Out with the old...

The common theme on blogs this weekend is year end reflections and new year resolutions. As I think about what I can share I come up empty.

This past week was a bit emotional for me and I'm afraid if I sit and ponder 2011 I might end up in tears. However, I know that I can not live in regret, only learn from my mistakes and be grateful for the wonderful things that did happen this past year.

A few being...

My husband graduated from dental school in June, finishing eight long years of college.

During our move from one state to another we enjoyed a family vacation like we've never taken before, eating yummy cajun food in New Orleans

and wearing ourselves out with all the adventures to be had at Disney World.

The kids settled into middle school in our new hometown nicely and have done awesome with the move.

This move all the way to the east coast has also afforded us the opportunity to visit my grandparent's home for the first time. That trip including many wonderful moments like learning to shoot a gun.

And since this is my health blog I can't leave out reaching 50 pounds lost last spring...

...and managing to keep it off until now.

I've also put my Garmin to good use since moving here and continuing my exercise in the out of doors versus the gym I used in Oklahoma.

You know now that I really think about it...2011 hasn't been bad at all. There have been mistakes, but I daresay there have been more of those moments that will bless my life for many years to come.

In fact, as I finish up this post and time of pondering...I am reminded God has been so good to me and my family. I will not allow myself to send 2011 on with the baggage of regret. I will instead enjoy the good things and take to heart the lessons learned.

Have a safe and fun New Years Eve!

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Final Update

Today's Weight: 181.5

Loss/Gain: +4 lbs

No, I'm not surprised. Unfortunately my Christmas Day did turn into a Christmas week. I wouldn't have even posted my weight today, because I know the weight is not going to stay on, except that I promised myself to be honest on this blog, whether up or down.

So, there it is. Once again I'm up a good amount during the Christmas break. It's not conducive to weight loss, but I know it's just a break from the norm. Looking over my past posts I've always seen my biggest gains during this week.

I have to admit that I'm not feeling my best. I haven't drank much water, I've not been hungry much at all because I just keep munching and I've eaten too many sweets to where now I'm looking at cookies like "blech."

I'm also not proud to post such a large gain and to have to admit that once again I failed at meeting a weight loss goal (Hot 100 Challenge), but I know that I'm not giving up and I will see a loss next week. In fact, it's the failure of the Hot 100 Challenge that bothers me the most because I do know I'll get back on track with my eating.

I think I need to remind myself to never commit to time sensitive weight loss goals...because I don't make them. Who knows....

Anyway, the weight is posted and there's nothing to be done to change today's results. However, there is a full day ahead of me wherein I can get back with my program. It may happen today, or it may not happen until Monday when our life settles back into a normal routine.

I could go on, but I won't. Please just trust me that it's not over. The new Leah will be back from vacation soon enough.

Goal: Lose 20 pounds

Results: Lost 4

No Weeklong Christmas

Hello! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!! We did. :) Now I am recouping...more from the food than anything else.

Oh my! We've enjoyed special treats like pozole and tamales these past two-and-a-half days and my tummy is like "This is only good a few times a year." Oh and the sweets have been yummy too, but also more than I usually eat and not feeling so great after a few hours. :) Funny how eating healthier will do that to a body.

Saturday someone posted a quote by Bob Harper where he said, "You can enjoy Christmas Day, just don't make it Christmas Week." So, I'm here now having enjoyed a couple days of Christmas treats - both savory and sweet - and doing my best not to let it become Christmas week.

Have a good day!

Merry Christmas!

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." Have a safe and happy holiday everyone!

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #12

Update: I went to the doctor this morning and they had to weigh me...with my jeans and crocs on I weighed in at 178 . 0 . I gave an exclamation of joy at that site and then giggled at myself. :) (A) I'm under 180 at the doctor's too!!! (B) My scale is correct. Gloria!!

Today's Weigh: 177 . 5

Loss/Gain: - 3 lbs.

Merry [early] Christmas to me! :)

I actually had to go back and check last week's weigh in to see if I'd really lost three pounds this week. :) Actually, the scale has been below 180 for a couple days, so I was hoping planning on it being down today.

Funny thing is I have eaten a Christmas goodie every day this week, but I've been selective about what I've eaten; and I've made up for it with healthier choices and smaller portions throughout the rest of the day. I'm also continuing to get in plenty of water and sleep, along with exercise on some days.

And it works. :) Yes, I'm encouraged that something may have broken in my weight loss journey and now I can continue down the scale towards my goal. Finally.

Finally I'm getting it and making it work. Another reason to sing Gloria this Christmas season!

Happy Friday everyone!!

8 . 5 down

11 . 5 to go

Fun Christmas Cheer

My mom emailed this link to me and I just had to share, because it's so fun!

After watching it I also thought it was a good thing to share on a weight loss blog, because I like how it showcases the talents of women of all shapes and sizes. Good for T-Mobile!!!

Winter Break

Well, we have begun the winter break from school here and today I have to brag on my kids for a minute...

I was able to get my exercise done this morning without any fighting or interruptions from them. Yay!

I know it can be difficult to get exercise done when kids are smaller, Dad's at work and you're trying to finish up, but "Susie's got my dolly! " or "The movie's done, MOM!!!" or who knows what. Even older kids, like mine, can have their arguments that require parental intervention and that can wreck a workout. Many moms get up to exercise at wee hours of the morning to avoid this, but I'm not one of them.

So, today I'm grateful that my 13-year-old twin daughters and my 11-year-old son managed to get along and go about their business while Mommy kept to her exercise.

Thank you, guys!

I'm Becoming a Picky Eater

Well, Monday is here and I'm happy to say that I didn't see a huge weekend gain on the scale this morning. As in, I ate dinner late last night and the scale was only up 0 . 5 a pound probably due to eating right before bed. Yay!

This is especially exciting because we had two major eating events since my weigh-in on Friday. Funny thing is I noticed something about my new self during both events.

Short Story:

I've become a picky eater, rating my food and deciding what I will and will not spend my calories on...without even really noticing I'm doing it. (Diane included some of this in her helpful hints blog post last week.)

