As you can tell by my titles, I'm really not sure how to label these posts. Oh well.
I'm not going to post as often because, frankly, it's a lot to keep up with! I'm keeping track of my daily calories and not doing anything differently on my end. I just think that posting a few times a week versus trying to do it daily will work better for all involved.
That being said, I have lost another 2lbs! I am back to my "official" pre-pregnancy weight with Mason (the weight from my first doctor's appointment). 10 more pounds and I'll be back to pre-pregnancy weight with Evan, so that's my next short-term goal.
I'm getting better and better at resisting temptations around me... for the most part. Of course I'm not perfect and on Thursday at Bible study I had some gluten-free cake that our pastor made. But I've been sticking to my eating plan and doing really well.
A typical day looks something like this:
Breakfast = 1 apple, 1/2c. nonfat yogurt, 1 cup coffee
Snack = Luna bar or piece of fruit
Lunch = Whole wheat pita with light egg salad, 1 cup raw veggies, hummus and 10 pita chips
Snack = 1/2c. cottage cheese
Dinner = 3oz fish/beef/chicken/pork, 2 cups veggies, 1/2c. whole grain rice or pasta
If I have extra calories left over, on occasion I'll have a cookie or a small alcoholic beverage as my "treat". I've been avoiding food as a reward, though - that's not the point of this adventure! My most recent "reward" was to get a good yoga mat. I just started doing some yoga and I love it!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Week 2, Day 6
After my big screw-up last night, I was back on track today. I even took a picture of my dinner tonight because I was so proud of the balance on my plate!
I also walked/ran for 40 minutes. Sorry for the short post, but I'm off to iron!
I also walked/ran for 40 minutes. Sorry for the short post, but I'm off to iron!
Missteps: For your consideration
Apparently I've found my weakness: eating out with a friend.
Yesterday, a friend of mine came to visit. I haven't seen her since I got married and we were extremely close in college. A lot of our time in college involved food and/or drinking, and last night was very reminiscent of that. We had dinner together and 2 drinks. I completely blew my calories for the day (probably for a couple of days) and ended up feeling slightly sick.
The menu included:
Cheese fries dipped in ranch (we split them)
A cheeseburger with (you guessed it) french fries
2 vodka drinks
A piece of chocolate cake that we split
A piece of carrot cake
I haven't been able to figure out the exact calories, but I think it was close to 2,500 just for that dinner. My normal daily allotment is 1,800! I worked out that morning, but still - that was insane. I did well the rest of the day as far as eating healthy.
So how do I avoid this again? It's not like I don't know what I should do, but it felt SOOOO good to just partake of some comfort food and drink with my old friend. And there were salads on the menu, of course - but I hadn't had a burger or anything in a couple of weeks and I was really craving it. Also, I let myself get over-hungry. I had a very light lunch around noon yesterday, and we didn't eat until 7pm. Normally I have a small snack and light dinner.
I realize this is not the end of the world and that I can't completely deny myself the occasional indulgence. But I do feel like I over-indulged and I'm not feeling so great about that. I could have easily cut down on the calories by not having an appetizer or any dessert, which is what I will strive for next time.
So I am back to it! My husband will be off early today and I'm going to go for my first run/jog while he's home. I have done much better about spreading out my calories evenly today (I'm just past lunch and have eaten 900 calories, which is half my daily number, which is where I should be by lunch in my mind).
I guess one of the reasons for doing this blog is because I know I'm not perfect and I know most people who are trying to lose weight aren't perfect at it, either. It's incredibly hard to overcome the habits that you've made with eating, especially when you get good feelings from it. Last night it felt like we were back in college. But what I need to realize is that the habits I made in college were not necessarily good ones. I can look back on them fondly (sitting around with spoons eating directly from a tub of ice cream??), but that's not who I am now. I could just as easily have eaten a salad and had the same conversation, and next time I will be more mindful of that.
I would appreciate any advice on overcoming this sort of thing - it wasn't just the eating out, but the association I have with some of my friends and food and good feelings from it! I need better ways to spend time talking with friends that don't involve sitting around a table but that allow for conversation.
Yesterday, a friend of mine came to visit. I haven't seen her since I got married and we were extremely close in college. A lot of our time in college involved food and/or drinking, and last night was very reminiscent of that. We had dinner together and 2 drinks. I completely blew my calories for the day (probably for a couple of days) and ended up feeling slightly sick.
The menu included:
Cheese fries dipped in ranch (we split them)
A cheeseburger with (you guessed it) french fries
2 vodka drinks
A piece of chocolate cake that we split
A piece of carrot cake
I haven't been able to figure out the exact calories, but I think it was close to 2,500 just for that dinner. My normal daily allotment is 1,800! I worked out that morning, but still - that was insane. I did well the rest of the day as far as eating healthy.
So how do I avoid this again? It's not like I don't know what I should do, but it felt SOOOO good to just partake of some comfort food and drink with my old friend. And there were salads on the menu, of course - but I hadn't had a burger or anything in a couple of weeks and I was really craving it. Also, I let myself get over-hungry. I had a very light lunch around noon yesterday, and we didn't eat until 7pm. Normally I have a small snack and light dinner.
