Sunday, December 9, 2012

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas... But Not At Our House

Celtic Christmas weekend at RenFest
Christmas is 16 days away.  That’s just over 2 weeks – and I haven’t even started getting ready. 

We usually put our tree up the weekend after Thanksgiving, but that’s when Mike got sick, and then the cat got sick and, well… I haven’t really had the time to breathe, much less think about Christmas.

I bought a poinsettia for my husband’s hospital room, and we put it on the front porch when he came home. Does that count as decorating?  No, I didn’t think so.

The new tree that James and I bought back in November is still sitting in its box. We brought the decorations down from the attic so we could donate two older trees, and all the boxes are sitting in the middle of our living room.

I have Christmas cards and stamps, but I haven’t even started addressing the envelopes.  I wanted to take a new family portrait to include in our cards this year.  Yeah, that hasn’t happened either.

I haven’t bought a single gift.  I have no idea what I would buy anyway, even if I did have the time to go shopping.  I could shop online, if I knew what to buy.  Is it too late to have things delivered in time for Christmas?

The worst part about this is that I don’t really care.  It’s not that I’m anti-Christmas…it’s just that I’m not at all excited about the holidays this year.  

We’re planning to put up the tree tonight after dinner, and I have some eggnog in the fridge.  Maybe that, and a little bourbon, will put me in a more festive mood. 

Cheers!

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Thankfulness: A Belated Thanksgiving Post

I am thankful that we were able to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal this year, and share it with my step-daughter, her boyfriend, and one of my son's best friends.

I am thankful that we were able to spend Black Friday at the Texas Renaissance Festival with my step-daughter and her boyfriend - even though my husband wasn't feeling well and had to stay home.  We also got to play a part in the big marriage proposal. It was a very special day.

I am thankful for all the wonderful people at the Conroe Regional Medical Center, who took such good care of my husband when we arrived early Saturday morning, and throughout his five day stay after his appendectomy. He came home on Thursday and is feeling much better.

I am thankful that my job provides medical insurance.

I am thankful for my son, who took care of things at home while I was spending time at the hospital, and took over hosting our house guests for the remainder of their visit.

I am thankful for my boss, who allowed me to work from home - on my own schedule - so I could spend time with my husband every day.  The free wi-fi at the hospital was helpful too.

I am thankful for the people at the West Davis Veterinary Clinic and Conroe Emergency Animal Clinic who cared for our cat. Puck became very ill with a blocked urinary tract on the same day that my husband came home from the hospital. He spent four days shuttling between these two clinics, and is still in the process of recovering - now at home.

I am thankful for my husband, who is taking care of the cats during his own recovery, so I can go back to work.

I am thankful that everyone is back home now.

I am thankful that I have Friday off.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Weighing In - September 2012

In June of 2011, I announced that I was tired of feeling "fat and frumpy" and I devised a plan to do something about it.

I started by keeping a food journal, and I faithfully recorded every bite of food that crossed my lips... for about 3 months. That was long enough to confirm that my biggest food problem (aside from overly large portions) was snacking. Specifically, snacking while watching TV.  So, I try to find other things to do with my time.  Obviously, I haven't been overly successful with this because my house is still a wreck and I have at least a dozen unfinished projects in my craft room.  And the M&M's... they will always be a temptation for me as long as they are in the house.  *sigh*

Exercise has become a regular thing for me.  Some weeks are more regular than others, but I try to get at least 4 workouts in every week. Sometimes I count weekend yard work as a workout, but I figure that if I'm sweating, it counts.  I've built up quite a collection of workout videos, and mix them up to keep it interesting.  The last week has been focused completely on yoga, since I rubbed blisters on my heels (new shoes) and needed something I could do barefoot.  See... no excuses!!!

I've been recording my weight and measurements every week... okay, most weeks... at least once a month, to see how I'm progressing.  Sometimes the numbers have gone up, but mostly they've gone down.  I set a goal to lose 69 pounds.  Yes, I know, that sounds like a lot of weight, and it is.  The fact is that I had gained a lot of weight, and 69 pounds would put me at a healthy weight for my height - not model thin, just healthy.  As of this week, I still have about 43 more pounds to lose.

For an entire year, I blogged about my progress every week.  Okay, I may have missed one or two weeks.  I shared my successes and failures with the world - okay, my five regular readers (LOVE you guys!!) - and I think that knowing that I would have to 'fess up kept me on track better than any paid weight loss program.  I plan to continue posting, but on a monthly-ish basis.  I am looking forward to one day writing that "I did it!" post.