Long Story:

Friday night was my husband's work Christmas dinner. The meal was a buffet including fried chicken mashed potatoes, sauteed fresh green beans, mashed potatoes and salad. I served myself a plate with a breast, plenty of salad and green beans and about 1/4 cup of mashed potatoes. Just enough potatoes for a taste. (Picky choice #1 - picking more veggies than potatoes!!)

After the meal I decided to enjoy one of the beautifully decorated cupcakes that were part of the centerpiece on our table. The first bite proved to be a letdown. After a second bite of the very dry cupcake I put it on my plate and quietly told my husband, "I'm not going to spend my calories on a dry cupcake." (Picky choice #2 - only eating treats I will really enjoy)

I did go home and enjoy one or two dark chocolate kisses after the party dinner - much more enjoyable than the dried out cupcake. :)

Saturday we went out with some friends to a farm with a wonderful buffet lunch. They serve a limited menu and bring the bowls of food out to the tables. Starters were ham biscuits in a bucket, of which I had a bite or two and then shared with my son and husband. (Picky choice #3 - not indulging on an appetizer when I know more food is coming.)

The meal included fried chicken, mashed potatoes, baked macaroni and cheese, corn, green beans, pork tenderloin and gravy. Again I served myself a breast, and a little of each thing with plenty of green beans. I ate until satisfied and enjoyed every bite. Then I decided to try a piece of their cheesecake for dessert. It was not a baked -In my opinion "real"- cheesecake, but a easy, no-bake cheesecake dessert. Again, I wasn't impressed and ended up eating only 2/3 of the small piece because I was getting full and didn't want to keep eating something I wasn't enjoying. (Picky choice #4 - not continuing to eat something just because I paid for it when it isn't all that great.)

Last, but not least, last night we had a late dinner at a local fast-food joint. Now, I must admit I ate fast food - actually I thought my chicken sandwich was grilled and it was fried...oops. But..the good thing was I served myself some sweet tea (for a treat I thought to myself) but after taking a few sips it was way too sweet for me. After thinking about it, wondering if I should just drink it instead of wasting it, I poured it out and served myself some diet soda instead. (Picky choice #5 - I again decided not to waste calories on something that wasn't sitting right with me..and not feel bad for wasting the food.)

Now, you made read this and think, "Good grief, Leah!! You ate all kinds of greasy foods!!!", but I am seeing much more than that. There is such a change in how I am around food that it gives me hope that I will reach my weight loss goals.

I am no longer eating food until I'm stuffed, nor am I feeling obligated to finish food just because I paid for it or because it's put in front of me. I'm learning to be picky in ways that allow me to enjoy treats and still help me stay on track with my health.

Have a great week everyone! I hope your last minute holiday preparations come together nicely. I'm off to get my house ready for a ladies' only ornament exchange party tonight. Whee!!!

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #11

Today's Weight: 180 . 5

Loss/Gain: - 0 . 5

Seeing as how TOM arrived a few days ago I'm content with this loss. It's a switch from the usual monthly gains I was expecting to interrupt these last few weeks of the Hot 100 challenge.

If it weren't for the Hot 100 challenge I'd be very proud of myself right now for showing a loss during my cycle, maintaining my 4-5 days a week of exercise and for not gaining weight during the holidays. I knew challenging myself to lose 20 pounds in three months was doable, but really out there for me. I know I still have two more weeks to work on losing before the end of the year, but I've pretty much given up on this challenge.

I'm not saying this to allow myself to go hog wild with eating the next two weeks, but to let you know that I have allowed myself to give it up mentally and not live in a fear of rejection for my failure

Yes, I failed meeting the goal of this challenge. Yes, I'm ashamed of myself for that. But I am not going to dwell on it longer than necessary and, most importantly, I am not going to quit working on my weight loss journey.

Two weeks ago Lori commented to me, "Never feel like you can't get to goal. Always keep trying because the alternative is much, much worse." I have kept that in the back of my mind and it is why I will keep going. I didn't meet this challenge, but I have maintained my loss of 50 pounds and for that I'm happy.

So...I will go now. I have a house to clean, a work Christmas dinner to prepare for (where I will be wearing a skirt that is getting baggy on me), a few more presents to wrap while the kids are away at their last day of school before the Winter Break and I have to go keep my chin up.

I leave you with a famous quote from Miracle on 34th Street, "It's silly, it's silly, but I believe." I will lose this weight! :o)

Have a nice weekend everyone!

4 .5 down

15 . 5 to go

Fighting Christmas A.D.D.

I have to admit something....I think I suffer from Christmas attention deficit disorder.

Yep, I find it hard to concentrate on the daily necessities of life when there is so much to be done for the approaching holidays. Oh my!!

During my morning devotions my mind wanders to Christmas party decor, gifts to buy. Then, after I've attempted to reign myself in and finish up my spiritual exercise, I find myself wanting to skip physical exercise and just get on with my day.

I mean, there are presents to wrap, ornaments to make, baking to be done! Right?!?!

Yes, but....

...there is also the need to maintain a healthy life through all the hustle and bustle.

So, to help myself stay focused on life I have adopted some of these practices lately:

1. I take time in my Bible reading to read parts of the Christmas story and really think about what it must've been like back then when our savior was born.
2. I pray for those that may be struggling during this holiday season - either with loss, financial struggles, with a family member away serving in the military, the list goes on.
3. I pray and thank God for the blessings he's bestowed upon my life.
4. I decide to go for my walk and put Christmas music on my iPod or listen to a Christmas story or Christmas themed Old Radio Show.

Did you catch that last one?

I decide.

I make a choice that I will do what needs to be done to stay sane during the holidays. And while it isn't always easy, I remind myself that everything will get done in good time and I'll be a happier wife, mother and friend if I stay focused and keep my daily healthy disciplines in place.

How about you? How do you manage all the ways you're pulled during the holidays? I'd love more ideas. :)

Go Visit Diane :)

Good morning! I've a busy day ahead, so I thought I'd send you over to Diane to check out a giveaway she is doing this week on MizFit's My Trainer Fitness Packs. Click here to read all about it.

