Weighing In - Week Thirty-Three

Moving on down... the scale. It's happening again. I'm moving in the right direction! This past week was a bit rough, as I developed my first nasty cold of the season but in the end, it all worked out okay.

Last Sunday, I took my three kids for a hike in Briones Park. It wasn't a very long or strenuous hike, about two miles round trip, but it was great for getting the kiddos away from the video games and computers for a few hours. It felt good, getting out of the house, getting some fresh air. Lucky for us, the weather was amazing, and stayed, warm and breezy the whole afternoon. Perfect hiking weather!

Then Monday morning I woke up looking, feeling, sounding like death warmed over. I think I partied a bit too hard during the weekend and the powers that be decided I needed to slow down. Since I wasn't going to do it on my own, mother nature decided to do it for me. And wow, did I slow way down. Unfortunately, the horrible congestion and cough stayed with me most of the week. In fact, I still sound pretty bad but at least I no longer have the body aches and chills that plagued me earlier in the week.

Anyhow, despite my less than perfect health, I stuck to my "get the kids outside and moving" campaign and we went to a local park Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I got some great pics of my two younger ones having a blast. On Saturday afternoon we went for another hike. This one a little longer but with great incentives for my four-year-old. We visited three different playgrounds along the way! It really helps keep her moving if she knows there's something special a little further on down the road. And again, we were blessed with beautiful weather.

Now it's Sunday and time to visit somewhere we haven't been in a while. I think we'll go to the nature preserve out at the Martinez Marina. There is a great trail there that is relatively flat and winds around the coastline through the marshland. It's also a great place to see birds, something my eight-year-old really enjoys. And of course, there are a couple of playgrounds for both Addie and Jasper to hit up on our way to and from the parking area.

Well, I'm off to enjoy this beautiful weather while it lasts. Happy 10/10/10 y'all! See ya next week! Thanks again to all my super supporters. You're the best!

Total Weekly Weight-loss: 1.6 lbs
Total Overall Weight-loss: 39.2 lbs

Weighing In - Week Thirty-Two

It's been a bumpy road, but I've survived... Long time no hear from, I know. The past six weeks have been brutal but somehow I've managed to maintain my weight. Now that things are settling down for me, I think I'm ready to recommit myself to my weight-loss goals and ready to get back on track.

There have been so many changes since I last posted that I hardly know where to begin. I've had to reassess my priorities and took a leave of absence from my schooling. This was a painful and difficult decision. I really wanted to succeed but things didn't work out the way I had planned. Isn't that how it always goes? I haven't given up on my dream of becoming a licensed cosmetologist, I've just had to put the dream on hold. I think many single parents out there can relate. It came down to needing to take care of my family and responsibilities which meant more working and no time for schooling. I've come to terms with my decision and hope to return to school in a few years. We'll see. I have to admit, going back to the work force in a more regular capacity has been good for me. I really enjoy working and I've come to re-appreciate the challenges it provides. Sometimes, I think I just get bored with the monotony of things and need a little change. Cosmetology school definitely was a challenge. It also taught me new ways to approach situations and helped me form new friendships. Something you can never have too many of.

Now, as many people will tell you, when doors close others open, well, the same can be said in reverse. This summer I made new friends and connections but I also had to say goodbye to a very special person. Just recently, my grandfather passed away. It wasn't sudden or unexpected but somehow it still came as a blow that knocked me off balance for a bit. I think that when you watch a loved one slip away, the grieving process begins at the very moment you begin to accept it. You could say I've been grieving for weeks when really he just passed a little over a week ago. It was very difficult trying to adopt the 'let go, and let god' mentality that so many people were prescribing for me. And ultimately, I'm not sure I was able to at all but I will say that the wound is healing and that where for a brief moment I felt an emptiness in my life, I'm very quickly filling it with wonderful memories.

You see, my grandfather was an avid outdoors-man. He hiked, camped, fished, and traveled all over the world. In fact, what all he was able to do and achieve in his life, puts me to shame. He was truly a remarkable man. Unfortunately, my children were too young to really know the side of him that I did and so I feel it is my personal dedication to him that I try and encourage his love of the great outdoors in my kids. What this means is that instead of my workouts being limited to just me and my exercise videos and elliptical machine, I'm going to try and spend as much time as possible getting my kids outside hiking and biking and enjoying nature as their great-grandfather had. I'm breaking out the old bird books he gave me over the years and with bitter sweet memories, I'm going to try and teach my kids some of the wonderful things he taught me over the years.

I am going to still try and get down to my goal weight and I'll still have to utilize those god awful kickboxing routines but I feel now is the time to focus on my family and how I'm going to include them on this journey. I hope you'll stay tuned and follow our adventure as you have been. And it will be an adventure, as I'm not nearly as versed in outdoor activities as my grandfather was. In other words, this could be a laugh. I'll keep you all posted. Today, in fact, I'm taking the kids out to a local regional park despite the 30% chance of rain, to do some hiking. There may be some fun tales to be told when we get home.

And finally, on a happy and uplifting note, as so many of my friends and followers have been asking, yes, my "boo" and I are still going strong. I have to laugh. It seems that many of my weight-loss supporters are also cheerleaders for my personal life. You guys are great! It has been the love and support of my friends, family, and fans that has made this difficult time in my life, that much easier to endure. So with heartfelt appreciation, I thank you all. Well, it's that time of day when the kiddos emerge from their lair and I must go feed my hungry little beasts. I hope everyone has a wonderful Sunday. See you soon and "Happy Trails" to you all.

Total Weekly Weight-loss: 0 lbs
Total Overall Weight-loss: 37.6 lbs ... and counting!

Weighing In - Week Twenty-Six

Oops, my bad! So, you may have noticed that last week I didn't blog. It wasn't that I forgot, just that I wasn't actually in town. I spent the weekend camping at Jenkinson Lake in Sly Park with my family. What an amazing place! It was absolutely beautiful and relaxing. Well, relaxing until I slipped a disk in my spine on Sunday morning, while loading the car to head home. Not good.

After a very painful two hour drive home, I was barely able to get out of the car. What I needed to do was stop right then and there and stretch out on the sofa for the afternoon. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to. Instead, super-mom that I try to be, I unloaded the car, got myself and all three kids bathed and dressed in fresh clothes, and then headed to a family BBQ in honor of an out-of-town guest. Ouch!

Needless to say, come Monday, I was broken. What had started out as a painful pressure in my lower back, was now a full on spasm running down my right leg, leaving the toes on my right foot tingly and numb. Loss of feeling in your gas/brake pedal foot is rather alarming. So, after a trip to the local ER and three different prescriptions, I was officially out of the game and on the disabled list. This wouldn't have been so bad for my weight-loss journey if I hadn't spent the previous weekend eating and drinking beer, then eating and drinking some more. I had gained 5 lbs by the time I had returned home. Instead of being able to work off those pounds, I was told to do pretty much nothing for two or three days in order for my back to heal. Well, sorry doc, no dice.

You see, having three kids pretty much requires some form of movement at all times. Whether it be bathing the 4 year old, picking up after the 8 year old or cooking food for the 11 year old (which is almost constant) you find yourself moving. Anyway you look at it, to be a single mom of three, you have to be mobile. So, instead of rest and relaxation, I found myself popping muscle relaxers and pain killers so that I could do little things like unpack from our camping trip and try to clean the house.

Anyhow, at this point I'm already up 5 pounds and feeling pretty miserable so, to top it all off, Tuesday was my birthday. I haven't had an actual birthday party in at least a decade, if not longer, so my neighbors, friends and I had been planning this luau themed BBQ party for months and here I was, feeling like the tin-man from the Wizard of Oz before Dorothy helps him with that little can of oil. Let me just say, pain killers and muscle relaxers DO NOT mix well with alcohol. Although my back was giving me no trouble after beer number three, by about midnight I was dead to the world. Happy Birthday to me.

In addition to the birthday BBQ, there was the birthday lunch at the Cheesecake Factory followed by the birthday dinner at Flora in Oakland with my parents. Do you see a theme here? Food, food and more food. None of which was "diet friendly" to say the least. Now, I've sworn off beer for a while now. Empty calories and all that (plus, I'm still having to take the occasional prescription pill to get through my day to day chores around the house). And I've been drinking water and V-8 by the gallon, so instead of being 5 to 10 pounds up from my weigh-in two weeks ago, I'm only up one. Not bad, but definitely not good either. Grrrr!

