Chocolate

I was doing so good with not eating chocolate until this last week. Then I got a taste of it and I have been gone ever since. I really need to get control in this area.
I did go walking this week once and made it to the gym once. I don't know why, because I love to go to the gym, but getting there is a pain.

ITS ALL A PROCESS!

So I can't loose weight AND manage $$$ at the same time.
They just don't go well together in my head. So right now it is $$$. We have finally made a budget and we are sticking to it. What a pain!
I am seeing progress which is great. I think it has been many many years since we have had this kind of success financially.

231.6 LBS

Well today I weighted myself and I weighted 231.6. I gained a bit. I know it was that snickers that I had on sunday. I did pretty good for the first half of the week, but the second was a killer. I will do better this next week. I just need to keep up the will power.

5.9 LB LOSS

I weighted in today and I have lost 5.9 lbs. I weight 230.1 lbs. I am pretty excited. That is the closest to the 220's as I have been in a long time. I am pretty determined this next week. I really would love to get below 230.
I know when I get back to to working out more I will probably gain, but for now I am glad that it went down.

START WEIGHT AS OF YESTERDAY IS 236.4 LBS

Yesterday I started Weight Watchers again. I feel like I did so well on it and I just gave up. How dumb is that? Today is day 2 and I feel good. I started at 236.4 lbs. I am going to weigh in on Mondays.

I'M IN NEBRASKA!!

I have made it into Nebraska on my miles. Can you believe it? I can't. I am very proud of myself. It has been real hard for me to not just give up, but I haven't. I am going slower then I want, but I am going!

GROWING LETTUCE

I went to TREK last week and I gained 6 pounds in 4 days. I hated that. Some people say I gained muscles, but I do not believe that. I didn't work out as much doing that as I do at the gym. I didn't even get a sore muscle. I was slower then all the teenagers, but I did stay caught up. I need to get back on track. I need to make a point to get up in the morning and get to the gym. I also need to eat more veggies.

Today I ate salad for dinner. It was cool because I grew the lettuce. I also have tomatoes and cucumbers growing too, but not ready yet.

STEWART FALLS

Yesterday I hiked up to Stewart Falls. What a beautiful hike. I will be going on Trek soon and wanted a good hiking experience first. I did pretty good, but today my calves and right foot hurt so bad. I know I will survive, BUT I might have to go get a shot in my foot to make it threw Trek.

15 MILES AT THE GYM

I went to the gym today for the first time this week. I have been walking with my family, but needed to put a good days workout in. I felt much better afterwards. I am very glad I went.

235.2 LBS

I thought about giving up on writing in here since I am doing so badly, but decided that I need to still be accountable for my actions. Yesterday I weighted in and I weighted 235.2 lbs. I know this is a gain and I have earned it. I have not done well. Matter of fact while I am sitting writing this I am sucking on candy.
Today instead of walking with my family I went into my room and laid down on my bed and slept for 1 1/2 hours. It was so nice. I didn't realize I was so tired. I woke up and my family was gone on the walk and I totally missed it.
What is wrong with me?

GREAT DAY

Wow, have I slacked writing in here.
Today I walked 3 miles with my family and biked for 10 miles. It really feels good. I was also able to give advise of shoes. That makes me feel pretty smart. I know that I am not an expert, but it was nice to know that I have that knowledge.
My husband and I also sat down and wrote up a budget together. That was pretty nice too. I love doing things with him.
Well all in all, it has been a great day.

YARD WORK...AGAIN

Have you ever shoveled rock? Well today I did and it about killed me. I am sure my back is going to be sore tomorrow! I even put my garden in.
I was wondering...do I really save money on growing a garden? It cost me $70 to buy the plans, $100 on fertilizer, and then we have to water it all summer. Do I save that much on not buying Tomatoes, peppers, pumpkins, lettuce, cucumbers, and onions? Oh well I am working with my daughter to get our personal progress done and that makes it worth it.
Did I mention that I spent a good 3 hours doing yard work?

BACK TO 232.4 LBS

Today's weight is 232.4 lbs. That is down 3.4 lbs. I am so grateful. I really did try to eat better this week.
As our family we are walking 2 miles together this week. It was nice. I love to have time to walk and talk with my girls.
I also finished reading the Book of Mormon and I am almost threw with the morning session of conference. Wow! I love my I-touch.

GREAT DAY

I did about 6 hrs of yard work today. We ripped up grass and put in a new mailbox. Then we walked as a family for a mile. I really like working out with my family. I feel like I am setting a good example or everyone. Today was a great day.

B COMPLEX VITAMINS

I went today and got B complex vitamins. I took it about noon and I haven't been overly tired all day. I hope this is a good sign. I had several people tell me to try this so hopefully it will be the cure to my extreme tiredness.

REAL RUNNING SHOES

I went to a real "running shoe" store. I got a really nice pair of running shoes. They better be nice...I have never paid so much for shoes EVER. It really wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I did stay under $100. It took me about an hour to pick them out. I do have to say the lady at "Runner's Corner" was great! She was so patient and spent a lot of time with me. I did go to 26.2 (yes that is the name of the store) first, but I learned that they do not carry WIDE shoes. I am actually real glad that I ended up where I did.
Now lets just hope that it makes a difference. If only it could give me more endurance. LOL
I also did much better on eating better today. I have not gone over my points, but it is about killing me just sitting in this house.

GAIN OF 3.6

This week I weighed 335.8. I gained 3.6 lbs this week. So I realized when I stepped on the scale today that I have to get my crap together. I refuse to go back! I started counting my points again today. I did really good. I have to admit I wanted to eat candy, but I did not give in.
I love Dave Ramsey. I learn so much listening to his show. I feel like I am getting smarter and smarter each time.

SUMMER PLANS

I haven't written for a couple of days because I am trying to recover from an ear infection. I just haven't felt great. I have still been doing my workouts. I am maintaining my weight, but I know that isn't enough. I have gotten in the habit of buying junk food. I need to remember that just because it is a "good deal" doesn't mean it is a good deal for me!
I was thinking that I need to make sure and put any extra $$$ on my bills. I need to watch what I am spending my $$$ on. I need to not be eating out.
I also need to make a plan of how I am going to handle summer and having everyone home. In this I mean... me doing my workout. I need to make a plan and stay on top of my workouts. I am going to plan on just continuing my normal workout time. I can drag everyone along with me. Each morning I will still be at the gym. Each night I plan to walk around the neighborhood.

PASSING EVANSTON, WY

I passed Evanston, WY yesterday in my trip. I can't believe I am almost out of Wyoming. I got a great workout in yesterday and then I got to go hike up in the mountains. I ate really well and I am pretty much proud of my choices for yesterday.
Oh by the way, I weighted 232.2 this week. A bit of a gain, but not even a pound so I am not really too concerned.

ONE DAY AT A TIME

I didn't eat a lot of junk today. This is step #1. Today is an "one day at a time" kind of day.

YARD WORK

My leg hurts. It really sucks. I am not sure what I did, but I don't think I should do it again!
I didn't make it to the gym, but I did do yard work for about 2 or so hours. I think that counts. I shoveled, weeded, transplanted grass, put in landscaping rocks, planted plants, and now I think my garden in about ready to plant veggies. I guess that will have to be sometime next week.
I also ate my veggies today. This has seemed a lot harder to remember to do lately. I need to keep myself more aware of that.

