tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75427981592073716252024-03-12T22:08:56.949-05:00Reasons for a healthier me!WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-5660425332772082672008-07-14T13:28:00.004-05:002008-07-14T13:44:28.458-05:00I'm baaaaaaaaaack!!Wow, its been ages since I checked in. The summer has been crazy and I have fallen short of my dedication to my weight loss pals. I am trying to catch up with blogs and I must say everyone looks great. Becky you are one hot Mama!!! Colette you are looking good and congrats on the weight loss great job!! Have fun on your vacation it sounds wonderful. Steph you are one beautiful Mommy and I am so excited for you. It was really great to catch up on everyones blogs and I will try and do better with keeping in touch. All is going well with me and I am keeping active so the weight is staying off. I would still like to lose more and continue to work on that. Take care my friends and have a great summer!!WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-15641747509292961182008-04-19T10:21:00.002-05:002008-04-19T10:27:31.019-05:00It's me checkin in to say howdy.........It's been a while since I blogged so thought I would drop in and say hello. Things are ever so slowly warming up in Minnesota which seems to put everyone into a better frame of mind. I have started walking outside again which makes the pooch happy because he's getting his walks also. I've managed to maintain my weight over the winter months but would still like to see another 10lbs + melt off although its proving to be easier said then done. I have to admit though I feel healthier then I ever have so I must be doing something right. I check in often and read blogs but haven't been real good at blogging myself. No excuses just plain ole laziness. LOL All of you continue to be an inspiration to me and for this I am thankful. Take care of yourselves and God bless. :)WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-14029379622609054052008-03-28T13:17:00.003-05:002008-03-28T13:20:52.980-05:00So this is what I've been doing wrong........<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_09yje89ZSYecMJWkZOtBgXYanR6Y7rB39LMfIbJDP9nC9UNsz801ZOK2vHOHGKk1qrkoDTCXOEcDly7AAu8Ub9cFh-rG01BhZJZw0kyNMu5WjlkkV9ziOw9Jr5Z6pw0Zix_Hx1-QKCE/s1600-h/fit207.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5182858916974817250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_09yje89ZSYecMJWkZOtBgXYanR6Y7rB39LMfIbJDP9nC9UNsz801ZOK2vHOHGKk1qrkoDTCXOEcDly7AAu8Ub9cFh-rG01BhZJZw0kyNMu5WjlkkV9ziOw9Jr5Z6pw0Zix_Hx1-QKCE/s320/fit207.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div>All this time I've been using the wrong tapes for weight loss. :) I thought this cartoon was cute and wanted to share. Hope everyone's life is going well and you have a wonderful weekend!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"></div>WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-65410434775852926312008-03-13T10:06:00.004-05:002008-03-13T10:15:03.086-05:00Spring gives me renewed strength..........It's been such a long time since I checked in so thought I would drop by and say hello. Things are going well around here the weather is finally warming up which is a welcome sight in the frozen land of Minnesota. I can't wait to start my garden and be able to buy fresh fruit and grill out once again. These things seem to make eating healthy much easier. In fact, the nice weather just gives me a positive attitude which helps in all aspects of my life. I've noticed some of my blogging buddies have been LOA much like I have so hopefully they all drop in soon and let us know how they are doing. All of you are never far from my thoughts so I hope life has been good to you and all is well. Take care and remember............<br /><br />"People become really quite remarkable when they start thinking that they can do things. When they believe in themselves they have the first secret of success."<br />- Norman Vincent PealeWeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-59371854117260849582008-02-22T10:09:00.009-06:002008-02-22T10:32:38.048-06:00Time for a blog........<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEC0prNmx3n4wxmc7Zz-JpfPnnuON3Er19mkwB4iUrKpb8-HW3NGX_PiYXljiRq_Gjo01V3kZrmu4UXWYGgc562Y2FSdg-2vSPjPB2iU3QkALKxgTgD7UtVSoM2-rCcIBh_cAZmDNG4_s/s1600-h/fit17.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169842586275578866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEC0prNmx3n4wxmc7Zz-JpfPnnuON3Er19mkwB4iUrKpb8-HW3NGX_PiYXljiRq_Gjo01V3kZrmu4UXWYGgc562Y2FSdg-2vSPjPB2iU3QkALKxgTgD7UtVSoM2-rCcIBh_cAZmDNG4_s/s320/fit17.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>It's been a while since I blogged so thought I would drop in and say hello. I do lurk about and read other blogs which keeps me inspired. I am managing to keep my weight off with watching what I eat and exercise. I am no longer going to Weight Watchers but continue to follow their program which works well for me. This has been a long cold winter in Minnesota and I will be very happy when spring arrives so I can do more exercising outside. I miss my long walks which are a lot less boring than the treadmill. I hope all is going well with each of you and your life is happy. Take care and keep on keepin on!!