Friday, September 30, 2005

Feeling thinner

                                    

I just got off work and am really tired.  I feel like I have dropped some more weight so will weigh myself when I get up.  I hope I am right.  I ate pretty good last night.  It is hard sometimes to switch my eating habits when I work nights.  I have trouble getting in enough calories.

7. The older you get, the tougher it is to lose weight, because by
then your body and your fat are really good friends.

  I include the above just because I thought is was funny.  Well here it is 8 hours later and I weighed myself and am the same.  I knew the rapid weight loss of last week wouldn't last long but I sure was hoping for just 2 little more pounds to get me under 210.  Oh well, the way I feel I bet I will be there by this time next week.  Sometimes you can just tell.  I have been doing my exercise while meditating thing for the last 2 days.  It is mostly tightening up your muscles, holding while you do your breathing and slowly releasing the muscle and the stress out.  Isometrics used to be a hot thing and I think I can feel some benifits from it.  I have a difficult time exercising on my work week and really can't give up my meditation time because I need it with the stress at work to defuse me, so I decided to combine these and see if it could work for me.  I can now feel different muscle groups, something new for me, so do each group at a time.

  Rick is making some low fat chicken noodles for supper tonight.  Yummy on a cold day like this.

                                                    

Thursday, September 29, 2005

Exercising

                     

 I have decided to quit Curves and go to 4 Seasons full time.  As a full time member I can take water aerobics everyday, work out on the equipment and use the walking track.  I could even take Karote or tennis.  My husband is going to become a member also.  Curves is a wonderful place and it got me exercising again, but I feel like I need more and it won't cost much more doing the gym with the 2 of us as I am paying now.  In the 10 successful weight loss tips the only one I wasn't doing was pumping iron.  With my arthritis I have to watch it but there are things I could do to strengthen my bones more.

 I got my washer and dryer today.  You can tell I'm old when new appliences thrill me. 

  I bought a bunch of green beans and blanched them so I could freeze some.  I love fresh green beans.  For supper tonight I am having turkey broils, wild rice and green beans.  Back to work tonight. 

  Below is the 1916 Roseville Tourist Jardiniere I sold to pay for my new washer, dryer, freezer, and monitor. It is very rare and quite possibly one of a kind as they were hand painted and the decorations differed slightly on them. 

       

Tuesday, September 27, 2005

Scary moment on our bike ride

   We just got back from another bike ride.  My muscles were objecting the entire time.  About 3 miles into the ride I started getting palpitations in my heart and some chest heaviness.  I rested abit and rode some more and it came back along with some chest pain.  So here we are 4 miles into the trails by the river and I am worried I may be having a heart attack.  I am going to add some aspirin to my pack from now on.  We rested again and my husband was getting pretty nervous I tell you.  Then we started on and went slow and easy.  No racing today.  We got to the part where we could cut the ride short and did today.  I wonder if it was to much the water aerobics and the ride when I didn't do as much exercises this week.  Finally much to my relief we made it to the car.  After about 20 minutes everything settled down again but it still feels like my heart is going to start fluttering.  Guess I will take it easy the rest of the day.  Old age raises its ugly head again.

  I feel better about my Dexta Scan now after reading this site. http://www.susanlovemd.com/community/flashes/hotflash020901.htm

  I won't worry anymore and by following the lifestyle I am I should be OK.

Glorious Bikeride

  Water aerobics started out slow for me today.  My upper arms felt so heavy.  The 2nd hour went much better and after class I talked to them about joining the gym full time.  I think I will give up Curves and join the gym.  Curves is a wonderful wonderful place, don't get me wrong, but if I join the gym I could do water aerobics everyday and work out on the weight machines and the one thing I am not doing that I should be is pumping iron.  I want to turn this fat into muscle.  I am in somewhat of a panic state since my Dexa Scan.  At the rate my bone is deteriorating I could be crippled up in as few as 4 years.  I am taking 1500 mg of calcium a day and with increasing my workout and losing more weight I hope to prevent it.  How in the world did I let myself get this bad?

  I had a delcious lunch of spring lettuce salad with shredded deli turkey, low fat of course, pine nuts and Anne's organic raspberry dressing, Yummy.  For supper I am making low fat chicken fajita's and I am having another salad.  I have a bunch of peppers to use up.    I am pretty pleased with how healthy my diet is these day.  I never was much of a junk food eater or fast food eater but I didn't get enough fruit and I love pasta so I ate lots of that.  Rick has been really after me to have spagetti but I am not sure how to make it light enough and still be good.  I used to put hot italian sausage, pepperoni, hamburger, garlic and peppers in the sauce.  It is so good that way.  I would try turkey but I would miss the italian sausage.  Instead of noodles I could use spagetti squash.  Garlic bread is something I could lighten up with low fat margarine, reduce calorie bread and low fat cheese.  I will have to go to the light and tasty site and see if they have any good recipes.