I realize this is not the end of the world and that I can't completely deny myself the occasional indulgence. But I do feel like I over-indulged and I'm not feeling so great about that. I could have easily cut down on the calories by not having an appetizer or any dessert, which is what I will strive for next time.
So I am back to it! My husband will be off early today and I'm going to go for my first run/jog while he's home. I have done much better about spreading out my calories evenly today (I'm just past lunch and have eaten 900 calories, which is half my daily number, which is where I should be by lunch in my mind).
I guess one of the reasons for doing this blog is because I know I'm not perfect and I know most people who are trying to lose weight aren't perfect at it, either. It's incredibly hard to overcome the habits that you've made with eating, especially when you get good feelings from it. Last night it felt like we were back in college. But what I need to realize is that the habits I made in college were not necessarily good ones. I can look back on them fondly (sitting around with spoons eating directly from a tub of ice cream??), but that's not who I am now. I could just as easily have eaten a salad and had the same conversation, and next time I will be more mindful of that.
I would appreciate any advice on overcoming this sort of thing - it wasn't just the eating out, but the association I have with some of my friends and food and good feelings from it! I need better ways to spend time talking with friends that don't involve sitting around a table but that allow for conversation.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Week 2, Day 4
I skipped yesterday - it was crazy. I ended up getting called for a temp job and quite literally had no time to workout - not good! I really wanted to try the Biggest Loser Yoga.
I met with the nutritionist. She said that I was doing really well and to keep doing what I was doing. I think I could probably stand to be eating more veggies, so I'm going to work on that this week. The official weigh-in:
Start Weight: 195.4
Current Weight: 190.0
Total Loss: 5.4lbs
She also did my measurements.
Bust: 43"
Waist: 36"
Hips: 47"
Thigh: 27"
Bicep: 14"
I'm looking forward to seeing THOSE numbers go down as well. Hello, fat ass - 47"??????? Wow. Impressive.
I plan on starting to run in the next couple of days. I've picked out a running outfit that will work in this cold and I'm going to see if I can use the jogging stroller my mom has. If I can, I think I can go over to my MIL's house and run there a few times a week, and maybe run here in the neighborhood when my husband is home from work.
Today I did the Biggest Loser Yoga DVD. Some interesting points:
1. Yoga. Is. Not. Easy.
2. The whole "as long as you're breathing you'll be just fine" adage is a LIE.
3. You cannot do yoga without a yoga mat.
4. Yoga on a carpet in socks or bare feet will make you do the splits much quicker than you would like.
5. Yoga with cross-trainers is impossible and extremely uncomfortable.
6. Preschoolers can do yoga a lot easier than adults.
I made it through about 17 minutes. I'm going to stick in my 30 Day Shred and do Level One again to complete my workout.
Last night was our weekly Bible study. I did ok - chili (I had a small cup, with no sour cream and no cheese), 2 small ham/cheese/mustard biscuits, and a small handful of Kettle chips. I had water to drink - the couple that always brings the salad didn't come! I also had a very small slice of carrot cake, which cost 340 calories on its own.
Tonight I'm going to make something with chicken. Not sure what yet. I'll probably make spinach linguini and a salad with it.
I met with the nutritionist. She said that I was doing really well and to keep doing what I was doing. I think I could probably stand to be eating more veggies, so I'm going to work on that this week. The official weigh-in:
Start Weight: 195.4
Current Weight: 190.0
Total Loss: 5.4lbs
She also did my measurements.
Bust: 43"
Waist: 36"
Hips: 47"
Thigh: 27"
Bicep: 14"
I'm looking forward to seeing THOSE numbers go down as well. Hello, fat ass - 47"??????? Wow. Impressive.
I plan on starting to run in the next couple of days. I've picked out a running outfit that will work in this cold and I'm going to see if I can use the jogging stroller my mom has. If I can, I think I can go over to my MIL's house and run there a few times a week, and maybe run here in the neighborhood when my husband is home from work.
Today I did the Biggest Loser Yoga DVD. Some interesting points:
1. Yoga. Is. Not. Easy.
2. The whole "as long as you're breathing you'll be just fine" adage is a LIE.
3. You cannot do yoga without a yoga mat.
4. Yoga on a carpet in socks or bare feet will make you do the splits much quicker than you would like.
5. Yoga with cross-trainers is impossible and extremely uncomfortable.
6. Preschoolers can do yoga a lot easier than adults.
I made it through about 17 minutes. I'm going to stick in my 30 Day Shred and do Level One again to complete my workout.
Last night was our weekly Bible study. I did ok - chili (I had a small cup, with no sour cream and no cheese), 2 small ham/cheese/mustard biscuits, and a small handful of Kettle chips. I had water to drink - the couple that always brings the salad didn't come! I also had a very small slice of carrot cake, which cost 340 calories on its own.
Tonight I'm going to make something with chicken. Not sure what yet. I'll probably make spinach linguini and a salad with it.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Week 2, Day 2
Today was my first "real" test in eating out. My mom, sister, sons, and I all went to Red Robin. For those of you playing the home game, Red Robin is a deliciously calorie-packed place, with few and far between lean choices lurking in the corners.
