Finally a decent number... I'm down 2.8 pounds, which is 1.5% for this week. My totals for the month:
Down 10.2 pounds and 5.27%.
Why is it so dang easy to get discouraged?? Why do I want HUGE results, NOW?? When will it be easy?? I don't know if it ever will. If it were easy - EVERYONE would be thin and healthy - all the time.
Joel had me read the First Presidency message for January (because our home teachers couldn't make it this month and) because he thought it was a great message. It really is. You should read it. It's called Living the Abundant Life by President Monson. He is encouraging us to live an abundant life - a life filled with an abundance of success, goodness and blessings. Then he gives us 3 ways to attain this Abundant Life. The first being 'attitude' - "We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails. For maximum happiness, peace, and contentment, may we choose a positive attitude." The second is 'believe in yourself' - "You can achieve what you believe you can. Trust and believe and have faith." And the third is 'courage' - "Have the determination to make the effort, the single-mindedness to work toward a worthy goal, and the courage not only to face the challenges that inevitably come but also to make a second effort, should such be required. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says, “I’ll try again tomorrow.”"
I think this advice can help us all on this journey - because it is hard. But, I'm counting on it being worth it!!
Monday, January 30, 2012
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Lynette - Week 4
I'm on a break at work, so this will be a very short post, but there was a weigh-in this morning. I'm down three pounds this week. Can you believe we've been at this a month? I'm so proud of all of us.
We had a baby in trouble yesterday at work and I had to run down a long hallway. (The baby was absolutely fine, by the way. Just a worried first-time mom.) It was the first time I've really run or moved fast for months. And I felt it. This getting in shape is going to be a long road for me, but you are all inspiring me with your gym visits and yoga and zumba and running. Thanks! Have a great week!
We had a baby in trouble yesterday at work and I had to run down a long hallway. (The baby was absolutely fine, by the way. Just a worried first-time mom.) It was the first time I've really run or moved fast for months. And I felt it. This getting in shape is going to be a long road for me, but you are all inspiring me with your gym visits and yoga and zumba and running. Thanks! Have a great week!
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Confession #2
This week was a little tougher than the week before and it definitely had its ups and down. I've been working on portion control and trying to make healthier choices. So far, I think I was pretty successful. Still room for improvement, but baby steps, right?
As far as exercise goes, this week was not as good as last week. On the positive side of things, Brittany and I started our zumba class on Tuesday and it was so fun and so hard! By the end of the hour I could barely lift my feet, I had a painful stitch in my side, I was breathing like a wounded rhinoceros, and sweating like it was my job BUT I was still having fun! Other than that, though, I walked/ran only once and I did yoga maybe two times? I'm not really sure. This week has been weird.
Confession time: I had a really rough time yesterday. I just kept looking in the mirror and getting so discouraged with what I saw. I was annoyed with myself for not working harder this past week and frustrated because sometimes it feels pointless to even try. But I weighed myself this morning and I lost ONE AND A HALF pounds. Such a positive change is encouraging. It reminded me that I'm on a long road but if I just put one foot in front of the other, take down one pound at a time, I can someday get to the end of it. So my goal for next week is to exercise more consistently and keep working on eating better, but I also want to come up with something to help me visualize what's at the end of the road. Time to make a vision board? Yup.
As far as exercise goes, this week was not as good as last week. On the positive side of things, Brittany and I started our zumba class on Tuesday and it was so fun and so hard! By the end of the hour I could barely lift my feet, I had a painful stitch in my side, I was breathing like a wounded rhinoceros, and sweating like it was my job BUT I was still having fun! Other than that, though, I walked/ran only once and I did yoga maybe two times? I'm not really sure. This week has been weird.
Confession time: I had a really rough time yesterday. I just kept looking in the mirror and getting so discouraged with what I saw. I was annoyed with myself for not working harder this past week and frustrated because sometimes it feels pointless to even try. But I weighed myself this morning and I lost ONE AND A HALF pounds. Such a positive change is encouraging. It reminded me that I'm on a long road but if I just put one foot in front of the other, take down one pound at a time, I can someday get to the end of it. So my goal for next week is to exercise more consistently and keep working on eating better, but I also want to come up with something to help me visualize what's at the end of the road. Time to make a vision board? Yup.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Fast and easy lunch or dinner!
What you see before you is in my mind, undoubtedly the most delicious tomato soup in the world. So much better than Cambell's. It is organic, low calorie, and absolutely delicious. My mom buys it at Costco. Nutritional information as well as the picture can be found HERE. I kind of LIVE off of it in college. The best part about it is that it is fast. One shake of the carton, and I pour it into a bowl like milk. Two minutes covered in the microwave, and bam. Hot, filling soup. It is amazing.
Lately I've been making it with grill cheese. Kind of. I use a whole wheat pita pocket - it's 90 calories, and I fill it with a couple tablespoons of tomato basil feta. Then I put that sucker in the toaster, open part up, obviously, while I have the soup in the microwave. The sides get all crunchy and the top sort of closes in on itself. The feta gets all soft and sticks together, and it makes for the ultimate dipping tool while your soup cools to the point you can eat it with a spoon. I don't have exact caloric measurements - I do know 1 cup of the soup is 100 calories - but I'm pretty sure it's way good for you. And... definitely way good in your belly. It's a fast, filling, easy meal that won't give you a muffin-top, is the moral of the story. And I'm all about that.
Also. I'm on my third week of running now! No complaints, except that I'm hitting the point where I WANT to go on my rest days... Weird. So weird. I just feel better. So last night, rather than push my shins on a rest day, I opted for a Jillian Michael's DVD. I am now avoiding stairs today... that woman is terrifying. And kicked my butt.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Hi Everyone:
Two reasons for not posting-no dieting, minimal exercise and inability to navigate through this blog. Ugh. I went to Smith's today for low carb yogurt, string cheese and cranberry juice-boring. Of course everyone there knew I had just got done working out because I was wearing my black stretchy pants (not just for fun), NB shoes, thin fashionable headband, sweatshirt tied around my waist and my cheeks were still flushed with color. It felt good:)
I haven't lost a pound, and I'm avoiding a needed doctor's appointment because I don't want to weigh in. Last time I went to the doctor I told her I was concerned about my weight gain, and we talked about age, exercise, diet etc and then it slipped out that I was drinking at least 64 oz of Pepsi a day. She had to control herself not to laugh out loud and she said at that rate you'll continue to gain 1 pound a week. Dam (if I spell it that way it's okay). I've got to lose a few pounds before I go back.
