It's a see saw weigh in!

 I gained.  I gained weight on my official Friday weigh in!  And no, I'm not happy about it!

Ok, I got that right out there didn't I!  No beating around the bushes.  I just had to say it!  I gained about 1.5 pounds in that week stretch.  I sit back and I want to say HOW.....I'm not eating horribly!   On my indulgent days, I am eating about 1600-1800 calories.  And I gain!  What is wrong with me!

OK, so enough about the whining!  This  is a chapter that repeats time and time again for me.  I KNOW that I can't eat 1600 calories...yet I continue to try!  I want my body to be 'normal'.  I want my body to lose weight at that range that should allow me to lose a pound a week ...if I am going strictly by the numbers.  BUT, my body is not like that.  My body has it's own unique sense of how weight should be lost.  Unfortunately for me, that means that I need to keep my calories closer to the 1200 range.  I can sneak it up to 1400  but that is my range.  1200-1400.  When I eat within that range, I lose.  Plain and simple!

Now, I HAVE talked to my doctor about my calorie range.  She knows that I don't lose at 1600....but I do at 1300.  And she simply said "well you know what you need to do and what your caloric goal needs to be".  So eating at that calorie range is doctor approved for me!

But why???  Why do I have to eat like a bird?   (which honestly...birds eat CONSTANTLY, so I don't get that saying).   Why do I have to watch every bite knowing that if I eat an extra piece of bread that the weight will pile on overnight?  Why do I have to restrict to 1200 calories, and existing on nibbling on raw carrots? (Not really, simply because I hate raw carrots...but that's what this journey feels like sometimes!) Why do I try so hard and not lose weight?   WHY WHY WHY!

Yes, I'm having a pity party!   I'm not giving up.  I know that I am worth every ounce of effort that I make!  BUT, dang if it isn't a difficult journey!

Frugal Friday: Frugal or Gluttony

 I recently made a purchase. The purchase was made at a really good bargain! But t wasn't something that I really needed. It will eventually come in handy, but it wasn't something that I needed. It brought to mind the question, when is it frugal and when is it gluttony?

The Catalyst for the Frugal vs Gluttony Question

A few weeks ago, I purchased a vintage style dress. I had been wanting one for quite some time and Jason has talked about me wearing a dress, so I went out looking. I stumbled upon this dress. Dresses are expensive, but I stumbled on this one while on facebook and it was only $30! I fell in love and bought it. I tried it on and once I found out that it would fit and be perfect for what I needed it for, I was done. No more dresses. No more purchases. I was happy with my dress and I was tickled with the bargain that I had found.

But you know how the internet and Facebook work! If you even have a thought about something, it seems as if you are immediately inundated with ads for that item or something similar! I usually have no problem ignoring these ads. I am after all on a money saving mission, so buying these things is not something I want to do too often. But one day, a second dress caught my eye. Can I just say how adorable this dress is??

This dress was also $30 on Amazon. I honestly debated paying the thirty dollars for this dress, I find it that appealing. However, I knew that I didn't REALLY have a place to wear it. When it came down to it, I didn't want to spend another $30. I was super proud of myself for resisting! However, as I was drooling over the multitude of colors I came across the same dress in black with yellow trim. Oh yeah, absolutely adorable and then my eyes widened. THIS dress was only $12.99. That was indeed a frugal find!

Frugal Find turns into Gluttony

Yes, I purchased the dress for $12.99. It was an incredible deal and I knew that it wouldn't break the bank for me. HOWEVER, I honestly didn't need the dress and I immediately began to wonder if it was gluttonous for me to purchase the dress. That didn't stop me from ripping the package open when I got home. I couldn't wait to try it on. It was going to be perfect!

Only, it wasn't perfect. It was a little bit too tight.

I was disappointed and briefly thought about returning it to get my $12.99 back. Afterall, that would have been the frugal option right? But no, I decided to keep this dress. I am using it as a motivational/inspirational tool to keep me on track with my weight loss plan (Which I blog about here.) The added bonus is that when I CAN wear the dress, I will have a new dress to sport around.....one that I absolutely adore!

So you tell me, was this dress purchase frugal in nature or was it gluttony that spurred me to make this purchase???

A fun weekend

 We had a fabulous time this past weekend.  Ok, we always do!   But this weekend we went to visit some places and just got out and spent time together (ok, that's the normal for our weekends also) and we had a great time.  So what did we do???

Bird Store

On Saturday we were looking for something to do.  It was so super hot and the humidity was sky high.   We wimped out and decided to not go hiking or biking.  Instead we hopped in the car and headed to a bird store about an hour and a half away.  We were looking for one or two things for Kiwi.  I was looking for extra bowls for his food and Jason was looking for Hemp seed (still in the shells).   We set off ready for a grand adventure!

On the way down, we stopped at an REI and both made a few purchases but we were soon parking at the bird store.  We walked in and WOW....it was loud!  Much louder than I remembered.  This store has birds everywhere.  On this visit a Military Mccaw greeted us at the door with a cheery Hello. 

We visited with this pretty boy.....who also said Hello, but not until I was not looking as he apparently does not like women (he was owned by a woman for 22 years and apparently she didn't treat him well)

We saw cockatoos, green cheek conures, budgies, lovebirds, miniature mccaws, cockatoos and so many more!  I even got to pet the scarlet mccaw babies!  (soooo cute)

We did some shopping at this bird store that is the closest bird store to us (a store that actually specializes in birds).  Ironically enough, we got nothing that we went looking for.  But no worries, Kiwi still got some goodies!!!

Sunday Afternoon and more Heat

On Sunday we decided to brave the heat with a little bit of outdoor activity.  We drove up to Thurmont, MD and visited the Catoctin Furnace.   It was rather fitting after we hiked the Charcoal trail last week.   We had stumbled upon this furnace a few months back but the museum was closed at that point.  This time, the museum was open!  

The museum is small but it was quite informative and neat.  It is housed in a beautifully restored ironworkers house.  The Ironworks in this area was in operation from about the time of the Revolutionary War (this iron works supplied munitions to George Washington and his troops) and operated until 1903.

There are multiple buildings and ruins in the area to explore along with a few trails that are marked with waysides to give more history!

When we had finished our exploration of the Catoctin Iron Furnace and surrounding area, we headed a short distance up the road to the Catoctin Zoo.  We have an annual membership and find that it is a nice place to go for an easy walk...especially on hot days. 

And seriously......baby sloths!  

We had a fabulous time, even though it was so super hot and humid!  It got us out and moving and that is just what we needed!

Weigh in Report

 This weeks weigh in was not all that great.   Ok, maybe it wasn't all that horrible, but it was definitely disappointing!   All I'm going to say is that this weight loss thing is not for the faint at heart!

Weekly Weigh IN

I weighed in on Friday and I pretty much knew that it was going to be just an 'ok' weigh in. I was right.  It was a maintain. And don't get me wrong, I am tickled with a maintain.  But seriously, if I am doing the work and avoiding lots of sweets and limiting my food and whatnot, then by golly, I want to be losing weight!   