I did fine ordering (a turkey wrap with a side salad instead of fries, and dressing on the side instead of drenched to begin with). Then my skinny minni sister sits down and promptly orders cheese sticks. For those of you who don't know me that well, I LOVE cheese sticks. I have gone to very nice places with my husband and pouted when cheese sticks weren't on the menu and had instead been replaced by something gross, like goat cheese on pickles (or something else they have labeled as "gourmet"). I knew I wanted those cheese sticks. I also really wanted the fries that came out with my son and mother's meals. I love dipping them in ranch dressing, as if being potatoes deep fried in oil doesn't pack enough of a calorie punch for you.
The cheese sticks came out. I quite literally had to shield part of my face and turn away and sort of "check out" for a few minutes. I wanted the cheese sticks, but I want my health and weight-loss more. After a couple of seconds feeling silly like that, I was able to resume normal human activity. I just pretended they weren't there and tried to think about how much better my food would taste - instead of just tasting all that grease.
I didn't have a single cheese stick or french fry. Not even a taste. I was so proud of myself!
Tomorrow I go to the nutritionist for the first time and I have to bring her my food journal. I think I've done pretty well as far as calories go, but I'm not sure that I'm getting the balance that I need. I'm almost certain I need more veggies and probably more fruits. I've been trying to make salads every night with dinner, but I'm really sick of my balsamic vinigrette. I'll probably switch back to light or fat-free ranch and have it on the side instead of on my salad. I like it better that way, because I can get a little dressing with each bite, instead of getting nothing with one bite, then pure dressing the next, etc.
Tomorrow evening will be another challenge. I go to a Bible study each Thursday and the first hour is a dinner. There's usually a salad, but most of the food is really bad for you type of stuff - chicken wings, pumpkin pie, etc. There have been nights where people brought nothing but dessert. I think I will eat ahead of time and just have a small salad if someone brings it. If not, I'm not hungry and I'm not tempted to eat the bad stuff.
I did fine ordering (a turkey wrap with a side salad instead of fries, and dressing on the side instead of drenched to begin with). Then my skinny minni sister sits down and promptly orders cheese sticks. For those of you who don't know me that well, I LOVE cheese sticks. I have gone to very nice places with my husband and pouted when cheese sticks weren't on the menu and had instead been replaced by something gross, like goat cheese on pickles (or something else they have labeled as "gourmet"). I knew I wanted those cheese sticks. I also really wanted the fries that came out with my son and mother's meals. I love dipping them in ranch dressing, as if being potatoes deep fried in oil doesn't pack enough of a calorie punch for you.
The cheese sticks came out. I quite literally had to shield part of my face and turn away and sort of "check out" for a few minutes. I wanted the cheese sticks, but I want my health and weight-loss more. After a couple of seconds feeling silly like that, I was able to resume normal human activity. I just pretended they weren't there and tried to think about how much better my food would taste - instead of just tasting all that grease.
I didn't have a single cheese stick or french fry. Not even a taste. I was so proud of myself!
Tomorrow I go to the nutritionist for the first time and I have to bring her my food journal. I think I've done pretty well as far as calories go, but I'm not sure that I'm getting the balance that I need. I'm almost certain I need more veggies and probably more fruits. I've been trying to make salads every night with dinner, but I'm really sick of my balsamic vinigrette. I'll probably switch back to light or fat-free ranch and have it on the side instead of on my salad. I like it better that way, because I can get a little dressing with each bite, instead of getting nothing with one bite, then pure dressing the next, etc.
Tomorrow evening will be another challenge. I go to a Bible study each Thursday and the first hour is a dinner. There's usually a salad, but most of the food is really bad for you type of stuff - chicken wings, pumpkin pie, etc. There have been nights where people brought nothing but dessert. I think I will eat ahead of time and just have a small salad if someone brings it. If not, I'm not hungry and I'm not tempted to eat the bad stuff.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Week 2, Day 1
It's a miracle! The baby slept for three hour chunks of time. Granted, he only did this while I had him in my wrap and was sleeping partially sitting, but for now - I'll take it.
I made pork tonight that was REALLY good! I mashed up some sweet potatoes that needed to be used and made a salad. The sweet potatoes weren't *really* healthy, but I didn't load them up with sugar or butter. Just a few tablespoons of brown sugar and butter for about 4 cups of sweet potatoes. I'm linking the recipe for the pork here.
Apple Cider Pork Chops
I got through the ENTIRE 30 Day Shred Level One without stopping - and I did the full version of push-ups and butt kicks instead of the beginner version. I'm going to stay at Level One for a few more days before moving on to Level Two. I also borrowed the Biggest Loser Yoga DVD from Mom and I plan to try that tomorrow.
Baby is screaming again.
Oh, PS - I'm using FitDay to keep track of my calories in addition to writing things down in a notebook. It's been great!
I made pork tonight that was REALLY good! I mashed up some sweet potatoes that needed to be used and made a salad. The sweet potatoes weren't *really* healthy, but I didn't load them up with sugar or butter. Just a few tablespoons of brown sugar and butter for about 4 cups of sweet potatoes. I'm linking the recipe for the pork here.
