Random Thoughts...

Hi again...

2011-10-18T11:32:00.001-07:00

Well, I feel like I've fallen off the face of the earth!

I've been busy at times, been lazy at times... Maybe I'll be back. Don't even ask about food or exercise, because both have gone by the wayside! Yeah, you remember that last post about our cruise... yeah, that pretty much did me (actually both of us) in!

This has definitely been a crazy year... hoping to get back on track and back in line in all aspects.

We'll see.............

About time I get to that cruise…

2011-02-05T18:20:00.001-08:00

So, our cruise was wonderful! One of the best trips we’ve been on.

We left Belton around 5am on Saturday morning to get to Galveston around 10am to get settled and start boarding the ship. We were glad we got there when we did, because checking in/passports, etc. was a breeze. We finally got to start boarding the ship around noon. At that point we went and ate some lunch, then we were able to go to our room and get settled in. Before we set sail, we had to go to an emergency briefing in the case there is an emergency while we were on the ship. Then, off we went.

We went to the front of the ship and watched as we started off into the gulf. There were dolphins all around, and it was just a neat experience to be out there. We explored the ship some, and eventually made our way to dinner. The first night the dinner was wonderful. I had the vegetarian dish of pumpkin and squash pot pie… delicious! Hubby had a steak… then we had some yummy desserts. We didn’t do much the rest of the night but relax and sleep. It was after all vacation and time away from everything!

Second day was our first day at sea, we explored some more, did some activities around the ship, ate, napped, ate some more… that night was our “elegant” night for dinner. And it was lobster night! And steaks… so yummy! After our dinner we went to a comedy show and laughed hysterically. Definitely something we need to do more often!

Third day was our day to port in Progresso, Mexico. We decided to not do any excursions there, but we would at least get off the ship and do a little shopping. We were able to take a bus from the pier into the town and shop at the market there. We weren’t there long, and it was just crazy! We purchased a few things for the girls, then went back to the ship. After we were back on board, we took the time for some lunch, then we went to one of the decks and relaxed, and napped, until we took off again. Then we decided to head back to the room and get ready for dinner. Again, another great meal!

Fourth day was our port in Cozumel, Mexico. So excited about this day because we were going on a beach party/snorkeling excursion. We ate breakfast and then watched the ship port, then went on our way! The excursion was awesome! I had never been snorkeling, and it was absolutely fascinating to do in January in 80* water! We took lots of underwater pictures, and they had a photographer there and we purchased the photos he took of us. We partied on the boat, went to a beach and relaxed in hammocks, then partied on the boat back to where we started. It was so much fun! Since we were in Mexico, we decided to have some Mexican food… we found Carlos & Charlie’s and dubbed it Joe’s Crab Shack on crack! The atmosphere was so much fun, and just an extension of the fun we had on the party boat! Then we made our way back to the ship and got cleaned up and napped. Then on to dinner again… it felt like all we did was eat!!!

Fifth and final day, we were at sea all day long! This was really the only day we were ready to get off. There were some activities to do while on the ship, but I think we were ready to be home (to some extent!). We had a fun day, and fun night at dinner, then we went to another comedy show that night. We packed and made sure we had everything ready to leave and then crashed!

Once we were back in Galveston, it was time to get off the ship and make our way back home. We were ready to go home, but not ready to leave the relaxation that we experienced while on board… but we hadn’t talked to our girls in 5 days, and we were so ready to see them!

Overall, it was such a great experience, and so worth the money for what you get. The service from everyone was awesome! Can’t wait to do it again!

Snow day!

2011-02-04T17:01:00.001-08:00

We had snow last night...

and this evening it's melting :(

Owell... fun while it lasted!

Cruise!

2011-01-27T19:52:00.001-08:00

Well, we just got back from our 5 day cruise… OMG! It was the most awesome time! Definitely going back!

Here are a few snapshots, then I’ll run it down day by day in separate posts so they don’t get too long.

Honestly, I highly recommend going on a cruise. Amazing food, amazing service, amazing places… and an amazing price! Can’t beat it!

See, totally relaxed! Til next time ~

Getting “cruise ready”

2011-01-03T18:48:00.001-08:00

Well, this first “official” morning of 2011 has been great! I actually got out of bed by the second time my alarm went off (it’s usually MUCH more than that!), I walked on the treadmill, showered and got ready, made a lunch for Big B and myself, got the girls and myself out the door by 7:30! Huge accomplishment when you consider what the last couple of weeks have been like. I also had to pay tuitions, etc. for both day cares, so that took a few minutes, but I was at work and walking in the door at 8:00!!!

So, also started today by sending a text to 2 of the ladies I work with that I was bringing my stuff and going to start walking on my lunch breaks. They both did it too, so we all went for a brisk, 30 minute walk, then went back to the office and ate our healthy fare that we all brought in. Hoping this will last… but I did curse the person who brought kolaches to the office… screw her! Sooo not nice! Oh well, my breakfast was better!

Today marks 20 days until we leave for our cruise. I cannot wait!!! I swear it cannot get here fast enough! This week also marks our 10 year anniversary! Such a great trip to take after putting up with each other for so long (j/k)!

Ready for bed… it’s actually been a long day!

Til next time ~

Starting New Again

2010-12-08T19:33:00.001-08:00

Well, once again, it’s been awhile…

We just got a new computer… our other one was sooooooo slow that it drove us absolutely crazy! So our Christmas present to each other was the new Dell. Happy to have it! And I’m using the Windows Live Writer… new stuff here I’m not used to… we were shocked at how fast our DSL actually was!

Well, let’s see… last I left I was obsessed with my new phone. Still am, but not quite as bad anymore… but I still love it.

So, what new has changed since then…

Have totally sucked with the eating healthy and exercising! Still eating so-so, but exercising has gone out the window. I pretty much lost interest, and then I started getting pain in the area where my hernia was that I had surgery on last year, so I’m hoping it’s just nerves… don’t want another one, thank you! I’ve tried getting on the treadmill a few times, but then one day here and there is all I’ve done… it’s BAD! But, although I may have gained a few pounds back, I’m still in the same clothes and same size range. But, just need to get back at it so the extra pounds don’t start creeping back on.

Hubby and I will be celebrating our 10 year anniversary next month, so we have decided to go on a cruise… it’s the very first for both of us and we are so excited! I cannot wait! So, gotta get that beach body going?!?!?!

Alright, enough for tonight… til next time ~

uh oh...

2010-09-30T21:48:00.000-07:00

I just found out I can blog from my phone... and read blogs as well... need to look into the RSS thing because it makes the streaming much easier.

Wow, this is sad :)

Owell, good night!

Confession...

2010-09-30T20:13:00.001-07:00

I have a confession to make...

I am absolutely addicted to my new phone!

About a month ago, my phone broke. So back to my old phone for the time being... and I mean only by about two years, but you know those types of phones are near obsolete by now! Texting sucked... it was horrible! Well, we were up for renewal on our phone account, so we went about two weeks ago to get new phones... NOTE: I could not believe how difficult this decision was... smart phone, quick messaging phone, iPhone, etc.... the choices are almost mind boggling! Usually this is the type of thing we just do online, but this time we went into the store... thankfully we did this! And PS, the guy at the AT&T store in Temple absolutely ROCKED!!! Anyway, back to the story, we look around, play with the phones, and finally found the ones we liked... it's a touch screen phone by Samsung... quick messaging because we're not paying the extra for the "smart phones"... and we decided to get unlimited texting and they had a great deal for unlimited data, which hubby wasn't going to get, but wound up getting on his phone as well as mine (LOL!)... and that's a whole other story... and then an hour and a half later, we were done... new phone owners.

So, where does this get me now??? I can't put the damn thing down! I am ALWAYS on it... I can Facebook, I can email, I can text, I can talk, I can play... I can do almost anything on this phone! It's horrible... my Facebook posts and updates are way to "up-to-date" meaning that I can pretty much tell the world everything I'm doing... I've turned into one of those annoying "Gosh, does she doing anything?" type of people... oh the insanity! And the thing is, I can "text" my updates... seriously??? And I also figured out the whole "mobile upload" for pictures, so of course I'm doing that too.

It has to stop... someone may have to pry this thing out of my hands... I am addicted... do they have a "Cell Phone Anonymous" support group???

I'm laughing... but I'm also a little serious...

I HATE BREAST CANCER ---- #fightbreastcancer

2010-09-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

"Breast cancer will strike 1.3M women this year and kill almost 500,000, making it the leading cancer killer of women worldwide. #fightbreastcancer and kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month by visiting http://69-seconds.org, taking action and post this as a PUBLIC personal status update before 12A.M. tonight and you'll help break a Guinness World Record!" MY UPDATE TO FACEBOOK TODAY... about 500 times!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month... I am going to be wearing my pink and showing my support and spreading the word.

I have a friend from college that just found out she has breast cancer and today was her first chemo treatment... she is 32! She's my age! I'm having a very hard time with this, in terms of her being so young, being a wife, being a mom... I lost a friend last year to cancer... I'm not ready to lose another. I pray for her, and I know she has the strength to get through this... but I HATE CANCER!

Hello????

2010-09-30T20:06:00.000-07:00

Yeah, this thing has pretty much gone to the wayside...

Not even sure anyone keeps up with this... obviously I haven't. School is back, other things are on my mind... so forgive me!

New posts coming...

The weekend...

2010-09-06T20:37:00.000-07:00

So, the weekend turned out really good... started out like this:

Saturday - Finally drag our butts out of bed, then I proceeded to talk to hubby for quite some time... he realizes I am actually procrastinating getting out of the house. Of course, I had not packed yet... so, proceeded to pack and get ready. Go figure that hubby leaves the house to go chat with the neighbors... I almost had to run outside, not quite dressed, because of course this is when the girls were getting fussy and fighting... go figure, all when you're trying to leave! After about 2 hours past the time we were wanting to leave, we were out the door... only to have to stop at the grocery store to get the few things we needed for the trip and something to eat.

We get there, to the farm, that we haven't been to in years... people I mean like at least 6 or 7 years! Craziness... I miss this beautiful, wonderful country life! Whoa, pure awesomeness... I absolutely love the country! My cousins were doing some farm work, my uncle was there, my sister and her family... and then it was us... hello again! Greetings, and then soon my parents got there... then my aunt... quite a family reunion right there. Wound up visiting with everyone and catching grasshoppers with the girls. It was fun! Then it was time for some dinner in town, back to the house, visited some more, finally got the girls down, then it was a night for us.

Sunday - I got up to walk/run (AWESOME MORNING!!!), walked outside and it was actually cool for once! It was beautiful and I thought to myself "I just wish I could do this every morning". I walked up to my aunt and uncles house (where my parents were staying) hoping that I would find coffee... and they didn't have any! Owell, opted for what we had... diet soda... coffee would have been so much better, but there was no coffee or maker where we were staying! But I got in about 2 miles, give or take. Seriously, country runs without cars and traffic, would make my life so much better... granted I would have to watch out for the wild hogs and coyotes! I guess there is some give or take there, right??? Once back, breakfast time and then had to get ready and get the kids ready. Off to church and then the reunion followed.

It was great to see family I haven't seen in quite some time, and especially great to rekindle the relationship with my sister. It's been awkward for many years now, so I am hoping we can get past all of that and move on... such a weight off my shoulders! Plus, Big B and my niece had such a great time together, I would love to see them have a good relationship. So, we'll see how it all works out!

Til next time ~

Reconnecting...

2010-08-31T19:58:00.001-07:00

So, this past weekend, my mom and my sister called...

My mom mentioned a family reunion this next weekend. Then my sister called to come by while she was traveling through town. Unfortunately we were out, but I had a chance to talk to her.

I see a change of events...

Hubby is actually off this weekend (I don't think that has ever happened!) so we're making the trip west and going to a reunion. Did I mention that I haven't seen most of that part of the family since at least 2006? Maybe even before that? The last reunion we went to was when Big B was a toddler.

I'm nervous and excited at the same time. Sounds funny huh? Well, we'll see what the weekend brings!

Til next time~

Early riser...

2010-08-18T09:54:00.000-07:00

2 days in a row and I have gotten up at 5am! Hopefully it will continue... not an easy thing for this night owl! So here is my goal for this school year - get up at 5am, work out, eat breakfast, get ready, have the kids ready/feed them, leave the house no later than 7:20am, get to work on time, work, get kids, do what needs to be done in the evenings, get kids in bed 9pm at the latest, get us in bed by 10pm - so hoping I can do this!

Granted, I'll just need plenty of this...

All summer, and a while before that, I have been crawling out of bed around 6:30 and in an absolute frenzy getting out of the house... and then I'm 10-15 minutes late for work... it's become a habit, and NOT a good one. So, I'm out to change that. And, my hubby informed me the other day that my late night treadmilling keeps him awake... and with his commute, he doesn't need to be tired every morning when he wakes up... so I'm trying to go to bed when he does and do the workouts after he's already awake. Seems to be working so far. We'll see... I'm hopeful!

Til next time ~

It's been a while...

2010-08-02T19:37:00.001-07:00

Wow, it's been a while since I've posted... but I've had important things going on in life... such as...

ME ON VACATION!!!! and...

MUCH NEEDED FAMILY TIME!!!!

During the summer we've had our alone time with each of the girls... they've each had their time spent with the grand's which was enjoyed by all. Of course the normal daily life has been happening too, but July was one busy month!

So here's the breakdown...
We waited and waited and planned and planned for vacation!
My hubby found out he has high blood pressure!
We went on our family vacation to San Antonio and had a blast!
The girls and dad went to the grand's while I went to the RIVER!
Saw very interesting things (that I hope to never see again) on said river!
My hubby got a huge promotion and found out while on vacation!
My hubby then had to start new position 1 day after he accepted it!
It's in another city and he is commuting for the first time ever in his life... 80 miles a day total!
I hosted a baby shower for a friend at my house and realized I haven't been keeping house as well as I should!
We bought a new commuter car, traded in one of his trucks, and now are trying to sell one of our play cars!
The girls are now sharing a room and we got furniture for it!
The other room is now our guest room / play room!
My "baby" turns 9 years old tomorrow!
My hubby's blood pressure is a little better after a month on medicine, and he found out he's lost about 30 pounds within the last year or so!
My job is stressful right now!
I feel like my head is about to spin off at times!
I've hit the wine bottle a few too many times lately and don't want to go there again!
My eating has been terrible overall and I have not been working out the last 2 weeks!
I really wish I could go back on vacation!

So, that's been my month of July... can you say it may have caused just a bit of depression?!?! Lots of highs and lows. I should totally be doing this more often (typing blog) because it seems to de-stress me... gets me to open up and express feelings I might otherwise bottle up.

Alright, enough tonight though! Have things I need to be doing!

Til next time ~

It's been a year!

2010-07-16T10:22:00.001-07:00

Officially it will be a year tomorrow since I started my weight loss journey. I started off at 204 in April, 200.5 in July when I actually started to try and lose weight, and now at 165 (give or take)! I have gone from a size 18 pants and 2XL shirts to size 12 pants and L shirts. You have no idea how excited I am about this transformation! It's been hard, there is no doubt about that, but just making changes in my life and how I take care of myself have made such a huge impact. Not only do I look better, but I feel better. I still have my "I feel fat days" but overall there is nothing better than seeing (and feeling) how far I've come.

How did I do it all?? Quit drinking regular sodas, switched to diet sodas (if any at all), started drinking tons of water, quit drinking alcohol as much (it's very little to none now), stopped eating fast food (still do every now and then, but much less than before), don't eat out at restaurants as often, cook almost every meal, eat a good breakfast, eat tons of veggies and fruits, started eating lots more whole grains, cut out alot of junk food, started eating more "clean" and "natural", eat meals and snacks, etc.... and started working out... walking at first, then running, and now running/walking with strength training. Whooo... it's been a busy year.