That is correct.  I didn't indulge and lose control over the week.  I didn't eat like a crazy loon.  I didn't skip my exercise and activity.  I didn't do any of that.  Instead, I continued to eat my limited caloric intake.  I continued to ride the exercise bike on a daily basis.  I walked after work.  I did everything I should have been doing!   And those pesky scales didn't move!  

The Weekend Fall Out

On Friday after my weigh in, I went to my mom's to spend the day with her.  It was a great day off of work and it is always good to spend time with mom.  BUT.....we went to  Olive Garden for Lunch. I got the soup and salad combo.  Yes, I had breadsticks and yes I had more than one bowl of soup.   I tried to counter act and negate my heavier lunch by eating mostly fruits and veggies for dinner....but on Saturday my weight went up.   All week long I saw the numbers on the scales and I just wanted to cry!  

Luckily, I never once gave up this last week.  I made my decisions and my plans and I did what I set out to do.  The scales may not show my results and I may be totally discouraged by the results but I am still here and I am still trucking along!

Reward Time

 It is time for a weight loss reward!  When I got serious about losing weight (again), I knew that I wanted to set up a reward system to reward my accomplishments.   I even know what the first reward was going to be.   I waited patiently (or not so patiently) until I had actually earned that reward.  Finally, the time has arrived, I have earned my reward. 

Rewarding yourself in a Weight Loss Journey

I am a firm believer in setting up a reward system during a weight loss journey.  Over the years of my journey, I have done this and it has been great for me. The first and most important reason that rewards are good for me is that it gives me a goal to work toward.  It is not contingent upon time.  It is strictly focused on my results.  It allows me to break down this seemingly huge amount of weight to lose into smaller more manageable sections.    For me, I chose to do that in 10 pound increments.  In the past, I have spent months losing 10 pounds but then the next 10 pounds seem to melt off overnight.  No matter, they all deserve a reward.   

Now with that said, I also decided to reward those extra big milestones also.  My general 10 pound rewards are smaller, but I go a bit more grandiose when I am celebrating a milestone.  What am I talking about when I say a milestone?  100 pounds lost.  50 pounds lost.  Weighing less than 300 pounds.  Weighing less than 200 pounds.  Your Goal weight.  Those big milestones in your weight loss journey.  Reward them!!!

There is another fabulous benefit for rewarding yourself for your weight loss efforts.  You will have either a tangible item or a fabulous memory that will serve as an anchor for you as you continue on your journey.  When I reached my goal weight the first time, years ago; I bought a nice camera for myself.  Every time I picked up that camera I knew that I had accomplished an amazing goal.  It reminded me of my efforts and helped constantly remind me of my habits and goals and journey.

Choosing Good rewards in a Weight Loss Journey

When I first started to lose weight I really struggled with setting up rewards.  My overweight mind constantly wanted to reward myself with a dinner out, an ice cream cone, a cake.  I really struggled with a reward system because all of my ideas were unhealthy and not encouraging a good healthy life.   I really struggled.   Eventually I settled upon a reward that I loved.    It wasn't food centered and it was something that I would have with me all the time.  Something that would constantly remind me of my journey and how far I had come.   I settled on a charm bracelet.    The idea worked out really well.  I bought a bracelet and each time I lost 10 pounds, I bought a new charm.  The charm was picked out to show something about the ten pounds.  One was a turtle because the ten pounds had taken so long to lose.  Another charm was a tennis shoe because I had started to run during that 10 pound period.  Each charm reminded me of that specific stage of the journey.   

Another important aspect is to base your planned rewards on something that is feasible for your budget.  I had grand plans for all sorts of rewards at one point in my journey.  But when I would get to that milestone, I didn't have the funds to attain the reward, so I would shelve it.  I was still losing but the reward system didn't work for me.  Plan rewards accordingly!

My newest Weight Loss Reward

The time has come.  When I started seriously losing again I was only 1.6 pounds away from the nice even number of 250. Yes, I was 251.6 pounds.  I knew I was going to be rewarding myself for every ten pounds, but I made a decision to make my first reward when I crossed below 240 pounds.  It took me about 9 weeks, but I finally reached that goal!   

My reward was picked out long before I got serious about losing weight again.  I saw this teeshirt online months ago and knew I wanted it.  But I had decided that it was going to be my first weight loss reward.  So I waited....and waited  and waited for myself to start getting serious and lose the weight!    I've been thinking about it for quite some time!  So without further ado.....here it is!  A tee shirt about my Green Cheek Conure. 

This teeshirt is perfect for me as Kiwi has been a bit nippy toward me.  He is getting better, but this shirt TOTALLY shows how he is with me.  (Jason doesn't get bit near as much as I do!)  I've been waiting for months to get it and it arrived on Monday.  I have washed it and I am SOO excited to wear my 10 pounds lost teeshirt!

Stay tuned.....I'm determined that there will be more 10 pound rewards earned!  I've got this!!!!!!

Of course I had to include a picture of Kiwi...the bird that inspired my reward!

Hiking in Catoctin Mountain Park

Hiking and biking outside in this weather is just miserable!   You see, I am sooooo ready for the heat of this summer to be over!   The older I get the less extreme I want the temperature to be!   I know, I complain in the summer because it’s too hot.  I complain in the winter because it’s too cold….or more correctly, I complain in the winter because of the infernal darkness!  I’m just not happy.  But this past weekend we didn’t let the heat of summer deter us from getting outside.  We decided to go hiking In the Catoctin Mountain Park. And I’m so glad that I did because I realized something very important! 

Long Break From Hiking

The weather was supposed to be a bit cooler (high 80’s as opposed to the 90’s) and we decided to go hiking!   After all, we will be going on vacation soon and whilst on vacation we will be hiking…a lot! We knew we had to get our hiking legs underneath us.   We wanted to get back out and be as ready for our vacation as possible and that means hiking as much as possible as we get closer to our trip.  This is especially important as we have been woefully lacking in hikes!

We have walked on the canal a lot…some long walks.  We have walked at the zoo.  We haven’t been just sitting on the couch. But a real hike…mountains and rocky terrain and all that turns a walk into a hike has not happened.   That fact was brought home to us when we pulled our our dirt encrusted hiking boots.  ‘Wow we were in some mud last time we went hiking’ I declared.  But neither of us could easily remember the occasion in which we ended up mud encrusted.   Shame on us!

Catoctin Mountain Park

We decided to head to Catoctin Mountain Park for our first hike after an indeterminate amount of time.  The Catoctin Mountain Park is part of the properties managed by the NPS and is chock full of beauty.  It is in the mountains so I knew to expect the hills and grades to ascend and descend but I also knew that the views would be a great reward.

We started out our hike at the Thurmond  Vista Parking lot. We chuckled as we thought about our run in with the secret service/park police during a recent visit when we were so enthralled with the wildlife that we totally forgot about our proximity to Camp David.  But this visit we clearly remembered our proximity and followed all ‘edicts’. 