Apple Cider Pork Chops
I got through the ENTIRE 30 Day Shred Level One without stopping - and I did the full version of push-ups and butt kicks instead of the beginner version. I'm going to stay at Level One for a few more days before moving on to Level Two. I also borrowed the Biggest Loser Yoga DVD from Mom and I plan to try that tomorrow.
Baby is screaming again.
Oh, PS - I'm using FitDay to keep track of my calories in addition to writing things down in a notebook. It's been great!
Monday, January 5, 2009
Week 1, Day 7
I didn't post yesterday because it was one of my "days off" and we've been having some pretty rough nights of sleep here with our 5 month old. As in, he wakes up every 45-90 minutes at night wanting to nurse and screams if he doesn't get it. We're trying a variety of things, but it's rough, and it makes working out pretty rough in the mornings, too.
I was only able to work out for about 20 minutes today, which is the longest stretch of time I've made it through CardioMax. I wanted to keep going and finish but the baby had different ideas. His ideas included a lot of screaming and refusing to be comforted.
I need to figure out how to spread my calories through the day better. I keep getting to the end of the day needing to eat between 300-500 calories, and it's really important for me to get those to support breastfeeding.
I also weighed in today!
Start Weight: 195lbs
Today's Weight: 191lbs
Total Loss: 4lbs
Not bad for one week! I go see the nutritionist on Thursday and I will ask her to do measurements for me then. I will also post any new information that she gives me.
I've set a goal for September. In our area there is always a race to support breast cancer research on Labor Day weekend. Thousands of women run in it - it's for women only. My goal is to run between a 9-9 1/2 minute mile and a sister is going to help me. I think she's going to run in it with me, so I'll have someone to train with.
If anyone else wants to run with us, we're going to start training (running) once a week in the next few weeks - even in the cold!
I was only able to work out for about 20 minutes today, which is the longest stretch of time I've made it through CardioMax. I wanted to keep going and finish but the baby had different ideas. His ideas included a lot of screaming and refusing to be comforted.
I need to figure out how to spread my calories through the day better. I keep getting to the end of the day needing to eat between 300-500 calories, and it's really important for me to get those to support breastfeeding.
I also weighed in today!
Start Weight: 195lbs
Today's Weight: 191lbs
Total Loss: 4lbs
Not bad for one week! I go see the nutritionist on Thursday and I will ask her to do measurements for me then. I will also post any new information that she gives me.
I've set a goal for September. In our area there is always a race to support breast cancer research on Labor Day weekend. Thousands of women run in it - it's for women only. My goal is to run between a 9-9 1/2 minute mile and a sister is going to help me. I think she's going to run in it with me, so I'll have someone to train with.
If anyone else wants to run with us, we're going to start training (running) once a week in the next few weeks - even in the cold!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Week 1, Day 5
Well, yesterday afternoon was interesting for working out. I was (barely) able to get in my workout with both kids awake. My preschooler (aka my personal trainer, and I'll explain why in a minute) worked out with me again. He located my 2lb dumbbells and decided that he was going to use those. The kid weighs 32lbs soaking wet and decided to lift over 10% of his body weight for fun.
So we worked out and I was struggling at one point. He looks at me, as only a kid can, and says, "Do it Mommy! I'm doing it!" Whadda guy... We finished 30 Day Shred Level One and I'm stretching, and the same kid says, "Now put in the boy DVD!" Huh??? "Yeah, THAT one!" THAT one would be CardioMax, which I have yet to get through in its entirety WITHOUT having just had my ass kicked by Ms. Michaels. I gave it my best shot and made it 10 minutes. Better than nothing.
Today my trainer is napping, so I did Level 1 by myself, after attempting 15 minutes of CardioMax beforehand. When the weather gets a bit warmer, I plan to start running in the evenings, when it will still be light outside.
I made a great salmon recipe last night, with basmati rice and balsamic glazed carrots - even the preschooler liked it! I'm linking the salmon and carrot recipes here.
Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Balsamic Dijon Salmon Filets
Total calories for a serving of each: 370. And it was a quick meal to prepare, too - about 30 minutes (if you are adding "children" to your preparations, add 15 minutes per "helper".) A 3/4 cup serving of cooked basmati rice gives an additional 160 calories. I reduced my serving to 1/3 to reduce calories.
I'm interested to see how long this takes and what I'm going to look like. I'm thinking my reward is going to be a small, quarter-sized tattoo. I've wanted one for years - why not? Along the way I'll have smaller rewards, like a new pair of jeans or a shirt for every 20lbs lost.
I need some recipe ideas or links for healthy beef dishes that aren't spicy, but flavorful. Anyone?
So we worked out and I was struggling at one point. He looks at me, as only a kid can, and says, "Do it Mommy! I'm doing it!" Whadda guy... We finished 30 Day Shred Level One and I'm stretching, and the same kid says, "Now put in the boy DVD!" Huh??? "Yeah, THAT one!" THAT one would be CardioMax, which I have yet to get through in its entirety WITHOUT having just had my ass kicked by Ms. Michaels. I gave it my best shot and made it 10 minutes. Better than nothing.