This could be a good stocking stuffer if you win!

Happy Monday!

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #10

Today's Weight: 181 . 0

Loss/Gain: - 2 . 0 lbs

While I'm glad to see the scale back down I am in a state of seriousness, because it's not like I haven't lost this two pounds a "million" times before.

In fact, as funny as the email I shared in yesterday's post was ... the truth of the matter is "faith without works is dead" (James 2:17) . I can pray, have prayed, for God to help me change, and I know he has. However, it's entirely up to me to make the right choices every. single. day.

There are just over two weeks until Christmas and I keep thinking, "All I want for Christmas is to be out of the 180's f.o.r.e.v.e.r. !!!" Now I just have to prove that I wanted it badly enough to do what it takes to see it happen.

Oh, and can I just say...it stinks having to worry about weight during December. This is my third December since I started my weight loss journey. In the past I've allowed myself to simply try and maintain through the month. Had I worked harder on my Hot 100 goals in the last two months I might feel better about not working as hard right now; however, it's like I've procrastinated and now that I've fallen behind I have to work while others "play". *sigh*

But...just so you don't think I'm wallowing in a state of holiday depression I will end by letting you know that everything else is going great in my life. I'm ...

• Walking 3 miles at least 4-5 days a week
• Drinking at least 64 oz. of water daily
• Christmas cards are done and going in the mail this weekend
• Most of my shopping is done
• I have party plans that are falling into place
• The bills are paid
• We are all healthy and ...
• I'm even enjoying a nice book with a Christmas theme running through it when I have a few minutes each day.

Now if I can just eat weight loss portions it will be a perfect holiday! :)

Oh, and because I committed to it...for the record:

4 down

16 to go

Have a nice weekend!

Thursday Funny - Prayer for 2012

I received this in my email today and just had to share...too funny!

Dear God,

My prayer for 2012 is for a fat bank account & a thin body.

Please don't mix these up like you did last year.

AMEN!

This and That

Well it's Wednesday and I haven't blogged yet this week. Busy. Busy. :) Here's a little bit of this and that's been going on in my life right now:

• At a baby shower on Monday night I was going through the food line and a new friend of mine informed the lady handing out the corn tortillas that "Leah only wants one! I know.." I laughed because it's true. I'm always asking for a little scoop of the foods and she's catching on. :)
• My son has been a little concerned with his pudgy belly. So we had a quick chat in the car, just he and I, about how (A) he doesn't need to compare himself with the other 6th grade boys (B) the doctor said he was fine at his physical, so he just needs to keep moving in life (C) this is why mommy limits desserts to one each evening and has mentioned that he can have a serving size of snacks crackers, etc. ...which lead to the next thing...
• A day later my son is looking at a box of graham crackers and says, "Mom, they don't have the serving sizes on this box." I pointed it out to him and he said, okay. Yep, he's learning to read the labels and learning that he can be satisfied with ONE serving and not a mountain of crackers. When his sister asked how many grahams she could have yesterday he says, "Two big ones!" I'm so proud of him!
• Yesterday I walked to a Leslie Sansone Christmas 3-Mile walk album and was reminded that I LOVE walking to a beat!! For the past month or so I've been walking to audiobooks, but there is something about a good brisk music beat that makes me happy. I 'm motivated by music.
• Last night while watching the end of The Biggest Loser I had to think...I can't wait 'til I run like that. There's something so appealing to me about running. So, today I did 5 minute walk/jog intervals. Why put off 'til "I'm skinny" when I can at least attempt it today? It felt good!

So, it's been a good week so far! I hope you are having a good week yourselves. I need to shower now and get ready for a mid-morning coffee date with a friend. :)

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #9

Today's Weight: 183 . 0

Loss/Gain: + 2 . 5 lbs

I have only a few things I'll say about this.

1. Yes, I over ate at Thanksgiving, but I haven't as much since I've been back.
2. I seriously am not sure what's going on with my body this week.
3. I'm embarrassed and did not want to post the weight.

I could've understood a maintain better than what my scale has been doing this week. It's weird. I could nit pick and think, "oh, it's this or that", but really it's just weird. One of those weeks where I don't understand what my body is doing.

I'll admit it's also moments like this that I wonder if I'll ever reach my goal. However, the one thing that has kept me going on this journey is that I refuse to give up this time. I'm determined to make it...so I will keep going.

On a happy note...last night my husband and I shared these words:

Me: I love that you love me even though I'm still big.

Husband: Funny you should say that....because...did you used to be a lot bigger?? (and he always loved me the same back then too) *big hug and kiss*

LOVE DAT MAN!

Have a nice weekend, everyone!

A Walk in the Country

On Friday I posted about how I had a major holiday non-scale victory wherein I got up and went for a walk on Thanksgiving morning. Here's a little more on that story....

I was spurred on to consider walking while on vacation when I read a few weeks ago about a virtual 5 K Turkey Trot going on that day. People were going to commit to running (or walking) 5K/3.1 mi. Thanksgiving morning. I knew I was going to be visiting my grandmother and not going to be responsible for the entire Thanksgiving meal, so as I read that post I wondered why I didn't try to commit to walking the Turkey day 5K myself.

I knew why...

Because I knew me and me doesn't get up and walk while on vacation. Me likes to indulge on vacation in every sense of the word - eating treats, lazing about, etc. etc.

Well, apparently that is the old me, because the new me committed to walking on vacation by telling my friend Stephanie I would do it, packing walking clothes and my Garmin and then setting the alarm to get up to walk every morning.

And the new me did it.

It was kind of cold, but I was out for a walk by 7:15 am every day and enjoying the long quiet country roads that make up my grandparents "neighborhood".

Saturday, the 3rd morning, I didn't really want to get up, but I made myself. There was too much bothering me. Like I still needed a photo of the road and my son had told me the night before he'd get up and walk with me in the morning. :) Plus there was the fact that I knew I'd feel better after my morning walk. So, I got up and my son joined me - all bundled and full of chit chat.