My numbers:
Pounds (+/-) since last post:  -4.6
Total weight loss:  26.4
Inches (+/-) since last post:  3
Total inches lost:  36.5

Motivation:  We really can't expect to be successful when we attempt something without the proper motivation.  A lot of things have kept me motivated in the last year - my health, my family, being able to climb a flight of stairs without gasping for breath.  Vanity played a big part in it, too.  (Re-read the first sentence.)  This week, I will be attending my 30 year high school reunion.  Though I haven't yet reached my goal, I'm healthy, I'm happy, I feel really good about myself, and I look good! 

Here's to the Northbrook Raiders Class of '82.  Huzzah!

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Discovering Hubcap Grill

Shortly after I started working downtown (7 months ago), I heard about Hubcap Grill - home of "the best burger in Houston" - and I knew that I had to try it.  Sadly, I wasn't able to convince any of my regular lunch buddies to go there due to the five block walk. 

A few weeks ago, my mom texted me from the county courthouse, where she was waiting on her husband to be released from jury duty, and I immediately arranged to meet them for lunch.  I had the perfect place - Hubcap Grill.  Their downtown location at 1111 Prairie is between my office and the courthouse (a bit closer to the courthouse).  Perfect!  Hubcap Grill is the most unlikely looking burger place I have ever seen.  It's a tiny, cinder block building that seats maybe 12 people with an attached covered patio with additional (non-air-conditioned) seating, and it's decorated with hubcaps (surprise).  It reminded me of an old fashioned gas station, back when full service was still the norm.

Philly Cheese Steak Burger
I hear that the place is really packed between 11:30 and 1:30, so I was a little worried about dealing with the crowd. But thanks to some long-winded lawyers, we arrived after 2:00 - giving us our choice of the two tables in the main building  and just enough time to enjoy our lunch before they closed for the day at 3:00.  After asking which burger was the most popular, I ordered the Philly Cheese Steak Burger.  It was amazing - a 1/3 lb burger topped with grilled onions and peppers, ribeye shards and Swiss cheese on an in-house baked bun.  Mom and her hubby both chose the Greek Burger - with feta cheese, kalamata olives, onions, peppers, tomatoes - and claimed it to be delicious.  We shared an order of sweet potatoes, which we weren't able to finish after polishing off our burgers, and topped off our meal with bottles of root beer and cream soda.

The meal was definitely worth the long walk - and the exercise was a helpful start to burning off all the calories I consumed.  I'm ready to go back again to try that Greek Burger, so if you're in downtown Houston and you're looking for a great burger and a lunch date... give me a call!  Oh, and if you go to Hubcap Grill, make sure you take cash... they don't accept anything else.  Happy eating!

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Discovering Bombay Pizza Company

Two months ago, Kim and I ventured into Bombay Pizza Company for lunch. Bombay Pizza serves Italian cuisine fused with Indian herbs and spices. They're well known for their amazingly diverse variety of pizzas with cracker-thin crust, and have been featured on The Food Network show Best Thing I Ever Ate. 

On this visit, we decided to try The Slumdog - topped with pepperoni, Spanish chorizo, beef, Canadian bacon, mozarella, grilled chicken, jalapenos, red onion and Bombay pizza sauce. We ordered the large - 16" ($19), thinking that we would take the leftover slices home with us. The pizza was delivered to our table after a very short wait.  It was meaty and spicy, and the crust was thin and crispy, and it was so delicious that we ate every bite! 

My second visit to Bombay Pizza was with a friend from work. Gowri, who is from India, turned me on to his favorite dish, which is now my favorite.  Charlie's Blackened Chicken Roll ($7) - spicy chicken, carrots, cucumbers, and yogurt dressing rolled in naan bread and served with your choice of potato or sweet potato fries.  I am such a sucker for sweet potato fries!  If you decide to try this one, ask for a side of the green sauce (cilantro mint chutney) to try on your roll - you'll be glad you did.

Last week, Kim and I went back again (yes, it's getting to be a habit) and I suggested she try my new favorite, too.  I don't think she likes it quite as much as I do, but she said it was pretty good.  Being a good carnivore, she says she prefers The Slumdog.  I am looking forward to many more trips to try some of the other dishes and pizza combinations - Gateway of India sounds particularly yummy. 

Here's a tip: If you do go to Bombay Pizza Company for lunch, go early.  They get very busy and the tables fill up quickly. Enjoy!