Today my trainer is napping, so I did Level 1 by myself, after attempting 15 minutes of CardioMax beforehand. When the weather gets a bit warmer, I plan to start running in the evenings, when it will still be light outside.
I made a great salmon recipe last night, with basmati rice and balsamic glazed carrots - even the preschooler liked it! I'm linking the salmon and carrot recipes here.
Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Balsamic Dijon Salmon Filets
Total calories for a serving of each: 370. And it was a quick meal to prepare, too - about 30 minutes (if you are adding "children" to your preparations, add 15 minutes per "helper".) A 3/4 cup serving of cooked basmati rice gives an additional 160 calories. I reduced my serving to 1/3 to reduce calories.
I'm interested to see how long this takes and what I'm going to look like. I'm thinking my reward is going to be a small, quarter-sized tattoo. I've wanted one for years - why not? Along the way I'll have smaller rewards, like a new pair of jeans or a shirt for every 20lbs lost.
I need some recipe ideas or links for healthy beef dishes that aren't spicy, but flavorful. Anyone?
Friday, January 2, 2009
Week 1, Day 4 (pt.1)
As much fun as it is to workout with my son, I think I'd like to have some times where I'm able to workout with an adult. It'll give me a chance to change up my workout and also to get in some adult conversation/socialization. So, anyone in the greater C'ville area? I'd like to try some different things, too. Running, yoga, pilates, kickboxing, sports in general, etc.
I added a cookie and cocktail for my remaining calories yesterday.
Today so far: 1c. mandarin oranges, 1 1/2 slices wheat toast with 1tsp. butter, 8oz. soy milk (which equals 425calories so far today).
Snacks today will be nonfat yogurt and broccoli. I need to work in a lot more fruits and veggies, and they're better for you if they are either frozen or fresh (versus canned). I'll be making a stop at the store today for more hummus - it's a great snack for me in the afternoon and I can use it on sandwiches in lieu of mayonnaise for taste and fewer calories.
I added a cookie and cocktail for my remaining calories yesterday.
Today so far: 1c. mandarin oranges, 1 1/2 slices wheat toast with 1tsp. butter, 8oz. soy milk (which equals 425calories so far today).
Snacks today will be nonfat yogurt and broccoli. I need to work in a lot more fruits and veggies, and they're better for you if they are either frozen or fresh (versus canned). I'll be making a stop at the store today for more hummus - it's a great snack for me in the afternoon and I can use it on sandwiches in lieu of mayonnaise for taste and fewer calories.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Trying to resist temptation
I managed to resist the urge to "just swing into" a fast food place today. I was really hungry after shopping/looking with my sister and didn't think I would be able to wait and make a good decision at home. Instead of going to a fast food place and totally blowing my goals, I went and bought a small box of Luna bars, and ate one. 130 calories, lots of omega 3s, and it held me off enough to get home and satisfy my craving for something sweet/bad for me with a Slim Fast.
I'm at 1,315 calories for the day. Since I'm nursing, I need 485 more to hit my goal and not mess with being able to have enough milk for my son. Once I figure out how I'm going to achieve that, I'll do it. For now, I'm going to give a bath to the older son and persuade my husband to go to bed early to get more rest.
I'm at 1,315 calories for the day. Since I'm nursing, I need 485 more to hit my goal and not mess with being able to have enough milk for my son. Once I figure out how I'm going to achieve that, I'll do it. For now, I'm going to give a bath to the older son and persuade my husband to go to bed early to get more rest.
Week 1, Day 3
I was so sore yesterday that I only worked out to the Cardio Max DVD for 10 minutes. I suppose it's better than nothing - and I actually wore shoes this time. I think that probably added to my second day discomfort, having done the workout in bare feet. I'm still really sore today, so I'm going to walk a bunch and drink more water. I'm going to workout this afternoon and I'm committing to doing the entire 30 minute CardioMax Level 1. Tomorrow I'm going to go back to Jillian's 30 Day Shred Level 1. Let the ass kicking commence...
Food was pretty good yesterday. I switched food around a bit. I added a whole-wheat pita with lite egg salad and changed the rice to couscous (which is whole wheat). I also made mixed veggies instead of broccoli for dinner.
I went and got my food journal today (read: a cheap little notebook). So far, 2 scrambled eggs with only black pepper, 1 1/2 slices of whole wheat toast with less than 1 tsp. butter, 1/3 c. of whole milk cottage cheese, and 12oz. soy milk. I don't know the caloric values right now, but I'm going to go back and write them down in a few minutes. I have my first visit with the nutritionist a week from today, and it would be awesome if I had lost a few pounds already!
I'm going to be going out around lunch, so I think I'm going to eat beforehand so that I am not tempted by something while I'm out. I'll also save money! My egg salad was pretty good yesterday, I think I might have that again. I'm going to get some broccoli out of the freezer and cook that as well. And maybe some nonfat yogurt.