Congratulations to all of you for sticking to it. Even though we're maybe ornery is anyone feeling better? Thanks for the recipes and fun. I might try the enchilada soup tonight.
Two reasons for not posting-no dieting, minimal exercise and inability to navigate through this blog. Ugh. I went to Smith's today for low carb yogurt, string cheese and cranberry juice-boring. Of course everyone there knew I had just got done working out because I was wearing my black stretchy pants (not just for fun), NB shoes, thin fashionable headband, sweatshirt tied around my waist and my cheeks were still flushed with color. It felt good:)
I haven't lost a pound, and I'm avoiding a needed doctor's appointment because I don't want to weigh in. Last time I went to the doctor I told her I was concerned about my weight gain, and we talked about age, exercise, diet etc and then it slipped out that I was drinking at least 64 oz of Pepsi a day. She had to control herself not to laugh out loud and she said at that rate you'll continue to gain 1 pound a week. Dam (if I spell it that way it's okay). I've got to lose a few pounds before I go back.
Congratulations to all of you for sticking to it. Even though we're maybe ornery is anyone feeling better? Thanks for the recipes and fun. I might try the enchilada soup tonight.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Three Weeks In.
Yuck.
I'm down a pound.
Whoopie! (Totally sarcastic.)
The only thing keeping me from downing a giant bag of Cheetos is I read somewhere, probably somewhere inspiring - Like Pinterest, that "It takes 4 weeks for your body to change. It takes 8 weeks for you, yourself to see change. And, it takes 12 weeks for everyone else to see it."
Here's to another ornery week of change.
I'm down a pound.
Whoopie! (Totally sarcastic.)
The only thing keeping me from downing a giant bag of Cheetos is I read somewhere, probably somewhere inspiring - Like Pinterest, that "It takes 4 weeks for your body to change. It takes 8 weeks for you, yourself to see change. And, it takes 12 weeks for everyone else to see it."
Here's to another ornery week of change.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Lasagna Soup...to go with the snow
...not that it has been snowing here. But we've had plenty of wind and TONS of rain, so it's feeling a bit dreary here as well. I thought I would capitalize on the cold weather and post this recipe, brought to you by the Deen Brothers (as in, Paula Deen's sons...PS - did you guys hear that she has diabetes? And has been keeping a secret for the last couple of years? And now is launching a medication/nutrition line marketed toward diabetes? I don't know how I feel about someone helping Americans get fat, refusing to talk about the health consequences of her food choices, and then trying to make the whole thing into another cash cow. Not cool, Paula. Not cool.). The good news - if you have followed this rambling post so far - is that Paula's son, Bobby, is much better at cooking light. Here, he altered his mom's lasagna soup recipe to be only 225 calories per cup. I can get behind that, y'all!
The best part about this soup is that it is easy, fast, and pretty cheap to make. You can find the whole recipe with pictures here, or below:
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 pound Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (32-ounce) container chicken broth
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
4 ounces broken whole-wheat lasagna noodles (about 4 noodles)
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
8 Whole-wheat breadsticks or grissini (optional)
Instructions:
Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large nonstick saucepot or Dutch oven. Add the sausage, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is crumbled and browned, 8 – 10 minutes.
Add the broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, salt, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are blended, about 20 minutes. Add the noodles; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly and the noodles are tender, 10 – 12 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in mozzarella, basil, and the Parmesan. Serve with the breadsticks, if using. (whole-wheat lasagna noodles take a little longer to cook.)
The best part about this soup is that it is easy, fast, and pretty cheap to make. You can find the whole recipe with pictures here, or below:
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 pound Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (32-ounce) container chicken broth
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
4 ounces broken whole-wheat lasagna noodles (about 4 noodles)
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
8 Whole-wheat breadsticks or grissini (optional)
Instructions:
Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large nonstick saucepot or Dutch oven. Add the sausage, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is crumbled and browned, 8 – 10 minutes. Add the broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, salt, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are blended, about 20 minutes. Add the noodles; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly and the noodles are tender, 10 – 12 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in mozzarella, basil, and the Parmesan. Serve with the breadsticks, if using. (whole-wheat lasagna noodles take a little longer to cook.)
Lynette - Week 3
I'm down 2 pounds this week. I'm returning to work tomorrow, so I'm hoping that makes me a little more active and a lot more productive in dropping some pounds. But I learned from the article Cherish sent that it's okay that I've only worked on changing my diet so far. It's best to break habits one at a time. So, thank you, Cherish.
Also, in Relief Society today I figured out my body mass index (bmi), and guess what? I'm obese. I already knew that. But it still wasn't very fun. And then I decided to remind myself that I'm ten pounds less obese than I was three weeks ago. See, I'm really trying to look on the bright side.
Wish me luck tomorrow. I've been off work longer than I had planned. I'm sure all my passwords have expired -- even if I could remember what they were. And I wonder if I remember how to do anything. I hope all the patients behave themselves while I get my feet underneath me again!
Good luck this week!
I'm down 2 pounds this week. I'm returning to work tomorrow, so I'm hoping that makes me a little more active and a lot more productive in dropping some pounds. But I learned from the article Cherish sent that it's okay that I've only worked on changing my diet so far. It's best to break habits one at a time. So, thank you, Cherish.
Also, in Relief Society today I figured out my body mass index (bmi), and guess what? I'm obese. I already knew that. But it still wasn't very fun. And then I decided to remind myself that I'm ten pounds less obese than I was three weeks ago. See, I'm really trying to look on the bright side.
Wish me luck tomorrow. I've been off work longer than I had planned. I'm sure all my passwords have expired -- even if I could remember what they were. And I wonder if I remember how to do anything. I hope all the patients behave themselves while I get my feet underneath me again!
Good luck this week!
Friday, January 20, 2012
Confession #1
I've decided to call my check-ins "confessions" because, let's face it, there is probably always going to be at least one thing I'll need to confess. Just so you know.