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Discovering Cafe Express

A few weeks after starting my new downtown job, I ran into my friend, Kim. We've known each other since junior high!  We used to get together for regular lunches back when she was a stay-at-home mom and I worked in Tomball, but that stopped about five years ago when she went back to work. I was thrilled to learn that we work in the same building.  Small world!  We've been meeting for weekly lunches ever since.

Kim had mentioned Cafe Express as a place I should try. When she told me that they had sweet potato fries, I was sold!  The restaurant is a 3 block walk from the office - best visited on a good weather day - and I was impressed with the bright, roomy interior. There were several people working the counter, so we didn't have to wait long to place our orders.

I had the Rustica Chicken sandwich ($8.99) with sweet potato fries (extra $.99).  The sandwich was delicious - grilled chicken, roasted tomatoes, red onion, black olive tapenade, lettuce, basil pesto and vinaigrette on ciabatta bread. The fries were good, but not quite up to my expectations - I got the impression that they were frozen.  My favorite part of the meal was the black current iced tea.  I would go back just to have another glass of that tea... and maybe to try one of their gourmet burgers.  Yum!

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Weighing In - A Year Later

It's hard to believe that I started this weight loss journey over a year ago.  During that time, I've tried several different exercise program, and most recently completed Jillian's 90 day Body Revolution. The exercise portion of the program is great. It challenged me and kept me interested. I have never been very good with diets, so I didn't follow that portion of the program.  I'm sure that I would have lost more weight if I had.  I am stronger, though, and now I can breeze through other exercise videos that I used to find difficult. 

Just because a year has passed, doesn't mean I'm finished. Not by a long shot!  I still have 48 pounds to go, and I don't intend to stop until I reach my goal. Rather than run right out and buy a new program, I'm putting together my own using the various DVDs in my library.  When I get it figured out, I'll share it with you. After I've done that for a while, I may look for something new.  P90X sounds like it might be interesting.

You can expect to see continued posts on my progress in the coming months. I might even post a new picture.  Just thought I should warn you. 

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.4
Total weight loss:  21.8
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  0
Total inches lost:  33.5

My current motivation:  the Meet My Goals Challenge from Mom In Management. I didn't meet my goals for week 5 or 6, but I'm not giving up.  I'm too stubborn for that!

Monday, June 25, 2012

Discovering Downtown

Back in January, I walked away from my 17-year career with BJ Services (now Baker Hughes) and did something I had sworn I would never do again. I took a job in downtown Houston. What can I say? They made me an offer I couldn't refuse. 

Even though my commute is only 10 miles further (each way), I decided very quickly that I did not want to drive in Houston traffic. Taking The Woodlands bus allows me to work, read, or even nap during my commute; it costs about the same as gas + parking; and I arrive feeling relaxed rather than stressed. The only downfall is that my bus stop is half a mile from my office, but I look at that as a way to get a jump start on my daily exercise and, when the weather's bad, I can walk in the tunnels.  Win!

I'm starting to learn more about all the things Houston has to offer, and it's high time I shared.

Market Square has regular outdoor concerts, movies and other events that are free, and you can enjoy delicious Greek food (gyros!) from Niko Niko's during the show. My son and I attended a Fondue Monks concert there in March and had a blast.

The Park Shops (across from my building) offer a wide variety of shopping and eating for busy downtown workers. They have gift shops, clothing, electronics, beauty parlors and a workout facility - just to name a few. There are so many different restaurants in the Park Shops that I haven't managed to try them all yet. A few that I have tried:  Chick Fil A (always good), Ninfa's Express (smaller menu, but just as good as the big restaurants), Potbelly Sandwiches, Quiznos, Subway (all the chain stores are consistently good), Au Bon Pain (slightly fancier sandwiches), Wok & Roll (another chain and not bad at all), Chicken Kitchen (great salads), Otto's Barbecue (yummy), and The Mediterranean Grill (okay, but can't compare to Niko Niko's). So many choices! I just checked the directory and there are still more than a dozen restaurants that I have yet to try. So far, my favorite at the Park Shops would have to be Chicken Kitchen. I love their southwest chicken salad with cilantro dressing. Yum!

On Wednesdays in June, there's a City Hall Farmers Market where you can purchase locally grown fruits and veggies, and prepared lunch items. It's a little far from my office, so I haven't checked it out yet, but it sounds wonderful.

Then there are the tunnels... miles and miles of tunnels under downtown Houston... but I think I'll save that for another post. 

