sretching

I didn't do much this morning, just some stretching. I had a hard time sleeping last night so I slept in. we had a great weekend and Saturday I did my cardio and we did a lot of walking/climbing stairs at the Nelson.
I had a bit of a stomach ache this morning too, not sure what the reason is for that. I am hoping it goes away so I can focus on work.
Since I slept in, I'm running behind this morning. Hoping everyone had a good weekend, and here's to another great week.

No Plan B & No Pain No Loss

I couldn't decide on the title for today, inspired by Manifest and my own pain this morning as I was doing leg lifts. I discovered yet another move to help in my toning as I continue to loose weight, and to frank...my butt is sore! So, the no pain no loss title fits. My Manifest inspiration came because that's the song that was playing while I did that portion of my routine. I think the alternating between cardio and toning is going to work out well. I hope I see some results from it in the next week or so. 
I haven't heard from the pharmacist yet about my blood pressure meetings, I don't remember how long it was going to be before she called me. I am hoping to get started on that soon so that I can talk to my doctor about it when I go in in a couple weeks. i can give a more official weight loss number after I see her, that's the scale I really go by, but since that weigh in is only once every three months, i really want to keep up on my own.
Its about that time, time to get ready so I can see some smiling faces at work. Don't forget the Olympic opening ceremony is tonight on NBC at 6:30! I am excited to watch USA win as many medals as they can, especially in Equestrian and Gymnastics (my two favorites). Have a great weekend!

workin up a sweat

I don't know if its because its warm in here on top of me dancing or if its just the dancing, but I really worked up a sweat this morning. Maybe it also has to do with the songs I chose..."Pump It" by Black Eyed Peas and "Party Rock Anthem" by LMFAO. Either way, the air kicked on and it feels really good.
I'm feeling pretty awake this morning, and I actually got a few things done. Lately I've been being sluggish and that resulted in running behind. This morning I actually slept until 7, and forced myself to get up because that is late for me. I made nectar for my hungry birds (not just the hummingbirds, now we have regular chickadees and two downy woodpeckers) loaded/started the dishwasher and started dinner (bbq pineapple chicken in the crockpot...thanks pinterest!)
Feeling like I've already got a lot accomplished, and getting antsy about the weekend. I cannot wait to spend some time with some good friends that I haven't spent time with in what seems like forever!

dancin fool

I set up the Wii this morning after living in the apartment for two months I figure it was finally time. My goal is to do cardio dancing and my ab/arm routine on alternating days, working my way up to possibly doing both every day. I love to dance, not that I like to do it public much...of course I dance with the kids in my class...when a two year old asks you to dance with them you can't really refuse.
Yet another yummy smoothie for breakfast, I am getting better at peeling the frozen bananas, I think next time I will slice them and then freeze them. As far as the rest of my food choices for the day, not so good. Hoping to remedy that the rest of this week by being strict with myself.

progress pictures...

So this is taking some guts for me...literally. I am still working on my tummy issues and my legs too...well just everything. Don't get me wrong, I am proud of myself but I'm still self conscious. Well, here goes. The first two are at week four of my journey, and the next two were taken this morning. 

music that makes me move

So I tried an experiment to see if my whole thing about working out to music was true. Yesterday I just did my routine while the news was on and this morning I turned my iTunes workout playlist on. The results were that not only did I get more of my routine done, but I did it faster and I was more motivated to do it compared to yesterday.
Good news and bad news in the results from yesterday's numbers and risks thing for our insurance. Jon's numbers are good, mine are horrid. The main issue is my blood pressure. I am starting a program where I will meet with a pharmacist three times a month (for free) and she will coordinate with my doctor as far as what my medicine will be, which I will get for free. My weight, BMI and waist measurement of course were all way above what they should be, but lower than last year and the rest of my numbers as far as cholesterol, triglycerides, etc. were fine. So, I guess I'll continue this journey with another goal, to get my blood pressure down. To make it even more positive even though it was taken on a different scale, my weight went down another 2lbs. I am down to 265lbs making my total weight loss 44lbs and I have just 6lbs more to go to my short term 50lb goal!
For dinner tonight: burgers with grilled onion and sweet corn! Not the healthiest I know...smaller burger for me!

goodbye weekend...

I hate Mondays when I have to wake up extra early. I'd love to crawl back in bed and stay until I am ready to get up instead of when the alarm clock says I need to get up.
I liked the last couple weekends when I didn't have anything to do so the apartment was clean, laundry and dishes were done and I had a meal cooked and ready to go for my lunches for the week. oh well, I had a good weekend despite being busy.
Don't underestimate the power of stretching. Stretching before and after my routine can mean upping my reps and means I'm not hurting later on in the day. Yeah, I need to remember that next time I'm in a rush. I didn't hurt myself, just feeling a little sore.
Jon and I go in for our yearly risks and numbers thing for his insurance this morning...that's why I'm up and moving around earlier than normal. I know my numbers should be better, but I'm worried about Jon's numbers. maybe its just because I'm up early and still in a funk, but I'm not feeling as good about my progress as I have been. When I weigh in later at the appointment I am hoping for a change between last week and this week but I'm not expecting one because of the two days I didn't do my routine. Maybe its time I start adding some different exercises to focus on some other areas too. I'm thinking my calves and my arms. I am also thinking that its about time to visit the elliptical machine in the club house.