So here's the good news: I've been slowing wading into the pool of better health and fitness and my main goal this week was to get more active. And I did! I've walked at least thirty minutes every day (except Monday) and I started doing yoga. It's a baby step, but it's in the right direction.
My goal next week is to focus on a healthier diet. This week has pretty much been the same old same old with regards to my food habits and this is where my first confession comes in: I actually just finished eating a sadly large bowl of ice cream. I am ashamed.
As for my weekly weigh-in, I weigh EXACTLY what I weighed last week. Not good, but not bad. Hopefully next week, with part 2 of my health and fitness plan in action, we'll see some positive change.
I really appreciate your support and helpful ideas. You guys are all doing so great and you make me want to do better! Thanks, girls!
So here's the good news: I've been slowing wading into the pool of better health and fitness and my main goal this week was to get more active. And I did! I've walked at least thirty minutes every day (except Monday) and I started doing yoga. It's a baby step, but it's in the right direction.
My goal next week is to focus on a healthier diet. This week has pretty much been the same old same old with regards to my food habits and this is where my first confession comes in: I actually just finished eating a sadly large bowl of ice cream. I am ashamed.
As for my weekly weigh-in, I weigh EXACTLY what I weighed last week. Not good, but not bad. Hopefully next week, with part 2 of my health and fitness plan in action, we'll see some positive change.
I really appreciate your support and helpful ideas. You guys are all doing so great and you make me want to do better! Thanks, girls!
Sheral's Treat Of The Week
I know you all love cold cereal as much as I do. It's in our genes.
My personal favorite is Reese's Puffs. They're the BOMB!! I haven't purchased any since starting my change (I hate the word diet.) because I don't really think I could resist... and I don't want to know the points!!
While shopping at Wal-Mart this week there was a display of Multi Grain Cheerios. I really like Cheerios, like a lot. I saw a new flavor - PEANUT BUTTER!! I read through the Nutrition Facts and decided I'd get some and PRAY they were low enough points and taste great. (I can guess points pretty close - but, I need to figure it out with my calculator.) I ate them for breakfast the very next day! And, they are a very close match of my first love - Reese's! You can get more of the nutritional information here.
But, for any of you doing Weight Watchers - one serving is only 3 points. If you are doing the Points Plus (the new way) one serving is only 2 points! (And that includes the skim milk.) Totally worth it... totally delicious!! You should go get some today!!
My personal favorite is Reese's Puffs. They're the BOMB!! I haven't purchased any since starting my change (I hate the word diet.) because I don't really think I could resist... and I don't want to know the points!!
While shopping at Wal-Mart this week there was a display of Multi Grain Cheerios. I really like Cheerios, like a lot. I saw a new flavor - PEANUT BUTTER!! I read through the Nutrition Facts and decided I'd get some and PRAY they were low enough points and taste great. (I can guess points pretty close - but, I need to figure it out with my calculator.) I ate them for breakfast the very next day! And, they are a very close match of my first love - Reese's! You can get more of the nutritional information here.
But, for any of you doing Weight Watchers - one serving is only 3 points. If you are doing the Points Plus (the new way) one serving is only 2 points! (And that includes the skim milk.) Totally worth it... totally delicious!! You should go get some today!!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Breaking Bad Habits
Cherish (Shakespeare - for those of you who know who that is) sent this link in a comment about breaking habits. You can read the complete article HERE. But, this is a brief summary of what I take from it.
1. One habit at a time - I sure wish I would have known this in the beginning, because I wouldn't have stopped drinking soda AND go to the gym daily AND start Weight Watchers from the beginning. I could have enjoyed 2 of those for another month and 1 of those for another TWO months! (I would have done the Weight Watchers last - but I think that's what is going to give me the most results. If I could just stick with it!!)
2. "Everyone I know has a big "but"." ( - Pee Wee Herman) We are really so very hard on ourselves. It's hard NOT to be. We see everyone at their best. People talk about their accomplishments. So we internalize 'they're better' and 'I suck because I can't do ________ like ___________'. I'm not sure why we do, maybe it's just human nature. We need to tell ourselves "I can't do 5 freaking push ups BUT - I can walk for miles and miles." or something to that affect - effect?? Whatever. You get the point.
3. Write it down - declare it and make it public. (That is what we are doing on this here blog!!) Yay - we're on the right track.
There are a lot more tidbits of good info - Check it out! Thanks Cherish!
I think we're pretty awesome. While at the gym there was a set of twins who each had lost about 80 pounds and went on Racheal Ray for a makeover. They looked great! Great inspiration for my mediocre workout!! And seriously - that dude that bailed on "The Biggest Loser" - you know the one, on NBC - I cannot believe it! What a wiener! How many people didn't make it because of him and he quits! Crazy!!
Hope you're all having a great week!!
1. One habit at a time - I sure wish I would have known this in the beginning, because I wouldn't have stopped drinking soda AND go to the gym daily AND start Weight Watchers from the beginning. I could have enjoyed 2 of those for another month and 1 of those for another TWO months! (I would have done the Weight Watchers last - but I think that's what is going to give me the most results. If I could just stick with it!!)
2. "Everyone I know has a big "but"." ( - Pee Wee Herman) We are really so very hard on ourselves. It's hard NOT to be. We see everyone at their best. People talk about their accomplishments. So we internalize 'they're better' and 'I suck because I can't do ________ like ___________'. I'm not sure why we do, maybe it's just human nature. We need to tell ourselves "I can't do 5 freaking push ups BUT - I can walk for miles and miles." or something to that affect - effect?? Whatever. You get the point.
3. Write it down - declare it and make it public. (That is what we are doing on this here blog!!) Yay - we're on the right track.
There are a lot more tidbits of good info - Check it out! Thanks Cherish!
I think we're pretty awesome. While at the gym there was a set of twins who each had lost about 80 pounds and went on Racheal Ray for a makeover. They looked great! Great inspiration for my mediocre workout!! And seriously - that dude that bailed on "The Biggest Loser" - you know the one, on NBC - I cannot believe it! What a wiener! How many people didn't make it because of him and he quits! Crazy!!
Hope you're all having a great week!!
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Baby Steps
Hey, ladies!