It seems to be working well to do my workout when the baby is asleep, but the preschooler is awake. He likes to do them with me and I think it makes him feel good to be moving around (especially when we're inside so much because it's really really ridiculously cold outside). I need to figure out some good "I'm really sore and feel like I can't move and I don't even want to touch my own muscles" workouts - things I can do inside or outside. I suppose doing jumping jacks and butt kicks would be better than nothing? My thighs are the only part of me still sore and I quite literally am uncomfortable having even the 5 month old sitting on my lap.
Suggestions?
Food was pretty good yesterday. I switched food around a bit. I added a whole-wheat pita with lite egg salad and changed the rice to couscous (which is whole wheat). I also made mixed veggies instead of broccoli for dinner.
I went and got my food journal today (read: a cheap little notebook). So far, 2 scrambled eggs with only black pepper, 1 1/2 slices of whole wheat toast with less than 1 tsp. butter, 1/3 c. of whole milk cottage cheese, and 12oz. soy milk. I don't know the caloric values right now, but I'm going to go back and write them down in a few minutes. I have my first visit with the nutritionist a week from today, and it would be awesome if I had lost a few pounds already!
I'm going to be going out around lunch, so I think I'm going to eat beforehand so that I am not tempted by something while I'm out. I'll also save money! My egg salad was pretty good yesterday, I think I might have that again. I'm going to get some broccoli out of the freezer and cook that as well. And maybe some nonfat yogurt.
It seems to be working well to do my workout when the baby is asleep, but the preschooler is awake. He likes to do them with me and I think it makes him feel good to be moving around (especially when we're inside so much because it's really really ridiculously cold outside). I need to figure out some good "I'm really sore and feel like I can't move and I don't even want to touch my own muscles" workouts - things I can do inside or outside. I suppose doing jumping jacks and butt kicks would be better than nothing? My thighs are the only part of me still sore and I quite literally am uncomfortable having even the 5 month old sitting on my lap.
Suggestions?
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Day Two, Part One
I woke up this morning feeling like I had been beaten with metal rods yesterday. My thighs, abs, back, and shoulders are so sore it's embarrassing. Since they are the areas that are the most uncomfortable, I'm guessing two things: 1) These are the areas of my body that are most out of shape; and 2) Working out today is going to be really, really hard.
I'm using this blog partially as a way to be accountable, so I'm not going to hide anything or pretend I'm doing everything perfectly. Here's my really messed up food for the day: I ate the remaining tiramisu that was sitting in my fridge for breakfast "before it went bad and so it wouldn't be sitting there anymore to taunt me." So now that I've blown my calories out of the water already (well, not entirely, it wasn't THAT much), my food plan for the rest of the day is:
-Nonfat yogurt snack
-Fresh spinach, green leaf, and tomato salad with a hard boiled egg and balsamic vinaigrette for lunch
-1/4 c. plain, store-bought hummus with one half of a whole wheat pita for snack
-Plain basmati rice, roasted beets (fresh beets not the nasty pickled kind), herbed chicken, and broccoli for dinner
At least the tiramisu is gone and I have no plans to make it again for a long, long time (the last time I made it was almost 3 years ago). I also am going to focus my cooking abilities on making really good, really tasty healthy food for meals instead of trying to find new and complicated desserts. The fajitas last night were really good. I thought they were a little spicy, but my husband loved them. I ate them without sour cream, and when my mouth was burning after, I took about a half teaspoon of sour cream by itself and ate that to cool my mouth down. And I only ate 2 and called it a night instead of continuing to eat. I let it "sit" before going back for more and felt satisfied. I also used a smaller salad plate instead of a full-sized dinner plate.
So, how am I going to work out today? My son was up every 1 1/2 hours last night so I'm completely wiped out. I'm hoping I might get to nap when my mother-in-law comes over to see the boys, and maybe that will help me to be able to work out this afternoon. I'm going to try the "Biggest Loser: CardioMax" DVD today. I'm going to do some light warm ups and stretches this morning and see if that helps my sore muscles.
Any advice from anyone out there on easing sore muscles so that you feel comfortable enough to work out? Also, any links to some good recipes for healthy eating? I like most things except for some fish/seafood and I'm not too big on really spicy stuff.
Thanks guys!
I'm using this blog partially as a way to be accountable, so I'm not going to hide anything or pretend I'm doing everything perfectly. Here's my really messed up food for the day: I ate the remaining tiramisu that was sitting in my fridge for breakfast "before it went bad and so it wouldn't be sitting there anymore to taunt me." So now that I've blown my calories out of the water already (well, not entirely, it wasn't THAT much), my food plan for the rest of the day is:
-Nonfat yogurt snack
-Fresh spinach, green leaf, and tomato salad with a hard boiled egg and balsamic vinaigrette for lunch
-1/4 c. plain, store-bought hummus with one half of a whole wheat pita for snack
-Plain basmati rice, roasted beets (fresh beets not the nasty pickled kind), herbed chicken, and broccoli for dinner
At least the tiramisu is gone and I have no plans to make it again for a long, long time (the last time I made it was almost 3 years ago). I also am going to focus my cooking abilities on making really good, really tasty healthy food for meals instead of trying to find new and complicated desserts. The fajitas last night were really good. I thought they were a little spicy, but my husband loved them. I ate them without sour cream, and when my mouth was burning after, I took about a half teaspoon of sour cream by itself and ate that to cool my mouth down. And I only ate 2 and called it a night instead of continuing to eat. I let it "sit" before going back for more and felt satisfied. I also used a smaller salad plate instead of a full-sized dinner plate.