Its Been Awhile...

I guess three days without posting makes you wonder about my progress. Well I can tell you Thursday I did my routine without fail. Friday and Saturday however are different stories. No excuses, I know. having my routine messed with is how I see it, but I've had it messed with before and that has never stopped me. Jon was home, and that is distracting but not a reason to not do my routine. I have not been without activity, but not anything that could really be counted.This morning I did my routine. I was able to up the reps to my arm reps and to the butt lifts. 
I am not looking forward to these hot temps this coming week. Our ac, even though it is set between 73 and 75 depending on if we are home or not, is running what seems like constantly. I am thankful for even pay. (as  I type the weatherman put a frowny face on the radar). I am however, looking forward to more smoothies because Jon's store had yet another awesome sale on fruit. Thanks to a friend, I now know that I can freeze my bananas and blueberries and not have to use ice! No more chunks!
On another note, to make me feel bad about my physical routine, there are kids running a triathlon today in lees summit who are 10-17 years old. kudos to them for being disciplined enough to train for it.

Conserving Energy

Its not what you think..really. Jon and I got our first electric bill yesterday, and it seems living on the third floor really takes a toll. With all of this heat, our AC apparently has been running a lot. So, we are unplugging all of the non-essentials while we aren't using like the laptop, entertainment center (tv/dvd player), phone chargers, appliances etc. Whatever we aren't using that isn't essential to say, keeping our food cold or letting us know what time it is.
Back to the topic at hand. Good news is I didn't have to force myself to do my routine this morning, even though I am running a little behind in my schedule. Normally by now I would be in the shower. I'm feeling pretty good about it all right now, loosing those 2lbs is helping to keep me going this week. The smoothie worked pretty well at keeping me full yesterday so I think I am going to keep that up, although it may get expensive if we don't get some rain soon.
Jon and I are also cutting out any non-essential expenses. We are wanting to go on a nice vacation next year, and with groceries and gas going back up ( and internet too) we need to cut back. We won't be going to Blue Springs or his parents' house as often, just once a week. I feel blessed that my work is right down the street and a tank of gas for me lasts almost two weeks. We also decided to cut out on the eating out except for once a week when we go out with my parents for lunch on Sundays. 
I am so thankful and feel so blessed that I have so many people cheering me on in this long journey and I thank all of you so much for it. Here is to four weeks and counting. *hugs*

Smoothie Goodness

Feeling pretty good this morning, still tired though. Winslow decided to snuggle with me while I did my routine this morning. Its his last morning here with me, he goes home with Mom this afternoon. Smoothie for breakfast this morning, I am not quite sure if that is going to work or not. I changed the recipe from the last one I had. Instead of milk I added some lemonade we have, and of course it tasted great...but that added sugar and calories. 1 banana, three or four strawberries depending on the size, half of a peach add milk or juice and ice.
I am not looking forward to the 100 degree weather we are getting the rest of this week. I think a trip to the pool may be in order after work some time this week, its been about a week since I've been. I still haven't been walking other than with Winslow, but not as far as we did that first time. I'd really like to go, but not in this heat. I'd even be willing to drive way out to Blue Springs...

two more down...

Thats right I lost two more pounds this week! That brings the total to 42lbs and my current weight at 267. I have eight more to go until the 50lb mark, and 68 more to loose till I'm offically under 200lbs. I haven't been under 200 since high school. I've never been at my ideal weight...unless you count when I was little. I've got a great feeling about it all now, even though once again this morning I forced myself to do my routine. Maybe its the getting over this sinus stuff that is causing me to be less motivated, but when I stepped on the scale this morning I felt loads better.
This morning I also noticed how loose my jeans are. I'm not sure what size I'm wearing today (I have a mix of 26 and 24) but I am hoping to buy 22s. I am keeping a look out for fall clothing sales at Target and Old Navy (if you see them let me know) I am in need of some new long sleved shirts, and come winter my sweaters are going to be way too big! Jon bought them for me two christmases ago and they are 3X. I think I may take them to a consignment store, they are still in good condition.
Mom and Dad come home tonight, their flight is in at 9:05. Winslow will be going home with Mom tomorrow afternoon, she's coming over for lunch. It's been nice having Winslow, and i'm sure I will miss him but I am glad he is going home.