While my eating wasn't all that great on our vacation the fact that I made good on my commitment to exercise was HUGE. It was a reminder that change IS possible. It may take a while and we may have so many failures along the way that we think the only option is to quit, but it's not.

It's often said, "baby steps" and it's so true, because eventually those baby steps add up and you find yourself doing things you never thought you could or would - like going for cold morning walks while on vacation. :)

Change in Progress

Update: I think I've got it. :) Now to folding and getting my walk done while the rain has subsided.

I'm in the middle of "decorating" my blog while getting laundry done today, so please bear with me. Hopefully I'll get it together before the day is through...or at least by December 1st.

Vacation is Good

I don't normally post on Sundays because it's my day of rest and I'm enjoying being home between church services and relaxing. However, I've done lots of relaxing the past four days and I had to pop on here to say that I took a walk this afternoon and I'm feeling very renewed and refreshed and ready to keep working on my weight loss - EVEN IF IT IS THE HOLIDAYS. :)

I'll write more tomorrow, but just had to share a bit today. :)

Thankful Friday & NSV

I've got a few minutes to be online and decided to check in and finish up my week of thankfulness by say how grateful I am for friends who have been such a great support and encouragement in my weight loss journey.

My journey to become healthier has turned into something much more than I ever expected. Through the wisdom of friends in blog land and the regular phone calls and texts of a close personal friend I've been able to continue on this journey and not give up on myself.

It's that kind of support that lead me to another step towards my healthier new self....

...I got up and went for a walk Thanksgiving morning. I also went again this morning before we went on an outing with the family.

That's my non-scale victory, because I never thought I'd see the day I'd go for a walk on a holiday. :)

God is good and so are the friends he's blessed my life with.

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #8

Today's Weight: 180 . 5

Loss/Gain: - 1 .5

I'm doing my Hot 100 update early as I will be basically unplugging for the rest of this Thanksgiving week/holiday weekend.

Today I'm thankful for my health and for not giving up on my health. I'm thankful that somewhere deep inside of me is a spark that makes me continue fighting to win this weight battle, even if it takes a lifetime.

5 . 5 down

14 . 5 to go

Have a great Thanksgiving everyone!!

Thankful Tuesday

Today as I was praying I really thought about my family and how blessed I am by all the familial links in my life. So, in no particular order, I'm thankful for:

• My husband for his faithfulness to me in marriage, to provide for our family and for being a part of our children's lives. Even when his job or college left him with little extra time he has always made time to play with the kids or listen to me talk.
• My children who each are turning into their own people. There's my kind-hearted artist girl, my crafty helper-leader girl and a boy with a great imagination. While each day has it's ups and downs there are plenty of good times where these kids bring us great joy.
• My parents and brother (my only sibling) who are still in touch with each other though we are in three different states. It's a blessing to be a part of a family that loves each other and has not let differences break us apart. To God be the glory!
• My sister-in-law, who opened her heart to us from the day she got serious with my brother, and who has been quite the trooper and stood by him through a bout with cancer last year. She's one tough cookie and I know God brought her into our lives for a reason.
• My in-laws on my husband's side. I don't think a blonde, blue-eyed girl was who they imagined their Mexican son/brother marrying some day, but I never would've known it by how they acted. From day one they were polite and caring and have loved me for who I am over these 16 years of marriage. My mother-in-law has also been very willing to teach me to make mexican food and share her tips, instead of harboring them as her own special treats to make when she's visiting.

And last, but most certainly not least...

• I'm so thankful for my salvation. The fact that Jesus would give his life for me, a sinner who is so full of mistakes, amazes me. That He would go even further to bless my life with the above is an added bonus. I don't regret one moment I have lived as a Christian, and will never tire of thanking Him for not giving up on me.

Thankful Monday

I woke up today feeling much better than I did a week ago. So, as I was setting out for my walk (and so very grateful to be walking again) I decided I would do a week of posts of things I'm thankful for.

Yes, I know, it's not an uncommon theme with this week being the week of our Thanksgiving Day holiday, but I also know that it's common to sit and feel sorry for ourselves when we really have so much to be thankful for. Case in point, I told my pastor about a positive development in my life last night and his reply was, "Oh good! It's good to hear the positive stuff going on too!"

Yep, it's definitely easier to let out the negative stuff and not remember to come back and share the good going on. So, here's some good things I'm grateful for today:

• My cold is going away and I am not having coughing fits any more.
• PMS is over and for another month the hormonal roller coaster has settled back into normalcy. :)
• No one in my family caught my cold.
• My children get up and get ready for school without complaining.
• My husband was willing to sit and talk with me alone for two hours Friday night about life; where we've been, where we're going and he was patient with me when I shared some struggles and thoughts.

I'll stop at that for today. What are you thankful for? I'd love to hear!

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #7

Today's Weight: 182 . 0

Loss/Gain: +1 . 0

It figures. I've been sick this week and then TOM arrived two days ago. So, only one light walk has happened while both the sicky and munchy monsters have been visiting my house/life.

I'm feeling better in my head and now just praying for the coughing to stop. My hope is next week will be so much better than this.

It's weeks like this that make me realize how much I have to be grateful for. I only get sick like this about once or twice a year, same for my family, but I know there are people dealing with sickness year round.

So, while I'm vexed that this less hectic week turned into a sicky, snacky week I am also grateful for general good health. My cold will pass, so will my monthly, and I will be back to normal soon enough. It's a lifelong journey and I can't think this one week will ruin everything.

For the record...

4 down

16 to go

Have a good weekend everyone!

A Little Fuzzy

First off, thank you for the well wishes!

I'm still feeling a little fuzzy in the head, but better than the last two days. Since I felt a little better I went for a walk this morning. I kept it slow and short.

I'm keeping hydrated and drugged to help clear congestion and break up mucous. I hate coughing and am doing my best to keep this cold from getting any worse. So, no big plans...just trying to get better. :)

Rest & Fluids

I've felt like this most of today...

Friday my throat was sore and it has progressed until today is the worst I've felt so far. I thought rest over the weekend would help, and maybe it did, but I've been wishing I could sleep all day today.