I've been advised by doctors, families and friends to just rest and not push my back but I'm hoping to begin some mini-workouts on Monday. I really am going nuts being so sedentary. My apartment looked like a tornado had blown through since I hadn't been able to successfully keep up on the little stuff. Blessed as I am, I have amazing friends and a super boyfriend who are keeping me in check and helping me clean up, little by little. They have even managed to enlist the help of my not-so-helpful children! Amazing!

Now it's Sunday morning, and I've confessed to most of my dieting sins from the past two weeks. Ahhh, what a cathartic experience. And I'm off to go make some waffles for my kids Sunday brunch and then try to do some of that relaxing everyone has been talking about. I must thank all my supporters who even though I've looked yucky and puffy for the past week, they continue to cheer me on and give me words of encouragement. You guys are the best! I wish everyone a wonderful week and I'll see you next Sunday, hopefully with some weight loss instead of gain.

Total Weekly Weight-Loss: 1 pound gained
Overall Total Weight-Loss: 37.2 pounds

Weighing In - Week Twenty-Four

Doing just fine. So... I haven't been working out as much as I should. I know this. But aside from that, I've been pretty good about my diet.

I have gone back to eating meat but only in limited amounts and not as often as once used to. Of course, as fate would have it, the new "man in my life" grills a mean steak, so I'm really having to watch myself now. He loves to cook and since I'm pretty much burnt out on it, this could lead to a dieting-disaster for me. Somehow, he even got me eating asparagus this week! Of course it was wrapped in prosciutto and pan fried with garlic but asparagus nonetheless! For those who know me, that was right up there on my list of "icky veggies" with Brussels sprouts and cooked spinach! Anyhow, when I'm not being tempted into eating deliciously decadent no-no foods, I'm still eating my "rabbit food" salads as often as possible and of course, I'm loving this fresh fruit and veggie time of year.

I'm still not dropping weight very quickly but I find I'm quite happy with my progress so far. This week I really tried to make sure I was drinking more water since I had slacked off for a bit there. I've been having about 60 to 70 ounces per day which is really good but of course, this means I've become acquainted with most of the public restrooms in a 10 mile radius!

A little hiccup I've had this past week has been stress. I have been stressing out over all sorts of things and it's messing up my sleep cycles and energy levels. I've been told that stress can be a contributing factor for weight gain, so it's really important for me NOT to STRESS. Ha! Easier said than done! It's definitely been an interesting summer with lots of little highs and lows but I recognize that for both my mental and physical health, I need to make a better effort at riding the waves instead of fighting them.

So goals for this week: Continue drinking copious amounts of water. Exercise, exercise, exercise. Oh, and try not to stress over the little stuff.

Thanks to all the fabulously supportive people in my life. You guys are wonderful! I got a little thrill this week having an old friend tell me I looked "damn good." To which I replied, "Thanks, I know!" Ha ha! I guess my sassy old self is coming back. Man, I've really missed me. Well, I'm off to a mini-amusement park with the kids today. The weather is a bit breezy but otherwise beautifully clear. I hope everyone has a wonderful week. See you next time!

Total Weekly Weight-Loss: 1.4 pounds
Total Overall Weight-Loss: 38.2 pounds

Weighing In - Week Twenty-Three

Hmm... I'm not complaining, but note-to-self: more exercise, less beer. Since it's summer, I've been having a lot of beer and barbecue. Too much, probably. And although I didn't gain any weight this past week, neither did I make it to 155 lbs as I had hoped. Of course, it would have helped if I had actually exercised just once.

Early last week I developed a toothache which was uncomfortable but bearable most of the time. Then on Wednesday I did the unthinkable and ate this delightfully decadent cake with Parisian creme filling. It was to die for... and then the toothache took on a life of it's own and I was wishing I really had died! I got no sleep on Wednesday night so by Thursday afternoon, I was miserable. I ended up coming home at lunch and taking everything I could find to kill the pain and then a 3 and a half hour nap. It worked. Since then I've been, for the most part, pain free. Needless to say, I'm trying my damnedest to avoid the sweets, and a repeat of last week. I know, I know, what was I thinking eating cake when I'm supposed to be losing weight! Well, it was a graduation party and I was doing my part of the clean up... cleaning up the cake, that is! Oh well, lesson learned and I'm figuring this is Mother Nature's way of saying, stay on track with the diet, little girl!

Well, it's about 6:20 AM and the sun is up, so it's time for this happy little clam to get ready for the day. I've promised another day of "fun in the sun at the pool" for the kids. I really think that should count as exercise or at least a cardio-workout. I swear I burn a bazillion calories trying to keep an eye on all three of them at once. It seems like my heart pounds a mile a minute as I watch my four year old jump into the pool too close to the wall, the eight year old snorkeling around clueless of the people jumping directly above him and then myself having to dodge water balloons and other projectiles the eleven year old is aiming at me. It really is a three ring circus and I'm just along for the ride.

As usual, thanks to all my super-duper fans and friends. You guys are an amazing support system and I am blessed to have you. I hope everyone has a wonderful week. See you next Sunday and hopefully with some real results.

Total Weekly Weight Loss: 0.4 lbs
Overall Total Weight Loss: 36.8 lbs

Weighing In - Week Twenty-Two

On the road again... The road towards my goal of 125 pounds! I had been aiming for 160 pounds this week, so I'm obviously pretty stoked about pulling a 156.6! I think, in hindsight, it was good for me to plateau around 161 pounds for a while. It seems to have given my body time to catch up and the energy to move on.
Not much has changed in my overall routine, except that I did make a point to exercise three times last week. Now that I'm no longer battling infections, I find that I have more energy than before. And of course, it didn't hurt that I took a well deserved weekend off, to unwind by the lake. If I could just make weekends like that happen every few months rather than once a year, I think my overall health would be greatly improved. It's hard not to run yourself into the ground trying to be everything for everyone, everywhere. I highly recommend regular mini-vacations to other people with weight loss struggles.
And finally, it seems that after years of being completely off the dating radar, I'm back in the game. I've been ridiculously happy this past week. There is something refreshing and motivating about a new possible relationship. You find yourself smiling a lot more and actually wanting to exercise rather than making yourself. Whether or not, this new situation will pan out to be the real deal, I can't possibly say at this point, but it seems to be great for my diet!
Well, it's an incredibly beautiful Sunday morning. There isn't a single cloud in the sky. I've got to go make the kids breakfast and then we're going to spend some time at the pool. I'll be swimming laps; they'll just be making a ruckus. Let's shoot for 155 pounds next Sunday. Oh, and by the way, for those who've been following my mini-goals. I had hoped to be a size 10 pant by my birthday in mid-August. Well, that goal was actually reached back in week twenty! So now, my goal is to fit into a size 8 by the big event. Let's see how close I can actually get! There are still almost three weeks until then, so with a bit of luck and a heck of a lot of exercise... I should be able to pull it off.
Thank you to all my awesome friends, family and fans. You guys are really great on a gal's self-esteem. Keep the compliments coming... my favorite from last week had to be, 'You look like your ten years younger!' That would put me at about 22 years old... which was just a year after my first child was born. Not bad. I'm shooting for looking like I did BEFORE my first child was born. Now, that would truly be makeover!
Until next time, have a wonderful week!

Total Weekly Weight Loss: 4.8 pounds
Overall Total Weight Loss: 36.4 pounds

Weighing In - Week Twenty One

And you thought I forgot... Well, I didn't. This is going to a short a and sweet blog.

I just spent the weekend up in the foothills, relaxing by Twain Harte Lake and wasn't home to do my usual Sunday morning blog. As I sip my coffee, I thought I'd quickly post the latest (and not exactly greatest) weigh in. Obviously, not much has changed since I last posted. I'm still hovering about 160 lbs.

With the weather being so warm, I foresee much water drinking in my future but not much actual vigorous exercise. It's going to take extreme dedication on my part, to get me off this plateau. Here's hoping that this week I'm able to find my inner cheerleader. Goal: Drop below 160 lbs by next Sunday. Stay tuned to see if I'm able to pull it off. I hope everyone has a fantastic week. See you next time.

