FOCUS...FOCUS...FOCUS... 9 Weeks In...3 Weeks to go...and I know that it is going to take me longer. I just know it.
I am not sure how I could kick this up any more notches unless I quit my job and live in the gym. I have seen some sneak peaks of the other competitors 8 week progress photos and I can tell you that I will not be winning this competition. Haha. Pretty sad that I already know that and super frustrating because there is NO WAY that these people can have that much of a transformation without dedicating their lives to the gym.
I will not give up. I will not quit. I will commit to another round if I have to.
I need to up my calories...in protein/veggies. I just am trying to figure out how. I need to push myself harder and lift heavier weights. Focus...FOCUS!!!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Monday, May 20, 2013
Phase 3...Week 9
Phase 3...Week 9
Time to tear this up over the next four weeks! It will all be about HIIT. (high interval intensity training) plyometrics, super-sets and active rests. Pure fat-burning phase baby. I will be giving it my all with high hopes for some serious results! If not...I tried. I will just continue the journey until I get where I desire to be and than on to the quest of maintenance.
My eating has been on point with my ultimate snack being a banana with almond butter and a dabble of honey. :) It hits my sweets cravings so that I feel like I am eating a treat. I need to work on getting more protein and eating more calories...It has been a bit difficult doing this at work. I have got to do this though...this is the key to keeping the muscle that I have worked so hard for.
Exercising has only been difficult on Day 6. I am so exhausted by then, however...I have a new home gym and my weights were delivered so there really are no excuses! :)
Is everyone still doing their best on the squats challenge and the challenge for the contest? Or have you all thrown in the towel? You will have your "After" pictures to produce in 4 weeks as well! Are you ready for that? It is HARD to stay motivated. It is HARD to stay focused and determined. It is HARDER to be out of shape and unhealthy...more expensive too.
Time to tear this up over the next four weeks! It will all be about HIIT. (high interval intensity training) plyometrics, super-sets and active rests. Pure fat-burning phase baby. I will be giving it my all with high hopes for some serious results! If not...I tried. I will just continue the journey until I get where I desire to be and than on to the quest of maintenance.
My eating has been on point with my ultimate snack being a banana with almond butter and a dabble of honey. :) It hits my sweets cravings so that I feel like I am eating a treat. I need to work on getting more protein and eating more calories...It has been a bit difficult doing this at work. I have got to do this though...this is the key to keeping the muscle that I have worked so hard for.
Exercising has only been difficult on Day 6. I am so exhausted by then, however...I have a new home gym and my weights were delivered so there really are no excuses! :)
Is everyone still doing their best on the squats challenge and the challenge for the contest? Or have you all thrown in the towel? You will have your "After" pictures to produce in 4 weeks as well! Are you ready for that? It is HARD to stay motivated. It is HARD to stay focused and determined. It is HARDER to be out of shape and unhealthy...more expensive too.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Week 8! Mothers Day Fun!
It is week 8 friends and I am super excited to kick things up a notch with my new home gym! My amazing husband surprised me with turning a whole room in our home in to my very own gym! He had a TV mounted on the wall and moved the treadmill, spinning bike and had the weights set up in it. There is also a barbell with weights being delivered this week! How spoiled am I??? This is so exciting for me and the boys are just thrilled! We have a huge punching bag that has never been used so we are going to get a stand and have that up there as well! A little boxing/kickboxing anyone? Sooo exciting in this house today!
I took the boys for a Mother's Day hike today and they had so much fun. It was a great day and I hope you all were able to enjoy your day and get out there and exercise! Are you ready to rock this week to a new level?
This week is the last week of Phase 2 so I am super focused on hitting it hard this week so that when next week comes I will push stronger and harder to the finish line! Phase 3 is nothing but HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) so I am hoping for some serious results!
Did everyone eat healthy today even though it was Mother's Day? ;)
I took the boys for a Mother's Day hike today and they had so much fun. It was a great day and I hope you all were able to enjoy your day and get out there and exercise! Are you ready to rock this week to a new level?
This week is the last week of Phase 2 so I am super focused on hitting it hard this week so that when next week comes I will push stronger and harder to the finish line! Phase 3 is nothing but HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) so I am hoping for some serious results!
Did everyone eat healthy today even though it was Mother's Day? ;)
Thursday, May 9, 2013
88 calories
I got in a fight with my treadmill tonight. I am so mad at her I could sell her!
I had to work out from home due to some things I needed to take care of for the boys. I was tempted to skip the whole thing but then my common sense kicked in and I made myself do it. I knew I would be so mad at myself tomorrow if I didn't so I just needed to get moving!
I decided to do a full on booty workout tonight. I will post the workout moves that I did after this. I then did 30 minutes on my treadmill...this is where the fight took place. I ran at a 2% incline at 5.8-6.2 speed and after 30 minutes it said I burned 88 calories. EIGHTY EIGHT CALORIES! I can burn 100 calories doing 40 jumping jacks, 30 crunches, 20 squats and 10 push-ups and be done in 10 minutes! Super annoyed by this being at the gym I can blow through that on the treadmill in 6 minutes. So! This brings me to question...how do we know which treadmill is right? Hmm... I am going with the gym treadmill being I was completely drenched and I know I burned more than 88 calories.
Needless to say, my treadmill is going to miss me.
I had to work out from home due to some things I needed to take care of for the boys. I was tempted to skip the whole thing but then my common sense kicked in and I made myself do it. I knew I would be so mad at myself tomorrow if I didn't so I just needed to get moving!
I decided to do a full on booty workout tonight. I will post the workout moves that I did after this. I then did 30 minutes on my treadmill...this is where the fight took place. I ran at a 2% incline at 5.8-6.2 speed and after 30 minutes it said I burned 88 calories. EIGHTY EIGHT CALORIES! I can burn 100 calories doing 40 jumping jacks, 30 crunches, 20 squats and 10 push-ups and be done in 10 minutes! Super annoyed by this being at the gym I can blow through that on the treadmill in 6 minutes. So! This brings me to question...how do we know which treadmill is right? Hmm... I am going with the gym treadmill being I was completely drenched and I know I burned more than 88 calories.
Needless to say, my treadmill is going to miss me.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Beauty and the Beasts
Happy Tuesday my Beauties and Beasts!
It is Week 7 for me and I feel like I am failing miserably. Haha...Not Funny. I seriously feel like I have been working my ASS off and have really nothing to show for it. I feel the same...I look the same...Week 12 is going to fly here as quickly as can be and I will laugh if my before pictures look the same as my after pictures. It has me left to wonder...
How long does it Really take to have a body transformation? Is 12 weeks really even possible? I look around the gym and see the same people I have seen since October...they look exactly the same. I notice the same girl that I call muffin top...muffins are still there. I see the guy with the really small legs and pectorals however, massive biceps. I see the gal on the treadmill that is probably a cardio hamster and I am always left wondering how her thighs don't start fires. The friction has GOT to be painful. Baby powder anyone? Ouch!
What makes us...me...different from these beautiful creatures who have the most perfect bodies? You know the ones...they seem to be sculpted perfectly and look amazing in bathing suits. The ones we stare at and search (behind our sunglasses) while we ourselves are covered in some sort of a cloak hoping to find some sort of imperfection...dimple...Something! (Or is this just me?) Call me shallow...whatever...I don't care. I want to be like them.
I have nothing against overweight people...I like them just fine. I just want more for myself. This is about me...not you if you are overweight. Me. Selfish right? :)
I want to live at least one moment in my life looking how I want to look and knowing that I worked damn hard for it. I would feel like I was giving myself back to the great God Almighty who chose to create me.
I owe Him.
It is Week 7 for me and I feel like I am failing miserably. Haha...Not Funny. I seriously feel like I have been working my ASS off and have really nothing to show for it. I feel the same...I look the same...Week 12 is going to fly here as quickly as can be and I will laugh if my before pictures look the same as my after pictures. It has me left to wonder...
How long does it Really take to have a body transformation? Is 12 weeks really even possible? I look around the gym and see the same people I have seen since October...they look exactly the same. I notice the same girl that I call muffin top...muffins are still there. I see the guy with the really small legs and pectorals however, massive biceps. I see the gal on the treadmill that is probably a cardio hamster and I am always left wondering how her thighs don't start fires. The friction has GOT to be painful. Baby powder anyone? Ouch!
What makes us...me...different from these beautiful creatures who have the most perfect bodies? You know the ones...they seem to be sculpted perfectly and look amazing in bathing suits. The ones we stare at and search (behind our sunglasses) while we ourselves are covered in some sort of a cloak hoping to find some sort of imperfection...dimple...Something! (Or is this just me?) Call me shallow...whatever...I don't care. I want to be like them.
I have nothing against overweight people...I like them just fine. I just want more for myself. This is about me...not you if you are overweight. Me. Selfish right? :)
I want to live at least one moment in my life looking how I want to look and knowing that I worked damn hard for it. I would feel like I was giving myself back to the great God Almighty who chose to create me.
I owe Him.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Pretty sure I could eat a horse...
Phase 2...Week ...Half Way Baby!
Pretty sure I could eat a horse...
Adding the cardio in to the mix has made me ravishing for food. As I was rocking out my cardio tonight at the gym all I could think about was eating. Haha. The only thing I did eat when I got home...well drink...was my protein shake. Man, was it good! I gulped er' down in a few minutes and was completely content after it hit my stomach. Now, being a few hours later...the horse is sounding pretty darn good as well. I will refrain and sleep on the little hunger pangs as I hate the feeling of food sitting in my stomach at night...I will wait and have an amazing breakfast tomorrow. I have earned it!
Being at the half way point, I still cannot seem to notice any changes in particular. I do feel stronger and can tell in my arms that a little sculpting is happening, but a long way to go for me to be where I want to be. This next six weeks I am going to blast through with the highest and best effort that I can give...to maybe prove a point. What is that point? Not sure...maybe to prove to the voices in my head that I CAN have a body transformation. That I CAN be super fit and toned and have muscles. That I CAN look good in a bikini! That I don't have to be all soft and mushy and lumpy and bumpy and gross feeling. If I can do it...so can you. That is what I will prove...that we all can do it. We just need to have more self control. To want the very best for ourselves. The hardest part...is getting to the gym. Is to convince ourselves to workout. After I workout I feel so damn good that I just cannot wait until the next time I get to go do it!
A friend of mine (the lovely Cynthia) has a Nike Fuel band...and she posted last night that she had to hit her calories burned number before she went to bed so she was rocking out planks, jabs, push-ups, sit-ups, jogging in place until she hit that magical number. I LOVE THIS IDEA! It's like having a little accountability partner right on your wrist! I think I will have to look in to one of these little guys this weekend! Maybe we should all get one and post our results to hold us all accountable! That could be fun! What do you think?
Pretty sure I could eat a horse...
Adding the cardio in to the mix has made me ravishing for food. As I was rocking out my cardio tonight at the gym all I could think about was eating. Haha. The only thing I did eat when I got home...well drink...was my protein shake. Man, was it good! I gulped er' down in a few minutes and was completely content after it hit my stomach. Now, being a few hours later...the horse is sounding pretty darn good as well. I will refrain and sleep on the little hunger pangs as I hate the feeling of food sitting in my stomach at night...I will wait and have an amazing breakfast tomorrow. I have earned it!
Being at the half way point, I still cannot seem to notice any changes in particular. I do feel stronger and can tell in my arms that a little sculpting is happening, but a long way to go for me to be where I want to be. This next six weeks I am going to blast through with the highest and best effort that I can give...to maybe prove a point. What is that point? Not sure...maybe to prove to the voices in my head that I CAN have a body transformation. That I CAN be super fit and toned and have muscles. That I CAN look good in a bikini! That I don't have to be all soft and mushy and lumpy and bumpy and gross feeling. If I can do it...so can you. That is what I will prove...that we all can do it. We just need to have more self control. To want the very best for ourselves. The hardest part...is getting to the gym. Is to convince ourselves to workout. After I workout I feel so damn good that I just cannot wait until the next time I get to go do it!
A friend of mine (the lovely Cynthia) has a Nike Fuel band...and she posted last night that she had to hit her calories burned number before she went to bed so she was rocking out planks, jabs, push-ups, sit-ups, jogging in place until she hit that magical number. I LOVE THIS IDEA! It's like having a little accountability partner right on your wrist! I think I will have to look in to one of these little guys this weekend! Maybe we should all get one and post our results to hold us all accountable! That could be fun! What do you think?
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Week 6
Week 6...
Back to the gym baby...and thank the good Lord that I made myself go because what a great workout! I feel Fantastic! I even wore the tightest gray spandex pants that I have! For those of you who even read this stuff and those who don't, you will or won't remember that I have decided to wear the tightest, most cellulite producing outfits that I can find. Why in the world you ask? Because I sure as hell squat lower, lunge deeper and squeeze harder while picturing some wicked cool force eating and blasting away any dimples, lumps and bumps. It works ladies...so do it. However... I will caution you. There is still a tasteful way to wearing the tight clothes and then there is the disgraceful way. I seen the disgraceful way tonight at the gym....
There was this girl...wearing see through shorts...tight spandex shorts. And let me tell you, you could see everrrrrything. It was gross. Don't be that girl. There is just nothing cute about it and if she wanted negative attention, she sure got it.
Today for breakfast I made:
A 5 egg white omelet type thing with only egg whites
A 1/2 slice Ezekiel English Muffin thing
Almond butter
1/2 Tbsp sugar free blackberry jam
Coffee w/ 1 pkt Truvia and 1 Tbsp all natural creamer (35 cals)
Snack:
Greek yogurt w/ Chia seeds
Handful of roasted chickpeas
Lunch:
2 Turkey Protein Balls w/mustard
1/4 cup black beans
1 cup mixed steamed veges (broccoli, cauliflower, snap peas, carrots & water chestnuts)
1/2 grapefruit
Snack:
2 boiled eggs (only ate 1 yolk)
Apple
Dinner:
Protein Shake (After Workout) w/1 Tbsp. Flax seeds
*Gallon of Water
*Large glass of iced green tea
I took my vitamins, omegas and fat burners...