SORE MUSCLES

I did not want to go to the gym this morning. I just wanted to sleep in. But I got up and got moving. I decided if I didn't go to the gym then, I might not. So I went. It was hard today. I don't feel good and I just don't think that I had the energy, but I made it and I even did my whole 13 miles. My muscles are real sore tonight. I guess they didn't want to work out after all.

I LOVE MY SHOES

I LOVE MY NEW SHOES! They are probably the most comfortable shoes I have had in a long time! I think it might have been, in part, the way I am tying my shoes. Either way I did great on the treadmill today. I felt great and then again I rode on the bike.
I have noticed that I bike slower when I am reading then when I am watching a movie. I guess I concentrate more when I read.
For lunch I had a great big salad. I haven't been eating enough vegies but today I did real good.

LOST 1.2 LBS. TOTAL LOSS 35 LBS

Yesterday I weighted myself and I had lost 1.2 lbs. I don't know how I forgot to write this yesterday. That makes exactly 35 lbs lost. Now if I could just lose that 1.8 I would be in the 220's. This is my goal for this next week.
To reach that goal I need to make sure I make it into the gym. I don't know what it is but I think I get "spring depression". Most people get "winter depression", but for me it is in the spring. I know if I focus I will be able to get pass it. Go to the gym tomorrow Stephanie!

OVER 400 MILES

I am over 400 miles. That is pretty cool. I have almost made it all through all of Wyoming.
I went to the Chiropractor today and I was telling him that the top of my feet were hurting. He showed me a new way to lace up my shoes so they are not tight on the top of my feet. I can't wait to see if it works. I hope it does. He was given me many good suggestions so far, so I think this will work.
I started to read the scriptures and Ensign magazine while I am riding the bike. I have read tons so far. I might be able to finish the Book of Mormon by the time that I go to Trek this summer.

NEW SHOES

It has been a while because my computer was in the shop.
I didn't get a lot of exercise done this weekend. I ran away and played with some of my family. I did go in to the gym this morning and it felt great. I have been doing some weights for my "intertube" I will see how it helps in inches at the end of the month. I have been taking turns running and walking. I really like how it pushes me. As long as my knees and shins hold up, I will keep doing it. Hopefully as I continue to lose weight it will be easier on those.
I went and got new shoes today. I hope they work good. My feet are so picky. I am limited because I have to use wide shoes, but then my arches are weird. But I think I found a good pair.

CHIPS ARE DETRIMENTAL TO YOUR HEALTH

I think I might be getting shin splints. My legs are hurting a little bit. I need to learn what to do to not get them.
Other then that things are good. I have eaten healthier today, but I just love chips and I keep catching myself eating them.
I also cheated and weighed myself today and I am very happy. I am just praying that I will be smart, while I am on my trip in the next few days, and eat healthy.
I did my mile in 13:22 today. I am getting faster!

1/2 OF MY WORKOUT

Today I got about 1/2 of my workout in. I had to go back to the gym 2 times to get that done. It just was one of those days, but I was very glad to get it in. I did my mile in less then 15 minutes today. I love that!

232.8 STILL THE SAME

I ate so many carrots today that I got a stomach ache. I just was in the munchie mood and I thought it I am going to much it needs to be healthy. So I ate tons of carrots. Then I ate ice cream. I don't even know why. I wasn't even hungry. I don't even normally eat lots of ice cream. I did real good until then.
I weighted in this morning and I weighted exactly the same as I did last week. 232.8. At least it wasn't a gain!

JUST ANOTHER DAY

I did a little bit better about not snacking. I at more healthy foods and drank a good amount of water. I got a good workout and feel good about the things I accomplished today.

PROUD

I have lived in my neighborhood all my fat life. But today I was proud!
I went to go to the gym, but it was completely packed. So I came home and jogged around our block. I took our dog and we jogged/walked around the block. I know some of our neighbors saw me. And I was proud! Proud to be in good enough shape to be able to do this.
I know I am not ready to run a marathon or anything like that but I am proud of the progress I have made.

PROGRESS

A couple of cool things today.
A while ago I was watching The Biggest Loser and they were all jumping up onto something. I realized that I can't jump. My legs want to do it, and my head wants to do it, but the middle part of my body doesn't move. But today I was able to jump up one step.
Second, when I started this whole thing I couldn't do lunges. My ankles, knees, and hips just wouldn't move the right way. Well today I was able to do them.
This may not seem like a big deal, but it really bothered me that I was not able to do these things. It is good to see progress in these areas.

SORE KNEES

Lifted weights today and boy could I feel it from yesterday. I have many sore muscles. I didn't think I had gotten that out of shape. Even yesterday when I was lifting it didn't feel like I was going to be sore. Boy was I wrong.
I did my mile in 14:48 today. I am improving, but I did have to ice my knees today. Hopefully I am not dying tomorrow.

LOST 1.4 LBS. TOTAL OF 34.8 LBS

I weighed myself and I lost 1.4 lbs. I feel pretty good about this. I have now lost 34.8 lbs.
I changed thing up a bit at the gym today. I did weights, which I haven't done in a while, biked, and ran. I ran one mile in 15:07. I feel great about this. Monday it took me 16:42. My daughter can do the mile in 10 minutes. This is my goal. I am hoping that I can do it soon. I know I can do it, just not sure when.

DON'T GIVE UP

My niece wrote and told me not to give up. She is right. I need to keep going. I need to write down what i am eating. I seem to do better when I am doing that. Matter of fact today is weight in day and I totally forgot.
I need to always be cautious and aware of what I am eating and I need to step it up.

FOCUS

I feel like I keep telling myself "tomorrow is the day I am going to get rededicated". I need to just do it. This has been the most unproductive month on my weight loss and I know it is my fault. I need to stay away from junk food. I need to focus. This is my goal.

I NEED A NEW DAY

Today's workout was real hard. It seemed to last forever. I really had to struggle today to do it. It wasn't the going to the gym part. It was the staying part.
I also really have struggled with not going and getting a pizza and eating the whole thing. I guess all in all, it has been a rough day. I can't wait for tomorrow to start. I need a new day!

BROCCOLI

I realized today that that awful stink I was smelling isn't me! It is the sanitizing spray that I use to clean off the machine that I am using. I have been noticing that my hands really stink even when I first work out. Today I was able to place the smell. I know that I still stink, but I am so grateful that it isn't THAT smell.
I went to lunch with a friend of mine today and I kinda blew my diet. I need to be better when I go out and eat. I am a pretty picky eater so it is easy to order the "normal" things. But fries are not a good idea for me. I did order broccoli today and that was good. I really love broccoli and I love that it is healthy for me.

1/2 WAY THROUGH WYOMING

As of today I am half way threw Wyoming. I can't believe I have gotten so far. I am so proud of myself for doing so much.
Today before I went to the gym I ate some beef jerky and then afterwards I ate some. I wanted to see if the whole protein thing would still work. I am not a super big fan of eggs so I am trying something different.
First thing I learned is it isn't good for me to eat before I work out (even protein) I kept burping it up the whole time I was working out.
Second I didn't get tired again today. So my plan is protein after each workout.