So, how am I going to work out today? My son was up every 1 1/2 hours last night so I'm completely wiped out. I'm hoping I might get to nap when my mother-in-law comes over to see the boys, and maybe that will help me to be able to work out this afternoon. I'm going to try the "Biggest Loser: CardioMax" DVD today. I'm going to do some light warm ups and stretches this morning and see if that helps my sore muscles.
Any advice from anyone out there on easing sore muscles so that you feel comfortable enough to work out? Also, any links to some good recipes for healthy eating? I like most things except for some fish/seafood and I'm not too big on really spicy stuff.
Thanks guys!
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Day One, Part Two
So today I started exercising again. This is something my fatass has not done for over a year. It was an interesting experience.
I decided to check out the DVD before committing to it - for several reasons.
First, I wanted to see what sort of workout I was in for. It looked so simple that I thought it must be a joke.
Second, I am notoriously clumsy and klutzy and wanted to see exactly how stupid I would look whilst engaging in said workout. Noted to self that workout must be done in the view of no one except my nearly-4-year-old.
Third, I wanted to see if it was something I thought I could do on a regular basis.
Fourth, I wanted to see if the DVD trainer person was normal or so perky I spent the whole time wanting to mute the video.
I watched the DVD while making a salad for dinner (something else I haven't done in well over a year). It was "Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred" - one of the trainers from "The Biggest Loser" (which I, incidentally, have never seen personally). Thankfully, she is not one of the "perky-I've-had-8-gallons-of-coffee-and-Red-Bull" trainers that I so vehemently loathe watching. She actually seemed normal and like someone that would mildly intimidate me in real life. I figured I could take her DVD with no problem.
After the salad was finished, I changed and put the DVD in to do the workout. I got my 5lb hand weights and pushed the coffee table aside.
My almost 4 year old, fresh from his nap, decided to join me. This, I thought, could be fatal to him. Who knows where my limbs might end up.
But join me he did and we were off.
The DVD has 20 minute segments and I did Level One. I used to be really into sports and activity when I was younger and figured that I would get back into the swing of it with no problem.
Read carefully: I was wrong. Read it again if you need to.
This "simple workout" that I though I was in for KICKED MY ASS. I didn't know it was possible to feel so sore and exhausted from just 20 minutes. I stuck with it (taking only a 45-60 second break towards the end when I thought I might throw up and/or pass out) and didn't permanently damage my son with my flailing limbs.
Tonight's meal: steak fajitas (I will be having mine with very light sour cream, no guacamole, and lots of lettuce and tomato and peppers) and salad.
I decided to check out the DVD before committing to it - for several reasons.
First, I wanted to see what sort of workout I was in for. It looked so simple that I thought it must be a joke.
Second, I am notoriously clumsy and klutzy and wanted to see exactly how stupid I would look whilst engaging in said workout. Noted to self that workout must be done in the view of no one except my nearly-4-year-old.
Third, I wanted to see if it was something I thought I could do on a regular basis.
Fourth, I wanted to see if the DVD trainer person was normal or so perky I spent the whole time wanting to mute the video.
I watched the DVD while making a salad for dinner (something else I haven't done in well over a year). It was "Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred" - one of the trainers from "The Biggest Loser" (which I, incidentally, have never seen personally). Thankfully, she is not one of the "perky-I've-had-8-gallons-of-coffee-and-Red-Bull" trainers that I so vehemently loathe watching. She actually seemed normal and like someone that would mildly intimidate me in real life. I figured I could take her DVD with no problem.
After the salad was finished, I changed and put the DVD in to do the workout. I got my 5lb hand weights and pushed the coffee table aside.
My almost 4 year old, fresh from his nap, decided to join me. This, I thought, could be fatal to him. Who knows where my limbs might end up.
But join me he did and we were off.
The DVD has 20 minute segments and I did Level One. I used to be really into sports and activity when I was younger and figured that I would get back into the swing of it with no problem.
Read carefully: I was wrong. Read it again if you need to.
This "simple workout" that I though I was in for KICKED MY ASS. I didn't know it was possible to feel so sore and exhausted from just 20 minutes. I stuck with it (taking only a 45-60 second break towards the end when I thought I might throw up and/or pass out) and didn't permanently damage my son with my flailing limbs.
Tonight's meal: steak fajitas (I will be having mine with very light sour cream, no guacamole, and lots of lettuce and tomato and peppers) and salad.
Day One: The Beginning
As I have decided thrice before in my life, I am beginning a weight-loss "journey". I am a 25 year old mother of two boys (ages nearly 4 and 5 months as of today). I am married to a wonderful husband who has supported me in ways I can't even begin to count. I have a good support system around me for losing weight - my mother and sister have both succeeded before me and maintained their weight loss.
I have lost weight before (most recently nearly 30lbs on Weight Watchers just prior to my wedding in 2007). But I've never maintained my weight loss, and this is my biggest challenge. I decided to give myself a few months after the birth of my second son to "wrap my head around" the idea of losing weight again. I needed to be committed and I needed to have a real plan of action that I could follow through with.