I plan to continue, as I have more weight to lose to get to a healthier point, but I feel like I've done very well so far.

Til next time ~

Good times...

2010-07-15T19:43:00.000-07:00

Just got back from vacation part 1! It was so much fun and the time away was needed something awful! Between work (mine and hubby's), family, marriage, and the everyday life... we were beyond stressed. Almost a week away was just what we needed. Part 2 for me starts tomorrow for my trip to the river! I cannot wait. It's basically part 2 for the kids cause they get to go to the grands, and part 2 for the hubby because he gets some time with his dad to work on the car. We're all going to have a great time!

So, that's it for now, I'm having a blast!

Vacation!

2010-07-09T20:20:00.000-07:00

We are finally on VACATION! It feels like it's been forever since I've had some time off from work. I am in need of time away, that's for sure! My hubby is on vacation too, so it's a great time for all of us right now. I actually came home dancing and singing "we're on vacation" and the girls got a kick out of that!

Well this week I've been walking and running my many miles each evening. A friend let me borrow the "Army Wives" DVD's and they are awesome! Finally understand more of the dynamics of the show... about to go finish one of the episodes while I walk and run tonight.

I also did some shopping last weekend and finally bought some shorts that are... size 12! Granted, I'm right at that point of "yes I'm a 12, but still almost a 14" but I finally got there! I'm happy that my 14's are starting to become too big on me... it's about time!

So this weekend going to shop just a bit more and get ready for our fun! So glad for this family time!

Til next time ~

The 4th...

2010-07-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

The Belton parade was great this year. It rained a little beforehand, but it was only about 80 degrees outside and the rain held off during the actual parade. Thankfully this year my hubby drove the truck (for HEB) w/ the trailer attached. So, our family all rode in the truck! Much better than sitting on the trailer in the elements (plus I have a huge paranoia about my kids or myself falling off the trailer and being run over - crazy, I know!).

Tonight is the final night of the rodeo, and then tomorrow we'll go watch fireworks in Temple... too bad hubby has to work then, but I think a friend of ours will be joining me and the girls.

Then Monday I have the day off!!! So glad to have a day at home w/ my girls for a change. Not sure what we'll do, but I definitely need to plan something... cannot just sit around the house all day!

Will post later... til next time ~

Sleeping...

2010-06-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

This weekend I have gotten some much needed rest! Saturday morning I slept in and had a 3 hour nap with my toddler, and this morning most of us slept in. My father-in-law is here playing cars with my hubby, so he was the one up bright and early! Big B got up only about 30 minutes before the rest of us. So far the weekend has been nice and relaxing... I've needed that so much!

I got a good walk/run in last night on the treadmill. My plan is to do a few miles a day for the next 2 weeks before we go on vacation. And thankfully the hotel we are staying at on vacation has a workout room, so besides walking around, I can still get some exercise in. Cannot wait for vacation!

We're about to enjoy a big country breakfast... eggs, pancakes, bacon, fruit, and coffee... mmmmm, yummy!

Til next time ~

Better day...

2010-06-22T20:59:00.001-07:00

So today was much better overall. Although I woke up feeling pretty crappy, I got over it. The work day was crazy busy... ugh, can't wait til vacation!... but it was over in a flash.

This morning I had my favorite oats *PUMPKIN OATS* made with steel cut oats and all the other crap I throw in there! It was yummy... plus some Texas pecan coffee... equally delicious! We had another birthday at work, but I opted out of the tacos; I'm pretty sure I've had enough of those for awhile now.

I noshed on some trail mix for morning snack... I also packed all of my meals last night for a change! So, no racing home to eat or running to get something on a day that got crazy.

For lunch I had a microwave-baked sweet potato with vegetarian baked beans over it and a hugh-jass salad. I needed some bean-o this afternoon... lots of veggies together, but it was an awesome meal.

I packed some grapes and a cheese stick for snack, but opted to eat those on the way home... I was full all afternoon. I drank about 3 - 20 oz jugs of water over the course of the day... I think I was a little thirsty too!

This afternoon I was in the mood to move! So, as soon as I got home, the hubby took the girls out to play in the water and I walked/ran 2 miles. Felt so much better and so full of energy!

For dinner the hubby had thawed out some pork chops, but we didn't know what to do... something quick though. I had gotten the pork chops and some apples for a recipe I was going to do and had not gotten around to it... so I improvised tonight; cranked the oven to 400*, threw the chops and some sliced apples (I cored them with a orange corer and sliced across) onto a pan, added some olive oil to coat the chops and some awesome tasting rub, added a couple of dashes of cinnamon to the apples and popped it in the oven. On the side we had brown rice and some steamed broccoli. It only took about 30 minutes total, and it turned out great. I love that I can cook like that now! We also had a couple of cookies for dessert! :)

Then I did a little strength training with a resistance band after the girls went to bed. Not sure where all of this energy came from, but hoping it will last. I'm sure my healthy eating all day helped alot!

Til next time ~

It's summer...

2010-06-21T20:51:00.000-07:00

In Texas, and it's freakin' HOT! Today was just almost 100*! So we only have about 4 more months of this, then it will turn freakishly cold. Funny how we had the coldest winter possible this year, and I felt great almost all winter, and now it's hot and today I feel like I'm coming down with a serious cold... wonder what that's all about? I started feeling horrible today at work, and I could just tell something was coming on... so, hopefully a little extra sleep tonight and some serious power food tomorrow will help!

Today was so, so on the food front. Doing the shake thing; had 2 today - one for breakfast with a banana and coffee, then one for lunch with a carrot, peach, and cheese stick (that I had planned for my morning snack but my work meeting lasted forever!). Then for my afternoon snack I had some trail mix and a plumcot (apricot and plum cross and it was purple on the inside --- awesome!). Then my in-laws were passing through on their way back home this evening, so they had dinner with us... I had not planned to cook and just have an easy evening since my hubby was going to work late, but he was able to leave a little early so we all went out. I was starving by this point (the shakes are not much to brag about!) so I wanted some "stick-to-your-ribs" food, so we went to Jalisco's... where I had chicken fried steak. Don't judge, although it's a Mexican food joint, they have a decent CFS!

Once home I had to get the girl's lunches ready, and I packed myself a very healthy lunch tomorrow --- no shakes! --- and prepared some oatmeal that I can cook quickly in the morning. For lunch and snacks I've packed a salad (veg & fruit mix), sweet potato, vegetarian baked beans, red grapes, trail mix, and a cheese stick. Hoping tomorrow's food will seriously make me feel better... then I'll have a good dinner as well.

Hoping to also get a workout in sometime tomorrow. I was able to get a few in during the last couple of days, but still slacking some on that end! Don't know what's up with my funk... I just need to get us all to the walking trail... maybe some fresh air in the evenings will help us all.

Til next time ~

Rough weekend...

2010-06-20T19:44:00.000-07:00

I'm in a funk; have been for a few days now. UGH, I hate funks!

We celebrated Father's Day for my hubby yesterday since he was working today. We got started late, had a late lunch, little bit of shopping, and then YoYo's. Lil B was getting extremely cranky since she had not had a nap, so we left from our outing. Then we went to look at a house that I have fallen in love with!

I work for a home builder, and there are many plans that I like, but this new plan we just started building is awesome! It's 2 story, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom and has everything that I would want in a house. It pretty much takes this and that from each plan that I like and puts it into one. So, I now have a notebook going of the things that I like, the changes we would make to the plan to make it our own, and just waiting for the day that we finally decide to build. I will so need the help of Karen (our plan designer) and Greg (our interior designer)!

Hopefully that will be within the year maybe? I'm so ready to "settle down" whether it be here or somewhere else. It's hard to believe we've been here a little over 4 years and sometimes I just don't feel settled. I think that's part of what has put me in a funk this week; my hubby and I have been discussing that a lot lately. Wow, blog about it and figure it out!?!

So many things to get done tonight before bed...

Til next time ~

"Dieting"

2010-06-18T10:43:00.001-07:00

I can't believe I'm doing this, but I am "dieting". UGH! I just have to get these pounds off for good. My weight was at the lowest just a few weeks ago at 163, but now it's back up to 168... 5 pounds people! Maybe I was having a good week at 163? Maybe I just got lucky? But, OMG! I cannot stand this.

So, here's my plan to get me jump-started, then I'll just go back to eating healthy. I will be doing a "shake"/meal replacement diet. I plan to add at least a fruit or veggie to it with my breakfasts and lunches, but then dinner will be something light. Planning for at least a couple of weeks on this, so easy dinners for me during this time. Plus lots of exercise!

Lately, and I guess cause I was doing so well, I just started eating whatever and not really watching anything; plus lacking on exercise. During these last couple of weeks, I've also had some "negative" influences that I think have gotten me down. The influences I'm talking about is people's talk. It's hard to be positive and productive in weight loss when others bring you down. I'm really surprised by that, but it happens.

So, today so far has been this:
Shake & banana & coffee - breakfast
Cheese stick & water - morning snack
Plans for the remainder of the day:
Shake & sugar snap peas & cherries - lunch
Dried fruit/nut trail mix & orange - afternoon snack
Lots more water and maybe a diet soda in the afternoon
Salad w/ lots of veggies & some sort of protein - dinner
Today should all total around 1200 or less calories.

Weight loss is hard, finding the balance is hard, sticking to it can be hard; but in the end, it's all worth it, but it's also long term and life changing!

Til next time ~

New Places...

2010-06-16T20:45:00.000-07:00

Today was decent again... almost a complete repeat, except dinner (actually dinner may have blown it)!

Breakfast, same oats as yesterday, except no blackberries... because I'm out! I so need to make a trip to the grocery store.

Lunch, leftovers from last night of the pasta and the rest of the raw carrot nuked a little. Plus a handful of trail mix and an orange.

Dinner... well that was new! I hadn't thawed anything out, and the hubby had mentioned taking me to this new place he had heard about. It's called "Wine and Dine" and it's in Morgan's Point, literally in the back of a gas station! Of course we were concerned about that at first, but we heard it was good (from reputable sources - friends that know good food) so we were going to give it a whirl. We walked in and the set up was nice. We got our drinks and looked over the menu. Good choices, not too overwhelming, but the best part was not one meal was over $10! Seriously... nothing, most of it averaged about $8 total. We were stoked. The waitress told us they did not have a kid's menu (we had our 2 year old with us) but that they would make something if we wanted it (awesome! score!). There were not alot of people there, but one large group just raved and raved over the food. We put in our order (hard choice because everything sounded so good) and the waitress brought out some biscuits. They were garlic cheddar! OMG - it's like the kind that Red Lobster has, but these were handmade and fresh and OMG DELISH!!! I could have eaten my weight in those things! So, then our meals got there... WOW... the thing that impressed me was the presentation... beautiful! We had ordered Lil B a grilled cheese (they only had hamburger buns) and french fries, and even that was presented so nicely on the plate; handmade fries that were so good, and the cheese on the sandwich was not your normal "processed cheese product" thank goodness! I ordered the blackened tilapia that came with rice pilaf and sauteed spinach... awesome! The hubby ordered the cheddar cheese steak which was a chop steak w/ onions, cheese, etc. and it came with cheese potato mash and green beans... awesome again! We had another round of the biscuits (they came as we were finishing our meals, but that was fine by us!) and savored every bit! Wow, I am truly impressed and will be going there again for sure! They are in the process of building a new restaurant, and I'm sure it will be more popular with a better location. They had an actual chef that we heard came from a pretty upscale restaurant in downtown Temple, so he knew what he was doing. And our total for the meals - less than $25 for 3 of us. I can handle a gourmet meal for that amount!

Then we went and looked at a couple of houses that my company builds... my hubby and I can almost never agree on anything, so it will be awhile before we try to build! But, I was able to really show him the things that are most important to me for when we do build.

Lazy night now since it got so late... going to veg for a bit then hit the hay.

Til next time ~

Let's see...

2010-06-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

Today was not too bad. About to clean the kitchen and do some time on the treadmill, but overall eating was good. No pics (I so need to do that every now and then!), so I'll just tell you what I had...

Breakfast - my fav again; pumpkin oats - 1/4c (each) oats, water, milk, canned pumpkin, greek yogurt; 1 whole very ripe banana, 2tbsp flax seed (ground and whole); topped w/ blackberries, 1tbsp peanut butter, tad granola; also had coffee (milk and sweetener). Total calories was about 450.

Lunch - didn't have time to go home (I do so much better when I plan my meals for work days) so I ran (drove) down to Subway and had a 6-inch turkey sub w/ cheese, veggies, and a tad southwest chipotle sauce; also had some baked potato chips and diet soda. Total calories was about 450.

Snack - I didn't technically plan a snack today, but right before I cooked dinner I had about 2 handfuls of trail mix (w/ m & m's - chocolate fix!). Total calories about 200.

Dinner - planned tonight for pasta jambalaya from my "Simple Suppers" cookbook. I cooked it once awhile back and decided to try it again. It consisted of ww penne pasta, turkey sausage, black beans, corn, rotel, onions, bell peppers, garlic, topped w/ cheese. It's all mixed of course, simple, and really yummy! I also had a side of salad greens w/ raw carrot dressed in EVOO and blanched broccoli. Total calories was close to 500.

Daily calorie total was 1600... not bad for my lack of planning today, and overall I ate very healthful!

I have noticed that I did much better when I planned my meals and tracked what I ate... granted I also drove myself a little crazy! But when I'm conscious about it, I'm less likely to eat a lot of junk.

So on to the rest of the week. Til next time ~

5 more weeks!

2010-06-14T21:24:00.000-07:00

So guess what? I have 5 more weeks til my trip with these wonderful ladies (plus I think a few more)...

And what have I been doing these last 2 weeks? Nothing productive and eating crap and drinking wine! So tonight I laced up my sneaks and I got on the treadmill... walked and ran about 2.6 (something) miles and burned 412 calories. Granted today I only ate 2 breakfast tacos (traditional birthday breakfast around my office - Happy B-Day Drew!) for breakfast and lunch and had McAlister's for dinner... not too great to be starting back out.

Back at it tomorrow, starting with some oats and coffee for breakfast, then I need to think about something healthy for lunch and dinner. As much as I don't want to, I need a jump start, so I'm going to the store tomorrow to get some shakes... I will probably regret this because the last time I had these I got CRANKY but I also got past a plateau, and at this point I need all the help I can get! Plus I need to get out my "handy-dandy-notebook" and start tracking my food again. It helps!

I cannot believe I'm coming up on my one year of weight loss! I've come a long way, but I still have much more to go. It's alot of work, and at many times frustrating (as I've come across lately), but so totally worth it!

Come on July... BRING.IT.ON!

Til next time ~

The 10th day...

2010-06-10T20:18:00.000-07:00

It is already the 10th day of June! This year is flying by so fast!

Big events happened last week... my baby girl turned 2! She is funny in so many ways, and just such a joy. We really enjoyed celebrating her special day.

Other than work and life, that's been about all that's going on around here. This week has been lazy and no workouts and eating so-so, but it's a needed break. Next week... that is my goal to get back at it and have my hubby join along.

So, just thought I'd at least post something for June... being that we now only have 20 (or 21?) more days left.

Til next time ~

Frustration...

