Saturday, December 31, 2011

2011 Goals in Review

At the beginning of this year, I chose to set goals instead of making New Year's resolutions. Now that the year is coming to a close, it's time to review those goals and see how I did.

One of my goals for the year was to become a healthier person. In June, I finally got serious and started exercising regularly, with a goal of getting back to a healthy weight (losing 69 pounds). I haven't reached my goal weight yet, but I have managed to exercise at least 3 times each week (with only one exception). Part of my commitment was to be accountable and blog about my progress each week. I know that this is the reason I've stuck with it this time. I would consider the original goal met, and worthy of continuing.

Another goal was to make my home more comfortable by removing clutter. I've made a lot of progress, but still have work to do. I'm not sure that this is something that will ever be completely finished - especially when other family members (and their stuff) are involved.

Last year I bought myself a new camera for Christmas. My last goal was to learn how to use all the features. I've taken a lot of pictures this year - even framed a few - but I still have a lot to learn about my camera. I tried participating in a weekly photo challenge, but gave up after a couple of months when the topics didn't inspire me. Maybe I should create my own challenge where I just shoot what interests me. Hmm, I'll have to give that some thought.

I like these goals.  I think that I'll keep them for next year as well.

Happy New Year, my friends!

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Weighing In - Week Twenty Six

I am so glad that Christmas is over.  I gained another 2.4 lbs last week and I am thankful that there will be no more candy and baked goodies coming out of my kitchen for a while. Now, if I could just get rid of all the stuff that is already there... without eating it myself! 

I'll be working a temporary job for the next few days. That will keep me busy (and away from temptation) for a while. I've done a pretty good job of staying on track with my exercise - getting in a minimum of three workouts a week - but it will be easier when vacation is over and I get back to my regular work routine.

There will be some changes this year, but I will have to share those with you in a later post.  In the meantime, I hope you all have a very Happy New Year!!

My numbers for the week:
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +2.4
Total weight loss:  13.4
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0
Total inches lost:  26.5

Where do I get my best motivation?  From you and from my friends at the Empty the Junk from the Trunk group on Facebook. Stop by and check it out.

My current motivation:  Still looking forward to wearing those khaki slacks (and some black slacks that I picked up a few days ago) without any muffin top!

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Weighing In - Week Twenty Five

The holidays are the worst time for weight-loss.  Cookies, candy, family get-togethers based on meals - it's all a huge marketing conspiracy to make us gain weight. Don't believe me?  Then wait until the first of the year and see how many stores have big sales on exercise equipment. See?  I know what I'm talking about.

Last week I gained again - just a little bit, though.  My friend, Daria, swears that it's muscle weight, and since I'm still losing inches (yes, half an inch counts), I'm inclined to agree with her.  My goal for this week before Christmas is simply to maintain.  I will enjoy some holiday treats (including egg nog) and spending time with my family, and if I'm a good girl, maybe Santa will bring me something special this year. 

My numbers for the week:
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +0.6
Total weight loss:  15.8
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.5
Total inches lost:  26.5

Where do I get my best motivation?  From you and from my friends at the Empty the Junk from the Trunk group on Facebook. Stop by and check it out.

My current motivation:  Wearing those brand new khaki slacks that are currently hanging in my closet.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Weighing In - Week Twenty Four

The roller coaster is on a uphill track this week. Fortunately this week's up is a lot smaller than last week's down, and next week should be another down week - if I can stay out of the Christmas cookies, that is. The holidays are tough for me.  I have a tendency to eat more when I'm stressed out and Christmas can be a pretty stressful time.  I did finally get my Christmas cards mailed... now I just have to finish up the shopping and the wrapping and the baking.  Seriously, you'd think that I wouldn't have time to eat!

Remember last week, when I said I needed to get new slacks?  Well, I picked up a pair of khakis - the same brand I bought last time in a smaller size - and the darned things don't fit like I had hoped.  They're just a little tight and... Hello, muffin top!  I really don't want to return them.  I'm thinking (hoping) that they will stretch if I wear them for a while. The old ones were always a little snug right after they'd been washed and then they would stretch out.  Wishful thinking?  Yeah, maybe. 

My numbers for the week:
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +1.6
Total weight loss:  16.4
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0
Total inches lost:  26.0

Where do I get my best motivation?  From you and from my friends at the Empty the Junk from the Trunk group on Facebook. Stop by and check it out.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Weighing In - Week Twenty Three

As I stepped on the scale this morning, I recalled that I had only done 3 workouts last week, and had enjoyed a few cookies - okay, a lot of cookies. My expectations were pretty low. When I saw the number, I almost fell off the scale.  I had lost 5 pounds since last Sunday.  That might be my best week yet, and it more than makes up for the 2 pounds I gained last week.

I'm 2 pounds away from my first mini-goal, and 51 pounds away from my long-term goal. It may take me another year (or more) to get there, but I know I will make it. 

I visited my mom and stepdad on Friday, and they both remarked on my weight loss. In fact, my mom commented that my slacks were looking a little baggy in the rear.  Guess I'll be headed to the store during my lunch hour tomorrow to shop for new slacks... in a smaller size.  :)

My numbers for the week:
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -5.0
Total weight loss:  18.0
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.5
Total inches lost:  26.0

Where do I get my best motivation?  From you and from my friends at the Empty the Junk from the Trunk group on Facebook. Stop by and check it out.