Friday, June 22, 2012

Weighing In - Week Fifty One

The last few weeks (okay, four weeks) I've been bouncing up and down the same 3 pound range. Obviously, I've hit a plateau and need to change things up a bit. I haven't quite decided what I'm going to do, but I'll figure it out.  I should probably start with taking my lunch to work more often, because there are some seriously tasty (but non-healthy) lunch options in downtown Houston.  As for exercise... I have two more weeks to go with Body Revolution. After that I'll do something different.  Maybe Yoga Meltdown.  I enjoyed that one, but didn't have the upper body strength to do it properly at first. I think that maybe now I do.  It's definitely worth trying again, and I might even get past Level 1 this time. 

This week I gained 0.4 lb. and was so annoyed about that that I didn't even bother with taking measurements. Next week, I promise I'll pull out the old measuring tape and see if I've made any more progress.

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +0.4
Total weight loss:  21.4
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  0
Total inches lost:  33.5

My current motivation:  the Meet My Goals Challenge from Mom In Management. My goals for week 4 were to exercise (6 days), drink more water, and avoid those darned coffee shop muffins.  I managed to meet my goals this time.  Yea me! 

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Weighing In - Week Fifty

There's something about extra food (and the threat of spoilage) that sparks creativity. My son came home from college with a giant jar of applesauce, and when I remembered what happened with the last jar of applesauce that entered our house, I came up with a simple idea that I'd like to share with you. Sprinkle a small bowl of applesauce with cinnamon and top with a couple spoonfuls of granola. It's super easy and tastes like an apple crisp... and it's great for those of us who are trying to keep the calorie count low.

More important than counting calories is burning them off - at least that's the way I see it. I've just started phase 3 of Jillian Michael's Body Revolution, and the workouts at this level are seriously kicking my butt.  I haven't been able to get all the way through without stopping, but I hope that I'll get there before it's time to switch to the final set of videos. Maybe I'll do an extra week at this level. 

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +0.6
Total weight loss:  21.8
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  0
Total inches lost:  33.5

My current motivation:  the Meet My Goals Challenge from Mom In Management. My goals for week 3 were to exercise (6 days), drink more water, and avoid the calorie-laden muffins at the coffee shop.  My reality was - I missed one workout due to a power outage (completed 5, though) and I caved in and had a cranberry orange muffin with my coffee on Friday. I'll do better next week.

Sunday, June 3, 2012

Weighing In - Week Forty Nine

I'm happy to say that I'm starting to get back on track again. I've completed phase 2 of Jillian's Body Revolution and will be starting phase 3 tomorrow. Each phase is more challenging than the next, and I can't wait to see what this next phase will bring. I just hope that I can keep up! 

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -2.0
Total weight loss:  22.4
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.5
Total inches lost:  33.5

My current motivation:  the Meet My Goals Challenge from Mom In Management. I met my goals for week 2.  My goals were to exercise (6 days), drink more water, and avoid the calorie-laden muffins at the coffee shop.  Check. These goals worked so well for me, that I've decided to repeat them for week 3.

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Bye Bye Birdie

What is up with the birds lately?  They’ve been strangely absent the last few months. I have two feeders outside my kitchen window, and I usually have so many feathered visitors that I have to refill them every weekend.  But I haven’t needed to fill them for over two months now.

At first I thought it was bad seed. I picked up a bag at the grocery store instead of my usual place, and I thought maybe the seed was old. So I went back to my regular place and bought a new bag. Nope.  That wasn’t it. Still no birds. 

I haven’t seen very many squirrels either.  One little guy stops by and steals seed about once a week, but that’s it.  Strange.

We do have an amazing abundance of butterflies this year, though.  Maybe because there are no birds around to eat them.

Is it just me?  Is anyone else in the Houston area missing their birds this year?

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Weighing In - Week Forty Eight

If I had written a post last week, I would have told you that I lost 1.2 lbs. But I didn't. Then I would have followed up with a post this week saying I had gained 2.8 lbs.  But I didn't.  So, since I've been lazy about posting, I can tell you that I gained 1.6 lbs over the last two weeks.  That doesn't sound as good as losing 1.2, but it sounds better than gaining 2.8.

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +1.6
Total weight loss:  20.4
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0
Total inches lost:  33.0

My current motivation:  The Meet My Goals Challenge from Mom In Management. At the end of week one, I had met my goals, even though I didn't lose any weight.  My goals center around exercise (Jillian Michaels' Body Revolution 6 days a week) and snacking (specifically, not snacking), and this week I'm trying to drink more water.

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Weighing In - Week Forty Six

It's been a rough week.  Lots of stress. But I did finally get all the way through workouts 5 & 6 of Body Revolution, which is good, because it's time to switch to 7 & 8. I really love Jillian, but I honestly think she's trying to kill me. These workouts are tough! I am absolutely certain that the tiny weight gain this week can be blamed on the muscles I'm building.

