42784083047877435902010-04-25T11:03:00.003-04:002010-04-25T11:51:23.777-04:00A Fourth Done with Phase OneOne week into P90X; almost four into my journey: Check.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmK2YQTs_jCab32A1HuHtvh4zQ0aNWGcaV1k81zy0c4cZsKg73LBTnCK7uLFm-qkYCQLq2PUG6NgFKBKBj5tLLNeGbZTG0LbC8t5H9qvUjNJ3w388e1EUEDjn9KfIT9TbdpVBkpBcKa4/s1600/A+Spicy+Yarn.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 222px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464091705323443426" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmK2YQTs_jCab32A1HuHtvh4zQ0aNWGcaV1k81zy0c4cZsKg73LBTnCK7uLFm-qkYCQLq2PUG6NgFKBKBj5tLLNeGbZTG0LbC8t5H9qvUjNJ3w388e1EUEDjn9KfIT9TbdpVBkpBcKa4/s320/A+Spicy+Yarn.jpg" /></a> <div> </div><div>I'm feeling a lot of emotions about my journey thus far. I've had some moments that I'm SO proud of, and some that I regret. I've had some moments that I can't believe I was able to accomplish what I did, and some that I know I won't be able to accomplish for quite some time. I did some things that definitely worked toward reaching my goals, and some things that worked against them.</div><div> </div><div>But all-in-all, I would say that in spite of the slip ups, failures, and unaccomplished things, I am stepping in the right direction. If I had to choose one emotion to sum up the journey thus far, I would have to say PROUD; because in spite of everything, I am actively pursuing a healthier lifestyle. I am actively pursuing weight loss. I am actively pursuing being more active. I am actively pursuing making consistently healthier food choices.</div><div> </div><div>Week One of P90X Lean: Survived. And I couldn't be more excited and proud. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">More so</span>, I can't wait for the day that I am no longer "surviving" these weeks, but I am completely DOMINATING them - and it's coming! </div><div> </div><div>Week Two, here I come. I fully intend to make you better than Week One. </div>Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-56433817609899480392010-04-23T11:38:00.001-04:002010-04-23T11:44:18.855-04:00Foodie Friday really does eat 5 times a day!!So here we are, is it Friday already? My entire abdomen is still sore from doing Brazilian Butt for the first time yesterday. Shouldn't my bum be sore? Oh well, I'll take flat abs, too!<br /><br />I promised some food ideas for eating those 5-6 meals a day for this week's blog. Now I am a working mom, so I literally have to take some time in the mornings and at night to pack my cooler for the day (yes, I really do this lol).<br /><br />I posted my breakfast recipe I make in my first blog-that's my first "meal of the day" and at only 250 calories, it keeps me full until at least 11, which is awesome. My 2nd meal can consist of any of the following combos, and are all around 200 calories:<br /><br />South Beach Meal Bar<br />Lowfat Cheese stick and crackers<br />Banana with Nutella (YUMMM!!!)<br />cottage cheese and jam<br /><br />This is what I eat about a half hour before I leave for the gym on my lunch break-I prefer to eat lunch after I get back from the gym, to hold me over so I don't over-snack in the late afternoon.<br /><br />My lunch almost always consists of a turkey sandwich on rye (rye has proven to keep you fuller longer) with lowfat mayo or hummus, and lots of spinach and tomatoes. A real belly filler coming in at only 300 calories! <br /><br />My afternoon snack can be any of the following as well:<br />Handful of mixed nuts-Planters makes good varieties for digestion, energy, etc<br />100 cal bag of popcorn<br />Cheese stick and crackers (I could eat this 5 times a day, seriously)<br /><br />Then for dinner, I'll try to hold off until about 6:30 to eat, which is just late enough so I don't have night time munchies. I'll make this a bigger meal with lean protein, lots of veggies and a carb. Also, believe it or not, pasta has a lower glycemic index than even brown rice, so I've been incorporating whole grain pastas into our dinners lately, and indeed it is true. Glycemic index works:<br />http://www.glycemicindex.com/<br /><br />Soooo...try it for a week-I know it requires getting up a bit earlier to prepare this, and it's not as easy as going through the drive through, but it's SOOO worth it! I have recommendations for smart drive through choices as well, but, that's another time.<br /><br />Here is what I'm going to be cooking up tonight-in honor of my recent trip to Jamaica, where the food is so wonderful, tasty AND healthy!