Total Weekly Weight Loss: 1 pound
Overall Total Weight Loss: 31.6 pounds

Weighing In - Week Twenty

Losing ground... OK, not really but it kind of feels like it. This was probably a week I should have taken off dieting since I was absolutely horrible about food choices. In other words, I managed to eat ALL my no-no foods and didn't do ANY exercising.

It started out like every other week. Sunday I spent time at the pool with the kiddos (recuperating from a hectic week before). Monday was much the same except that in honor of my son's birthday we had an enormous steak and potatoes feast. Yum, steak... no-no, potatoes... no-no. And of course, since it was a birthday, there was cake and ice cream involved too. Yum, cake... no-no. Tuesday, much the same. Wednesday it was back to school and unfortunately, I didn't have too many human clients to keep me busy. I spent most of the day working on my mannequin head doing updo's and trying to keep busy. When I'm not busy, I'm a snacker, and snack I did, all day.

Now I should probably mention that about four or five weeks ago I developed a weird bump under my right arm. At the time, I thought nothing of it. I figured it was from razor burn. An ingrown hair that got infected. Nothing, right? It got nasty, inflamed, did it's thing and then went away. A few weeks later, I got another one. Same arm, different spot. This time I chalked it up to a dull razor and all the time I'd been spending in the pool. Again, it did it's thing and then much slower this time, went away. Well last week, I got a third infection. This time on my left arm, lower down on the bicep where I don't shave. Hmm... I was having a harder time rationalizing this one. I figured it was from all the rubbing my arm was getting from my school shirt and me sweating while working on clients. It's been hot on the salon floor lately. It's been hot outside too. See, just sweat and rubbing. Excuses, excuses.

If you can't tell, I'm not one to rush off to the doctor. I tend to brush thingd of when it comes to MY body. My children however, different story, I would have had them in the ER at the first signs of something like this but myself... well, I am of the 'suck it up, you'll live' mindset. Well, I'm having dinner with my kids' grandmother Thursday night, and she mentions how exhausted I look, and I mention the growing red infection on my arm. One look and she freaks. Not because it was gory or anything but 1. she tends to overreact to everything and 2. she's just had a co-worker develop a staph infection that had them in the hospital on their back for three days. Now she's got me freaking. She's throwing out things like, 'blood poisoning' and 'you could die.' Needless to say, Friday morning, bright and early, I visited the local ER to have my arm looked at. And the doctor tells me, 'Yes, it looks like a staph infection but no, it won't kill you.' Huh. In all my 30 some-odd-years, I've never had a staph infection so I really know nothing about them. She tells me they're pretty common but still I'm stressed thinking about how long I've been living with this and if the kids possibly have this too, just waiting to rear it's ugly head. Stress... Stress.... Stress....

Anyhow, the doctor did her thing, which I won't go into details about but I can tell you it's painful and gross. I was sent on my way with some super antibiotics and I'm currently waiting for the cultures she took to be tested and for the results to determine which kind of staph and whether or not I need even MORE super antibiotics. I'm having to be my own nurse now, changing the dressing twice a day. YUCK and OUCH! This totally sucks. Not only am I in pain but I'm constantly exhausted. I haven't had the energy to clean my house, do my laundry, or even tie my shoes. Thank god for slip ons and flip-flops.

So, although it's not diet related, there is a lesson to be learned here. If you're a parent, and even if you're not, don't let these things wait and fester. Get checked out at the first sign of something not being normal. I wish I had and maybe I could have avoided the pain and exhaustion I've been suffering for the last month. Looking back, I realize this started about the time I phased out to the salon and began working on clients. I was chalking up the exhaustion to all the hours on my feet but I'm thinking now, it was probably the infection raging through my system. As they say, you live, you learn. I did, the hard way.

Now, all this Stress... Stress... Stress... took it's toll on my body this week. In addition to my monthly food binging that most women are familiar with, I've been going gang busters with the naughty foods. We're talking cold cut sandwiches with (gasp) bread, chips, cookies, french fries (double gasp). Ugh! I'm cringing while I type this. A blue-cheese burger, cake, ice cream and candy... I'm telling you, I went BIG this week in terms of blowing off this diet. It's been bad.

But, I should mention that despite major water retention, bloating and horrible eating habits, I did just purchase some size 10 jeans that fit surprisingly well. Who would have guessed? So I can't complain there but really, I know this can't continue, and after today's birthday party, I'm going to have to get really strict about my diet again. Of course, I really can't help the exercising until this infection is totally cleared up. The more I move my arm the angrier it gets. And it get's wicked angry by the end of the day just by me doing normal day to day stuff without the extra exertion of rigorous exercise.

So what I've learned this week: 1. Don't put your health on the back burner... sometimes these things don't go away on their own. 2. If you have to, go ahead and 'stress eat' but try to keep it small. And finally,3. if I should ever mention interest in becoming a medical professional, smack me. I am SO not cut out for this kind of stuff.

Thanks to all my supporters... I promise to get back on track soon. I hope everyone has a wonderfully healthy week. Catch ya'll next week. Oh, and P.S. For those following, I found my cell phone (it had been lost in the chaos called the kids toy room and my car has been fixed and she's running like a dream. A few less Stresses on the list of life! Yah!

Total weekly weight loss: 2.4 pounds gained
Total overall weight loss: 30.6 pounds

Weighin In - Week Nineteen

Holding on... Holding on strong! Although there isn't a remarkable difference from last week, the half pound loss is one I'll gladly take. I'm not complaining. I have a feeling that these next thirty pounds are going to be more difficult to lose than the last thirty. But that's normal, isn't it? I've come to the conclusion that if I'm going to keep on schedule with my plan to reach 125 lbs by Halloween, I'm going to have to step up my game. Seriously step it up.

I only worked out twice this week. Obviously not enough to result in awesome weight loss. Of course, I had an incredibly busy week at school which always leaves me brain dead by 7:00pm. And then there was the spontaneous ER run on Wednesday night. Nothing like spending a few hours in the stress-inducing sterile environment of a hospital. Nothing like thinking your four-year-old daughter might need a nose job by age five. Luckily, at this point it appears to be only a minor fracture or a severe bruise. We're waiting for the swelling to go down. It's now Sunday and she still sounds like she's totally plugged up. We're hoping by Wednesday we'll better know the damage.

And then on Friday, I had a non-stop day in the school salon. Unlike most days, I didn't have any manicures or pedicures to allow me to sit for an hour or two during the day. I started the day working a roller set on my mannequin head which was interrupted half way through to assist in a full head of highlights on a client. It was hilarious really. Due to the fact that the client had heavily processed hair to begin with, we were required to get the foils in her hair quickly. There were three of us, working at lightning speed. Needless to say, we were sweating to get at least fifty highlight foils on her head and it was a bit cramped with the three of us crowded around the one salon chair. But in the end, we did it, and it looked great! As soon as I was through with that, I was given a shampoo, haircut and blow-dry which kept me on my feet right up to my lunch at 2:30pm. After quickly wolfing down a salad and some pita chips with hummus, I moved to my last client of the day. A childhood friend and her mother came in for services. Trina is one of those people who is blessed with a full head of fabulously curly hair. After a shampoo, blow-dry, and then two-person flat iron session, her hair literally reached down beyond her waist. At that point, I trimmed her ends and finished off the style with some smoothing product and she and her mom (who'd had a pedicure while she waited) were off. It was after 5:30pm at that point and I was exhausted. Clean up of my station and sanitizing my tools took me right up to 6:20pm and it was time to go home. Although I was pleased with the day's works, I was dead on my feet and it turns out, my abdominal muscles were none to pleased with me. All day Saturday I felt like my innards were going to fall out so I spent much of the afternoon bobbing around in the pool letting the water counteract gravity and giving my ab muscles a break.

And now it's Sunday, July 4th. Happy 4th! I have plans for another trip to the pool today as I'm still feeling the strain left over from Friday. I figure some laps in the pool will be better than no exercise at all. Then my kiddos are off to spend the afternoon and ultimately spend the night at the father's house. If I'm feeling up to it, I'll try to get a workout in when my house is tidy and empty (something that doesn't happen often or last very long). But, if my abs are up to it, I won't push it and I won't feel bad.

