Monday, September 17, 2012
Tracking
I am doing much better keeping within my calories today. Yesterday was a complete bust...I didn't even try to track anything. However, the food ranges within those calories are still way off. But I will get there. I know I will. I think. :-)
Sunday, September 16, 2012
HOLY COW!!!!
No wonder I'm not losing weight!
So, there is this website called My Plate at https://www.supertracker.usda.gov/. I know, some people will have the attitude, "Oh it's the government! I'm not gonna let the government tell ME how to eat. They have an agenda." I say BIG FLIPPIN DEAL!! I'll bet their suggestions are a whole lot healthier than what most people are eating. You enter in your age, height, weight, activity level and it will tell you how many calories, and what type of food and how much you should eat. For instance, I should have 3 cups of dairy daily.
Anyway, they have the best food tracker I have seen on the internet. Most trackers I have come across make it so the user can enter into the database. This is just terrible! Some of the measurements are Imperial, some are US standard, some things just aren't in there (so you have to waste time trying to figure out the website's method of entry), some measurements aren't available. I won't even talk about how the food itself has been listed in the database.
At My Plate you can use measurements in quarter cup increments, by the teaspoon, tablespoon, you can enter whole, pieces, sections, ALL KINDS of choices of measurement. This drove me nuts on the other sites. And the food choices are wonderful. SO MANY CHOICES!! Take corn for instance. Is it canned, no salt or fat? With salt no fat? With salt and margarine? With salt and butter? Fresh? You can create a favorite food list so you don't have to always search the database. And you can create a combo list, for things like tuna sandwich or and entire meal. I usually eat the same stuff when I eat oatmeal, etc. And then, there are the charts and graphs. It keeps track of your nutrients, are you ok, over, under? All kinds of things. You can also create reports. This site is AWESOME!!!
So here we go. My calories should be 1600. Yesterday was my first day of tracking. I wasn't trying to do anything but see how I have been doing, generally. Here is the eye opener. I thought I did ok. 2295 calories!!!!! HOLY FREAKING COW!!!!! And grain was off the chart. No vegetables to speak of.
Best of all, this site is free. Give it a try.
So, there is this website called My Plate at https://www.supertracker.usda.gov/. I know, some people will have the attitude, "Oh it's the government! I'm not gonna let the government tell ME how to eat. They have an agenda." I say BIG FLIPPIN DEAL!! I'll bet their suggestions are a whole lot healthier than what most people are eating. You enter in your age, height, weight, activity level and it will tell you how many calories, and what type of food and how much you should eat. For instance, I should have 3 cups of dairy daily.
Anyway, they have the best food tracker I have seen on the internet. Most trackers I have come across make it so the user can enter into the database. This is just terrible! Some of the measurements are Imperial, some are US standard, some things just aren't in there (so you have to waste time trying to figure out the website's method of entry), some measurements aren't available. I won't even talk about how the food itself has been listed in the database.
At My Plate you can use measurements in quarter cup increments, by the teaspoon, tablespoon, you can enter whole, pieces, sections, ALL KINDS of choices of measurement. This drove me nuts on the other sites. And the food choices are wonderful. SO MANY CHOICES!! Take corn for instance. Is it canned, no salt or fat? With salt no fat? With salt and margarine? With salt and butter? Fresh? You can create a favorite food list so you don't have to always search the database. And you can create a combo list, for things like tuna sandwich or and entire meal. I usually eat the same stuff when I eat oatmeal, etc. And then, there are the charts and graphs. It keeps track of your nutrients, are you ok, over, under? All kinds of things. You can also create reports. This site is AWESOME!!!
So here we go. My calories should be 1600. Yesterday was my first day of tracking. I wasn't trying to do anything but see how I have been doing, generally. Here is the eye opener. I thought I did ok. 2295 calories!!!!! HOLY FREAKING COW!!!!! And grain was off the chart. No vegetables to speak of.
Best of all, this site is free. Give it a try.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Friday, August 24, 2012
Arthritis
202.8
It is cold and damp here today and everything is extra ouchy. I still did my workout, but just about every movement hurt. I am only able to do 2 laps around the parking lot here at work and I am back on the cane.
Let me give you a word of advice. If you have arthritis, and you are at a point in your exercise where you are loosening up and moving along pretty well, DO NOT SLACK OFF. I speak from experience. I WAS at this point, got lazy and backed off. Boy do I regret it. I am having a very tough time trying to get back to at least where I was.
It is cold and damp here today and everything is extra ouchy. I still did my workout, but just about every movement hurt. I am only able to do 2 laps around the parking lot here at work and I am back on the cane.