My week came to a lovely end on Mother's Day.  My son, who is home from college, presented me with a very thoughtful gift - a little red ceramic teapot and the most amazingly delicious tea; then he and my husband cooked me a lovely dinner of barbecue chicken.  I ended the day by sharing a cup of tea with my baby boy. It was a perfect day!

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +0.2
Total weight loss:  22.0
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0
Total inches lost:  33.0

My current motivation:  Can't wait for this new challenge from Mom In Management to start!

Monday, May 7, 2012

Weighing In - Week Forty Five

I thought I was ready for Phase 2 of Body Revolution. Ha! Wrong. Phase 2 is really tough. Once again, I can't get all the way through without stopping, and I have to do the "sissy" version of certain moves. I know I shouldn't be so hard on myself. I'm at least 10 years older than the hard-bodies in the videos, and at least I'm making an effort. But, for once, it would be nice to say "I can do this", and know that I really can. 

I am happy to report that the challenge of Phase 2 seems to be just what I needed to jump start my weight loss. Here's to hoping that will continue... since I need to burn off the pounds I know I gained from my hubby's birthday dinner. 

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -2.2
Total weight loss:  22.2
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.5
Total inches lost:  33.0

My current motivation:  My friend, Daria, from Mom In Management is starting a new 10 week Meet My Goals challenge. I love these challenges, because they help me stay motivated. I can't wait to get started!

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Weighing In - Week Forty Four

Phase 1 of Body Revolution is complete. Four weeks, six days a week. I missed one day when I was sick, and on two Saturdays I replaced the 30 minute cardio with lawn work. I'd say my level of dedication has been pretty good.  Now, on to Phase 2.

With another small gain this week, I question my decision to skip the diet portion of the program. It wouldn't be hard for me to get rid of all the junk food, stock my fridge and pantry with healthy choices, and cook the recipes that came with the program. But I think my family would protest. Hubby would be looking for the cookies and M&M's and the boy would complain that there's "nothing to eat" when he comes home from school. So, I buy the foods that everyone enjoys, and I enjoy them, too. I guess I need to strengthen my resolve and stay away from the darned M&M's!

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +0.4
Total weight loss:  20.0
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -1.5
Total inches lost:  32.5

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:  Inches. I may not be losing pounds every single week, but the inches are coming off steadily. As long as I'm seeing positive changes, I'm encouraged.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Weighing In - Week Forty Three

I made it through week 3 of Body Revolution. These workouts are HARD, but I'm sticking with it. I may not do all the reps, but like Jillian says, I "show up".

That pound that I gained last week... it's gone, along with a little bit  more.  I would love to see "Biggest Loser" type results, but I would have to follow the very strict diet program for that, and I'm not going to do that.

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -1.2
Total weight loss:  20.4
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.5
Total inches lost:  31.0

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.

My current motivation:  New pants, since all of mine are starting to get too big. The only ones that really fit anymore are yoga pants, and I don't think those are acceptable for work. Guess a shopping trip is in order.  (sigh)

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Weighing In - Week Forty Two

I've completed week two of Jillian Michaels' Body Revolution.  I'm not as strong as the people on the video - I can't do as many reps, but there is not a single exercise that I cannot do. More importantly, I can make it all the way through the half hour workout without stopping.  Which is more than I could do just a month ago.  I'm making progress.  I can't wait to see what the next level of this program offers.

I gained a pound this week.  It could be water weight or added muscle from my new workout program. Either way, I'm okay with it. It's only one pound, and I expect it to be gone next week. (Yes, I'm crossing my fingers.)

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +1.0
Total weight loss:  19.2
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0
Total inches lost:  30.5

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:  Six-pack abs. I'm starting to see definition in my abs. I'm not at the six-pack stage yet, but I know that I can get there if I stick with it. 

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Weighing In - Week Forty One

Week one of Jillian Michaels' Body Revolution has gone well.  Phase 1 consists of Workout 1 (which targets chest, shoulders, arms, quads, and core) on days 1 and 4, Workout 2 (which targets back, biceps, glutes, hamstrings, and core) on days 2 and 5, and Cardio 1 on days 3 and 6. Day 7 is a rest day. This series is repeated on week 2. Then on weeks 3 and 4 , you switch to Workouts 3 and 4 with Cardio 1.  There are new sets of videos for Phase 2 and Phase 3. 