  We are going to touch up the paint in the laundry room today and then go for another bike ride.  I am trying to talk Rick into joining the gym with me.  I can't understand why he doesn't want to.  He likes being physically active.  I have until Thursday to talk him into it.  I will be having my washer and dryer delivered this week.  So excited.  I found some old clothes I had packed away from when I lost weight before.  Instead of getting rid of them I will now have something to wear when I get smaller.  They are a size medium so I have a ways to go.

Monday, September 26, 2005

Quiet House

  The grandchildren and my son are on their way home.  The house seems so quiet, nice but sad also.  I was pretty impressed with myself because it used to wear me out taking care of them when they lived here 6 months ago.  Now I have the energy to keep up with them.  I outlasted everyone actually.  I did eat some foods off plan and found myself doing what so many mothers probably do, finishing some food on their plates rather then wasting it.  Except for pizza I pretty much kept them on the same plan as we eat.  I get the impression they eat at fast food places quite abit.  They are pretty fussy eaters but loved the fruit and didn't seem to mind the no fat milk or low fat cheese on the wraps. 

                                          

   I am dying for some exercise though and Rick is getting the bikes ready as we speak.  I need a long ride and then maybe curves later.  My muscles feel slack.  I am thinking of quitting curves and joining the gym full time.  I want to start using some weight machines and I like the idea of the indoor walking tract for this winter.  It is closer also.  Since I found out how much bone loss I have suffered in just 2 years I am determined to reverse the damage or at least not let it get any worse.  Back on tract.  The great thing about my plan is it is so easy to get back in the groove.

                                       

     Oh glorious bike riding.  Soaring along the bike path with the heavy scent of spicy leaves overhead and the crunching of drying leaves underneith.  It is amazing that I am able to go this fast and far using my own 2 legs.  Who would have thought an overweight 51 year old could move this fast.  I just love riding my bike.  The water along the path was so still and blue and the wind in my face.  My thigh muscles burning as I pump to go faster and faster.  We did 10 miles and I really needed it after the week.  I still haven't weighed myself, I am afraid it isn't going to be pretty.  I am going to water aerobics today shortly and will weigh after that.  I would like to ride again this afternoon.

We always hear "the rules" from the female side.

We always hear "the rules" from the female side.

Now here are the rules from the male side.

these are all numbered "1" ON PURPOSE!

1. Men ARE not mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides.
Let it be.

1. Shopping is NOT a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one:
Subtle hints do not work!
Strong hints do not work!
Obvious hints do not work!
Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a problem. See a doctor.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument.
In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you won't dress like the Victoria's Secret girls, don't expect us to act like soap opera guys.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one.

1. You can either ask us to do something or tell us how you want it done.
Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1. Whenever possible, please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings.
Peach, for example, is a fruit, not a color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will Be scratched. We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing", w e will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine...Really.

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation, or golf.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

1. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight;


But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

Sunday, September 25, 2005

Dieting with young children around

 

                                         

  One thing I remember now is how hard it is to diet with young children in the house, mostly because no matter what you fix them to eat they don't finish it and you hate to waste it.  The dog has been making out pretty good this weekend and is following the kids around hopeful for falling scrapes.  I have not been successful at staying on my plan as well I should have and will have to do double time to make up for it.  I have not had time to update my food journal, so while the kids are gone for awhile I will see how badly I blew it yesterday.  It really is the first time I have done bad since I started my plan.  I knew I was going to have cake and ice cream yesterday for the birthday party and had maybe the size of 1/2 of a business card size.  Not to bad.  Had a sandwich yesterday with meat and cheese but not low fat cheese and horrors, white bread on half.  Ate pizza for supper but only one piece.  I am trying to do some counter pushups and tai chi when I can and can only hope running after an extremely busy 2 year old will be burning some calories.  I am missing like crazy my exercising.  We did some walking at the are fair where I bought the neatest bird bath, but not enough.  Oh well, I don't see my grandbabies enough and I know I will get rid of the bad effects of this weekend.  The kids have liked the pears and low fat pudding I bought so I pointed out to my son that just little changes now may help prevent them from getting as heavy as us.  My oldest son is also very heavy, takes after me, and eats the wrong foods.  I worry about him as he has high blood pressure but he won't do anything about it.  My daughter in law is starting to diet and workout so maybe she will start cooking light for them.  I am going to send them a subscription to light and tasty magazine.