<br />http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/grilled-jerk-chicken-with-mango-cilantro-salsa-recipe/index.htmlShannon Cannellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12486307296121136359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-6097550039338807902010-04-22T12:51:00.005-04:002010-04-22T13:10:47.911-04:00Just Keep Swimming"When life gets you down, do you wanna know what you gotta do? Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming." <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxQxfkmDri5J48dM0AgIWGHyF5IvpB2iQkZNSm1PH34va57cfoqnSMLSDRg2D7ya_yx20hb3Xdz8PbQ3jNBpW7mewXlWj2NpRtW96UU-FRYKJPuKzTwtSELcbKS_Yr1fHx_BEL8N87dY/s1600/Taking+A+Chance.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 191px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5463009445152195506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxQxfkmDri5J48dM0AgIWGHyF5IvpB2iQkZNSm1PH34va57cfoqnSMLSDRg2D7ya_yx20hb3Xdz8PbQ3jNBpW7mewXlWj2NpRtW96UU-FRYKJPuKzTwtSELcbKS_Yr1fHx_BEL8N87dY/s320/Taking+A+Chance.jpg" /></a><br /><div><br />Yesterday was Day 4, and I rocked it!<br /><div></div><br /><div>I did my Yoga X, and I was actually feeling pretty good, so I decided to push <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">forward</span> and also do a set of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kenpo</span> yesterday evening! I felt great, and I am totally proud of myself for pushing through. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I was very afraid that my body would hate me for doing so much yesterday, but the fact is, it isn't any more sore than I already have been. I slept hard (when my household allowed - sleep is a bit of a commodity with a baby in the house), but other than that, I didn't really feel any negative effects from the double day. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I am still having some issues with my gimpy knee. I'm going to start wearing my soft brace during my workouts to see if the additional support will help. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I would say, I have officially survived this blip in my journey, and I continue to trek forward. </div></div>Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-7747054645877131302010-04-21T08:11:00.003-04:002010-04-21T08:55:12.198-04:00Sore Muscles, Energetic Days, and Hunger Pangs<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkxYSZfhMTCPcVzQmxUBNOs9KO0OiqMhyphenhyphenpB4pJRdV204gRkgiC7dKmldBLpt_kEAYushp09vgdTRU6Lw5L_fJsQGjeLdwNUGZ-vWe9cjLEszHedAfmMmmevbRBY1zZys4FBiuZOZWyPWQ/s1600/elvgren_smoke_screen.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 239px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462563825863923314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkxYSZfhMTCPcVzQmxUBNOs9KO0OiqMhyphenhyphenpB4pJRdV204gRkgiC7dKmldBLpt_kEAYushp09vgdTRU6Lw5L_fJsQGjeLdwNUGZ-vWe9cjLEszHedAfmMmmevbRBY1zZys4FBiuZOZWyPWQ/s320/elvgren_smoke_screen.jpg" /></a>Well, I'm coming into Day 4 of P90X Lean, and I am FEELING it!<br /><br />Since beginning my P90X journey, I have discovered muscles that I had no idea existed. I'm sore in the expected places - abs, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">glutes</span>, quads, calves, and all the arm muscles - every single one of them. And I'm sore in some really unexpected places, like the tops of my feet (new this morning), around my rib cage, and in my arm pits. I would have thought that the sore muscles would hold me back in my workouts, but the amazing thing is, once I get warmed up, they aren't sore at all; so it doesn't affect my workouts whatsoever, which is definitely a welcome discovery.<br /><br />I've also noticed that I have more energy. Now, this isn't like a blatantly obvious energy boost like you see on vintage cartoons when a character drinks from a bottle labeled "pep" and suddenly can lift school buses. This was a more subtle change, and I almost didn't even notice it. It showed up in little ways, like when I am cleaning, I don't have to take as many breaks; and in the evenings I'm not quite as completely drained. But, it's there. And I would imagine that will only get better as I continue.<br /><br />Another big difference I'm noticing is I'm HUNGRY, like all the time. I have to be honest here: I always thought all these fitness gurus were out of their gourds talking about eating 5-6 small meals a day. I mean, really, who is hungry enough to eat every 2-3 hours? And who has the TIME for all that craziness, anyway? But I have found the word "meals" is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">deceiving</span>. I am eating every 3 hours or so, because if I don't, I get absolutely famished. No kidding. I'm talking, "my stomach is gonna eat my liver if I don't eat <em>right now</em>" famished. So I've started incorporating light snacks into my day. Snacks like a serving of raw baby carrots (14 carrots) with a wedge of Laughing Cow cheese and five <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Triscuit</span> Crackers - a snack that has a grand total of 155 calories, and has proteins and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">carbs</span> to carry me through to my next meal and is actually amazingly filling.