Now, I must sign off and get the kids ready for the pool. I thank everyone for the wonderful posts on my Facebook! You guys really keep me going! Take care! Have a happy, healthy and safe 4th of July! See you next week!

Total Weekly Weight-loss: 0.6 pounds
Total Overall Weight-loss: 33 pounds

Weighing In - Week Eighteen

Wow! What a crazy chaotic week full of highs and lows! But I survived and managed to lose nearly another two pounds in the process! As some people may know, from following my personal Facebook page, I had a heck of a time dealing with AT&T this week. After multiple mishaps and mis-communications (on their end) I am finally back online in my own apartment! Yah! No more trying to get a wifi signal on my back patio! Which, by the way, is NOT easy. That in itself was a workout! You should have seen it, me constantly moving the laptop this way and that to keep the signal. It would have been funny if I hadn't been paying AT&T for a secure in-home signal the whole time! But I'm happy to say that as of 10:30pm on Friday, it has all been fixed!

It turns out there is truth to the saying, 'There is a silver lining to every rain cloud." Since I was stuck at home for most of the week (waiting for the elusive repairman) I did finally get to some LONG overdo house cleaning. Again, another unplanned workout. When it's 80 degrees outside, these tiny little apartments tend to heat up regardless of how many fans you've got going. I was seriously dripping buckets of sweat while scrubbing my kitchen floor on my hands and knees! I can't complain, those two pounds pay off nicely despite the aggravation it took to get me there.

This week also marked the end of a a very long and stressful chapter in my life. Thursday afternoon, one door closed and another opened. A process, I had been working on for over three years. And while it is always sad when one must cut their losses and move on, it was way past time. I am now happily divorced. Don't get me wrong, it was not like my ex and I hated one another or were one of those couples you see on Jerry Springer or Divorce Court. In fact, we were the only two people in the courthouse laughing and joking through the whole process Thursday afternoon. But we've both come the realization that we make better friends than spouses and it's such a relief to know that we can now move on with our lives. It's been funny, people don't know whether to congratulate or console us. Let it be known that we couldn't be happier with this outcome regardless of the fact that in the eyes of many others it appears that we failed miserably in our marriage. All I can say is, come on, it wasn't a total wash, we have three of the most beautiful amazing children as proof. But enough of that... in short, a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders and I feel like a new woman.

Now, with this emotional roller coaster of a week, I was bound to have a few diet hiccups. Which I did. But for the most part, I wasn't so bad. After another no show by the repairman on Wednesday, I did want to dive into the carton of Rocky Road ice cream and not come up for air till I hit bottom, but I didn't. Instead I vented, ate three cups of 10 calorie Jel-lo and then went to bed. On Thursday, in celebratory fashion I allowed myself, not one, not two but three glasses of wine and even ate some of the Rice-A-Roni I'd made for the kids. I did stick to a veggie burger instead of the lamb chops I'd grilled for the kiddos. And on Friday, after the repairman finally came and then left and we were over-joyed to be back online, so I treated the kids to Happy Meals from McDonald's. I, myself, ordered a medium fry but wasn't able to finish it. About halfway through I got the "B.G.'s" (bubble guts) and decided not to push my luck. I don't think my body liked all that grease and salt. But I'll admit it, boy did they taste good. Other than that, I've really been trying to stay true to my healthier eating. I have been drinking lots of water since it's warmed up considerably around here. And I've tried to stay active as much as possible considering I wasn't at school most the week so I wasn't rushing around the salon floor burning calories like a mad woman.

All in all... it's been another good week. So, thanks again to all my supporters and thanks for all the wonderful compliments! I'm still hoping to hit a size 10 by mid August and I think I just might since my 12's are getting quite baggy. I'll keep you all posted. Until next time, I wish everyone a wonderful week!


Total Weekly Weight-loss: 1.8 pounds

Total Overall Weight-loss: 32.4 pounds

Adventures in Waiting

Adventures in Waiting - A Non-Weight-loss Blog
It is day two in my quest to locate the elusive mythical creature called 'AT&T Repair Tech.' I'm honestly doubting all previous tales of this being's existence. I think I'm more likely to spot Nessie swimming in my bathtub but never the less I push on. Hope springs eternal and all that.

I'm currently lying in wait, hunkered down quietly in my humble abode trying to find ways to pass the time. It is amazing the revelations one can make when they are stuck at home without their three children running amok to keep them busy. Did you know it is humanly possible to splatter coffee six feet up a kitchen wall? Well, it is. I found proof just earlier today when I went to take out the garbage. I'm not sure when that happened but said proof has since been removed from white wall. What truly boggles the mind is how I'm the only one who drinks coffee in this house and I'm only five feet tall... Hmm. And also, have I mentioned that a home without children present stays neat and tidy for more than twenty minutes! And even better, I haven't had to remind a single soul to put the seat down or stop wrestling in the living room. All in all, my apartment is eerily quiet. If only I could here the pitter-patter of repairman feet on my front step... Well now, what I really meant to write about is this:

I love forced productivity. I'm not talking about the kind where someone is standing over you nagging you to clean your room or else... No, I'm referring to the kind that only happens when you can find absolutely nothing else to do but BE productive. For example, the Wednesday morning dishes that usually reside in the kitchen sink until I return home from school that evening are currently loaded into the dishwasher. And said dishwasher has already been run. Unbelievable, I know. I'm slightly startled by this every time I enter my kitchen.

Oh! And another gem of productivity I tackled thus far: mopping. As many of you may already know, I detest mopping my kitchen floor. I find it disgusting, pushing a dirty mop full of once clean but now thoroughly dirty water across the floor where it will undoubtedly pool beneath the baseboards. Yuck, yuck and yuck! Well, it turns out, when you have nothing but time on your hands and all the slightly more pleasant tasks that need doing require leaving your home (which is an absolute no-no since that is exactly the time the repairman will decide to show up) your kitchen floor gets scrubbed... by hand. Yes, she said by hand. And did you know that Cascade dishwasher detergent makes a wonderful floor cleaning agent? I didn't but as it turns out, my delightful children used all the Spic and Span (for lord knows what) and since I cannot leave my home for reasons previously mentioned, I was forced to be creative. My kitchen floor is quite literally clean enough to eat off of! Well, at least, in theory. But please, don't tell my children that, since I'm sure one or two would be inclined to test such a theory out but back to the story at hand...

Once the laundry was folded and put away, the apartment vacuumed, the kitchen mopped, dishes done and still no sign of the repairman, I was in need of other time consuming tasks. As they say, when the cat's away the mice will play... well, in this case it was vice-verse. This cat decided to play with the mouse's new keyboard. Did you know that playing piano is much like riding a bike? It's all about good form and once you know how, you never forget. (Thanks Dad, those lessons way back when are still paying off!) After an hour of awkward practice and a few dozen horribly wrong notes (sorry neighbors) I'm able to play Fur Elise like a pro! OK, more like a fifth grade, third year piano student but hey, it's still music. Sort of. And not only have Beethoven and I bonded but I whipped out a mean Mozart Rondo, a melodious Moonlight Sonata, and just for kicks and giggles, I unearthed the sheet music for the Beverly Hills Cop theme song! My son will be so thrilled! Now I say 'unearthed' because literally my front bedroom remains a hard-hat required disaster zone. I will take desperation beyond what I've encountered today, to motivate myself to tackle unpacking all those boxes and sorting through all those toys. Of course, the day is young... and as of yet (3pm) still no repairman so who knows, the desperation my come yet.

Now a few of you may be wondering, "Why isn't she exercising? This is a perfect opportunity to burn some calories!" To this I say, Ah... no. My luck would be that at the exact moment I'm midway through my workout, and I've worked myself up to a startling shade of red that implies need of emergency medical assistance, would be the exact moment my wayward repairman would arrive. So, no thank you. I'll have to wait for another perfect opportunity that doesn't mix copious amounts of sweat with strange people in my home.

Well now, I've killed about half an hour rambling here. And no, the tech has still not arrived, so I'm off in search of more ways to entertain myself. I wonder if Addie will mind if I organize her My Little Ponies magnets.... Hmmm. Well, tah-tah for now. Stay tuned for more Adventures in Waiting! Maybe I'll have photographic proof to sell to the tabloids if this so-called 'AT&T Tech Repairman' ever decides to show up!