Friday, September 23, 2005

Dexa Scan

   I got my dexa scan today to measure my bone density.  I expected it to be great because of all my exercising, but it wasn't.  Compared to 2 years ago my back has gotten alot worse and my hips are slightly worse.  They said my back is bad enough that a fall could result in a fracture.  Guess I can't crash my bike!  I am suppose to take 1800 mg of calcium a day and he hopes with my increased execise that we should see some improvement in 2 years.  I hope so.  I have calcium supplements but wasn't very good about taking them.  Guess that will change.  He said my back is worse then they usually see in woman my age, but it can improve so that is another goal I will work on.  All these reminders that I am getting older.  2 years ago it had only been a few months since I went through menopause after my surgery.  You do lose more bone after menopause.

  The kids are out visiting the other side of the family and we went to the store to get healthy snacks and food to have around. 

 

Thursday, September 22, 2005

The Grandkids are Coming

  They were suppose to be here at 12:30 but of course the dry spell has broken and their flight was delayed due to bad weather in Minneapolis.  I just talked to him and they are in a lay-over for 3 hours.  Sounds very scary with 2 young kids.  Thats why parents should be young.  I can't wait to see them.  It has been 4 months!  I probably won't get much chance to update while they are here, but I do plan on going to curves.  Also tomorrow I get my Dexa scan.  I am expecting to see great improvement with my bones because of the exercising I am doing.

  Will I am back on my blood pressure med.  Last week it started creeping up and then shot up to 178/102 and stayed there.  I had so much edema in my legs and the pills always helped with that so back on them I went.  My doctor will just shake her head.  I am always doing my own thing.  I think that is why I lost so much weight this week, most of it was fluid as my ankles and feet look better then they have for awhile.  My blood pressure right now is still 152/102 so it will take awhile for the pills to kick back in.  I wonder why it is up again.  All the stress?  Work has been a killer but I have been doing my meditation and am getting better at my Tai Chi.  I have been doing Tai Chi for seniors and have never been graceful so it is a challenge for me.

  I am making low fat chicken and dumplings for supper tonight and I made sugar free pudding for treats for the kids.  I bet they won't even know it is sugar free if I don't tell them.  This is one you actually cook so it is hard to tell and I have low fat whipped cream and more fresh strawberries for on top.  Really pretty.  Gabe really pretty much will eat anything put in front of him, but Mackenzie eats like a bird.  I have lots of fresh grapes and fruit around.  No candy or cookies, but Mackenzie and I will make brownies like we always did together.  I won't have any though as we throw in extra chocolate and chips so it was really decadent.

Wednesday, September 21, 2005

30, 30, 30 pounds gone forever!

                                           

               

  To be completely accurate, 30.6 pounds this morning.  I weighed in at 211.4  This week has been total amazing how fast it is dropping off.  Once again I had my husband weigh himself to see if it was accurate and he said he is up because he weighed with clothes on today.  In 12 pounds I will be under 200 for the first time since 1988. I will save my next charm for that.  I wonder what I should get?  I am hopping for joy today.  Just to show the difference in another way.  My starting BMI was 41.5 which is severely obese.  My current BMI is 36.2 which is obese.  Who would have thought I would be happy to be obese.

  I heard from my Doctor today and she is just now sending in my pre-determination papers.  I thought they would have been sent about 2 weeks ago.  The insurance company usually takes about 5 weeks so it looks like I have longer to wait to find out about my surgery then I thought.  Darn.  Work will not be happy if I am off at Thanksgiving.  If I am approved that is.

  My Turtle charm for 30 pounds lost signifying slow but steady wins the race.

Tuesday, September 20, 2005

Neat facts

TOP 10 STRATEGIES
FOR PERMANENT WEIGHT LOSS

1. Exercise - It's nothing new, but exercise is probably the most important predictor of whether you will succeed at long term weight loss and weight loss maintenance.

2. Pump Iron -Miriam Nelson, a Tufts University researcher, showed that a group of women who followed a weight loss diet and did weight training exercises lost 44 percent more fat than those who only followed the diet. The basic equation is this: the more muscle tissue you have, the more calories you will burn.