<br /><br />All-in-all, I'm really amazed at the immediate changes I'm noticing in how I feel. I can't fathom what kinds of changes I have to look forward to in my future if I'm feeling this many changes less than a week into it. Whatever they are, they're patiently waiting for me, and I can't WAIT to reach them.Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-67252607530616181882010-04-20T08:10:00.003-04:002010-04-20T08:48:28.398-04:00I Get Knocked Down, But I Get Up Again<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcb-qgQKg-CrVUv5bjAZLE05M7M421AQJ9hPNDM0B6MjZV5vMSpw8p7vPDYCvVPhOL-hCRLjG-2TSRLy0Kuu0Y13vtrKRR8EUKEJotMMjpR18pVypftUbzNiyWTZN02_fFig_y3wiIpjs/s1600/A_Knockout.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462192935624585218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcb-qgQKg-CrVUv5bjAZLE05M7M421AQJ9hPNDM0B6MjZV5vMSpw8p7vPDYCvVPhOL-hCRLjG-2TSRLy0Kuu0Y13vtrKRR8EUKEJotMMjpR18pVypftUbzNiyWTZN02_fFig_y3wiIpjs/s320/A_Knockout.jpg" /></a><br /><div>So, last week I only had my Monday Weigh In blog entry. And this week I missed my Monday Weigh In. What's up with that? Have I given up? Am I losing steam? In a word: No. However, I definitely hit a small stumbling block in my journey.</div><div> </div><div>Last week, my grandmother passed away. And as I've made evident in previous posts, I'm an emotional and stress eater. And I had the perfect opportunity to "feed" that problem. As a strong part of Southern Hospitality, though I do understand it is done in some other parts of the nation as well, it is an absolute given that food will be provided for the family of the lost loved one through the funeral. So lunch and dinner was provided, every day, for several days, with enough leftovers for all the family to bring some back home. </div><div> </div><div>The problem is, I'm in the south. And of course, as was expected, foods like potato salad, macaroni salad, pasta salad, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">macaroni</span> pie, fried chicken, country ham, buttered corn, dinner rolls, and no less than a half a dozen different varieties of dessert appeared as our meals. Country cooking at it's best was available at my finger tips - in large quantities. And there were really no other options. So, I ate it. And by the end of things, I was not just indulging; I was overindulging.</div><div> </div><div>So on Sunday, I did a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">preweigh</span> in, and was not thrilled, but not surprised. On Monday, I weighed in, and was two pounds heavier than I was Sunday morning, which all told put me at 279.2. Discouraging. So I thought back...What did I do Sunday? I had an awesome food day and I started P90X. Was the two pounds just now catching up from the week or was it due to water retention from my muscles starting to be worked out? Who knows.</div><div> </div><div>But here's the deal: weight loss is a journey. And the theme of the journey is a Japanese Proverb: Fall seven times; stand up eight. </div><div> </div><div>Some may say that I'm showing weakness by stumbling and setting myself back so early in my journey. I'm here to say, that's when most failures happen. The beginning of the journey is about establishing a new lifestyle and teaching yourself new habits - and that's no easy task. I've spent ten years establishing and solidifying the lifestyle I've been living. It's not surprising that two weeks in, I had a relapse. And I can't tell you the number of times I have started a weight loss journey, made it to right here, stumbled, and accepted failure. Translation: I gave up. What is going to make any journey successful is seeing it to the end in spite of falling down. </div><div> </div><div>This is me, dusting myself off, picking myself up, and continuing my journey. This is me doing Day 3 of P90X. And this is me setting new and tough challenges and goals for myself, because if I shoot for the moon, I may miss....but I'll still hit the stars! </div>Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-34923525161379175952010-04-18T11:22:00.003-04:002010-04-18T11:57:37.573-04:00P90X - Day 1Day One P90X - Completed!