</div><br /><p></p><br /><p align="center"></p><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div>WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-49063474646289639272008-01-28T17:31:00.000-06:002008-01-28T17:34:16.439-06:00How to weigh yourself..............<div align="center">I can't believe I was doing it wrong all these years!!!</div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0XGlkY6GOQ9PK8a-oWazgUZ6eOE7hT-0Sn1IFsDd9ys9mfYZ9drLVJWqvQ5XTe-nPyIqCXROQJ3CItd0hzExlz7Sh6WiwzuUtifdPAH2SCNTxA9pXGmDoV6R8h2BLKKOvfhU4wYoHU0/s1600-h/Image.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5160674635003850818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0XGlkY6GOQ9PK8a-oWazgUZ6eOE7hT-0Sn1IFsDd9ys9mfYZ9drLVJWqvQ5XTe-nPyIqCXROQJ3CItd0hzExlz7Sh6WiwzuUtifdPAH2SCNTxA9pXGmDoV6R8h2BLKKOvfhU4wYoHU0/s320/Image.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-63685313679461702192008-01-22T10:47:00.000-06:002008-01-22T13:20:47.688-06:00Making dreams come true..........."Somehow I can't believe that there are any heights that can't be scaled by a man/woman who knows the secrets of making dreams come true. This special secret - curiosity, confidence, courage, and constancy, and the greatest of all is confidence. When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionable."<br />- Walt Disney<br /><br />I have to keep believing this last 10lbs will come off. It may take a year but I shall accomplish my goal and learn to be happy with how far I have come. Hope all my wonderful blogging friends are having a good week. :)WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-76410428664002709782008-01-17T18:02:00.000-06:002008-01-17T18:19:49.686-06:00Quote for the day......."It's easier to go down a hill than up it but the view is much better at the top."<br /><br />I realize its not always easy to get to the top of that hill, I often find myself huffing and puffing along the way. I stop to rest claiming I want to view the scenery but once I do get to the top the rewards are plentiful. Dragging my big butt up there can prove to be a challenge but I know this is what I need to do for myself.<br /><br />Hubby and I started on a new insurance plan this year which pays $20 towards each of our health club membership but the catch is we both have to attend 12 times in a month. I won't have a problem doing that because one thing I do passionately is remain dedicated to Gym. I can't let Steph be the only one playing around with him so I see him on the side too. LOL The hubby on the other hand is another story. I already told him he can't just go check in and leave he needs to work out. So far he's only attended four times this month so he's got a lot of working out to do to make his quota. He did attend this afternoon after work but wasn't gone long stating many people were waiting for the treadmill so he didnt want to stay on it to long. Nice story huh? LOL This should prove to be very interesting.<br /><br />I am having a lot of problems getting the last of my poundage off but I am maintaining so this is a good thing. It's amazing how good some foods taste now that I've changed my eating habits. I never would of reached for grapes instead of a cookie but now grapes taste so sweet to me. Not to say the cookie isnt still tempting I just don't keep them in the house or they would be calling my name. LOL<br /><br />I hope all is well with each of you and thank you for the support you give me and everyone else on here. You all are wonderful and very much appreciated. Have a great weekend. :)WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-86810091008205531652008-01-09T13:56:00.000-06:002008-01-09T14:05:11.631-06:00“Tell me, mirror, tell me true!Hope all is well with my blogging friends. I haven't written many post lately but have lurked around some keeping track of everyones progress. Now that the holidays are over my plan is to stay on track and continue on with my exercise. My weight has remained the same but I really want to get this last 10lbs off of me. My body isn't cooperating with me though but hopefully with perservance it will all come to pass. I found this cute poem and thought I could definitely relate to it and perhaps you all can too so thought I would share it. Hope all is well with each of you. :)<br /><br />Mirror Mirror<br /><br />Mirror mirror on the wall do you have to tell it all?<br />Where do you get the glaring light to make my clothes look just too tight?<br /><br />I think I'm fine but I can see you won't cooperate with me.<br />The way you let the shadows play you'd think my hair was turning grey.<br />What's that you say, a double chin?