Let me give you a word of advice. If you have arthritis, and you are at a point in your exercise where you are loosening up and moving along pretty well, DO NOT SLACK OFF. I speak from experience. I WAS at this point, got lazy and backed off. Boy do I regret it. I am having a very tough time trying to get back to at least where I was.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Our Mothers
203
While surfing other blogs, I came across one that talked about her mother and their relationship. At least that part of it that related to diet and weightloss. Boy is that a loaded topic! The comments on this post all ran along the same lines as this post. I had no idea other people had "stuff" when it came to their moms and their bodies. And I am no different. My mom has been almost obsessed with hers and other peoples weight for as long as I can remember. I remember her and my stepdad telling me at 17 (and 105 pounds) I was getting fat. But that is a topic for another time, when I am ready to talk about it.
The point of this post is: the other blog I mentioned and the comments all ran along the lines of the mothers (and some fathers) not taking care of themselves and the moms were all around my age. The health issues mentioned kind of scared me and opened my eyes. I have been just kind of skating along with blinders on for the last few months, making excuses for myself that I was just too busy with my move to L.A. to think about it. Gotta look for work, fill out apps, pack, organize and clean the house, go shopping, on and on and on. I have come up with just about every excuse you can think of.
While surfing other blogs, I came across one that talked about her mother and their relationship. At least that part of it that related to diet and weightloss. Boy is that a loaded topic! The comments on this post all ran along the same lines as this post. I had no idea other people had "stuff" when it came to their moms and their bodies. And I am no different. My mom has been almost obsessed with hers and other peoples weight for as long as I can remember. I remember her and my stepdad telling me at 17 (and 105 pounds) I was getting fat. But that is a topic for another time, when I am ready to talk about it.
The point of this post is: the other blog I mentioned and the comments all ran along the lines of the mothers (and some fathers) not taking care of themselves and the moms were all around my age. The health issues mentioned kind of scared me and opened my eyes. I have been just kind of skating along with blinders on for the last few months, making excuses for myself that I was just too busy with my move to L.A. to think about it. Gotta look for work, fill out apps, pack, organize and clean the house, go shopping, on and on and on. I have come up with just about every excuse you can think of.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Should You or Shouldn't you
201.8
Today is leg workout day and I am still sore from Monday. Very sore. I had always heard, read, etc. to not workout when you are sore. To give your muscles time to recuperate. I did not skip today, I guess like I should have. And you know what? My tushie and legs feel better.
Today is leg workout day and I am still sore from Monday. Very sore. I had always heard, read, etc. to not workout when you are sore. To give your muscles time to recuperate. I did not skip today, I guess like I should have. And you know what? My tushie and legs feel better.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Sore
202.2
Boy oh boy! I am sore! I added an extra set to my routine yesterday and I can sure feel it. I stretched before and afterwards, but it still hurts. That's ok though. At least I know I am making a difference in those areas. It'll only last another day or so anyway. I'll just do a little extra stretching in the meantime. And that feels good anyway. They say that stretching is what helps keep you young. If you are stretched and limber, there is less stiffness and soreness overall. I can attest to that!
Have a good day.
Boy oh boy! I am sore! I added an extra set to my routine yesterday and I can sure feel it. I stretched before and afterwards, but it still hurts. That's ok though. At least I know I am making a difference in those areas. It'll only last another day or so anyway. I'll just do a little extra stretching in the meantime. And that feels good anyway. They say that stretching is what helps keep you young. If you are stretched and limber, there is less stiffness and soreness overall. I can attest to that!
Have a good day.
Monday, August 20, 2012
My Workout
202.4
I do my workout at 4:45am. This morning was just lovely. There are no other words to describe it. I workout on a yoga mat in a little 6 foot long hallway that is an offshoot of the main hallway. There is a door at the end of this little hall, that leads to a bathroom, that has another door leading to my room. All the windows were open, a barely there soft breeze was blowing through the house, it was dark except for a dim, distant light in my room. I could hear my grandson's cricket CD just barely playing. The whole thing was just so peaceful.
What a wonderful way to start the day, and a Monday no less. I hope you have a wonderful, peaceful, successful week.
I do my workout at 4:45am. This morning was just lovely. There are no other words to describe it. I workout on a yoga mat in a little 6 foot long hallway that is an offshoot of the main hallway. There is a door at the end of this little hall, that leads to a bathroom, that has another door leading to my room. All the windows were open, a barely there soft breeze was blowing through the house, it was dark except for a dim, distant light in my room. I could hear my grandson's cricket CD just barely playing. The whole thing was just so peaceful.
What a wonderful way to start the day, and a Monday no less. I hope you have a wonderful, peaceful, successful week.
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Saturday
201
My grandson and I went to the fair today. I had a corndog, coconut cream pie, 2 cups of coffee (it was freezing out) and a BBQ lunch of chicken, beans, cole slaw and a bun. I wanted another piece of pie, but was too full after lunch. I had a lot of fun. They had something called Apple Pie Fries, but I forgot to get some.