2010-05-29T21:03:00.000-07:00

So I went shopping this evening. Old Navy was having a sale on some shirts, so I figured I'd go pick some up and get some stuff for the girls. There were great sales galore! Grabbed a few things and made my way to the fitting room. Tried on some of the shirts, decided just on a few, then tried on the shorts and jeans I picked up. Utter and complete frustration! I've been in a size 14 for about 5 months now, which is fine, but they are now too big (good thing), so I try on some size 12 and they are too small (bad thing). Well, they fit, but the pair of jeans I tried on sit pretty low on my hips so they just didn't look that great. I gave up... lose a few more pounds, then try again. The pants I have fit fine for now!

Granted it's much better to be in a size 14, almost 12, than it is being in an 18 like I was when I started losing weight, but this is the most frustrating part of it all. The plateaus suck! And so does the "size plateau". I'm just ready to get there... I need some instant gratification in my life!

So, I'll go sulk, and get on with it. New day tomorrow...

Til next time ~

SATC2... RECAP!

2010-05-28T16:45:00.000-07:00

So totally enjoyed the movie. Every bit of it! This movie seemed a bit "riskier" in terms that there was a lot more sex and a lot more language... and totally fine by me! LOL! I'm the worst trash/sailor talker there is, so it doesn't ever offend me. My favorite... "I'm fifty f-ing two"... hilarious!

It gave me the same feelings of the last movie... sad, happy, crying, laughing, joyful... the list could go on. I LOVE movies that make me feel so many emotions at one time! I so wish I had a group of friends like that... maybe it makes me hopeful? I think people like that (if they truly exist) are lucky.

Go see the movie if you haven't already... totally worth it!

SATC2... YEAH!!!!!

2010-05-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

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OMG - I am so freakin' excited about "Sex and the City 2" coming out tomorrow! I love the series and I love the first movie, so I can't wait to see this movie. Planning to see it with the girls I saw the first one with! Fun night!

Any thoughts on the show?

Mine... it's just great! This is one that I can get lost in, and it's not stupid reality TV... it's an actual show you can enjoy for 30 minutes and then go on.

I'll post tomorrow with my thoughts of the movie...

Just keeping on...

2010-05-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

I will admit, sometimes losing weight is not easy. I guess that's a given or everyone in the world would be skinny and there wouldn't be a "fat epidemic". I've actually been amazed at my will power though, and the fact that I have stuck with it this long. Although the weight is coming off (slowly I might add), I haven't once decided to throw in the towel like I have done so many times before. My whole lifestyle and attitude towards food has changed. It's not like I had a bad attitude about food, I just enjoyed it. And I still enjoy it, but now it's just different things. Granted, I fall off the wagon and have something fried, or Mexican food, or pizza... but I get right back up and keep on going. One meal is not going to determine my staying power for leading a healthy(er) lifestyle.

And I actually work out now! I started out walking. I would try to run, and that lasted a whole 15 - 30 seconds my friends. So I found the Wii, and it was good to me for awhile. Then I found races... oh my, maybe this was not a good thing to find. It started with a simple 5k, which I walked pushing a stroller and my 8 year old by my side. Then it went on to the 10k with my hubby and thousands (literally) of others... the crowd was exciting! Then of course I got the treadmill and started working on running, which I can now go minutes(!) instead of seconds. I am now running a majority of a mile. So, I have found a new race, and it's at night... how cool does that sound?!?! It's summer in HOT TEXAS and the thought of running without the sun beaming down is just awesome. They are having a half marathon and 5k; not sure I'm actually ready for 13 miles, but 3 I KNOW I can handle. So, just started tonight getting ready for that considering it's only in a few weeks. Oh, and I'm already planning races later in the year, plus next year as well. I have found a new love for running and walking!

I know the rest of this weight will come off. I feel I may have set my expectations too high at the beginning, but the reality is that I'm no longer 18 or 20. I've had 2 kids and my body has changed drastically in the last 10 years. And that's OK. I look better, I feel better, and I'm healthy. What more could I ask for? And it's also changing my families attitudes about living a healthy lifestyle as well. It doesn't get any better.

Til next time ~

Finally going down... again...

2010-05-21T06:36:00.001-07:00

I normally do my "official" weight check every Friday. It's typically after I've had some coffee or water, sometimes even breakfast, so I don't feel that I get an "accurate" weight... because those things definitely affect it! Well, today, I had nothing before my weight check and guess what??? I'm down about 3 pounds since last week! I'm now at 163 pounds!!! Total weight loss to date (start date 7/17/09) is 37.5 pounds... since April of last year it's actually 41 pounds! Finally! Now if it'll just stay that way and keep going down. Positive thoughts!!!!

Til next time ~

Work, work, work

2010-05-19T21:06:00.000-07:00

You know, I never post much about work. We've just recently had a lot of changes... all for the better... so it's been a little chaotic. Last year we had some downsizing due to the market and just the overall economy, so of course there was a lot of change then and with it a lot of stress. Well, then some personnel changes happened, and things got better, but we were all still pretty overloaded, and then now we're doing well and forging ahead and adding some more personnel. So, job duties are being redistributed once again! But in a good way which I think will make my work life so much better. I really have the mantra that "I work to live, not live to work". Yes, I like my job and I love my paycheck, but my life does not revolve around it... it revolves around my hubby and my girls, period. So, that being said, these changes will make work life less stressful (I hope).

I haven't been walking on my lunch breaks since the weather has turned so hot... it's like 85* by lunch time here! Well, one of the ladies I work with asked if I would walk with her a few times a week. I told her we could try it and see how it goes. Today was the first day and it pretty much sucked! If it wasn't hot, I don't think I would have cared, but the trail we chose took a long time, it was after 1pm and hot, and I had to go back to work and change back into my work clothes while sweaty. Not pleasant, and my pace was a little (hm, hm actually alot!) faster than hers, so I had to slow down quite a bit. Maybe we won't do the same trail if we do this again, and take an earlier time to walk... who knows, we may wait til it's cooler again. Maybe she'll change her mind :)!

But, still walking and running on the treadmill at home. I'm also trying to incorporate some other exercises, such as different videos with weights and a resistance band, but not sure how I'm liking those yet. Kind of boring, so I hope it's something I can stick with. If only I had the time for a class or something, maybe that would make it nice! I would love to try Zumba, or something of the sort.

Well, it's been a long day... see ya next time!

Note to self...

2010-05-10T21:08:00.001-07:00

Maybe funny movies on the whole treadmill/dvd player setup are not the best! Tonight I watched "Wild Hogs" and laughed my ass off! I have always thought the movie was hilarious, but when you get those uncontrollable belly laughs... not good while you're running or walking fast! OMG - HILARIOUS! Just saying... but I got in 3.5 miles, I'm finally running for longer time frames, and I burned (per the TM) a little over 500 calories... not bad if I do say so myself. OK, just quick post tonight (again)... I'm off to finish re-hydrating and going to bed. GOOD NIGHT!

Blah, blah, blah...

2010-05-10T18:45:00.000-07:00

So, this blog thing is actually kind of hard to keep up with. I do good and write alot for a while, then I don't write for a week or so... well, I think it's been almost two weeks?? I think there is just not much to say... how do people do this all the time or for a living?? Maybe they have more time, maybe they don't have outside jobs and can just do this, maybe they're better organized... because I don't photograph everything... that would take even more time(!)... and I don't detail it all... oh, wouldn't it be nice to have the life of a real time blogger... who knows, don't you think they would get tired of it, and just say "I don't want to do this today!". So, what is this rant all about... I have no idea, but just know, I'm not always good at this and it's more for me anyway... it's my journal of sorts. So whah... now I'm off to run on my treadmill... and PS, one blog I read called it a dreadmill... um, it's like the best thing in "fitness" that has happened in this house... I finally have a way to exercise so much more consistently without always throwing a video in or the Wii... I finally have a way to run! Without a stroller or having to go slow enough for an 8 year old... I can finally run... and I'm excited about that... that I can run... weird?!?!? So, goodnight all!

Busy day...

2010-05-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

I so meant to get up early and run on the treadmill, but I just couldn't get out of bed! So many weekend mornings like that! But, I had a lot to do, so it wasn't the most efficient thing to do with my time.

First off, breakfast and got ready to leave for the "Turtle Festival" in Belton. My breakfast was OK... I made a "personal" breakfast casserole (since the hubby doesn't care for eggs); it had eggs, milk, English muffin, goat cheese, turkey sausage, and spinach... while it was good, towards the end it was just kinda blah. I probably understand why my hubby doesn't like breakfast casseroles because of the soggy bread... think that's what did it!

The "Turtle Fest" was fun (plus I parked and walked about 1 mile to and from the event), we got to hang out with hubby (he was working out there for HEB) and we had lunch while there... I just had a sausage wrap, but it lasted for awhile. Then went home to finish cleaning! Company was on the way.

Our friend Josh and his little girl Leah got to the house, and we played inside with the girls, took them outside, came back in... we played and played. Then we had dinner, which by request of Josh, were steaks! Yummy! But the hubby got HUGE steaks (New York strips) and we all wound up splitting them. Between me, hubby, Josh, and Big B, we all ate 1.5 steaks and the other 1.5 is in the fridge for leftovers! We also had baked potatoes, some salad, and JALAPENO POPPERS (my fav! - fresh jalapeno peppers, cream cheese, wrapped in bacon). The meal was excellent... I can hardly remember the last time the hubby grilled steak... it's been awhile!

After dinner, we let the girls play some, then it was bath time for all of them and off to bed. They are now sleeping soundly and the boys are out in the garage playing with their boys toys! I miss Josh being around and glad he's here to visit! And Leah is awesome! I so wish Stephanie was here... I miss her so much.

Maybe I'll get a run in tomorrow sometime. We have plans to go to the Air Show in Temple, so I'm sure I'll have lots of "bad goodies" while there! Til next time ~

Tonight, tonight, tonight...

2010-04-28T21:46:00.000-07:00

We had pizza for dinner... enough said.

I'm sorry, but no matter what, I refuse to give up pizza every now and then. It's just something I gotta have! I usually eat way too much, but I watched everything else today and kept it in check, so it's OK.

We attempted to walk at the park tonight, but Lil B didn't want to ride in her stroller, so we all just kept to her little bitty pace. She ran after Big B (and of course we held our breath praying she wouldn't fall!), and stopped and drank milk, and walked, and ran... you get the picture. Our 1 lap took awhile. Plus, we saw goats... had to stop and look at the goats. And we taught Big B how to "eat" honeysuckle... the hubby and I went crazy over that cause it's something we did as kids... sometimes I love to "revert" back with my own kids!

And surely grocery shopping counts for something right? I mean come on, you're walking all over the place, you're lifting, you're reaching and bending... certainly that has to count for some sort of "work-out"... well I'll just say it does.

Speaking of groceries, need to go put them away!

Til next time ~

Catching my breath...

2010-04-27T20:39:00.000-07:00

And sipping on some water! Whoo, what a workout.

I have to say, I LOVE having a treadmill. Take tonight for instance... the hubby is at work and the kids are with me; we had to have an early night, so a walk at the park was out of the question. So, what do you do? You've got to work out at home.

So, that being said, I also love my new setup with the DVD player... what a freaking life saver that was! I get so entranced on distance, time, etc. that it's hard to just focus on the workout. Honestly, the movie just allows me to pace myself and "enjoy" the run!

Tonight's totals - and I'm really trying hard to get in a "warm-up" and "cool-down", so I have to get the "race mentality" out of my head. Walked and ran for 35 minutes, 2.20 miles, almost 9 laps (quarter mile), burned 359 calories.

Total in food - 1365 (not sure about a snack?)
Total out exercise - 359

Now, going to burn some more calories washing dishes and getting stuff ready for the morning. And I am laughing at that!

Good night all...

Rollin, rollin, rollin...

2010-04-27T18:55:00.000-07:00

Just rolling with the punches today. Not bad day, not awesome day, but average... that's OK. Really ready for the hubby to find out what's going on at his work... hopefully we'll see on Thursday... hmmm? Nothing bad though, I'm just nosy!

Have not worked out yet, but did wake up at 5:30 this morning! Mainly because I had to be ready when Big B got up and help her with her breakfast and make her lunch, etc. She is taking the TAKS this week, so we're making sure she's well rested and well fed. She had some oatmeal this morning... POWER FOOD!

My breakfast was also oats, but I have to say not my favorite today. This mornings mix was 1/2 c rolled oats, 1 c water, an apple chopped, dash of walnuts, small box of raisins, 1/3 c Greek yogurt (maybe about 1/2 actually because I was at the end of the container), topped w/ granola and peanut butter. Lots of cinnamon, dash of vanilla and salt in the mix. With coffee, calorie total was about 470.

Lunch today was once again leftovers... just something different. We have more leftovers than normal, but I'm just trying to finish them. Typically my hubby won't eat them. I don't keep them for long, but I'll still eat them... hate to waste food! I had a small pork chop (grilled from the other night), 1/2 c mashed potatoes, and not quite enough spinach (love spinach), plus some grapes. Drank a diet Hansen's soda and had a dark chocolate. Total calories were about 330.

Didn't snack today.... didn't have time!

Dinner tonight was similar to last night... OYO. The hubby's at work, but hey it's a night I can eat whatever I like that he doesn't care for. It's a total "win-win"! I had another quesadilla, this time with black beans, small tomatoes, jalapenos, and shredded Swiss cheese. Also had a slow roasted sweet potato (small, cut into slices), and some kale chips. Surprising Big B loves those, but tonight they didn't have enough "spice" for her... she cracks me up! Dinner was all veggies and delicious! Total calories were about 565.

Total so far (probably will have some sort of snack post workout) was about 1365 calories today. Doing well! Now gotta get my butt on the treadmill!

Til next time ~

Food and Exercise

2010-04-26T20:39:00.000-07:00

So, obviously from my last post, I have 12 weeks to get to my goal... and the post before that I talked about not worrying so much about what's coming in and going out... well, that thought may have changed. I have a new fire... get this weight off once and for all in the next 12 weeks!

I had planned to wake up early and exercise some this morning, but my bed was comfy and it was just too early... so I slept in a little, then got up and did my morning routine before work.

Breakfast - I bought a rice cooker a few weeks ago and it has been my lifesaver for my oatmeal in the mornings! I can throw everything together at night, stick the bowl in the fridge, then start it cooking when I get up, and let it warm and turn all yummy while I get ready... I wind up packing it up and eating at my desk once I get to work (mainly because I sleep late!), but that's fine with me.

This morning's mix - which has become one of my favorite! 1/4 c steel cut oats w/ 1 c water, 1/4 c pumpkin, 1/4 c Greek yogurt, dash(es) of cinnamon, dash of vanilla, salt, small amount of walnuts (not usual mix, but good), small amount of dried cranberries, small banana (sliced), topped w/ sprinkle of granola and spoonful of peanut butter. All together with coffee was about 495 calories. It may seem like a lot of calories for my breakfast, but it's all natural foods and it fills me up!

Lunch - today I just had leftovers from last night. I used to make "Swiss Chicken" at least once a week or so, but it's not the healthiest, so I limit it. Big B has been practically begging for me to cook it lately, so that's what I made for dinner last night. I cut the recipe down to help with calorie content. Basically it's a can of mushroom soup (the "healthy" kind), chicken breasts, shredded Swiss cheese, topped with croutons (I drizzled a little EVOO over the instead of butter to help them brown). I used alot less cheese and soup (the original recipe calls for 2 cans), so overall it was a little better. Anyway, back to lunch - I had a small serving which probably averaged about 200 calories, plus about a cup of grapes. Overall lunch total was about 260 calories. I drank a diet Hansen's soda (the best) so zero calories from that! I mainly only drink water and coffee now, but have a diet soda now and then.

Snacked on a small bag of popcorn at work this afternoon which was 100 calories.