Just thought I'd pop in to give a little status update on what I've been doing to keep fit thus far.
...
I haven't done much, I'll be honest. :/ I feel totally ashamed after reading all of your guys' posts! You all are awesome. I haven't gone to the gym or been out for a run in 2012, yet. Yikes. I haven't lost any more weight. Double yikes. But instead of getting discouraged, I'm trying to keep positive about it all. Rome wasn't built in a day, right? I think that's what I've tried to keep in mind most while on my quest to get fit--I'm going to slip up! I'm not going to be perfect! But i AM going to keep trying. Just because I had a couple cookies during the day doesn't mean I'm going to eat an entire pizza later that night. I just have to keep trying.
So! With that in mind, I thought I'd highlight a couple good things from my week:
1. I went to Red Robin for my mother-in-law's birthday and I ordered a Veggie Burger with a side of steamed broccoli even though I reeeeeeally wanted those fries.
2. Launa and I are signed up for a Zumba class every Tuesday for the next little bit. I'm excited!
Hopefully next week will be better. Keep up the awesome work everyone!
Just thought I'd pop in to give a little status update on what I've been doing to keep fit thus far.
...
I haven't done much, I'll be honest. :/ I feel totally ashamed after reading all of your guys' posts! You all are awesome. I haven't gone to the gym or been out for a run in 2012, yet. Yikes. I haven't lost any more weight. Double yikes. But instead of getting discouraged, I'm trying to keep positive about it all. Rome wasn't built in a day, right? I think that's what I've tried to keep in mind most while on my quest to get fit--I'm going to slip up! I'm not going to be perfect! But i AM going to keep trying. Just because I had a couple cookies during the day doesn't mean I'm going to eat an entire pizza later that night. I just have to keep trying.
So! With that in mind, I thought I'd highlight a couple good things from my week:
1. I went to Red Robin for my mother-in-law's birthday and I ordered a Veggie Burger with a side of steamed broccoli even though I reeeeeeally wanted those fries.
2. Launa and I are signed up for a Zumba class every Tuesday for the next little bit. I'm excited!
Hopefully next week will be better. Keep up the awesome work everyone!
Monday, January 16, 2012
Two Weeks In.
I really didn't want to weigh in this morning. I just FELT like I wasn't going to lose. I didn't go over my points and I made it to the gym 6 days...
I lost .2 - and there was much rejoicing. (Yea.)
People (Joel) told me not to expect a big loss coming off of last weeks loss - you know, building muscle and stuff.
I'm going to blame it on something else... but it's probably more information than anyone wants. So, I'll write it in my journal and let it go. (PLEASE let me let it go!)
Here's to next week! Cheers!
I lost .2 - and there was much rejoicing. (Yea.)
People (Joel) told me not to expect a big loss coming off of last weeks loss - you know, building muscle and stuff.
I'm going to blame it on something else... but it's probably more information than anyone wants. So, I'll write it in my journal and let it go. (PLEASE let me let it go!)
Here's to next week! Cheers!
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Recipe: Spaghetti Squash with Spinach, Basil, and Feta
In my foolish youth, I was a bit of a spaghetti squash hater. I thought it was "creepy" and refused to eat it at family gatherings. Last year, however, I saw the light when my roommate started buying it like crazy and eating it with tomato sauce over the top. In my grad school mindset, easy meal = automatically appealing, so I started doing the same. I love that you can use spaghetti squash in place of those pesky carbs and that it adds a little sweetness to any dish. If you are ever looking for a quick healthy meal, just roast a spaghetti squash in the microwave, layer it in a sprayed casserole dish with no-fat cottage cheese (mixed with some Parmesan and dried herbs for flavor) and canned spaghetti sauce. Top with low-fat mozzarella and bake on 350F for half an hour until the cheese is crusted. Delicious!
The recipe I am highlighting on the blog is another Pinterest find. This time, it is my mom who requested that I give her the recipe. We made it when I was home over the break and it was a hit. The beans really made it for me!
This recipe is also from www.cookincanuck.com. Can you tell that I totally love her? The full thing is available here, or you can use the recipe below:
Spaghetti Squash with Spinach, Feta & Basil White Beans
Adapted from Six O’Clock Solutions
1 (14 oz.) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 tbsp white wine vinegar (we used balsamic and it was delicious!)
1 (3-pound) spaghetti squash
1 bunch spinach, washed and stems removed, about 6 cups (packed) leaves
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Finely grated Parmesan cheese
In a medium bowl, combine cannellini beans, basil, oregano, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
Using a large, sharp knife, pierce spaghetti squash in several places. Place the squash in a glass baking dish and cook in the microwave on high for about 15 minutes, turning the squash halfway through cooking. Before handling, let the squash stand for 10 minutes. Cut it in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds and fibers. Using a fork, twist out strands of the spaghetti squash flesh and place in a large bowl.
Working in batches, stack the spinach leaves and cut across the leaves into 1/4-inch wide strips.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Add the sliced spinach and cook until the spinach is just wilted, 1 to 2 minutes. Add feta cheese and the cannellini bean mixture. Cook until heated through, 1 to 2 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Add bean and spinach mixture to the spaghetti squash. Gently toss. Place the mixture on a serving platter and serve with finely grated Parmesan cheese.
Makes 4 main course or 8 side dish servings.
I Think I Can
I just have to say that I LOVE how active people are about posting/commenting on this blog. Eric is constantly teasing me that I love starting blogs, but rarely stay with them. Well, this goes to show him! Maybe it's just the fact that I would rather share a blog with awesome Sawyer sisters than a stinky old husband. Anyway...
I just wanted to record for posterity that I have not exercised so far this year (aside from biking to school this week), and I really wasn't feeling it on Saturday morning. You know that point where you have to decide between working out and showering? And you start thinking, ah, well, it's a bit late to work out anyway; I should just get ready for the day? That was me. And then I read Shelby's blog post about feeling better when she exercised. So I got off my fat butt and went on a run around the neighborhood. With the aid of some awesome new running socks (thank you, Brittany and Taylor!), I ran a mile and a half (yes, I know that isn't much) and walked the another mile (I was talking to Shelby on the phone).
Baby steps...I swear half the battle is actually getting myself out the door. Maybe one day I will really love exercising. Until then, I am glad we have this blog.