Itchy eyes, sore throat, runny nose...basic cold symptoms. So it's rest and fluids for me (though I keep snacking too...darn it. That's stopping tonight.)

I am grateful for one thing...I'm feeling crappy the week between our conference and the week of Thanksgiving. I don't have too much extra going on this week, so I can sneak in naps and hopefully get over this cold quickly.

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #6

Friday's Weight: 181 . 0

Loss/Gain: - 1 . 0 lb

I'm very pleased with this loss and here's why.

Short Story:
I've had a week that was crazy busy from sun up to sun down. I've literally had about 30 minutes a day to sit and just relax. While this schedule did not allow for any formal exercise it did end up being one of my best eating weeks ever full of all kinds of non-scale victories.

Long Story:
If you look at my Daily Mile widget you'll see my last workout was a week ago and this is true. My busy week started with laundry and house cleaning on Saturday to prepare for company coming for a week long stay on Monday.

Then this past week was a Bible Conference at our church wherein I helped in the kitchen preparing, serving and cleaning up refreshments for a break in the morning seminars. After that I would go home pick up the house, shower, get kids from school, iron clothes for evening services, direct the flow of showers and getting ready for those services and then we'd be out the door for evening services.

Somewhere in between that I made time to work on two poster projects for our church, have lunch with my husband one day and our guests another and check my emails. :)

It was crazy.

At the same time it was the kind of crazy that only happens a few times a year and is wonderful to be a part of. Especially when I've had successes, otherwise known as non-scale victories, in my eating like this:

• Our refreshments for the break were juice, coffee, fruit and donuts. I only had 1/2 a donut on the last morning. I took my 32 oz. water bottle and drank that every morning and brought my own snacks consisting of fruit and cheese sticks or a yogurt.

• When I went to Olive Garden for lunch one day I did not eat any breadsticks - for the 1st time in my life!!! I only had two servings of salad and one bowl of pasta fagioli soup.
  When my friends ordered seconds of soup I kind of wanted to, but realized it was only for one of two reasons (1) peer pressure "they are, so why not" and (2) "I don't want to make them feel bad. They are larger than me and might feel bad for eating more when I'm not." The latter thought was due to one of them confiding in me she is working on losing weight. But then I realized this is about MY journey and I needed to do what was best for me. I was satisfied and needed to stop. And I did. (HUGE victory for me!!!)

• I went to lunch with my husband some delicious meditteranean food and again only ate until satisfied.

In fact, this whole week I can honestly say that I ate only until satisfied every. single. day. I actually had to eat dinner at 9:30 the night before my weigh-in, so I know the scale was up a little due to that, because I have hovered between 180 - 181 all week.

Oh, I also have to add that I was able to wear a blouse this week that hasn't fit me since I bought it a year ago, and an Indian outfit I wore a year-and-a-half ago has gotten big on me and I was able to pinch the sides in an inch on either side of the top to show a friend how loose it was.

When I showed my friend that she replied, "I've been meaning to tell you that whatever you are doing is working...you're losing weight and I can tell!!"

So, while my weigh-in shows only a pound loss for the last two weeks I have to say the victories in my life with regards to weight and eating have been worth much, much more than that.

It's why I'm proud to say for the record...

5 pounds down

15 to go

Have a great weekend and I will check back in next week!

Veterans Day

I will be posting my weight update tomorrow. Today I'd like to simply say thank you to our veterans.

Card design and poetry is my own work.

All pieces of art used in the creation of this card are from "DigiDiva" at Gotta Pixel.

Buffet NSV x 2

Hello! I have a very busy week ahead, but wanted to pop in to share a wonderful non-scale victory involving a buffet dinner.

The other day we went to Golden Corral for dinner to break a time of fasting. Haven not eaten in a long time left me very hungry, but I told myself I didn't want to overeat and be stuffed to the point of sickness...easily done when breaking a fast.

And I didn't.

I enjoyed a full meal and was full, but I was not stuffed. I didn't feel sick, or have any regrets that I ate too much.

On top of that, I did not eat anything else the rest of the evening.

I knew I would be full until bedtime and told myself I needed to try and not snack just because I was eating again. At one point I started to reach for a Reese's PB Cup (my FAVORITE), but I stopped in in my mind reminded myself that I had dessert at Golden Corral and I didn't need more.

THIS IS HUGE FOR ME!!!

So, I start the week off with that bright thought. I'm also glad to report that while the scale isn't down at that "fun" number I saw Friday morning after fasting, it is lower than my last weigh-in.

Hip, hip, hooray! Here's to a great week and breakthroughs in overeating!!

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #5

Today's Weight: -----

Loss/Gain: ----

Sorry for the delay in a Friday weigh-in post today, but it's been a busy day. Also, I have slightly different post today. I will not be posting my weight today.

Yesterday I joined with some others in a personal 24-hour time of fasting. I didn't have a say so in the scheduling so doing it a day before weigh-in was out of my control. It sure did mess with the scale. :) In a fun-to-see-something-so-low way, but not in an honest-weight-for-the-week way.

So, I've decided not to post my weight today. It should even back out by next week and maybe I'll even see something close to that number by then...for real. :)

Unfortunately this also messes with my Hot 100 update, but you'll have to bear with me for now. :)

Have a great weekend!

A Ban

I think I'm going to have to ban myself...from candy. argh. *shaking head* I haven't eaten as much candy as the old Leah would've, but I've eaten more than a Hot 100 girl should be.

The week's not over and I'm not letting it ruin my days, but I had to be honest with everyone. Today I've only had three bites of pumpkin cake, so that's good.

Time to go finish up a few things this afternoon before I start dinner. I hope you're all doing good during this candy-infested week.

Is It The Jeans?

So, Saturday night I was at a church function in some jeans, a "stylish" t-shirt and cute cardigan from Target with some decorative trim. Towards the end of the evening a girl started gushing about how good I was looking. She was so sweet and asked if I've lost weight since I moved here.

"Well, let me tell you....." I said...

Just kidding.

I told her I've only lost a few pound since moving here, but I've lost 49 pounds over the last 2 - 2 . 5 years.