Dinner - made it easy tonight - the hubby was at work and Big B had to go to bed early for the TAKS test tomorrow, so we all had OYO (on-your-own) night tonight. I made a quesadilla w/ 2 whole wheat tortillas, sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 c black beans mixed w/ a little salsa, jalapenos (yummy!), and spinach. I mixed up some dip for the quesadilla by mixing a spoonful of salsa to a spoonful of Greek yogurt (it's very good!) and had an apple on the side. Total for dinner was about 510 calories. Drank water - needed to be hydrated for my workout!

Snacked on a Dove dark chocolate post workout which was about 40 calories.

Total food calories for today - 1405.

Workout - on the treadmill... got to my workout this evening after the girls were in bed. There is no TV in the room the treadmill is in, and I've tried turning the music on from the living room, but I have to turn it up very loud and still can barely hear it over the TM, so I decided to try something new tonight - I set up my portable DVD player (w/ headphones) on the TM! The DVD player has a holder with straps to attach to the headrest in the car, so I just attached it to the TM itself... worked out perfectly! I watched... time warp... the first Austin Powers movie! Well, part of it. I was warming up and had hit almost .5 miles in a little over 8 minutes, about 40 calories burned, when I accidentally dislodged the key, so the TM stopped on me... had to start over, but I was able to start out running this time. I ran 2 minutes, walked 2 minutes, etc. for the first mile, then "rested" by walking the first part of the second mile and then started the "run 2 walk 2" again. I finished that part of my workout, with a cool down at the end in 32 minutes, 2.061 miles, and 319.6 calories burned. Felt great after the workout! The miles get easier the longer you go... I just think that's hilarious!

Total exercise calories for today - 360.

Til next time ~

12 more weeks!

2010-04-26T20:26:00.000-07:00

I just realized today there are 12 more weeks til my ONE YEAR point of my weight loss goals. Ultimately I'd still like to lose about 30 more pounds... which if I watch everything and try to keep it steady at about 1.5 - 2.5 pounds per week, I can reach the goal in the time frame I have left. It's taken me about 9 months so far to get off 34 pounds, so I'm hoping these next 3 months will be good to me! In all reality, I had lost the first 30 in about 5 months, but have just been at a plateau area forever now! Owell, it's still better than being 200+ pounds like I was!

Plus in 12 weeks is RIVER TRIP! Last year I met up with some girlfriends from college (that I hadn't seen in years) and we stayed the weekend in Gruene, TX, and floated the Guadalupe River. It was so much fun, and a great time catching up, that we have decided to do it again this year... hoping this will become a yearly thing. I cannot wait!

This trip was 2-fold for me last year; it was great seeing my old friends and having such a great weekend, but it was also my "A-HA" point when I decided it was time to get off my ass and do something about this weight. And I have done it, and I get to show it off this year... may sound a little full of myself, but I am proud of my accomplishments so far, and I'm proud that I have made a complete life change. It's different when you're not "dieting" and you're making the conscious effort to better yourself overall. It feels great!

So, we'll see how it goes... I can see the light!!!

Hello old friend...

2010-04-25T18:38:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in 2 weeks! Not since the 10K! Guess not much has been going on?!?! Well, actually life has been happening... and a few highlights...

*Finally got a treadmill last weekend!!! YEAH!
*Took Big B to get her first pedicure and nails painted!
*Miranda Lambert concert Friday night... just me and BIG B!
*Worked both last weekend and this weekend (Parade of Homes)!
*Awesome, beautiful day at the park yesterday!

It's been a busy 2 weeks. We've had a lot going on, but it's been fun. This weekend seemed to be non-stop, but sometimes that's OK.

Stopped the "dieting", you know with the shakes, etc. and just went back to my normal, healthy eating. I was getting so cranky with watching my calories and keeping them so low... not eating puts me in a bad mood! It's funny because I was reading an article online that talked about how some people actually stop losing weight from keeping their calories low because they *STRESS* about it... OMG, so true! Intuitive eating... I think that may be the best way to go. Still holding around the same weight of 166 - 167... again for about 5 weeks now... I'M SO SICK OF PLATEAUS!!!

On the workout side... I love getting out with my family and walking, etc., but there are some nights it's not possible due to rain or just crazy schedules, so I had the money and decided it was time to purchase a treadmill. I love it! It's nothing fancy, but it sure does it's job. And you know the best thing??? I don't have to dress up, I can wear WHATEVER I want, I don't have to worry about people watching me... I can just do my thing and get in a good workout. We had a treadmill years ago and never used it... this one is already being used like crazy. The only bad thing is that it's not in the living room so I can't watch the boob tube, but then again, I probably wouldn't even be able to hear it. The Beatles keep me going though... so glad they're on the MP3 player.

Already did a workout for the day, so I think I'll call it a night.

Til next time ~

We did it!

2010-04-11T18:25:00.000-07:00

Today was the big Statesman Capitol 10,000 that I have been anxiously awaiting. It was cloudy and drizzly the whole time, but at least the sun was not beating down on us. Off we went to walking, ran some towards the end, and my final time:

1 hour 32 minutes! (avg 14.83 min/mile)

That is the fastest we have walked since we have started "training" and working out. Makes a huge difference without a stroller and 8 year old! LOL!

I'm proud of our time... my hubby's was 1hr 35min... I actually ran a little ahead of him, but it was fun cheering for him across the finish line. Though he thinks I'm crazy for calling it fun, I had a great time!

Goal for next year... run the race! Gotta start working on that now!

Going to read and call it an early night. Great day!

Til next time ~

What's that you say... a 10K???

2010-04-09T19:54:00.000-07:00

Yes, Sunday is the day! I am getting so excited about our upcoming race - The Statesman Capitol 10K in Austin... just praying it doesn't rain, because we do have a chance of it happening! Got my race packet yesterday and my shirts. We're all supposed to wear our HEB red shirts (since HEB is the company that's hosting the event) so we'll be a sea of red. My hubby works for HEB Grocery Company and is a store director... basically some of the people in each store had to go and/or could volunteer. He asked if I wanted to do it with him, and of course I said yes... so glad! We're planning to walk the whole race... depending on if I'm up to it, I may run in increments, but we'll see. The elevation isn't too bad, but there will be some hills and one really big one. There's also quite a few downhills, so maybe I can run those. All in due time! So, I've been hydrating like crazy all week, started Wednesday loading on carbs, and practice walking... I honestly don't know what to expect! But after doing the 5K, it shouldn't be too different, granted this race will only have about 18,000 more people. Seriously, this thing is HUGE! I can't wait... can you tell?

Outta here til next time!

Breaking records...

2010-04-03T22:55:00.000-07:00

I finally broke a personal record tonight! I walked and ran on the treadmill (at my in-laws) for 28 minutes and did 2 miles! And I did each mile in 14 minutes! From the last time I was here about 2 weeks ago, I was doing about 32+ minutes for 2 miles. Needless to say I was going at a 4 - 5 speed almost the whole time, but I was very excited to finally get my time down by that much. I soooooo need a treadmill at home! It would be highly beneficial at this point.... I am starting to really love walking and running. And trying to get better at the running part, but it will take some time to get used to it and train myself for it. So, that's that for today!

Happy Easter weekend!

Til next time ~

Hey fools...

2010-04-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

So totally thought someone was pulling a joke on me today... brand new tires on Saturday, and I had a flat today! Seriously! I had to call my hubby to come fix it and he almost thought I was joking too... only wish I was!

This week has totally flown by.... whooosh! Doesn't even feel like tomorrow is Friday. Gotta work, so it's all the same. Kids are at the grands right now, I'm at home chillin' this evening and the hubby's at work. Ready for the weekend... maybe?

Going to see my family this weekend, and only for a little while... wish me luck! Plus, gotta go get my girls... can't wait for that. I always miss them when they're away.

I finally walked today, and haven't been all week. Monday night was an at home night spent playing outside and quick dinner of tacos. Tuesday night the hubby didn't want to cook, so we went out and had Mexican (theme of the week?). Wednesday night we had to drop the girls off, so had our usual Cracker Barrel. Tonight was OYO night so I had an awesome veggie stuffed baked potato... yum! The weeks meals, other than the dinners out, have all been good. Still doing a little bit of the shake diet, but keeping calorie count low. Weight has been the same, but like I said, I've only worked out one day this week so far... and I felt so much better for it.

Not much else to "talk" about... pretty boring tonight!

Til next time ~

Ahhhh... the weekend...

2010-03-28T21:43:00.001-07:00

Well, Saturday's eating totally sucked! You know lately all of my health magazines have had an article or two saying that people blow their diets on the weekend because they've done so well all week and just give in on the weekends... what did I do Saturday? Just that! I did well with breakfast, and honestly fairly decent with lunch, but then I snacked on the girls Easter candy (egg hunt that morning) and we had pizza (lots of pizza) for dinner. Overall it wasn't horrible, but I gave up on the calorie count! LOL! But, I did go walking for 30 minutes and only wound up doing 1.5 miles... finally had my pedometer and I wasn't doing as well as I thought. And I realized I'm not nearly as fast when pushing the stroller... but I at least got that in!

Today was better and I really made myself do better overall. I had to take care of our friend's dogs this morning, and they happen to live very close to my office, so I took the opportunity to go walking my normal route that I do during the week. Oh, and found out too that it's not the distance I figured it was... I've actually only been walking about 1.5 miles instead of 2! That sucks big time! But today I walked 2 miles in about 38 minutes. I guess it's not horrible, but I wish it was faster.

Had a very quick breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner, did some grocery shopping, had a craving, got some 90 calorie rice cake packs instead, and came in around 1418 calories total today. Not too bad at all. Granted today I had 3 "snacky" foods that I would probably be better off without... jelly beans, 1 pc dark chocolate, and the rice cakes. Still, better than a whole lotta crap right?!?!

Still planning on doing it light this week with the eating. Just itching to get some more weight off... can't wait until I'm to 160 and under! I've already figured the dinners for the week, and will be doing some liquid breakfasts and lunches along with it. So, we'll see. Will probably keep intake to between 1200 - 1400 calories.

Then, 10K preparation next week! The Statesman Capitol 10K in Austin is on April 11, and it's huge, which I didn't realize! Can't wait, but lots of prep work to be happening!

Til next time ~

Day 5...

2010-03-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

What a day... no what a week. It really sucks when you need to go on vacation to get away from everything and you really need that down time, but between preparing for it and cleaning up everything afterwards, the vacation time really wasn't worth it. That was my whole week! I'm frazzled, and I've had so much going on other than work, like stuff with my kids, that I feel like I've been run ragged! And, I still need to go do some more catch up work tonight... please tell me this is not going to be a repeat of last year?!? But, at least this year it's "better" circumstances!

So, overall I was doing well until dinner, then I almost completely blew it... mainly because I was overly hungry, and mainly because I had not "prepared". I've been researching alot of calorie content of just about everything online so I know exactly what I'm eating. I almost sound obsessed! Not what I really want, but I guess in the scheme of things, it's what I need to do.

Breakfast:
1/2 c Kashi oat flake and blueberry (whatever) cereal, 1/2 c Kashi oat (like cheerios) cereal, 1 cup mix of 1/2 banana, strawberries, and kiwi, milk... plus coffee.
Total: about 300 calories

No walk again... don't even get me started... my car is acting up, needs an alignment and new tires, so I was dealing with that mess today! ARRRGH!

Lunch:
2 c salad mix, carrots, raspberry vinaigrette dressing, 4 oz chicken breast (same as yesterday - cooked 3 at one time), tangelo orange, Beemster cheese.
Total: about 350 calories

Tonight we had another school function, so the girls and I had a snack. I split a hot dog and nachos with them. So total maybe around 200 calories (and not good calories either!).

Then, we decided to go visit the hubby at work. I told him I'd bring dinner, and that way we could visit with him. He's been out of town the last couple of days, so the girls were ready to see daddy. And what did I get? Whataburger... not sure what I was thinking, especially after I got home and checked it out online! UGH!

Dinner:
Whataburger 3pc chicken strip meal, gravy, Texas toast, french fries, diet soda.
Total: 1030 calories... you read that right, one "meal". I'm appalled! And I should have known better! I feel like crap now (actually I do from the fried crap) and I'm in shock at the calorie content! This is why I stopped eating out as much!

So, daily total, and no exercise to boot: 1880 calories... well over my limit for weight loss! Planning much better meals for the weekend. That's what it takes!

Til next time ~

Quick update

2010-03-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

Very quick... then I'll post later today for all my food, etc.

4 pounds down in just 4 days!

Start weight Mon: 170.5
End weight Fri: 166.5

Whoo-hoo! So excited about that! Total weight loss to date is 34 pounds! Yeah! You should see me doing flips right now!

Til next time ~

Day 4...

2010-03-25T18:39:00.000-07:00

I am very low on energy, and do you know why... I didn't have my lunch break walk! I swear, that's what did it. Could have been my late night too, but I could definitely feel the surge this afternoon. I couldn't go on my walk because I had to get Big B from school early (she had a club meeting) and so I was able to leave for the day at 4pm, which in turn I didn't take a lunch. But, I did eat!

I was definitely craving some oats... so I just cut it all down to make it less calorie dense... and it worked! And I was definitely craving "food" today! No liquid meals!

Breakfast:
1/4 c oats, 3/4 c water, dash of salt, mashed small banana, 1/4 c canned pumpkin, dash of vanilla, dash(es) of cinnamon, 1/4 c Greek yogurt, about 2 tbsp granola topping and 1/2 tbsp peanut butter... yummy to my tummy! and coffee, of course!
Total: 300 calories

Lunch:
1 slice ww bread w/ a tiny bit of butter, 4 oz chicken breast (baked w/ a little canola spray and seasonings), 1/2 sweet potato w/ skin (baked), 4 oz green beans (steamed for a bit in the microwave; they were crunchy)... totally good!
Total: 520 calories

PM Snack (after I got home):
1 Beemster mini-cheese snack (which I found out is only 59 calories!)
Total: 59, but let's just call it 60 calories

Also snacked before and after dinner on a cup of grapes:
Total: 62 calories

Dinner (at a school function tonight):
2 slices of cheese pizza
Total: 300 calories

Dessert (because I couldn't resist):
14 jelly beans
Total: 56 calories

Daily total: 1298 calories
Only walked about 1/2 a mile at most and took the girls to the park. So, not much in the exercise department! And none tonight because I'm tired, so I'm going to go lay down and read before snooze time.

I did weigh myself at one point today and I was at 166 pounds... so ready to see what tomorrow may be?!?! If that's the case, I've lost at least 4 pounds this week alone. But, like I said before, this won't last long with the fewer calories... I know my body will not let me keep up with that!

Til next time ~

Day 3...

2010-03-24T18:46:00.001-07:00

It's raining now, but thankfully it held off until after we could get home, and we even had a chance to play outside for a little while! Always good!

I had a liquid lunch again, but mainly because I woke up late and was running around getting everything, and everyone ready, so today's meals were actually very thrown together and totally out of convenience!

Breakfast:
Kashi strawberry and grain breakfast bar, banana, coffee @ the office
Total: 230 calories

AM Snack (pre-exercise):
mozzarella string cheese
Total: 60 calories

LUNCH BREAK WALK AND SOME RUNNING TODAY! AND I shaved my time down by 2 minutes! So, 2 miles in 28 minutes today! I went by myself, so no chit-chatting and some serious effort!

Lunch:
HEB Opti-meal shake, tangelo orange, water (lots and lots of water!)
Total: 220 calories

PM Snack (because the shakes just don't last long!):
Kashi granola bar, apple slices, Tazo green tea
Total: 190 calories

Dinner:
Small glass (very small, like 2 oz) red wine, creamed chicken (from my Cooking Light Simple Suppers cookbook), ww noodles
Total: 500 calories

Daily total: 1200 calories exactly! Not bad!
Daily total exercise: about 200 (at least!) burned + some calories burned outside while I was "trying" to jump rope with a tiny jump rope... it didn't work too well!