Fruity Breakfast

Good Sunday morning! Once again this morning I forced myself to do my routine, got my reps back up to 20. My motivation is looking good in my clothes. I am struggling in my heart for that being my motivation because of the vain or prideful feeling it has to it. Am I wrong in my motivation?
In other news, (not really news just need a change in subject a little) our fridge and counter looks like the produce department exploded. Jon's store had a great sale on fruit this past week and we took advantage. I am planning on my breakfast this week being a peach/banana/strawberry smoothie. I am hoping that the fruit will fill me up and last me until lunch...something the cereal has not been doing.
Winslow is begging for a walk, and I don't want a puddle on my carpet so I better wrap it up. I hope this Sunday finds you worshiping our Lord, and His word in your heart.

first excuses...

Today would be the fourth day with a stuffy head an sinus pain. I made myself do the reps today, although I only made it to 15. I felt icky yesterday since I hadn't exercised in three days and I knew that even with this sinus yuckiness that I have had I could have still done my routine at least on Thursday and Friday. I am disappointed in myself. 

On a more positive note, I wore a dress to the pre-school graduation Thursday and I felt good because not only did the dress fit well, but due to my exercising, my calves had some shape to them. Then when I looked at the pictures on Facebook (check them out on my timeline under NEEC Graduation 2012) I saw myself and I know I still have a lot more work to do. Which made me feel worse about the three day break.

Healthier Crock Pot and Cream of Whatever Replacement

I love my crock pot. I can throw something together in the morning and it's ready to eat when I get home. That works since I don't get off work until 6 most nights. The problem is, most crock pot recipes call for cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, and other cream of whatever soups. These are high in fat, carbs and they all are loaded with gluten. So when I see a recipe on Pinterest for healthier crock pot recipes I repin it right away. I also pinned an alternative to the cream of whatever that is not only gluten free but is healthier and cheaper. Below is a link to some healthier crock pot recipes and the cream of whatever replacement recipe. Enjoy!

http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2012/03/soup-or-sauce-sos-mix.html

http://skinnyms.com/top-10-slow-cooker-recipes-on-skinny-ms/

pasta, sinuses and whales

My new craving? Spaghetti with meatballs...my Dad's meatballs. Unfortunately he is in Nova Scotia going on a whale watching expedition today. My sinuses are draining which means a sore throat, stuffy nose and a headache. Luckily I have meds for that. Can't fix the missing my parents part though. I don't know how my friends that live states away from their families do it.

This morning I stepped up the reps to 20 for all exercises. needless to say, my legs hurt a bit so I'm doing some extra stretching. 

I am hoping to get in the pool again sometime this week, and go for a walk at some point too. Winslow likes the walking part since he gets to go. I am getting extra motivation from my clothes starting to fit more loosely. 

On tonight's menu: spaghetti with marinara and MLB All-Star game.

Dear Monday, I'm not a fan.

But really who is? Don't get me wrong, I love my job, but its just so nice outside!
We had a great time at MLB All Star Fan Fest yesterday, I wish everyone could experience it at least once in their lives. I think we are even going to watch the game on Tuesday, not sure where yet though.
Winslow was in his kennel for most of the day yesterday...between church and the fan fest he wasn't happy with me. he did get to play with Reggie for a little while though.
Back to the topic at hand. I upped some of my reps to 20 this morning, the bicycle is still at 15 and leg crunches at 15 as well. I'm starting to notice little differences in my body shape, and I look different from the family pictures we took about a month ago.

I am hoping to start saving for a nice vacation sometime in the next year to give me an extra motivation. I'm thinking a cruise or somewhere with a beach...

Workin Out Playlist

I have added four songs to my workin' out playlist on my iPhone...these are contemporary christian artists and the songs are upbeat and positive.

"Good Morning" Mandisa featuring TobyMac
"No Plan B" Manafest (kinda hard rock)
"Funky Jesus Music" TobyMac
"Me Without You" TobyMac
"Move" MercyMe
"So Long Self" Mercy Me

I'll keep you updated on new additions to my playlist so you can add them to yours too!

Walkin with Winslow...

Winslow and I took a walk this morning, we went up to the club house and back. Its about a 1/2 mile to the complex entrance, so I gather we walked at least that much maybe a little more. Needless to say we were both hot and in need of some water and air conditioning.

After I finish posting I am going to do my routine, hoping Winslow will let me be since hes tired out. I did weigh myself this morning the results are...269! Lost another lb and I'm offically at 40 lbs lost! I decided that once I hit 50lbs I am going to get my hair done...its been awhile and I actually miss my short hair.

I am proud of myself and I get motivation from all of you cheering me on. I feel so blessed to have so many friends who support me in this long journey.

Another Taco Recipe...