REBATES

It is a good thing I went to the gym early this morning. My day got away with me and I never would have gone if I hadn't gone so early. Today's workout seemed pretty easy. I just kept thinking about different things to do and try. I just let my mind wonder and today it certainly helped. Normally this makes my workout harder and longer, but not today.
I also got 3 new windows. I guess I get rebates for them. I need to find out all of the details on that tomorrow. I like getting $$$ back for improving my house. I also got my bills paid off.

ONE LB GAIN. TOTAL LOSS IS 33 LBS.

I totally forgot to write yesterday. I didn't realize it until this morning. I did try eating an egg after I worked out and I didn't get as tired. Maybe there is some truth to that. I am going to do it again tomorrow and see if I continue to have great results.
Bad news is I gained one lb. I knew all this eating crap would catch up with me. I am trying to do better this week.
Good news is I got my washer and dryer hooked up today. This should save me tons of money. My old dryer took about 3 hrs to dry my towels. Today it took 38 minutes.

FAMILY WORKOUT

My family went to Lagoon today. It was so much fun! I feel like a walked about a thousand miles. My feet hurt, I can feel the crispness on my face from a fresh sunburn, and I am exhausted. I don't really know how many miles I walked, but gave myself credit for 3 miles. I can work out 14 miles a day and it doesn't hurt as bad as 3 miles walking on pavement.
I know it is good to change your workout pattern, so I did today. I also got my screaming quota for the year in also. Today was great for working out in the real world, but bad for the diet. Cotton candy gets me every time. But there was a good deal of stair climbing so I think they even each other out.

MORE PROTEIN

I have been trying to do 14 miles a day, but I can barely make it to night. I am like mud by 7 p.m. Today I was thinking maybe I am so tired because I have been working out too much. Then I realized that on The Biggest Loser they work out a lot more then that. So it must be what I am eating. I think I need more protein. I think that is the key that I am missing. I am going to work harder to get protein in me. That is what I am going to start working on.

BED TIME?

I think I might have to go buy some new clothes soon. I have gotten a couple of shirts and bras, and I am grateful that I had some pants that I stored away. In the morning when I put on my pants they are sorta loose, but by nighttime they are falling off of me. I do have t say it is wonderful to know that I am creating this.
I think I might need to blog earlier in the day, because my this time of night I am so tired I just want to crash.
One of the things that I like about our gym is that when the doors open in the winter a blast of cold air hits you as you are working out. Not today. Each time it opened I was looking forward to that refreshing feeling, but it didn't come. I love that it is nice outside, but I do miss that blast of cool air.

25 LB BAG OF SUGAR

I really want to start to walk more when I am at the gym, but it take so much more time then biking or ellipticaling. I don't want to slow my progress on the miles that I am making so I don't do a lot of walking. I guess it is good that my feet feel good enough to walk more. Very rarely do they hurt anymore. I guess the 34 lb loss does help on the feet.
Today I bought a 25 lb bag of sugar. That was a pretty heavy bag. And to think that I have lost 9 lbs more then that. Wow, that helped me realize how much fat I am caring around every day. No wonder I am tired.

WEIGH IN DAY

Today when I got to the gym I felt a sigh of relief come out of my mouth. I was so excited to get there. Even better, there was so few people there I had my choice of lots of equipment. It was a bit of a slow start, but then I got going and really I didn't want to stop. If there weren't 8 other people depending on me for "stuff" I would have kept going.
Someone out there help me know what is going to give me healthy energy after a good workout. I always feel drained and drag the rest of the day. I think it also doesn't help that I am fighting a cold. But there has to be something. Right?
Oh, for the good news... (dramatic pause) I lost 3.4 lbs. this week. This is a total of 34.4 lbs lost. It has been 13 weeks and I feel so great about such a good loss.

LUCK OF THE GODS

One of my girls had her wisdom teeth taken out today, and I forgot that I can not leave her home alone. There goes my gym time today, but watch out tomorrow. Here I come.
Oh crap it is also weigh in day. I will need the luck of the gods this time!

SMALL DINNER?

We paid off another bill today. I am super excited about this. Usually it would mean that we can eat out more, but now it means we can put that $$$ to another bill. It is nice to be seeing progress being made. It sucks making sacrifices and not see any progress. But we are seeing progress!
Today was very busy and I didn't make it to the gym. I am already looking forward to Monday when I can go.
I was watching The Biggest Loser today and they talked about having dinner being one of the smallest meals of the day instead of the biggest. I am going to try this and see how it works.

PASSING GREEN RIVER, WY

Well I have passed Green River, WY today. I can't believe I have worked off that many miles in the last month.
It felt real good to get back in the gym today and do my workout. I learned a valuable lesson though. Don't eat a Strawberry Pie before you go work out! I decided to finish off the pie so I can start clean and not have junk around to eat. I am not sure if the stupid part was thinking that it was a good idea, or doing it. Either way, in case you were wondering, you will throw up!!!

MY PLAN

Well I spent a lot of today in the car and shopping with my daughter. I didn't make it to the gym but I am very excited to go in the morning. Spring break has been hard for me with the diet. I feel like it is hard to plan and not be around food. I need to get on top of this so that I can do it during the summer. I bought two new shirts and I do not want to grow out of them by being to big, but by being to small. This is my plan.

NATURE HIKING

Today was such a nice change. I took my girls and we went hiking in Snow Canyon. I have been there many times, but this is the first time I went on certain hikes. I also hiked while my girls played at the sand dunes. They enjoyed that a lot. I didn't get very many miles in, but it was nice to do them outside in the sunshine. I even got a sunburn!

GIVE ME RED SAND AND SUNSHINE

Well I have my first gain. I gained .2 lbs. I knew it was a bad week, but it feels pretty crappy to gain.
Today I ran away. I was able to get down and enjoy warm weather and sunshine. That will do more for me then anything else. There is a high that I get when I get around warm weather and red sand. I just love it. We went hiking in the hills today and got a bit dirty. It isn't the workout that I am used to doing, I could have done more but I ran out of time.

I NEED TO READ MORE

Today why I was at the gym I was watching a movie and it was close to the end so I didn't want to stop. I went 16.4 miles. I still didn't get the movie done, but I was too tired to keep going. I am grateful that I can watch movies when I am working out. One of these days I am going to try reading. I know that is better for me then watching movies. I will probably wait until the conference Ensign comes out.
Well I am going to take off for a couple of day, but I am still going to try writing if I can get to a computer.
Tomorrow is weigh it day. I am not looking forward to it this week at all.

NEW MEASUREMENTS

Sorry I didn't write yesterday. I was so tired that I went to bed and didn't think about it until I was almost asleep. When I realized it I said out loud "I didn't write on my blog". I think I scared my husband.
Well I made it to the gym today before the "Annual Easter Egg Hunt", which is good because there was not any parking when I left. But I think everyone that didn't go to the hunt was working out. I never did get on the elliptical, so I biked extra today.
I have done horrid on the food part of the diet this week. Part of it is knowing that it is Easter and I know I will eat more then my share of candy. Matter of fact I already have. So I decided to not be totally down on myself this week about what I am eating. I am still working out and next week I will do better on what I am eating.