Definitely can tell this fewer calories intake and more calories burned is making some headway! Granted, I'm a little hungry is the only bad thing :)! But, it's definitely not for long and it's only to jump start my body again. I've needed this boost in a bad way!

Til next time ~

Day 2...

2010-03-23T18:52:00.000-07:00

Better, but no liquid diet today!

Breakfast:
1/4 c Greek yogurt, 1/4 c Barenaked granola, 1/2 sliced banana, coffee (I drink my coffee with a splash of skim milk and 1 splenda packet for a large mug)
Total: 240 calories

AM Snack (pre-walk):
Beemster mini cheese
Total: I'm guessing around 100 calories (info not on package)

Exercise - 2 miles in 30 minutes again - I LOVE MY LUNCH BREAK WALKS! Plus a co-worker is going with me, so we're both motivating each other!

Lunch:
2 c salad mix (spinach and mixed greens), baby carrots, grapes, light (no calorie) balsamic vinaigrette dressing
pouch of salmon and rice cake
Total: 200 calories

PM Snack:
Tangelo orange
Total: about 50 calories

Dinner:
Almost totally blew this one! We ate out at a Mexican food place, but I stuck to their "healthier" options. I did munch on a few chips and salsa and had water to drink. My meal was chicken breast (w/ cheese), on top of spinach, onions and mushrooms, black beans and Mexican rice. Just guessing on calories, but it's probably in the 600 - 800 range with everything.

Daily total at most would be 1390 calories - so even with eating out, not bad!

Exercise calories ~ 200 burned.

I weighed today and I was actually at 168! Not bad. Last week it fluctuated badly since we were off our regular eating while traveling, so I didn't technically weigh myself for tracking purposes, but at one point I was at 170 (before we left!). Just curious to see what the end of the week will look like?!?!

Til next time ~

Day 1...

2010-03-22T09:42:00.000-07:00

Today was not bad!

Breakfast:
Oatmeal w/ way too much stuff since my total, including coffee, wound up being around 520 calories! Whoa, need to back off some at breakfast!

Sipped on water before my walk!

Walked 2 miles in 30 minutes! Whoo-hoo! I was feeling good!

Lunch:
"Drank" my lunch today - HEB Opti-Meal and a rice cake totaling 240 calories.

Sipped on La Croix cran-raspberry water.

Snack:
Couldn't resist because that lunch left me hungry! 10 peanut butter filled pretzels totaling 160 calories.

Dinner:
Brinner w/ 1 egg (sunny side up!), 3 turkey sausage links, 2 sweet potato pancakes (OMG yum!), and strawberries and kiwi topping. Also had butter and syrup on my pancakes with all in all totaling around 430 calories.

Sipped on Tazo "calm" tea because my day was very stressful!

Total calories consumed = 1350 (give or take)
Exercise calories used = 200 (give or take)

Off to bed... til next time ~

Trying something new...

2010-03-21T22:37:00.000-07:00

I'm really not into "dieting" or "fad diets" or anything of the sort; so what am I going to try? Meal replacements shakes... what the hell? I'm SICK of this plateau I'm in and I think alot of it is too many extra calories (I haven't been keeping track as well) and not enough "different" exercises (and probably overall too little). I've been contemplating it for a little while now, and I thought "why not" for a week or so. I know that I can't do it too long, so it will only be for a little while. I'm actually also thinking of only doing it for lunch and not breakfast and lunch. I really need that meal in the morning to get me started! So, we'll see how it goes. I also bought some rice cakes tonight, so I think I'll eat that with it to at least have some "umph" to it!

I still have 30 pounds or so to go. I guess... technically I want to get down in the 140 range, but I may only get to the 150 range, and I really think that may be ok for me. So, we'll see if this will jump start it. Maybe we'll get some better weather and I can start walking again in the evenings. We should pretty soon. I'm also considering buying a treadmill. When we were at my in-laws this weekend, I used theirs everyday we were there and I loved it. How nice would it be to run and walk on a treadmill every night after the girls are in bed and I can watch a show or a movie and get a great workout in? Granted, it's so much nicer to walk outside, but when it's cold and rainy, I can't take the girls out in it, and I really don't want to be out in it myself! So, we'll see... I think I'll do some research this week and check out Craigslist.

So, I'll post my week and we'll see how the new "diet plan" works. I just gotta try something a little different!

Til next time ~

Whew... what a week...

2010-03-20T20:35:00.000-07:00

We've been to the Dallas area, up to Oklahoma, and back to Dallas, and during the course of the week it has been rainy and warm, warm and sunny, cold and sunny, rainy and cold, and now cold and snow! UGH ---- have I mentioned lately how tired I am of this crazy, not normal Texas weather? It's driving me crazy!

We went to OK this week for a "Pre-World War Car Swap Meet" and our car club meet. I have to be honest, I have already told the hubby I'm not going again next year (or probably the year after that as well!). It's terribly boring, there's not much to do, I get abandoned so he can go look at parts (but that's what he's there for right?) and this year Lil B didn't just lay in her stroller and nap while I read... she had to be corralled! I guess it's all pretty funny now, but most of the experience just kind of sucked! The hotel was bad, I actually had a man from the cleaning crew walk in on me while I was in my towel before we had even checked out (and he didn't even knock!), everyone we encountered working in a service position was a complete moron, and there was not many fun things to do during the short time we were there. So, anyway, I guess I can get off of that soap box!

We ate decent... and then we didn't! We took a "food box" where basically I pack most of the things we would normally eat or want on a trip... beef jerky, trail mix, nuts, granola bars, breakfast bars, oatmeal, peanut butter, granola, raisins, pretzels, crackers, cheese, summer sausage, go-gurt, hummus etc.... plus carrot sticks, apples, bananas, oranges... and milk, juice, water, diet sodas. Needless to say, we could have been stranded on the road for approximately a week and we would have been fine! Instead of the hotel "crappy-continental" breakfast, we made oatmeal in the room and/or had breakfast bars, plus fruit. For lunch the first day we ate from our stash, and it was yummy! We then tried to eat a decent dinner by going to a restaurant that has a buffet/salad bar type thing and you could pretty much get what you want, so I tried to stay in the safer territory there. The second day there was a stand that was selling polish sausage "hot-dogs" and I couldn't resist! It was sooooo freakin' good! Complete with sour kraut (which I usually don't like), onions and bell peppers... yuuuummmm!!! So then I also snacked a lot in the truck, and then we had the worst (but good) pizza possible for dinner that night. Then today we had to go further north Dallas to look at a car, met with my parents, and we had one of my old favorite Mexican food places and I ate almost a whole bowl of chips plus a whole little cup of salsa, 2 tortillas, plus my meal... yeah, big pig there! OMG - this week was not good on my diet!

But, I was able to use my in-laws treadmill all the time we've been here, and I ran and walked the first night at the hotel (second day just let the walking around at the meet be my exercise), so at least I've gotten some good workouts in! Although I really hate their scale right now! Maybe I just need to wait a few days after I get back home!

Back to the grind after tomorrow... wish me luck!

Til next time ~

One 5K down...

2010-03-13T14:19:00.000-08:00

Big B and I walked our first 5K today! It was to benefit the Scott & White Children's hospital, and it was AWESOME! Lil B was with us in the stroller, and there were lots of parents there with strollers and kids toting along. We met up with a friend of ours and her friend (that just so happens to live close to us and her kid goes to the same school as mine! - small world) and we all pretty much stuck together the whole time. It was a beautiful, warm, and sunny day... perfect for a walk! Our total time: 57.17 minutes. I think we did our first mile in about 15+ minutes, but slowed down on the others due to getting tired (kids and pregnant friend) and lots and lots of hills! The one area in Temple they choose to do this race and it had to have all the hills... LOL! But, we had fun and it was definitely for a good cause.

In April my hubby and I are doing a 10K! This one is w/ HEB to benefit Meals on Wheels. I'm pretty excited about it, but I know now that we've got to get working if we want to do 6 miles in under 2 hours. I'm shooting for 1.5 hours! But, the one different thing about that race is no kiddos for us. My in-laws are coming to watch the girls because I knew it would be way too much time for Big B to keep up with us and to push a stroller for Lil B. So, prep work coming soon!

I had a great time and look forward to doing more of these... only pitfall is I'm exhausted today... but it's also Saturday and my natural "lazy" day!

Til next time ~

Sometimes occurences in life suck!

2010-03-09T22:05:00.000-08:00

Over the past month or so I have been keeping up with a family and their little girl fighting neuroblastoma cancer. Their blog is http://laylagrace.org. For whatever reason, I don't know this family or anything, I was absolutely drawn to them. Their faith in God was amazing and their love for their family and their little girl was inspirational. One post was the mother talking about how she wishes she had more time for her kids to be "bugging" her in the kitchen, etc. and that time is so precious... aren't there times we all get frustrated? I know I do, and that post alone made me stop and hold my youngest daughter who was screaming at my feet to be picked up and take the time to listen to my older daughter when she had something to say. I think to myself "what if it were one of them"? What would I do in a situation where I was about to lose one to cancer? Or to anything for that matter? How do you go on?

Unfortunately today, little Layla lost her battle and "went to play with the angels" as her mom put it. She was 2, had a mom and dad and 2 big sisters. My heart goes out to them, and to anyone going through something like this.

As I've said before "everything happens for a reason". Everything is in God's hands... we don't chose, even as much as we'd like to. Everyone has their place on this earth, their reason for being here. I will just think of Layla as being the little angel that made people stop for a little while... read her twitter posts and facebook and blog and you'll see the outpouring; I was not the only one touched by this little girl and her family. But I feel blessed to have my eyes opened.

Til next time ~

Plateaus....

2010-03-09T21:46:00.000-08:00

I have found the hardest thing about losing a large amount of weight is hitting a plateau! I was doing so good and 30 pounds just flew off, but for the past 6 weeks or so I have stayed at one weight. I am finally down to 170 (whoo-hoo!) but I've been fluctuating between 171, 172, etc. And then of course I weigh myself way too much, so I see the ups and downs through the week... I know I shouldn't be doing that, but can't help it! I guess it's also what's keeping me in check in a way.

So, 30 pounds down, about 20-30 more to go. Still looking to get down to 140, but if ultimately I get to 150 and I'm ok with how I look and feel, I'll be fine if that's all I can lose. It's still a major weight loss and I'm happy with that.

Still trying to do my lunch break walks as much as possible. Between rainy days, and days when there is not enough time (meetings, etc.), I've only gotten a few walks in and it hasn't been everyday. But, my coworker finally started going with me. We've now gone twice (together) and it makes the walk seem so much better... we're both pretty much hauling butt to get a good work out in, plus trying to keep up with each other! My plan is to go one more day this week since I have a lunch appointment tomorrow and a "working" lunch on Thursday. And Saturday is our 5K so I'm trying to do as much as possible this week.

I also got in a great Wii workout tonight. The 30-day challenge is fine, but trying to actually do it everyday, and have the rest days, etc. is just almost too much. I know that sounds lame, but if I walked earlier or have other things going on, the last thing on my mind has been the Wii. So, I did my own workout that I had created previously.... and let me tell you I think I was smoking crack when I put it together! No, it was really a good workout, just long and intense (that still cracks me up because this is a video game!). I burned about 260 calories in about 48 minutes. The workout had a good mix of everything, so my heart was pumping. I'll probably be sore tomorrow!

Headed to bed now... it's been a long day.

Til next time ~

Nostalgia...

2010-03-01T09:35:00.000-08:00

Maybe the only way I can describe our weekend is that we didn't have the "warm fuzzies" like we did last time we were in Stephenville. There are many things and people that I "miss" about Stephenville, but after our weekend there I've figured out that we've "outgrown" it. Does that make sense? I was soooo ready to go back, figuring if one day we ever had to move back I'd be there in a flash... but now, not so much. The town seemed "tired" and "run-down". Maybe it's not supposed to look as appealing anymore? I still don't feel like our current location is the place for us, and my hubby and I both agree that we won't be here forever, but for right now, maybe it is... it obviously has to be in God's plan for us. Our motto is "everything happens for a reason"... and I guess whether we like it or not, it does.

But, we did have a great weekend with wonderful friends. So glad to see everyone and celebrate little Leah's first birthday!

Til next time ~

Our old stompin' grounds...

2010-02-26T21:11:00.000-08:00

We're headed to Stephenville and I am so excited! I really, really, really miss Stephenville... it's hard to explain, but it just feels like home there. Our lives started there... my hubby and I met, got married, started our family, bought our first house, had our first "real" jobs... the list just goes on. Part of me will always long to be there, and if we had the opportunity to move back, I know we would in a heartbeat. It's taken almost 4 years to finally get adjusted being here in Belton, and it still doesn't feel like "home". I just don't feel like we belong here... I think that's the only way I can describe it.

Anyway, we're going for our friend's daughter's birthday party. In October, our friend Stephanie passed away from cancer; this is her daughter and she turned 1 on Thursday. It's definitely a bittersweet time, but we are very excited about seeing Josh and Leah and seeing our old friends. I miss Stephanie like crazy and having never lost a friend like that, the grieving process is almost kind of odd. I heard a song the other day that had been played at her funeral and I lost it; I could not control the tears; I just have a hard time putting myself in Josh's position as a husband who lost his wife and Stephanie's position of knowing you're dying and leaving a daughter... I think that's what gets to me so much, just the thought of not having enough time with the ones you love. Getting choked up thinking about it!

Ok, better now. Stephenville, here we come!

Another week down...

2010-02-26T20:49:00.000-08:00

I have to say, I think most of my posts lately are getting away from so much of the "weight" issues and "eating" and are a little more in line with what's going on in the rest of my life. Guess that's why it "Random Thoughts"!

But speaking of the weight thing; I have definitely been hitting some pretty hard plateaus lately. It seems to take me at least 4 weeks to get 1 pound off! I was looking at my spreadsheet today and noticed that I sat around 175 for a few weeks, then 173 for about four weeks, and now 171 for about 4 weeks. UGH... I have to say, I get frustrated when I weigh every week. I need to increase my exercise more, but I'll be honest, this weather is killing me and it's hard doing too much outside when it's cold and you have to tote kids out in it... I just have a moral dilemma with that; it's not worth freezing my kids out just to loose a pound! It just seems like the first 30 pounds were a breeze to get off, but now I'm definitely entering the part where I really have to work harder at it... gotta keep pushing through!

This week I was only able to make 2 walks during lunch. Monday was the first day, Tuesday was our snow day, Wednesday was my late day so I didn't really take a full lunch break, Thursday was my second day, and today I had some errands that had to be done so the walk had to wait. Hopefully next week will be better.

Got my hair cut again today. My last cut was really good, but it took way too much time to fix in the mornings, so I got it cut a lot shorter in the back. My mornings are so rushed, the last thing I want to do is worry about my hair... hopefully this will do the trick and there won't be any issues!

So that's it for now... til next time ~

Our 24 hours of snow...

2010-02-24T19:20:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics from yesterday's wonderful snow! We had a brief "drizzle" of snow on Christmas Eve, but we have not had a real snow fall since Easter 2006... now let me tell you, that was crazy! Of course us Texans don't have a clue what to do with this stuff or how to drive in it, but we enjoy it when it's here (at least some of us do)! Whether I would want it all the time is a totally different story...

And then today...