Birthday Cake!
So, yesterday it was the best mama in the world's birthday - MINE! She is so wonderful and she does so much for me, so I really wanted to surprise her with something she would love. Well, my mom was pretty insistent about me not getting her anything, because I'm a poor college student, but when I found this recipe on Pinterest, I knew I had to surprise her! And the best part is, even though it is sugar-free, gluten-free, and flour-free, it was TOTALLY affordable and didn't have any crazy ingredients.
The recipe blog is copyrighted, so I can't post any of her pictures - they're obviously prettier, but you can see the recipe and her pictures HERE: http://www.healthyindulgences.net/2009/05/healthy-chocolate-cake-with-secret.html
Trust me, you'll want to click that link. DO YOU SEE THAT CAKE?! It looks too good to be true, right? Well, it's absolutely true. When we cut it for my mama's birthday, it was beautiful consistency, and tasted totally NOT sugar free. But it was!
You should try this recipe! It has very few carbs, and is made largely of black beans - although you don't taste them at all - and therefore has lots of protein. I made two and layered them on top of each other, and my roommate from Taiwan could not stop nibbling on the little pieces I trimmed off!
Here are my recommendations:
-If you are going to make this a layer cake, rather than double the recipe, just make the cake twice. I know it will take longer, but I am firmly convinced mine turned out so good because I did it this way? Maybe?
-Follow her advice and let the cake sit overnight, or for at least eight hours. All trace of bean-iness will be completely gone!
-Use the 1/2 cup honey+1 teaspoon of Stevia option in the cake.
-And, finally, I am lazy. And cheap. And didn't want to buy another alternative sweetener besides Stevia to make the frosting listed in the recipe. So... imagine my thrill when I found out Pillsbury makes a Chocolate Fudge, sugar-free frosting!!! I used it, for both the filling between layers and the frosting of the cake. And it was GOOD.
Happy birthday, mama! And to anyone looking for a healthier, just as delicious option. :) Seriously. I promise you. I definitely DO eat sugar, and I would make this again over a regular cake. It is so moist and absolutely DELICIOUS. Just... ignore the fact that it's not all that symmetrical... I shaved off a lot of tiny pieces from the sides to feed my roommate. She was loving this!
Lynette - Week 2
This week I lost 2.5 pounds for 1.3%. I'll take it. I had a few bumps in my road to recovery this week, so I'm happy with anything lost. Shelby made me a sugar-free birthday cake yesterday. I think she's going to post the recipe. She said it was mostly made of black beans. Once, when I was visiting Tori in California, her roommate made black bean brownies and they were . . . interesting. But this cake was really good. Good texture and delicious dark chocolate taste. I appreciated the support. Oh, and it was also gluten free, if that's something anyone needs to consider.
I am really proud of everyone and their efforts to get healthy!
I am really proud of everyone and their efforts to get healthy!
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Bev's Update
Greetings y'all! I just realized I never officially posted my percentage goals. I plan to lose 18% of this cottage cheese/dimply flab. I am happy to say after my weigh-in yesterday, I am down 1 pound. No cause to celebrate, but hey, I lost something!
We have two birthday's in the family this coming week, and you all know what that means - - Another reason to eat what isn't good for us! Why does every social gathering involve food? I did buy a huge quantity of fresh and frozen veggies today, as well as fruit. Maybe that will make up for the cake and ice cream!
You are all so impressive, keep up the good work! I can't wait til I can actually have a good work out!
Happy Birthday Lynette!!!
We have two birthday's in the family this coming week, and you all know what that means - - Another reason to eat what isn't good for us! Why does every social gathering involve food? I did buy a huge quantity of fresh and frozen veggies today, as well as fruit. Maybe that will make up for the cake and ice cream!
You are all so impressive, keep up the good work! I can't wait til I can actually have a good work out!
Happy Birthday Lynette!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SISTER LYNETTE!!!
I am in a weird place right now - I feel like all my priorities are all messed up in my head!! This lifestyle change... nope, not EXACTLY what you're thinking... has me all in a bundle of selfish-selfishness! I kept thinking of the January birthdays, but never did anything about them. So, Here's your card Lynette!
Some of my favorite things about Lynette:
She was the most excited of all my siblings when I was born.
She was a fun big sister - always. She'd let me listen to her Bee Gee's and Commodores Records.
She'd let me try on her dance formals/dresses and cheerleading/dancing outfits.
She is smart.
She is beautiful.
She is a wonderful wife and mother.
She is a great example of hard work and perseverance. I was so proud of her going back to school and getting a nursing degree with 3 little ones at home - I think that's a hard thing to do!
She is funny.
She's a GREAT cook!
She plays a mean game of Pounce - when her tennis elbow doesn't get in the way.
She's a wealth of medical information - I call her first in most situations.
There are plenty more - but I'm heading out to the gym (I think this is going to be a bad week! :( ) and because I'm being totally selfish these days... that's what it comes to!!
I love you, Lynette!!! I am proud to be your sister!!
I hope you have a great birthday!!!!
Some of my favorite things about Lynette:
She was the most excited of all my siblings when I was born.
She was a fun big sister - always. She'd let me listen to her Bee Gee's and Commodores Records.
She'd let me try on her dance formals/dresses and cheerleading/dancing outfits.
She is smart.
She is beautiful.
She is a wonderful wife and mother.
She is a great example of hard work and perseverance. I was so proud of her going back to school and getting a nursing degree with 3 little ones at home - I think that's a hard thing to do!
She is funny.
She's a GREAT cook!
She plays a mean game of Pounce - when her tennis elbow doesn't get in the way.
She's a wealth of medical information - I call her first in most situations.
There are plenty more - but I'm heading out to the gym (I think this is going to be a bad week! :( ) and because I'm being totally selfish these days... that's what it comes to!!
I love you, Lynette!!! I am proud to be your sister!!
I hope you have a great birthday!!!!
Friday, January 13, 2012
Shin splints.
So, pretty much my whole life, I've heard people say they had shin splints and I'm like, good heavens, that's TERRIBLE... because you just know by the tone they're saying it that it is indeed terrible. But in all honesty, I had no idea what they were. Anyway. This Wednesday I found out! And it was weird. My right shin was just twanging with every impact and I was HYPER aware of it, like I shouldn't put weight on it. I finished my run/walk/interval/training thingy, and then Googled the heck out of it.