I'M ON MY WAY

I went to the gym today and really enjoyed it. It really makes my days better. Even with the freezing weather and snow on the ground, I didn't mind going out knowing I was going to the gym.
I love my life, I love my husband, and I love my kids. What more could I ask for?
OH maybe to lose another 60 lbs. Well I am on my way!

IS IT THE WEATHER?

Today I am a bit depressed. I don't know if it is the weather or just because I didn't make it to the gym. I wanted to go to the gym today. I need to make a point of when I am planning my appointments that I need to plan gym time too.
today I ate more of the Whopper malted eggs and a donut too. I will chalk this up to a bad day and do better tomorrow.

LOST 3.2 LBS = 31.2 LBS

I really wasn't sure that I was going to lose weight this week. But I stepped on the scale and it said I lost 3.2 lbs. I didn't believe it so I moved the scale to make sure it was on flat ground. I got on it again. This time it said I lost 3.1 lbs. So I got off again and walked around the house again. I was sure I was doing something wrong. Then I got back on it again and it again said I had lost 3.2 lbs. So I guess after that many times weighting in I can trust that it is correct.
I am so proud of me. I weigh less then I did when I got pregnant my last time (which was 11 years ago).
I didn't get to stay at the gym the whole time today. I was a little disappointed. I guess that means that I need to work extra hard tomorrow.
I am also going to be better about the dieting part of my life. I didn't do so good last week. Think how much better it would have been if I had stuck to eating better.

MY WORKOUT

Yesterday my whole family went for a walk. That was real nice, except I needed to go to the bathroom the whole time. That is one reason that I love the gym. When you got to go, you can.
I did my gym time this morning. I realized that I don't even notice others around me anymore. I just get in, do my workout and leave. I don't worry about if people are watching my fat body bounce around. Matter of fact, I don't notice others fat bodies either. I guess I am getting more comfortable with my workout abilities.
Well tomorrow is weigh in day. Wish me luck. This week it will be luck if I lose.

OUT OF UTAH

I made it out of Utah today. Watch out New York here I come.
I am having the hardest time with the food part of my diet. I just want to eat everything. I am fighting it, and I am doing better then yesterday so I guess there is improvement.
I did work out my 14 miles today. I always feel better if I know that I got that in.
Tomorrow is Fast Sunday so I know that that will make it a bit easier. No one else will be eating either.
I did go walk outside today for one mile. It is was nice and sunny out. I know that also helped me feel less depressed. I love spring. The grass is started to turn green, the plants are getting color. Nothing bad about Spring!

CRISPY CREAM DONUT!

Today has to have been my worst day so far. I ate a Crispy Cream donut, Costco slice of pizza, Whopper malted milk eggs, 2 Manicotti, and buttery popcorn. Good thing I went to the gym. I will be going again in the morning.
Not only did I eat a lot I felt crappy. It is amazing how all that sugar in your body just zaps your energy.
I didn't even count my points today. That is the first thing I will do tomorrow!

TIME TO GET PRODUCTIVE

Today was super unproductive. I didn't make it to the gym or get hardly any of my stuff done that I needed to do.
I did clip my coupons and got them organized better. I decided to put them in a folder so that I can take them easier into the stores with me. I will let you know how this works.
I am planning on going to the gym in the morning. I have faith that tomorrow is be more productive then today.

IT'S PAYING OFF

My pants are real loose today. I can pull them down past my hips without undoing them. I guess all these days at the gym are paying off. But I am tired so I am going to bed. Good night.

MOM'S CABIN

Today I went with a brother and a sister of mine and we went up to my mom's cabin. She sold it and we helped her move her belonging out. The driveway was so snow packed that we couldn't drive the truck up it, so I got to go up and down the long, slick, muddy, snowy, and deep driveway carrying boxes, dressers, tables, etc... I am not sure how much I walked, but I counted 2 miles for it. It was pretty hard work.
When I weighed in this morning I had lost 2.2 lbs. This is a total of 27 lbs. I love that!!!!!!! I am proud of my progress.
I decided to not continue with paying Weight Watchers so that I can go weigh in each week. I will go back if I see that I start to slide. Right now I feel like I am and can continue doing on my own.

I'M A LEG KIND OF GAL

Today was one of those days that you need to just get up and get to the gym or you probably won't go. I really wanted to go back to sleep, but my body wouldn't. I have learned that when my thyroid is real high I just can't sleep.
So when I realized that I might back out, I just went. I am glad that I did. It was good to go. I rode faster and was able to get my 14 miles done is 1 hr. and 20 minutes.
I also noticed that I really have muscles in my calves. That is so cool. I am a calf girl. Some people like butts or arms, but I like the legs!!
I also realized that I can count the time that I walk with my family so I added that on today too. I may be out of Utah by the end of the week.

NO RELAPSE TODAY

I realized today that I can out workout anyone in our home. That is pretty good for an old fat lady.
Today was tryouts for the Biggest Loser, and it was only 45 minutes away. I thought about going, but then decided that I am doing pretty good all on my own. I need to just keep positive and keep going. Sometimes it seems hard, but I know that it is worth it. I also know that I am going to have bad days, but I know I am like an alcoholic. Food is an addiction. I know that when I just want to eat whatever I want. I need to take it one day at a time. I didn't relapse today.
I made my family go walk around the neighborhood today. You would have thought I asked them to do something REALLY hard. Well either way we did it and I loved it. The weather was perfect and I love my family and I want them to be healthy. I am going to try to do this daily along with my workouts. Lets see how that goes.

MODIFY

I think that I need to modify my goal. I am going to make it to New York by Christmas. I just really need 2 days off a week or I am completely exhausted. I am not quitting, just modifying.

I RAN .25 MILES

Today wasn't the normal Thursday. Usually on Thursday I end up having appointments all morning. They were all canceled for this morning. So I went grocery shopping. I wanted to get some taco shells form Fresh Market, but they were out, so I asked for a raincheck. They wouldn't give me one. I haven't done any rainchecks before but I thought that stores just did that. Maybe I am wrong. I know I am new to this, so maybe someone can help me understand this.
I did another 14 miles at the gym today. It is wearing me out!! I really want to stick to this and see if I can make it work. After all I really want to reach my goal to get to New York.
OH, I was sitting here thinking about what new and exciting things happened to day, then I remembered. I ran .25 miles today. NOT walked, but actually ran. I do have to thank my sister-in-law for telling me where to get a good sports bra (title nine), or I could not ever have done this (without black eyes). I haven't ran since Jr. High I think. I guess that tomorrow we will see how well my body did. I will keep you updated.