The 90 day program is designed to keep you engaged and move you to new levels that will challenge your abilities. The best part, in my opinion, is that each workout is only 30 minutes long - which is great for a people with busy schedules.

I followed the exercise program, but not the diet, on the first 5 days. On day six, I skipped the cardio workout, but more than made up for it on day 7 with 2 hours of yard work. I wonder what my results would be like if I chose to follow the diet plan. 

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -1.0
Total weight loss:  20.2
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0
Total inches lost:  30.5

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:  Stamina.  I found that I don't need to take as many rest breaks during yard work as I used to. I could have kept going for more than two hours if it weren't for the need to start cooking dinner.  That, and a blister on my thumb.  Ouch!

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Weighing In - Week Forty

The last two weeks have been busy ones. I worked a Boy Scout Camporee, I didn't exercise as much as I would have liked, I gained a little weight and lost a couple of inches.

My new Jillian Michaels' Body Revolution finally arrived, and I plan to start the exercise program tomorrow. As for the diet, I plan to continue to do what I've been doing - reducing portion sizes and making healthier choices.  Last night's dinner for instance, was tilapia with dill sauce and sauteed green beans with onions and red peppers.  Healthy and delicious - even my husband loved it.

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +1.6
Total weight loss:  19.2
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -2.0
Total inches lost:  30.5

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:  Needs a boost. I've slipped on the snacking lately and don't want to go back to my old, bad habits.

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Weighing In - Week Thirty Eight

Let me start by saying that I do not recommend a stomach virus as a weight loss program. Having said that, I started off my week by feeling icky on Monday and Tuesday, and skipping my workout both days. That progressed to stomach cramps, nausea and a need to stay close to the facilities on Wednesday and Thursday. Lucky for me that working from home is an option. I was able to get my work done, though I did take an extended lunch - with a nap - both days. By Friday, I was feeling mostly normal again, and was able to enjoy my floating holiday with my son, James.

I was a little worried that my complete lack of exercise during the week would have a negative effect on my weight loss results. Actually, it worked in my favor... maybe it was the nausea. Anyway, my total weight loss for the week was 3.2 lbs.
Since I've passed a 20 lb. mini-goal, I've decided to reward myself by getting the new workout system I've been wanting - Jillian Michaels' Body Revolution. I've earned it and it should help me with the remaining 49 lbs. I want to lose.

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -3.2
Total weight loss:  20.8
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.5
Total inches lost:  28.5

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:  Shorts. Specifically getting rid of shorts. My size 16s have gone into the donation box and the 14s are about to follow. I still have some 12s left in the wardrobe, so I don't plan to buy any new ones until I can shop for a size 10, or maybe even an 8.

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Friday Night in Houston

Last night, James and I headed into Houston for a concert at Market Square. We started our evening with a short walking tour of the area - a few blocks up Milam to see an interesting topiary, a drop down into the tunnels so I could check where one of the exits led, then over to Main to see the train. James found it all very interesting, though admitted that the lack of trees and open sky felt stifling.

After our walk, we headed back to Market Square and Nico Nico's for a bite to eat. The gyros and hummus were delicious, and they had an impressive menu of coffee beverages. I'll be visiting there again, even though it may take half my lunch hour to make the 10 block trip.

I was pleased to note that the park wasn't too crowded. We saw several families with children and/or dogs. Some brought picnics while others, like us, took advantage of the nearby restaurants. It was a very comfortable setting, and I found myself forgetting that I was sitting in the middle of downtown Houston.

Fondue Monks provided the evening entertainment. Their "Texas funk" style had the audience swaying and smiling - and a few brave souls were even dancing near the stage.
 

Beautiful weather, good food and great music - all combined to make this a memorable evening. You can be sure that I'll be looking for more opportunities like this in the future.



Sunday, March 11, 2012

Weighing In - Week Thirty Six / Seven

Yes, I skipped my post last week. Yes, I gained again - 1.4 lbs - and I just didn't have the heart to write about it. This week?  This week, I lost 3.2 lbs. - a net loss of 1.8 lbs.  And that is something worth writing about.

I'm completely clueless as to why I lost this week. I didn't eat differently. I only did one and 1/2 workouts (once was cut short when my son arrived home from college) plus my mile-a-day walking commute. Whatever it was, I'm happy to get it.  Or maybe I should say, I'm happy to lose it.

I'm less than half a pound away from my pre-holiday weight. Very encouraging, and it really makes me want to kick it back into high gear.

I've been looking at Jillian's new Body Revolution. I haven't quite decided if I'm ready to fork over the $120 yet, but I'm definitely leaning in that direction. The promise of Biggest Loser style results is very tempting.