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFgZ4DqRLvqqaoL5QSt4_8H-Dc5PpCAW1wq-CtOs1nZnG11XvS6n8Or0e5kU_Xr1Dk5MHp1nHW7F13fl_UV9Trwjb1Ee-4etyAQY4kM6CqInTldZ11grs-xKUZ__y7ZPwe8AXaWbR7L0I/s1600/WeightControl.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 256px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461498465038648626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFgZ4DqRLvqqaoL5QSt4_8H-Dc5PpCAW1wq-CtOs1nZnG11XvS6n8Or0e5kU_Xr1Dk5MHp1nHW7F13fl_UV9Trwjb1Ee-4etyAQY4kM6CqInTldZ11grs-xKUZ__y7ZPwe8AXaWbR7L0I/s320/WeightControl.jpg" /></a><br /><div> </div><div>When I tell people that I am doing the P90X program, I typically get some variation of the same response: Good luck with that....It's very hard and it will kick your rear end. Not so politically correct translation: <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ummm</span>, fit people struggle with that program, girl. What are you THINKING?!</div><div> </div><div>So you wanna know my very transparent and honest opinion of my first day with the program? Here you go: They're right. However, there's definitely a but to that statement.</div><div> </div><div>Fit people can definitely benefit and struggle and have to push through this program. I can definitely see how a year from now, I can be 100 pounds lighter, and still be totally challenged by this program. BUT (told you there was a but), with modification, and doing what my body is capable of doing, and pushing myself to the point that is my limit, I was able to complete about 80 - 85% of Core <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Synergistics</span> on my very first attempt. </div><div> </div><div>Where I struggled may not be where you struggle, but was expected for me personally. I struggled with all variations of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">pushups</span> and planks. I had to not go quite as deep with lunges and stretches on my left side due to a weak knee. However, every bit of everything I accomplished today was tons more than I accomplished yesterday. </div><div> </div><div>In all sincerity, considering where I am starting, and the weight at which I am starting, I found myself surprised, if not shocked, that I was able to complete as much as I was able to. Here's the thing...P90X is a real workout. There is nothing easy about it. It has to be intense to provide the results that it does. But, don't let the hype scare you away from it, because it CAN be modified to fit your abilities and THEN it has plenty of room to make it more and more intense to continue to work your muscles in a way that makes you stronger and leaner and fitter. </div><div> </div><div>I'm looking forward to Day 2, Day 30, Day 90...and I'm looking forward to deciding which version of the 90 day program I will be starting for Day 91. Goals = within reach. If I can do it, YOU can do it. </div>Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-23904661023096715512010-04-17T11:09:00.000-04:002010-04-17T11:10:24.456-04:00Kim's CornerEating right, nutrition-always seems to focus on what we are eating and cooking for dinner, no? What about the rest of the day? You can't just survive a transformation in your diet by simply changing up what you and your family eats for dinner. It's 24/7 (as I write this, I was up at midnight last night eating chips and queso, good job).<br /><br />In our society, most people skip breakfast, then either get fast food or fraternize with co-workers over buffalo wings at lunchtime, then go home and eat a "healthy dinner" and think that's enough-it's not! Your body's metabolism needs a kick start early in the morning to get going all day-that is how our bodies operate. Studies show that people who eat a good breakfast WILL lose weight faster than people who skip. Why? Because when you fast overnight and then through the morning, your body goes into 'starvation mode'. It goes back to our hunter/gatherer ancestors-your body thinks food supply is in short demand, so it holds on to any food intake as if you won't be eating again for a while. Hence, skipping breakfast, when you do finally eat lunch, your body will hold on to it for fat. I see so many women making that mistake of skipping meals, thinking that will help them lose weight-it might for a day, but it will backfire on you in the long run. Still want to skip breakfast? I didn't think so.