It was a good day! I am hoping you are all working hard at the Challenge I put out there! I am excited to see good things from you! I have been in complete vacation mode so I am going to focus really hard this next few months to rock this out! I have plans to be in a bikini so if I don't want to be embarrassed...I must keep working! I have this goal that while on vacation this summer I want to go paddle-boarding...in a bikini. What is your goal you keep focused on to push yourself? An outfit? Bikini? Vacation? Wedding???
Back to the gym baby...and thank the good Lord that I made myself go because what a great workout! I feel Fantastic! I even wore the tightest gray spandex pants that I have! For those of you who even read this stuff and those who don't, you will or won't remember that I have decided to wear the tightest, most cellulite producing outfits that I can find. Why in the world you ask? Because I sure as hell squat lower, lunge deeper and squeeze harder while picturing some wicked cool force eating and blasting away any dimples, lumps and bumps. It works ladies...so do it. However... I will caution you. There is still a tasteful way to wearing the tight clothes and then there is the disgraceful way. I seen the disgraceful way tonight at the gym....
There was this girl...wearing see through shorts...tight spandex shorts. And let me tell you, you could see everrrrrything. It was gross. Don't be that girl. There is just nothing cute about it and if she wanted negative attention, she sure got it.
Today for breakfast I made:
A 5 egg white omelet type thing with only egg whites
A 1/2 slice Ezekiel English Muffin thing
Almond butter
1/2 Tbsp sugar free blackberry jam
Coffee w/ 1 pkt Truvia and 1 Tbsp all natural creamer (35 cals)
Snack:
Greek yogurt w/ Chia seeds
Handful of roasted chickpeas
Lunch:
2 Turkey Protein Balls w/mustard
1/4 cup black beans
1 cup mixed steamed veges (broccoli, cauliflower, snap peas, carrots & water chestnuts)
1/2 grapefruit
Snack:
2 boiled eggs (only ate 1 yolk)
Apple
Dinner:
Protein Shake (After Workout) w/1 Tbsp. Flax seeds
*Gallon of Water
*Large glass of iced green tea
I took my vitamins, omegas and fat burners...
It was a good day! I am hoping you are all working hard at the Challenge I put out there! I am excited to see good things from you! I have been in complete vacation mode so I am going to focus really hard this next few months to rock this out! I have plans to be in a bikini so if I don't want to be embarrassed...I must keep working! I have this goal that while on vacation this summer I want to go paddle-boarding...in a bikini. What is your goal you keep focused on to push yourself? An outfit? Bikini? Vacation? Wedding???
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Re-Focused
Week 5...
This was a rough week for me...I was looking forward to adding the cardio to the weight training at the beginning of the week but by Friday I was so spent I couldn't even see straight. I was physically exhausted. I was supposed to work out Friday and Saturday but this did not happen. I didn't even work out today. The good news? I needed the break and am back on track and super motivated to rock out this week! I had gone for 5 weeks with no meal cheating, etc. I will have to admit that we went out with friends and I enjoyed a few vodka's on the the rocks. The good news? I budgeted the calories in to my daily allotted calories. There was delicious food all around me to include pizza and I held strong. If I am going to blow my exercise routine at least I didn't turn the whole weekend into a binge weekend on top of it right?
Today I did my grocery shopping and decided that I will be changing some things up this week with my food options. I finally bought Greek yogurt so I will have that with some veges for one of my snack options. I will boil some eggs to enjoy for a snack as well for the additional protein. Who knows what this week will bring me but I do believe I have the hang of the healthy eating so will stick to that plan. With missing the two days of workouts, I will somehow incorporate maybe two longer sessions this week so make up for it.
I made a batch of the spicy chickpeas today to snack on during the week and also sliced up a banana and put a dab of almond butter sandwiched between two slices and then dipped half into melted dark chocolate to freeze. :) This makes me so happy you have no idea.
Did you all work out this weekend? Eat right? Still on track? I am hoping that you all were stronger than I was this weekend. If you are on the same page as me from the weekend, let's get back on track and super focused for this week! Don't let a mess up ruin your focus. It is all about the big picture!
This was a rough week for me...I was looking forward to adding the cardio to the weight training at the beginning of the week but by Friday I was so spent I couldn't even see straight. I was physically exhausted. I was supposed to work out Friday and Saturday but this did not happen. I didn't even work out today. The good news? I needed the break and am back on track and super motivated to rock out this week! I had gone for 5 weeks with no meal cheating, etc. I will have to admit that we went out with friends and I enjoyed a few vodka's on the the rocks. The good news? I budgeted the calories in to my daily allotted calories. There was delicious food all around me to include pizza and I held strong. If I am going to blow my exercise routine at least I didn't turn the whole weekend into a binge weekend on top of it right?
Today I did my grocery shopping and decided that I will be changing some things up this week with my food options. I finally bought Greek yogurt so I will have that with some veges for one of my snack options. I will boil some eggs to enjoy for a snack as well for the additional protein. Who knows what this week will bring me but I do believe I have the hang of the healthy eating so will stick to that plan. With missing the two days of workouts, I will somehow incorporate maybe two longer sessions this week so make up for it.
I made a batch of the spicy chickpeas today to snack on during the week and also sliced up a banana and put a dab of almond butter sandwiched between two slices and then dipped half into melted dark chocolate to freeze. :) This makes me so happy you have no idea.
Did you all work out this weekend? Eat right? Still on track? I am hoping that you all were stronger than I was this weekend. If you are on the same page as me from the weekend, let's get back on track and super focused for this week! Don't let a mess up ruin your focus. It is all about the big picture!
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Inner Demons...
What destroys you?
The inner demons that we all create for ourselves are what destroys us. Today was one of those days. My little Conner was upset last night because I am not home very often. And of course, the mom guilt kicks in so today this was all I could think about. How can I continue to do this and still make time for my family? I have talked with the hubs and we are actually going to research an at home gym. Nothing too expensive but enough to get me through this and to continue my journey. I am not one of those people who purchases gym equipment and doesn't use it, so it surely wouldn't go to waste. It would be a great way to actually involve the boys and incorporate a little workout together! It would be a great experience for them I would think. They both see me eating healthy and they both mentioned that they would like to change some of their eating habits as well. Wouldn't that be wonderful to have the whole family involved with a much healthier lifestyle? (Hint, Hint...Hubs)
Because of these demons, it was the hardest workout to get through that I have done thus far. Every voice in my head (there are several) were telling me to quit. Telling me that I am so selfish to put myself before the kids. I feel it, I hear it and I don't like it. While working out my knee hurt so bad, my hip felt out of place and I felt completely drained. This is how I know...our minds are so powerful and will conquer your body if you let it. I am having to dig realllllly deep at this point to find some inner strength to continue this journey. Tomorrow is Friday...normally a rest day, however I will have to workout 6 days a week now. Dear Lord, please let this work so it is worth it. I wonder if the maintenance is just as hard...or a lot easier once you hit the goal. Personal Trainer friend...can you answer this for me please? :)
I haven't heard much from the contestants on this challenge? Are you all still working out? Still motivated? Where are you on the squats challenge? What day? I am praying you are all kicking some serious butt...literally!!
The inner demons that we all create for ourselves are what destroys us. Today was one of those days. My little Conner was upset last night because I am not home very often. And of course, the mom guilt kicks in so today this was all I could think about. How can I continue to do this and still make time for my family? I have talked with the hubs and we are actually going to research an at home gym. Nothing too expensive but enough to get me through this and to continue my journey. I am not one of those people who purchases gym equipment and doesn't use it, so it surely wouldn't go to waste. It would be a great way to actually involve the boys and incorporate a little workout together! It would be a great experience for them I would think. They both see me eating healthy and they both mentioned that they would like to change some of their eating habits as well. Wouldn't that be wonderful to have the whole family involved with a much healthier lifestyle? (Hint, Hint...Hubs)
Because of these demons, it was the hardest workout to get through that I have done thus far. Every voice in my head (there are several) were telling me to quit. Telling me that I am so selfish to put myself before the kids. I feel it, I hear it and I don't like it. While working out my knee hurt so bad, my hip felt out of place and I felt completely drained. This is how I know...our minds are so powerful and will conquer your body if you let it. I am having to dig realllllly deep at this point to find some inner strength to continue this journey. Tomorrow is Friday...normally a rest day, however I will have to workout 6 days a week now. Dear Lord, please let this work so it is worth it. I wonder if the maintenance is just as hard...or a lot easier once you hit the goal. Personal Trainer friend...can you answer this for me please? :)
I haven't heard much from the contestants on this challenge? Are you all still working out? Still motivated? Where are you on the squats challenge? What day? I am praying you are all kicking some serious butt...literally!!
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
This Kinda Sucks
This Kinda Sucks...
Just being honest. To be this strict in my workout is crazy.. Seriously...crazyyyy. I am on Day 30 today.
30 Days and No chocolate (My favorite)
30 Days and No Sugar
30 Days and No Diet delicious Dr. Pepper (even though I was close to caving today)
30 Days and No Processed Foods
30 Days and No Alcohol...(well except for the weekend of week one...hey...don't judge it was a vodka (Ciroc of course) on the rocks)
30 Days Clean And Sober Baby....haha.
I was so busy at work today that I had about 10 minutes to scarf down my salad, which was fine because I normally gag those down anyways. After work, I ran to the gym and did an hour long BodyPump class. After the class I had to run across town (30 minute drive one way) to pick my boys up from football practice and then home to make them a sandwich before bed. While they were eating I jumped on the treadmill because I had to incorporate a 30 minute cardio session. The whole time I was trying to jog on the treadmill I have the hubs staring at me from the bed and taking pictures. Really? I think this weekend we will be taking the treadmill to the upstairs guest room so I can have some peace! After the treadmill I tucked the kiddos in bed with prayers and then whirled up a protein shake. These shakes kill me sometimes...I think it is all the bubbles.
But seriously, this plan is no joke. I am busting my butt here...I am sore...tired and wishing I was a 'Kept' wife so that I could have more time to take care of me without having to run all over the world juggling everything that all of us women do. And yes, at that time...feel free hubs to take all the pictures you want! Until then...burn OUT. :) Love my man...really, I do. Haha. Do any of your significant others find enjoyment of watching you work out??? Maybe he should workout WITH me?? wink wink
Just being honest. To be this strict in my workout is crazy.. Seriously...crazyyyy. I am on Day 30 today.
30 Days and No chocolate (My favorite)
30 Days and No Sugar
30 Days and No Diet delicious Dr. Pepper (even though I was close to caving today)
30 Days and No Processed Foods
30 Days and No Alcohol...(well except for the weekend of week one...hey...don't judge it was a vodka (Ciroc of course) on the rocks)
30 Days Clean And Sober Baby....haha.
I was so busy at work today that I had about 10 minutes to scarf down my salad, which was fine because I normally gag those down anyways. After work, I ran to the gym and did an hour long BodyPump class. After the class I had to run across town (30 minute drive one way) to pick my boys up from football practice and then home to make them a sandwich before bed. While they were eating I jumped on the treadmill because I had to incorporate a 30 minute cardio session. The whole time I was trying to jog on the treadmill I have the hubs staring at me from the bed and taking pictures. Really? I think this weekend we will be taking the treadmill to the upstairs guest room so I can have some peace! After the treadmill I tucked the kiddos in bed with prayers and then whirled up a protein shake. These shakes kill me sometimes...I think it is all the bubbles.
But seriously, this plan is no joke. I am busting my butt here...I am sore...tired and wishing I was a 'Kept' wife so that I could have more time to take care of me without having to run all over the world juggling everything that all of us women do. And yes, at that time...feel free hubs to take all the pictures you want! Until then...burn OUT. :) Love my man...really, I do. Haha. Do any of your significant others find enjoyment of watching you work out??? Maybe he should workout WITH me?? wink wink
Monday, April 22, 2013
Phase 2...Week 5...Day 29
Today has been a beautiful milestone for me! To go four weeks following a plan and committing to the process has not been easy. There have been temptations to eat, drink and be lazy. Today was one of them. I was so tired after work today...it would have been so easy to go home, slip on the pj's and crawl right in to bed. Instead, with the cheers of the hubs...off to the workout I went. I completed an arm work out, a series of stomach exercises and added 30 minutes of cardio at the end. I chose to do the treadmill today and am proud to say that I jogged the whole darn thing!
After my workout I made my favorite chocolate banana protein shake...gulped it down and then off to say prayers with my little ones prior to getting ready for bed myself. This has been and is a big commitment and it has not been easy for my kids or my husband. Being away at the gym several nights a week is tough! I let my boys know that this is like a science project for mama...a 12 week project to see if it is possible to not only lose weight but to transform my body to have muscles! My youngest said, "Impossible. Sorry mom, but it won't happen." Well, I can see he is my biggest supporter! :)
I think I need a motivation piece. Maybe I should go try on bikini's...pick one out and hang it so that I can see it every single day. What do you do to motivate yourself? A dream board? A reward of some sort?
After my workout I made my favorite chocolate banana protein shake...gulped it down and then off to say prayers with my little ones prior to getting ready for bed myself. This has been and is a big commitment and it has not been easy for my kids or my husband. Being away at the gym several nights a week is tough! I let my boys know that this is like a science project for mama...a 12 week project to see if it is possible to not only lose weight but to transform my body to have muscles! My youngest said, "Impossible. Sorry mom, but it won't happen." Well, I can see he is my biggest supporter! :)
I think I need a motivation piece. Maybe I should go try on bikini's...pick one out and hang it so that I can see it every single day. What do you do to motivate yourself? A dream board? A reward of some sort?
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Phase 2...Here We Come!
Phase 1..Day 28...
What a GORGEOUS weekend! I got my first little burn of the summer season. This I am not excited about being that I put sunscreen on but you can see every little place that I missed! To include a spot right on my forehead and my left ear!