Weighing In - Week Seventeen

Seventeen has always been my lucky number...
It's official! I've passed the 30 pound milestone! It was just on February 21st of this year (seventeen weeks ago) that I started this blog and was weighing in at 193 pounds. Although I've still got about 38 more pounds overall to go, I'm just 3.5 lbs away from the half way point of my total goal and already I feel like a new person! Almost daily, somebody will comment on how much weight I've lost and each time it happens, I swear I stand just that much straighter and smile that much brighter. It's a wonderful feeling.

Now, I won't lie. I haven't been working out as much as I should. I'm not sure if it's just the stress of this particular time of year, the overwhelming exhaustion of working in the salon 30 hours a week or plain old me being lazy but at the end of the day (even the beginning of it, if we're honest) I'm just too tired and unable to motivate myself to workout. From about Mother's Day through the end of July, every year without fail, my life is overloaded with various events. I feel like I'm always rushing from one thing to the next without a moment of downtime. Life slows down considerably once summer is over and the kids are back in school so I'm expecting to get back into my regular workout schedule once that happens. Of course, the working 10 hour days in the salon won't change so I may continue to run into the problem of coming home each night barely able to stand let alone be coordinated enough to kick-box without causing myself serious injury. Fingers-crossed that as time goes by I'll get accustomed to the grueling go-go-go of working three to four clients a day. Time will tell.

And since I'm confessing, I should also mention that these past few weeks of birthday parties, holidays, and various end-of-school-year-events have been wreaking havoc on my healthy eating choices. As some of you may know, I had a day this week when I succumbed to the awesome deliciousness (and totally unhealthy goodness) of Panda Express. Not only did I consume enough sodium to mummify myself from the inside I out, but I ate chow mien, white rice, and orange chicken. All of which are on my naughty list of foods. But most surprising, for the person who had given up meat on Mother's Day, eating chicken was a huge no-no. And while I felt rather ill and insanely guilty that night (my stomach wasn't used to such heavy foods), I've since forgiven myself. I think my body needed a good binge but I'm back on track again. All things considered, I'm doing pretty good about not overdoing the naughty foods. At one point this week, I had three different cakes in my fridge (two birthday, one graduation) and I'm happy to say, two of the three are still there. That's not to say that I haven't eaten any of the cake myself... I have. It sounds gross but after a long day of scrubbing peoples feet and cutting hair, I really enjoy a small slice of cake and a big glass of V8. Hey, I'm balancing out the good and the bad with that snack! Oh well, I look forward to the end of birthday season in my family so these temptations won't be calling my name every time I open my fridge.

Overall, it's been a good week for my weight loss journey. I can't complain with results like this. And although I would like to proclaim that I'll be working out daily, I won't make any promises. I'm taking each day as it comes... baby steps. Now it's off to clean some house and then take the kids up to the Merry-go-Round and Steam Trains. Happy Father's Day to all you Dads and Moms-Who-Also-Play-Dad. Have a wonderful day! Have a wonderful week! See you next time!

Weekly Weight Loss: 2.8 pounds
Overall Weight Loss: 30.6 pounds

Weighin In - Week Sixteen

I can't control all that happens to me, I can only control what I put into myself as a result of such happenings.
This past week has been a lesson in control. Control of temper. Control of emotion. Control of self doubt. Control of schedule. And ultimately, control of my diet. I found myself tested and tested and just for good measure, tested again... and it appears, I still remain in control, if of nothing else, then the most difficult self discipline I've been developing lately- my eating.

This was my first full week out on the school's salon floor. For those not in cosmetology school, this translates to my first week of working entirely on the public and not on a mannequin head. Believe me, real people are way different than doll heads. There is an indescribable nervousness that goes with taking peoples hand, feet and heads literally into your own hands and altering them. Whether it be as simple as nail polish change or as complex as a hair color retouch with highlights and then a cut, you've been given an enormous responsibility that is both an honor and a test of self confidence. The best example of the level of stress that goes along with this vocation is that after my first full day on the floor, I came home with four new pimples. Just like that, BAM, four little stress friends on my forehead. For the most part, I was pleased with the results I had created on my clients but I definitely need more practice if I'm going to successfully control the little panic attack that accompanies each new client.

In addition to feeling a wee bit overwhelmed at school (Ha! Understatement), I was having some gigantic problems with the kids' daycare situation. The short and not-so-sweet of it all was that I was suddenly NOT going to have any daycare which meant that I was going to have to take a leave from school. Needless to say, after investing close to 450 hours in my schooling, and just getting to the good stuff (the actual clients) I was not remotely happy with the thought of falling behind and extending my schooling well into next summer. In this, the control of my temper was tried and although I was able to get the results I desired, no, scratch that, the results that were absolutely necessary for my continued happiness and schooling, I am not all that happy with the way I had to go about getting them. I truly hate having to pull the raging 'b*tch' card and strong arming people but sometimes it's the only way to get other people to truly follow through. Unfortunately, I spent most of the week a total emotional wreck, trying to arrange then rearrange the finely tuned schedule of my life in the thought that I would have to accommodate three kids without daycare for the summer. There wasn't any way to fix it, something (my schooling) was going to have to go. I literally was on my way to the school director's office to apply for a leave of absence when the call came in stating that the child care situation was going to be rectified. You can't imagine how much of a relief that was.

And finally, this week was my oldest child's birthday. There was up early baking, and up late gift shopping, throwing my sleep pattern all out of whack. A sleep deprived Mommy makes for a slightly unstable individual all on it's own. Not only was I grumpy and off kilter for most the week, but then there was the stress of planning a party, finding 'cool' gifts for the kid who has almost everything and then funding the whole thing when funds are particularly tight this year. As many know, when there are three kids, there is NEVER enough of the green stuff. It get's a bit trickier when you've taken the year to go back to school and you're only working part-time. It makes occasions like birthdays, that much more stressful. All I can say is that I found the perfect birthday gift and I'm glad that stress is over. Of course, I have one more birthday party to plan... in about, Oh, three weeks. So I'm sure I'll be a nut case again real soon. Oh well, that's the breaks when you've got kids.

So, the point of this blog today is this- There are times when life is going to become almost unbearable... and if you only gain 0.2 pounds that week, then I think you're doing pretty darn good. I should know - I've just been there, done that. Here's hoping that next week runs smoother, that I get a chance to do some sweating on the elliptical, and of course that I am able to continue my self control when it comes to emotional eating and food in general. Thank you to everyone who cheered me up and made me laugh when I wanted to cry, this week. You guys are awesome! Thanks to everyone who has been following and encouraging me on this bumpy weight-loss ride, thus far. I look forward to continuing this journey with all of you! Until next time, have a wonderful and hopefully stress-free week!


Total Weekly Weight loss: 0.2 pounds gained
Total Overall Weight loss: 27.8 pounds

A Totally Non-Weightloss Blog: Letter to My Son on His 11th Birthday

I normally don't blog on Tuesdays. Actually, I only blog on Sundays but today is special. Today is my son's 11th birthday. So, in honor of him, I'm writing a completely non-weightloss-related blog. You may not be interested in reading this and I'm OK with that. I promise to write again, on Sunday, all about my journey down the road to a thinner and healthier me but in the meantime, here are some of my other equally as important thoughts.

"Dear Skyler..."

Notice I'm writing this as a letter. If you're a parent, you know that sometimes it's difficult to express your true feelings and thoughts to your child. It may be because they are too young to fully understand them or maybe it's due to the fact that there are a million other things on your mind at the very same moment, like the chocolate pudding stains on their shirt or gobs of unknown substances stuck in their hair. Sometimes it's just because when you do begin speaking from the heart they stare at you like you've grown two heads and then tune you out. The latter happens more often as they get older. About the time they learn to roll their eyes and sigh heavily. About the time they turn 11.

My answer to this dilemma- alternate forms of communication. I've learned over the years, when I want to organize my thoughts before serving them to others to be consumed, it's best prepared on paper. Or in this case, on the computer screen. It is here that I am able to pour out a jumbled mess of bits and pieces, rearrange them like magnets on a refrigerator door, eloquently change the hue and tone of my masterpiece and then present it like a gift to it's intended recipient. See below...