<br /><br />The key to keeping your metabolism up is to eat small meals, 5 or 6 times a day. This keeps your blood sugar and your energy at a steady rate all day long. I try to eat my breakfast every morning by 8:00 or so. For all you moms out there, treat your eating like you would a toddler-snack time at 10, lunch at 12, snack time at 3, and dinner at 6. I know it may seem like you are eating all the time, but that's exactly what you should be doing. Any one of my given "meals' is not a full plate of food, it's more like grazing. I promise if you do this, you will see instant results in weight AND energy. Even if you do have the occasional midnight queso fest...<br /><br />Next week-I'm going to write about exactly what kinds of foods you should be eating throughout the day.<br /><br />Here's what I get up at 5 am every morning and make for my husband and I for breakfast-(if I can get up, you can too-I've never been accused of being a morning person)<br /><br />1 whole wheat english muffin<br />3 eggs<br />3 egg whites<br />2T milk<br />picante sauce<br />lowfat shredded cheese<br />salt and pepper<br /><br />Just scramble up the eggs and milk, divide in 2, sprinkle on cheese and picante sauce! I give each of us a half of an english muffin each. I throw these into tupperwares for us to bring to work. It's only 250 calories each and loaded with protein to keep me full. Well, until 10am ;-)Shannon Cannellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12486307296121136359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-79750618400848426222010-04-13T11:15:00.004-04:002010-04-13T11:50:31.515-04:00Weigh In, One Day Late<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghbWW6cFVgOEaUIX0QQ0D4imMOfnEpcAr158uGrV3gVjsOJ3vbPhGh5DGOp-6LAEQF1MJVH8-gvP9397Gt-_oMuBpXMkP8pFF89t38KhG4Z1h0kx6v3mhNDekuMyjOwW_CHXJBs-2V5VI/s1600/Figures+Don%27t+Lie.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 248px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459641190836581730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghbWW6cFVgOEaUIX0QQ0D4imMOfnEpcAr158uGrV3gVjsOJ3vbPhGh5DGOp-6LAEQF1MJVH8-gvP9397Gt-_oMuBpXMkP8pFF89t38KhG4Z1h0kx6v3mhNDekuMyjOwW_CHXJBs-2V5VI/s320/Figures+Don%27t+Lie.jpg" /></a>All <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">righty</span> then. I did my official post-vacation weigh in on my regular Monday, but due to craziness in life, didn't get around to posting it until today! Here we go:<br /><br /><br /><div></div><div></div><div>Start Weight: 280.0</div><div>Last Weight: 276.2</div><div>Current Weight: 276.6</div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Weekly Weight Loss: +0.4</div><div>Total Weight Loss: 3.4 pounds</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Well, there it is. I was pretty pleased that over my vacation, in spite of pitfalls, some bad decisions, and the water retention that I always experience when travelling and walking, I only had a 0.4 of a pound gain. I fully believe that when I have my weigh in next Monday, the scale will reflect a small additional loss, because I did experience a bit of a fluid retention issue, which would reflect on the scale this week, but not next. </div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>In other news, I managed to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">reinjure</span> my bad knee on the trip. I'm babying it, and today I'm going to do some stretching and some minor things to try to get me over the hump, but ultimately that is postponing my start of P90X for a short period of time. I'm pretty bummed about the whole situation, but I'm just gonna have to roll with the punches just a bit.</div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Only 6 more days until my next weigh in! I can't wait!!</div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div>PS - I peeked at the scale this morning...good things are happening! ;)</div>Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-67465912977128104342010-04-08T08:02:00.004-04:002010-04-08T08:24:40.035-04:00I Feel the Need...the Need for Caffeine<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YEfZPwwznfatgT1MeTwudfa88vanuoQBm2PuiDFgTv1xtyXikFVwHsGPx2tVkCJWteF4Y6n7dq2gdXn83uijTzoQPcKW7vtXPBiMRxJ3c1eaFtvSt0HzQodITBsMczftMqVe3aqiWUXw/s1600/200px-Mountain_Dew_logo_svg.png"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 147px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457741072472759986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YEfZPwwznfatgT1MeTwudfa88vanuoQBm2PuiDFgTv1xtyXikFVwHsGPx2tVkCJWteF4Y6n7dq2gdXn83uijTzoQPcKW7vtXPBiMRxJ3c1eaFtvSt0HzQodITBsMczftMqVe3aqiWUXw/s320/200px-Mountain_Dew_logo_svg.png" /></a><br /><div>Back on December the 31st of 2009 I took my last drink of caffeine. I was one that would actually start first thing in the morning drinking Diet Mt. Dew and then continue to drink it off on throughout the day.