<br />No that's the way the light comes in.<br /><br />If you persist in peering so you'll confiscate my facial glow.<br />And then if you're not hanging straight you'll tell me next I'm gaining weight.<br />I'm really quite upset with you for giving this distorted view.<br /><br />I hate you being so smug and wise.<br />Oh look what's happened to my thighs!<br />I warn you now oh mirrored wall since we're not on speaking terms at all<br />If I look like this in my new jeans you'll find yourself in smitherines!WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-85028638285828176202007-12-31T10:43:00.001-06:002007-12-31T10:56:43.116-06:00Good Health, Love & Happiness To All In 2008!<span style="color:#ffcc33;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXyuhKq73K1jXbBOjAhP-5C05hHNlKVONDSJvx9Z2VHHb_-zJ_fElXTIDpfGxvxC2HZGsSa45PffO9vUI5C7hUHgrYvoUhgK398jNkgMWDXFQrkP8P1Blb6EcKL5bhyphenhyphennos9h0whEy5Ko/s1600-h/newyear005.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150178813034748562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXyuhKq73K1jXbBOjAhP-5C05hHNlKVONDSJvx9Z2VHHb_-zJ_fElXTIDpfGxvxC2HZGsSa45PffO9vUI5C7hUHgrYvoUhgK398jNkgMWDXFQrkP8P1Blb6EcKL5bhyphenhyphennos9h0whEy5Ko/s320/newyear005.bmp" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#cc9933;"><br /></span><span style="color:#ffcc99;">Happy New Year to all my blogging friends and all the best in your life in 2008!! This has been a good year for me as I walked this path to weight loss and I have much to be thankful for. Most of all I appreciate your support, listening ears, and understanding as we struggle together to become healthier and happier people. Good things are ahead for us as we continue on down the path of success. Thank you so much for being here when I needed you the most. Enjoy your holiday!!</span>WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-5298111224503990902007-12-21T21:16:00.000-06:002007-12-21T21:23:23.662-06:00Peace and Joy To All.......<div align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij6e-zZ7Fm0crZZe5pTo2RT0Jnivgczpm1e-SqERb8Vs5JRszcV2WQpIr1YZOQ4Bxc60Ar30umxLsX6nVJUIY2ssjgdRT54Nwrx2lju30OKLesCxPmPSHdY4GDwbfbbIRpWKH6-OakFA4/s1600-h/me_chr1.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5146631401976486530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij6e-zZ7Fm0crZZe5pTo2RT0Jnivgczpm1e-SqERb8Vs5JRszcV2WQpIr1YZOQ4Bxc60Ar30umxLsX6nVJUIY2ssjgdRT54Nwrx2lju30OKLesCxPmPSHdY4GDwbfbbIRpWKH6-OakFA4/s320/me_chr1.gif" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div align="left">I hope all my blogging pals are having a wonderful week. I weighed in this week and was down a pound which pleases me. I've been working so many hours I sometimes feel I am not eating the things I should although I do try. I continue to work out but not as often as I would like. Hopefully after the holidays I can get back on my regular exercise regimen. I hope your holidays are filled with much laughter, contentment, peace, joy and love. Merry Christmas!!</div>WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-1108443194251654322007-12-06T21:40:00.000-06:002007-12-06T21:47:41.841-06:00Same-O Same-O.........Just me checking in to say hi and I hope all is well with my blogging buddies. I am maintaining my weight which is something I hope to do through the holidays. I am working now so its harder to keep up with exercising every day but I am managing to go 4 times a week so thats helping me to maintain. Now that its so cold out I find myself dragging my butt to the gym so I've got to work on having more of a positive attitude regarding my exercise. Once I go I feel very good about myself but that feeling seems to fade away when its time to hit the gym again. I think Gym and I are having this love/hate relationship right now. Hope you all are having a great week. :)WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-14937485575230774912007-11-30T09:02:00.000-06:002007-11-30T09:13:54.354-06:00Things we already know...........I know this and I realize you know it too but I remind myself it never hurts to freshen my memory to whats important and keep it in perspective. I know I tend to forget the important things that helped me acheive my goals especially during the holiday season so I wanted remind myself that I could enjoy this joyous time yet remained focused on whats best for me. Thats exactly what I am doing with this article so thought I would share it with you.<br /><br /><br />The Psychology of Eating:<br /><br />What we eat affects how we feel. Food should make us feel good. It tastes great and nourishes our bodies. When eaten in too little or in excessive quantities, however, our physical appearance can be altered, which can create negative feelings toward food.<br /><br />By learning how to make better choices, you might be able to control compulsive eating, binging, and gaining weight. In addition to better appetite control, you might also experience feelings of calmness, high energy levels, or alertness from the foods you eat.