One girl said she would like to see a before picture because she couldn't imagine me at 231 pounds. The rest ooh'd and ah'd and I felt great.

What felt even better was knowing that I'm really learning to get control over my eating, finding my niche in exercise and the result is seeing the scale move downwards again.

I can't imagine the 3.5 pound loss I saw last week made a big difference... so it must've been my new cutie jeans from Kohls... LOL

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #4

Today's weight: 182 . 0

Loss/Gain: - 3 . 5 lbs

I haven't seen this number on the scale since before we moved, so I'm just a little excited about it. :)

This week has been a trial of sorts for me. As I mentioned earlier in the week I've changed my workouts to walking instead of more intense workouts at the gym - spin class/elliptical etc. I know I am capable of doing more intense exercise, but it seems to mess with me with regards to my body retaining water, gaining muscle and so not seeing weight loss and I think I'm even a little more hungry due to the exertion.

Don't get me wrong, I know I feel great when I workout hard and see the toning in my body. I also know plenty of people lose weight while doing more intense exercise, but I want to see that scale go down and it's been vexing that it hasn't moved. So, I decided to cut back a little on the intensity of exercise and focus more on my food.

One week of good loss isn't proof that doing this is necessarily better, but for now it's good for me. I'm telling you...my stress level has been way down since I'm not worried about water retention and whether or not to take step class on Thursday because I'll retain water and the scale won't be down on Friday, yada yada. And I think I'm noticing that it's a little easier to not overeat because I'm not as hungry throughout the day.

This is definitely a trial period for me and if I can see weight loss while sticking with walking, then that's what I'll continue to do. I think I might add something for my upper body strength, like some toning with hand weights and maybe planks for core strength.

I also still want to run someday and do definitely see myself getting more into that, but I'm thinking it might be better to work on being a runner after I've lost a little more weight. We'll see ...

In the meantime, I've had a great week, possibly the best week in my healthiness journey since we moved, and I happily share with you my Hot 100 Update for this week:

4 . 5 down

15 . 5 to go

Have a great weekend and please be safe if you're taking part in Halloween activities this weekend!

Check Our Her Homemade Chicken Broth

I grew up in a home where whole chickens were cooked often for their meat. I'm pretty sure it's because it was cheaper. It also gives a great smell to the house, and so I love to cook a whole chicken once in a while for that very reason.

I bring that up because today Diane over at Fit to the Finish shared how she makes homemade chicken broth. Click here to read it and try it yourself sometime. You won't regret it and your family will love the way the house smells!!

Note: My only addition is to add some onions and celery to the pot while simmering. Yum!!

I'm Walking

Someone asked at the close of a post earlier this week, "What will you do to be good to yourself this week?" My instant reply was I will do what is best for me on my weight loss journey and not worry about pleasing others with how I exercise.

I say that because of late I've been walking daily for exercise. I feel that I need to focus on the eating and not stressing so much about pushing myself with regards to exercise.

I'm loving this, especially with regards to the time saved in travel to and from the gym (20 mins minimum each way). Yes, I know I am capable of more, so if time allows I'll take a class here and there. I also want to continue in my running aspirations, so I will run when I feel like it. My tentative long term plan is to definitely get back into running as my weight lowers.

In the meantime, we are having some absolutely beautiful fall weather and I'm loving my beautiful morning walks. Have a great day!

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #3

Today's Weight: 185 . 5

Loss/Gain: 0

Yes, zero, zip, zilch.

Considering that a week ago I wanted to quit this weight loss thing entirely, was sick of being a person who has to consider what she eats and how much she exercises and was basically only hanging on by a thread of desire somewhere deep within to press forward no matter what...I'm okay with this maintain.

It doesn't help my Hot 100 Challenge, except that I'm not back where I started. But I've really been working through some non-weight related issues lately and it stresses me out at times. I can see how it is affecting my weight loss journey and I'm working things out.

In the meantime, I'm plugging on ahead. I keep posting my exercise as I complete it and I've begun using My Fitness Pal online to track my food since I managed to kill my iPod touch earlier this week (yea, I'll have to journal about that later...it's funny in a small way...) .

Just please know I haven't given up. TOM has come and I think PMS is tapering off now because I'm eating better and not feeling quite as snacky as earlier in the week/end of last week.

In the meantime, for the record...

1 . 0 pound down

19 . 0 pounds to go

In My Spare Time

Just in case you ever wonder what I do when I'm not being a wife, mother, blogger, exerciser...

Here's a few things I like to do in my spare time:

• Make felt ornament crafts - usually around the holidays. I made this pumpkin one for a friend of mine that does not live in the south. I've seen that phrase and thought it'd be a cute "touch of the south" gift for her. All done by hand.

• Try new recipes. Like Lori's pumpkin custard oats, which were delicious..though I had to add more splenda to sweeten it up for me.

• Create digital scrapped creations like this cutie owl card I made today for fun...and because I have recently purchased two adorable owls for my house and was in the mood to be creative.

• Oh, and shop, of course, especially when I have gift cards from my birthday (in July) like the one I was able to use today at Pier 1 to buy this adorable little owl. We've named her "Miss Picket" since her apron (I'm also in love with aprons) looks a little like a picket fence

So, that's my interesting post for today, which means things are going pretty good and I've nothing else to report. I'm exercising, eating better and hoping for good things to continue on the scale.

Until tomorrow...

I Caught Myself

Today I had a physical exam. As the nurse was doing the pre-exam routine she asked me to step on the scale. I removed my shoes, stepped up there and automatically began to say....

"You can move the big one to the 200."

I no sooner thought this, and began to say it, when I caught myself. I don't weigh 200 anything and I haven't in over a year.

Isn't that interesting? My instinct was to think I was large, but then I realized I'm not that big anymore.

It was a very small, yet great big wonderful feeling. Somehow I felt thin, or thinner at least. Because I wasn't even close to 200.

Even better was seeing that my weight at the doctor's office in the middle of the afternoon was a clean 186 . 0 lbs. I seriously expected it to be a lot more than my home scale and it wasn't at all. whew!