I decided to start a blog because I am 100% certain that there are many, many other people out there just like me - those who can lose weight, but have not committed to maintaining their weight loss. I figured that maybe reading about my journey would help other people. I'm really tired of searching for "weight loss blogs" and finding ads disguised as blogs for things like acai berry, green tea, beetle dung tablets, whatever - I don't want the "magic pill", I want real life.
So this is my real life weight loss journey.
I am 5'6" and my starting weight is 195lbs. I could excuse it as baby weight or I could say I just don't have time, but it would just be excuses. I wear size 14 jeans, large shirts, and size 12-14 dresses. Everyone has a different starting weight and a different motivator for losing weight. I hate the way my fat rolls on my stomach feel when I'm sitting, the way I have another chin that I've certainly never had before, and the fact that cute clothes don't come in my size because they don't LOOK cute on my size. I hate my weight and my body - which does not mean I hate myself. I'm in here somewhere.
I'm going to be seeing a family friend who is a nutritionist, following Jillian Michaels online, working out to a variety of home DVDs, and weighing in weekly.
My ultimate weight loss goal seems very lofty to me from this starting point: my ideal weight is 130-140lbs. Which means that I have between 55-65lbs to lose.
I can't deal with that big a number, so I will be going through my weight loss 5lbs by 5lbs. My first goal is to reach 190lbs.
I am a breastfeeding mother, so I have to make sure I do not mess around with my milk supply. My understanding right now is that I will need extra water and about 300 extra calories per day above my "weight loss" calorie number.
My weight-loss number (without accounting for nursing my son) is 1,523 calories per day as a stay at home mother with light activity. Accounting for nursing, I will be starting with eating 1,800 calories to see what happens with my milk supply. I will be keeping track of my daily food/calorie intake in a small notebook that I can carry in my purse. At this caloric intake, I *should* lose 2lbs per week.
If I stick with this, it should take me about 33 weeks to lose 65lbs. However, that is not accounting for any setbacks or plateaus. I am counting on this journey taking me the better part of an entire year. That is my commitment: it means I will have to go through birthdays, parties, holidays, weddings, etc. and still stick to my plan. I will need to plan ahead to attend these occasions and be successful.
I'm happy to hear from anyone who is going through weight loss or has successfully lost weight and maintained it in the past. Any hints or tips are much appreciated, and if you want to lose weight with me... come along!
I have lost weight before (most recently nearly 30lbs on Weight Watchers just prior to my wedding in 2007). But I've never maintained my weight loss, and this is my biggest challenge. I decided to give myself a few months after the birth of my second son to "wrap my head around" the idea of losing weight again. I needed to be committed and I needed to have a real plan of action that I could follow through with.
I decided to start a blog because I am 100% certain that there are many, many other people out there just like me - those who can lose weight, but have not committed to maintaining their weight loss. I figured that maybe reading about my journey would help other people. I'm really tired of searching for "weight loss blogs" and finding ads disguised as blogs for things like acai berry, green tea, beetle dung tablets, whatever - I don't want the "magic pill", I want real life.
So this is my real life weight loss journey.
I am 5'6" and my starting weight is 195lbs. I could excuse it as baby weight or I could say I just don't have time, but it would just be excuses. I wear size 14 jeans, large shirts, and size 12-14 dresses. Everyone has a different starting weight and a different motivator for losing weight. I hate the way my fat rolls on my stomach feel when I'm sitting, the way I have another chin that I've certainly never had before, and the fact that cute clothes don't come in my size because they don't LOOK cute on my size. I hate my weight and my body - which does not mean I hate myself. I'm in here somewhere.
I'm going to be seeing a family friend who is a nutritionist, following Jillian Michaels online, working out to a variety of home DVDs, and weighing in weekly.
My ultimate weight loss goal seems very lofty to me from this starting point: my ideal weight is 130-140lbs. Which means that I have between 55-65lbs to lose.
I can't deal with that big a number, so I will be going through my weight loss 5lbs by 5lbs. My first goal is to reach 190lbs.
I am a breastfeeding mother, so I have to make sure I do not mess around with my milk supply. My understanding right now is that I will need extra water and about 300 extra calories per day above my "weight loss" calorie number.
My weight-loss number (without accounting for nursing my son) is 1,523 calories per day as a stay at home mother with light activity. Accounting for nursing, I will be starting with eating 1,800 calories to see what happens with my milk supply. I will be keeping track of my daily food/calorie intake in a small notebook that I can carry in my purse. At this caloric intake, I *should* lose 2lbs per week.
If I stick with this, it should take me about 33 weeks to lose 65lbs. However, that is not accounting for any setbacks or plateaus. I am counting on this journey taking me the better part of an entire year. That is my commitment: it means I will have to go through birthdays, parties, holidays, weddings, etc. and still stick to my plan. I will need to plan ahead to attend these occasions and be successful.
I'm happy to hear from anyone who is going through weight loss or has successfully lost weight and maintained it in the past. Any hints or tips are much appreciated, and if you want to lose weight with me... come along!
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