YES MY THYROID IS OFF

I am a bit discouraged today. My Dr. called me back and my thyroid is off. I knew that the test would come back that way (I guess it feels good to know that I know my body that well). But now I feel like it isn't me making me loose weight, but instead that my meds are doing it. So I finished off my 11 girl scout cookies. I know DUMB!!!!
Then as the day went on I realized that I have nothing to complain about. I have lost almost 26 lbs. Who cares how! My feet don't hurt at much. I fit into clothes better, and I can go 14 - 15 miles a day exercising. What am I complaining about? The only thing that will make me mad is if I gain it back now that they have changed my meds. Other then that I need to be thankful for what I have lost and stop focusing on "what if's".
My good news in my cholesterol is back to "good".
I rode 14 miles today which puts me in Heber. It is a cute little country town, nestled up in the mountains, that has some of the nicest weather in the summer. Wow, I am doing good (except for the Monopoly bars that I also ate today).

4.6 LBS TOTALLING 25.8 LBS

Well I did 15 miles today. That would put me a little more then 1/2 way up the canyon. I would have been passing a beautiful mountain lake today. I am suprised at how much I was able to do today. Especially when you put it into the real world like this.
I also learned not to put my cell phone on the treadmill without securing it. Because when it falls and hits a running treadmill the pieces can fly about as far as I rode today. I even had to go "find" the back of my cell phone under someone elses treadmill. I am sure that everyone else wanted to burst out laughing. I know I did! Well all is well with my phone again, AFTER I found all the part to it and put it back together.
I weighted in today and I can't believe it. I lost 4.6 lbs. That makes a total of 25.8 lbs in 9 weeks. I am very proud of myself.

SICK DAY

Yesterday I didn't feel good and today I still feel crappy. I did make it to the gym though. I didn't get my full 14 or 15 miles done, but I did get 9 done. I thought I might die while on the treadmill. My stomach hurt so bad and every time I would take a step I thought I might throw up.  But I survived for one more day. I hope that I feel better tomorrow.
Just before I started this diet I had gone to get my cholesterol checked. It was too high. I go tomorrow to get it checked again. I hope it has come back down to normal. I also weigh in tomorrow. I still haven't decided whither to resign up again or not. One more week to decide.

NEW YORK HERE I COME!

I decided to go to New York. I stole this idea from my niece. I am going to ride as many miles as it takes to get to New York. I am going to start this next week and subtract how many I have done. I am planning on getting there by  Labor Day, which is in September. It is 2192 miles which equils out to be 16 miles a day if I work out  5 days a week. Or 14 miles a day if I work out six days a week. On your mark, get set, goooooo.

GO ME!!!

I fit into a pair of pants that I haven't fit into for a very long time. I even had a shirt that matched. I had my wonderful husband take a picture so I could see the difference. I don't really see much of a difference, but I know that there is one.
Today was my daughers birthday and I ate a piece of cake. Now I have a stomach ache. I should have known better. And on top of it, it didn't taste good. I diffinately went over on my points today. I did go to the gym and worked out for 90 minutes. GO ME!!!

CHEESY DINNER

I ate 6 girl scout cookies today, and they really weren't that good. I must be training myself better. I don't really know why, but they just weren't that good. The taco soup was much better. I also made my sister-in-law's Baked Ziti tonight. Only 6 point per serving. So I had two servings. Good thing I made it to the gym today. I don't even feel bad about eatting such a cheesy dinner. It was a great day for me!

SKINNY FACE

I was just thinking... I don't know what I will look like skinny. This may sound weird because I am not talking about my body. I am talking about my face. I know what I used to look like, but I am 20 something years older.

I often go visit my sister is a town 4 hrs away (3 1/2 if you don't have to stop). When people see us together they always say that they can tell we are sisters because we look alike. I just do not see it. I know we must, but I have always been so much heavier. Will I wake up one day and and look in the mirror and see her? Keep in mind that this would not be bad, just weird.

I went to the gym this morning and I really enjoyed was having a good time. I didn't want to leave, except my feet started hurting. I think maybe I will start swimming some. I wonder if I fit in my swim suit now. I was seriously bulging out of it at the end of summer last year. I won't have time tomorrow, but maybe friday.

MINUS 3.8 LBS. TOTAL LOSS OF 21 LBS

Whooppppeeeeeeee! I lost 3.8 lbs. which is a total of 21 lbs total. I can't believe it! That feels like such a large amount. I now weigh under 250. I know that is still a lot, but it is 21 lbs less.
This is my new conflict. I bought 10 weeks with Weight Watchers. This was week 9. One more week and I have to buy more. Do I buy more or do I try to do it on my own? Am I strong enough? I think that I am and I could always go back on it if I can see that I am not sticking to it. Right?
I feel like I am getting to be such a tightwad (is that a word?). I have a few friends that I like to go out to lunch with. One of them called me and said that we should go out for lunch soon. I suggested that maybe we should  do a potluck lunch at one of our houses. She didn't really like this idea. But I started to think that I am starting to get smarter about my $$$.

I LOVE TO WORK OUT!

I have recently decided that I really like to work out. It is fun and I feel so good afterwards. Sometimes when I am done with my hour, I wish I could stay longer. I don't know if it is the adrenalin or what but I feel so good. 
Today after only about 1/2 hour my mom called and wanted to play. I love my mom so I went home and showered and got ready for the day, but I was sad to end my workout so early. I should get a good workout tomorrow.
It is also weigh in day. Eeeeeks, that makes me nervous!!!

GYM X'S 5

I guess my stomich is shrinking because I do not feel as starving as I feel like I would. I am pretty good at not snacking all of the time. Even at meals I find that I do not eat as much. Not because I shouldn't but because I don't want to.
I made it to the gym today without any problem. That makes 5 times this week. Yeah Me!

BUDGETING

I think I was pretty productive today. I made it to the gym and got a good workout. I really like to lift weights. I remember when I first started and I didn't know how to work machines and I would have to ask someone how to do it, or I would learn from watching others. But today I was able to help teach someone else how to use a machine. It was nice to be on the educated side.
I also set a budget for our $$$ for this month. We have talked about doing it, but have never actually sat down and done it. Of course I stilll have to pass it by my hot husband, but when that is done then it should be a go. I really hope that we can make it work.

I GET IT!

Today sucked! I ate 17 girl scout cookies. I figured I wouldn't eat a big dinner, but God had better ways to punish me. I got the hershey squirts and heartburn. I GET IT LOUD AND CLEAR!
On top of that I didn't get to they gym this morning and I just kept putting it off. Boy I really didn't do good today. I will try harder tomorrow. As for now I am going to go get a good nights sleep so that I can wake up tomorrow to burn off those extra calories.

HAPPY DAY

I had so much fun at the gym today. I am not really sure why, but I REALLY enjoyed it. I went first thing and got the machines that I like. I was home by 9 a.m. and able to get on with the rest of the day.
I also realized that my pants that were really tight when I started this journey can now be pulled down past my hips without undoing them. THIS IS SO EXCITING!!! I can not believe the progress I am making.
Yesterday I was talking to this wonderful lady in my neighborhood, she works out often so I was thinking that she could be a good resource, and was telling her about how my feet go numb. She suggested that maybe I am wearing my shoes too tight. I told her that I had already checked on it. Then she said that maybe I am putting most of my weight on the ball of my foot. I realized that this is true. Since my two foot surgeries I do not put a great deal of weight on my heals. Needless to say, todays workout was much better. No numb feet!