Weekends are Always the most difficult to stay on the eating plan. On Friday night, the vote from the hubs and the kiddos was to order pizza but I made salmon with a side of veges for myself. It just didn't taste like the delicious hot cheese and pepperoni I caught glimpses of my husband and boys chowing down on. I will admit though, that my salmon was prepared MAGNIFICENTLY and I had no complaints knowing that my arteries are completely clean and free from the lard build-up that they all have subjected themselves to (guilt free I am sure).
On Saturday, the boys had football games and we knew we would be there for several hours, to include through lunch. I went to the gym in the morning so was left absolutely ravenous. We made a pit stop to the grocery store and loaded up on snacks and cold drinks for the kids. I had no clue what to grab so I found 100 calorie pack of almonds, an apple and a grapefruit. I felt this could hold me over until we returned home where I could enjoy the left over salmon and more veges!
Today is Sunday...the last day of Phase 1 for me. I am super excited to get on with the fat burning phase! However, a little stressed about the time commitment this will take. I seriously cannot tell a difference in my clothes other than my chest seems to be shrinking. :) I had to weigh myself which I did not want to do until the very end but I had to for the contest. I have only lost 3 lbs. This is when most people would throw in the towel, including myself...however, I am going to trust this process and keep moving forward. We took the boys out to run errands today and we stopped by a frozen yogurt shop (my fav) and I was hoping to find a selection of non-fat, sugar-free yogurts...(not the case). Super depressing. I fought the big battle in my head and decided to order a mini one, however, after two small bites I gave it to my husband because I knew in my head that the little "MINI" order that I got was approx.120 calories. And I knew that I could go home and blend up a protein shake and get the same feeling of a frozen treat out of it and stay in my food guidelines. After this 12 week plan...I will be going back to get some of my favorite frozen yogurt...just not today! :) Willpower Wins Again!
I did all my meal prep for the week and feel confident that this will be a remarkable week! I made lentils and quinoa for the first time and my husband said he liked them both! This is exciting! I made some protein bars, turkey protein balls, grilled peppers and onions. I chopped additional peppers for my egg whites in the morning and made up some turkey burgers to throw on my salad during the week for additional protein.
It is the last day for you all to get in your "Before" pictures! I hope you are all doing your Squats challenge and rocking out your exercises! Everyone still In it to Win it???
What a GORGEOUS weekend! I got my first little burn of the summer season. This I am not excited about being that I put sunscreen on but you can see every little place that I missed! To include a spot right on my forehead and my left ear!
Weekends are Always the most difficult to stay on the eating plan. On Friday night, the vote from the hubs and the kiddos was to order pizza but I made salmon with a side of veges for myself. It just didn't taste like the delicious hot cheese and pepperoni I caught glimpses of my husband and boys chowing down on. I will admit though, that my salmon was prepared MAGNIFICENTLY and I had no complaints knowing that my arteries are completely clean and free from the lard build-up that they all have subjected themselves to (guilt free I am sure).
On Saturday, the boys had football games and we knew we would be there for several hours, to include through lunch. I went to the gym in the morning so was left absolutely ravenous. We made a pit stop to the grocery store and loaded up on snacks and cold drinks for the kids. I had no clue what to grab so I found 100 calorie pack of almonds, an apple and a grapefruit. I felt this could hold me over until we returned home where I could enjoy the left over salmon and more veges!
Today is Sunday...the last day of Phase 1 for me. I am super excited to get on with the fat burning phase! However, a little stressed about the time commitment this will take. I seriously cannot tell a difference in my clothes other than my chest seems to be shrinking. :) I had to weigh myself which I did not want to do until the very end but I had to for the contest. I have only lost 3 lbs. This is when most people would throw in the towel, including myself...however, I am going to trust this process and keep moving forward. We took the boys out to run errands today and we stopped by a frozen yogurt shop (my fav) and I was hoping to find a selection of non-fat, sugar-free yogurts...(not the case). Super depressing. I fought the big battle in my head and decided to order a mini one, however, after two small bites I gave it to my husband because I knew in my head that the little "MINI" order that I got was approx.120 calories. And I knew that I could go home and blend up a protein shake and get the same feeling of a frozen treat out of it and stay in my food guidelines. After this 12 week plan...I will be going back to get some of my favorite frozen yogurt...just not today! :) Willpower Wins Again!
I did all my meal prep for the week and feel confident that this will be a remarkable week! I made lentils and quinoa for the first time and my husband said he liked them both! This is exciting! I made some protein bars, turkey protein balls, grilled peppers and onions. I chopped additional peppers for my egg whites in the morning and made up some turkey burgers to throw on my salad during the week for additional protein.
It is the last day for you all to get in your "Before" pictures! I hope you are all doing your Squats challenge and rocking out your exercises! Everyone still In it to Win it???
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Final Week of Phase 1
What a day! What a week! I worked out my arms so hard today knowing that tomorrow is a Rest Day! Ahhh! I am so happy to have the break you have no idea!
Thank you all for the 'Before' photos! If you think your friends or know of anyone who likes a challenge...just for fun...Share the page and invite them to 'Like' the page and join us in this friendly competition to better our bodies! Bikini season is here in just a few months...so we are just in time to kick it up a few notches! I am so excited to see all of your results! I will be posting random workout ideas for you for your core, booty and arms to play with. It should be fun! Get a good playlist going and just rock it out! You will NEVER regret a good workout. Ever.
Is everyone eating clean? If any of you try something that you think is fabulous...please post your recipe ideas! I will share it with everyone! We all need good ideas! But I should warn you, I seem to skip past recipes that have too many ingredients and if I don't know what an ingredient is...it just won't happen. I am looking for fast, convenient recipes with as few, simple ingredients as possible. :) I have a few recipes that I am going to try this weekend and if they are fantastic...I will share!
It is the final week in Phase 1 for me. Next week...Cardio! Finally! I am ready to shed some layers so these magnificent muscles can reveal themselves. (Crossing Fingers)
In Phase 2, the workouts will consist of 6 days vs. 5 days with only 1 rest day. I will be doing weight training 6 days and 30 minutes of cardio after the weight training on 4 of the days. I am verrrry intimidated when I look at the workouts. I pray that I can figure it out quickly and just do well at it. This also takes a lot of time away from my family, but they are being super supportive and that is exactly what I need!
Thank you all for the 'Before' photos! If you think your friends or know of anyone who likes a challenge...just for fun...Share the page and invite them to 'Like' the page and join us in this friendly competition to better our bodies! Bikini season is here in just a few months...so we are just in time to kick it up a few notches! I am so excited to see all of your results! I will be posting random workout ideas for you for your core, booty and arms to play with. It should be fun! Get a good playlist going and just rock it out! You will NEVER regret a good workout. Ever.
Is everyone eating clean? If any of you try something that you think is fabulous...please post your recipe ideas! I will share it with everyone! We all need good ideas! But I should warn you, I seem to skip past recipes that have too many ingredients and if I don't know what an ingredient is...it just won't happen. I am looking for fast, convenient recipes with as few, simple ingredients as possible. :) I have a few recipes that I am going to try this weekend and if they are fantastic...I will share!
It is the final week in Phase 1 for me. Next week...Cardio! Finally! I am ready to shed some layers so these magnificent muscles can reveal themselves. (Crossing Fingers)
In Phase 2, the workouts will consist of 6 days vs. 5 days with only 1 rest day. I will be doing weight training 6 days and 30 minutes of cardio after the weight training on 4 of the days. I am verrrry intimidated when I look at the workouts. I pray that I can figure it out quickly and just do well at it. This also takes a lot of time away from my family, but they are being super supportive and that is exactly what I need!
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Let The Games Begin
Let the games begin...
I am so proud of those of you who have submitted your 'Before' pictures! I want you all to know that personally I think you all look fabulous but I understand that we are the worst critics of our own bodies! For those of you who have not submitted your pictures yet, remember to send me your front photo, back side and arm flex by SUNDAY. DO NOT SHOW YOUR FACE in these pictures! This way, when we are voting...NO one knows who it is! This is a great way to have the public vote don't you think?
This will be a 60 day challenge. We will have the official start date be this next Monday the 22nd and it will end the exact same time that my 12 week challenge will end! I will post all of your before and after shots and the public will vote! I will also disclose for the ever curious my before and after pictures around this same time! EEEK! I am so proud of you all for putting yourselves out there!
The winner of the challenge will WIN a $100 gift certificate to some place fabulous for new workout gear/shoes, whatever you want to continue your journey in your new healthy lifestyle!
It is time people. Time to get control of our lives back! Processed foods, sugars, etc...it is like CRACK. Let's detox and get the bodies we have always dreamed of! We deserve to be confident and Rock our best selves! If you have kids...your kids deserve to have the best you and to watch and learn how to eat and exercise! Get out with your kids, hike with them, bike with them, swim and play with them! These are the moments they will always remember. Don't let their memories be of you laying around, lethargic, eating take out, being unhappy and grumpy because you are so miserable with yourself. Give your husband the BEST you that you can ever be. Men love a confident woman. Fake it until you make it ladies! And obviously, a confident body will only improve your sex life right? (You're welcome men)
My eating plan is going well...how is yours? I have not cheated and it feels great to stick to my guns. I am super stubborn so there is no way I will cheat at this point. I am diet soda free, Starbucks free, alcohol free, sugar free, processed foods free, etc. It took me a good two to three weeks to detox and get rid of those horrible headaches and cravings. You all can do this! Set the goal and just stick to it! Do Not let food have such a powerful hold on you any longer! Is anyone that is doing the challenge doing an eating plan? If so, what are you doing? What works for you? My suggestion is to throw away all the ridiculous diet strategies and just eat clean. It is what works! Well...it is new to me so we shall see here in 8 weeks if it works. I can tell you that I feel really good on the inside. I might not see a lot of change on the outside...but on the inside...I feel clean and light. It's a good feeling to have. Also, I have a lot more energy and a more positive attitude. We all could use a bit of that, right?
For my exercise plan, I did glutes and legs tonight and I still feel like jello. I am working so hard so I hope that there is big improvement at the end of this. If so, I know I will be motivated to keep up with this way of living. It just feels really good!
Good Luck Contenders!! Let the games begin!
I am so proud of those of you who have submitted your 'Before' pictures! I want you all to know that personally I think you all look fabulous but I understand that we are the worst critics of our own bodies! For those of you who have not submitted your pictures yet, remember to send me your front photo, back side and arm flex by SUNDAY. DO NOT SHOW YOUR FACE in these pictures! This way, when we are voting...NO one knows who it is! This is a great way to have the public vote don't you think?
This will be a 60 day challenge. We will have the official start date be this next Monday the 22nd and it will end the exact same time that my 12 week challenge will end! I will post all of your before and after shots and the public will vote! I will also disclose for the ever curious my before and after pictures around this same time! EEEK! I am so proud of you all for putting yourselves out there!
The winner of the challenge will WIN a $100 gift certificate to some place fabulous for new workout gear/shoes, whatever you want to continue your journey in your new healthy lifestyle!
It is time people. Time to get control of our lives back! Processed foods, sugars, etc...it is like CRACK. Let's detox and get the bodies we have always dreamed of! We deserve to be confident and Rock our best selves! If you have kids...your kids deserve to have the best you and to watch and learn how to eat and exercise! Get out with your kids, hike with them, bike with them, swim and play with them! These are the moments they will always remember. Don't let their memories be of you laying around, lethargic, eating take out, being unhappy and grumpy because you are so miserable with yourself. Give your husband the BEST you that you can ever be. Men love a confident woman. Fake it until you make it ladies! And obviously, a confident body will only improve your sex life right? (You're welcome men)
My eating plan is going well...how is yours? I have not cheated and it feels great to stick to my guns. I am super stubborn so there is no way I will cheat at this point. I am diet soda free, Starbucks free, alcohol free, sugar free, processed foods free, etc. It took me a good two to three weeks to detox and get rid of those horrible headaches and cravings. You all can do this! Set the goal and just stick to it! Do Not let food have such a powerful hold on you any longer! Is anyone that is doing the challenge doing an eating plan? If so, what are you doing? What works for you? My suggestion is to throw away all the ridiculous diet strategies and just eat clean. It is what works! Well...it is new to me so we shall see here in 8 weeks if it works. I can tell you that I feel really good on the inside. I might not see a lot of change on the outside...but on the inside...I feel clean and light. It's a good feeling to have. Also, I have a lot more energy and a more positive attitude. We all could use a bit of that, right?
For my exercise plan, I did glutes and legs tonight and I still feel like jello. I am working so hard so I hope that there is big improvement at the end of this. If so, I know I will be motivated to keep up with this way of living. It just feels really good!
Good Luck Contenders!! Let the games begin!
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Contest Decision...
The Contest Decision has been made! By popular demand, we will be doing ALL 3 Challenges!! Please have your photos submitted by Sunday! Please submit to the Facebook page: Carb Lovin Chocoholic.
You can private message the before pics and I will store them until you're complete! I won't even look!
Now, should we do a 3o day Challenge or do you all want to finish it out for 60 days and end the same time that my contest/challenge ends? That could be fun! Everyone putting themselves out there...myself included!
I am so excited to be moving on to the second phase of my program so hopefully I can see some results! I keep waaaitinggggg...and still feel like I look the same. This sure is a lot of hard work to get nothing out of it! But, I WILL NOT give up!
Some exciting news to push my goals out past the 12 week program...my little sister is getting married in Turks and Caicos Islands over New Years! This is very exciting for me as I have not traveled in so very long and I am pretty sure after researching the islands and seeing the photos...that I belong on that beach! And I shall be wearing a hot pink bikini! Ohhhh...this is very exciting!!! I need the little goals to keep me motivated! :) Pictures last Foreverrrrr so I better look HOT in them!
Good Luck to everyone on the challenges! I am SUPER excited to see some serious body transformations!
You can private message the before pics and I will store them until you're complete! I won't even look!