The first trial we decided to traverse was the Charcoal Trail.  This is a half mile loop trail that is pretty scenery but shows how charcoal was generated.   The lessons are learned by historical markers and exhibits along the trail.   It was neat but didn’t take us long.  Soon we were back at the parking lot and ready to head to a longer trail.

We decided to hike to the Thurmond Vista.  The National Park Service had done a great job at Catoctin National Park in making it possible to hike most of the parks trails in a series of loops.  The Thurmond vista loop would be about 3 miles.  That sounded perfect for a first hike (in a long time).  Off we went.

It was about this time that it started to rain.  But no worries.  It was hot and a little rain could only be refreshing, right? 

It’s only a bit further, let’s hike further

After reaching the Thurmond Vista we came to the turn off for us to make the loop back to the parking lot.  The signage was very clear.  But it was also very clear that Wolf Rock was only 0.3 miles further.  My legs were feeling strong…we decided to check out Wolf Rock as a spur trail for our loop. 

We made it there no problem….and the signs from there indicated that Chimney rock was only 0.5 miles further!  Why yes!  Let’s!

It was so stinking hot!  The humidity was super high!  But we were both having so much fun!

It was while we were hiking back to the car that I realized….my legs were absolutely fine and in fact it had been ME that suggested adding the extra almost two miles do hike to Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock.  That is a huge turn around because in the last year or two I have dragged my feet about getting out and when I am out hiking all I can usually think about is getting the torture over with…and never would I willingly add more torture by suggesting adding more hiking onto our planned trip.  (The exception is if I am busy exploring…and buried in the excitement of that…such as our hikes on  vacation last year.)

I did hike using my trekking poles . (Amazon Link)  I know that they saved me a few times as my foot got caught on a rock causing me to stumble!  (Why do I stumble so much?). They also kept my fingers from swelling up like sausages so I was happy.   It’s all about doing what it takes to make my hiking experience favorable and fun!

We had a blast hiking in the Catoctin Mountain Park!  Sure it was hot and humid.  It even rained on us a few times.  But we were so happy to be back in the woods.  I was encouraged by the way my body handled the hike. My workouts through the past few months and my trekking poles made this hike painless and enjoyable!   We can’t wait to get out  and hike again!!!

First Friday Weigh In

Yeah yeah yeah, I know that this is posting on Monday and it is about my Friday weigh in.  But that is just how it’s going to be.  I will explain the change and everything today and I will also share my weigh in results!

No Stress Weigh In Day

I recently changed my official weigh in day back to Friday.  I had weighed in on Friday's before…but months ago, I had decided to change my weigh day to after the weekend in an effort to keep myself on the straight and narrow over the weekend.  Yes, my weekends are always the tough time for me!  In theory it would work!  I mean, it worked when I was on weight watchers and weighed in on Tuesday (which due to my whacky schedule was the first day of my work week).  But this time around it was working but only to an extent.  It was also filling me with anxiety and stress.  I do indulge a bit on the weekends (the typical rule is ONE sweet treat for the week and I indulge on a weekend). Plus, we eat out on the weekends….yup the kitchen is closed on the weekends!     So the stress came naturally.  Each time I ate my sweet treat I panicked about what it would do to my weight.  If I ate something that was a night higher carbs I stressed.  Out and about and drinking a bit less water on a weekend day….stressed and anxious about what that would mean for my weigh in.  

That is not living!  I want to be thin and healthy, there is no doubt about that. But I also want to live a happy life. If I’m stressed and anxious about every bite I eat, then that is not living!  There has to be a happy medium.  So back to Friday Weigh days.   I can have my tiny indulgence and I can eat at a restaurant where I may not have as much control.  If I slack a bit on water, It’s ok, as long as I pick the reigns back up on Monday.   There isn’t a ‘day of reckoning’ immediately following my rough days!  That said, I don’t want to play catch up all week long and have to lose what I gained over the weekend.  So I’m not allowing my weekends to be a free for all.  (Jason’s  birthday weekend was an anomaly and something special…so we won’t count that!)  

Stress free Posting

Changing my weigh in day back to Friday but continuing to post the results on Monday also helps me in actually being able to post and think about what I am saying and doing.  Work had been crazy recently.  It was difficult for me to actually weigh in on Monday morning and find time to post about it that same day.   Thus,  some of my delayed posts and missed posts over the last few months. With Friday weigh days, I have the time over the weekend to actually formulate my thoughts and post!  That is a plus also!!!  (Thanks for putting up with me during my less than stellar posting habits of late!)

Weigh In Time

So the moment we have all he waiting for.  How did I do on the scales?

I lost 3.0 pounds this week!  I am over the top happy!  That is a blessing that I was NOT expecting!

I am moving in the right direction!   I am still a bit behind in my quest to get to the weight that I was when I met Jason by our vacation, but not by much.  It is still attainable. The average I would need to lose each week would be 2.3 pounds.   Tough…but totally doable.  I’m still aiming for it (even though over two poutines a week is not sustainable…I do have a fair amount of weight to lose so it is possible).   But even though I am aiming for it, I am NOT going to be upset if I don’t make it.  Not at all.  If I get close….that’s a win.   The fact that since I started my 12 Week Challenge I have lost about 13 pounds is a win!  If I am losing (or have lost) then it is a win!

I am over the top happy with my progress and I can’t wait to see where this new improved weight loss journey takes me!  I am in the process of obtaining my next reward.  I am rewarding myself every 10 pounds loss…and this three pounds took me over that 10 mark and into a new weight decade.  I am also in the home stretch to get my 2021 miles in the year 2021 completed.  So stay tuned!

A Wash

This last week was a wash…kinda!

Last week was fabulous in some ways!  Jason and I were both off work on Thursday and Friday (happy birthday to Jason).   That was absolutely wonderful!   We spent Thursday running some errands and getting some things done.  It was a productive day…maybe not exciting but necessary in life.   I had my normal weekly sweet treat that evening. One a week…that’s the plan….right?

On Friday we packed up the bird and ourselves and headed out for a short trip away.  (Mertz the cat stayed home by herself).  We dropped Kiwi off at Jason’s parents who agreed to bird sit and we headed onward. We ended up in Harrisburg, pa.   We visited the National Covil War museum, roamed around downtown a bit and also visited the Fort Hunter Mansion and park.  On Friday I caved and got some cookies and indulged at the hotel.   Ok, two nights of sweet treats isn’t too bad right?

As we headed to pick up Kiwi (the bird) we decided to stop to look at a grocery store  and that store that has donuts that Jason loves. (Ok Jason decided) They didn’t have the donuts…yay!  But the did have this apple caramel cake that he loves.  Uhhh ohh!  Yes we bought some and I had cake on Saturday night.  Yes yes yes..I did!

I actually felt sweet overload after the cake and vowed that Sunday would be different!   And you know what?  It was!  I did much better on Sunday.  No sweet treat for me!  We visited the local zoo on Sunday just to get out and move a bit.  We were laughing at a Scarlett macaw who was very interested in us and crept down the perch to as close as it could get to us.  Yup we offered our arms for it to jump to us. He didn’t take the offer!