Apparently, shin splints are classified as pain along or just behind your shins and are the result of extreme impact or pressure activity - like gymnastics. Yeah... I'm not a gymnast. But it's a pretty common running injury - about 10-15 percent of running injuries are shin splints. In the world of all the wild things that can go wrong when running, that's actually a high percentage devoted to one thing!
Anyway. After researching that, I found a great article via Pinterest (oh, Pinterest) about how to prevent shin splints. If you're going to be running on our fitness journey, you should totally read it here: http://www.shape.com/blogs/working-it-out/no-more-shin-splints
Today was my last training interval thingy... "run" (but not really a run yet) of the week. I really, really didn't wanna go. I became a woman today - okay, in sixth grade, but today I was reminded of the fact - and I was feeling large and in charge, and also like someone was setting off fireworks in my uterus. Oh, TMI? Deal with it. :/ Sorry. Basically, does feeling like that doesn't really make me think, "Oh, I want to go hop on a treadmill now." But I went anyway, and I followed all those instructions beforehand to prevent shin spints! Not only do I feel fine, I feel soooo good now. Am I surprised? Majorly.
So I just wanted to say that working out really does make you feel better! Even if your couch and that brownie beg to differ. And. I reached my goal for the week, and followed the first schedule perfectly! That NEVER happens, people. I am hoping I keep this up!
I hope everyone else is kicking trash! First weigh ins, HOLY COW! You guys are so stinking amazing. :) Thanks for inspiring me and being such fabulous examples!
Launa, Checking In!
Hello, beautiful Sawyer women! My name is Launa and I am just about 23 years old. I am the person responsible for getting Brittany hooked on Taco Bell. In all fairness, though, she got me started keeping chips by my bed. Seriously. Gross. What were we thinking?
Ideally, in this six month challenge, I’d like to lose about 25% of my current body weight. I recognize the loftiness of this goal so my main goal is simply to lay the foundation for a healthier life. I’ve been overweight my entire life and, in recent years, my weight has gotten out of control. Weight problems run rampant in my family and so do the health problems that result from being overweight. So I need to fix this problem! I love food and my favorite things to do are read and watch TV/movies. I don’t like to exercise and diets make me super cranky. But I want to change. I want to feel good about myself and worry less about whether my fat rolls are showing. Also, lifelong goal of mine, I want to be able to cross my legs. Whaaaa??!! Yeah, that’s right. I have never—in my entire life—been able to cross my legs. That’s why I sit like a dude. All the time.
I think I want what everyone wants: to be fit, healthy, happy, and confident. I’m not really sure how I’m going to proceed yet. I know I need to seriously up my activity level. I’d like to start doing yoga and running. I’ve gotta start somewhere! As for diet, I’m going to start by watching my caloric intake better, eating smaller portions, and making healthier choices.
Pretty much I’m just going to need a lot of support and a lot of help. I’m kind of helpless. But I have a desire to be better, I just need to develop the discipline, strategies, and habits to succeed. So, Happy New Year and good luck to all of us!
P.S. I’m late to the party and I haven’t really started doing anything yet, but I weighed myself today and I weigh less the last time I weighed myself! Maybe this is a good omen for the challenge? At any rate, it makes me excited to actually get started!
Also, here's a picture to remind you guys who I am and where I'm starting. Yikes. But awesome jammies, right?
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Sheral's Treat Of The Week
I love chocolate. I NEED chocolate. It's hard to find low point (Weight Watchers) chocolate treats.
This is a good one!!
This is a moist, delicious, CHOCOLATE-Y, ONE POINT snack!! It's only 90 calories, 3 grams of fat but it also has FIVE grams of dietary fiber - Making it only ONE POINT!! Woo Hoo!! (According to the points system I used in 2008 - apparently they have revamped their points to a points+ system and I don't know how many points it is on the new program!! Sorry!)
There is a Peanut Butter Brownie too - Joel doesn't like it as much, but I do! Or I'm just not as picky because I have never lived in France/Switzerland don't know any better??
Monday, January 9, 2012
Okay girls, I realize I am a few days behind with my post, but seriously, if you had the news I have, you might hide as well. To get the painful part finished, I didn't lose anything! The week started out great, good workouts, nice self control with the food. Then Wednesday morning I dragged myself out of bed for my morning work-out, kicked a boot that was sticking out enough for my staggering gait to connect with. . . . and you guessed it, broken toe! I limped through the day of work, then taught 6 students and planted it the rest of the evening. I gave myself a pep talk, that I absolutely had to watch every morsel going into my mouth, because I wouldn't be able to do my normal work out for a few days. Well, Wednesday, and part of Thursday I did good, but then we went out of town and visited the kids, which of course meant eating out. Even then I thought I had a handle on it, until Maddox cuisine got in the way, and that darn Aggie ice cream! My sister's-to die for Chocolate Bundt cake finished me off for good! I guess I should be glad I didn't gain anything! So, I am feeling like a slug, but have new resolve this week. I altered my work- out this morning for my stupid toe, and I am determined!
One Week In...
I weighed in this morning and I am shocked to say:
I am down 6.2 pounds for a loss of 3.2%. Woo Hoo!!!
(I'm shocked because Saturday I went out for dinner at The India Palace and loaded up about 18 to 20 points of Saag Paneer, Rice and Naan.)
I am scared that I will lose momentum, get frustrated and give up. You know, when the pounds are harder to get off? Hopefully this accountability will help with that.
I'll check back later!! ;)
I am down 6.2 pounds for a loss of 3.2%. Woo Hoo!!!
(I'm shocked because Saturday I went out for dinner at The India Palace and loaded up about 18 to 20 points of Saag Paneer, Rice and Naan.)
I am scared that I will lose momentum, get frustrated and give up. You know, when the pounds are harder to get off? Hopefully this accountability will help with that.
I'll check back later!! ;)
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Brittany Checking In!