<br /><br />What factors influence our eating behaviors?Experts believe there are many factors that can influence our feelings about food and our eating behaviors. These include:<br /><br />Cultural factors<br />Evolutionary factors<br />Social factors<br />Familial factors<br />Individual factors<br /><br />There also are positive and negative consequences associated with eating. For example, food might help you to cope with negative feelings in the short-term. In the long term, however, coping with stress by eating can actually increase negative feelings because you aren't actually coping with the problem causing the stress. Further, your self-image might become more negative as you gain weight<br /><br />What role does psychology play in weight management?Psychology is the science of behavior; in essence, the study of how and why people do what they do. For people trying to manage their weight, psychology addresses the following areas:<br /><br />Behavior -- Treatment involves identifying habitual patterns of eating and finding ways to change eating behaviors.<br /><br />Cognition (thinking) -- Therapy focuses on identifying self-defeating thinking patterns that contribute to weight management problems.<br /><br />What treatment is used for weight management?Cognitive behavioral treatment is the approach most often used because it addresses both thinking patterns and behavior. Some areas addressed through cognitive behavioral treatment include:<br /><br />Determining the person's "readiness for change" -- This involves both an awareness of what needs to be done to achieve your goals and then making a commitment to do it.<br /><br />Learning how to self-monitor -- Self-monitoring helps you become more aware of what triggers you to eat, and more mindful of your food choices and portions. It also helps you stay focused on achieving long-term progress.<br /><br />Breaking linkages -- The focus here is on stimulus control, such as not eating in particular settings and not keeping poor food choices in your home. It also teaches distraction, replacing eating with healthier alternatives as a coping mechanism. Positive reinforcement, rehearsal/problem-solving, finding social support, and altering eating habits are specific techniques used to break linkages.<br /><br />What does cognitive behavioral treatment involve?Cognitive therapy address how you think about food. It helps you recognize self-defeating patterns of thinking that can undermine your success at weight loss. It also helps you learn and practice using positive coping self-statements.<br /><br />Examples of self-defeating thoughts include:<br /><br />"This is too hard. I can't do it."<br />"If I don't make it to my target weight, I've failed."<br />"Now that I've lost weight, I can go back to eating any way I want."<br /><br />Examples of positive coping self-statements include:<br /><br />"I realize that I am overeating. I need to think about how I can stop this pattern of behavior."<br />"I need to understand what triggered my overeating, so I can create a plan to cope with it if I<br />encounter the trigger again."<br />"Am I really hungry or is this just a craving? I will wait to see if this feeling passes."<br /><br />SummaryTo lose weight:<br /><br />You must change your thinking. Weight management is about making a LIFESTYLE CHANGE. It's not going to happen if you rely on diet after diet to lose weight. To achieve success, you need to become aware of the role eating plays in your life, and to learn how to use positive thinking and behavioral coping strategies to manage your eating and your weight.<br />To help get you started, here are a few tips:<br /><br />The "dos and don'ts" of healthy eating<br />Don't skip meals.<br />Do keep track of your eating habits. (See "food diary" below.)<br />Don't eat after 7 P.M.<br />Do drink plenty of water.<br />Do delay/distract yourself.<br />Do exercise instead of eat when bored.<br />Don't eat while you watch TV, work, drive.<br />Do only eat in certain settings (kitchen table).<br />Do watch your portion sizes.<br />Don't forbid yourself a particular food.<br />Do give yourself encouragement.<br />Don't beat yourself up when you lapse.<br />Do think of eating as a LIFESTYLE CHANGE.<br />Don't weigh yourself more than once per week.<br />Do make healthy food choices.<br /><br />The food diary<br /><br />A food diary is a tool to record--in detail--what food you eat, when you eat, how you feel when you're eating, and what you are doing (if anything) while you are eating. The diary can help you get a better understanding of what you eat and why you eat it. It also can help your doctor, therapist, or dietitian work with you to make the necessary changes for successful weight management.WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-66206489276898709232007-11-21T18:36:00.000-06:002007-11-21T18:46:43.175-06:00I Hope Your Holiday Is Blessed............