LOST 2.2 WHICH = LOSS OF 17.4 SO FAR

My first good news is today I biked for 40 minutes and then ellipticaled for 20 and my feet didn't go numb! Yippy for me.
Second good news is that I lost another 2.2 lbs. This is a total of 17.4 lbs. I really can't believe that I am still losing. Usually I fluxuate on what I gain or lose. But I have been pretty consistant. It has been 8 weeks that I have been doing this and I still feel good about myself, my pants fit better, and I know that I am a great deal healthier. Don't get me wrong, I am not giving up. Just feeling motivated.
I want to thank all of you for reading this and being a part of my motivating team. I am tired and going to bed. I will write more tomorrow.

I NEED WATER

So after my last post I realized that I didn't do as bad as I was thinking. I just need to be more on top of me going to the gym. I know that I feel better after I do. Also, it was good for me to set a goal with the Girl Scout cookies. I haven't gone over my 6 (cookies) per day.
I have had this faithful water bottle that I have been carrying around with me for some time. I take it to the gym, it's always in my car, or close by somewhere. It is nice because it has a little handle that makes it easy to carry around without getting my hand frozen. I love ice water! Well today while at the gym, I am walking from the bikes to the weights, and what do you know, the handle breaks off, causing the whole bottle to come crashing to the ground. It hit so perfectly that it shattered into pieces. It didn't just crack, nope, lots of pieces. And water and ice went flying all over the place.
I was grateful that no one was within close proximity (is that how you spell it) or they would have had a very cold and icy shower. Sad day for me. After that I still needed to bike for 40 minutes. I thought I was going to die of thirst. I definitely need to go get me another one. I can't work out without a bottle full of ice cold water.

WHAT WAS I THINKING

I had such good intentions! I woke up this morning to the smell of  homemade muffins. I restained myself knowing that I was going to be going to the movies today with one of my wonderful daughters. I love movie theaterpopcorn, so I was planning ahead, and didn't eat any muffins.

I kept putting off going to the gym, making excuse after excuse. I really had no good reason. I even wanted to work out. I just didn't want to go. As I look back at today I am kinda mad at myself for not just doing it first thing.

I did good for lunch and ate a 6 inch of a footlong Subway sandwich. Then I went to the movies and my daugher REALLY wanted butter on it. Because I am such a wonderful mother I "sacrificed" my popcorn to butter. And yes I ate tons. After the movies I called home and my husband informed me that THE GIRL SCOUT COOKIES WERE HERE!

Why did I ever order them? How dumb is that? I was even doing weight watchers when I ordered them. Well long story short. I ate 6 of them. I feel super guilty. Not just because I ate six, but because I will probably eat more. I know what you are thinking. Don't, throw them away. But I can't, well im not willing to. I am going to try and rashen them. I need to put a plan in place. This is my plan. No more then six a day. No more tonight.

Note to myself. DO NOT BUY GIRLSCOUT COOKIES AT WAL-MART THIS YEAR!

DON'T EAT OTHER'S FOOD!

I have missed my friends lately. It seems like everyone is so busy living their lives. So a couple of days ago we all agreed to meet today for lunch. I was willing to sacrafice my dinner points to go out with them and have a great well deserved time.

We went to a nice little diner type place names Smashburgers. It was very good and I ordered pretty healthy. Chicken sandwich without all the sauce, fries (this was the bad part), and a water. It didn't go bad until I lost control when I was done. You ask "what  could go wrong after you are done?". You are probably thinking she got dessert. Nope! I started to eat one of my friend's daughter fries (with her mom's okay). How dumb was that?

I need to stay away from restaurants right now. I learned today that I do not have the self control that I thought, or wished that I had. Lessons I learned today: Gain better self control. Don't eat others food. Don't use all my points on one meal.

On a happier note. I did go to the gym again today. I was real tired. I wanted to try the treadmill, but they were full the whole time. Tomorrow is a new day! Bring it on!

I'M COOL!

One thing I really like about working out is my calves. I love it when I shave my legs and there is some muscle there not just flab. This sounds a little weird, but I am a calves girl. I love it when my husband is in shorts, because I can look at his calves. I just didn't know it applied to me also until recently.

Not long ago I went to the Chryropractor and he was telling me that my calves were to tight. I was a little confused because I didn't know they could be "too tight". He explained that that was part of why my back and neck were hurting so bad. He gave me some stretches to do and I have been doing them faithfully. And he was right. If they hurt they are too tight. Now I am much more relaxed.

I went to the gym today in my new shoes. It was better because I couldn't feel the little bumps under my feet (threw my shoes). My teenagers have also commented that my shoes are "nice enough, that I would even wear them." Well I know that this is quite a complament. My feet still went a little numb, but not as bad. I guess I will see how it continues to go.

ONE DAY TO BE BOMBED!

This morning when everyone went to school, I went back to bed. I don't get to do this as often as I would like too, but I did today. I have noticed that there is usually one day a week that I am physically bombed. Today was that day!

I did pretty good about eating healthy. Somehow I forgot to restock fresh veggies. I really like to snack on them, and tonight I was missing them. So what did I do? I ran up and got some. I didn't get the best prices on them, but I figured it was worth it this time. I also ran into a great friend who said she over bought on carrots, and she said I could come to her house and get some. How's that for cheap?

I didn't make it to the gym today. Between sleeping in and my busy schedule today I just didn't make it. I actually felt sad about it all day. I kept thinking "I have 30 minutes right now. I could be at the gym", but as we all know when you go to the gym you really should shower afterwards, and I didn't have time for that too. So I will go tomorrow and try out my new shoes.

1.8 LBS LOSS = 15 LBS LOSS

Every week when I go weigh in I am so nervous. The whole time I am driving there I am praying, because I am a religious person, that somehow I did something right this week. My mind goes a million miles an hour.

Did I work out enough? Did I eat the right amount of food? I shouldn't have eatten those M&M's. I hate that I love chips (salt), etc...

Then I have to counter it by remembering that I really do enjoy working out  (even if the firefighters aren't there).

Today I biked for 45 minutes. I really enjoy biking. I have even thought about buying a bike to ride outside with my kids. Butt (LOL), I know my butt is huge and I don't want everyone driving by me to be thinking sick thoughts. Wondering why someone would be embarrasing themselves by trying to fit on those seats. Do all bikes still have banana seats? I remember when I was little and I got this cool bike with a banana seat. But now day's if I tried to ride one like that I think the seat would look lost. I just can't do that to myself, the people in the cars drivng by, or a bike right now. Maybe when I get smaller.

I also did the elliptical for 15 minutes. My feet did start to get tingley, but did not go numb. I feel so good about myself after I work out. My face is bright red and I look like I might pass out, but I do like it.

I then came home and and decided to cancel my dr. appointment until after I get a pair of shoes and see if that fixes the problem. Then after a nice hot shower, which I don't usually take a hot shower but it was freezing outside, I went to weight in. I LOST 1.8 LBS. THIS MAKES A TOTAL OF 15 LBS. Yippy, a loss!!!

