Day 37: Get back!

Okay folks... So, I've kinda been laying low. This weekend was a real family oriented weekend (which was nice). But now I have to get back... "Get back to what?" you might ask. Wanna hear it, here it goes:

Get Back To...

1. Reading motivational material. I read my last issue of Shape magizine in the 1st week and I was without until today.

2. Watching my Biggest Loser. I record it every week, but I missed watching the show 2 weeks in a row. One episode down today... one more to go.

3. Walking out doors. I haven't walked for exercise outdoors since early fall, but it's warming up... time to hit the pavement.

4. Eating at home. I did alot of on the go eatting this weekend, and though most of it was good, nothing beats making it yourself and knowing exactly what is going into your meals... and your body.

5. Putting it all out there on the blog. I started to update my progress photos, but didn't get it just how I want to. I want to be able to see some real before and after. This is going to take come help from a professional blogger or at least a techie... but i am going to give you what you deserve.

So, there, I've said it. Now you hold me to it and if you can't, just GET BACK!

Day 33: P6

So for the past few days I have needed a little... actually... alot of P6. What's P6? Well, I'm glad you asked. P6 is my new name for an old saying, "Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance." Since Thursday, I've been lacking the Prior, the Planning, and the Performance. Therefore, the result is just Piss Poor. So, let's take it from the top. I had a paper and an observation both due on Friday. So, the gym on Thursday night was replace with a later night cram session (let's not talk about the fact that I had 2 weeks to get this done). Then, because I stayed up so late on Thursday, I slept in on Friday. That led me to not only miss the gym, but I also failed to pack lunch for the day. Add to that tutoring after school and class directly after that and you have zero gym time on Friday. Still I did manage to eat fairly well to that point. Now comes today. I miss zumba, cause I'm in the middle of making a carrot souffle (at 9:30am???). Then I was set to take the kids to a bday party and the movies. And... because I didn't plan for hunger while I was out... I had some serious movie theater popcorn.
So, the moral of this story is that (Again) you must plan ahead. But not only for what you will eat, or when you will exercise. Plan to complete tasks in your life in such a manner that you do not add stress to your mind or your body. They say that procrastination is the stealer of time. I'm a believer... It stole 3 workouts and a lunch. I have plenty more homework assignments to go. I was working on one tonight as a matter of fact. But I now realize the importance of carving out real scheduled time in my week to take care of all things school related. That way I don't look up and see the deadline before me with nothing accomplished. Less stress... more life.

Day 30: Walk a Mile in My Shoe

When I was home over the summer my sister bought me a pair of shoes for walking. This jesture was prompted by complaints that my feet hurt when I would exercise. I did in fact like the shoes. But I quickly wore them out... So, I was back in my old running shoes, from 2006, in no time. Well, in November one of my fitness instructors at the Y was like, you need to buy some new shoes. He went on about how he didn't want me to hurt myself. I took that little piece of information and filed it away in the back of my mind. Then I read an article in Shape about wearing the right shoes. So, I opened that new shoe file in my mind and decided to give it some consideration. I ended up going to Dick's Sporting Goods late one night to find some new kicks. I have wide flat feet, so I was lost looking at shoes. I had to ask the sales person to name some brands that would work for me. I kind of randomly pick a pair, but I love them. They feel really good. My feet don't hurt when I walk or run. I've realized what a huge difference a shoe can make. So I'm telling you now, inspect your shoe... If it don't fit (or feel right), you must a' quit... walking in them and head to the nearest shoe store.

Day 28: Just say No... Thank you

So, I hope everyone felt the love this Valentine's day. I know I have. Maybe even a little too much. I've been given chocolate, chocolate, and more chocolate. Chocolate turtles, chocolate hearts, chocolate tootsie pops, and chocolate fortune cookies. All of that and not to mention the cupcakes. Dozens and dozens of cupcakes. But I used a couple of strategies to prevent ultimate diet sabotage.

1. Say, "No, thank you."- It used to be so hard to say no. I'd eat every cupcake and chocolate offered to me. I didn't want to turn anyone down and hurt their feelings. Now I realize that turning down sweets does not have to hurt anyone's feelings. In turning it down I am exercising my will power and I am setting a great example for others. Many people actually respect the will power.

2. Pay it Forward- Another option which I also took advantage of today was to pass it on. I accepted many of the wonderful gifts there were bestoyed upon me, but then I passed them on and shared with others. It felt good to give and even better to obstain.

2. Everything in Moderation- Today I did have 5 piece of chocolate over the course of the day. Much better than the couple cupcakes and tons of chocolate. It was nice to enjoy a small piece of the holiday. Chocolate has it's health benefits, so I was also doing something good for me. Gotta Love It.