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -1.8
Total weight loss:  17.6
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0
Total inches lost:  28.0

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.

My current motivation:  Gaining back (losing) the ground (weight) I had lost (gained) over the holidays, and resuming real progress toward my goal.

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Weighing In - Week Thirty Five

Evidently my bathroom scale thinks it's a roller coaster, and I am not the least bit amused by the ride. I gained a pound again this week. So, what is it this time - water weight, stress, or those Girl Scout cookies? I don't know - I just know that this up and down thing is getting quite annoying. I'm ready for those numbers to get back to where they were before the holidays (one day soon, please), and then I can focus on moving forward. At 35 weeks, and less than a quarter of the way to my goal, I realize that it will take me more than a year to get there. Maybe I can make it in two.

I am encouraged that I'm still losing inches - half an inch each in my waist and chest.

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +1.0
Total weight loss:  15.8
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -1.0
Total inches lost:  28.0

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.

My current motivation:  My yoga pants. Yes, really! One pair still fits, but the other two are getting loose and I find myself hitching them up during my workout.  How awesome is that?

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Weighing In - Week Thirty Three/Four

If you are one of my four regular readers, you may have noticed that there wasn't an update last week. The rest of you probably didn't miss a thing. (wink)  So, why did I skip a week? I started a new job, I had a birthday (see my previous post), and I'm staffing on yet another Scouting event. I've been a little busy. So now, I'm playing catch-up. 

I indulged a little during my birthday week. For details, read my Happy Birthday post. All that celebrating showed in a one pound gain. But I behaved myself quite well the following week and lost 1.8 pounds. So, all in all, I'm making progress in the right direction.  And I lost 1/2 inch in my calves - a happy result of all that tunnel hiking.

My numbers for the week(s):
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.8
Total weight loss:  16.8
Inches lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.5
Total inches lost:  27.0

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.

My current motivation:  The numbers! I'm only 1.2 pounds away from my pre-holiday weight. I'm looking forward to regaining that ground and moving forward (or downward) to my goal.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Happy Birthday

When did birthdays become something to dread? I remember the days when I looked forward to my birthday, because I knew there would be cake and presents, maybe even a party. I don't remember when the celebration stopped. Maybe it was after my son was born, and I had someone else to focus my energy on.  Maybe it was after I entered my 40's and admitted that I was middle-aged. I'm not really sure when it was. I just know that at some point, I was no longer interested in celebrating the anniversary of my birth.

Yesterday was my birthday. My 48th to be exact. I would have been perfectly happy treating it like any other day, but my friends and my family, however, refused let the day pass without notice.  It started early - on Monday afternoon - when I checked my mail and found a card from my sister, addressed to "The Fabulous & Amazing Le'Ann Ruggles".  Then Tuesday night, a few minutes before midnight, the greetings started filling my Facebook wall. All day long, my phone was buzzing with Facebook posts, IMs, and even singing voicemails. Lunch was a long, relaxed and entertaining conversation with my friend, Jim - and good food, too.

When I got home, there were more cards and my husband, who insisted on taking me out for dinner to one of my favorite restaurants. I completely forgot about my weight-loss plan as we enjoyed a wonderful meal of fried catfish.  The evening festivities were complete when my son called me to sing his own version of Happy Birthday.

All in all, it was a wonderful day. I felt very special and very loved.

I'm actually looking forward to next year.

Monday, February 6, 2012

Weighing In - Week Thirty Two

How is it that you can work your butt off one week and gain weight, and slack off the next week and lose weight? It just doesn't make sense.  I worked out 3 nights, and took my lunch (leftovers) to work 2 days, and I lost 0.8 lb. Maybe I wasn't as stressed.  I just don't know.

I found my pedometer, but the battery was dead. I could have spent $5-6 on a new battery, so I could measure the distance from my bus stop to my office and then drop my pedometer back in the drawer where it could die again. But I decided that would be wasteful. I looked it up on the internet instead.  According to Google Maps, the distance is 1/2 a mile, which means that I am walking 1 mile a day during my commute. Any walking I do in the office or at lunchtime is extra. I'm feeling healthier already.

My numbers for the week:
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.8
Total weight loss:  16.0
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:  My butt... only smaller.

Monday, January 30, 2012

Weighing In - Week Thirty One

I started a new job on Monday. I think the stress of starting over after 17 years and the longer commute may have contributed to my less than stellar results this week. Eating lunch out every day may have been a factor, too. My commute is longer and I'm getting home later, which makes it harder to fit in my evening exercise. I only managed three workouts for the week - unless you count the 5 block walk from bus stop to office.