I did NOT track a single item during the four day weekend!  Not a darn single thing!  I didn’t eat all that differently than normal…except for the sweet treats….but I can’t be sure of the calories because I didn’t track.  And honestly, I don’t feel one iota of guilt!

Monday rolled around and I started to track my food.  Right back on the bandwagon!

So what is my weight doing?  On Friday…my official weigh in day i weight in before we left for our mini trip.  (I have switched it back to Friday from mondays…I’ll talk about that some day soon)  my weight was actually doing week.  I was about a half pound down!   But Monday morning…I was up by about two pounds!  Luckily, by Tuesday my weight had dropped again….and even a bit lower than my Friday weigh in!  Whew…now just to keep that momentum going!!!

I’m ok with everything and with having a wash…a maintain (or just a wee tiny loss)  we had a great time celebrating Jason’s birthday and spending time together.  Memories were made and that is called living life to the fullest.  I made some decisions but vowed to make those decisions temporary and to get back to the grind as soon as our weekend was over.  And that is just what I did!!  I call that a success!

Frugal Friday - The Misto

 I find myself looking more toward the future lately.  I find myself looking at a future where I actually get out and FINALLY see the world.  I want to see so many places.  I want to visit so many national parks.  I want to experience what this world has to offer!    I also want to buy a house.  I want to put aside money for my retirement.  In essence, I have dreams.   We have been talking about ways to reach these goals and dreams.  Some of it requires planning.  Some of it requires changes in our lives.  Some of it is just simply being frugal and wise with our purchases.  So I thought it might be fun to do a Frugal Friday thing...or maybe I should call it a Financial Friday.....talking about ways to save money, ways to be frugal and ways to get closer to some of our goals....many of which are tied with finances!

I bought a Misto Non aerosol Kitchen Spray

Today I am going to share my new purchase.....a Misto! (amazon link)  The Misto is a replacement for the traditional aerosol sprays that are frequently used for their non-stick abilities in the kitchen.  Yes,  I have gone back to using a non-aerosol non-stick spray in my kitchen!   

The misto is a bottle that can be filled with an olive oil (or any oil that you chose) of your choice.  The device uses a pump that is built into the cap to pressurize the bottle. The pressure in the bottle will enable the olive oil to be dispensed as a spray through the standard spray nozzle.  It works like a charm.   

Now, let me be honest here.  (sigh)  Aerosol sprays are bad for birds and this purchase was initially planned to safeguard the health of our bird.   And of course, if it is bad for the birds lungs, it can't be good for ours....so I guess it's helping us too!   But once I made this purchase, I started to think about the financial ramifications. 

The Benefits of a Misto

There are so many benefits to using a Misto.  

**I have personally been buying a non-organic aerosol spray for my kitchen.  But with the Misto, I am able to fill the bottle with organic olive oil.   One more organic product is always a good thing!   

** This is a healthier option for my bird.  Birds have more fragile and delicate lungs.  Aerosol sprays are a big no no.  I want to keep my bird healthy because...well he is part of the family!  (Plus, vet bills are NOT cheap!)

**If aerosol spray is bad for the bird, it can NOT be good for me!  So eliminating this will be another step to a healthier life!

**This helps our environment!   It will reduce the non-recyclable waste going into the landfills.  It reduces the harmful pollutants that are going into our air.  It is just a good choice!

**Financially this is a cheaper option.  The cost per ounce of NON organic cooking spray in an aerosol can is $0.42.  The cost per ounce for the organic olive oil that I typically use is $0.30.  That makes it a cheaper option!  (I was using the prices from Aldi)

This purchase is not one that will make me rich.  (I wish I could find one that did!)  But using this Misto is a simple wise choice.  It benefits my health, my environment, my pocketbook and my bird!   It's a win win situation!  

  

Weigh In Time // Week 6 of the 12 Week Challenge

I have managed to make it 6 weeks in the 12 week challenge that I set for myself.  6 weeks in!   I’ve not given up or wavered in my dedication for the last six weeks.   It hasn’t been easy.    I haven’t always been successful.  But I’m still here…showing up for weight loss each and every day.

My weight has been fluctuating crazily the last week or so.   Last week, my Weight was up.  I was not at all happy.  But I wasn’t deferred.  I have goals and plans. And I want to reach those goals.  I am worth it!  I was going ho to move into the new week and smash it on the scales.

The week was actually a whole lot more difficult than I expected.   I weighed in 2 pounds heavier last Monday for my official weigh in day.   By Tuesday that number was up by two more stinkin’ pounds!   Yes…I’m two days I gained 4 pounds.   My calories were NOT that far out of control….I was eating closer to 1500 calories.   It was totally disheartening and then I had that one day where I just gave in and ate my stress about the scales.  (Yes, i bought into the self perpetuating cycle of eat..gain…eat to feel better!)   Luckily as I wrote last week, when I wrote about my NSV I was able to gather those reigns.  And the weight started to drop.   By Sunday, the day before my official weigh in I had dropped all found pounds and even 1.5 pounds extra! I was super excited!   But on Monday morning when I stepped on the scale for my official weigh in I was back up.   It showed a loss of 2.2…exactly what I had gained last week.  So I recouped that.   That is a relief.  But where did my extra loss go??!

So, for my 12 week challenge…I made a graph.  The green line shows the projected weight I have to lose to meet my goal.  The black (the more jagged line) is my actual weight loss and I chart my loss twice a week.    You can see that I am now ‘behind’ on where I need to be in my weight loss for this challenge.  Not far.  Literally only 1-2 pounds.  This goal is still doable!  It is actually very doable because the goal weight is by my vacation and the 12 week challenge and graph ends a week or so before vacation so there is a bit of wiggle room there.  But not much!   Not matter…I am already 9 pounds lower than I was 6 weeks ago at the beginning of this challenge.  I’m sure I will be even lower by vacation…and that is the win!  (Although I really want to be that lower weight!!)

The scales are frustrating for sure!   But I’m not giving up.  I’m choosing healthy and nutritious foods and that will eventually show up on the scales.  I’m loving healthy.

I sadly expect this weigh in week to be more difficult.  The week should be splendid in other ways though!   Jason and I are both off work on Thursday and Friday.  That’s right, it’s a four day weekend which will be glorious!  But, weekends are more a struggle for me with my weight loss efforts. As our long weekend approaches I am sitting back and giving myself pep talks about how I can easily manage this…I just have to stay focused!  I can do it!

Weekend Fun

We had a good weekend.  It wasn’t chock full of exercise and activity, but it was a fun weekend regardless! 

This past weekend was a grocery weekend.  When we get groceries we swing into at least stores. (Sometimes more if we need to hit targeted the pet store.). This takes quite a chunk of our day.  But that’s ok, it is part of life.  By the time we finished all of our shopping and general errands we didn’t have a whole lot of time left in the day for fun and excitement.  So we headed to our little ‘go to’ place.   