3. Keep a Diary - Keeping a food diary can be a huge asset in successful weight loss.

4. Stay Focused on Healthy, Not Thin - Many people become more successful at long term weight loss when their motive changes from wanting to be thinner to wanting to be healthier.

5. Find Out What's Eating You - All too often overeating is triggered by stress, boredom, loneliness, anger, depression and other emotions.

6. Get Support - A big key in long term weight control comes from receiving encouragement and support from others.

7. Watch Your Portions - With the advent of "supersize" meals and increasingly huge portions at restaurants, our concept of normal serving sizes is a distant memory. Be mindful of the amounts of food you consume at a sitting.

8. Lose Weight Slowly With Small Changes -It is important to realize that the more quickly weight is lost, the more likely the loss is coming from water and muscle, not fat.

9. Slow Down -That's because from the time you begin eating it takes the brain 20 minutes to start signaling feelings of fullness. Fast eaters often eat beyond their true level of fullness before the 20 minute signal has had a chance to set in.

10. Eat Less Fat, But Do It Wisely -To many, the message to limit fats implied an endorsement to eat unlimited amounts of fat-free products. Just to clarify, fat-free foods have calories too. In some cases fat-free foods have as many calories as their fat laden counterparts.

    I do all of the things listed above but pump iron.  I am not sure if my arthritis could take it and to do it effectively I would have to join a gym where they had a trainer to help.  I simply can not afford the gyms.  Wouldn't it be great if there were some low cost gyms around with donated equipment to help offset the obesity epidemic in the states?  I have noticed that the thinnest people are the wealthier people who can afford to have fancy bikes and exercise equipment and they are able to either have a personal trainer or join a gym.  Since I am the sole support in my family Curves is the best I can do.  My water aerobics is $20 for 8, 2 hour sessions.  That is $60.00 a month already and it would take another 40 to join our gym.  I may look into the Y as they are more affordable.  However there are ways to pump iron at home.  Use cans or old milk bottles filled with water. Small weights aren't extremely expensive and my son is thinking of buying a bowflex in which case I will just use his.  It can be done.

This information in full is from, http://www.thedietchannel.com/weightloss.htm

Visit the site as they have a huge amount of useful information.

Chlorine, Yik

   I just got back from 2 hours of water aerobics.  I felt stiff the first hour but had worked out the kinks by the 2nd hour and the hot tub felt great.  Came home, showered and took a nice swig of coffee and almost spit it out.  It tastes just like chlorine.  After being in the water that long you soak it in your pores.  I can't believe it is healthy.  I showered at the gym and then again when I got home, but I still reek of chlorine.  The girls at work have said they can smell it on me hours later.  That is with 2 showers and perfume.  Pretty strong stuff.

   I weighed right before my shower and am now 213.2.  So close to being down 30 pounds.  In my challenge I was committed to losing 40 pounds and didn't make it but must admit to being pretty darned pleased with 30.  The new Fall challenge is starting and I committed to 20 pounds.  That is more realistic, but I hope I don't slack off.  Really at this point nothing can stop me now.  I am so ingrained with my new eating habits.

  2 more days and I will be hugging my grandchildren again.  I have missed them more then words can say.   Below are pictures of Mackenzie and Gabe.

                                              

Monday, September 19, 2005

Weight

                                                                        

  I just got ready for my shower and the scale said 213.4.  On, Off, On, Off, take my shower, check again, still the same.  I have my son weigh himself to see if his weight is the same, it is!  Yikes another pound!  Love it, love it.  That makes 28.6 pounds I have lose.   I got the blinky above at this really cool site.  It is free to download as long as you do it the right way.  She has some great ones for weight loss. Check out the site in my links section.  Not sure what I will make for supper tonight.  Maybe grill some chicken.  I need some lettuce as I didn't get a salad for 2 days and am craving some.  At 3 I am going to curves and workout. 

                                     

Sunday, September 18, 2005

I haven't been this tired in a long time.

            

This stress at work is taking its tole on me.  My BP is back up there and I am tired to my bone marrow.  My eyes hurt from looking at the computer screen for 12 hours and I have a headache.  However.....I turned down pizza last night and stayed with my low cal, low fat meal.  Work is depressing enough without adding a bad plan day.  At my age I rarely wish time would fly, but right now I can't wait until next month when this is all easier.  The good news is my son and grandkids will be coming next Thursday for a visit.  I can't wait to see them all.

   I woke up and weighed in.  214.4,  WOW,  maybe stress is good for me.  I knew I was getting ready to drop as that is how it has been working lately.  I slept good and am ready for another day.  It will be better and I am going to meditate before work.  I am going to do my Tai Chi and knee exercises but that will be all I can get done before work.