It was fun while it lasted... schools closed early, so I got to spend most of the day with my girls and this morning there was a late start. We had alot of fun playing in the snow yesterday, and I felt like a big kid throwing snow balls! My drive home was absolutely beautiful yesterday... then today, the weather was cold, but nice and sunny! Gotta love Texas weather!

It's SNOWING!

2010-02-23T07:23:00.000-08:00

It has been snowing since at least 7 or so this morning, and has gradually gotten heavier. Right now it's pouring down "sideways" and making the ground white. For us Texas people, we're just not quite sure what to think of this, but it's pretty awesome if you ask me. This has been the coldest, longest winter that I have ever experienced! And snow to boot! God truly has amazing gifts. Enjoy the day!

Til next time ~

Great walk!

2010-02-22T19:42:00.000-08:00

Today I started my lunch break walks. And I knew I would get "stood-up" and not have anyone go with me... I figured that, but it didn't bother me one bit. I just popped in my ear phones to my mp3 player and jammed along. I didn't walk the cul-de-sacs this time like I did last time, but walked the trail 3 times around total. Once I got to the trail I ran for a bit (actually a lot longer than I can normally do) and then set myself at a good brisk walking pace. Side note: it was nice and warm over the weekend, then today when I left the office it wasn't even 40*... I dressed warm and wore my jacket, but it was pretty darn cold. But with the pace I was going, I kept myself warm. It took me right at 30 minutes to walk from and to the office, so I think it was right at 2 miles. I forgot my pedometer this morning to track it, so I'll take that next time I go. It felt good to get out there and not have to worry about my kids being too cold, or even going too fast for them. All about me today! When I was heading back to the office, one of my supervisors was just coming back from lunch and he told me I just had to stop doing all this "healthy" stuff because I was making everyone else look bad while they were all out eating... of course I was headed back to eat myself!

I had an awesome lunch with an egg salad sandwich (made with 2 hard boiled eggs, a little Greek yogurt, paprika, salt, pepper and sprinkle of parm cheese - I could actually only fit about half on the sandwich, so only one egg next time!) on ww bread w/ spinach, a chopped carrot, grapes and kiwi fruit. So filling! For breakfast this morning I had oats mixed with banana, pumpkin, Greek yogurt and topped w/ a small amount of granola and pb; snack I had some frozen black berries and raspberries that I thawed out and topped with Greek yogurt w/ a tad of honey; for dinner I had an organic hot dog on ww bread, cup of tomato bisque soup (w/ a few leaves of spinach left over from lunch) and some kale chips (courtesy of katheats.com) with the extra half of a clementine orange that Lil B didn't eat. Was a great filling day! Also lots of water, coffee this morning, and some herbal tea this afternoon... think I'll also have some more before bedtime.

Predictions of snow tomorrow... only in Texas?!?!? Never stays the same around here!

Til next time ~

Signed up for a 5K walk!

2010-02-21T19:23:00.000-08:00

This week I signed myself and my oldest daughter up for a 5K walk in March! Of course my youngest daughter will be with us, but she has the luxury of enjoying the view from the jogging stroller! Lucky her, huh?

Anyway, the walk is to benefit the Children's Network and all proceeds will got to the Scott and White Children's Hospital in Temple, TX. It just seemed like an awesome opportunity for us to participate in. Here is the link: http://stpatricksrun.childrensmiraclenetwork.org. Can't wait!

And being that this is coming up soon, we're in "training"... basically we're just walking as much as we can, as long as we can. Last night we walked (and ran some) about 2 miles. We were really hoofing it, and the trail that we did we've only done one other time and there are lots of great hills both ways, so it made for some good changes throughout the walk. I basically chose to run down the hills because I didn't have a hard time doing that, but walked up the hills since I was pushing the stroller. All this with my 8 year old... that girl rocks! And what a great way for her to stay fit! Healthy choices early, that's what it takes!

We did some shopping last night for new running shoes and some clothes, etc. and when we got done I told Big B that it's expensive to get into shape, and she told me out flat "well, at least you're getting in shape and out doing something". The funny thing is, it didn't catch me off guard or offend me; I liked that she saw my efforts as doing something good for myself. She sees that I'm trying and that it's important and that it's actually paying off... investment in health, that's my mantra!

I'm so excited because before one of my meetings this week I found a great walking trail by my office. It's probably about .5 miles, but the one area I walked in a neighborhood before I found the trail was right at 1 mile (round trip from the office). The reason I'm so excited about this is that I can walk during my lunch breaks! 2 miles should take me right at 30 minutes (give or take) and then it still leaves me 30 minutes to eat, and I bring my lunch most of the time anyway, so it works out perfect. One of the girls from the office said she would join me, and when I put it on my Outlook calendar and invited her, she accepted... of course I did tell her that whether she was going or not, I was definitely going. And it better not start raining for the whole spring! If it does, I am for sure getting a gym membership, no.questions.asked!

Off to work on some housework! Til next time ~

Busy week...

2010-02-20T04:48:00.000-08:00

But, there were some days of work w/ no motivation... I hate when there are things to get done, but I'm just not in the mood for them, or maybe it's just that I'm not sure where to start. Have had a lot of that lately... changes at the office make for some "I don't know what to do" moments!

There were 2 meetings that I had to stay late for, so those nights the hubby took care of the girls. One night I did some late night grocery shopping, and then the other night we were lucky enough to have a family walk/bike ride at the park... it had been nice and warm the whole day, but once we got to the park it was chilly, so we only got about 1.5 laps around.

But Friday night was the best! We had a "Family Friday Night" complete with fondue and a movie. We did the fried version of fondue w/ assorted veggies, chicken, beef and shrimp all with tempura batter. My in-laws got us a fondue pot for Christmas, so this was our first night to use it. It was great! The one good thing about fondue like that is you don't tend to overeat because you have to wait for so long for everything to cook, by the time you've eaten a little here and a little there, you're totally full! So, that was good. I also enjoyed some wine with mine and we had some cookie ice cream sandwiches... totally away from healthy eating, but one night every now and then is OK.

We watched Hotel For Dogs, which is so cute, and we really enjoyed it. There were a few parts that had Big B in tears, but it turned out good. The hubby and I tried watching The Hangover, but I passed out on the couch and didn't wake up until almost 6am Sat morning... needless to say, I was a little tired! My hubby tried getting me to come to bed, but he said I didn't even budge. Owell, I slept good!

So that was the week... nothing too exciting, just ready to feel a little more "at ease" with work, etc. The only change we had was one of the girls who's been there forever left so they hired someone that took over some of the things she was doing and transitioned some of the stuff I was doing to the new girl, then transitioned some of the stuff the old girl was doing to me, etc. and I just feel like I really don't know what I'm supposed to be doing yet... see, I'm rambling and that's how I feel at work!

Well, til next time... enjoy the day!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-02-13T22:49:00.000-08:00

I had the BEST DAY today! Today I turned 31... wow, I actually made it through 30! Really, this past year has been a great one. Lots of trying times, but lots of good ones too. It's the year that I started to really think about my future and really started to take care of myself physically... now only if I could get that little "funk" that I sometimes get into taken care of! I feel great, I'm eating better than I ever have in my life and I'm finally starting to take exercise seriously. I feel that I'm off to a great start!

I had the best wake up call this morning... my babies! Big B came in and said "wake up, it's your birthday"... she seemed more excited about it than me! She actually went and got Lil B out of her bed and they both came to my room with the gift they got me. So, I was up! Technically, still in bed, but awake... we all piled in our bed and I opened the presents. The girls got me some chocolates (because no matter what, I will never forgo chocolate!) and 2 books that I've been wanting... The Time Traveler's Wife and Dear John. Can't wait to get started on those! My hubby got me some awesome smelling candles too. After we played for awhile in bed, we got up and started our morning. The hubby cleaned up the kitchen (gotta love a man that will do that) and the girls played and watched a little tv. I played on the computer some while I was waiting on my clothes to dry and then started getting ready. While I was putting on makeup, Lil B decided she wanted some too, so she had my blush everywhere! Hey, she was having fun! We finally got out of the house and went to lunch at Cracker Barrel... it was quick and easy, I love it, and it's kid friendly... and I had dessert as my birthday "cake". My hubby knew I wouldn't want a big cake sitting around the house for days, so he was hoping that the dessert thing would work for me, and yes it did! We were on our way to a friend's house where they were having a birthday party for their son that turned 2 yesterday. Lots of fun there and had a great time visiting with some old friends. The kids had a blast playing... they had a bounce house, which I also jumped some too (you know, so the kids would do it). We had some pizza and veggies at the party... plus some cake and ice cream (couldn't resist!). After we left, we did a little shopping and got the girls some jeans, then headed home. On the way home, Big B mentioned the move The Tooth Fairy again, so I called the movies and it was playing, so that's where we went after Lil B was down for the night and the hubby was staying home. The movie was sooo cute and funny. Sort of like the Game Plan, basically with the same type of plot, but totally cute for little girls (and big ones) to watch... really glad we went!

So now it's the end of my birthday "day" and it was definitely the best. Looking forward to the year ahead!

This week is draining me!

2010-02-10T19:35:00.000-08:00

Not sure if it was my LAZY Sunday, or I'm just not getting enough sleep (I'm sure it's that!) but I am exhausted! I feel completely drained tonight, and I also don't feel the greatest; feels like a cold.

Now I'm trying to think back the last couple of days... Monday night Lil B didn't make it in the toddler bed! She got up about 3 different times, so we put her back in the crib... for now at least. We'll probably have to use the baby gate or something so she won't be wandering the house in the middle of the night! Last night Big B and I went to her school and had a PTA meeting and some fun math games... we really had a great time! I needed to go to the store to pick up a few odd and end things and stuff for their Valentine parties this week, so we went after our activities. I also needed to get some sodas for the office, realized it was going to freeze overnight, and I didn't want frozen soda all over my car! So, I dropped Big B off with the hubby and headed to the office. Needless to say, I didn't work out last night (unless you count carrying in about 12 soda packs from the car to the office?).

Tonight it was hard to get motivated, but I did a Wii workout. I really want to go out and walk... this weather is killing me!!!! I'm so sick of it being cold... it's been cold since October! That just doesn't happen here, and it SUCKS! OK, enough of my rant... I burned 150.2 calories in about 27 minutes tonight. Not bad, but I'm just ready for bed now.

So, off to get lunch stuff ready for tomorrow, then BED!!!

Good night ~

Tired tonight...

2010-02-08T20:27:00.000-08:00

Not sure if it's from the weekend, or my late night last night, but I feel whooped tonight! After we got home, I cooked dinner (pork chops, roasted potatoes and roasted green beans w/ garlic... yum), cleaned the kitchen, and then we got the girls to bed. Lil B was having a hard time going to sleep tonight. We just moved her into a toddler bed last week, so this is technically her 3rd night in the bed. Overall she's doing well with it, but she just wasn't ready for bed when we put her down. She actually let me rock her tonight, which she normally doesn't let me do, so we rocked until she was ready to lay down. I guess that put me out for the night as well! I had intended to workout, but I just wasn't in the mood at all! So, I settled for some light yoga moves and stretching, and I actually feel alot better from that. It's getting cold again, and just plain nasty outside... I'm ready for some warmth again... where is my Texas weather?!?! Sipping on some chamomile tea, then I am off to bed. Hopefully I can get some good sleep and be better prepared for tomorrow. We have a "math family fun night" (or something like that) and pizza at Big B's school tomorrow night, so that should be fun. But first gotta get through the day of work, work, work...

Good night ~

Lazy Sunday... with a bonus!

2010-02-07T21:06:00.000-08:00

My girls are home! I missed them! But they had a great time at their grandparent's and grandma was very grateful to have them for the weekend. They only live about 1.5 hours away, but our schedules all tend to be crazy, so we're lucky if we see them at least once a month. We always meet halfway when the kids are going or coming, so tonight we met in Waco at Cracker Barrel... we obviously meet there alot because when they pulled into the parking lot, Lil B cried out "Mommy"! So cute! I got there shortly after they did and was so excited to see my babies! The hubby had to work, so it was just me tonight. We had a great dinner and visited, and Great Granny (we call her GG, and she's actually the hubby's Granny) came along too. She brought me my birthday present early since we won't see them next weekend. My birthday is on Saturday... the big 3-1! Anywho... she gave me a candle and glass hurricane holder that has the saying "Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Always". So appropriate! It was nice to see them, but the parting was bittersweet... Big B cried this time (she hasn't done that in awhile) and I think Grandma was crying some too! If only we could all live a little closer so the visits could be a little more often...

Well, the remainder of the day was L-A-Z-Y!!! We watched the movie last night... and PS, I do not like the movie Paranormal Activity, which I know is totally low budget and probably cheesy overall, but it scared the crap out of me... and after it was over we watched a little tv and then started dozing. We finally got up and started off to bed, then my hubby made a face at me that was similar to the movie and it scared me half to death and I started crying(!) because I was totally not fully awake! He felt really bad though! It was around 2am when we went to sleep, so we had planned to sleep til we woke up. I forgot my phone alarm was on from the day before, so it woke us up at 8:30, so I turned that off and went back to bed. We didn't officially get out of bed until 10:30! It was nice, but then we made our way to the chair to watch tv and I snuggled up with my hubby and snoozed a little more! I made some oats (at lunch time of course!) and then vegged out and snoozed some more while watching tv afterwards. I totally had a walk in mind when I got up this morning, but the weather was dreary and I was just not in the mood... couldn't get motivated. The only thing that finally got me up was the fact that I had to drive to Waco, so I got ready quickly and made my trip.

But, I did get in another Wii workout. I'm actually starting to look forward to these workouts after I put the girls to bed at night. Since I didn't have the walk, or much of anything productive going on today, I decided to do the high intensity workout. Overall, it was once again a good workout. I did 195.9 calories in 34:43 minutes, but then decided to do a "short sports" workout that I created and did another 26.5 calories in 5:3 minutes for a grand total of 222.4 calories burned. Not too bad!

Now just getting some laundry done, need to clean the kitchen and start getting stuff ready for tomorrow. Just waiting on the hubby to get home from work, then we'll be off to bed.

Good night ~

Got another one in...

2010-02-06T21:29:00.000-08:00

One more Wii workout down... I was really considering not working out tonight, but since last night was my "rest" night, I decided I needed to go ahead with the workout. I am definitely trying to get through this 30-day challenge. I'd like to see just how much I can lose during that time! I did the low intensity tonight because my muscles needed a break. Did about 17 minutes and 96.4 calories. Not much, but at least I did have the walk today as well. I realized this afternoon I had not consumed too many calories for the day. I ate half a banana and a spoonful of peanut butter before my walk this morning, then had some oatmeal (with the rest of the banana and some other stuff thrown in) when we got back; a sandwich (veggies, cheese, hummus), grapes and an orange for lunch; then an egg on an English muffin, salad, and acorn squash, plus a little tomato soup for dinner. Overall not too bad.

My hubby is on his way home from work and we're watching a movie before bed... he got Paranormal Activity, so I'm not sure if I'll make it through. That movie may scare me (no "may", it will scare me!)... hopefully I'll be able to sleep!

Good night ~

It's Saturday!!!

2010-02-06T14:06:00.000-08:00

And what am I doing??? Working, that's right, working.

The kiddos went to the grand's last night, so the hubby and I slept in some (8:30ish) and went for a 3 mile walk. It was somewhat cold, but the SUN(!) was finally out and the walk was great. Trying to keep up with the hubby can be challenging.... his stride is soooo long, but it makes for a better walk. We tried running on the way back, but the road is pretty steep and I was tired.... I still suck at running!