Gambrill Mill

Gambrill mill is an area within the confines of the Monocacy National Civil War Battlefield.  This area of the park is relatively small but it is just a neat place to visit.  It is our easy and quick place to go to reconnect with nature.

The main (only???) trail at this location is only a mile or so.  It starts on a boardwalk at the corner of the parking lot.  The boardwalk was just redone and is in great shape.  On the boardwalk you will meander by and over a stream that leads to the Monocacy River. It also will walk you by the site of an old shed that is in ruins.  

Eventually the boardwalk will deposit you at an access to the Monocacy River.  There is an overlook in case you don’t want to walk down to the river bank. (Overlook is a nice term…you are maybe 10 feet above the level of the water.)  In the summer this area is full of people swimming, picnics, canoes, rafters and so much aquatic activity.   

The trail now meanders around the edge of the field and follows another stream that flows into the Monocacy River.    The water in this stream is so clear. It is the perfect place to wade!

As you make the circle back to the parking lot you will see the Gambrill Mansion (used as offices) and the old mill that sits alongside the pond.  I have never seen either building open and available to the public.  But irregardless…it is a neat place to get out in nature if you just have a short period of time!

On Sunday we took a lazy day.   Seriously, we lounged around all morning.  We watched tv, played around online and I messed around with my cameras a bit.  It was a lazy morning!

During the afternoon we spent some time trying to get Kiwi, our Green. Geek Conure acclimated to traveling.   Yes we took him for an outing.   Some birds get car sick.  Apparently Kiwi get sick…but it’s definitely not from motion sickness…he has panic attacks!  I kid you not…this bird gets sick before we even turn on the car! Each outing he gets a bit better…so we hope that by vacation time he will be good with travel because he is going on vacation with us.  (Mertz is staying at home…she is more self sufficient and will only need someone to come check on her one or two times.)

Before we knew it, our weekend was over!   They go so fast!  The only consolation to the drama of going back to work?    We only have a three day week!   Both Jason and I are off on Thursday and Friday!  Yay!!!!!!

Frugal Friday and a NSV

 Hellooooooo Friday!   Good friend, old buddy!   I’ve been waiting a long time for you!  It has felt like a month of Sunday’s since the last weekend…it’s been a trip and a half!  This week I had a weight loss struggle mid week and along with that a wee little NSV.  And since it’s Friday I decided to share my own personal frugal Friday Find!  (Come on now…how could I not since it is a such a fun alliteration!)

Weigh Loss Struggle 

After my not so stellar weekend and weigh in on Monday, I was sure that I would be rocking out this week with my weight loss.  The determination was high!  I was up against the wall.  I have a goal that I want to reach by the beginning of October (vacation).  The goal requires me to lose two pounds a week.  Not losing during this last weigh in was putting me behind schedule and I couldn’t have that!  Motivation was running high!   Determination seemed to fail me around Wednesday!

I had grand plans on Wednesday!  I carefully entered my planned food intake for the day.  I looked at the numbers on MyFitnessPal and I was right in lines.  My calories were right around 1300.  I was golden!  (I am Mfclingan on MyFitnessPal if you want to join me.)  But then lunchtime came. The plan had been to eat some corn (leftover corn that I had cut off the cobs on Monday night) and some cherries.   I was good with that plan. Until I walked into the kitchen!  The first thing I saw was the potato roll that was leftover from the weekend.  Bread!  I love bread! I had been successfully ignoring that potato hamburger roll all week.  I don’t rightly know why I hadn’t thrown it away.  I had thrown away the extra pretzel hamburger bun…but for some reason I left the potato bun. Stupid move!  Really stupid move.  Because on Wednesday I  caved.  Maybe it was the few slices of deli ham that was leftover from making chicken cordon blue the night before that threw me over the edge…but whatever the reason, I grabbed that hamburger bun and that ham and I made myself a ham and cheese sandwich.  (Two slices of cheese and Mayo were also added!)  I wish I could say that it ended there.  But it didn’t.  Chips.  I can usually ignore Jason’s chips.  But with a ham and cheese sandwich…I lost the battle!  Yes, I had chips with my sandwich.  Oh… I still ate the corn and the cherries.  I wasn’t doneI I thoroughly enjoyed the candy that I keep on my desk.  It is my one piece 20 calorie treat in the afternoons. I can usually do fine with it and keep it at that one piece little pick me up treat.    Except on Wednesday.  On Wednesday, it wasn’t one piece.  I’m sure it was closer to 10 pieces.  Ooops!  My calorie budget was shot for the day and I knew it!

A Wee weight loss NSV

Wednesday night rolled around and with it came dinner time.   I had planned and put together a pan of Baked Ziti ln Tuesday night so dinner prep was literally making a vegetable (baked zucchini Parmesan) and throwing some garlic bread in the oven.   I pulled the garlic bread out of the freezer and my mind began do do battle!  I had planned on one piece of garlic bread.  However I WANTED two pieces!   Why not just do it…my calorie budget was were already blown for the day.  Why not just indulge and enjoy.  ‘I can always get back on track tomorrow right?’  Yes, I actually said that to myself. But then I immediately corrected myself and said ‘no…if you eat the bread you will dig yourself deeper into a hole and tomorrow you will just be mad at yourself’    

 I put that extra piece of bread away.  I stuck to the original plan.    And that my friends is my NSV!   Sure my calories were way over for the day but I kept it from being worse.  I didn’t cave to that mentality of “well I already messed up may as well enjoy it.’   That mentality is what has caused my weight gain. It is what keeps me from weight loss.  I stopped it in its tracks on Wednesday it is a victory!  (And that victory set me up for success on Thursday!)

Frugal Friday 

I love a good deal!  I call myself cheap…Jason reminds me that most of the time it is me being frugal!  (Although I can sometimes be a bit cheap too!)   My frugal side came through recently when I was looking at dresses on Amazon.  Now let me say that Jason loves to see me in a dress.  (Something that is even more rare now that I work from home… can I say comfy clothes all week?)   Add to that is the fact that I also love vintage clothes!  I love the style of dresses from the 50’s.   Is it any surprise that I was looking at 50’s inspired dresses?  

And then I saw it!  I saw a polka dot dress that I fell in love with!!  (Amazon link).  Now, I’ve looked at dresses at the mall and random stores. $60 seems to be a decent  figure for the cost of  most dresses. (Low ball figure)and that is why I don’t buy them.  I struggle buying a dress that I will be spending a fair amount of money for but may not wear too often!  I was expecting this dress to be about the same price!  But no!  It was only $30!  Really???  I just had to have it!!!  I ordered it and anxiously awaited its arrival!

It came and I fell even more in love with this dress!  This dress was only $30 and it was a true bargain!   It was my frugal Friday Find!!!  Now I just need to find a place to wear a dress!   Maybe it’s time to spice up my life and get out of my comfy scrubby clothes!!!!

if you want to see a video of the dress and see me wear it,  (and some other bargains) you can check out my video on YouTube at this link.  