<div align="center">Happy Thanksgiving to all my wonderful blogging friends! I am thankful to have you in my life, your support is much appreciated. May your day be filled with love, happiness and great times with family and friends!</div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFutFFPUdNQpa8tkW87Aypp-Pf9wne4coN1PZItS37dHVmuE-Jw0tzeOEOOgb-U4KzYOBUjLlcP7L68RIViB6RZkW7Mxe35AURLVfS-GaNlvQ15xsBF0eSCfK45UOvwMHm2fGy8kxLn8s/s1600-h/thankful.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5135458907245965634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFutFFPUdNQpa8tkW87Aypp-Pf9wne4coN1PZItS37dHVmuE-Jw0tzeOEOOgb-U4KzYOBUjLlcP7L68RIViB6RZkW7Mxe35AURLVfS-GaNlvQ15xsBF0eSCfK45UOvwMHm2fGy8kxLn8s/s320/thankful.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><br />A THANKSGIVING POEM</div><br /><div align="center"><br />TWAS THE NIGHT OF THANKSGIVING, </div><br /><div align="center">BUT I JUST COULDN'T SLEEP </div><br /><div align="center">I TRIED COUNTING BACKWARDS, </div><br /><div align="center">I TRIED COUNTING SHEEP. </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">THE LEFTOVERS BECKONED -</div><br /><div align="center">THE DARK MEAT AND WHITE </div><br /><div align="center">BUT I FOUGHT THE TEMPTATION</div><br /><div align="center">WITH ALL OF MY MIGHT</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">TOSSING AND TURNING WITH ANTICIPATION</div><br /><div align="center">THE THOUGHT OF A SNACK BECAME INFATUATION.</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">SO, I RACED TO THE KITCHEN, FLUNG OPEN THE DOOR </div><br /><div align="center">AND GAZED AT THE FRIDGE, FULL OF GOODIES GALORE. </div><br /><div align="center">GOBBLED UP TURKEY AND BUTTERED POTATOES,</div><br /><div align="center">PICKLES AND CARROTS, BEANS AND TOMATOES. </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">I FELT MYSELF SWELLING SO PLUMP AND SO ROUND, </div><br /><div align="center">'TIL ALL OF A SUDDEN, I ROSE OFF THE GROUND. </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">I CRASHED THROUGH THE CEILING, </div><br /><div align="center">FLOATING INTO THE SKY</div><br /><div align="center">WITH A MOUTHFUL OF PUDDING </div><br /><div align="center">AND A HANDFUL OF PIE. </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">BUT, I MANAGED TO YELL AS I SOARED PAST THE TREES.... </div><br /><div align="center">HAPPY EATING TO ALL - PASS THE </div><br /><div align="center">CRANBERRIES, PLEASE.</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">MAY YOUR STUFFING BE TASTY,</div><br /><div align="center">MAY YOUR TURKEY BE PLUMP. </div><br /><div align="center">MAY YOUR POTATOES 'N GRAVY </div><br /><div align="center">HAVE NARY A LUMP,</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">MAY YOUR YAMS BE DELICIOUS </div><br /><div align="center">MAY YOUR PIES TAKE THE PRIZE,</div><br /><div align="center">MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER STAY</div><br /><div align="center">OFF OF YOUR THIGHS.</div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING BE BLESSED!! </div><div align="center"> </div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">"What we're really talking about is a wonderful day set aside on the fourth Thursday of November when no one diets. I mean, why else would they call it Thanksgiving?"--Erma Bombeck </div>WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-74716549559813889122007-11-13T21:27:00.000-06:002007-11-13T21:57:45.744-06:00Before and after pictures..........I thought it was time I posted my before and after pics. I've lost a total of 85lbs and live a much healthier and happier lifestyle because of it. Thanks to all of you for the support I have received through this journey. I couldn't of done it without you and I still need you as I continue on. I "heart" you!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJ998eBhGG6Hcb66xWcxza0E_knmJjIe17mrH4PHaiiO6ts7oUjRHlWFKxareqIjEaQWHN50bXQPwxVaLY2qW3IkUp72we026nW_k9E8LGGQCS7pgEsT-tm3uERm0m1rvzTb0gzmYJPE/s1600-h/0000.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5132533657381493410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJ998eBhGG6Hcb66xWcxza0E_knmJjIe17mrH4PHaiiO6ts7oUjRHlWFKxareqIjEaQWHN50bXQPwxVaLY2qW3IkUp72we026nW_k9E8LGGQCS7pgEsT-tm3uERm0m1rvzTb0gzmYJPE/s320/0000.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynqsM9dry0eZGAQ_opxfng-BsQ6D39tI3KgW-Sm84RNqwsCWkQZJ_EFWT3Mx0ZFB1mlQMMPMX0OIg4ZZE2s8vhYIz9CuzqQDvsXj1FnRHsF2PwaD5JfV6c1SDM06FlvwNOczIHLCqI5w/s1600-h/Untitled.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5132533369618684562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynqsM9dry0eZGAQ_opxfng-BsQ6D39tI3KgW-Sm84RNqwsCWkQZJ_EFWT3Mx0ZFB1mlQMMPMX0OIg4ZZE2s8vhYIz9CuzqQDvsXj1FnRHsF2PwaD5JfV6c1SDM06FlvwNOczIHLCqI5w/s320/Untitled.