Saturday, September 17, 2005

Mental Exhaustion

   I just got off work and it has been a very stressful and difficult 2 days so far.  We went live on computer charting and there is so much to remember and so many glitches.  It took me over a hour to get my IVs in because the last shift had forgotten to chart theirs.  I finally broke down and cried and I am not much of a crier.  I realize this will get better and a month from now I will be a pro at this, but right now it totally is awful.  My head hurts and my eyes hurt from looking at a screen for the last 12 hours.  I have however stayed with my plan and even did some knee exercises that Robin was nice enough to send me.  Thanks Robin.  Now to meditate ( I really need it today). and the sleep so I can do it all over again at 7.




Thursday, September 15, 2005

My new Monitor

  I got my new monitor yesterday right before our ride.  It is wonderful  My old screen was a 15" and this is a 19".  It is like looking at a TV and the color is wonderful.  My pictures looks great again.  The other one was so dark I couldn't see pictures well at all.  I am very happy with it.

   We did go on our ride yesterday and our son went with us.  He was pretty impressed that I could do it especially since my bike makes it twice as hard at his $2000.00 bike.  I have to pedal twice as much.  I told him I needed to do twice as much work to lose all this weight.  It was a little tame for him, no big hills but it is so pretty and nice out there it makes up for it.  Anyway I had a great time.  We did as far as our speed also and were averaging 9 mph which I realize sound slow but it pretty good to keep up for 10 miles.  The weather is perfect right now.

  Today I went to water aerobics.  I got both of my suits and finally have a modest coverage on the top.  The one still has a skirt and I like to hide my thighs but I hate how they float around you so I will pin it down next time.  The other one doesn't have a skirt so I may order some swim shorts to wear with it.  My mother in law says I worry to much about it, which is probably true but if I am not comfortable I don't work out as hard.  I worked my butt off today.  It feels wonderful.

  Back to work tonight so my biking, water aerobics and other fun things are off until I am off again.  We started doing all of our charting on computers at work while I was off, so I am dreading going back to work tonight.   Its hard teaching this old dog new tricks I guess.

  I had a slim fast for breakfast and then salmon on a bun for lunch.  I really blew it with my salmon as I wanted to put some dill in with it but had forgotten to put the cap on with the holes the last time I used it.  I ended up putting about 5 tsp of dill in with the salmon.  You want a little salmon with that dill lady?  No way to get it all out, so I just ate it that way.  I also had added some old bay and cajun spices .  Mixed with low fat mayo, low fat pepper jack on top and one of my low fat buns.  Really pretty disappointing but I wasn't going to waste it.  I really wanted a super salad but would have had to go to the store and I needed to shower and do some things before I went so I will make a great one for supper.  I am also on my 2nd half gallon of water already today.  It is getting better drinking all the water I need.  I put either lemon in it or crystal lite peach.

Wednesday, September 14, 2005

Today is my Birthday

  It's my birthday today.  51 years on this earth.  It seems hard to believe I'm that old.  Unless I look in a mirror or my arthritis is acting up I don't feel that old.  I feel pretty good these days actually since I have been exercising so much.  I can feel muscles in my arms and legs that were dorment last year.  I just hope it isn't too little, too late.   We are going on another bike ride today back out to Adams Reserve and I hope Dan, my son, will go along.  He is a big bike rider and this will probably seem pretty tame to him but I think he will like it.  For supper we are going to Sweet Fanny's and I am going to have the Walleye.  It is so yummy and comes with a huge pile of steamed brocoli.  No beer though and I think I am going to give it up.  I bet I would lose faster if I didn't have a couple of beers 2 times a week.  Maybe not though.  I feel like I am about to go down a few pounds.  It seems when I do a different exercise I don't lose for awhile as it is turned into muscle and then all of a sudden, boom 2 or 3 pounds gone.  Today I weighed 98.1 kg which sounds much better that way.  I started out at 110 kg so this is much better sounding.

     I got my new freezer yesterday and I am hoping I get my new monitor today.