I'm hoping to get used to my new schedule quickly so I can get back into a routine of packing a (nutritous) lunch 3-4 days and exercising at least 4 days each week. I'm also going to search for the pedometer that I know I have - somewhere - and wear it to work so I can see just how much distance I'm traveling. That has to count for something. Right?

My numbers for the week:
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +0.4
Total weight loss:  15.2
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:  Cute new clothes (smaller size) to go with the cute shoes and purse I bought over the weekend. 

Monday, January 23, 2012

Weighing In - Week Thirty

I just celebrated my last week at my job. And I do mean celebrated. Lunches out with friends - Mexican and Italian. Celebratory bottles of wine and skipping regular workouts (only did three).

So, why is it that I still lost weight? I'm not complaining. I just don't understand.

One of my super-healthy friends tells me that it's because the muscle that I've been building is burning more calories. I've never experienced this phenomenon before, and doubted its existence. Maybe I was wrong. Either way, I'll take my 1 pound weight-loss, and smile about it.

My numbers for the week:
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -1.0
Total weight loss:  15.6
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:  Life changes, and so should my health - in a good way! Now that I've started a new job, I need to get my schedule figured out so that I can still do my (almost) daily workouts. I'll let you know how that goes.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Weighing In - Week Twenty Nine

I only made a little progress this week.  Maybe it's the weekend snacking or maybe I'm adding muscle.  I worked out 5 days in a row, y'all!  I think that's a record for me.  I'm really rockin' level 3 of the 30 Day Shred now.  I love this workout, but I'm afraid that I will get bored with it after a while, so I'm in the market for a new challenge. If you know of any really awesome videos, please share!

I went clothes shopping on Sunday, and didn't find much.  I bought a jacket, a pair of slacks and a coat. There wasn't much to choose from in the three stores I visited. Looks like they are clearing out the winter clothes to make room for spring fashions. Oh well, I guess that means I'll be visiting some other stores next weekend.  Gotta dress for success!

My numbers for the week:
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -0.6
Total weight loss:  14.6
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:  Buying a new wardrobe for my new job... in a smaller size!  Still shopping, so this hasn't changed.  ;) 

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Weighing In - Week Twenty Eight

I have decided that 2012 is going to be my year. The year that I get back to a healthy weight, take the time to enjoy my new camera, and make that career change I've been hoping for.

I've started reversing the damage from the holidays.  I worked out 4 times during the week (one more than my goal) and lost 2 pounds and 1/2 inch. Since it was the first week of the new year, I decided to move up to level 3 of the 30 Day Shred. It's hard, but I surprised myself by being able to do all the moves. Of course I'm doing the beginner version, and I sometimes have to stop in the middle to rest for a few seconds... but I'm doing it and it feels great!

Those slacks that have been hanging in my closet... I wore them this week, and they looked great!

As for the other items on my 2012 list...

I started the year off with an afternoon of informal street shooting with my friend, Jennifer. It was great fun and definitely worth repeating - and with my purse that is now a camera bag, I'll be ready to take advantage of the next opportunity.  In fact, I may even spring for a new Epiphanie bag this year.

The career change is already in progress.  After 17 years with the same company, I have given my notice and will be starting a new job in less than two weeks.  I'm scared and excited at the same time. 

It's going to be a great year!

My numbers for the week:
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  -2.0
Total weight loss:  14.0
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:  Buying a new wardrobe for my new job... in a smaller size! 

Monday, January 2, 2012

Weighing In - Week Twenty Seven

I started this weight-loss journey six months ago, and no one is more surprised than I am that I'm still going strong.  I think that the accountability of reporting my progress in weekly posts has been a huge motivation for me. It's also given my blog a boost.  In my third year of blogging, I actually have (sort of) regular posts.

That makes the 4th week in a row weight gain a little easier to bear. I'd love to say it's water weight or muscle, but it's definitely those little holiday over indulgences that are to blame. (Did I mention that I'm glad Christmas is over?) I've gained a total of 6 pounds over the holiday.  BUT I'm still 12 pounds lighter than I was when I started. And that's something to be happy about! 

So, it's a new year and I am definitely ready to get back on track.  One of my goals for this year is to get back to a healthy weight. Will I be ready for a bikini this summer?  Maybe, maybe not - but without a doubt, I'll be closer than I was last summer.

My numbers for the week:
Pounds lost (-) or gained (+) this week:  +1.4
Total weight loss:  12.0
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.

My current motivation:  Losing that muffin top!