Now, should we do a 3o day Challenge or do you all want to finish it out for 60 days and end the same time that my contest/challenge ends? That could be fun! Everyone putting themselves out there...myself included!
I am so excited to be moving on to the second phase of my program so hopefully I can see some results! I keep waaaitinggggg...and still feel like I look the same. This sure is a lot of hard work to get nothing out of it! But, I WILL NOT give up!
Some exciting news to push my goals out past the 12 week program...my little sister is getting married in Turks and Caicos Islands over New Years! This is very exciting for me as I have not traveled in so very long and I am pretty sure after researching the islands and seeing the photos...that I belong on that beach! And I shall be wearing a hot pink bikini! Ohhhh...this is very exciting!!! I need the little goals to keep me motivated! :) Pictures last Foreverrrrr so I better look HOT in them!
Good Luck to everyone on the challenges! I am SUPER excited to see some serious body transformations!
Monday, April 15, 2013
Life Changing Moments
Life Changing Moments...
Today is a day that we will add to the list of horrible, unthinkable acts that have and will continue to happen to our nation. We will never understand why people do the evil things that they do. The people that commit these crimes of hate, in their minds (as sick as it is) typically believe they have good reason. It is devastating to think that our mankind can commit these things without the thought of God's Judgment one day. I fear for them, on that day.
Events like this also remind me at how precious life is...that in one blink of an eye, our lives could change forever. It does and it has to many of us. Thus is life...and this is why I choose to take advantage of every single day and make the most of it. I will be damned if I go down not making each day a good one! I am blessed today that I have the ability to eat healthy foods that will nourish my body that God has given to me. I was able to exercise today in order to keep my body strong and fit so when I need to defend myself, I might have some serious ninja moves.
Which reminds me...there was a lady at my son's football game...say...295 lbs...a beefy Samoan lady, try to front me because she felt that I almost stepped on her because I wasn't paying attention. When in fact, I could not miss this lady and was merely walking past her and I probably just blocked her view because she was sprawled out across the lawn and I was trying to walk by. I felt this lady to be extremely rude when even after apologizing a few times and my husband even apologized a few times, she still wouldn't let it go. I was left in a moment with a few voices in my head...
One was telling me to kneel down to her and apologize looking her in the eyes because obviously she was having a horrible day. The other voice was telling me...You are getting muscles! Kick her ass! I took that moment to just give it to God and move on. I find it brave of her being our son's play on the same team and we will be spending an awful lot of time together this season. :) I shall kill her with kindness.
Or not, we shall see.
It is week 4 my friends and I have to admit that I am ready for week 5. I am so excited for Phase 2 of this program so that I can add the cardio part in. I know...weird. In the past, cardio is all I have ever done so I am looking forward to stripping away these fluffy layers and exposing these muscles that I have worked so hard on these last 4 weeks! How exciting!! Aren't you all so excited to see my muscles?? :) Oh.
Maybe I will take a few pics week 5 to give you a sneak peak. Haha.
Now is the part that I need you all to get involved in this blog. I need you all to answer this question about the contest...remember, it's for a cool gift certificate of some sort!
I need you to vote on what contest you prefer to engage yourself in and the most popular vote will win!
1. 30 Day Squats Challenge (previous post): You will private message me your 'Before pic' by the end of this week...and your 'After Pic' 30 days later- to make it fair you will need to post it with a newspaper with the date on it. If you have already started the challenge, send me your pic and I will date it for the day I posted the challenge. This would be a bit revealing to be able to tell...but you would need to be in bikini bottom. Eek! I know!
2. 30 Day Arms Challenge: Get Tank Top Ready! (Less embarrassing for some) Private message me 'Before' Arms photo by the end of this week and your 'After' pics- 30 days later. This would be biceps and triceps photo. I will post cool arm workouts that you will surely feel the burn. Also, would need something with the date on it. Maybe an up close pic of your face and whatever has the date on it along with a photo of you flexing your biceps and triceps.
3. 30 Day Ab Challenge: Before & After Pics. Same thing as above.
So...what will it be? # 1, # 2 or # 3??? If I don't get enough responses I will assume no one is willing to put themselves out there so I will bag the whole idea and go shopping for myself!
VOTING BEGINS....NOWWWWWWWWWW
Today is a day that we will add to the list of horrible, unthinkable acts that have and will continue to happen to our nation. We will never understand why people do the evil things that they do. The people that commit these crimes of hate, in their minds (as sick as it is) typically believe they have good reason. It is devastating to think that our mankind can commit these things without the thought of God's Judgment one day. I fear for them, on that day.
Events like this also remind me at how precious life is...that in one blink of an eye, our lives could change forever. It does and it has to many of us. Thus is life...and this is why I choose to take advantage of every single day and make the most of it. I will be damned if I go down not making each day a good one! I am blessed today that I have the ability to eat healthy foods that will nourish my body that God has given to me. I was able to exercise today in order to keep my body strong and fit so when I need to defend myself, I might have some serious ninja moves.
Which reminds me...there was a lady at my son's football game...say...295 lbs...a beefy Samoan lady, try to front me because she felt that I almost stepped on her because I wasn't paying attention. When in fact, I could not miss this lady and was merely walking past her and I probably just blocked her view because she was sprawled out across the lawn and I was trying to walk by. I felt this lady to be extremely rude when even after apologizing a few times and my husband even apologized a few times, she still wouldn't let it go. I was left in a moment with a few voices in my head...
One was telling me to kneel down to her and apologize looking her in the eyes because obviously she was having a horrible day. The other voice was telling me...You are getting muscles! Kick her ass! I took that moment to just give it to God and move on. I find it brave of her being our son's play on the same team and we will be spending an awful lot of time together this season. :) I shall kill her with kindness.
Or not, we shall see.
It is week 4 my friends and I have to admit that I am ready for week 5. I am so excited for Phase 2 of this program so that I can add the cardio part in. I know...weird. In the past, cardio is all I have ever done so I am looking forward to stripping away these fluffy layers and exposing these muscles that I have worked so hard on these last 4 weeks! How exciting!! Aren't you all so excited to see my muscles?? :) Oh.
Maybe I will take a few pics week 5 to give you a sneak peak. Haha.
Now is the part that I need you all to get involved in this blog. I need you all to answer this question about the contest...remember, it's for a cool gift certificate of some sort!
I need you to vote on what contest you prefer to engage yourself in and the most popular vote will win!
1. 30 Day Squats Challenge (previous post): You will private message me your 'Before pic' by the end of this week...and your 'After Pic' 30 days later- to make it fair you will need to post it with a newspaper with the date on it. If you have already started the challenge, send me your pic and I will date it for the day I posted the challenge. This would be a bit revealing to be able to tell...but you would need to be in bikini bottom. Eek! I know!
2. 30 Day Arms Challenge: Get Tank Top Ready! (Less embarrassing for some) Private message me 'Before' Arms photo by the end of this week and your 'After' pics- 30 days later. This would be biceps and triceps photo. I will post cool arm workouts that you will surely feel the burn. Also, would need something with the date on it. Maybe an up close pic of your face and whatever has the date on it along with a photo of you flexing your biceps and triceps.
3. 30 Day Ab Challenge: Before & After Pics. Same thing as above.
So...what will it be? # 1, # 2 or # 3??? If I don't get enough responses I will assume no one is willing to put themselves out there so I will bag the whole idea and go shopping for myself!
VOTING BEGINS....NOWWWWWWWWWW
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Ahhh...Jillian Michaels. The queen of all trainers decided to set out to motivate and inspire people on her 'Maximize Your Life' tour. I love watching her scream at the contestants on the Biggest Loser series so I thought I should do some research for my little project on myself and go see her. I couldn't find anyone who wanted to go with me to this exciting event so my husband took one for the team! :)
It was pretty interesting actually...she spoke about her life story but also touched on things like Organic vs. Non-Organic, pesticides, hormones in our animal products, etc. But one of the really neat things that I took away from it was when she talked about our individual BMR (Basil Metabolic Rate) and AMR (Active Metabolic Rate). The BMR is the number of calories you would burn if you stayed in bed all day. Your AMR is the total amount of calories you expend through different types of activities throughout the day. Why did I find these things interesting? My struggles have always been 'Maintaining' my weight. I'm like Oprah...I go up...I go down. I can lose weight like a pro...it's maintaining the loss I struggle with. This was an eye opener for me because I learned how many calories my body requires to maintain my weight and if I want to lose weight, just eat under those calories. :) Genius. Take a look at this link to calculate yours:
http://preventdisease.com/healthtools/articles/bmr.shtml
Fun Right?
Today is the last day of my 3rd week! Still going strong! I have stuck strictly to the diet plan and even rocked out the gym on Saturday. WooHoo! I completed my meal prep today, did all of our laundry, dishes and even fit in a 4 hour drive to pick up my boys and bring them home from their dads house.
Tomorrow begins my Week 4 and then on to Phase 2! I have noticed no real changes yet, however, I am saying positive and super focused! I will have my decision on our contest sometime this week so stay tuned!
It was pretty interesting actually...she spoke about her life story but also touched on things like Organic vs. Non-Organic, pesticides, hormones in our animal products, etc. But one of the really neat things that I took away from it was when she talked about our individual BMR (Basil Metabolic Rate) and AMR (Active Metabolic Rate). The BMR is the number of calories you would burn if you stayed in bed all day. Your AMR is the total amount of calories you expend through different types of activities throughout the day. Why did I find these things interesting? My struggles have always been 'Maintaining' my weight. I'm like Oprah...I go up...I go down. I can lose weight like a pro...it's maintaining the loss I struggle with. This was an eye opener for me because I learned how many calories my body requires to maintain my weight and if I want to lose weight, just eat under those calories. :) Genius. Take a look at this link to calculate yours:
http://preventdisease.com/healthtools/articles/bmr.shtml
Fun Right?
Today is the last day of my 3rd week! Still going strong! I have stuck strictly to the diet plan and even rocked out the gym on Saturday. WooHoo! I completed my meal prep today, did all of our laundry, dishes and even fit in a 4 hour drive to pick up my boys and bring them home from their dads house.
Tomorrow begins my Week 4 and then on to Phase 2! I have noticed no real changes yet, however, I am saying positive and super focused! I will have my decision on our contest sometime this week so stay tuned!
Thursday, April 11, 2013
After Pic...
I have my 'After' pictures on my mind...wondering, is this is really going to work? If I put all of this time in to meal prepping, supplementing, exercising, lifting weights, sweating and praying...am I guaranteed to have a body transformation? And how embarrassing if I look the same as when I started. It is a fear of mine...this is for sure.
I am nearing the end of my third week which leaves me with 9 weeks left of the program. The count down is on...and I am nervous. I not only want to win this darn contest, I want to prove to everyone that in 12 weeks you can drastically change what your body looks like. Of course, I pray for the 'drastically' part. Would you put in everything you had if you knew you could completely change the looks of your body in 12 weeks? Or are the temptations of food and laying on the couch just too powerful?
Have you all been thinking about our contest? What are some ideas? How many of you are still doing the squat challenge and did you take your before pictures? How many of you have lost weight and already have before and after pictures and have kept it off?
My eating today was fabulous, however, I am noticing that I am much more hungry than I was two weeks ago. I might have to add in some boiled eggs as a snack or something.
At the gym tonight, I did a BodyPump class and really concentrated on the back & bicep part of the workout. As I was pumping my iron I checked myself out in the mirror and not only noticed that my biceps are getting a nice bulge to them, but also that my shirt was see through. Like...really see through. I will never wear that neon yellow tank top again.
Tomorrow is Friday and a rest day so I am really looking forward to it! I hope you are all doing your squats and eating healthy! Keep the healthy recipes coming along!! I need all the help I can get!
I am nearing the end of my third week which leaves me with 9 weeks left of the program. The count down is on...and I am nervous. I not only want to win this darn contest, I want to prove to everyone that in 12 weeks you can drastically change what your body looks like. Of course, I pray for the 'drastically' part. Would you put in everything you had if you knew you could completely change the looks of your body in 12 weeks? Or are the temptations of food and laying on the couch just too powerful?
Have you all been thinking about our contest? What are some ideas? How many of you are still doing the squat challenge and did you take your before pictures? How many of you have lost weight and already have before and after pictures and have kept it off?
My eating today was fabulous, however, I am noticing that I am much more hungry than I was two weeks ago. I might have to add in some boiled eggs as a snack or something.
At the gym tonight, I did a BodyPump class and really concentrated on the back & bicep part of the workout. As I was pumping my iron I checked myself out in the mirror and not only noticed that my biceps are getting a nice bulge to them, but also that my shirt was see through. Like...really see through. I will never wear that neon yellow tank top again.
Tomorrow is Friday and a rest day so I am really looking forward to it! I hope you are all doing your squats and eating healthy! Keep the healthy recipes coming along!! I need all the help I can get!
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Amazing Abs...
I learned something amazing today that I did not know and I am so excited to share it with you! It's about our abs. So, we all would love to have a defined, amazing, hard, sexy stomach right? You see the girls with the really defined abs like a six pack and there are the ones who have the amazing flat stomach with the lines (my personal favorite). Well, we all have heard that abs are made in the kitchen right? Well, it's true! If you strip away all the layers of blubber that completely covers what abs you might have, you will know whether you have the well defined six-pack abs or the flat stomach abs. What? How cool is that? I wonder...what is lurking...under...my layers of flubba dubba! (Slightly hyperventilating in anticipation)...
As many of you know, I have been struggling with my ever so boring diet plan. Well, I have had so many amazing ideas thrown my way so I have made it my goal to switch things up a lot to make this not so boring. I have never had a lentil...that I know of, so I will be trying a recipe utilizing whatever it is, possibly this weekend. I am loving all of the advice and recipes people! Keep them coming! This weekend there will be some different recipes posted for my food prep day! I will let you know what is good and not so good! :)
I ate my meals like a champion today, enjoying my lunch with the chili lime chicken breast (no bloody veins! Woohoo!). I love, love the pumpkin protein bars and I believe these will be my staple small meal daily being they hit that sweet spot. I enjoyed a chocolate banana protein shake after my legs workout and am looking forward to tomorrow's workout as well! Bring it on!