My grandson and I went to the fair today. I had a corndog, coconut cream pie, 2 cups of coffee (it was freezing out) and a BBQ lunch of chicken, beans, cole slaw and a bun. I wanted another piece of pie, but was too full after lunch. I had a lot of fun. They had something called Apple Pie Fries, but I forgot to get some.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Fear
So, I was poking around on the blogs earlier this afternoon. I came across one I used to follow, quite some time ago. It seems the owner of this blog has regained a significant amount of weight. YIKES! I am not judging and I did not have time to go back through to find out why. I, myself, have lost and regained significant amounts of weight myself. I was younger then and still of the mindset that I could just re-lose it anytime I wanted. I am older now and it has become very difficult. I was talking earlier in the week of possibly giving up. Now I know I don't want to. I have worked too hard this time around to lose the amount of weight I have, only to regain it again? NO THANKS! Fear will be my motivator.
Stretching
204.4
There is a book I have had for many years. It's called Stretching, by Bob Anderson. It is similar to the one at the left, Getting Back in Shape. I don't know how to use this new Blogger set-up, or I would insert a photo of it (I really, really dislike the new Blogger!!!). Anyway, I highly recommend Stretching.
My favorite one is to sit on the floor or your bed, bring the soles of your feet together, then GENTLY bend forward at your hips. Do not bend at the waist or round your back. Go only so far as is comfortable, with a SLIGHT stretching feeling. Hold for 30 seconds or until you can feel just a bit less tight. Then, move just a bit more forward and hold for 20 seconds. When moving forward, pretend there is a string attached to your chest, pulling you forward. It feels wonderful in your hips and lower back.
There is a book I have had for many years. It's called Stretching, by Bob Anderson. It is similar to the one at the left, Getting Back in Shape. I don't know how to use this new Blogger set-up, or I would insert a photo of it (I really, really dislike the new Blogger!!!). Anyway, I highly recommend Stretching.
My favorite one is to sit on the floor or your bed, bring the soles of your feet together, then GENTLY bend forward at your hips. Do not bend at the waist or round your back. Go only so far as is comfortable, with a SLIGHT stretching feeling. Hold for 30 seconds or until you can feel just a bit less tight. Then, move just a bit more forward and hold for 20 seconds. When moving forward, pretend there is a string attached to your chest, pulling you forward. It feels wonderful in your hips and lower back.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
More Misc.
204.4
Perspective
I have noticed when exercising, that sometimes my perspective is different. Most of the time my attitude is "UUGGGHH! Gotta go exercise!" But sometimes, it is the opposite. It feels good afterwards. Sometimes I am crying through the whole thing because the pain in my joints and connecting tissue is so great. This isn't coming out how I had it figured out in my head. I enjoy taking a hot bath because it makes me feel better. I take my pain pills because it makes me feel better. I LOVE laying down because it feels better. That is how I need to look at exercise, because it feels better. I need to look at exercise with the same anticipation as I do my hot baths or lying down. And occasionally I do. But it needs to be all the time. On Monday, Wednesday, Friday I do leg exercises. On Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday I do arm exercises. On all the days I do 2 planks, 20 seconds each. Or at least, this is the goal. Planks are the hardest things I have ever done. Also, I intersperse a little yoga in there. I highly recommend Cat/Cow for a stiff and achy back. Do it slowly and gently, and don't stretch as far as you can. Just do the slow, easy movements. And then I finish the whole thing off with Downward Dog. It just about always feels so great. I don't know why I dread and put it off. As I said, it does hurt sometimes, but not always.
Sleep
I took the whole Ambien last night. I have been awake since 1:30am. Not working. Going to sleep is not the problem. Staying asleep is.
Perspective
I have noticed when exercising, that sometimes my perspective is different. Most of the time my attitude is "UUGGGHH! Gotta go exercise!" But sometimes, it is the opposite. It feels good afterwards. Sometimes I am crying through the whole thing because the pain in my joints and connecting tissue is so great. This isn't coming out how I had it figured out in my head. I enjoy taking a hot bath because it makes me feel better. I take my pain pills because it makes me feel better. I LOVE laying down because it feels better. That is how I need to look at exercise, because it feels better. I need to look at exercise with the same anticipation as I do my hot baths or lying down. And occasionally I do. But it needs to be all the time. On Monday, Wednesday, Friday I do leg exercises. On Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday I do arm exercises. On all the days I do 2 planks, 20 seconds each. Or at least, this is the goal. Planks are the hardest things I have ever done. Also, I intersperse a little yoga in there. I highly recommend Cat/Cow for a stiff and achy back. Do it slowly and gently, and don't stretch as far as you can. Just do the slow, easy movements. And then I finish the whole thing off with Downward Dog. It just about always feels so great. I don't know why I dread and put it off. As I said, it does hurt sometimes, but not always.