Last night on our way home from dropping the girls off, we went by W-Mart(ugh) to get the hubby some sunglasses (he just got contacts) and I found some workout clothes. Got a new pair of fleece pants, a couple of t-shirts, a thermal-type active wear shirt, and a sports bra. I so needed a new sports bra! My bras are actually getting too big, so I needed a little more support in that region for our walks, etc. I always use a regular cotton bra and then a sports bra over it for more "compression" and the new one did the trick this morning!

So after our walk we got home, I made some oats (yummy), and got ready for work. I helped out with our sales department today and sat in a house.... boring, but hey had one walk-in that may turn into a contract, so that's just a little extra moola for me! Now I'm trying to do some catchup stuff before the week starts (but of course I'm blogging first - LOL).

Going to hit the Wii tonight and hopefully get some good sleep - our wonderful neighbors decided to have a loud party until almost 2 (probably later, that's when we finally got to sleep), so hopefully that won't happen again.... and yes, we were the ones that sent the cops over to keep it quiet (we're so tough!).

Til next time ~

It's a loss!

2010-02-05T14:17:00.000-08:00

Well, my official weight today was 171... must have been a fluke the other day, but owell! At least it's 2 pounds since last week! Change of plans for the night - we're taking the kids to the grands for the weekend, and I think I'll work some to catch up and do a little helping out with our sales team. So, should be a packed weekend either way. Have a good one!

Legs = JELLO!

2010-02-04T20:25:00.001-08:00

I had a more "intense" workout tonight. Lots of squats, lunges, jump squats, jump lunges, running... my legs were so tired! I worked out for about 33 minutes (but had about 3 or so minutes of technical difficulty because my shorts were messing up the leg strap and the numchuk!) and burned about 188.7 calories. I chose the "hard" intensity workout tonight... normally I do the medium, and I may have originally started with the low, but you burn more calories the harder it is. And it did tonight! I think I may be sore tomorrow (LOL!).

Tomorrow night is my "rest" night again, so I think we are coming home and cooking dinner, then Big B and I may go out and watch the movie Tooth Fairy. She's really been wanting to see that movie, and it will give her and I some good time out by ourselves. It's so much harder to balance your time with 2 kids. But, I gotta make this time for each of them!

Off to bed... almost feel like I'm starting to get sick, so I think I'll take some medicine too.

Good night ~

Breakfast for dinner... "brinner"!

2010-02-03T20:10:00.001-08:00

Last night was my "rest" night from the 30-day challenge on the Wii. So I had to go to the grocery, and that's what I did after work. The hubby and the kids were OYO (on your own) for dinner last night while I shopped, then I came home and ate.

Was trying to come up with menu ideas off the top of my head right before I shopped and breakfast sounded good... for dinner! Yum. We had oatmeal pancakes (just found this new mix from Quaker), center cut bacon, hash browns and eggs scrambled with spinach. I also had half a banana, plus a little OJ and some herbal tea. I was stuffed after dinner, but it sure was good!

Did my workout tonight... 119.1 calories in about 24 minutes. It was pretty much all upper body stuff tonight. I like how during the 30-day challenge it mixes up all of the workouts so you get different stuff each time. Keeps it interesting. I also chose to have the "guy" trainer... something about his voice doesn't make me want to scream out "ok shut up you b*tch!" like the lady does... humph?!?!?

I'm actually really starting to feel the loss now, and see it. Pretty exciting! I wore a pair of jeans today that were a little tight the last time I wore them (about a month ago) and they fit perfect today. I'm noticing my sweats are starting to get baggy in the butt... granted it's the little things, but I'm finally starting to see the results.

Funny thing my hubby said to me today... one of the guys he works with asked if I was at the store last night... yes... he said that he almost didn't recognize me because I looked so different and wanted to know how much weight I had lost... even people that I don't really "see" or "talk" to all the time notice. It's just one of those things though that makes me think "God, how bad did I really look beforehand?". And yeah, I know that answer!

Enough for tonight, headed to bed a little early!

Have I met my mark?

2010-02-02T10:07:00.000-08:00

Well, it's totally "unofficial" because I weigh myself "officially" on Friday's, but today I am at 170.5! Meaning I have lost 30(!!!) pounds to date since July 17! I just almost can't contain my excitement... it just feels like I'm finally starting to get somewhere now. So, we'll see Friday how the week goes with all my eating good and working out, and let's hope for more loss!

YEAH!!!!

Another one bites the dust...

2010-02-01T20:10:00.000-08:00

So you totally have that song stuck in your head now, don't you? LOL!

Got in another great Wii Active workout. Day 2 and still going strong! That just kinda makes me laugh! This one kicked my butt though - 166.2 calories in about 28 minutes. Lots of running, lots of lower body, I was sweating at the end... granted I'm in sweats and the heater is on!

The hubby and I have been at each other lately; I think just the stress of being in the house due to the weather, both of us taking care of a sick and clingy baby, and just needing time to ourselves. We're planning a mini-vacation here in the near future for some R & R sans kids. We are thinking of Fredricksburg, TX... wine country, lots of antiques, B & B's and Ranches, lots of nature... right up our alley! Already excited about it and he just mentioned it tonight. We are in desperate need of "us" time. I'm sure every married couple feels like that from time to time, especially when that married couple is also "mom" and "dad".

Going to go veg in front of the TV before I head to bed... oops, gotta work on a little laundry too! UGH!!! Good night...

I like to work it, work it...

2010-01-31T20:15:00.000-08:00

Finally back at it! Wow, today was a great "workout" day. Although it is FREEZING here, again, I walked about 3 miles around lunch time, then worked out with the Wii Active tonight. I started a brand new 30-day challenge, so let's see if I can actually finish this one! The last one I started was right before all of my hernia problems started, so I'm excited to be starting fresh.

I knew this morning that I wanted to go for a long walk. My father-in-law was in town for the weekend, so he and the hubby were working on their "man" things. I got bundled up and started to head out. Big B was going to go with me, but she did her usual "I'm 8 and I'll do what I want and not what Mom and Dad tell me", so I made her stay home and then later got a text from the hubby that she had fallen asleep... I think she was tired and acting out on that. Lil B has been sick, so she was already taking a nap. So, got outside and it was sooooo cold! But, I was somewhat bundled up and knew that once I got going I would warm up... there was no sun, so it took a while. Since I didn't have the girls with me I walked to the park by our house. It's right at half a mile to get to the walking trail, so I got in 1 whole mile to and from. I walked 2 times around the trail, which is approximately a mile, probably a little less, so I got in almost 2 miles just from that. I could have actually gone longer, but I was still cold and not warming up very well, and knew I needed to get home to check on the girls. I was only out for about 30 minutes, give or take. Once back home my legs were a little shaky! LOL!

We have had a very lazy weekend. Like I said, Lil B has been sick, so I have been taking care of her and she has been a huge mama's girl, so very clingy. We've napped and hung out all weekend. That's why I was trying to get Big B to go walk with me so we could have some time together, but her attitude sometimes gets the best of me. (God only knows I put my mother through some of that!) Anyway, we had a late lunch today and then tried to nap some more after my f-i-l left, but that didn't last long. We had fast food for dinner... ugh... so I'm glad I got the other workout in!

It's been awhile since I've done the Wii Active, but it was really pretty good tonight. I worked out for about 20 minutes and burned 134.7 calories. I updated my weight and profile on there tonight and from the last time I worked out I had lost 5 pounds! Still sitting right around 173, but I'm determined to get back in the groove and really shed some pounds by the summer, where I have set my goal of losing almost if not all of the weight I wanted to lose. SO GOTTA GET WITH IT!!! Time will run out on me if I don't hurry... LOL!

Still sipping on some water, then I'm off to bed. Staying home in the morning with a sick baby while the hubby has doctor appointments, then headed to work later in the day. Hope she gets to feeling better!

Til next time~

Embarrassed...

2010-01-30T20:34:00.000-08:00

The company I work for comprises mostly of family and long time employees. Some newer people within the last couple of years, but we're all a pretty tight knit group. The owners of the company are a husband-wife duo and the sons, daughters, etc. all work there. The husband-wife (J & B) duo are semi-retired, so they are at their yacht (yeah, nice) for about 2 weeks, then back to the office for about 2 weeks, so on and so forth. They are the type of people who notice weight loss and are really into keeping healthy and fit, etc. They've only made a few comments here and there about my weight loss, but this last time when they got back they have made numerous comments. At first J said "well if you lose any more weight that wind out there is going to blow you away" and then B says "I bet your hubby thinks he has a whole new wife". Of course my response back was "well, that's good the wind can blow me away" and "sure he's liking it!". Then some of the ladies are just like "dang look at her, she's rocking it" and stuff like that! Then my boss complemented me on doing such a great job with really sticking to my healthier lifestyle and wanted to let me know that it really shows and to keep with it. I even had one of our customers comment on losing weight... I hadn't seen her in 2 years and she said "wow, you've lost a lot of weight and look great". While this is great, it's a little embarrassing because I've never really had people make a big deal over me like that! I guess it helps in making me want to continue because people are taking notice.

I did get contacts recently and got a new hair style, so my overall look has been totally different. Last weekend I did a little shopping and got some new clothes, large shirts thank you(!), and new heels, so that has made a huge difference in the way I am feeling about my looks, so maybe that's why people are noticing. It's hard for me to have all that attention, so I just try to take it in stride. This past week was the first time that I "saw" the weight loss, which I have had a hard time with... actually seeing the results because I have just always seen myself as "mom, wife, extra baggage from it all". My healthier lifestyle has become very important to me, but I want to look good too! Hope that it continues til the goal mark!

Til next time~

Steady

2010-01-29T06:38:00.000-08:00

Ok, what gives... I have been holding steady at 173 the last 4 weeks! Guess it's better than going up, right? Trying to get in more exercise. When the weather is nice, I walk... it rained yesterday! Go figure. It wouldn't be so bad if I could go walk everyday, because I think I would do it no matter what the weather was, but most of the time I have the girls with me, and although I may be able to torture myself, I can't torture them! Anyway, later post... gotta work!

A new style...

2010-01-22T11:29:00.000-08:00

Amazing what a hair cut can do for your spirit... wish I could post a pic, but I don't have the cord for my phone right now. Spent more than I wanted (ugh!) but I got a great cut, so I guess it's a give and take! Feel better (some). Now just ready for the day to be over. It's so quiet in the office, so I'm having a hard time getting motivated, and half the people are not here, other half are leaving early, so there's not much going on. I guess it will be good catch up time...

Well, I'll post a picture of the new do later. Til then~

It's a blah week...

2010-01-22T08:14:00.000-08:00

And I "think" I'm just ready for the weekend. My dog is driving me crazy (I absolutely hate puppy stage), my emotions are so freakin' out of wack, and I'm in need of a "break". Wonder if Flo's about to be here? Talk about PMDD - I think I should see my doctor about that... actually I think I should go visit just to find out why I'm so hot and cold all the time. It's getting to be annoying! And everyone in the house feels it... I hate being a woman! So, I'm in my self-pitty spot right now, so be it!

Finally some warmth!

2010-01-18T20:46:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh... my Texas winter is back! It was so nice this weekend, and was over 60* again today. Hopefully this warmer weather will continue... I'm sure our electric bill will appreciate that!

It was finally warm enough tonight that I could take the girls to the park and do some walking. The hubby said he would cook dinner tonight (whoo-hoo!) and I took advantage of that time and did some walking. The park is only 1/2 a mile from our house, but you have to walk across our road (which is very busy in the evening) and it's hard to navigate a stroller and another kid walking. I used to walk there all the time when I first started walking, but realized it's just really not that safe... too bad because it gives me a whole extra mile to and from, plus keeps me from driving there. But, I knew it would get dark on us too. So we drove to the park, Big B headed to the swings, and I walked with Lil B in tow in the stroller. Big B came and ran with me for a bit (she was trying to "race" me), so that got some good energy going. I walked approximately a mile, maybe a little more, just not sure on the measurement of the trail at the park. And I only walk half of it (over and over) so that I can keep an eye on Big B while she plays at the playground. Then both of the girls swung for a bit as it got dark(er) and we headed home. Dinner was cooking, so we played a bit and I helped with the final prep of veggies.

Tonight we had "Swiss Chicken" which Big B says is one of her favorites. She ate a lot of it, so I would say so! She asked me yesterday if she could help with the meal plan this week and that's what she requested. Actually, she told me we haven't had that since "like, last year" so I figured it was time! It's not necessarily the healthiest... the ingredients are chicken breasts, cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, Swiss cheese, topped with croutons... but it's good! I at least opt for the "healthier" versions of the soups. We had some frozen corn and steamed fresh broccoli along with it.

Didn't get to the Wii Active tonight since I walked... I guess I'm still a little worried of overdoing things until I'm 100% back to "normal". So nice and slow I guess. But, ready to get back in the groove of things. I can definitely tell not working out will make the pounds creep back on if I don't keep a close eye on it! And that's the last thing I want to happen! I refuse to go over my 14's! I worked hard just to get there so far!

Til next time ~

It's Monday...

2010-01-18T07:51:00.000-08:00

And I actually had a great weekend!

Saturday was pretty normal... woke up (later than usual... oops!) and did the usual morning routine. The hubby was able to take half a day vacation, so we loaded up and headed to IKEA... love that place, but realize they sort of have a "monopoly" when it comes to buying some of their products. We installed a light fixture last year and the light bulb just went out... it's not a normal light bulb, so onto IKEA we had to go. The trip there was good, but the store was very crowded! Overall, fun, got a few things, then on to Cracker Barrel for dinner... plus got some much needed apple butter there (Big B is addicted!). Headed home and stopped by the store to get ice cream and a movie... "Cloudy with a Chance Meatballs" and it was cute! Then went to bed.

Got up Sunday... early this time!... got some cleaning done, breakfast, etc... the norm for a weekend. After lunch and naptime we headed to the grocery store. I've commented before that I don't like shopping with the kids... well I got a pretty good workout chasing after and wrangling my 19 month old, so I guess it has it's advantages! Then to the house and dinner... made my first ever homemade batch of red beans and rice and it turned out pretty good. After the girls were in bed I watched my shows, did a few odd and end things, then off to bed... I was beat!

Now working (yeah... blogging too!). Hopefully the week will be as good as the weekend! Wii Active tonight... finally!

Til next time ~

This is scary!

2010-01-14T08:57:00.000-08:00

Me, 6/27/09, at a Women in the Outdoors Event - P.S - if ya'll haven't done this kind of thing and you're interested at all in the outdoors, you should definitely find an event in your state! Can't wait for this year!

Anywhoooo, onto the pic...

{small, thank goodness!}

This is me at probably my heaviest... I was anywhere between 200 - 205. This was approximately a month before I started trying to lose weight. I remember going to Academy to find these clothes... the pants are size 18 and the shirt is 2X... I remember actually having difficulty finding pants to fit! That only helped me get to the point I'm at now. This picture was taken by one of the photographers roaming around for the day (so kudos to her!), but I usually don't have just random (full body/side view) pictures of myself like this!

So, I don't have a recent full body shot like this for comparison, but I'm still sitting between 173 - 175 and pant size 14 and shirt size L and XL (depends on brand). Oh, and now my hair is growing out and I don't have glasses - finally got contacts!

The picture really kind of scares me, because I was looking pretty bad! Fortunately I have had a pretty good body image, so this hasn't really bothered me in the past... so maybe that's why I've never taken the opportunity to lose weight! But that makes it difficult too, because I just kind of see myself as "one size" so I don't see the weight loss (or the weight gain!) like other people do. It's just weird!

Just thought I'd share a little "me" ~ til next time ~

My "new" ode to salad...