"Dear Skyler,

First off, let me say, thanks for having a birthday! I love an excuse to eat Snickerdoodles for breakfast and blow off my diet for the day. Oops, I forgot, no weight-loss talk. Sorry, I couldn't help myself. But seriously, I love sharing these carefree and out of the 'norm' moments with you. I hope when you're older and have kids of your own, you'll fondly remember these special traditions with your wacky and zany mom, and of course, carry them on.

Now for the nitty-gritty...

Eleven. Wow! You're eleven! You're probably thinking, 'What's the big deal with eleven?' I know, I know- Ten was a big deal because it meant double digits, and thirteen will be a big deal when you're officially a teenager but eleven... Well, eleven is special in so many ways! I could go into all the esoteric numerology mumbo-jumbo about the number eleven, but I won't. Just know that the significance of the number eleven is huge as a Master Number and of course, you'll only be eleven, once.

God, eleven years... It's crazy how I can remember almost every single moment of the day you were born. The smell of the hospital, the stupid soap operas on the TV which couldn't compare to the excitement I was feeling about becoming a new mom. The fire engine sounds your father made as we were wheeled in the O.R. and of course the first time I heard you cry.

As I fast forward through the years, I smile... as I remember your first ride on a merry-go-round in Tilden. The year you invited your entire kindergarten class to your birthday party in the park. The year you spent Easter Sunday morning in the John Muir pediatric ward. I remember when you first learned how to read and how excited you were when you came home from your very first guitar lesson. I can honestly say that every single day with you has been a wonder. You truly amaze me on so many levels. If I don't say it enough, let me remind you... I absolutely, positively, without a doubt love everything about you.

I love that you can tell me exactly how many miles Venus is from the planet Earth. I love that you know the longest word in the English language is a chemical compound I couldn't even begin to pronounce. I love that you have beaten nearly every video game you've every played. I love that you love reading Discover magazine and that you want to stay up late to watch Isaac Asimov specials on TV. I love that I can brag, "My fifth grader is smarter than your college grad" and mean it. I love that you always have time to help your little brother with his homework and your baby sister with putting her shoes on the correct feet. I love that you know who the Beatles are and almost every word to every one of their songs. I love that you're one of the few people in the family that can hold an intelligent conversation with your "Mensa Member" grandfather and that you created, what we in the family now call, the "Skyler Burger".... Bun, meat, lettuce, tomato, three pickles, ketchup and a bun. In that order, thank you very much! Oh, Skyler, you are truly an awesome kid!

And although we don't always see eye-to-eye, don't you worry, in another 6 months I'm sure we will... literally if not metaphorically. By the way, even when you're a foot taller than me, you'll still have to go to bed when I say.

I know that you've had some rough patches over the years, and that's OK, but I want you to know that every little bump in the road has been worth it and they have made the trip, thus far, that much more special (is that even proper English? I'm sure you'll correct me if I'm wrong.) Yes, I know, I'm using that word again. Special. All through your life, people will try to use that term as a negative label. Please remember that you are special but special in all the right ways. There is nothing wrong with being different. What it comes down to is this: You are good. You are kind. You are brilliant, scratch that, you're darn near a genius, so of course you're special. Just tell them, 'Thank you for the compliment!' and keep in mind that the people who don't understand, don't matter, and the people who do, are the ones that truly love you.

So, ultimately what I wanted to say was, I wish you a Happy Happy Birthday! As you finish up the fifth grade next week and get ready to hit Junior High this fall, remember, I'm your biggest fan! Continue to wow the rest of the world with your uniqueness and creativity! Stay true to yourself and always know that you're loved.

Love Always,

Mom."

Weighing In - Week Fifteen

"I think I can. I think I can. I think I can." I feel like The Little Blue Engine That Could, chugging along, slowly but surely. It's truly amazing how the pounds are just melting off and I'm really not even thinking about it!

On that note- no, I haven't worked out this week. In fact, my poor elliptical has been gathering dust since I've become so busy getting ready for another birthday party, a fifth grade graduation and the end of the school year in general for the other kids. I'm hoping to reconnect with my friend, the elliptical, in the next few days but I make no promises.

This week I moved from the classroom (phase 1) to the salon floor (phase 2) at school. Instead of sitting at a desk, learning cosmetology theory, for most of my day, I'm on my feet for nearly nine hours straight. Thank goodness I've lost a significant amount of weight or my feet and back would be killing me right now! I foresee continued weight loss due to the amount of moving around (hair cutting and coloring is really a full body activity!) I'll be doing for the next seven months.

And of course, the heat has finally come to town and so I've been drinking water like there's no tomorrow. Water... it's such a life saver to the dieter! And Oh! How I love summertime. It's shorts and tank top season which in itself is motivation to hit the gym! Definitely my goal for this week - work on the arms. I could use some more definition and a little less padding in the upper arm areas.

I should mention, I hit a couple of major milestones this week besides graduating out of the classroom! When I started this blog back in February, I was wearing a size 16 pant. What got me truly motivated back then (beside my doctor's scoldings) was that those pants were getting uncomfortably too tight. On Friday, I did something I rarely do. I bought myself new clothes. Ask anyone, I hate shopping. I especially hate shopping for myself. In fact, I was only going to go to the store to buy a belt since my regular school pants were in the wash and I had to resort to wearing my size 16 slacks to school, which were on the verge of falling off all morning. I was literally able to pull them off and on without unbuttoning or unzipping them. Upon arriving at the store, I had a moment of genius. I decided that since I NEVER want to wear a size 16 again I would buy a new pair of pants instead of a belt. I'm thrilled to say that I am a very comfortable size 12! Believe me, I did a little happy dance when those suckers slid on without hopping around or sucking in to zip them up! But not only am I two sizes smaller in pants, I did something last Monday that I haven't done in over four years. I bought a swim suit! This is a MAJOR accomplishment for me. It's like I'm a whole new woman! I'm no longer buying XXL or shopping in the plus size sections anymore! I'm able to wear the L size in the regular departments! I have made a goal that I would like to be down to a size 10 by my birthday in August. I'm not sure I'll be able to make it but I believe that it is achievable and that is half the battle. Fingers crossed!

As for my diet, believe it or not, I stopped counting calories awhile ago. I really couldn't tell you what my intake is at this point. All I know is that nearly all the foods I eat are healthy and good for me in one way or another. I no longer have a problem passing up the bagels and doughnuts that are so often brought into school and if I do splurge it's in real moderation. I'm telling you, it's been a serious lifestyle change and one that I don't even really notice that much anymore!

I just started using these "fake meat" alternatives to cook some "regular" or non-diet meals. They're all soy protein products that naturally have less fat and low calorie counts. So far, my favorites are the "Meatless Grounds" (like ground beef) and "Morning Star Farms Soy Protein Grillers" (like hamburgers.) The Safeway by my home doesn't offer much of a selection of meat alternatives, so I'm going to go investigating today (while the kids are at a birthday party) and see how the other local grocery stores compare in price and selection.

I must mention that trying to eat "real foods" again such as tacos and burgers (the vegetarian way) has been a shock on my system. I've been eating light foods, such as soups and salads, for so long that a whole veggie burger is too much for me and I get that uncomfortably full feeling half way through. This being the case, I don't think I'll be eating these heavier meals very often. Maybe once a week.

Well, another week, another couple pounds lost. It's off to get some cleaning done around the house so I can spend some time at the pool this afternoon. Thanks to all my wonderful friends, family and fans who have been supportive since day one. You're the best. Here's to wishing all of you a happy and wonderfully sunny week!