Then I went and found a pair of shinny silver tennis shoes. Silver is not a color I would have normally picked out, but that is all they had in size 9! What is with that? Stores need to have a larger supply of size 9 shoes. What is this all about? Did everyone who is a size 9 go shoe shopping in the last 2 weeks? Well if so, I hope they got some nice shoes, because I know I did (even if they are silver).

NO TREADMILL TODAY

My feet have been either tingly (is that how you spell it?) or sore all weekend. I decided that when I went to the gym to not walk on the treadmill. That is usually when my feel hurt the most. I worked out for 1 hr. and felt much better. My feet didn't hurt as bad. It must have worked. Well for a bit.

I also thought 'maybe it is my shoes'. So I went to Shopko to get my shoes that are WIDE sized and don't hurt my arch. I was thinking that maybe that is why they are hurting. I know worn out shoes can do that. This is the first time that I have gone there that they didn't have my size. I have big feet. They shouldn't have ran out of size 9 shoes. I guess tomorrow I will go check out some other places. I know I need new shoes.

I also set up a Dr. appointment just in case it is something more serious. I do get a little paranoid about things. I convince myself that if I don't go see the Dr. then nothing is wrong. Well as long as he doesn't say that they need to cut off  my feet, I guess I will be okay.

WORKING OUT

About a month ago I was biking and I noticed that the guy next to me stunk so bad! It was so bad that I could taste it. And believe me, it didn't taste good. I don't usually smell other people when I am there. But it was BAD. It wasn't until about a couple of weeks later that I was tortured with that smell again. It wasn't the same person. Matter of fact it was a lady this time. I just have a hard time believing that a "lady" could smell that bad. It was so bad that I had to move to another bike.

Sometimes when I walk threw the front door I notice a smell, but I just chalk it up to, "good for these people for working out." Most of the time I don't even notice it.

Today when I went to the gym, once again I was on the bikes, and I could smell the person next to me. I don't know why I always smell it when I am biking. The treadmills are on a higher level and I know that heat rises. So why am I smelling it down there? Also the treadmill people are sweating a lot more then us bikers. I was thinking, "keep your smell to yourself. Isn't there something you can do to keep the smell to yourself." Of course it could be that they can't even smell themselves.

After biking I went to the weight room. I was doing some leg lifts and I realize how judgmental I just had been. The reason I realized this is because I could still smell that smell. And no one was even close to me. IT WAS ME! I STINK, AND I STINK BAD. I hope everyone that was biking next to me didn't smell me!!! After I realized this I couldn't even finish working out. I needed to go home immediately and shower. I can't believe I could smell that bad!

I guess I need to use my deodorant more before I go to the gym. Lesson learned (I hope this works). Don't worry, I smell better now, well until Monday when I go to the gym again.

PARKING FAR AWAY?!

Why do I try to park as close as possible to the front door when I go to the gym? Does it really matter if I burn a few extra calories? Isn't that why I am going? In the past I have gone to the gym when the parking lot is full and it really bothers me that I have to park across the street. This is completly stupid! So I made a resolution to not try to park as close at possible, but just when I see an open parking spot. I have been doing this at the grocery store too. I don't know that it helps me be skinnier, but I know it doesn't hurt me. It also helps me not to be so irritated with the people who got the closest parking spot. This has helped me to have less stress in my life (small amounts, but diffinately less).

Speaking of grocery stores, did you know they have Easter candy out now? This is bad for me. My favorite holiday candy is the malted milk eggs. I have to admit I bought some today. I did not eat them all in one sitting like I usually do. I didn't even eat 1/4 of the bag. This is an improvement for me. I can't wait until they are all gone, that way I won't hear them tempting me. I really need to pull them out and invite everyone to come and eat them so they won't be here anymore. Tomorrow I will.

If you are on this journey (weight loss, not eatting Easter candy) with me and want to add any comments please do. I would love to know how you are doing too.

I have heard that it is good to eat before you work out, so I have been doing this for the last week. But I feel like I am dragging when I do. I think I will go back to not eatting first, or maybe something very minimal would work. Any suggestion?

THANK YOU!

I like to go to the gym and do a bit of weight lifting (very little), some treadmill, elliptical, and biking too.

When I go on the treadmill or the elliptical my feet go numb after about 15 minutes. I have grown used to this, but today wasn't normal. I almost pulled a "biggest loser". By this I mean falling flat on my face and rolling off of the treadmill onto the floor because I couldn't pick up my feet. I tripped and stumbled, but luckily I didn't fall flat on my face.  I want to send a big thank you out to everyone who saw me do this and didn't burst out laughing. I don't know if I could have not laughed if I saw this happen. I don't' know why my feet go numb, but that might have been enough embarrassment to get me to the Dr. to see why.

Today was different in that my feet didn't just go numb, but they got to the point where they really started to hurt. I think it is time to invest in a new pair of shoes. The question is do I wait for them to go on sale? I tend to put this off for a while, but my feet have been reminding me all day that my shoes suck!

I also want to put a BIG thank you out to The Biggest Loser for making it OK for fat people to go to the gym. No one ever looks and me with the "your too fat to be doing this" look. I love that I am not the only fat person there trying to get healthier. I appreciate that people at our rec. center are friendly and kind. I have been places that are not like that. So, THANK YOU.

But my BIGGEST THANK YOU goes to the BUFF FIREFIGHTERS. There is nothing better then watching them as they lift weights. Not only are they amazing in all that they can do, but they are HOT! Thank you to all you wives, girlfriend, mother, etc. for sharing them with me, even if only for a short while.

I WILL GO TO THE GYM TOMORROW

I really wanted to go to the gym today, but you know how life goes. Laundry, bills, dishes, kids, fixing vacuums, computer games, and last but not least making after school snacks. Oh wait, parent teacher conference too.

First, I put laundry in. I have tons, but I know if I start early that I might get done today. I even remembered to put vinegar in with my new red shirt. My mom says that it helps to hold the color so it doesn't bleed (Is this an old wives tail too?)

Second I started out playing games on the computer. I don't know how or why but they can be so addicting. I always loose track of time when I am playing one. This is BAD HABIT #1.

Third, I decide that it is way past time to pay my bills. Then I will go to the gym. I am just grateful that it doesn't take as long as it did for my mom. I remember it taking hours for her. It probably still does. I love computers for more then just playing games I guess. I was actually pretty excited about paying bills. We have a car that is just about done being paid off. This is very exciting, especially since we don't even have the car anymore. LOL. Well at least I see a light at the end of the tunnel.

Fourth, I decided to vacuum my room. Well, I pulled out the vacuum and started to vacuum. I noticed that it had this funny sound to it. I keep vacuuming. Nothing was getting picked up. I wanted to pretend I was one of the kids and keep vacuuming (like I never noticed), but no, I decided to check it out. I look under it and of course the belt is broken and the brush isn't moving. "How many days or weeks has this been going on?" I think to myself. So, I go get the screwdriver and scissors because I can see hair wrapped around the brush.  It took me about 1/2 hour tearing all the hair and crap out. I think there was enough hair to make a dolls wig. We didn't even have another vacuum belt. I guess I need to go get several of those (so I can have some backups).

Fifth, I decided that I could go to the gym tonight when everyone else would be gone, so between doing more laundry, I jumped in the shower. One of my friends called and asked me to help with a couple of her kids after school. No problem. Oh crap, I have parent teacher conference for 4 girls tonight. No problem.