I am thinking about having a contest...to include you all in a friendly competition. Maybe your before and after photos from those who have lost several pounds or who have made their own body transformations? Ohhh...the before and after pictures of the squats challenge?! What are some good ideas? It would be for a fabulous gift certificate! Maybe for some new bright colored workout clothes/shoes that I highly suggest?? Who is in?
As many of you know, I have been struggling with my ever so boring diet plan. Well, I have had so many amazing ideas thrown my way so I have made it my goal to switch things up a lot to make this not so boring. I have never had a lentil...that I know of, so I will be trying a recipe utilizing whatever it is, possibly this weekend. I am loving all of the advice and recipes people! Keep them coming! This weekend there will be some different recipes posted for my food prep day! I will let you know what is good and not so good! :)
I ate my meals like a champion today, enjoying my lunch with the chili lime chicken breast (no bloody veins! Woohoo!). I love, love the pumpkin protein bars and I believe these will be my staple small meal daily being they hit that sweet spot. I enjoyed a chocolate banana protein shake after my legs workout and am looking forward to tomorrow's workout as well! Bring it on!
I am thinking about having a contest...to include you all in a friendly competition. Maybe your before and after photos from those who have lost several pounds or who have made their own body transformations? Ohhh...the before and after pictures of the squats challenge?! What are some good ideas? It would be for a fabulous gift certificate! Maybe for some new bright colored workout clothes/shoes that I highly suggest?? Who is in?
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Potluck Temptations
Today was my boss's birthday so there was a potluck going on! Fajitas, chips and queso, pasta salad, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, Cane's chicken strips and bread, cookies and cream pie, cupcakes, etc. Temptations... they are everywhere. I ate my salad and added some of the chicken fajita meat and peppers. It was mighty good however, depressing compared to what everyone else was eating. After the potluck, belly's were bloated and full yet I was still hungry so I ate my apple. I will not succumb to these temptations when I have such a bigger picture in my mind. It isn't just about winning this contest...$10,000 would be very nice, don't get me wrong. It is more about the determination to do something that most people fail at...daily. We try and try to get focused and eat right, exercise, lose weight and how long do you typically last? A week, two? What is it that makes us cave and give in? That inner voice I was fighting with yesterday to just give up?
Not Today.
I have decided to change up my meal plans. I struggle the most with my lunch. I cannot continue to do a salad every single day. It is so boring and bland. I will take the advice from someone who has inspired me through her very own weight loss journey and start making my lunches a hot meal...something more comforting and filling. Done. I have chicken breast, (I know...yuck, but it's all I have last minute...please chicken don't have a bloody vein) in the crock-pot overnight marinating in a chile lime fajita seasoning of some sort. I don't know what I am doing but it will have to do until I can get to the store this weekend and revamp my plan.
My gym session consisted of a BodyPump class. What a great workout that class is. I upped my squat weight and almost fell over, but other than that it was a challenging session tonight. For "The Plan" today is a bicep workout and for what the BodyPump class offers it exceeds "The Plan's" workout. Mission Accomplished.
All in all, a great day. While my co-workers are laying on their couches feeling sick from their calorie in-take today, I can go to bed tonight knowing that tomorrow...I am stronger...and one day closer to my ultimate goal. WOOHOOOO!!!
Not Today.
I have decided to change up my meal plans. I struggle the most with my lunch. I cannot continue to do a salad every single day. It is so boring and bland. I will take the advice from someone who has inspired me through her very own weight loss journey and start making my lunches a hot meal...something more comforting and filling. Done. I have chicken breast, (I know...yuck, but it's all I have last minute...please chicken don't have a bloody vein) in the crock-pot overnight marinating in a chile lime fajita seasoning of some sort. I don't know what I am doing but it will have to do until I can get to the store this weekend and revamp my plan.
My gym session consisted of a BodyPump class. What a great workout that class is. I upped my squat weight and almost fell over, but other than that it was a challenging session tonight. For "The Plan" today is a bicep workout and for what the BodyPump class offers it exceeds "The Plan's" workout. Mission Accomplished.
All in all, a great day. While my co-workers are laying on their couches feeling sick from their calorie in-take today, I can go to bed tonight knowing that tomorrow...I am stronger...and one day closer to my ultimate goal. WOOHOOOO!!!
Bloody Chicken
Phase One...Week 3...Day 15:
I am at a low my friends. I am at the point where some true motivation and inspiration from my friends and supporters is necessary. Even though I am only three weeks in to this thing, I am not seeing results fast enough. I am tired, sore and hungry for a brownie. Isn't this what typically happens? The temptations are all up in my face...screaming...EAT ME...DRINK ME...This Won't Work For You...GIVE UP...GIVE IN!!! That is what my brain is telling me. My heart is telling me that I Got This...to keep going...DO NOT GIVE UP! An evil battle...this is for sure.
How did my motivation change today? It was at lunch. I sat down to eat my chicken salad and when I cut in to my chicken...a bloody, nasty vein. HOW does this happen?? I almost threw up. It was a fully cooked chicken and yet right there in my face was a bloody vein. I am still sick thinking about it. So, needless to say, I am thinking about becoming a vegetarian.
Speaking of veins...this Jergens Tanning Lotion is FANTASTIC!!! It covers all my blue veins that you can see in my super white legs! Yessss! ;)
My gym workout today was back and triceps. I rocked out 3 sets of 12.
Wide Pushups
Incline Dumbbell press
Machine Flyes
Decline Flyes
Bench Dips
Triceps Kick Backs
Overhead Triceps Extensions
*Now...I need some motivation...ideas to keep my head in the game!!! How do you people stay motivated???
I am at a low my friends. I am at the point where some true motivation and inspiration from my friends and supporters is necessary. Even though I am only three weeks in to this thing, I am not seeing results fast enough. I am tired, sore and hungry for a brownie. Isn't this what typically happens? The temptations are all up in my face...screaming...EAT ME...DRINK ME...This Won't Work For You...GIVE UP...GIVE IN!!! That is what my brain is telling me. My heart is telling me that I Got This...to keep going...DO NOT GIVE UP! An evil battle...this is for sure.
How did my motivation change today? It was at lunch. I sat down to eat my chicken salad and when I cut in to my chicken...a bloody, nasty vein. HOW does this happen?? I almost threw up. It was a fully cooked chicken and yet right there in my face was a bloody vein. I am still sick thinking about it. So, needless to say, I am thinking about becoming a vegetarian.
Speaking of veins...this Jergens Tanning Lotion is FANTASTIC!!! It covers all my blue veins that you can see in my super white legs! Yessss! ;)
My gym workout today was back and triceps. I rocked out 3 sets of 12.
Wide Pushups
Incline Dumbbell press
Machine Flyes
Decline Flyes
Bench Dips
Triceps Kick Backs
Overhead Triceps Extensions
*Now...I need some motivation...ideas to keep my head in the game!!! How do you people stay motivated???
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Meal Prep Day!
How many of you lovelies meal prepped for the week today?
It's Sunday! The final day of week 2 for me...bring on week 3! Today consisted of grocery shopping, laundry, cleaning, dishes, a BBQ with friends and meal prep for the week! Whew! What a busy, fun day! I am able to admit that the weekends are definitely the hardest for me to stay on task. I want nothing more than a delicious hot fudge brownie right now...my cravings are running rampant. I hate it. But, instead of caving I shall focus on the bigger picture here...take another gulp of my water and pretend it is a vodka diet. Blah.
It was a Rest Day for my workout today and I enjoyed every bit of it. The end of this week signifies two weeks without diet sodas, sugars, processed foods, alcohol, etc... The only change that I see so far is in my arms. I am starting to see some bicep definition and my shoulders are starting to look more square than slouchy. This is exciting for me! I'm not sure how much of a change can happen in the twelve weeks but I am going to trust the process! Is everyone still committed to the Squats Challenge? If so, did you take your before pics and how are you feeling???
It's Sunday! The final day of week 2 for me...bring on week 3! Today consisted of grocery shopping, laundry, cleaning, dishes, a BBQ with friends and meal prep for the week! Whew! What a busy, fun day! I am able to admit that the weekends are definitely the hardest for me to stay on task. I want nothing more than a delicious hot fudge brownie right now...my cravings are running rampant. I hate it. But, instead of caving I shall focus on the bigger picture here...take another gulp of my water and pretend it is a vodka diet. Blah.
It was a Rest Day for my workout today and I enjoyed every bit of it. The end of this week signifies two weeks without diet sodas, sugars, processed foods, alcohol, etc... The only change that I see so far is in my arms. I am starting to see some bicep definition and my shoulders are starting to look more square than slouchy. This is exciting for me! I'm not sure how much of a change can happen in the twelve weeks but I am going to trust the process! Is everyone still committed to the Squats Challenge? If so, did you take your before pics and how are you feeling???
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Mmm...Chocolate...
Mmm...Chocolate....
Day 13: Weekends are always the worst when it comes to dieting and exercise. You want to go out on Friday night to celebrate the long work week ending, sleep in Saturday morning and then spend the rest of the weekend lounging, eating and possibly slip a glass or two of wine in there.
The good news? I have not cheated on my meal plan. I have not had one diet soda in 13 days or morsel of bad food, sugar, etc.
The bad news? I craved chocolate so badly today that I had to have it! I went to a BodyPump class this morning and then spent the day with my boys. My oldest child had a football game and then we made it to the mall to purchase them summer clothes. Once we were home...I had to find CHOCOLATE. I WILL NOT eat off of the plan so I found this amazing recipe and let me tell you...IT HIT THE SPOT! This was sooo yummy that I am sure there will be more to come for this chocolate cravin lady! It tastes just like a chocolate milk shake! So Yummy.
Chocolate Skinniness:
1 Cup Almond Milk
1 Frozen Banana
1 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
1 Tbsp Almond butter
1 Scoop Whey or Egg Protein (Vanilla)
1 cup ice
Add all of the ingredients into a blender in the order they are listed. Blend until smooth. Add more ice if you want a thicker shake.
Day 13: Weekends are always the worst when it comes to dieting and exercise. You want to go out on Friday night to celebrate the long work week ending, sleep in Saturday morning and then spend the rest of the weekend lounging, eating and possibly slip a glass or two of wine in there.
The good news? I have not cheated on my meal plan. I have not had one diet soda in 13 days or morsel of bad food, sugar, etc.
The bad news? I craved chocolate so badly today that I had to have it! I went to a BodyPump class this morning and then spent the day with my boys. My oldest child had a football game and then we made it to the mall to purchase them summer clothes. Once we were home...I had to find CHOCOLATE. I WILL NOT eat off of the plan so I found this amazing recipe and let me tell you...IT HIT THE SPOT! This was sooo yummy that I am sure there will be more to come for this chocolate cravin lady! It tastes just like a chocolate milk shake! So Yummy.
Chocolate Skinniness:
1 Cup Almond Milk
1 Frozen Banana
1 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
1 Tbsp Almond butter
1 Scoop Whey or Egg Protein (Vanilla)
1 cup ice
Add all of the ingredients into a blender in the order they are listed. Blend until smooth. Add more ice if you want a thicker shake.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Holy Soreness...
Day 11: There is nothing like the feeling of being sore. Accomplishing something, other than sitting and doing nothing for your body. However, tonight...I feel so beat up, sore and just plain exhausted. I don't think I could even lift another weight. Thank the good Lord that tomorrow is Friday and it is a rest day! WooHoo!!!
Today was one of the more difficult days for me. I craved ice cream, something sweet would have been amazing. Instead, a co-worker/friend of mine decided that we should take our lunch break right on over to the TJ MAX and I bought some super cute workout clothes! Bright pinks and yellows are what I am loving right now! If you have cute workout clothes you will want to wear them, therefore have better odds of working out in them! SO ladies...go throw out those old shabby, ugly, worn out clothes that are 4 sizes too big (because you think you are covering your fat) and purchase some hot pinks and yellow tanks and fabulous spandex! Don't forget the cute shoes! New Balance has some of the most exciting, bright colored shoes right now that I have ever seen! And remember, the more cellulite your spandex pants show...the harder you will want to workout! So Rock it! ;)
I ate everything perfectly today. The only thing I haven't added is the Omega-3 pills. I will try those out maybe this weekend, they make me nervous though...so maybe not.
At the gym today I did a BodyPump class. It was shoulders today on the "Plan" and BodyPump covers those very well so I just jumped in the class knowing it pushes me better than I can on my own. That class rocks me every time. Tomorrow...Rest Day and I am looking forward to it!
Today was one of the more difficult days for me. I craved ice cream, something sweet would have been amazing. Instead, a co-worker/friend of mine decided that we should take our lunch break right on over to the TJ MAX and I bought some super cute workout clothes! Bright pinks and yellows are what I am loving right now! If you have cute workout clothes you will want to wear them, therefore have better odds of working out in them! SO ladies...go throw out those old shabby, ugly, worn out clothes that are 4 sizes too big (because you think you are covering your fat) and purchase some hot pinks and yellow tanks and fabulous spandex! Don't forget the cute shoes! New Balance has some of the most exciting, bright colored shoes right now that I have ever seen! And remember, the more cellulite your spandex pants show...the harder you will want to workout! So Rock it! ;)
I ate everything perfectly today. The only thing I haven't added is the Omega-3 pills. I will try those out maybe this weekend, they make me nervous though...so maybe not.
At the gym today I did a BodyPump class. It was shoulders today on the "Plan" and BodyPump covers those very well so I just jumped in the class knowing it pushes me better than I can on my own. That class rocks me every time. Tomorrow...Rest Day and I am looking forward to it!
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Hail Damage...