 

Tuesday, September 13, 2005

AAARRRGGGHHH, I hate my swimsuit

  I really love my water aerobics class, its my favorite form of exercise, but I hate, hate, hate, my swimsuit and I hate looking for a swimsuit.  They are all hideous if your a large woman with large breasts.  They never make the cups large enough, the bottom cut modestly enough, the front high enough.  I could make a fortune designing well fitting modest swimsuits for mature overweight women to work out in.  All I want is a decent coverup that doesn't float all around me like the dresses do, that I don't jump out of like the low cut ones or out of the bottom like the tankini.  I also want it to be cheap enough I could buy more then one a year and have it last longer then 10 lessons.  90 to 100 for a swimming suit, you have got to be nuts.  If I can't solve this problem with my suits or get into a smaller size soon I will have to give up my class.  I will be so bummed out if my insurance doesn't cover my breast reduction.  That would be half the battle.

   Anyway I didn't go to class.  I got ready and made the huge mistake of looking in the mirror and just couldn't do it.  I will have to go to curves today instead.  I ordered 2 more suits.  I pray they work. Below is a picture that speaks alot.  This is what exercise gives you.  See the difference is 5 pounds of fat compared to the same 5 pounds in muscle?  Work striving for isn't it.

   Later in the day......  We went for a bike ride and did 7 miles.  I was going 16 mph at one point.  I love riding my bike.

Early morning


Blinded this world—
how few see clearly!
Just as birds who've escaped
from a net are
few, few
are the people
who make it to heaven.


-Dhammapada 13, translated by Thanissaro Bhikkhu

Hunger Scale
Try tuning into your hunger so you'll know when to respond - and when to ignore. Our hunger scale, which ranges from 1 (extremely hungry) to 10 (extremely full) can help you clue in to when you should start and stop eating. Your best bet: pick up your fork when you are at a 3 or 4 and set it down at levels 6 or 7. Why? When you're too hungry (at levels 1 or 2), you'll probably eat quickly and overeat, as it takes about 20 minutes for your stomach to communicate with your brain that you've had enough! So try to avoid ever getting to that 1-2 range by planning healthy meals and snacks in advance. If you're still eating when you're above level 7, it's probably due to emotional factors.

1 - Starving, dizzy

2 - Ravenous

3 - Stomach pangs and growling

4 - Slightly hungry

5 - Neutral

6 - Satisfied

7 - Slightly full

8 - Feeling like I ate too much food

9 - Stuffed and uncomfortable

10 - Extreme nausea

Monday, September 12, 2005

Ate too much

  I did pretty good with my plan today, but it still seems like I ate to much and I am miserable.  For breakfast I had an oatmeal breakfast bar.  Not really good but I was in a hurry to go and workout because I had a hair appointment this morning.  Did 45 minutes at curves and came in third in the contest for inches lost.  Cool!  Got my hair trimmed and then just downed a slim fast and some celery with low fat peanut butter. 

   I had a busy expensive day today.  Went and bought a washer, dryer, and freezer today.  Since I paid cash they took off $150.00 from the total which helped alot.  I can't wait to get them as we have been laundry at his mothers.  Now he has to finish the back porch so we can get them delivered. 

  For supper I grilled some chicken in the George Foreman, I melted low fat pepperjack cheese on it and had it on a lowfat bun with low fat mayo.  I made pierogies with sauted onions in lite olive oil and low fat sour cream and had some mixed veggies.  It only comes to about 1180 for the day but I feel really bloated.  I guess I am not use to eating bread.  My husband bought it and since he went to so much trouble finding heart healthy low fat buns I had to eat one, but would have prefered it without the bun.  I do think it was really really sweet that he did that though.  He has been so supportive in this.  He continues to lose weight and inches and is really looking good.  From the looks he is getting from other women, maybe to good, LOL

Sunday, September 11, 2005

911 remembered

Bike Ride

  Today we went to the Adams nature reserve and road the loop.  It is 10 miles and really nice.  You go through woods and around the lake and to the river.  Some small hills but not so many that you have to be in top physical shape to do it.  Half way there is a nice restroom,  and water fountain so you can wet you face down.  I really, really enjoyed it.  We are going to do it again soon and I will bring my camera.  My face was beet red when we got back, partly from sun but mostly from the exercise.  I am proud of myself because I chose to do the whole loop instead of cut in in half like I would have in the past.  It only took us about an hour and 1/2 but we did stop and look out at the lookouts.  We were only average 8 to 9 miles an hour but we were on a pleasure ride, not a speed setting ride.  It takes about 4 hours to walk it.