2010-01-11T11:49:00.000-08:00

Funny how not long ago I was sooooooo sick of salad, and now I can't seem to get enough of them! When I first started eating healthy, I threw all kinds of stuff into a salad (I guess thinking a lot will be better?) but the flavors and tastes were all so overwhelming! I literally stopped eating any kind of salad for a while... I had enough!

But what I've learned is to just put a few good things together, use good lettuce, and a good light dressing. Presto! I have been using Central Market organic salad mixes and spinach... I love the baby mixed greens... all the good stuff together. I could (and almost do) eat spinach everyday! Love it! So, that's usually my base and then some other greens and all the other good stuff... veggies, fruits, etc., etc.

And I hate restaurant salads! Ugh! I'm not crazy at all about iceberg lettuce, and even plain romaine is not my favorite anymore. So, I opt away from salad as a meal if we go somewhere.

I've really enjoyed eating better foods and trying new things. Not sure my hubby or my kids appreciate it the way I do, but it's been fun.

Happy eating ~

Um, Texas weather, where are you?!?!?

2010-01-09T06:44:00.001-08:00

Ok, if anyone is from Texas, you know it's not normally cold for very long. I believe we are on about a 2+ month spell of cold weather. And what is the temperature today, you ask?

10*!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It is below freezing. I just told Big B the temperature and she said "I don't even have clothes to go outside" and "I hope we're not going anywhere today". It's true, none of us are equipped!

So here we are in our house with the lovely heater going (gonna love the electric bill this month!)... bundled up... and I still have to take the dog out! He's getting his business done rather quickly, though!

OMG not sure how much more of this I can handle. Technically it's not that bad since I'm inside most of the time, but seriously, this is TEXAS! It's hardly ever cold here, and most of the time it can be 30* one day and 80* the next... really that's what it's like! But it's nice to have "seasons" this year... we usually don't ever experience that.

On top of it all, I'm sick, can barely talk (makes it hard w/ the girls), and the hubby is at work today; I'm ready for him to be home, and we've barely been up an hour! Come on 5 o'clock!

So enough of my rant... til next time ~

9 years in the making...

2010-01-06T21:29:00.000-08:00

Today my husband and I have been married for 9 years. It's hard to believe it's only been that long... some days it feels like it's been a lot longer! We've spent almost all of our "adult" lives together. We met when we were both 20, and married by the time he was 22 and I was 21 (almost 22). We were babies! Like probably most married couples, we've had our fair share of ups and downs, but I'm glad to have him by my side and glad we're in this together. I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world! We've got two awesome little girls that make our lives even more interesting! Here's to many more years to come...

The holiday season is over!

2010-01-03T17:25:00.000-08:00

Ok, I think now I can breathe a little. No more shopping, no more getting ready to go here or there or have someone come here, no more craziness, schedules will be back on track! The holidays are finally over! Don't get me wrong, it's all great when it's here, but it's also good to be back to "normal".

So, breakdown of the last month... the first weekend after Thanksgiving we had our family Christmas. It was early, but we knew it would be the only time everyone could work their schedules to fit. That was the weekend I got sick and that next week I went to the doctor and decided to have surgery for the hernia... yup, the surgery I never went into detail about (but I'll spare too much). Basically I was tired of feeling like crap every month or so and tired of it bothering me. So when I went in to see the surgeon while I was sick, he said he had an opening the next day and I took it. He put in a laproscope first to see what (if any hernia) he could find, found it (yay), and repaired it. Zip, zang, zoon... done and home that night. Couldn't lift more than 10 pounds for about 4 weeks (still have a few days on that) so Little B went to the grands for a week and a half. But that was some great time for Big B and us to reconnect and have some quality time... which we did! Fast forward, we get Little B back and then it's Christmas. Santa came, we celebrated with the in-laws and then had our own time. The in-laws went on to the brother-in-laws, and on their way back home passed through and got Big B so she could stay a week with them. New Year's was nothing spectacular... I'd much rather be at home that night than out partying... but then as soon as the hubby went to sleep, someone from the store called to say there was a huge plumbing leak and it was basically flooding the store... needless to say I didn't see him til the next morning. Then on to the in-laws to pick up Big B, trip to the zoo, and back home we are. Whoooo.... what a month it has been! All that in one month!!! Wow, glad it's done.

School starts on Tuesday, and life gets back to our norm. It's pretty sad when I am so used to that schedule too!

Wednesday the hubby and I celebrate 9 years of marriage. Feels like longer sometimes! But, all in all, it's been a wonderful 9 years. We've got 2 awesome little girls and some great memories... and even more in the making! We're headed to dinner and a movie that night... there's a couple of good movies out right now, so not really sure what we're planning to see yet. Guess it will depend on what's playing and the time.

Finally got out and walked yesterday morning about 2 miles. It's the most I've done since my surgery, and ready to really get back into it. My weight this past Thursday was 173.5 with total weight loss to date being 27 pounds. Very excited about that! I feel pretty good for getting almost 30 pounds off in almost 6 months, especially with the whole hernia thing going on. So the weight loss is almost all from changing my diet, because exercise lately has just not been happening! Can't wait for more to come off!

I am now off to watch "Desperate Housewives" and "Brothers and Sisters". I usually don't get into too many shows, but I just saw the last season finale of "DH" last night, so I'm hooked and just have to see what happens on tonight's episode. Also saw previews for "B & S" and it looks really good too. Guess Sunday nights will be my show night.

Til next time ~

I guess 50 is my lucky number!

2009-12-23T16:17:00.000-08:00

This is post #50! Wow, I've been busy typing away... of course not as much as some that do this daily. It's been fun, I like getting things out in the open and writing about the stuff I'm doing. But, nothing interesting today. Dentist and work... that's what my day consisted of. But, I'm very excited because Lil B is finally coming home from the grand's tonight! The grand's are coming too so we can all spend Christmas together. Still grazing in the kitchen at work... ready for the holiday food to be gone! But, still also sticking around my 175 from last week! Gotta go get ready for the evening.

Til later ~

So much for weight loss!

2009-12-21T13:28:00.000-08:00

Because I think I just gained about 10 pounds since my last post this morning! All of our subs that work for us are bringing in goodies... most have been ok (you know good stuff like fruit), but one brought in a huge sausage and cheese tray from the BEST sausage house around, so I have been making an absolute pig of myself today! Plus homemade goodies... cookies, candies... have been brought in during the course of today. So much for my diet... maybe I can wing it for the remainder of the week?!?!? Argh! Why does it have to be so hard... and it's not like I can go run yet to counteract my eating. Owell, who cares right now... just enjoy it, and get back to it next week.

Til next time ~

My weight log to date...

2009-12-21T09:07:00.000-08:00

This is from Calorie Count - http://caloriecount.about.com/

Date Weight
2009-12-18 175.00
2009-12-11 175.00
2009-12-04 178.00
2009-11-30 179.00
2009-11-20 177.00
2009-11-13 179.00
2009-11-06 178.00
2009-10-30 179.00
2009-10-23 179.50
2009-10-15 180.50
2009-10-09 181.50
2009-10-02 182.50
2009-09-25 184.00
2009-09-18 186.00
2009-09-11 188.50
2009-09-04 189.00
2009-08-28 189.50
2009-08-21 191.50
2009-08-14 194.00
2009-08-07 194.50
2009-07-31 196.00
2009-07-24 198.00
2009-07-17 200.50

Here is my weight log since July... so far so good! You know I think, yeah I've lost 25+ pounds, yeah I can see that I've lost 2 pant sizes, yeah I can see some of the difference, but then I look at this chart and see... WOW! I have lost a lot of weight! OMG - can't "weight" until the summer to see how far I come overall.

Work, work, work...

2009-12-17T12:15:00.000-08:00

Work is good today! Not quite an avalanche as I expected, and lots of things had been taken care of! But everyone expressed how glad they were I was back... it's nice to be missed!

I think I need to get sick and have surgery again (no, not really) but today's weight was 175!!!!! Yeah! That's the lowest I've been so far and who knows how long it's been that I have been that weight!

So, good day so far... til next time ~

Hi-Ho-Hi-Ho... off to work I go!

2009-12-16T22:22:00.000-08:00

So, back to work tomorrow morning!!!!!!

OMG - I don't think I'm ready to be bombarded by what I know is going to be there. My inbox will be full, if not overflowing onto the floor and the file cabinet, my desk will be covered and I will have so much to get done in 2 days for the remainder of the week! BUT, thankfully, I can check email and voice mails from home, which is what I have been doing to keep that at bay. And, other people have been taking care of the important stuff for me. So, maybe it actually won't be that bad?!?! Yeah, right, I've had a whole week off and it will be bad! I should just play the pity card the rest of the week and say I'm not up to it yet... no get me outta here!

I'm going to make a very honest statement... as much as I would LOVE to be a stay-at-home mommy/wife, I just don't think I could handle it! Granted, I have been sitting on my butt recovering from surgery, but I'm not sure I could do this daily. I have worked for so long now that it's ingrained in me somehow. Little B has been at her grandparent's since Sunday so she's not here during the day (I can't lift more than 10 pounds for 3 more weeks and she's 25!) and the hubby has been at work, and Big B is at school, so I've had the day all to myself... all by myself! Not a good combo I think... because I become a HUGE couch potato and I have watched way too much Wife Swap and Desperate Housewives that I could puke!!! OK, OK... I know it would probably be different watching the kids and actually taking care of housework, etc. but I don't think it's for me. Maybe a better job would be nice, but I think I'll stick to the working mom routine for everyone's sake! More power to the mommy's that can do it! But you know what, it's also hard being a working mommy, so power to us as well. We ALL deserve the credit for being mommys period!

Update tomorrow... I'll let you know if I survive the 8 to 5! LOL!!!

Til then ~

Once again... it's been awhile...

2009-12-11T17:17:00.000-08:00

Quick post tonight... more of a quick update. I actually had to have SURGERY this week! Wednesday they did the surgery, found a hernia, and repaired it. More details to follow. I'm still in kind of a fog from the medicine!

Til later ~

Love the in-laws!

2009-11-21T09:58:00.000-08:00

We're here visting with my in-laws right now. Well, technically my m-i-l is working (she's a dog groomer and works from her garage) and my f-i-l and hubby are out shopping, Lil B is down for a nap, Big B is talking with my m-i-l and watching TV, and I just finished a workout on the treadmill and am now blogging... so anyway, we're here!

I love my in-laws... and I'm not being sarcastic about that at all. They are the best in the whole world! Just want everyone to know that!!!

This morning we had breakfast burritos with sausage, eggs, hash browns, and cheese on ww tortillas... not feeling too hot right now! But, I walked on the treadmill for a little bit... and actually ran a little bit! I can't believe that I can actually run on a treadmill and I don't feel like I'm killing myself! Thinking my next big purchase may be a treadmill (Craig's List anyone?). Just need to work on my endurance... but I could really burn some calories and fat on that thing!

Well, I'm off to shower and watch a movie with Big B and wait on everyone to finish up for the remainder of the morning so we can all get together and do something.

Til next time ~

Getting back on track...

2009-11-20T06:30:00.000-08:00

2 pounds down from last week! Weigh in today was 177!!! Feeling better, been eating pretty decent this week, working out some. Keep it up and get a little better and this fat will just melt away... motivation, that's what it's going to take. Trying to stay positive and upbeat during this transformation!

On to my day... can't wait to go visit the in-laws this weekend, at least for Sat. Saw them for a little bit last night as they were passing through town. Just wish they were a little closer and we could see them more often. My kids are crazy about their grandparents!

Til next time ~

Wanna Wii???

2009-11-19T21:03:00.000-08:00

Back to the Wii tonight for some EA Active! I've done a few workouts sporadically, but not too much with the whole hernia thing and just being too tired to do it lately... OK, so I know that's total cop-out, but owell. I worked out for about 25 minutes and burned 163 calories. Not too bad, but I'm sure not enough. I kept my calorie intake to about 1600 today.

Didn't have the greatest of breakfasts, but I had a Kashi bar, banana, and string cheese with coffee. Then for morning snack I had a Yoplait FiberOne yogurt. For lunch I made an awesome English muffin/turkey sausage patty/egg/cheese sandwich... it was so good... and I had a huge salad and red pear plus a diet root beer to go with it. For snack I had 2 Wasa multigrain flatbreads spread with Laughing Cow Swiss cheese and a cup of unsweetened applesauce. For dinner we went to McAlister's Deli where I had half a Chicago Italian Sausage sandwich on ww hoagie with a garden salad. Then I'm ending the night with a couple of Hershey's Bliss dark chocolates and a few splashes of red wine.

Here's a pic from lunch... yummy!

Sometimes I feel like this when I'm eating :)

Ha, ha... these are just our tortoise pets. We have 3 Sulcatas (the smallest one just isn't in this pic).

Now I'm off to get my lunch ready for tomorrow. Going to try some chicken with pesto on top of a salad... mmmmm!

Til then ~

Doctor, doctor...

2009-11-17T13:37:00.000-08:00

Went to the doctor today… and so far everything checks out fine! This was my second surgery consult for my “hernia” or what we think now is a hernia in the making. Last month when I went for my first consultation, I had some odd symptoms that the doctor wanted to check over the month (that had to do with my cycle), and then nothing! What he thinks happened was after my c-section there was some uterine tissue that attached itself to my suture line and “pops” up every now and then. (He’s a new doctor and I really like him; very thorough and attentive so I knew I would be in good hands if I did have to have surgery.) Anyway, my symptoms were not really something that he’s seen before, so he was pretty excited that I was coming back today to see what more we had to do… then nothing, but that’s good because if I can avoid surgery, I will for now. So, I guess it’s now a wait and see process from here on; he said over time that I might develop a hernia, but maybe not. Hopefully everything will be fine and I won’t have anything to worry about. He also practices in weight loss surgeries and weight loss management that the hubby and I talked to him a little about. Thankfully we’re not in the “morbidly obese” category, but we do have some family histories that could cause us to both have problems later on, so we’re definitely doing the right thing in taking control of it.

Well, til next time ~

Arm pit farts...

2009-11-15T20:04:00.000-08:00

My oldest thinks it's hilarious to do arm pit farts. And my baby thinks they're funny too, laughs, and tries to copy her big sister. So glad that I have "girly" girls! Not! And far from it!

Well today I slept late... til around 8:30 when I heard my phone notify me that I had a text message. I didn't hear Lil B yet, so I laid there a little longer. Then got up and checked my message and it was a video of Big B shooting her bow. The hubby then notified me that she had scared away a 7 point buck and they were on their way home. Too bad, didn't get anything yet!

This weekend's eating hasn't been the best, but I did shop today for some produce and such, so back to it this week. I still make healthy choices overall, so I think a day or so every now and then isn't going to hurt too much. But, it's the getting back on track that I've been able to keep up with. That's what counts!

I went to Target today and made my way to the clothes section. I wound up not getting pants, because I always get jeans... and technically I'm not supposed to wear jeans to work, but we've all been doing it and getting away with it. I did buy some shirts though. I'm into an X-large now (was at 2XXL... ugh)... if my boobies were just a little smaller it would be better! Did try some pants on and I fit into large and size 14. Just not finding what I like yet. Hopefully by the time I really need to shop I'll be down a little more... when we shopped at WM last night, I did find some jeans (see... but they were $9!) and they were 14 and I swear I looked smaller just putting them on. I guess it's because I've been wearing baggy pants this whole time! So I'll stretch those as long as possible.

Work in the morning... hopefully this week will be better. Work is very, very stressful right now! I'll just leave it at that.

Salad for lunch tomorrow, then homemade burgers (on WW buns!) for dinner (maybe I can sneak some good stuff in mine)... plus plan to walk after work and get back on the Wii this week for some much needed exercise. Motivation is kicking in slowly but surely!

Til then ~