Hail Damage...Spoon Beats...Cellulite. It is NOT a pretty site. I catch glimpses of myself in the gym mirror and can see every imperfection, dimple, roll...everything. I see women in their tight spandex pants and you can see everything! Why do we wear them?! I realized it tonight...As I was doing squats at the gym today I could see myself in the mirror and I would catch glimpses of these little dimples that seemed to want revenge for my being lazy over the years. Doing nothing but cardio in the past, thinking this was the answer. Cardio will eat any muscle that you have and I realize that now. I have been an on again...off again...thin, fat person. As I would watch these imperfections staring back at me...laughing...I would push harder, squat lower, squeezing my ass with all of my might...hoping, praying, wishing for these little ugly butt bubbles to GO AWAY!!! I will wear these gray spandex pants with these cute pink stripes going down the sides until I NO LONGER see what is happening under them. I MUST work harder. And I will. ;)
I ate like a Champion today! No cheating for this gal! While taking my horse pill (multivitamin) that I gag down daily thinking what a great day when I can choke it down, I was reading the back of the bottle. 'Take 3 pills daily with food.' THREE?! Oops. This is a far fetch from the chewable Flintstones vitamins that I have taken for several years.
Breakfast: (within one hour of waking)
Green Goddess of Hotness Protein Shake (see prior post for this amazing fat burning recipe)
On my way to work:
Coffee/1 pkt Truvia/1 Tbsp. All Natural vanilla creamer (35 cals)
Snack:
Pumpkin Protein Bar (see recipe in prior post)
Unsweetened Iced Green Tea
Lunch:
6 oz. Chicken Breast
Salad: (Romaine & Spinach)
Added: Grilled Peppers, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Mushrooms, 2 Tbsp. Black Beans
Snack:
2 Turkey Protein Balls (see recipe in prior post)
Dinner:
Protein Shake- 1 Scoop Vanilla Egg Protein, Spinach, 4 Strawberries, Key Lime Low fat/Low sugar/Low Carb Yogurt/water to get things moving
My Workout Tonight consisted of:
(3 Sets of 12)
**Wide Stance Barbell Squats are what I call SUMO Squats and man...they are KILLER! Try them! Spread your legs out nice and wide and squat down nice and low...do this for 3 sets of 12...Haha...hurts so good! Now add a barbell with weight added. OUCH!
I ate like a Champion today! No cheating for this gal! While taking my horse pill (multivitamin) that I gag down daily thinking what a great day when I can choke it down, I was reading the back of the bottle. 'Take 3 pills daily with food.' THREE?! Oops. This is a far fetch from the chewable Flintstones vitamins that I have taken for several years.
Breakfast: (within one hour of waking)
Green Goddess of Hotness Protein Shake (see prior post for this amazing fat burning recipe)
On my way to work:
Coffee/1 pkt Truvia/1 Tbsp. All Natural vanilla creamer (35 cals)
Snack:
Pumpkin Protein Bar (see recipe in prior post)
Unsweetened Iced Green Tea
Lunch:
6 oz. Chicken Breast
Salad: (Romaine & Spinach)
Added: Grilled Peppers, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Mushrooms, 2 Tbsp. Black Beans
Snack:
2 Turkey Protein Balls (see recipe in prior post)
Dinner:
Protein Shake- 1 Scoop Vanilla Egg Protein, Spinach, 4 Strawberries, Key Lime Low fat/Low sugar/Low Carb Yogurt/water to get things moving
My Workout Tonight consisted of:
(3 Sets of 12)
Leg Press
Leg Extensions
Wide Stance Barbell Squats
Seated Leg Curl
Standing Calf Raises
Seated Calf Raises
**Wide Stance Barbell Squats are what I call SUMO Squats and man...they are KILLER! Try them! Spread your legs out nice and wide and squat down nice and low...do this for 3 sets of 12...Haha...hurts so good! Now add a barbell with weight added. OUCH!
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Sweet Kicks!
It's Day 8 Baby and I am disciplined and as focused as ever. I ate well, I did the workout that I needed to do and I am beat. I have had several people message me wondering why the program won't allow cardio during the first four weeks. Here is the answer per the creator Jamie Eason; "Forgoing the cardio in the first phase allowed your body to use all of the "clean" calories it consumed for everyday activities and building muscle. By introducing medium-intensity cardio in Phase Two, we'll begin to facilitate fat burning, while minimizing the risk of losing any hard-earned muscle." Ahhhh.... you see? Anything that says 'fat burning' sounds Fabulous to me! :)
On a serious note...Aren't these shoes amazing? I love these shoes and if there is a weakness that I might have it is for cute shoes to workout in. I have several pairs and I have a problem. They ALL hurt my feet! It is the weirdest pain too...the bottoms of my feet will just burn. Does anyone have this problem or know what it is from or how to fix it? They burn so bad doing squats, lunges, jogging, etc. Anything that I do...they hurt. So HELP me people...please tell me where I can find some shoes that won't HURT me feet!
Monday, April 1, 2013
Tan Fat Is Way Hotter Than White Fat...
It's True. I can prove it. Ladies, slather on the fake tanning creams, lotions, whatever you can find because it WORKS. Even a slight orange fat looks hotter than white fat. I do it and I swear I look 10 lbs thinner. :) It's just a great idea! Try it and your man will think you spent a day at the beach! WOW. Instant Hot.
WOOHOOO!!! One week down baby! 11 more to go! Well, please
don’t think that after my 12 week program that I am going to just start eating
Taco Bell, Chocolate Bars and drinking vodka like a fish! Nor will I just sit
around and lounge. I am full on determined for a complete body transformation
and I will stay focused until I get there! (Dear Lord, only through your
strength will this be possible)
I am sure you want me to blast out my weekly weight
loss…haha. Not going to happen. I really don’t want to step on a scale until
the 12th week. I have seen too many times the scale screaming back
at me a number that would send me straight into a binge. Not this time evil scale…not
this time.
For those of you that don’t know, I am a mom of two, I have
a full-time job, football practices and games, fund-raising, homework, cooking,
cleaning and everything else we all struggle with in our daily lives. I have
realized after several years (11 to be exact) of dieting and exercising the
absolute KEY to success!! I know, seems impossible after one week of this. But
I feel like I have figured it out! FOOD PREP. Pick a day of the week and
cook/create your meals for the entire week! This way, when you are famished you
already have something prepped and ready to go! I swear I wish I would have
done this years ago…this is the key, I just know it!
I chose Sunday for my food prep day because it is the day I
spend doing any laundry, grocery shopping and cleaning that needs to be done
prior to the start of the week. So, yesterday, I made the Turkey Balls and the
Pumpkin protein bars. I also grilled peppers for my salads each day for lunch
along with the chicken breast. I kicked those up a bit by baking them in
reduced sodium, fat-free chicken broth and seasoned with a Kickin-Chicken seasoning.
I also have fresh cucumber, broccoli, cauliflower and celery sticks to grab
when need be. Make it simple…that is the key. The first time I did a meal prep
it took me over 3 hours. Haha. Now I have the recipes down so it was super
fast!
Today was a great day. I feel zero change in my body other
than I feel happier, focused, and have more energy. I will be patient and
remember my ultimate goal. There is not one Cheeto, Frito, Vodka, Chocolate Cake that will deter my vision. Let’s just test the 12 week theory and see if
it works! If it does…than…what will our lovely excuse be? And if I can do it…I
promise anyone can. I have temptation in my face every single day. My work
place always has a birthday, event, celebration, seems like daily. And if I can turn it down, so can you. :)
My eating was perfecto today! I had my vitamins, fat burners and my gallon of water. My workout tonight was triceps and it was killer. I loved the burn. After my workout, I had the Egg Protein shake mixed with water, strawberries, spinach and low fat/sugar yogurt. It was super delicious...now praying for a calm, stomach friendly night. :)
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Did I Blow It???
Did I blow it? Saturday night...out with
friends...hungry...Crab-legs? While eating these amazing, delicious legs
I didn't think twice about it! It's seafood! It was steamed...no butter
of course. However, this morning I checked out the 'approved'
food list...they aren't ON There!!! I am super bummed about it too
because they were sooo delicious! :( I guess if I'm going to eat
something off the list, these aren't the worst thing for me being what I
really wanted was the pasta primavera with shrimp. :)
What's your favorite cheat meal?
What's your favorite cheat meal?
Saturday, March 30, 2013
BodyPump Rocks!
I woke up this morning feeling super excited to start my day with a BodyPump class! I had my breakfast first of course, the "plan" wants you to eat within the first hour of waking up. So I had my normal breakfast of egg whites with some spinach. I upped the whites to 5 which the plan suggests. I took a few sips of coffee, a big glass of water with my vitamin and fat burner and out the door I went!
BodyPump is a LES MILLS barbell class. It is known to sculpt, strengthen and tone your entire body, fast!
You do squats, presses, lifts, curls, situps, pushups...every muscle group is challenged. The reason I love take the class is because if I workout on my own, once the burning of the muscles begins and the going gets tough...I stop! With taking a class, there are several people all doing the same moves so if you stop you stand out like a sore thumb, therefore it pushes me to my limits. Almost throwing up each class and sweat dripping down my arms is a sign that I am pushing myself and THAT is exactly what this lazy girl needs!!
After class, I went to GNC to look for the Egg Protein, which I have heard might work vs. the Whey protein that ROCKS my stomach. I know GNC is so ridiculously over priced, but I wanted to see if maybe they had a sample of their brand to try or something. The salesperson was a younger gentleman, I asked if he had any Egg Protein and he said, "Yeah, it's over here, however I wouldn't buy anything from GNC! They are so over-priced!" He continued on a 15 minute rant about how I shouldn't buy anything from there! I couldn't believe it! I told him I knew they were over priced however, it was convenient vs. waiting 5 days for a shipment. He said, "Well, I would wait the 3 days if I were you." Haha! I left the store empty handed and let my husband know what happened. The hubs didn't like that at all so he called the store manager/owner.
My afternoon consisted of making Turkey Balls for this next week and the carrot cake protein bars. Should I post recipes? The pumpkin protein bars are SOOO much better than the carrot cake ones. The pumpkin ones were so moist and delicious, slap some cream cheese on them and you have pumpkin bread. Yum. (Of course, I am just pretending I have cream cheese on mine). The carrot ones are fairly dry.
For lunch, I made a turkey burger with a side salad. I just used the left over 6 oz of turkey from the balls and threw in some chopped onion, celery, pepper, chipotle pepper, garlic powder and dry yellow mustard. BOMB. So good! I was so pleased with my concoction, I took a pic!;)
I went to a movie with the hubs today..."The Incredible Burt Wonderstone" and we weren't impressed. There were a few funny parts. While the hubs was noshing on popcorn and peanut M&M's, I drank my water. Tonight we will go to a place called The Oyster Bar and I will enjoy seafood of some sort. Looking forward to it actually, hopefully making up for the oil drenched fish last night.
BodyPump is a LES MILLS barbell class. It is known to sculpt, strengthen and tone your entire body, fast!
You do squats, presses, lifts, curls, situps, pushups...every muscle group is challenged. The reason I love take the class is because if I workout on my own, once the burning of the muscles begins and the going gets tough...I stop! With taking a class, there are several people all doing the same moves so if you stop you stand out like a sore thumb, therefore it pushes me to my limits. Almost throwing up each class and sweat dripping down my arms is a sign that I am pushing myself and THAT is exactly what this lazy girl needs!!
After class, I went to GNC to look for the Egg Protein, which I have heard might work vs. the Whey protein that ROCKS my stomach. I know GNC is so ridiculously over priced, but I wanted to see if maybe they had a sample of their brand to try or something. The salesperson was a younger gentleman, I asked if he had any Egg Protein and he said, "Yeah, it's over here, however I wouldn't buy anything from GNC! They are so over-priced!" He continued on a 15 minute rant about how I shouldn't buy anything from there! I couldn't believe it! I told him I knew they were over priced however, it was convenient vs. waiting 5 days for a shipment. He said, "Well, I would wait the 3 days if I were you." Haha! I left the store empty handed and let my husband know what happened. The hubs didn't like that at all so he called the store manager/owner.
My afternoon consisted of making Turkey Balls for this next week and the carrot cake protein bars. Should I post recipes? The pumpkin protein bars are SOOO much better than the carrot cake ones. The pumpkin ones were so moist and delicious, slap some cream cheese on them and you have pumpkin bread. Yum. (Of course, I am just pretending I have cream cheese on mine). The carrot ones are fairly dry.
For lunch, I made a turkey burger with a side salad. I just used the left over 6 oz of turkey from the balls and threw in some chopped onion, celery, pepper, chipotle pepper, garlic powder and dry yellow mustard. BOMB. So good! I was so pleased with my concoction, I took a pic!;)
I went to a movie with the hubs today..."The Incredible Burt Wonderstone" and we weren't impressed. There were a few funny parts. While the hubs was noshing on popcorn and peanut M&M's, I drank my water. Tonight we will go to a place called The Oyster Bar and I will enjoy seafood of some sort. Looking forward to it actually, hopefully making up for the oil drenched fish last night.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Weekend Struggles...
Happy Friday!! I took the day off from work today...I just needed a day to get things done. I haven't been sick (thankfully) all year so why not a day off just for errands and fun? The hubs works from home so we took the day to finish up some yard work. Well...not quite finished, but we put a nice dent in it! :)
I took the opportunity today to test my fat burner pill and the multivitamin (all known to upset my stomach in the past) and I have to say...so far so good! Whew! Now, to just figure out the whey protein...maybe taking it in small increments will build up my stomach for it. I will try the Omega pill tomorrow. (Grossss fish oil in my belly...) I will try it and hope for the best!!
Tonight we are meeting friends for dinner and I struggle with the weekends and the eating, drinking and sometimes more drinking! Living in Las Vegas, there is always something to do and we are so blessed with great friends that want to spend time, have fun and drink with us. However, I know what alcohol can do to the metabolism so this will be a tough one for me. Also, eating at a restaurant will be difficult I am sure. I have looked up the menu online and was able to find a fish selection that I will ask to be only seasoned with lemon and then maybe a side salad...we will see how this goes.