Sleep
I took the whole Ambien last night. I have been awake since 1:30am. Not working. Going to sleep is not the problem. Staying asleep is.
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Misc.
206.8
I have gained some weight. I have been without my blood pressure pills for a few days, that probably has something to do with it. I have them now and the weight will probably start coming back off in a few days. I'm sure it's just water weight.
Sleep
For the past several months, I have been getting only about 5 1/2 to 6 hours of sleep per night. It is starting to wear on me. I have read many times, lack of sleep affects your ability to lose weight. But, not only that, it seriously affects your health. I have a prescription for Ambien, but I have heard some horror stories about the things people do while taking it. My doctor said one of her patients pulled out all of his toenails. YIKES!!! I have had the pills a little over a year and I have taken a few, split. I recently started taking them again, but the half pills are no longer working, I am waking up around 2:30 again. I am so tired. I am taking a whole one tonight. Another problem with this is, I take pain pills for the arthritis in the mornings. About an hour after I take the pain pills (after taking the Ambien the night before) I am so very groggy. But lack of sleep is also painful. It just hurts all over when I don't get enough sleep.
Magic Potion
I wonder if any other people feel like they are just trying to find their own, personal magic potion. I know that it all boils down to calories in vs calories out, but in what combination, how much of each? Why is it when I eat a lot of bad, unhealthy food I lose some weight and when I eat a proper amount of good, healthy food I either stagnate or gain (sometimes)?
Rubber
This weight loss seems to have come to a screeching halt. I have been moving between 202 and 198 for MONTHS. I have become very discouraged. It has become very hard. I thought it was hard before, while everything was new and the weight was coming off. But it was nothing compared to this. I wonder if this is what is meant by, "This is where the rubber hits the road"? Do I just resign myself to the fact that maybe this is as far as I am going to go (and lighten my stress load in the process)? Is that a cop-out, an excuse to quit because it is too hard? I have not had a period since May. Could this be part of the reason I am stuck, hormones? If I do decide to quit, what will happen? Will it be like people that are trying to concieve, that when they stop trying so hard and relax, it happens? Probably not, HA! Just wishful thinking. And by quitting, I don't mean eat and eat and eat (I never did that anyway). I don't really know what quitting would look like. What would I do any different? I don't really know.
I have gained some weight. I have been without my blood pressure pills for a few days, that probably has something to do with it. I have them now and the weight will probably start coming back off in a few days. I'm sure it's just water weight.
Sleep
For the past several months, I have been getting only about 5 1/2 to 6 hours of sleep per night. It is starting to wear on me. I have read many times, lack of sleep affects your ability to lose weight. But, not only that, it seriously affects your health. I have a prescription for Ambien, but I have heard some horror stories about the things people do while taking it. My doctor said one of her patients pulled out all of his toenails. YIKES!!! I have had the pills a little over a year and I have taken a few, split. I recently started taking them again, but the half pills are no longer working, I am waking up around 2:30 again. I am so tired. I am taking a whole one tonight. Another problem with this is, I take pain pills for the arthritis in the mornings. About an hour after I take the pain pills (after taking the Ambien the night before) I am so very groggy. But lack of sleep is also painful. It just hurts all over when I don't get enough sleep.
Magic Potion
I wonder if any other people feel like they are just trying to find their own, personal magic potion. I know that it all boils down to calories in vs calories out, but in what combination, how much of each? Why is it when I eat a lot of bad, unhealthy food I lose some weight and when I eat a proper amount of good, healthy food I either stagnate or gain (sometimes)?
Rubber
This weight loss seems to have come to a screeching halt. I have been moving between 202 and 198 for MONTHS. I have become very discouraged. It has become very hard. I thought it was hard before, while everything was new and the weight was coming off. But it was nothing compared to this. I wonder if this is what is meant by, "This is where the rubber hits the road"? Do I just resign myself to the fact that maybe this is as far as I am going to go (and lighten my stress load in the process)? Is that a cop-out, an excuse to quit because it is too hard? I have not had a period since May. Could this be part of the reason I am stuck, hormones? If I do decide to quit, what will happen? Will it be like people that are trying to concieve, that when they stop trying so hard and relax, it happens? Probably not, HA! Just wishful thinking. And by quitting, I don't mean eat and eat and eat (I never did that anyway). I don't really know what quitting would look like. What would I do any different? I don't really know.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
A Helpful List and Some Other Stuff
Here's a thought. I think I'm gonna TRY to choose my foods from the list below.
Here's something else. For a while there, I was doing pretty good at following a resistance training routine. And then of course I stopped. Just got lazy. I didn't think it was working. I couldn't SEE any results. I thought I was too far gone for it to do any good. Etc, Etc, Etc. Welllll, it was working. The reason I know this is because...after about a month after QUITTING, I could REALLY feel the jiggle in my upper thighs WHEN I walked. Fat in motion is not a pretty thing. And not very comfortable, either. If I could feel it wiggling when I walked, could other people see it wiggling too? HORRORS!! How embarrassing! Soooo, this week I am back at it AGAIN.