Weekly weight loss: 2 pounds
Total weight loss: 28 pounds

Weighing In - Week Fourteen

I'm back on track.
This week's goal was to get in some good workout time after about ten days off. I did just that. I started doing 40 minute kickboxing workouts in the evenings and I think it's working!
I continue to make 'wise' food choices each day which is surprisingly something I don't even have to think much about. I've trained myself to seek out the healthiest foods available, so it's almost second nature. When everyone else is eating Chinese take-out or food from the local drive-thru, I'm eating my salads and drinking my water. I've found that the smell of greasy McDonald's is no longer even appealing to me! Which, honestly, this is a huge accomplishment!
On Friday, I gave myself a 'free' day. We had a potluck party in class and instead of avoiding the wonderful goodies everyone had brought in, I balanced my naughty foods with the good-for-me items. My biggest indulgence at the potluck were two servings of homemade Spanish rice. Rice has been big no-no food, so I decided to give it a go. It was crazy good (Thanks Monica)! About 20 minutes after eating the rice and some nachos... and chips and bean dip.... and pasta salad... and chocolate covered strawberries... and crackers with spicy hummus... and some root beer (another big no-no, the carbonated drinks) I think my body went into shock! I literally was feeling intoxicated from the food! That afternoon I even allowed myself a real-sized piece of birthday cake (in honor of my teacher) instead of my usual sliver of cake without the frosting! It was great! That evening, at another party, I allowed myself another indulgence: alcohol. I must say, thank goodness I had been eating all day because after months of eating mostly salads and abstaining from alcohol, I've become a bit of a lightweight!
Once the festivities were over, in other words, once Saturday dawned, I was back on track. I've returned to my normal eating habits and will be kickboxing again this evening. It's crazy to think that just about six months ago, eating right and regularly exercising was like pulling teeth! Now, if I don't live this healthier way, I find myself out of sorts and clawing the walls to burn some calories!
Well, I'm off to go assist with my very first 'real' wedding party up-do's. When I say real, I mean these are not friends or family but honest to goodness clients that my teacher offered to have me come work with her on! I'm extremely excited to have been given this opportunity and can't wait to see what magic we'll be able to weave! So, it's off to work for me, on this absolutely beautiful Sunday morning. As always, big thanks to all my supporters, you guys ROCK!
Until next time, have a wonderful week!

Weekly weight-loss: 1.6 pounds
Overall weight-loss: 26 pounds

Weighing In - Week Thirteen

I'm holding my own. Even though I've been surrounded by deliciously fattening treats this week, I've been able to control myself. Between Open House for one child, a pre-school graduation ceremony for another and then a birthday party on Saturday, complete with cake, ice cream, chips, dip, potato salad and all, I'm still below 170 pounds. This is an accomplishment.
As I'm sure you know, with all these little events comes stress and chaos in a household. Stress leads cravings and the awful urge to binge. That has been my personal battle for the week and one I'm proud to claim, I've won. My schedule in itself is stressful but with late night shopping and early morning projects, I found myself wanting to snack more and more. What saved me were the mini bags of baby carrots and natural popcorn I keep in constant supply in the kitchen. When overcome by the desire for something a bit more "naughty" on my diet, I chose strawberries and light whipped cream instead of the potato chips or Rocky Road ice cream. All in all, the goal this past week was to make wise decisions. I think I did well.
On the other hand, I'm not proud to say that I've gone 10 days without working out. It's been crazy around here and unfortunately (as is usually the case) something had to give. To make time and leave the energy necessary for pulling off all these various events, my personal 'Mommy Workout Time' was dropped from my schedule. This, I am feeling acutely. Adding my workout time back into my schedule is the goal for the week. I may not be able to go back to twice a day workouts but if I can pull off at least four to five sessions this week, in total, I'll be a happier woman. And maybe I'll have some real results on the scale next week.

Thanks to all my supporters. Until next time, have a wonderful week.

Weekly weight loss: 0.8 pounds
Total weight loss: 24.4 pounds

Weighing In - Week Twelve

"I love this crazy, tragic, sometimes almost magic, awful, beautiful life." Darryl Worley.

This pretty much sums up my week and as the scale shows, I'm just barely hanging on to all my previous hard work.
This week's blog isn't going to be about how hard I've worked out, because I haven't since Wednesday. And it isn't going to be about how I've stuck with my diet, since that too has become a bit erratic. No, this week, it will be about how sometimes life spins out of control and all you can do is go with the flow and hope that once the ride is over, you're able to stand up on your own two feet without losing your lunch.

It all began Sunday evening, after a Mother's Day feast of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits. Basically nothing I considered diet friendly. I was pleasantly stuffed and checking my email, when a well-intentioned friend sent me a link to a PETA video. Normally, I would avoid watching things that I knew would disturb me. I won't lie, "Ignorance is bliss," was my motto when it came to knowing where my dinner came from. But for some reason, I decided it was time to face my fears (big mistake) and burst my own personal bubble, so I watched... and I watched... horrified. And when it was over, I was crying. Physically ill and disturbed beyond any hope of erasing the images and sounds from my mind. And in that moment, Vegetarian-Cheri was born.

Now, because my choice to become a vegetarian is a personal one, I'm not forcing it on my children. No, I will not let my children watch the video (although the boys asked) and no I'm not stopping them from eating their beloved hot dogs, chicken breasts, or steaks. I firmly believe that a decision like this (much like politics and religion) can only be made for ones self. But because I, myself won't be eating meat anymore, I'm able to stretch my budget in a way that will allow me to purchase the pricier, independent, more humanely farmed meats and animal products. We are moving to soy milk as a household not just because of the pathetic life of a diary cow but because it often helps children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and some forms of ADHD. So it seems like a two-for-one, win-win situation, to me. But it becomes a bit trickier with cheese. That's a dilemma I'm still working on. You see, we eat a LOT of cheese in my household... and finding it produced in ways that are not factory/production-line'esque (I know, that's entirely my own language) well, it's something that will take a bit more research. Anyhow, I've gone a week without meat and surprisingly, I'm A-OK with that. I'll admit, it was a little hard trying not to think about where the chicken breasts came from, as I grilled the kids dinner on Monday night but I did it.

In an aside, please note that I'm not on a soapbox preaching to anyone about cutting meat from their diet. This is solely a personal choice and I have no problem with others continuing to be carnivorous. By all means, please, enjoy your cheeseburgers and fried chicken. I used to, so, enough said.

Now, the rest of the week was hectic as everyone in my household was plagued by horrible allergy attacks. The kids weren't sleeping- sneezing, wheezing and coughing their way through the night, which meant I wasn't sleeping either. The mornings were particularly difficult. As many of you know, a tired child is NO fun to get ready in the morning. Times that by three. Yes, it was beyond difficult. Then it seemed, no matter what I did, we were always running late and when I start my day in that manner, it stays that way for the remainder. Always two steps behind everyone else. It's very frustrating and tiring trying to constantly catch up.

Then of course, school was it's own difficulty this week. It turns out, I'm allergic to the hair color the school uses. Every time we began working with it, I became an itchy mess from head to toe. I wanted to crawl out of my skin I was so uncomfortable. I don't look forward to getting out on the salon floor where I'll be exposed to it 8 hours a day, three days a week, for 9 months. Just thinking about it now has me itching!

In addition to chemical allergies, I personally suffered from pollen allergies and with them came the headaches, sneezing, itching eyes, sore throat and body aches. This is where the "diet" flew out the window. Although I continued with my salad lunches and healthy snacks, for my sore throat, I used the "ice cream cure." Nothing better than a bowl of "Cookies & Cream Ice Cream" at bed time to help soothe a painful throat. My kids love this cure, too! And no, this was not the "light" version ice cream. Come on now, what's the point of that?

So now, it's Sunday again. I have one child coughing like mad, another sneezing and coughing, while the third has the sore throat, lethargy and overall "yuck" feeling. All three a whining and easily set off today. OK, all four of us are that way. I myself am a mess. Itchy inner ears, nose, throat (and now itchy skin recalling hair coloring week two of for at school) and I still feeling like I could use another 8 hours of sleep. I wish I could say that I am going to be able to stay in my pajamas all day to rest and relax but I can't. We have family coming in from out of town today and everyone is meeting up this afternoon. Joy! I bet it's going to be a backyard event. Believe me, my family will be well dosed with Benedryl and Claritin, for sure!

I hope everyone else had a wonderful week. All in all, I tell myself, "It could have been much worse." And for that I'm grateful it wasn't. Here's to hoping next week is a little easier and whole lot less itchy. Until next time!