I had a great morning! I was super excited to find a coffee that I like from home! I made it with a small packet of Truvia and barely a Tbsp. of the All natural creamer...only 35 calories baby! Woo Woo!!! SUCCESS WAS FOUND TODAYYYY!!! There was this great article I read today from someone who was looking to transform her body last year and she did the same plan that I am doing. She said her key to success was to BE PATIENT. Do not expect to see results until after the 4th week. This is what I will focus on being I want instant results and we all know this is impossible. Body transformation takes time. Here's to hoping 12 weeks is enough time! wink wink
Today's Menu:
Breakfast:
4 Eggs whites scrambled w/tad but of onion and spinach/splash of Tapatio hot sauce
1 slice Ezekiel Bread (toasted) w/a tad of almond butter and sugar free jelly for taste only
Coffee
Fat Burner
Snack:
Pumpkin Protein Bars
Iced Green Tea
Lunch:
1 corn tortilla with 6 oz. shredded chicken
Lettuce/Tbsp of pico/a few pieces of avocado
Fat Burner/Multivitamin
Snack:
Turkey Balls! Woot! Woot!
**We are back from our dinner with friends. I did pretty well...I think. A little disappointed though because it was tough ordering the food the way I wanted it done. I ordered the Tilapia/grilled and I asked for them to just season with lemon. The sides were steamed broccoli and green beans. What arrived was a plate of what looked like was drowned in oil of some sort. Needless to say I did not finish it all and actually came home hungry. I am not sure I will be able to the restaurant thing.
THE WORKOUT PLAN:
The first week the plan is to work out 4 days with weights and 3 days off. However, because of my dousing of oil tonight I will be going to a BodyPump class in the morning. It will be a great way to start my Saturday!
I took the opportunity today to test my fat burner pill and the multivitamin (all known to upset my stomach in the past) and I have to say...so far so good! Whew! Now, to just figure out the whey protein...maybe taking it in small increments will build up my stomach for it. I will try the Omega pill tomorrow. (Grossss fish oil in my belly...) I will try it and hope for the best!!
Tonight we are meeting friends for dinner and I struggle with the weekends and the eating, drinking and sometimes more drinking! Living in Las Vegas, there is always something to do and we are so blessed with great friends that want to spend time, have fun and drink with us. However, I know what alcohol can do to the metabolism so this will be a tough one for me. Also, eating at a restaurant will be difficult I am sure. I have looked up the menu online and was able to find a fish selection that I will ask to be only seasoned with lemon and then maybe a side salad...we will see how this goes.
I had a great morning! I was super excited to find a coffee that I like from home! I made it with a small packet of Truvia and barely a Tbsp. of the All natural creamer...only 35 calories baby! Woo Woo!!! SUCCESS WAS FOUND TODAYYYY!!! There was this great article I read today from someone who was looking to transform her body last year and she did the same plan that I am doing. She said her key to success was to BE PATIENT. Do not expect to see results until after the 4th week. This is what I will focus on being I want instant results and we all know this is impossible. Body transformation takes time. Here's to hoping 12 weeks is enough time! wink wink
Today's Menu:
Breakfast:
4 Eggs whites scrambled w/tad but of onion and spinach/splash of Tapatio hot sauce
1 slice Ezekiel Bread (toasted) w/a tad of almond butter and sugar free jelly for taste only
Coffee
Fat Burner
Snack:
Pumpkin Protein Bars
Iced Green Tea
Lunch:
1 corn tortilla with 6 oz. shredded chicken
Lettuce/Tbsp of pico/a few pieces of avocado
Fat Burner/Multivitamin
Snack:
Turkey Balls! Woot! Woot!
**We are back from our dinner with friends. I did pretty well...I think. A little disappointed though because it was tough ordering the food the way I wanted it done. I ordered the Tilapia/grilled and I asked for them to just season with lemon. The sides were steamed broccoli and green beans. What arrived was a plate of what looked like was drowned in oil of some sort. Needless to say I did not finish it all and actually came home hungry. I am not sure I will be able to the restaurant thing.
THE WORKOUT PLAN:
The first week the plan is to work out 4 days with weights and 3 days off. However, because of my dousing of oil tonight I will be going to a BodyPump class in the morning. It will be a great way to start my Saturday!
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Whey Doesn't Like Me...
Day 4 of The Plan...Super excited about my supplements arriving yesterday! When I got home last night after my workout I thought it would be a perfect time for me to try the whey protein so I whipped it up with some almond milk and ice. I added a wee bit of a flavored low carb/low fat/low cal/low sugar yogurt and threw in some flax seed. It was delicious! I never know if I can trust the protein shakes because I have tried a few in the past and they seem to Rock my stomach. And when I say Rock...I mean, bloated, gassy, pain... it is nothing pleasant of the sort! And once again...my stomach was ROCKED. Therefore, I didn't sleep well last night and was mad at myself for thinking this one would be any different! What is it?! I am not lactose intolerant! Does anyone know what it could be? Or an alternative? I know that I cannot get the results that I want without supplements. I opened the bottle of the fat burner and the pills are the size of a house. (Instant gag)... this is going to be so fun. I will wait to take the pills when I have a day off to see how I will react. Apparently, I have a super sensitive stomach.Yay Me!
Today I was more hungry than normal which I typically always am the day after a good, hard, sweatin workout..
What I Ate Today:
Breakfast:
4 egg whites scrambled with a tad of onion and spinach/spiced it up with some tapatio hot sauce.
1 slice Ezekiel Bread (toasted) w/a tad of almond butter and sugar free jelly. (teeny tiny amount) just for a bit of flavor.
Coffee of course...ugh...working on this one.
Snack: Pumpkin protein bars
Iced Green Tea (Unsweetened)
Lunch: The hubs was back in town so he picked me up and we went to lunch at Chipotle.
Salad (no dressing)- Little black beans, peppers, chicken & pico.
I love Chipotle. The sodium is high on the chicken so I was sure to up my gallon of water another 8oz. The salad ends up being approx: 360 cals (I choose to take some away because I get very little black beans added to it)
I was able to give myself props for passing up on their delicious salty lime chips and the guacamole that is the best I have ever had! :)
Snack/Prior to the gym:
2 Turkey Balls BABYYYY w/mustard. I just love these balls...seriously...amazing and hits the meat spot when you are so hungry from working out.
Dinner/After workout:
6 shrimp/peppers and onions (grilled)
4 Egg whites
*Multivitamin/B-12/No whey protein/No flax (not today)/Gallon of water + 8oz.
The Gym Plan:
My plan was to go to the gym today and do the Day 4 Plan, which was shoulders and abs and when I got there I remembered they were having a BodyPump class. I just had to do it...so I did both! Extra work couldn't hurt, right?
What a FABULOUS workout! I had sweat dripping down my arms. This instructor kicked my butt! I didn't think she would be able to keep her side plank pose or whatever is was for too long before she broke out in laughter watching me...shake...convulsively...trying to hold this pose for what seemed like forever. She had to laugh...which I forgive her. I am sure I looked like I had not a muscle in this weak body to hold myself up. Apparently, she hasn't carried around my junk to know JUST how hard that really is... and I am spent. Goooood night my now 30 friends. XOXO
Today I was more hungry than normal which I typically always am the day after a good, hard, sweatin workout..
What I Ate Today:
Breakfast:
4 egg whites scrambled with a tad of onion and spinach/spiced it up with some tapatio hot sauce.
1 slice Ezekiel Bread (toasted) w/a tad of almond butter and sugar free jelly. (teeny tiny amount) just for a bit of flavor.
Coffee of course...ugh...working on this one.
Snack: Pumpkin protein bars
Iced Green Tea (Unsweetened)
Lunch: The hubs was back in town so he picked me up and we went to lunch at Chipotle.
Salad (no dressing)- Little black beans, peppers, chicken & pico.
I love Chipotle. The sodium is high on the chicken so I was sure to up my gallon of water another 8oz. The salad ends up being approx: 360 cals (I choose to take some away because I get very little black beans added to it)
I was able to give myself props for passing up on their delicious salty lime chips and the guacamole that is the best I have ever had! :)
Snack/Prior to the gym:
2 Turkey Balls BABYYYY w/mustard. I just love these balls...seriously...amazing and hits the meat spot when you are so hungry from working out.
Dinner/After workout:
6 shrimp/peppers and onions (grilled)
4 Egg whites
*Multivitamin/B-12/No whey protein/No flax (not today)/Gallon of water + 8oz.
The Gym Plan:
My plan was to go to the gym today and do the Day 4 Plan, which was shoulders and abs and when I got there I remembered they were having a BodyPump class. I just had to do it...so I did both! Extra work couldn't hurt, right?
What a FABULOUS workout! I had sweat dripping down my arms. This instructor kicked my butt! I didn't think she would be able to keep her side plank pose or whatever is was for too long before she broke out in laughter watching me...shake...convulsively...trying to hold this pose for what seemed like forever. She had to laugh...which I forgive her. I am sure I looked like I had not a muscle in this weak body to hold myself up. Apparently, she hasn't carried around my junk to know JUST how hard that really is... and I am spent. Goooood night my now 30 friends. XOXO
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Supplements or No Supplements??
I am three days in to this "challenge" and I am a little sore, but nothing I cannot handle. I love, love, love feeling sore. It means I did something. I sit all day at my job feeling my butt grow and so to get up and move, feel the burn, sweat and almost feel like vomiting...I love that feeling. I hate working out. I will be so motivated to hit the gym after work all day until about an hour before. Then my brain tries really hard to talk me out of it. I will force myself to show up and when I am finished I feel so good! It is completely addicting and it is all about just getting in the habit. I had mentioned before, I seem to be working out all the time so this is not something new that I have experienced in the last few days. I have made the decision to stop just being a treadmill runner. I have been doing that for too long with zero change in my body other than maintenance. I have become bored. Bored with not changing. Life is short and precious...I cannot live it any longer not trying my hardest to eat better, exercise and Rock what the Good Lord has given me.
Guess what came today?? My Supplements!!! I was so excited to open my box of presents! It was like Christmas. Included was a Multivitamin, Omega-3's, a Fat Burner and Whey protein. All of them will probably rock my stomach but LET'S DO THIS! :) And let's just hope they don't give me gas. Crossing fingers!!! Eeek!
I sucked it up today and took my "before" pictures. Hahahahahah hahahha hahahhaaa... Oh my, it is a good thing I decided to do this because I am definitely NOT looking good enough to rock a swim suit this summer. Geez. How frustrating. I weigh in at 167 lbs. Which means, I have gained 7 pounds since the holidays. This is not good. When doing my stats for the competition, they put me at 25% body fat. WOW. That's gross. Way to go Em! Not only that...but it also gave me results that my goal weight will be 135 lbs. Hahahaha Hahahaa.... I am pretty sure the last time I have seen 135 lbs was in the 7th grade. That is no lie. I am 5'10" and cannot imagine weighing in the 130's. Seems foreign and impossible. The least I weighed was when I went on a low carb diet and I stuck to it for a year. Didn't cheat even one time. No sugar, no alcohol ( I know, crazy) and I weighed 152. That was rock star status for me. I lost every pound of muscle that I had during this time too. I try very hard to visualize my new body at 135 lbs and I just cannot see it. I pray for it, I will be super positive about it and I will work very hard for it...so let's just see what happens. I am so thankful that Adam ate the apple so we could wear clothes. Thank you Jesus...Adam. Both of you.
Today I ate pretty well the same thing. I gagged for some reason eating the pumpkin protein bar, that was weird. I don't think I was hungry but had to eat that small meal to stay on the plan. I am trying to fit in my 5-6 small meals and it is plenty. I watch my portions and I don't think I will ever get to the 6th meal...it's just too much. If I followed the plan to a T...perfectly...I would be eating 10 egg whites a day. Do the math...70 eggs a week!! GAG! Ugh...I just cannot do it. Not yet anyway. The grilled shrimp and peppers on my salad had me feeling like the pro chef that I am dying to be. It was delicious!!! My turkey balls were fabulous and really hit the spot! I drank my gallon of water and then hit the gym.
The Workout:
3 sets of 12 reps each
Leg Press
Leg Extensions
Wide Stance Barbell Squat
Seated Leg Curl
Standing Calf Raises
Seated Calf Raise
Remember: No Cardio!!!
And let me tell you... Woooieeeeee are those Wide Stance Barbell Squats KILLER!!! I love them!!!! I dare you to try them!!! Awesome. Hopefully those will lift this ass up to a more respectable level.
Guess what came today?? My Supplements!!! I was so excited to open my box of presents! It was like Christmas. Included was a Multivitamin, Omega-3's, a Fat Burner and Whey protein. All of them will probably rock my stomach but LET'S DO THIS! :) And let's just hope they don't give me gas. Crossing fingers!!! Eeek!
I sucked it up today and took my "before" pictures. Hahahahahah hahahha hahahhaaa... Oh my, it is a good thing I decided to do this because I am definitely NOT looking good enough to rock a swim suit this summer. Geez. How frustrating. I weigh in at 167 lbs. Which means, I have gained 7 pounds since the holidays. This is not good. When doing my stats for the competition, they put me at 25% body fat. WOW. That's gross. Way to go Em! Not only that...but it also gave me results that my goal weight will be 135 lbs. Hahahaha Hahahaa.... I am pretty sure the last time I have seen 135 lbs was in the 7th grade. That is no lie. I am 5'10" and cannot imagine weighing in the 130's. Seems foreign and impossible. The least I weighed was when I went on a low carb diet and I stuck to it for a year. Didn't cheat even one time. No sugar, no alcohol ( I know, crazy) and I weighed 152. That was rock star status for me. I lost every pound of muscle that I had during this time too. I try very hard to visualize my new body at 135 lbs and I just cannot see it. I pray for it, I will be super positive about it and I will work very hard for it...so let's just see what happens. I am so thankful that Adam ate the apple so we could wear clothes. Thank you Jesus...Adam. Both of you.