Anyway, I thought that was an interesting reaction to the scale after all this time. G'nite!

My Favorite Breast Cancer Survivor

Most of you know October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In times past I've donated to co-workers doing the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, or clicked on a blog button like Lori has to support free mammograms, but otherwise I've never given it much thought.

Until last year.

Last year my mother went through her own fight with breast cancer and I was suddenly faced with the realities of what a diagnosis like that can do to a person and family.

Thankfully, my mother is now a breast cancer survivor and still with us today. I've asked her to share a few words with you about her story. I'm very proud of how she fought and thankful to the Lord that she made it through safe and sound.

How to start? I must start out expressing my gratefulness to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for His love and faithfulness to keep His promises.

I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in April of 2010. This came as quite a shock as it must have to many others with the same diagnosis. I had some pain in my breast since Sept. of '09. The pain had gone away and there no lump that I could find. But, I did have a "dimple" on the bottom left side.

I had never heard of a dimple being a sign of cancer. I pretty much ignored it until it was time for me to go for a physical and my doctor saw the dimple and ordered a mammogram. What had hindered me from going in sooner was the lack of insurance and my husband had lost his job in '08 and was now working 30 hrs. a week at less than half his former wages. I had applied to a local place who provide help to low income but this was a long time coming. I finally got help with Medicaid a month or so before I was diagnosed.

By May 20th I was in surgery having a mastectomy on one side. Chemo started on June 21 and radiation on Nov. 30. Wow! What a wild ride. I had so many family and friends in support of me during this time it blew me away. Every person I ran into during all the doctor visits, chemo, nurses, receptionists and such were the kindest people at all times. I believe God put them there for me. Since I had so much down time I thought I would take this time to read the Bible more and pray. God was there for me as He is for all. I know that Jesus was there for me through all the fear, sadness and the "poor me's". He has been my Rock and Strength.

My husband was everything I'd hope he would be during a crisis! He picked up all the slack while keeping up at his job. He cooked, cleaned and bought the groceries. We were able to schedule most of the doctor visits so he could be there with me. We have been married 37 years and our marriage has been tested in all the vows now!

On Feb. 1, 2011 I was announced as "Cancer Free!" I give God all the praise and glory for I know His hand guided us all through this trial of life.

Don't be afraid of cancer. Trust in Jesus and He will be there for you. In the end, we win!

Kathy Garfield, October 8, 2011

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #2

Today's Weight: 185 . 5

Loss/Gain: + 1 . 5

All I can say is that letting myself go for an evening and one day was not conducive to staying on track the rest of the week. *sigh* Last Friday night I went out for a girls night and ate too much dessert. Then Saturday we went to a local pizza parlor to watch the OU vs TX game (Boomer Sooner!!) and though my husband shared some antipasto salad with me I also ate pizza, and crusts, and more crusts and more pizza.

Unfortunately, I planned thought I would get back on track the next day and chalk it up to one calorie-heavy 24 hours, but that didn't happen.

Jodie asked earlier this week why we fail after success and I told her for me it's over confidence in my abilities to stick with my plan. I should add that I think I have weight loss ADD - I don't stay focused for long periods of time.

This is why I put myself in this challenge for the end of the year...to make myself stay focused for more than a day on my weight loss. I've now had one good week and one bad week...time to realize I really have to focus every meal. every day.

Lori also mentioned that losing the weight is only 1/4 of the battle - Oh my!! I'm in so much trouble if that's the case... Just kidding, Lori...kind of. I think for me, it will be half, because I'm seeing what it requires to lose the weight and keeping it off will require continuing the healthy lifestyle. I seem to be able to maintain just fine this year though. *sigh*

I did exercise 3 days and am on my way to the gym this morning for the 4th this week, all 50-60 minutes of cardio, so that is good.

But needless to say, my challenge update isn't positive this week:

1 pound down

19 pounds to go

11 weeks left...argh...

No posting because...

...well I realized later today why I haven't blogged about anything since Tuesday (like it's really been that long, huh - LOL) and it's because....

I've been working on designing our Christmas card. I love to do digital scrapbooking and realized I needed to get our card together.

I'd love to show you what I've come up with, because my 4th design (after making 5) is the one I think we've decided on....BUT...you'll have to wait until Christmastime. :) It's nothing hugely spectacular, but I like it a lot and I'm excited!

Now I am going to go work on a shadow box/board for a wedding at our church this Sunday. It's to welcome the guests and such - this is paper scrapping style. Whee!!

Nothin New

I'm alive, but there's really nothing new to report. :)

Trouble Commenting?

Does anyone have trouble commenting on my blog? I guess I might not know if you can't....I just can't seem to reply to comments on my own blog and am curious how to fix it. Any ideas?

Today is going fine. I had major hair drama (highlights that looked more like bad bleach job ALL OVER) , but the nice people at Ulta fixed it at no charge (by adding in nice low lights) and so I'm very pleased with that. Now I can go on with my day in peace.... Thank you, Ulta!!

Oh, and spin class kicked my butt again today. Shortly after starting class I thought, "WHY DO I DO THIS?????" It's hard. I do my best, and saw it already being better than the first class, and just plug my way through it. She changes things up enough that the time does eventually pass. It's definitely the hardest thing I do in the week of workouts.

Anyway...back to my original question. If you have any ideas how to fix the commenting situation I'd appreciate it. I've had a friend tell me she can't comment on my blog either, so it's not just me.

Thanks!!

Big Weekend

As I told my friend yesterday in a text....

If I had Twitter I'd have to tweet "Too much food this weekend. Time to get back on track tomorrow!!"

How to know you've eaten too much:

• Rarely felt hungry all weekend, after I started with salad and pizza for lunch on Saturday.
• Didn't track food at all. Naughty. Naughty.
• And finally this morning I wasn't even hungry for breakfast.

I had to make myself eat a Zone bar for breakfast just to make sure I ate something before working out, but I really didn't feel hungry until after the workout.