  Back home we made low fat wraps again.  I stepped on the scale and was one pound heavier then before we left.  I don't know why that would be.  The scale is a complete mystery to me.  If I were to weigh every hour I bet it would be different every hour.  I, of course, take the lowest weight as my true weight ;-)

Saturday, September 10, 2005

Guilt workout

   We went out to eat today and I had pizza.  Pineapple and canadian bacon.  I had some great beer also so my whole great eating day and exercise went down the tubes but I love pizza made that way and will work off the effects.  We went on a bike ride afterwards, in the dark about 5 miles.  It was wonderful sailing along in the dark with the breeze in your face.  Half way all of a sudden there were fireworks!  We hadn't heard about them having any so it was so wonderful riding down by the river and watching them.  A magical evening.  The wind was still gusting away so going back was lots of leg work.

We hope to ride again in the morning as the wind is suppose to die down.  I hope to get Rick going early enough we don't have the heat to deal with.

Windy Bike Ride

  We went on a bike ride today.  The winds outside were really howling and we had 40 mile a hour gusts.  It made riding a real workout.  Since we were in the woods we kept our ears open for breaking branches as there were some pretty large ones down all around us.  My thigh got a charlie horse because we had to pedal even down hill, so I probably got a pretty good workout. 

  Then we came home and made some delicious wraps.  Everything was low fat, the wraps, the thin deli meat, the cream cheese, and regular cheese, red onion, spinach, yummy.  Lots and lots of water.  I briefly weighed in at 215.6 this morning.  Briefly because the next time I checked it was 216.  Never weigh more the once a day, LOL.  

  I am going to do my meditation because I missed it this morning, then some Tai Chi and if my Rick, my husband, is ready go order my freezer.  It will take 2 weeks to get it in so that should give him time to get the area ready in the basement.  A deadline works best for him as he can put things off indefinately.

Friday, September 9, 2005

NSV

   I went to water aerobics today, only 1 hour on Friday, and after class the instructor came up and said, you have really lost some weight haven't you.  I was pretty surprised but a swimming suit really hides very little.  So it is starting to show.  I tried taking some pictures to show how much I have lost but with my old baggy clothes on they don't look much different to me.  I will eventually post some more pictures.  

 For lunch today I had a delicious salad with mushrooms, salmon, pine nuts, and low fat raspberry dressing.  I could live on salads. I had a Oatmeal breakfast bar for breakfast today.  I am craving some fish and need to go to the store for supper stuff so will see what they ahve.

   I ordered my new monitor today from tigerdirect.com.  It had a ton of great reviews and the price is $200 less then  a simular one at best buy.  I can't wait to get it.  This one I am using now is getting ready to bite the dust.  The picture is really dark and getting darker everyday.  I can't see pictures which is bad when I get pictures of my grandchildren.

AG Neovo F-419 / 19-Inch / 700:1 Contrast / 25ms / 1280 x 1024 / DVI / Black LCD Monitor

   Later in the day.  We just finished supper and I got my fish craving taken care of.  We grilled catfish and I made dill sauce, low call of course, rice and mixed veggies.  I am breaking the rules by having some Pinot Grigio white wine.  It sure tastes good with this fish.  I have no idea how much calories is in it.  I never did get to curves to work out today.  Water aerobics will have to do.  If it doesn't rain we are going for a bike ride tomorrow.

Thursday, September 8, 2005

This months Measurements!

   I got measured at curves today.  7 more inches gone.  I have lost a total of -14.32 body fat pounds and a total of 22.25 inches since July 8th.  The blue is starting, the red is now.

Bust   49.25             47.00

Waist 46.00              41.00

Abdomen 53.50      47.50

Hips      52.00          50.50

Thighs   27.00          25.00

Arms:   13.75           12.00

   I started curves after I had started my diet, so my starting weight was 236.  I weighed today, ( this was after eating and with my clothes on so it is different then when I weigh in the morning), 219.  There scales is usually 5 pounds heavier then mine or my doctors so I don't get to upset with it.

   Anyway I am so proud of myself.  I am getting a waist and really need to be getting some new clothes as these are just hanging off of me, but I can't afford to.  I sold my jardiniere but instead of having some extra money, just found out my husband needs a crown and the air went out in my car.  The positive thing, thank goodness I sold the jardiniere so I have the money to get this tooth fixed and the car fixed.  My monitor is going out also so I have to get another one of those.  That pretty much takes all the money.

Wednesday, September 7, 2005

Update

   I did 2 hours of water aerobics yesterday and really put everything into it.  Still having such swimming suit issues Why can't they make a swimming suit that will fit people my size without looking so awful.  I hate it.  My old one fell apart because of the chlorine.

  My weight today is 216.  I love that.