Today I ate pretty well the same thing. I gagged for some reason eating the pumpkin protein bar, that was weird. I don't think I was hungry but had to eat that small meal to stay on the plan. I am trying to fit in my 5-6 small meals and it is plenty. I watch my portions and I don't think I will ever get to the 6th meal...it's just too much. If I followed the plan to a T...perfectly...I would be eating 10 egg whites a day. Do the math...70 eggs a week!! GAG! Ugh...I just cannot do it. Not yet anyway. The grilled shrimp and peppers on my salad had me feeling like the pro chef that I am dying to be. It was delicious!!! My turkey balls were fabulous and really hit the spot! I drank my gallon of water and then hit the gym.
The Workout:
3 sets of 12 reps each
Leg Press
Leg Extensions
Wide Stance Barbell Squat
Seated Leg Curl
Standing Calf Raises
Seated Calf Raise
Remember: No Cardio!!!
And let me tell you... Woooieeeeee are those Wide Stance Barbell Squats KILLER!!! I love them!!!! I dare you to try them!!! Awesome. Hopefully those will lift this ass up to a more respectable level.
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Mmm...Coffee....
Ok sooooo.... I woke up this morning with a horrible headache. It wasn't just a headache, it was a YOU BETTER GIVE ME COFFEE OR YOU WILL SUFFER!! I realized that I cannot give up coffee. The withdraws are so bad that I cannot imagine going for 1 week or 12 for that matter without it. So, on my way to work...I caved. Starbucks missed me. (I lasted 24 hours). What? Don't judge me! I needed it and I loved every sip of it. The good news? I only ordered a Tall Cinnamon Dolce Latte...Extra Hot of course and only 100 calories so I am NOT going to feel bad about this decision. :) And what do you know...my headache immediately disappeared. It's amazing!
I found out today after reading the fine print of the contest challenge...that I have to take "Before" pics...in a bathing suit! I don't think I can do this now! Oh my gosh...the panic. I thought I could throw on my gym clothes and call it good...yeah, no. So now I have 6 days to post them and I just don't know if I have any courage to do such a thing. Seriously...when I look at peoples "Before" pictures I cannot believe the courage they have...yet everyone focuses on the "After" pic so it makes it worth it! I still think I would die if people seen me in a bathing suit.
My second day definitely went better than the first. I drank my gallon of water like a champ and ate all my little portions of food...it was a great day!
My Menu for the day included pretty well the same as yesterday. Boring. BUT...I have high hopes that possibly I could get creative and find time to meal prep better tasting food. I need a chef. Seriously. I need someone to cook healthy foods for me! Life would be so much easier. The hubs...cooks mac-n-cheese. That is it. Well....every once in a great while he can grill an amazing steak. So, I am on my own here.
I have two friends doing this 12 week body transformation challenge with me and one of them cooks like a friggen pro chef of some sorts. She is a foodie 100% and I cannot believe the things she cooks. I go to work every single day with an apple for a snack, a salad with chicken and veges for lunch and a grapefruit. She will come to work with bacon wrapped steak and asparagus, chicken marinated in teriyaki sauce with rice, etc. And every single day...something different! Shrimp, steak, chicken, oh the variety!!! She is a goddess in the kitchen and I have zero talent.
My workout today consisted of a Body Pump class. I had to incorporate the "Challenge" workout so I did extra bicep work because today was bicep day. :) I hope my 4 fans are having fun reading this blog! Maybe soon I will get spunky enough to start posting pics!
I found out today after reading the fine print of the contest challenge...that I have to take "Before" pics...in a bathing suit! I don't think I can do this now! Oh my gosh...the panic. I thought I could throw on my gym clothes and call it good...yeah, no. So now I have 6 days to post them and I just don't know if I have any courage to do such a thing. Seriously...when I look at peoples "Before" pictures I cannot believe the courage they have...yet everyone focuses on the "After" pic so it makes it worth it! I still think I would die if people seen me in a bathing suit.
My second day definitely went better than the first. I drank my gallon of water like a champ and ate all my little portions of food...it was a great day!
My Menu for the day included pretty well the same as yesterday. Boring. BUT...I have high hopes that possibly I could get creative and find time to meal prep better tasting food. I need a chef. Seriously. I need someone to cook healthy foods for me! Life would be so much easier. The hubs...cooks mac-n-cheese. That is it. Well....every once in a great while he can grill an amazing steak. So, I am on my own here.
I have two friends doing this 12 week body transformation challenge with me and one of them cooks like a friggen pro chef of some sorts. She is a foodie 100% and I cannot believe the things she cooks. I go to work every single day with an apple for a snack, a salad with chicken and veges for lunch and a grapefruit. She will come to work with bacon wrapped steak and asparagus, chicken marinated in teriyaki sauce with rice, etc. And every single day...something different! Shrimp, steak, chicken, oh the variety!!! She is a goddess in the kitchen and I have zero talent.
My workout today consisted of a Body Pump class. I had to incorporate the "Challenge" workout so I did extra bicep work because today was bicep day. :) I hope my 4 fans are having fun reading this blog! Maybe soon I will get spunky enough to start posting pics!
Monday, March 25, 2013
Day 1: Well...This Should Be Interesting
And so my journey begins. My love for carbs, chocolate and cocktails have led me to start this blog. Possibly to make me more accountable for my consistent poor choices and or just maybe to find some humor through it all. :)
I decided a few days ago to kick this 'chit' up a notch and join a body building challenge. My husband thinks I am crazy, however, will support any weight loss decision I make...probably in fear. I will start the plan tomorrow because it's Monday...and that's typically the best day of the week to start a diet, correct me if I am wrong. Today consisted of grocery shopping, buying a newspaper for my before pictures (yay!!!) and meal prepping. What is this meal prepping? I read several and I mean several transformation stories, blogs, articles, etc on this whole body transformation process and after doing my own meal preps for the week I have to say...it sucks! Who has time for this? My meal prep consisted of making Turkey Protein Balls and Pumpkin Protein Bars. I also bought a food scale yesterday which I swore I would never be that person...but here I am. :) I cooked chicken breast with a little olive oil and Mrs. Dash and then perfectly portioned them to 6 ounces. I even cut up cucumbers and celery sticks for snacks. Sounds amazing doesn't it? I tasted a piece of the chicken and I obviously need help with making moist, delicious chicken. It was dry and bland so I am definitely looking forward to my lunches this week.
THE PLAN:
I will follow a three phase exercise and eating plan. The first phase is only weight lifting so I won't be doing any cardio until the second phase which is opposite of my normal running on the treadmill, almost passing out on the stair master, being bored out of my mind on the elliptical and seeing no changes in my body. You see, working out is something I've almost always done. I say almost always because there have been times I threw in the towel and gave up for several months but then would always find my way back on a treadmill. For the past several years I have worked out consistently and then about six months ago I finally bought a gym membership. I have gone to the gym 3-4 times a week and I am bored. Bored with no changes. I am ready for muscles!! I am ready for a hot body at heading towards forty with a hot ass so I will get in a bikini this summer without my infamous cloak on over it! I am ready to feel confident in shorts vs. pants in 118 degree weather here in the beautiful hot as hell Las Vegas summer weather.
The food will consist of 5-6 small meals per day. I will drink a gallon of water, include some green tea, a multi-vitamin, B-12, omega 3 and eventually supplements. Supplements might be my answer to kickin this 'chit' up a notch. I worry about supplements being I once conquered P90X and followed the plan identically and only lost one pound and a few inches. I also felt super bloated and gassy from the whey protein and the omega 3's seem to upset my stomach as well. Although, this might just be in my head...the thought of fish oils in my stomach just makes me queasy.
I turned 35 years old this month, I am married for the second time and have two amazing boys. They are 12 and 8 years old and are the absolute best thing that has ever happened to me. My husband is also a best thing that's ever happened to me on a different level of children. He saved me from the deep hells of depression that my first marriage caused me. Another story for another day. Regardless of the twists and turns this world can take you through feeling old and fluffy like busted biscuits just isn't an option. I say that as I am savoring my second glass of wine and reminiscing over my day of polishing off a bag of Cadbury chocolate eggs and eating Fritos with cheese dip. I know...absolutely disgusting and what no woman would want to really publicly admit, however it was damn good.
I decided a few days ago to kick this 'chit' up a notch and join a body building challenge. My husband thinks I am crazy, however, will support any weight loss decision I make...probably in fear. I will start the plan tomorrow because it's Monday...and that's typically the best day of the week to start a diet, correct me if I am wrong. Today consisted of grocery shopping, buying a newspaper for my before pictures (yay!!!) and meal prepping. What is this meal prepping? I read several and I mean several transformation stories, blogs, articles, etc on this whole body transformation process and after doing my own meal preps for the week I have to say...it sucks! Who has time for this? My meal prep consisted of making Turkey Protein Balls and Pumpkin Protein Bars. I also bought a food scale yesterday which I swore I would never be that person...but here I am. :) I cooked chicken breast with a little olive oil and Mrs. Dash and then perfectly portioned them to 6 ounces. I even cut up cucumbers and celery sticks for snacks. Sounds amazing doesn't it? I tasted a piece of the chicken and I obviously need help with making moist, delicious chicken. It was dry and bland so I am definitely looking forward to my lunches this week.
THE PLAN:
I will follow a three phase exercise and eating plan. The first phase is only weight lifting so I won't be doing any cardio until the second phase which is opposite of my normal running on the treadmill, almost passing out on the stair master, being bored out of my mind on the elliptical and seeing no changes in my body. You see, working out is something I've almost always done. I say almost always because there have been times I threw in the towel and gave up for several months but then would always find my way back on a treadmill. For the past several years I have worked out consistently and then about six months ago I finally bought a gym membership. I have gone to the gym 3-4 times a week and I am bored. Bored with no changes. I am ready for muscles!! I am ready for a hot body at heading towards forty with a hot ass so I will get in a bikini this summer without my infamous cloak on over it! I am ready to feel confident in shorts vs. pants in 118 degree weather here in the beautiful hot as hell Las Vegas summer weather.
The food will consist of 5-6 small meals per day. I will drink a gallon of water, include some green tea, a multi-vitamin, B-12, omega 3 and eventually supplements. Supplements might be my answer to kickin this 'chit' up a notch. I worry about supplements being I once conquered P90X and followed the plan identically and only lost one pound and a few inches. I also felt super bloated and gassy from the whey protein and the omega 3's seem to upset my stomach as well. Although, this might just be in my head...the thought of fish oils in my stomach just makes me queasy.
I turned 35 years old this month, I am married for the second time and have two amazing boys. They are 12 and 8 years old and are the absolute best thing that has ever happened to me. My husband is also a best thing that's ever happened to me on a different level of children. He saved me from the deep hells of depression that my first marriage caused me. Another story for another day. Regardless of the twists and turns this world can take you through feeling old and fluffy like busted biscuits just isn't an option. I say that as I am savoring my second glass of wine and reminiscing over my day of polishing off a bag of Cadbury chocolate eggs and eating Fritos with cheese dip. I know...absolutely disgusting and what no woman would want to really publicly admit, however it was damn good.
Potty Breaks
I am not going to lie...today was rough. My normal routine every morning is a cup of extra hot coffee and then at least 3 days a week I will grab a skinny latte at Starbucks on my way to work. The days that I don't get my delicious espresso filled 180 degree beverage...I think about it and can't focus until I either go get one or succumb eventually to a diet Dr. Pepper. Thus my realization of the additional addiction that I have outside of carbs and chocolate...caffeine. I want to test myself this week and not purchase or drink any coffee and or diet sodas. Today was a rough one with this nice dull lingering headache and absolutely zero energy. However, I am super positive and motivated to make this happen!
My First Day of 'The Plan' Menu
Breakfast:
Four egg whites w/spinach
1 slice Ezekiel bread (toasted)
Snack:
Large glass of iced green tea
Pumpkin protein bar
Lunch:
Depressing...
Salad w/ 6oz dry, bland chicken breast
Veges
Snack:
Turkey protein balls
Dinner:
Canned Tuna
Green beans
**I have to say that the pumpkin protein bars were fabulous! It hit the spot being I was craving something a little sweet. Eating the afternoon snack of turkey balls...they were a bit spicy for me, however, they really hit the spot! I am not that impressed with my eating today. I will work on this being I will not last long eating such bland, boring food. A day eating like I did today is why people throw in the towel and start noshing on ice cream.
The plan suggests drinking at least a gallon of water and I accidentally lost count and probably drank two which had me taking several potty breaks at work. I feel skinnier already!
My Workout
Today's workout consisted of 3 sets of 12 reps:
Wide push-ups
Dumbbell Bench Press
Flat Bench Cable Flyes
Narrow Pushups
Standing Dumbbell Triceps Extension
Triceps Pushdown
**No Cardio!
My First Day of 'The Plan' Menu
Breakfast:
Four egg whites w/spinach
1 slice Ezekiel bread (toasted)
Snack:
Large glass of iced green tea
Pumpkin protein bar
Lunch:
Depressing...
Salad w/ 6oz dry, bland chicken breast
Veges
Snack:
Turkey protein balls
Dinner:
Canned Tuna
Green beans
**I have to say that the pumpkin protein bars were fabulous! It hit the spot being I was craving something a little sweet. Eating the afternoon snack of turkey balls...they were a bit spicy for me, however, they really hit the spot! I am not that impressed with my eating today. I will work on this being I will not last long eating such bland, boring food. A day eating like I did today is why people throw in the towel and start noshing on ice cream.
The plan suggests drinking at least a gallon of water and I accidentally lost count and probably drank two which had me taking several potty breaks at work. I feel skinnier already!
My Workout
Today's workout consisted of 3 sets of 12 reps:
Wide push-ups
Dumbbell Bench Press
Flat Bench Cable Flyes
Narrow Pushups
Standing Dumbbell Triceps Extension
Triceps Pushdown
**No Cardio!
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