I’m heading into the weekend after this week where   I struggled.  But my mental decision to not indulge in destructive behaviors was a huge victory and has rekindled the determination to make this week’s weigh in fantastic!!!!  I’m on a roll.   And, seriously…how cute is that dress?????

Terribly Lax

 I have been terribly lax on this blog!  I have not been posting regularly and I will be surprised if anyone even reads this....But I'm gonna post anyway.  I am going to post because it is good for me to have a record of my journey.  I am going to post because I need the accountability on my weight loss journey.  SO I'm just gonna do it!

Week five of my 12 week challenge is in the books.  I actually didn't do to bad with the week.  The first few days my calories were right in check!  Then I headed into a long weekend and things got a bit more difficult with my food choices. I never went totally off the rails!  My highest calorie day was right around 1500-1600 calories.  BUT....I know for my body, that is not a lose zone.   I maintained the first part of the weekend and then Monday morning for my official weigh in I showed a gain!  grrrr

I had a doctors appointment last week.  It was just my annual physical.  But I was nervous.  I had a few things that were bothersome.  But they all actually turned out to be 'nothing to be concerned with at the moment.

    * A spot on my face - the spot is just a skin/aging spot. Nothing to be concerned with.  If it starts to bleed or to grow then call them back (or visit a dermatologist).

    * The weird cough and throat clearing I have after I eat (just once or twice each meal) - This is acid reflux.  There is medicine but if it's just a simple cough or throat clear and not bothering me, no need to add medicine at this time.  (Losing weight should help this also!)

    *  My fingers swell during hikes.   This is nothing to be concerned about as long as they are only swelling during hikes and not at random times throughout the day.  (Once again Losing weight should help)

   *  The spot on my lung that was found during my bike accident from last year.   She confirmed that it was just a spot from a previous infection.

   *  She was fully in agreement with my projected 1200-1300 calorie plan and my exercise plan.   Quite happy with it in fact.

    *My bloodwork all came back great.  

So I had a good doctors visit!

We had a nice weekend.  I spent Friday with my mom.  Saturday Jason and I went for a bike ride and did our errands.  On Sunday, we worked on trying to get Kiwi used to traveling.  Yes, we are working to get Kiwi used to care rides (he doesn't exactly like them)!   Overall, we had a good weekend.

SO yes, my weight was up on Monday.  I know that I didn't drink enough water on Sunday...so I'm hoping the weight will correct itself quickly!  But if it doesn't, I know that I am on the right path to health!!!!

Week 4 of the 12 week Challenge

 I am trucking along on this 12 week challenge.   This week could have been a total disaster.  I gained last week and that is typically a precursor to disaster!  But this week I said, I'm not going to let it derail me.

Yes, typically after a bad weigh in my mind starts screaming at me and telling me to give up, it's not working!   I mean, that is the natural inclination isn't it?   I can't be the only one can I?   But yes, when the going gets tough, the weight loss plans get going.    But after last weeks weigh in I sat back and I talked to myself long and hard.  I KNOW that this 12 week challenge that I am doing is a good one.  I know that this 12 week challenge is worth the effort.  I know that my motivation is well deserved and worthwhile.  I know that what I am doing is RIGHT for my body.

So, when I showed a gain, I didn't stumble even one bit.  I just moved on and kept going in the right direction.  I didn't let that number on the scale derail me.  I didn't let it cause me to go into a tailspin of cookies, cake and potato chips.  I continued to count my calories.  I continued to exercise.  I continued to take the steps to fuel my body with nutritious food.   I stayed the course because through trial and error I KNOW what my body needs and what it responds to and I knew that what I was doing was/is the right thing for me.

But did it work?    Yes, this week I lost 2.4 pounds!   YAY!!!!

I stayed the course and I had success!!!   This week.....more staying the course!

Week Three of this 12 Week Challenge

 This week wasn't as successful as my first two weeks.   I can honestly say that I still worked the plan, but it just wasn't meant to be.  That's ok too.

I started my weight week gung ho.  I was coming off of two highly successful weeks of weight loss.  I was sure that I could carry on with the success.   I mean, how hard could it be?   It was hard....on Monday I went to eat lunch and opened the refrigerator.  What to eat, what to eat.    I didn't see many options for my normal vegetable lunch so I grabbed......a piece of leftover pizza.   First of all, That was more calories than I wanted to spend on a single item for my lunch.  But secondly, it wasn't exactly choke full of nutrition.   Two strikes against that lunch.

I was able to watch my calories the rest of the day and I didn't blow my calorie count for the day.  But, that day I was a bit higher than normal.  I wasn't worried though.   Friday I went to lunch with my mom and brother and ate more than usual for lunch....and then had my normal Friday night dinner.  So my calories were a bit higher.   Two higher caloric days.  And when I say higher....I mean that I ate 1500-1600 calories TOTAL.  Not 1500 more than my planned caloric goal.  I was only 300 calories over my goal...for two days.  I continued on with my exercise plan.  I did really well.  I'm right on track with my miles.  We even got in a nice long ride on the canal on our bikes!  I'm doing great with my exercises.   Spot on!  Yet.....

This week I showed a gain of 0.6 pounds.  

I won't lie and say that I'm not bothered by it.  It is infuriating.  But I know without a shadow of a doubt that I can say that my calories and my accounting of my food and exercise was and is spot on. I didn't lie to myself.  I didn't 'forget' to count the bites licks and tastes.   I counted everything.  I did what I needed to do.  The scales just weren't with me this time.  And you know what, that's ok!  

I am here to be healthy.  Healthy is what I am doing.   The weight will fall away....sooner or later.  Hopefully sooner!

12 Week Challenge Weigh In Two

Here we are on another Monday morning.   The weekend is gone.  (Boo). The workweek is starting.(Say it ain’t so). My weekly weigh in has come and now it is time to share my week two results.

After last weeks successful results, I headed into this week strong and determined to rock out this week also and to have another nice weigh in.  I knew I could do it. I had a single minded focused.  I was determined!

I had it in the bag, right?    However, early on in the week (like for the first 4 or 5 days) I started to struggle. I surprisingly did not struggle with my motivation, I stayed firm and strong in my convictions and actions. But those numbers on the scale just fluctuated wildly like a pendulum swinging out of control.  It was frustrating and was infuriating.  I didn’t let it get to me!  I stayed strong and I did not deviate from my plan.  I continued on with my plan with little or no deviation.

The weekend came.  I continued onward.  I was so tempted to give up my weekly sweet treat.  But I wanted it and I know (from past experience) that giving it up totally is not a good idea for me because I will eventually cave and it will be in the most spectacular way…..and not in a good way for my weight loss efforts.  I carried on exactly as normal.  I tried to keep my calories low but actually had two days where my calories were up by about 200-300 calories. My weekend weights were looking slightly better, but I was waiting for the shoe to drop. I honestly went to bed on Sunday night and told my self that a gain was expected and that it was ok.  As I was getting ready for bed that night I actually looked on the mirror and said, ‘It’s ok if you gain.  You are eating healthy foods, you are eating in a calorie zone that will have to bring weight loss eventually and you are being physically active so your body is toning up and getting stronger.  Even if the scales don’t show the results, you are on the right path!”