Is it too late to check in to this awesomeness? I know i'm a week late, but better late than never! I'm Brittany and I'm 22 (almost). I've always considered myself athletic; I played competition soccer for years growing up. I stopped playing when I started high school because I was kind of burned out and wanted to try something else. I started some really bad eating habits in high school...my lunch consisted of a mountain dew, a candy bar, and some chips. Every. Day. Gross? Definitely. But I didn't care because I wasn't putting on any weight. I was still just as thin as I'd always been. During my first year of college I tasted my first bite of taco bell. I was hooked. Dinner pretty much consisted of a 69 cent double beef and cheese burrito and a mountain dew. Am I grossing anyone else out? Just me? Oh, okay. Yeah, it was pretty gross. Gross confession #3? I used to keep a bag of Doritos by my bed...just in case. hahaha. oh my gosh. This post is getting out of control. ANYWAY. I got married a couple of years later to my shweetie. He likes fast food, too. We're a grease-lovin'-soda-suckin' match made in heaven. The difference between us? He trains for and competes in triathlons. I....sit on my butt and watch Keeping Up With The Kardashians. (Gross confession #4). My eating habits and lack of motion finally started to catch up to me and I put on about 15 pounds. That doesn't sound like a lot, but when you're 5'3'', it feels like a lot. I started to really hate my body. Nothing anyone said made me feel any better. "You don't look 15 pounds heavier!"...Thanks, but you haven't seen me naked. The lowest moment came when I was required to get my body fat percentage measured for class and i was put in the "fat" category. Literally. The man pinched my arm, tummy, and leg and told me i belonged in the fat category. Why do they even HAVE a fat category?! I was sad. I cried. I started jogging and completed a few 5ks, a 10k, and eventually a half-marathon. I lost a couple of pounds but nothing really changed because I didn't change what I ate. Finally in September of this past year I found this blog written by a girl who had lost a lot of weight and I finally decided to make a change in what I was eating. I lost about 15 pounds by the end of 2011--which brings us to the now.
I've got a few fitness goals this year that I'm looking to complete and I wanted to share my journey to completing them on this blog.
1. Becoming faster. I want to complete a 5k, 10k, and half-marathon faster than I did in 2011. I want to be able to go running with my husband and actually keep up!
2. Eat healthier: kick my addiction to soda and sweets. Basically: eating healthier and not hating it. :/ Oh! And learning to eat oatmeal and not want to throw it back up.
3. Loving my body for the amazing things it can do, not just because it's a certain weight.
That pretty much sums it up. Sorry for the super long, over-explanatory post. I'm excited about this! Yay 2012! Yay team!
I've got a few fitness goals this year that I'm looking to complete and I wanted to share my journey to completing them on this blog.
1. Becoming faster. I want to complete a 5k, 10k, and half-marathon faster than I did in 2011. I want to be able to go running with my husband and actually keep up!
2. Eat healthier: kick my addiction to soda and sweets. Basically: eating healthier and not hating it. :/ Oh! And learning to eat oatmeal and not want to throw it back up.
3. Loving my body for the amazing things it can do, not just because it's a certain weight.
That pretty much sums it up. Sorry for the super long, over-explanatory post. I'm excited about this! Yay 2012! Yay team!
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Chicken Butternut Squash Quinoa Stew
Hearty Chicken Stew with Butternut Squash & Quinoa Recipe
Yield: Serves 6
From the kitchen of Cookin Canuck. www.cookincanuck.com
Ingredients
1 1/2 lb. butternut squash, peeled, seeded & chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
3 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
1/2 tsp kosher salt
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 can (14 oz) petite diced tomatoes
2/3 cup uncooked quinoa
3/4 cup pitted and quartered kalamata olives
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
Instructions
Steam the butternut squash until barely tender, about 10 minutes. Remove half of the squash pieces and set aside.
Steam the remaining squash until very tender, an additional 4 to 6 minutes. Mash this squash with the back of a fork. Set aside.
In a large saucepan set over medium-high heat, bring the chicken broth to a simmer.
Add chicken thighs, cover, and cook until chicken is cooked through, about 15 minutes.
Transfer the chicken thighs to a plate and allow to cool. Pour broth into a medium-sized bowl.
Return the saucepan to the stovetop and lower heat to medium. Add olive oil.
Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is starting to turn brown, 8 to 10 minutes.
Add minced garlic and oregano. Cook, stirring, for 1 additional minute.
To the saucepan, add tomatoes, butternut squash pieces, mashed butternut squash. Stir to combine.
Stir in reserved chicken broth and quinoa. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook until the quinoa turns translucent, about 15 minutes.
Shred the chicken with your fingers or a fork.
Stir the chicken, olives and pepper into the stew and simmer, uncovered, to heat, about 5 minutes.
Stir in parsley and serve.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Starting next Monday.
Welp, this is the training program I'm going to follow. I'm starting next week, so that I can make exercise a part of my new schedule as I start the semester! Also... the fact that it says 27 min jog up there, like my body can do that, frrrreaks. me. out. But it can!
Thank you, Pinterest.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Official Day One.
I weighed myself this morning for the "starting point" - and let me just say this; I have eaten crap (not exaggerating one iota) CRAP for 3 weeks straight and I gained a whopping .8 pounds. I thought I would be all smart and load on a few extra 'easy' to lose early in the competition - not gonna happen. I ate myself sick. Not to mention the infection from all the soda - which I am finished with. I wanted to eat so much that I would puke and never want to eat again. Apparently my stomach can handle crap-load amounts of food at a time. Good to know???
I keep hearing the delicious benefits of the 'green smoothie'. I broke down and made one this morning. It was brown, or maybe olive green. It was so... earthy... that's the only word to describe it. Not refreshing, not amazing, not delicious. I could tell it was good for me. I kept it down. I was pretty surprised. Later today (while I was at the gym) my nursery partner Lindsey brought me ANOTHER green shake. She has been making/consuming them for months. She LOVES them - and even craves them. I asked her Sunday - only yesterday?? Really?? - if she would make her favorite one and write down everything she put in it so I could know what I'm shooting for. Hers was MUCH better. It was green. It wasn't 'woody'. I really liked it. Needless to say, I ate every bit of my fruits and veggies for the day in those 2 shakes. It's a pretty easy way to get them in there. I agree with Shelby - I need to change the way I look at food. Not as a 'treat'. Not as a 'reward'. Food should be looked at as fuel - something my body needs to function properly. Thanks Shel!!