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Well on December 31st that all changed and I made a commitment to give up caffeine and now I drink somewhere close to a gallon of water every day.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Now I will say that first week was rough. I was fortunate enough to not experience any of the headaches that typically come with giving up <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">caffeine</span>, but every evening that first week I would feel like I had hit a wall. Just felt run down and exhausted. After that first week though, I have never felt better! Believe it or not a lot of the morning pain that I would experience from playing basketball or some other activity the day before went away.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I have now begun the exercise program called P90X. I am now going on my second week in the program and granted it is a tough program, but well worth the effort. I have changed a lot of my eating habits and again have never felt better!! </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So if <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">caffeine</span> dependence is an area you struggle in I encourage you to try and kick the habit! You will feel a lot better if you do and it will be worth it in the long run!!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Decide. Commit. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Succeed</span>. Bring It!!</div>J Normanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07570060999812194982noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4241612723883353043.post-12582686014176528502010-04-06T18:43:00.004-04:002010-04-06T19:07:43.801-04:00Destination: Vacation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4IUSJbV5omjNGhLpNrFwvCuwD5ojOCOeHIzXTMC2g9qoArwSQb2xiFaX3MTBNbWJF4NUPr2EhFdtDPoiV3XhbEIFgFpxJTPFu4JQWZMggB9PpYCZ1gQDrGYKCZRJyw938EbD9DqthlVI/s1600/Elvgren~Finders~Keepers.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 242px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457159949786503602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4IUSJbV5omjNGhLpNrFwvCuwD5ojOCOeHIzXTMC2g9qoArwSQb2xiFaX3MTBNbWJF4NUPr2EhFdtDPoiV3XhbEIFgFpxJTPFu4JQWZMggB9PpYCZ1gQDrGYKCZRJyw938EbD9DqthlVI/s320/Elvgren~Finders~Keepers.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Test Number One - Easter weekend: PASSED.<br /><br /><br />Test Number Two - Spring Break Vacation: IN PROGRESS<br /><br />I'm leaving tomorrow for our Spring Break Vacation. We'll be out of town for five days. The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">destination</span> spot we have chosen is a location that we frequent, and it's a spot that, as with most vacation spots, is known for delicious foods, and I'm not talking about amazing <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Brussels</span> sprouts.<br /><br />Admittedly, this is going to take some courage, and will power, and manipulation. I'm not going to be able to go and have cocktails, steak and dessert. But, with the right balancing of calories, I may be able to have water, a small lean steak and a few bites of a dessert - and still feel like I'm getting to take full advantage of the foods that I love to enjoy while away.<br /><br />I refuse to go on vacation and feel deprived. But <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">more so</span>, I refuse to go on vacation and set myself back in my journey. I am taking my scale. I'm watching my weight. I'm going to adjust as necessary. I'm making sure I get plenty of activity in addition to the much needed relaxation. And yes, I am going to make mostly healthy choices.<br /><br />I have set my boundaries. I'm approaching this vacation with an 80/20 rule. 80% of the time, I will make awesome choices, stick to lean proteins, complex <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">carbs</span>, and stay away from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">over-processed</span>, bleached white flour, simple sugars, etc. And I'm allowing 20% wiggle room, to permit those little indulgences that I simply can't resist. I will control those by using good old fashioned portion control.<br /><br />I'm not sure how frequently I'll be posting during my vacation, but Monday is weigh in day and I'm SO EXCITED for it to get here already! That scale won't lie about my time away - and for me that's a beautiful thing.Deannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17632910145992707738noreply@blogger.com0