Weekly weight loss: 0.6 pounds
Overall weight loss: 23.6 pounds

Weighing In - Week Eleven

It was bound to happen. I've actually been expecting this for some time now. I gained a pound and a half. While part of me is mentally screaming at myself, a large part is completely OK with this.
It bugs me that despite sticking with the diet and working out two times a day for most of the week, the scale has crept up on me. I know, I know- don't go strictly by the scale. I'm better off going by body mass index and how my clothes fit each day but admit it- when the scale shows weight loss it feels more tangible. So in an effort to put a positive spin on this week's weigh-in, I'm going to focus on the tangible results I've seen thus far.
First off, I've noticed that I've lost almost all the fat from my calves and forearms. They are showing definition which is fabulous. Also, my double chin has begun to melt away. I've still got some of the jowl-iness (Is that even a word? Well it is now!) but I have faith that it will also disappear over the next few months and that my jaw line will become more defined. As I mentioned last week, I've been able to wear pants that didn't fit just a few months ago. My most happy moment this week was when I managed to put on some old 32" waist jeans that I hadn't fit in since 2007. Although they are still a bit too snug for my liking around the waist, I must take into consideration the selling from the hernia in my abdomen. This will not fully go away until I have the surgery to correct it later this year. All in all, I'm pretty happy with my results.
Now, my goal for this week will be to lose that pound and a half again. I'll be perfectly fine if I hit 168.4 lbs again. Of course, I won't complain if I get to 168 lbs flat.
Thanks again to everyone who has cheered me on and those wonderful people who've complimented me in person over the past few weeks. I must say, it feels really good when other people notice and comment on all my hard work. I've been smiling a lot more lately, so thank you. Until next time, have a wonderful week!

Weekly Weight-loss: gained 1.6 pounds
Total Weight-loss: 23 pounds

Weighing In - Week Ten

Holy Crow! 5.6 pounds!?! Wait a moment. Let's try that again... I stepped off the scale, telling myself it was a fluke, a digital mistake. After a moment, I picked the scale up, replaced it on the floor, and waited for it to reset itself. I closed my eyes before stepping back on and counted to 5 before opening them again...

Heck yeah! 5.6 pounds! My best week ever! Wow! If you could have seen me at that moment, I had the most ridiculous grin on my face and actually giggled! Childish I know but I couldn't help myself!
I immediately ran to my closet and grabbed some size 12 pants that were unbearably tight in the waist on me just two weeks ago. No problem. I'm sitting in the now... loving every minute of it!

What is truly amazing to me is that this week I only worked out once per day (needed to let my leg slowly ease back into exercising as not to tear the muscle again) and I had a bit of a hiccup on Wednesday with brownies and cookies in class. Obviously the garden-clipping-tasting salads I eat for lunch each day and the bottles and bottles of V-8 that everyone makes fun of me for drinking, are paying off. Don't get me wrong, I eat other things too. Like the grilled chicken, enchiladas, stir-fry steak strips for dinner and tons of other veggies but instead of hitting up McDonald's for lunch or indulging with the rest of my class at Mountain Mike's Pizza on Friday, I've been really trying to make better food choices. I think the scale says it all this week.

On a bit of a side note... I have a few friends who are also trying to lose weight and who've been discouraged by stepping on their own scales. The diet and exercise changes they have made aren't showing the results they'd like number-wise. To them I say this- Give it time. It's taken me ten weeks to get results like this. My first few weeks were small numbers, sometimes only a pound, maybe less. The longer you stick with it, the better it gets. Don't get down on yourself! As your body adjusts, some weeks will have the snowball effect, each week better than the last while others will be the dreaded plateau where one pound is painfully hard to lose. Although we're all working our butts off for the finish-line, our goal weight, it's each little step of the race that counts. One foot in front of the other, we've got to keep trudging along. We will get there sooner or later. I have faith in us all! We can do it! Especially if we cheer each other on when the journey gets hard and we get discouraged. So many people have helped me get where I am so far, and without them, I don't know if I could have stuck with this and done as well as I have. Thanks to everyone for the great encouragement! I look forward to seeing what the scale says next Sunday. Until then, have a wonderful week!

Weekly weight-loss: 5.6 pounds
Total weigh-loss: 24.6 pounds

Weighing In - Week Nine

I'll take what I can get. In last week's weigh in I had incredible results. Results of hard work, regular exercise. This week's one pound loss is purely the result of adhering to my diet and the residual effects of a metabolism in overdrive from my previous month's workouts. As I said, I'll take what I can get.
Last Sunday, after writing my weekly blog, I decided to spend some time working in the garden. The weather was beautiful and I had loads of energy. My tiny patio garden was lost beneath six months of winter debris and neglect. After an hour of vigorous weeding, raking, and scrubbing of the patio furniture, I was ready to start hauling away the bags of clippings. In my characteristically ungraceful nature, I managed to tear my groin muscle trying to step over the numerous bags of garden waste on the ground. From previous experience with muscle pulls, I knew instantly this wasn't a normal strain. This was serious. Twelve hours of ice and a regular regimen of ibuprofen enabled me to hobble into work the next day but exercising was out of the question. In fact I haven't been able to exercise at all this past week. Not one single time.
I've literally been going a little bit insane from the lack of sweat. It's a sickness, I know. But after contemplating pushing myself and exercising through the pain, my better judgment (OK, the better judgment of my friends and family, who regularly checked to make sure I wasn't trying to over do it) took over and I decided against it. My poor elliptical, sitting alone in the corner, gather dust from disused. It's truly depressing. But now, one week later my leg is feeling better. I am no longer limping around. I'm ready to get back in the saddle and start burning off those calories. I look forward to this next week. I really can't wait to get back to work and start shedding those pounds again. More than one pound per week.
Thank you to everyone who scolded me this week when I complained about being so sedentary. Thank you to those who encouraged me to wait and rest. You helped keep me smart and from going completely insane. Check back in next Sunday and let's see if I've reached the 20-pounds-lost milestone. Until then, thanks!

Weekly weight loss: One pound
Overall weight loss: 19 pounds

Weighing In - Week Eight

Heck yeah! A four pound week! Four pounds!

I'm incredibly happy with my results this week. Can you tell?
If I could climb through the computer screen and hug each and everyone one of you, I would! I have to thank all of my followers. You guys are awesome! I get the best tips and encouragement from you all, so please, keep it coming!

And then I'd have to thank myself. I have almost never been able to stick with any kind of restricted diet. For what ever reason, this time, I am able to. I don't crave drive-thru, I'm not sneaking unhealthy snacks and most shocking to me of all, my sweet tooth seems to have mellowed out considerably! Th past few weeks, I have been living surrounded by buckets of Easter candy, tubs of ice cream in the freezer,and a huge bowl of "Ambrosia" salad in the fridge. Except for one little blip on Thursday at school when I let myself have one too many jelly beans. I've been able to ignore the rest for weeks! Yeah for me!

Now, a new food I tried this week that I should mention 1% Low Fat Cottage Cheese with No Salt Added. I will admit, I hesitated buying this when I read how the amount of sodium per serving compared to my regular 1% cottage cheese. Well, to say the least, I've been pleasantly surprised! My regular cottage cheese listed over 400 mg of sodium per serving where as the 'No Salt Added' only lists about 120 mg. To be honest, I have yet to be able to eat this new cottage cheese without adding a bit of salt (between 1/16 and 1/8 a teaspoon) and a whole lot of black pepper. Maybe I'll be able to wean myself off the added salt altogether but for now, I'll be happy with the significant drop in sodium my diet will be taking.

Another happy food find this week was a 210 calorie pre-assembled salad offered at my grocery store. First off, it isn't made with iceberg lettuce, it's made with a nice spicy greens mix. It's has chicken breast meat, walnuts, a bit of feta cheese and dried cranberries, to be topped with a low calorie cranberry vinaigrette dressing. Yummy! I'm making my self hungry writing about it, and it's only about 8:30 in the morning! I found the chicken meat to not be fatty or over salted. And the amount of dressing provided is in good proportion to the actual salad. This is important if you don't like your salads too dry or soggy. When I'm too behind schedule to pack a good lunch at home, I can swing by the store and pick up one of these delicious and good for my diet salads.

On a final note, I feel compelled to remind every one to start drinking more water. As the weather warms up it's very important to stay properly hydrated. I really noticed a difference in my water intake this week. I've gone from about 80-90 ounces a day, to 115-130 per day. I think this is really helping me stay on track with the diet and just feel healthier overall. Try it!
Well, it's 8:45 AM and I've got to go make my kiddo's some breakfast. I just want to thank everyone, one more time. Thank you! See you next week!

Weekly Weight-loss: 4 lbs
Overall Total Weight-loss: 18 lbs