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><div></div></div>WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-8107965197292545172007-11-08T09:00:00.000-06:002007-11-08T09:05:59.106-06:00Been lurking just not posting.........Greetings to all my blogging friends. I have been around lurking but havent taken time to post since I've been so busy working. I am doing all the baking at my daughters new restaurant and so far its going well. I did weigh in this week and lost 1.4lbs so thats a huge victory for me since I am baking so many goodies. I am managing to keep up with my work outs 6 days a week at the health club and hope to continue this even with working. I hope all of you are doing well and having great results from all the effforts you put into living a healthier lifestyle. Have a wonderful week. I leave you with a quote.............<br /><br />Failure is not a single, cataclysmic event. You don't fail overnight. Instead, failure is a few errors in judgment, repeated every day.WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-71699876641383350282007-11-05T21:51:00.000-06:002007-11-05T22:21:22.857-06:00I've been tagged so here are 7 things about me you don't know......1. I met my hubby in a bar and he couldn't speak a word of english at the time because he's from Slovenia.<br /><br />2. I have been all over Europe 4 times and loved going there but would never live anywhere but the good ole USA.<br /><br />3. I live in Minnesota but was born and raised in Southern Alabama.<br /><br />4. Both of my children own restaurants which is a down fall when trying to lose weight. :)<br /><br />5. I accidently came upon a nudist beach while in Europe but I was fully clothed.<br /><br />6. My best friend has become blind from an eye disease called <a class="l" onmousedown="return clk(this.href,'','','res','1','&sig2=okkY1h1AOyZV6eArSIGGhQ')" href="http://www.lowvision.org/stargardts.htm">Stargardt's</a>. I have so much admiration for the courage and strength she has in dealing with this disease.<br /><br />7. I worked for 25 years with mentally handicap children and adults. Through them I learned a lot about unconditional love.<br /><br />Here are the ones I tagged sorry if someone else already got you.<br /><br />Chubby Chick<br />StephWeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-44946125835465279932007-10-24T20:39:00.000-05:002007-10-24T20:47:53.952-05:00No catchy title...........This has been a decent week I have worked out 6 out of 7 days. I am only weighing in once a month since I was placing way to much focus on the scale and not enough thought on the positive things I was doing with my life. I do know I have lost inches since joining the health club and working out so much so this is a good thing. My daughter became the sole owner of a restaurant this week and she wants me to work for her making the desserts so this could prove to be a huge challenge for me. I have to remember to make them but not be a taster. Not always an easy thing to do since desserts seem to know me on a first name basis. LOL Wish me luck!! Hope everyone has a great week.<br /><br />Here is your weekly motivational quote:<br /><br />" Amazing results come by crossing all barriers and leaving nothing to chance. The bigger the challenge the greater the glory at the finish line! Run with nothing but hope, and the dreams you created."WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-47894882232792418832007-10-17T18:53:00.000-05:002007-10-17T19:09:01.244-05:00It's been a good week.........I had a good week staying OP and working out 6 days out of 7 so I feel confident in my ablity to continue on with my new exercise program. I've done a lot of reading about the Body For Life program and this is what I've been working on. I've discovered something about myself that shocks me the fact that I really do enjoy working out. I never thought I'd hear myself say that so it just goes to show me I am looking at this healthy lifestyle in a more positive way.<br /><br />This is the program I've been following:<br /><br />*Weight train intensely, three times per week on alternating days with cardio exercise three times per week. Make sure to hit your "high points" during your workout.<br /><br />Alternate training the major muscles of the upper and lower body.<br />Perform two exercises for each major muscle group of the upper body.<br /><br />Select one exercise and conduct five sets with it, starting with a set of 12 reps, then increasing the weight and doing 10 reps, adding more weight and doing 8 reps, adding more weight for 6 reps. Then reduce the weight and do 12 reps. Immediately perform another set of 12 reps for that muscle group using the second selected exercise.<br /><br />For each muscle group, rest for one minute between the first four sets. Then complete the final two sets with no rest in between, wait two minutes before moving on to your next muscle group, complete this pattern five times for the upper body training experience and four times for the lower body training experience.*<br /><br />So far this seems to be working well for me so hopefully my stamina and desire will stay strong.