Sixth, I went and got vacuum bags. I had one of my girls help make cookies (mistake number ???) for after school snack. Boy did those cookies taste good. I NEED TO GO TO THE GYM!


I went to parent teacher conference and didn't have time to make a healthy dinner, so we got take out pizza. Boy did that taste good too. I REALLY NEED TO GO TO THE GYM!!

In the evening when things were quiet, my 10 year old says to me. "Mom, can we go get my coat now? I really want a skirt too. I will spend my allowance on it ($3.50). Oh I love how cute she is. I guess the gym will have to wait till tomorrow. We did find a cute jacket at Shopko. 80% off. I guess it helps to shop for coats this time of the year.

As I end my day, I go into the kitchen and grab the chips and salsa, sat down on the couch, and relaxed, glad for all I accomplished and the time I spend with my family. I even got all but one batch of laundry completed. I WILL MAKE IT TO THE GYM TOMORROW, and I will stay away from the chips and salsa.

ICE PACKS

It is so hard to get started after getting to sleep in for several days in a row (do I like holidays or not???). But I did!

I decided cereal sounded good (easy) for breakfast, which is ideal because I had NO energy. When I woke up my daughter I noticed that she was a little croupy (is that how you spell it?) I decided to go put some water on the stove to boil to help clear out her chest (Is this an old wives tale?) Well either way, as I was doing this my husband asked if I was making oatmeal. Oh yeah, as I was falling asleep last night I asked him to remind me to make oatmeal for breakfast because I need to get my whole grains in, and it tastes good (did you know fruit loops has whole grain too?). So I ate a pretty healthy breakfast this morning. I ate one helping and it gave me a tummy ache. I think it is the Satan trying to get me to not work out! But it feels good to know that I can get full from a small bowl of oatmeal.

Well I made it to the gym. Which I have grown to enjoy. I was on the treadmill and started thinking about when I began working out several years ago.

I remember the first time I went. I decided to ride the bikes. I rode it for 15 minutes and I truely thought I might DIE. After all, do you know how long that is? Well I decided to ride for 15 minutes a day, 5 days a week, for 2 weeks and then I would build on that. Thank goodness I have a great husband who let me use his ipod to watch movies on. That made it go a little faster, but I never realized that it would take so long to watch one movie. I also learned that movies aren't as fun if you are only watching 15 min. at a time.

More then how long it took to watch a movie. I never realized I would have to ice my knees and feet for so long. For about the first 3 monthes I iced my knees or my feet for at least 3 hours a day. I would be driving down the road with ice on my knees, trying to catch it before it feel to the floor if I went around a corner.
I know this sounds like I am streatching the truth, but no, it is real. I LOVE ICE PACKS!

Well today I weighed in. I lost 2.8 lbs. Which makes it a total of 13.2 lbs. Yippeeeeeeeeeeee!! As long as I am loosing and not gaining I am on the right track. I celebrated by going grocery shopping.

I know this sounds backwards, but I love to get deals. My best deal of the day was barbeque sauce. I got it at Smith's .69 cents for Krafts. I got 11 of them. I don't know why I picked 11, it just seemed like a good odd number.

Well back to working out. I now do not have to "ice" my knees or feet most of the time. But I alway have ice packs in the freezer ready for those days that I still need them. I truely believe that if you haven't been working out and you are going to start INVEST IN ICE PACKS!!!

STARTING POINT

I was thinking that I need to share my starting point.

About a month ago I was going shopping with my coupons at Smith's. I had gotten a few things that I needed and was going to go get some toothpaste (because I was getting it for .25 cents each). I was looking for the specific kind and I had to bend down to get it off of the shelf. I was feeling very confident and proud of myself for how well I was doing with saving $$$. I bent down to get it and the whole back of my pants ripped out. I am not kidding when I say the WHOLE BACK OF THEM!. I was bent over thinking, "did this just really happen to me in the middle of the grocery store?" I quickly look around to see who saw (because when this happens you know that someone saw). There was no one on the isle. I couldn't believe how lucky I had just gotten. My first thought was no one saw.

My next thought was "Holly Crap, now what". I then realized that I had my jacket on. Luckily I could just wrap it around my waist and go through  the check out. Which I was so grateful that I didn't have to leave my grocery basket and run out the door trying to cover my big butt up as I was casually (so not to bring attention to myself) walking out of the store.

My third thought was that I needed to go to Weight Watchers immediately. I had been thinking about it for some time, but kept putting it off. I decided if I left there, went to Walgreens (more coupons), went to D.I., then I could go directly to Weight Watchers because it was on the way. I didn't know if it would be open.  I thought about going home to change my pants before doing anything else, but I knew if I did that I might continue to find excuses.

So, after going into Walgreens' with my jacket around my waist, I went straight to sign up AGAIN. I had joined Weight Watchers previously a couple of years ago and I had done pretty good. I knew I could do it, but for how long?

I wish I had taken a picture of my split pants to put on here. That would have been a good laugh. Even the day that it happend I laughted about it. I think that this is a funny story! It still makes me smile Even though I do tell myself that the pants weren't really tight, but only worn out. Who know? I just know that they split really well!!!

I started out at 267 lbs and have lost 10 lbs in four weeks. I have gone from barely fitting into my size 26 pants to being able to zip them up. Good bye sweats, because I can now fit into my jeans again.  Well the ones that I didn't split open. Well I weigh in tomorrow, lets see how I do.

THIS IS ME

My name is Stephanie. I decided to start this to see if it will help motivate me. I am not well spoken and certainly not good at writing, but I am willing to try this. I am a 42 year old married woman. I have 3 of my own children, 5 foster children, and a wonderful husband.

Always, growing up, I thought I was fat. I remember being in high school and I fit into size 11 or 13 pants. This was back in the day when you had to lay down on your bed and suck in your gut just to get your pants zipped up. What I would give to be that "fat" now! Just thinking about it makes me want to laugh. I can just see myself laying on my bed, trying to zip up my pants. I bet my fat hung over the top of them. LOL

Right now I am in a size 26 pants and weigh 257 lbs. It is a little scary to post this where others can read it, but I need to do this. When I got married almost 17 yrs ago I weighted 180 lbs. I was worried that I was to fat then. Wow, I let things get out of control.

Not only that, but I stopped wearing makeup and no longer do much with my hair. I kinda don't care about the makeup anymore. It just costs extra money, and I have to take it off each night. Well this is what I tell myself. I guess I just don't think I am pretty anymore. Deep down I know I am so this is part of why I am blogging.

My husband and I are awful with $$$. We get out of debt then we get right back in. So I started doing "coupons"in December. When I say this I mean, we now get 6 newspapers each Sunday and I pull out all of the coupons and file them in a little portable file cabinet that I bought. Each one is dated and it say's what kind of coupon it is. Then I go onto grocerysmarts.com to find out what is on sale and use my coupons to, well it is basically buying food storage. Then we make our menu out of what we have in food storage. So far this is working out good, but I know I still have a lot to learn.

Well this is me. This is my first blog. Lets see how it all goes!