I didn’t want to step on the scales this morning. But I did.  I lost exactly 3 pounds!  I was shocked.  The first time I stepped on the scales it showed me 4 pounds actually.  But, I had been standing on the scales weirdly (more forward than normal) so I weighed myself a second time.  And that showed the pound higher.   I weighed a third time and vowed that I would take whichever weight I received twice (or take the average if I got three different weights)   But I got the exact three pound loss two times in a row (when I was standing on the scales correctly).  Sold!   Sure I would have liked the 4 pounds more, but the three pounds is the honest weight.  (And if the lower weight was actually true, then I just gave myself a head start for next week).  And three pounds is spectacular!!!

This next week is starting and I’m motivated and determined yet again!  Two weeks of really nice success are behind me and I’m ready to make it three.  I’m not changing anything in my plan.  I’m simply planning on continuing the 12 week workout.  Is it simply the calorie count that I am consistently eating?  Or the exercise?  I don’t care what it is…it is just working!  So I’m continuing!!!!

The Towel Gap

I am a daily weigh person.  It drives me crazy if I don’t know what I weigh.  I panic.   But sometimes daily weigh ins throws me for a loop when the scales don’t do what I expect.   And when that happens I have to remember to shift my focus!

I started this 12 week challenge and I am determined to see it through.  I’m determined to lose weight and work on my fitness levels.  I’m just plain and simple determined.  The plan is simple…a set or two of basic exercises (lunges, squats, push ups, sit ups, etc)….cardio including interval training, calorie restriction and water consumption.   Pretty simple it seems but the potential for great results is astronomical!    Last week was my first week and I did absolutely fabulous!   I lost almost 4 pounds!  (You can read about that here.)  I was on fire and I headed into my new week confident that I would smash this week also.  (I was realistic and didn’t expect 4 pounds!)

Sadly, the scales have not been doing what I wanted.  My weigh in day is Monday for this challenge.  On Tuesday I was down by one more pound.   On Wednesday I was right back where I was on Monday and the numbers just aren’t dropping.  Or rather, they are dropping but soooo slowly.     I was .4 down from Monday’s weight today (Friday).  

It’s disgusting!  It’s disheartening.  I’m doing the exact same thing that I did last week this week! Water?  Check!  Calories?  Check!  Exercise and Cardio?  Check check!   I’ve done it all!  And it’s been spot on!!   But this week I’m not having the same success!   

I’m telling you…it’s disheartening!   In the past I would waver a bit in my resolve, since it’s not working.  But not this time.  I have vowed to hold steady.  Certainly the scales will eventually be kind and show my efforts!

It wasn’t until I was stepping out of the shower this morning when I realized that in just two weeks I could count a huge non scale victory.    In recent months I have gotten out of the shower and dried off.  I have then wrapped the towel around my body.  And I tug and pull because the towel doesn’t quite meet….yes, I suffered from the towel gap syndrome.    But in the last day or two, the towel gap has not been quite so bad…mostly gone.   Now don’t get my wrong, the towel isn’t wrapping around me with lots of room to spare.  But….the ends are actually meeting and there is no skin showing in that dreaded towel gap.  

Can you lose that many inches so quickly?   Judging from the towel gap I’d say yes, and 1-2 inches!   I am notoriously horrible about measuring myself…so I don’t know for sure.  But I would rather have the non scale victory anyway!

So while the scales may not be showing me my results this week…my body is telling me that I’m doing good!  It’s time to keep pushing forward in spite of the scale results!!!

12 Week Challenge / Weigh In Week One

It is finally here!   I can finally post a positive weigh in report!  I feel like it’s been forever since I posted something positive in regards to my weight loss!  And yes, I guess it had been a crazy long time, but today is the day!!!

A week ago I started a 12 Week Challenge.  It is the most simple of plans.  Healthy eating within a calorie goal, cardio that includes interval training, and simple exercise moves (lunges, sit ups, push ups, etc) for some strength training, and healthy amounts of water.  Really it’s that simple.  

I started last Monday.   And immediately I realized that  those ‘simple exercises’ were not quite as simple as I had thought!  They were downright difficult for me because I had let my fitness levels drop so far.  But I didn’t let it deter me.   Each day I pushed myself to compete the exercises.  And it wasn’t easy.  Mentally I didn’t look forward to it because I knew it was going to be a muscle quivering and body ache inducing time.  But I didn’t let up!  I pushed through.   My push ups are modified and can probably be barely construed as a push up…but I  see improvement even within the first week.   My jumping jacks…my knees told me in no uncertain terms that right now it’s not a good thing…so they are modified also.  But I’m out there doing it!  Each day…no other option but to just do it.  Even yesterday…a day off of work I did the work.  My intervals…my exercises and even my miles for the 2021 challenge.  Done!

But weight is lost in the kitchen and not just the gym…so what about my food?  My food was on point!  One day on the weekend I splurged with a donut…but I eat so good the rest of the day that my calories were in check.   And a second day I did go up to about 1500 calories…which when I eat in that caloric range consistently is NOT in lose zone for me. That was a calculated ‘risk’ and planned.  But overall I did great with my food.  I tracked my food before I ate it.  I knew my plan and when the calories were gone, I stopped eating.

So what happened with my weight?   Well I alluded gto the fact that this was a positive post…so yes , I lost.  But the question is this, how much did I lose?     I lost 3.8 pounds!   3.8!  I haven’t lost that much in years!  In the last umpteen years I have been happy with the half pound, or 1 pound losses.  This past week I blew that out of the water.  I nailed a 3.8 pound loss in one week!  

I know that I won’t continue to lose nearly 4 pounds a week.  I may lose that for a week or two, but I fully expect it to settle down and then I’m hoping and planning to lose 2 pounds a week. I am near 250 pounds right now, so that will make weight loss a bit more speedy for a time. As I lose it will go slower but that’s ok. I expect it and I’m ready for it!  But for now…I’ll take a four pound week…and if I repeat it, I would be tickled.  But that said , I’ll be just as happy with a loss of three pounds, or two pounds…or even one pound.  As long as I am heading down on the scales!  I am on my way!!!

Last week I shared my daily banana with Kiwi.  This week I will be sharing kiwi and cherries (pit removed as it is poisonous for birds) with my bird!

Fitness Levels

There was a time that I was in super fit!  Sure I was still overweight but I was a machine!  I have deluded myself into thinking that I am still there!  Boy was I wrong!

Being Fit

6 years ago I was in super fit!  I was about 30 (give or take) pounds above my goal weight but that didn’t stop me!  I was doing Zumba, sometimes up to five or six hour long classes  a week.  I was running anywhere between fifteen to twenty miles a week.   I hiked….a lot!   I was active and felt amazing!  There was one time where Jason and I were talking about doing planks and I dropped to the floor and did a plank…and held it didn’t a few minutes with no issue.   The same thing with lunges…I could knock out scads of them without breaking a sweat. I am telling you, I was in shape!   