Here's something else. For a while there, I was doing pretty good at following a resistance training routine. And then of course I stopped. Just got lazy. I didn't think it was working. I couldn't SEE any results. I thought I was too far gone for it to do any good. Etc, Etc, Etc. Welllll, it was working. The reason I know this is because...after about a month after QUITTING, I could REALLY feel the jiggle in my upper thighs WHEN I walked. Fat in motion is not a pretty thing. And not very comfortable, either. If I could feel it wiggling when I walked, could other people see it wiggling too? HORRORS!! How embarrassing! Soooo, this week I am back at it AGAIN.
Friday, July 27, 2012
Thursday, July 26, 2012
200
Jimmy Dean Sausage breakfast bowl, orange juice, everything bagel.
Cottage cheese, tomato and avocado
I have a co-worker that has asked to walk with me on my breaks. Since I have agreed to do this, I feel obligated to follow through and walk. No slacking. My legs are starting to feel better and am able to walk more. I need to remember not to let this happen again. You have to keep at it. Once you start, you can't stop. If you do, you are pretty much starting over.
Jimmy Dean Sausage breakfast bowl, orange juice, everything bagel.
Cottage cheese, tomato and avocado
I have a co-worker that has asked to walk with me on my breaks. Since I have agreed to do this, I feel obligated to follow through and walk. No slacking. My legs are starting to feel better and am able to walk more. I need to remember not to let this happen again. You have to keep at it. Once you start, you can't stop. If you do, you are pretty much starting over.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Banana Nut Muffin
So, last weekend I flew to L.A. and back. On the way back, I had a layover in San Jose. It was early morning and I was still hungry, having had a sort of avocado sandwich before the flight. I found a pastry place and got a banana nut muffin and a coffee. Oh my goodness!! Both were so very good. I CANNOT STOP THINKING ABOUT THAT MUFFIN!!!
I don't usually eat that sort of thing because of my diabetes. I don't ever even want or crave stuff like that. My cravings are usually salty. Anyhoo, I really want another muffin. I bought some blueberry and some apple cinnamon muffins at Safeway, but I don't want them (my family is eating them). And COSTCO muffins are too big and yucky.
I am not going to be happy until I find another muffin.
I don't usually eat that sort of thing because of my diabetes. I don't ever even want or crave stuff like that. My cravings are usually salty. Anyhoo, I really want another muffin. I bought some blueberry and some apple cinnamon muffins at Safeway, but I don't want them (my family is eating them). And COSTCO muffins are too big and yucky.
I am not going to be happy until I find another muffin.
Friday, July 20, 2012
Odd
It's really odd. I have lost a little over 2 pounds in the last few days. I have eaten pretty badly and a lot. It seems when I go through one of these jags, I lose weight. I really don't understand it.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Pain
My legs are starting to hurt again. I had forgotten that the less I walk, the more I hurt. It hurts to walk, but I have to get back at it. It scares me to think of going back to the way things were. Barely able to walk at all. At one point I was walking 3-4 times around the parking lot at work twice a day, taking 3 flights of stairs 3 times a day and taking the stairs to the 2nd floor several times a day. Now, I barely make it twice around the parking lot once a day. No stairs at all. I guess with arthritis, you MUST keep moving. It's like the blackberry bushes here in Oregon. If you don't control them they will take over everything. You know, that is a good analogy for me. Arthritis is like creeping, painful blackberry brambles. Walking equals pruning.
I don't really have much to say anymore, so I think this blog is going to be more of a diary for me, than anything else.
Breakfast was 3 scrambled eggs, 2 slices of toast with real butter and a glass of milk.
I don't really have much to say anymore, so I think this blog is going to be more of a diary for me, than anything else.
Breakfast was 3 scrambled eggs, 2 slices of toast with real butter and a glass of milk.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Still Here...Barely
I'm not doing great at all. I haven't given up though. Or maybe I have. I hardly ever walk anymore, I am sort of back to my old eating habits (but not gaining, so that's good). I am just tired. The stress coming in from all directions is just unbelievable. I can't even begin to think about healthy eating and all the planning that goes along with it.
Dinner was 3 cheese hot dogs, no bun and a brownie. Breakfast was a Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast bowl, orange juice, banana, and an apple cinnamon muffin. Lunch was cottage cheese, tomato and an everything bagel.
Dinner was 3 cheese hot dogs, no bun and a brownie. Breakfast was a Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast bowl, orange juice, banana, and an apple cinnamon muffin. Lunch was cottage cheese, tomato and an everything bagel.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Airplanes
When I first started this blog, one of the things I wanted to accomplish was being able to fit in an airplane seat. Well, this weekend I did. I flew to L.A. for the weekend. Not only did I NOT need a seat belt extender (I have in the past), but after fastening my seat belt, I had a good 6-7 inches of belt leftover.