<br />I hope everyone has a fantastic week. I would like to leave you with a quote for the week.<br /><br />"Instead of giving myself reasons why I can't, I give myself reasons why I can."WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-35090018954872919142007-10-10T14:25:00.000-05:002007-10-10T20:46:20.643-05:00Re-thinking weight loss tactics................<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg147r5UalM-ArzT47TICLqWaIeBU9U3pzJgzS2RpvgXwZV3BlGdXTN1emzkvM59PYEkoSztWSSvy7Kn1uo165Ts3AnwOIz7-qPY7cRuNvt8blq9377T_-3XW61bF8SDHRyFx4yqob2y4c/s1600-h/168551269v3_240x240_Front.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5119791597837827538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg147r5UalM-ArzT47TICLqWaIeBU9U3pzJgzS2RpvgXwZV3BlGdXTN1emzkvM59PYEkoSztWSSvy7Kn1uo165Ts3AnwOIz7-qPY7cRuNvt8blq9377T_-3XW61bF8SDHRyFx4yqob2y4c/s320/168551269v3_240x240_Front.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />I took a long hard look at myself this week and decided it was time I take my daily focus away from the metal devil and begin focusing on what I can do to become healthier. Recently I've put way to much emphasis on the scale and I need to let that go. The scale is definitely a needed tool but not to the point its hindering the positive focus on my weight loss. During the summer I have walked daily for several miles and I continued to lose weight but lately my walking doesnt seem to be enough. With winter around the corner in Minnesota I needed another form of exercise. I made the decision to join the gym and begin working out on cardio one day and weight training the next.<br /><br />I moved forward with my decision and joined a gym very close to my house and have been there every day working out. I have discovered muscles I never knew existed in my body. I've always heard "no pain, no gain" so if this is true I shall look like one sexy Mama in about a week. LMAO<br /><br />I've been using the treadmill, elliptical, and stationary bike for an hour one day then several different weight lifting machines the next. Have you ladies ever tried the elliptical machine? It looked harmless enough to me so I figured no problem I've got this baby under control how hard can it be to walk and swing your arms. I mean c'mon I do it every day. Well, if you have never used this machine let me warn you now it gives you one heck of a workout. My legs were screaming at me and I wasnt able to stay on very long but I figured each time I used it I would stay on one extra minute until me and the machine came to an understanding. Not sure what that is yet but I'm sure gonna give it my best shot. LOL<br /><br />I hope you ladies are having a great week. I read a story this week that meant a lot to me so I wanted to share it with you wonderful ladies.<br /><br /><br />A SPECIAL BUTTERFLY STORY<br /><br />A man found a cocoon of a butterfly. One day a small opening appeared. He sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to force its body through that little hole. Then it seemed to stop making any progress. It appeared as if it had gotten as far as it had and it could go no further.<br /><br />Then the man decided to help the butterfly, so he took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bit of the cocoon. The butterfly then emerged easily. But it had a swollen body and small, shriveled wings. The man continued to watch the butterfly because he expected that, at any moment, the wings would enlarge and expand to be able to support the body, which would contract in time.<br /><br />Neither happened! In fact, the butterfly spent the rest of its life crawling around with a swollen body and shriveled wings. It never was able to fly.<br /><br />What the man in his kindness and haste did not understand was that the restricting cocoon and the struggle required for the butterfly to get through the tiny opening were God's way of forcing fluid from the body of the butterfly into its wings so that it would be ready for flight once it achieved its freedom from the cocoon.<br /><br />Sometimes struggles are exactly what we need in our life. If God allowed us to go through our life without any obstacles, it would cripple us. We would not be as strong as what we could have been. And we could never fly.WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-1543634911398632892007-10-03T21:04:00.000-05:002007-10-03T21:15:02.662-05:00Slow and steady will get me there..........<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEagpjyKU7pvtNsUL_wL1g08Yi9YMaCn1OiMBT8MnlTF0JBSsxJkrTKx1j7hdupsvxjFdqqkcugSSy-jtK5UNrvSTqemlPzqbSmUk5AKrjgLRecqkDL5ATWigR_L8geoFlqqutYE5nofE/s1600-h/turtle01.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5117297093717212594" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEagpjyKU7pvtNsUL_wL1g08Yi9YMaCn1OiMBT8MnlTF0JBSsxJkrTKx1j7hdupsvxjFdqqkcugSSy-jtK5UNrvSTqemlPzqbSmUk5AKrjgLRecqkDL5ATWigR_L8geoFlqqutYE5nofE/s200/turtle01.