I called myself the fittest fat woman in a joking manner. But I didn’t realize how true that was!   And I didn’t put a value on it.  I didn’t protect that status.  I didn’t realize it until just recently when I tried to do my new fitness routine just how badly I have fallen!

The Fitness Awakening

I started my 12 week plan a few days ago. (You can read about it here.). I dove right into the strength training.   I was even cocky!   Boy was I in for a rude awakening!

Day one rolled around and I eagerly started my basic strength training moves.   I scoffed a bit at the ease that this was going to be.  20 squats?   Child’s play!   15 seconds to hold a plank, I could do that blindfolded with my hands tied around my back (figuratively speaking).   I had this in the bag!   I was actually feeling proud and cocky.  I vowed that I would be doing multiple sets within a week if not that first week because I wanted to give myself a great strength training workout!   It all came crashing down around me, and it didn’t take long!

That first day, I could barely make it those 15 seconds for that plank. (Today I’m scheduled for 40 seconds…dear heavens help me!)  Crunches, lunges,  jumping jacks, butt kicks , push-ups and wall sits.  It just spiraled out of control!  One set and I was panting and glad to be done!   Yikes what happened to my fitness?

What happened?  I didn’t value it and it slipped from my grasp!   I lost my fitness level.  I was so disheartened! But,  I didn’t let my revelation drive me away!   I did my ‘simple’ strength routine the next day too. (Although I now knew that it was not simple!)  And that my friends is when the abs started to scream!   Oh yes.  My abs are so sore!    But I’m weirdly proud of that.  You see, sore abs are the first step to bringing back my fitness levels.

Fitness Going Forward

I am not letting up.   I will be doing my strength training routine today also.  I am scheduled and plan for  5 days a week.  And let me tell you, I’ll be so ready for my two rest days over the weekend!   I am only doing one set of my exercises at the moment.   I know I was bold and vowed to do two sets to start and then up it as the twelve weeks progressed.  But one set is enough to do me in right now!  I admittedly looked at my schedule for today and groaned when I saw the reps that I need to do for my crunches…and the seconds for my plank.  Yikes!  These muscle aches aren’t going away anytime soon!   But it will all be worth it in the end!   I will settle for the title of fittest fat person!  But this time I’m really focusing on my eating also…because I plan on being a fit thin person!!!

12 week plan

Here we are…it’s Monday and I’m not exactly raring to go, but I’m ready to get started.   Yes…I have totally conflicting emotions this morning!  On one hand I’m ready and on the other hand…NOOOOOO!!!

In case you hadn’t guessed. I am writing this on a Monday morning!   So I think it may be totally obvious as to why I’m not raring to go!  Yes, the weekend is over, and I’m not feeling the start of this week….AT ALL!   But oh well, the rent needs paid and the pets need food!

So if it’s a Monday, why am I ready to get rolling?  Well, I have a plan and I’m ready to get started.   What plan doth I speak of?  Why, my 12 week get healthy plan of course!!!  I know, I know, I know!   I have written about so many plans and so many starts!  But we shall see.  I’m motivated!

The plan is a 12 week plan.  I chose 12 weeks simply because I had been looking at purchasing a  12 week exercise/get fit plan.  I kept hesitating though about spending the $100. I wasn’t sure the plan was for me.  It was a cross training plan for mountain biking, so it did hold some interest. But….well, I haven’t exactly been a mountain biker of late!  Sure, maybe the program would have pushed me back in that direction, but doesn’t that sound like a little bit of a stretch?  

So I hesitated.  But I kept going back to the 12 week thing. I started to think about doing my own thing…but it was all thoughts and no action.  That is until I was in the shower on Sunday morning.  I was thinking about how much I can’t wait until vacation. We have time planned at the beginning of October and we had started to talk about finalizing our plans.  And of course we will be active with biking and hiking on vacation (at least that’s the plan)  so I  was thinking about losing weight  and working on my fitness before vacation.  So I was in the shower thinking about that and then I realized that vacation was 14 weeks away!  Really?  That would allow me the perfect opportunity to slip in a 12 week program into that time slot before vacation!   How perfect!

I did some research and found a very basic plan that I tweaked to make it my own.  I created spreadsheets and documents to track my progress.  And decided to start on Monday morning.   It’s Monday morning and I’m ready!!

This  plan is very simple.

1.  Strength training (there are about 10 different strength training moves…lunges, crunches, planks, etc)  to do 5 days a week.  The amount that I do each day changes daily.  Some days I may only do 10 reps/seconds of something but the next day I might do 60.   The reps and actual exercises are what I found online at multiple sites..a preset plan.

2. Calories calories calories!   I KNOW where my calories need to be for me to lose weight.  That is where I need to eat…no if’s ands or buts!  1200-1300.  That’s it.  It’s a budget.  When I reach that number I’m out of calories.  This is a budget and there is no credit extended!  One higher day is ok.  One dessert a week is ok.  ONE!  

3.  Cardio-  I get my cardio through my exercise bike already.  But I will be incorporating more interval training during it to up the intensity.  5 days a week.  Not just when we I feel it.   I will build up my intervals in length and intensity as the 12 weeks progress.

4. Water- 64 ounces.  It just has to be so.  It’s healthy and honestly should be non negotiable!

5.  I will still strive for my 6 miles a day for the 2021 challenge. This challenge is still going strong and I am not giving it up!  6 miles a day will keep me on target to be done with my miles by the end of the year (with time to spare)   I am good with that.  But if I am honest with myself, I would admit that I would LOVE to be able to say that I am done by vacation!  I could then wear my 2021 challenge tee shirt with pride because I would have earned it.  And since we are vacationing in October it COULD be cool.   Ok, last year’s vacation was perfect temps.  Comfortable in teeshirts and not sweating crazy!  The year before that was terribly hot and I ended up with Sun poisoning.   The year before that?  We wore Long pants and long sleeve sheets/hoodies!  Each year our vacation was at the same time…the first week of October!  So the weather is totally a guesstimate!

So there you have my plans for this 12 week challenge!   Pretty simple right?   I am motivated because I feel miserable at my current weight.  I ache and hurt!  I know that getting off some pounds will make a huge difference!!!  So here we go!  Let’s see how much I can get off in 12 (14 before vacation) weeks!!!!

Weekend Fun

We had a great weekend. On Saturday we ran our errands (groceries and whatnot).  That took up a huge part of the day!  But the fun part was that we celebrated Mertz’s 12th birthday!

On Sunday it was so stink in’ hot!  But we braved it and went to the zoo.   We didn’t stay long, but we enjoyed the time.  We left the zoo hot and sweaty and headed to an antique mall…one that had air conditioning.  And we just strolled!

So a good weekend and a great plan!!!  I’ve got this!!