Good deal. I'm happy.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
I just cannot get motivated.
You would think losing 50 pounds would be motivating, but it's not. I'm tired. I am tired of the whole thing...what should I eat, what should I not eat, well that didn't work, I'm hungry, I want a burger and fries, that piece of pie looks awesome. I can't exercise today because...my back hurts, no time, I'm tired, did not sleep last night, my knees are killing me, it's too hot, it's too cold.
AAAAARRRGGGHHH!!!!! I AM SO FREAKING FED UP!!!! What the hell was I thinking, letting my body get in this shape?!?!
Eh, whatever.
You would think losing 50 pounds would be motivating, but it's not. I'm tired. I am tired of the whole thing...what should I eat, what should I not eat, well that didn't work, I'm hungry, I want a burger and fries, that piece of pie looks awesome. I can't exercise today because...my back hurts, no time, I'm tired, did not sleep last night, my knees are killing me, it's too hot, it's too cold.
AAAAARRRGGGHHH!!!!! I AM SO FREAKING FED UP!!!! What the hell was I thinking, letting my body get in this shape?!?!
Eh, whatever.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Starting Over, Picking Up Where I Left Off...Not Sure
Well, I haven't put much effort into my weight loss in a long time. I have been maintaining my lost weight, but nothing more. I am sitting here eating candy as I type. I had some candy earlier today too. I have been completely absorbed with my move to Southern California, trying to find a job, worrying about how my son and grandson will do, worrying about how much longer my new relationship can stand the distance (992.7 miles apart), worrying about keeping my current job (I have told them I am looking for work in Cali.), and sooooo much more. I have fallen back on the comfort of my old habits, eating sugar. And I like it. I will probably continue for a while until I can become less stressed. Right now, my favorites are Peanut M&Ms and Chewy Lemon Heads.
I have been thinking though, that I should get back to blogging. It made all the difference in the past, making friends and receiving their support, supporting them to the best of my ability. I have truly missed my friends. I hope everyone is doing well.
I have been thinking though, that I should get back to blogging. It made all the difference in the past, making friends and receiving their support, supporting them to the best of my ability. I have truly missed my friends. I hope everyone is doing well.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Hi
Hi, I haven't been here in a while. I've been frustrated with how things are going, and pre-occupied with trying to move to Southern California, looking for a job there, etc.
I have learned some things about the itching I mentioned in an earlier post. There are at least two issues. First it appears I can't eat things with a high glycemic load, it causes me to itch. It has been an adventure (NOT) trying to find things to eat. The second is a condition called Dermatographism... literally "skin writing". Touch, friction (scratching) or pressure causes red itchy, burning welts. You can use a firm object and write on your skin. A red welt will then appear in the shape you have written, drawn, scratched, pressure from purse straps, plastic grocery bags, etc. Sooo, when I eat foods that cause me to itch, the other one kicks in and more itching occurs. Sigh.
It looks like the things I am left with to eat are, fortunately, good for you. The things I can't eat are not so great for you...refined carbohydrates. Haha, I guess I am being forced to eat healthier.
If anyone reads this, I hope you are doing well and succeeding. I think of you often. Take care.
I have learned some things about the itching I mentioned in an earlier post. There are at least two issues. First it appears I can't eat things with a high glycemic load, it causes me to itch. It has been an adventure (NOT) trying to find things to eat. The second is a condition called Dermatographism... literally "skin writing". Touch, friction (scratching) or pressure causes red itchy, burning welts. You can use a firm object and write on your skin. A red welt will then appear in the shape you have written, drawn, scratched, pressure from purse straps, plastic grocery bags, etc. Sooo, when I eat foods that cause me to itch, the other one kicks in and more itching occurs. Sigh.
It looks like the things I am left with to eat are, fortunately, good for you. The things I can't eat are not so great for you...refined carbohydrates. Haha, I guess I am being forced to eat healthier.
If anyone reads this, I hope you are doing well and succeeding. I think of you often. Take care.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Friday, March 23, 2012
Super Great Website - Check it out!
This is a great website. You just click on the body part or the drop down menu and it will show you a whole lot of exercises for that area. Enjoy!
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
ONDERLAND!!! and Magic Numbers
ONDERLAND! ONDERLAND! ONDERLAND! I have finally reached Onderland today. I did a little happy dance in my bathroom this morning. I was in the 200's for years, I wondered if I would ever leave them. Since I started this blog, I have lost a little over 33 pounds. I had already been trying to lose weight before that and have really lost 50 pounds. My heaviest weight was 248. WOW!! 50 pounds.
And, I have also met one of my Magic Numbers goals...199. That one is for being out of the 200's.