So I'm in a mexican food mood! I found yet another healthier recipe for tacos on Pinterest...this time its pork instead of chicken, but it uses the same concept!

http://www.canyoustayfordinner.com/2011/03/08/slow-cooker-mexican-pulled-pork-tacos/

Up at O'dark thirty and still at it...

I got up with Jon at 4:15 this morning! I don't plan on going back to bed like I normally do either. I'm taking my parents to the airport so that they can leave for Boston and their ship leaves tomorrow for their cruise to Canada.
Winslow was my work out partner again this morning, but instead of a face bath I got a rope in my hair. he is laying down in front of me staring at me as I type.
I ended up doing 20 reps of the backwards bicycle, guess I tuned out for 5 reps. I am super tired, but luckily tomorrow is Saturday and I can be lazy.
Hoping that the forecast is right and next week is going to be cooler so I can finally go walking in the evening. So far its supposed to be in the 80s for most of the week, which is a cold snap compared to what it has been!

fireworks and a playful puppy

Made it past the two week mark! Since yesterday was a holiday, I didn't post but I did do my routine. We had a great time at Mom and Dad's in Blue Springs, yummy pulled pork and my red, white and blue cake was a hit.
We brought Winslow home with us, we're puppy sitting while Mom and Dad are on vacation. He was convinced that I was on the floor to play with him while I was doing my routine this morning. He chased my arms as I did the last few sets and my face was cleaned while I was laying down.
Even with a day off in the middle of the week, I am looking forward to the weekend and some much needed rest...the cold is still taking a lot out of me and this Saturday is the first one in awhile that we don't have anything planned. I am hoping it will be a little cooler so we can take Winslow for a long walk.

Turkey Taco Yumminess

Ok, I have to admit I have cravings for certain foods and I go through cycles. If I can find healthy options and still feed the craving, its a win-win.
Here is a link to a recipe I want to try this week. Turkey Taco lettuce Wraps. I have posted the link below, but its also available on my "healthy eating" pin board on pinterest.

http://www.skinnytaste.com/2009/04/turkey-taco-lettuce-wraps-3-pts.html

a cold, water and hummingbirds

I have a cold. In the middle of summer. yuck. I am starting something new...I have this weight Watchers water bottle that has markings to help you keep track of how much you are drinking, and in this heat (and with this cold) I need to drink more water.
During my routine this morning, the hummingbirds that visit my feeder and flowers were very active. Which is odd, because they tend to be more active in the evenings since its been so hot.
I am looking forward to the fireworks tomorrow...and the day off with Jon, and time with my family. Tomorrow marks two weeks since I started this, and I am proud of myself for sticking with it so far. Finding the time is a phrase I think is an excuse i use a lot for too many things. In this case, taking just 15 minutes out of my morning routine to work on myself, there's no excuse why I can't.

Time to step it up!

After not feeling much burn yesterday just doing 12 reps, I thought it was time to step it up to 15 reps. I'm feeling that burn again. I also tried 10 sit ups...probably not the best idea. Upper mid back is hurting, I'm doing some stretches to try and relieve that mistake. Probably will take some ibuprofen before heading to work.
Noticed that my knee was still bothering me a bit yesterday after church, but after a nap I didn't notice any pain. I am hoping that keeping up with my routine will help get rid of my knee pain for good. My new favorite workout songs: "Good Morning" Mandisa, and "No Plan B" Manafest. Anyone have any suggestions? I prefer alternative christian music, gives a positive beginning to my day ( in addition to prayer and Bible reading).

Chicken Taco Deliciousness

I love this recipe! We have used it a few times and I love to put fat-free sour cream and salsa on the chicken and eat it by itself, I've also used corn tortillas (warmed up) instead of flour tortillas to make a taco. Super easy...just put two-four boneless skinless chicken breast in the crockpot and put a jar (medium sized) of chunky salsa on top of the chicken. Perfect for tacos or by itself. Here's the link, try it for yourself!

http://mychocolatetherapy.blogspot.com/2012/01/crockpot-chicken-tacos.html

Can't Stop Me!

Missed two days of blogging, but still did my routine Friday. Yesterday was our open house and we had a few people come, but it was a lot of work (started at 7am) hanging pictures, cleaning and baking. 
I weighed myself this morning and I'm now at 270, with a total weight loss of 39lbs. This means I have 11lbs to go on my 50lb goal, but still have a ways to go on my 200lb goal. I really paid for being on my feet most of the day yesterday, my knees were hurting pretty bad last night. I injured my left knee in a fall a little over a year ago, but when I started putting more weight on my right knee because of the injury on my left knee, my right knee began to hurt. I have noticed that the exercises help with the pain. 
I did pretty well yesterday with the sweets available, I ate cheese, carrots and some very yummy fruit...but then I crashed when we went to my in-law's house...I had a doughnut. I guess its not bad to have an occasional sweet...I had cantaloupe for breakfast this morning, I felt like I was eating candy it was so sweet.