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Slow and steady wins the race and even though this is the speed I seem to be going I will succeed. I had weigh in today and lost 1lb which does make me very happy. I've been on a plateau for a while now but finally things are crawling along. <br /><br />It can be very frustrating as you all well know when the ole metal devil doesnt seem to move. I am learning that perseverance pays off in the end. I have to keep in mind that its much healthier for me to lose it slowly and I also need to remember this is a lifestyle change and not just a quick fix.<br /><br />I hope all of my good blogging friends are having a great week. Thanks for the support you give me. :)WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-46315621173811582902007-09-19T14:44:00.000-05:002007-09-19T14:53:02.831-05:00Frustrated and Disgusted..........I was up 1.4lbs today and I am very frustrated and disgusted with the whole weight loss issue. When I was on vacation I gained less then a pound and I knew there would be a gain and expected it in fact was pleased with only gaining a small amount. <br /><br />This week I exercised 5 out of 7 days even increasing my exercising by adding in running with my walking. I stayed OP all but one day which was my birthday and even then I watched my portions. I know the WW program like the back of my hand, I should since I've been on it for over a year. I know when I've blown it and will be the first to admit that fact but this week I did everything right yet gained. What is my body trying to tell me I just dont get it??<br /><br />I'm not giving up but I am going to reevaulate myself and see if there is something I may be doing wrong. I've come a long ways and I will not throw in the towel over this gain but it does make me so GRRRRRR!! Thanks for listening to me whine! You guys are wonderful. Hope you have a great day.WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-58069216481041836322007-09-12T13:24:00.000-05:002007-09-12T13:29:25.701-05:00No Change.........I had WI today and stayed exactly the same. It seems like these last few pounds are never going to come off. I know staying the same isn't a bad thing but I want to reach my goal and with the scale not moving the process is very slow. I refuse to give up though I am going to see this through all the way. Victory shall be mine! <br /><br />I don't know if its the time of year or what but almost everyone at WW's seems to have slowed down in the weight loss. Hopefully things will pick up soon. If anyone has any great suggestions to jump start my metabolism and weight loss once again please bring all ideas. <br /><br />I enjoy reading everyones blogs and it does encourage me to hear from you all. Have a great week and good luck to each of you. :)WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-25663430850908434482007-09-05T15:07:00.000-05:002007-09-05T15:12:57.494-05:00Reporting in even though its not a loss.....Well, I finally went back to WW after my two week vacation and even though it may sound weird I am happy to report a gain of .6. Why am I happy to report a gain you may ask, well let me tell you why. LOL<br /><br />I went on this vacation with the plans of enjoying myself and not thinking about points since my life has been point filled for over a year and I needed this break. When I stepped on the scale this morning I fully expected a gain of 3lbs+ so when it was much less that was a victory for me.<br /><br />I am back on schedule with making good choices and exercising so the focus is where it should be once again. I am planning on trying Core for a week and see how I do with that so wish me luck. I hope you all are having a great week. Take care!WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542798159207371625.post-44625038754155092602007-08-30T00:00:00.000-05:002007-08-30T00:08:00.856-05:00I'm Baaaaack!!I sure have missed everyone!! Vacation is fun but there is no place like home. We had a wonderful time in Orange Beach Alabama staying in a condo gulfside so it was beautiful. While we were there the popular boat races called "Thunder On The Gulf" were going on so it was fun to sit on our balcony with a cold drink in hand enjoying the festivities. <br /><br />I have to admit I wasnt OP because I had decided to enjoy my vacation and not worry about counting points. I haven't been to WW in two weeks but will return next week to face the music although I immediately went back OP upon returning home. Hopefully any weight gain I've had will be gone by then. I thought of everyone often and wondered how life was going for you. <br /><br />I missed the great support I get from everyone here so it feels good to be back again. I will try and catch up with everyone blogs over the next few days. Hope all is well with my friends. Have a good one!! :)WeightBGonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07495992035818832628noreply@blogger.com6