Keep trying, don't give up. I know I wanted to many times. I was as sedentary as can be and I have a desk job. You just have to find little ways to become active. Every little bit helps and it does add up and make a difference. It might not seem like it at first, but it does.
And, I have also met one of my Magic Numbers goals...199. That one is for being out of the 200's.
Keep trying, don't give up. I know I wanted to many times. I was as sedentary as can be and I have a desk job. You just have to find little ways to become active. Every little bit helps and it does add up and make a difference. It might not seem like it at first, but it does.
JUST KEEP TRYING
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Moving Forward
So, I have been stuck between 201 and 205 for some time.
After a year of doing this I believe I pretty much have my shtick down...not being on a "diet", learning proper portions, stopping when I am full and not cleaning my plate, cutting out fast, processed and prepared frozen foods, trying to eat real food like you would find in an old Betty Crocker cookbook, being aware of calories but not counting them, cutting back on sodium, allowing myself to eat whatever I want (allowing is not the same as doing, gives me time to pause and decide do I really want to eat "_____"?) and so, with these changes I have lost 30 pounds (along with added exercise). My newest target of change is complex carbs vs simple carbs.
Now that the items I listed above have become a part of me, habit so to speak, I believe it is also time to start doing some fine tuning. I have come across a pretty helpful book. It is called 400 Calorie Fix. It teaches you how to better judge the calories in your food. The basic premise is to eat 400 calories at each meal, with 3-5 meals per day depending on your gender and activity level. It turns out, my breakfasts and lunches were already coming in at just about 400 calories. They give you LOADS of ideas (which is exactly what I was looking for). The calories in the meal ideas come in at around 380-420. There is a lot of good nutritional advice, teaching about proper nutrient and fiber levels. And you are still not counting calories. They do, however, suggest measuring and weighing your food for a while until you get a better idea of proper portion sizes. Turns out, a lot of people underestimate and end up eating too many calories.
I hope someone finds this post helpful and that you're all having a wonderful weekend!
After a year of doing this I believe I pretty much have my shtick down...not being on a "diet", learning proper portions, stopping when I am full and not cleaning my plate, cutting out fast, processed and prepared frozen foods, trying to eat real food like you would find in an old Betty Crocker cookbook, being aware of calories but not counting them, cutting back on sodium, allowing myself to eat whatever I want (allowing is not the same as doing, gives me time to pause and decide do I really want to eat "_____"?) and so, with these changes I have lost 30 pounds (along with added exercise). My newest target of change is complex carbs vs simple carbs.
I hope someone finds this post helpful and that you're all having a wonderful weekend!
Friday, February 3, 2012
Whining
Is it just me, or does anyone else feel like all they want to do is whine?
This is so hard, it is taking so long, I am tired of these plateaus, my body won't cooperate with me in the exercises and activities I want to do, I am sick to death of thinking about food and exercise, when is my body going to get stronger, I am sick of drinking all this water (enough to sink a battleship). That's all I can think of for now.
I'm not fishing for sympathy, just need to get this stuff off my chest every now and then.
I hope everyone has a great weekend!
This is so hard, it is taking so long, I am tired of these plateaus, my body won't cooperate with me in the exercises and activities I want to do, I am sick to death of thinking about food and exercise, when is my body going to get stronger, I am sick of drinking all this water (enough to sink a battleship). That's all I can think of for now.
I'm not fishing for sympathy, just need to get this stuff off my chest every now and then.
I hope everyone has a great weekend!
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
A Quote
Hi All, I hope everyone is well. I saw the following quote a few minutes ago and thought how appropriate with what I am struggling with right now (tired of the plateau...almost ready to give up).
Don't destroy yesterday's progress today.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Carbs
So, I am a HUGE fan of carbs. The bad ones. More specifically, potatoes, white bread and white rice. Especially potatoes. I have discovered they don't work too well for me, being a diabetic. Thankfully I am not taking medication yet, still able to control it with diet.
I have also discovered, if I have too much, especially around dinner, I wake up itching like crazy. The itching is soooo bad, I don't know where to start scratching first. I have scratches (drawn blood) on my ankles and the tops of my feet. The itching is everywhere though. I experimented last night and had very little carbs and no itching. Heavy, heavy sigh. I LOVE potatoes.
I guess I am going to have to cut back on carbs. I am not sure how this would work for a diabetic since they need to have a consistant amount throughout the day. If anyone has any advice on this, I would sure love to hear from you. Thanks, and have a great week.
I have also discovered, if I have too much, especially around dinner, I wake up itching like crazy. The itching is soooo bad, I don't know where to start scratching first. I have scratches (drawn blood) on my ankles and the tops of my feet. The itching is everywhere though. I experimented last night and had very little carbs and no itching. Heavy, heavy sigh. I LOVE potatoes.