Monday, September 5, 2005

Bemused Early Morning thoughts

   I was lying in bed being happy because the scale said 216 this morning and then remembered how, not to far back, the total dismay I felt when I weighed in at the doctors at 214.  I felt so huge and ashamed of myself for getting that big.  Now, having been at 252 it seems so much smaller to me and I feel so happy to be so "small".  I just thought this was rather amusing. 

    I am off today and plan on getting some form of exercise in.  I has been terribly hot and humid but I would love to go on a bike ride.  I am going to have slim fast for breakfast and I haven't got the rest of the day planned.  Something chicken for supper probably.  I haven't any lettuce so a yummy salad is out unless I get myself moving and to the store.  I plan on going to get my charm for quitting smoking and am thinking about getting my turtle charm for when I hit 30 pounds.  Thats only 4  pounds away.

   I just found out I sold one of my jardinieres for $2200.00.  Yippy.  It is a beautiful very old Roseville tourist Jaridiniere, very rare.  I will be very happy to get the money.

Sunday, September 4, 2005

The Journey


One who stays focused on the beautiful,
is unrestrained with the senses,
knowing no moderation in food,
apathetic, unenergetic:
Mara overcomes him
as the wind, a weak tree.

One who stays focused on the foul,
is restrained with regard to the senses,
knowing moderation in food,
full of conviction & energy:
Mara does not overcome him
as the wind, a mountain of rock.


-Dhammapada, 1, translated by Thanissaro Bhikkhu.

    Boy, this one really speaks to me.  I am down to 216 even today and feeling very sure of myself.  I know I will lose the weight and really don't feel any threats to my goal.  I am still plaqued by arthritis pain but I think I am getting some relief since I added Tai Chi.  I just have problems with the more aggressive exercise and have to admit to myself I am getting older.  I can feel my muscles getting stronger.  My back feels firm instead of doughy.  I love it.  I have more energy at work, which I need since we have been so busy.    I had chicken fajitas tonight. Love them.

 

Saturday, September 3, 2005

Katrina

  It is just so sad how everything is going in New Orleans.  I can't help wonder why more people weren't prepared!  They had days to get ready and leave.  Why hadn't they evacuated?  Why didn't they have water and food stored?  Why wasn't the city more prepared for a disaster like this when they knew one large hurricaine could wipe them out?  Why has it taken so long to help these poor people.  Are they even going to the other small towns to help those people whose towns have been wiped off the map? What are they going to do with the contaminated water in New Orleans when they get the levee repaired.  Will it be pumped back into the gulf with all its contaminates? What land fill will be big enough for all the debris. How will people live with the shame of some of the victims butality and greed.  How can that trash live with themselves knowing their actions delayed help for so many?  Last but not least, is the American Red Cross finally using the millions of dollars they got after 9/11 and said they were saving for the next big disaster?

  The effects of this is going to be so long term.  Displaced people are flooding into Texas who is unprepared for the long term problem of suddenly getting this many people.  What about school for the children, jobs for the homeless, homes for the homeless!  The poor may be in Texas to stay!

  I am still going through closets to get clothes and am going to work some extra so I can send some money.  I just am so saddened and wish there was more I could do.

Whine of the day.  The bad side of human nature.

Friday, September 2, 2005

Down more

  Finally it is going down again.  This morning, 216.2  I got past the block and am going to enjoy this until it blocks again.  Worked my booty off last night and in the 12 hours only sat about 1 hour total.  I am really exhausted.  They are looking for volunteers to go south to aide medically after Katrina.  I wanted to sign up but the hospital says none of us can go while we are in the middle of going up on the computer charting.  I'm sorry but this seems alot more important to me!

  I have been stringing together paper clips for each pound I have lost,  Just a visual reminder.  It is getting pretty long and the bowl with how many more I want to lose is finally showing a dent.  I wonder if it will stretch around the room?

 

Thursday, September 1, 2005

Shock and Awe!

   Well, I wasn't going to weigh myself this week because I ate badly last night but I did anyway after water aerobics and was shocked and extremely happy to see it at 216.8.   I got off and on, in the shower and then weighed again and it was the same.  Wow.  Now to keep it off and get more off.  I am so stoked!

  Went to the Doctor about the reduction and she said I am an excellent candidate and meet all the requirements by the insurance company.  Now to see if I get approval.  They say it usually takes 5 weeks which is OK because I couldn't do it this month anyway what with everything going on at work.  I am planning a wonderful low fat meal tonight and have been going through my closet for clothes to donate to the red cross for Katrina victims.