However, today has been good so far, so yay for that! :)

Weigh-In ... Hot 100 Update #1

Today's Weight: 184 . 0

Loss/Gain: - 2 . 5 lbs.

Hot 100 Challenge Update:

2 .5 lbs down ...... 17 . 5 to go :)

Okay...insert *sheepish grin* here. I guess the scale evened out after all.

Though I have to say that my cynical mind, and a bit of seeing how my body works, thinks that it would've been up a little had I done the step class yesterday instead of a good, long walk. I still think this is due to the muscles retaining water when I do heavier exercise.

But...I am very happy with this loss. It's a good start to my end-of-the-year challenge and I know I worked hard for it.

Last night I took the kids for Subway and opted for a salad with dressing on the side (I used half the dressing). It was another moment of "Look ma! I'm doing this!" as I was very content with my meal and even more that it helped me stay within my calorie budget after having a large lunch.

This morning I met a friend to do walk/jog intervals at a nearby neighborhood walking path. She said it's about 2 . 5 miles around, and I would've double checked but my garmin died about 2 minutes into it. *sigh*

Then I had to use the restroom from, oh..pretty much the beginning.

Folks, there is nothing that will ruin a workout more for me than the urge to pee. I will stop what I'm doing and go to the bathroom without giving another thought to time records, losing my place on a machine at the gym etc.. Unfortunately that wasn't an option today.

So, needless to say having the urge to pee every time we'd run ruined the entire experience for me. Yes, seriously. I was so mad.

However, when we finished and she told me that we completed it in approximately 34 minutes...I was happy. While the last few running intervals were hard for me (and I had to pee worse than when we started, like seriously thought Depends might be my best option when running) I was pleased to hear her say, "That's a pretty good time. My fastest is doing that in 32 minutes."

And I wasn't exhausted when it was over.

Anyway, I'm rambling now, so I should stop. I'm happy with the loss. I'm happy that I did the running. I'm happy that I have a toilet.. LOL and I'm happy that when I stopped at Starbucks on the way home to get some coffee I had this little conversation with myself:

"- oooh...a pumpkin something sounds good, or even a non-fat, sugar-free latte.

- No, I don't really want that.

- We used to feel like we earned something special after a hard workout, or just on a bright sunny day like today when the birds are singing and it's brisk and cool out.

- There might be cake at the birthday party tonight, or higher cal foods...so I don't need anything "special" right now. Plus, we're going to be eating out tomorrow while watching the game. and....I don't really want it...just some food, which I can have at home.

- okay. You're right. ...we don't really want it do we? Weird, but cool! "

And that is how I'm going to get these 20 pounds off. Have a great weekend!!

Getting It Off My Chest

Yesterday morning I got up and weighed myself like I do every morning. The scale hadn't budged hardly any since Friday, and it was very upsetting to me.

My thoughts were this:

"I've stayed within my calorie budget every day, worked myself so hard that my legs are still aching, haven't had hardly any time to just rest and read (due to busy schedule and fitting in trips to the gym daily) and for that?!?! I'm never going to lose 20 pounds if this is how my body is going to react to heavy workouts and eating well."

Yes, I know that last part doesn't make a lick of sense, but it's how I felt. I proceeded to go ahead and indulge throughout the day adding probably an extra 150-250 extra calories to my day.

I know this is only the first week.

I know I have to keep going.

I also know that when my legs are hurting like that and I'm drinking at least 96 oz. of water a day it's vexing to not see miracles on the scale.

I also know the scale is only a number, not a complete depiction of how well my body is feeling these days.

But I also know I was vexed...and while I was nervous to post this because people who know me personally will think I over challenged myself on the Hot 100 or think I'm just the same old emotional Leah, I decided I had to post it.

Because I had a crappy day.

The silver lining on my day consists of the following threaded together:

• I was asleep by 10:15 pm, which lead to a good nights rest.
• I did not eat an extra 1,000 calories as I could have.
• I still did a 30 minute workout on the arc though I was sore and vexed (is that where "sorely vexed" comes from ??)

Anyway...there it is folks. It's off my chest and I'm going to choose to leave it here. On the blog. And no longer heavy upon my heart. And for those of you rolling your eyes because it hasn't even been a week...well...please stop.

I keep remembering Galations 6:9

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Thanks for listening.

Awesome Weekend

I had an awesome weekend!! (Monday was a very full laundry day w/a baby shower etc., so I'm barely getting a chance to blog about it today.) Besides the fact that I tracked all my eats and stayed within my calorie budget (a small miracle for me) it was full of good choices and strong decisions like these...

When the family was having this late Saturday night:

I was eating this:

A whole wheat waffle with a kids size Chobani greek yogurt on top. (Thanks to Jillian Michaels for that food combination idea.)

I did NOT eat even ONE, NOT ONE french fry. This is huge for me!!

Then on Sunday we had company for lunch and my husband grilled some marinated beef loins and vegetable kabobs.

While I had also prepared some twice baked potatoes with all the yummy goodness of sour cream, cheese and ranch inside...I chose to only eat about two cups of the vegetables and the meat, which I measured on my kitchen scale to make sure I only ate one serving. No potatoes made it on my plate. (yes, I tasted a small bite to make sure they were okay, but that was it. - and yes I could've made them healthier, but I didn't want to for everyone else.)

That's not all...

After church Sunday evening we went to a fast food joint called Cookout which is known for lots of fried stuff and yummy shakes of many flavors. I usually get my food and then steal bites of my son's shake.

But instead I chose to have their grilled chicken sandwich with no dressing/sauces and a 1/4 - 1/2 c. serving of cole slaw which seemed to be prepared in vinegar, because there was no white sauce on it resembling mayo.

Again, I did not take one bite of anything fried off my kids' plates, nor did I have even one bite of my son's shake. I even made myself fill my medium-sized soda cup with water and drank that before having any soda.

What's crazy to me is that this hasn't been all that hard. The choices feel better and I know it's going to help me in the long run. It is a tad nerve wracking, like "Will I be able to stick with this??", but I know God is helping me and with His help and just taking it a day at a time I think I'll finally see reaching my goal weight become a reality.

Finally! :)