I guess I am going to have to cut back on carbs. I am not sure how this would work for a diabetic since they need to have a consistant amount throughout the day. If anyone has any advice on this, I would sure love to hear from you. Thanks, and have a great week.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Overheard
Haha! I love it! I overheard the following comment at work, about me: "Do you know how much weight she has lost? She has worked hard. She has worked her literal ass off!" That really made my day!
Still not losing. Just found out the other day, I can't blame menopause or my hormone replacement. Boo!
I hope everyone has a great weekend! Stay strong.
Still not losing. Just found out the other day, I can't blame menopause or my hormone replacement. Boo!
I hope everyone has a great weekend! Stay strong.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
New Books
Hello All,
I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend!
In my last post, I mentioned my exercise routines. They are taken from the books shown at left in the column, "Books I'm Reading". I highly recommend all of them. They are a straightforward, common sense approach to exercise. Especially if you don't have access to a gym. You need only a few items - hand weights and an exercise mat like those used in yoga.
The first, Getting in Shape, is the main book I use. It is an excellent book. It teaches you about stretching, aerobics and resistance training. It has 32 workout programs, but my favorite is a basic, progressive workout program. It has five levels, each building on the last. And if you are too out of shape for the basic program, there is even something called, The Program Before the Program, to get you ready for the main one.
The second one, Fresh Start, is the Stanford Medical School Health & Fitness Program. It has a wealth of information on proper nutrition and exercise.
The last one, The Complete Book of Abs for Women, has a several week program that also builds on the previous level and many other routines so that you can customize a program for yourself. There is even and entire section for expectant women. This book is thorough in teaching you about your body and the effects the exercises will have on it.
I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend!
In my last post, I mentioned my exercise routines. They are taken from the books shown at left in the column, "Books I'm Reading". I highly recommend all of them. They are a straightforward, common sense approach to exercise. Especially if you don't have access to a gym. You need only a few items - hand weights and an exercise mat like those used in yoga.
The first, Getting in Shape, is the main book I use. It is an excellent book. It teaches you about stretching, aerobics and resistance training. It has 32 workout programs, but my favorite is a basic, progressive workout program. It has five levels, each building on the last. And if you are too out of shape for the basic program, there is even something called, The Program Before the Program, to get you ready for the main one.
The second one, Fresh Start, is the Stanford Medical School Health & Fitness Program. It has a wealth of information on proper nutrition and exercise.
The last one, The Complete Book of Abs for Women, has a several week program that also builds on the previous level and many other routines so that you can customize a program for yourself. There is even and entire section for expectant women. This book is thorough in teaching you about your body and the effects the exercises will have on it.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Update
Hello All,
Sorry I haven't been around in a while. I have been very discouraged and frustrated. There are only so many times you can say, "I keep losing and gaining the same 3-4 pounds over and over again". My plan all along was to not go on a "diet", but to learn how to eat like a non-overweight (I don't want to say "normal") person...portion control, proper nutrition, etc. while trying to fit in the food requirements of high blood pressure and diabetes. This is turning out to take longer than I expected.
I haven't given up, quit, binged or anything like that. Quite the opposite. I am constantly thinking, tweeking and changing, trying new things. My body is stronger and I have included more exercise into my routine. I am still walking at both my breaks at work, and working my chair aerobics dvd on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. And now I always take the stairs at work to the second floor and 3 times a day I go up to the third floor (have to fit work in somewhere :-) ). I have added a resistance routine Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings and abwork Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings.
I'm still not losing, but my shape is changing. A co-worker told me the other day I looked great and that she hopes she looks as great as me when she looses her weight. That made me feel REALLY good! All my blouses are too large and I have been gradually replacing them. I have gone from a 2X to a large. My pants have gone from US24 to US18.
Well, I have to get some work done. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!
Sorry I haven't been around in a while. I have been very discouraged and frustrated. There are only so many times you can say, "I keep losing and gaining the same 3-4 pounds over and over again". My plan all along was to not go on a "diet", but to learn how to eat like a non-overweight (I don't want to say "normal") person...portion control, proper nutrition, etc. while trying to fit in the food requirements of high blood pressure and diabetes. This is turning out to take longer than I expected.
I haven't given up, quit, binged or anything like that. Quite the opposite. I am constantly thinking, tweeking and changing, trying new things. My body is stronger and I have included more exercise into my routine. I am still walking at both my breaks at work, and working my chair aerobics dvd on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. And now I always take the stairs at work to the second floor and 3 times a day I go up to the third floor (have to fit work in somewhere :-) ). I have added a resistance routine Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings and abwork Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings.
I'm still not losing, but my shape is changing. A co-worker told me the other day I looked great and that she hopes she looks as great as me when she looses her weight. That made me feel REALLY good! All my blouses are too large and I have been gradually replacing them. I have gone from a 2X to a large. My pants have gone from US24 to US18.
Well, I have to get some work done. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)