Oh, and Tori - I would love if you posted the recipe for the squash stuff that Brittany ate and got the flu and can't eat it anymore, cause it sounded delicious to me!! (Not the barfing.) Thanks!!
I also decided today that I will probably never be the girl who loves eating healthy foods, I will probably never be the girl who loves working out... but, I hope to be the girl who just eats healthy foods and exercises because it's good for me. I feel tired and sore, but I think it's gotta be that way for this to work!
THE RULES: (now that everyone has signed in, I think)
1. I think everyone who participates and reaches their goals should go on a trip - a fun one. I don't care where/when. Just a fun, frivolous trip.
2. WINNING the Biggest Loser will have to come down to whoever LOSES the most actual weight. Lynette and I are going with percentages, and we have the same goal of 22%. If we both reach our 22% - it will have to be all about the pounds - which I think I have the advantage there, because I'm the biggest. :) Sorry ladies!! LOL!
3. I think it's important for us to check in at least weekly and report our stats... like 3 pounds closer to 155... or 1% loss... etc. I think it will be helpful to all of us.
I keep hearing the delicious benefits of the 'green smoothie'. I broke down and made one this morning. It was brown, or maybe olive green. It was so... earthy... that's the only word to describe it. Not refreshing, not amazing, not delicious. I could tell it was good for me. I kept it down. I was pretty surprised. Later today (while I was at the gym) my nursery partner Lindsey brought me ANOTHER green shake. She has been making/consuming them for months. She LOVES them - and even craves them. I asked her Sunday - only yesterday?? Really?? - if she would make her favorite one and write down everything she put in it so I could know what I'm shooting for. Hers was MUCH better. It was green. It wasn't 'woody'. I really liked it. Needless to say, I ate every bit of my fruits and veggies for the day in those 2 shakes. It's a pretty easy way to get them in there. I agree with Shelby - I need to change the way I look at food. Not as a 'treat'. Not as a 'reward'. Food should be looked at as fuel - something my body needs to function properly. Thanks Shel!!
Oh, and Tori - I would love if you posted the recipe for the squash stuff that Brittany ate and got the flu and can't eat it anymore, cause it sounded delicious to me!! (Not the barfing.) Thanks!!
I also decided today that I will probably never be the girl who loves eating healthy foods, I will probably never be the girl who loves working out... but, I hope to be the girl who just eats healthy foods and exercises because it's good for me. I feel tired and sore, but I think it's gotta be that way for this to work!
THE RULES: (now that everyone has signed in, I think)
1. I think everyone who participates and reaches their goals should go on a trip - a fun one. I don't care where/when. Just a fun, frivolous trip.
2. WINNING the Biggest Loser will have to come down to whoever LOSES the most actual weight. Lynette and I are going with percentages, and we have the same goal of 22%. If we both reach our 22% - it will have to be all about the pounds - which I think I have the advantage there, because I'm the biggest. :) Sorry ladies!! LOL!
3. I think it's important for us to check in at least weekly and report our stats... like 3 pounds closer to 155... or 1% loss... etc. I think it will be helpful to all of us.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Okay, I'm in:(
I'm not sure how this is working but here I go. I've never been too worried about going to the gym and developing a six pack, and I've enjoyed drinking many a six packs of Pepsi that is, but it's past time to practice some good health habits. I related most to Bev's POST about wanting to be under a certain goal weight, exercising and dropping a few bad habits. I'm not going cold turkey on the pop, but I will try and limit myself to (1) 12 oz can a day and 64 oz of water a day to flush it through. I'm going to try and exercise 5 days a week for an hour each day doing cardio and weights. The weight I'd like to get to is 155.
For being involved in sports as much as I have been I've really never developed the discipline of a routine workout or diet. Daily practices don't count; so this is really harder for me than it may seem. Maybe as hard as a toffee making contest:)
Thanks for getting us to do this Sheral and good luck to everyone!
For being involved in sports as much as I have been I've really never developed the discipline of a routine workout or diet. Daily practices don't count; so this is really harder for me than it may seem. Maybe as hard as a toffee making contest:)
Thanks for getting us to do this Sheral and good luck to everyone!
Oh, just saying HEY.
My name is Shelby. I'm 18 years old, and I am a freshman at Utah Valley University. I live with ...crazy roommates, sometimes I feel like I have to try harder at school than the average person to achieve the same results, and I'm tired 85% of the time when I'm doing school. However, none of these reasons excuse the solid fact that good habits take a long time to form, and better nutrition = better quality of life. I also heard somewhere that those who run have better time management skills, and honestly, who couldn't go for that?
I'm not looking to "get skinny" or reach a certain weight. I'd be fine if my weight stayed exactly the same, or went up, due to muscle (eh. Cross your fingers). My goal is to get stronger. I've decided to define stronger as being able to run the Kaysville 4th of July 10k with my sister, Brittany. She's kind of a big deal. I found a really good training outline that I will share in a later post.
I'm not looking to "get skinny" or reach a certain weight. I'd be fine if my weight stayed exactly the same, or went up, due to muscle (eh. Cross your fingers). My goal is to get stronger. I've decided to define stronger as being able to run the Kaysville 4th of July 10k with my sister, Brittany. She's kind of a big deal. I found a really good training outline that I will share in a later post.
Anyway. I know a big part of being able to exercise successfully is the fuel you put into your body - just like a car being able to make it to its destination - so I'm going to really make the effort to make healthy choices in my eating. I'll share good tips as I find them!
Another thing is, I'm really looking forward to pushing myself. I'm really bad at that - at trusting myself, and believing that I truly am capable of things. I want to prove to myself that I can hit a point that feels like the end, and push past it. I can keep going. I want to learn to trust myself more, and I hope this goal will help me to do so!
And most of all, I want to support our amazing family as we start this thing together. Let's hop on this healthy train!
BRING IT ON, GUYS!
The Starting Point
Today I had my official first weigh-in. It's noted. It's recorded. It's horrendous. Actually, it's the same weight as December 1st, so I was pleased that at least it hadn't gotten worse during the holidays. Anyway, I now have my starting point and I am ready to be serious! Woot! Woot!
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