Day 27: Time Out

Folks, one thing that I am realizing is that I love my exercise time. Not just because I'm getting all sexified and healthy, but also because it is that rare me time that I crave. When I go to the gym, I am in a room full of grown people and no one is arguing or begging me for a cookie. I don't hear my phone ringing. I'm not surrounded by all of the things that must get done. At that time I am not mom, daughter, wife, friend, or sister. I am simply Priscilla. And thought I enjoy being all of those other things, it's nice to get back to who you are all by yourself. I embrace this time. I even like to let it linger. On days when I am not stressed for time I just sit in the sauna and marinate. It helps me unwind and be better for myself and those around me.
So, if you needed one more reason to get out there and work it out. There you have it. Working out brings you closer to who you are... it's especially helpful when you are not quite sure who that is.

Day 26: Oh, How I Love Me...

Oh, How I Love Me... Let me count the ways...
I know the approaching holiday is all about showing others how much you love them and I embrace the opportunity to do so. Still,  I believe it's also a wonderful chance to show yourself some love. Alot of times we focus on what's wrong with us... "I hate my stomach!" "I can't fit my clothes." "The scale wont budge"... But what about what's right. Take a moment to celebrate the wonderful things that make you YOU. Feeling better about who you are now is step one to being a better you later. Here's what I love about me.

1. I can make a meal out of anything. Black beans and corn, ramen and hotdogs, cottage cheese and applesauce. Yum...
2. I can take a tune and make it a jingle. Here's an example (To the Tune of: Love the Way You Lie, Eminem featuring Rihanna), Just gonna stand here and watch me learn, but that's alright cause you're gonnna have a turn. Just gonna stand there and try to slack, but that's alright there're no answers in the back. No answers in the back. :)
3. Random people talk to me. I could be in an airport, on the street, in a public restroom. It doesn't matter, people talk to me. Sometimes it just a question and others it's a full blown conversation. I watch them walk past other people and approach me. My friends and family even notice it. Like they say, I've never met a stranger.
4. I am not my hair. I used to hold on to and charish the long hair that I inherited from my grandmothers. I'd spend hours in the mirror trying to get it right and get frustrated when I couldn't. Not anymore. I chopped it all off and I haven't looked back. It's carefree and low maintenance, but like me.  
5. The small stuff just doesn't phase me. I like to say, "I'm easy like Sunday morning." I go with the flow. And when things aren't at even keel, my boat sails on. Trust me people. It's an asset. Less stress, better health. Simple as that.
6. I just keep graduating. I was talking to my mom the other day and I didn't realize how many graduations I'd had. Pre-K, Kindergarten, 5th grade, 8th grade, 12th grade, basic training, AIT, Bachelor's Degree, and soon my Master. And I don't plan on quiting. It's a good feeling to accomplish something, to see it through to the end, and to become better all the while.
7. I'm flexible. Not just mentally (going with the flow), but also physically. I can put my clasped hands behind my back, do a split, and kick at head level. I love that my body extends beyond what most others can do. It reminds me that I'm special.
8. I keep trying to be a better me. Whether it's going to school or going to church, attending a training or attending zumba, I keep trying to be better. Once upon a time I thought everyone was like that, but I now realize that some people are content with just being and others are so overwhelmed that they don't act. I'm not perfect by a long shot, but if I strive for perfection, I can only get better.
9. I'm blessed I serve an awesome God and it shows. From my family and friends to my job and successes, God's had in my life is evident. I love that my God loves me.
10. I'm alot of things to alot of people... and many of them matter. I am is wife, mother, daugther, sister, aunt, friend, teacher, student, peer... and all of those things matter to someone. I believe that I am a rock to my husband, an example for my children, a legacy for my parents, a piece of the puzzle for my sister and brothers, a different perspective for my nieces and nephews, a lot of things (nurse, counselor, mentor, tutor) to my student, a reason to come to work for my professors, and a allie for my peers.

And because I love myself so much, I am going to take care of me. Mind body and soul. Good in... Good out. Happy Valentine's Day

Day 24: Biggest Loser Mindset

I don't know if I've said it before, but I love The Biggest Loser. It's very inspiring to see people who have so much to lose, or gain (depending on how you look at it), give it everything to make their dreams to come true. I know that the conditions under which they lose the weight are unreal and many of the people regain their lost weight. However, there are some things to be learn from the show and the people on it.
1. If a 500 lb. man can run on a treadmill, so can I. Seriously, some of the Biggest Losers can only run on the treadmill for a short period of time. Not because of their health, but because they break the machines. Now, I did break my Tony Little's Gazzelle not too long ago, but that was different. It was cheap and I was rough. 
2. There is power in numbers. It's one thing when you are working out for yourself, but it's different when other people are counting on you. Trust me. I don't want to let you down. As well, for most people, working out by yourself just isn't any fun. Time flies when I am on the treadmill chatting with a good friend or in a zumba class full of people.
3. Let it all hang out... bellies and all. The Biggest Losers get up in front of half the world, take off their shirts, and post their weights. There are no secrets. Don't be ashamed of the number on the scale, let it motivate you. Don't be embarassed by what your body looks like, your body is God's temple. It may need remodeling, but it is still God's home. Love your body. And take care of it.

There really are alot of good lessons about weight loss on the show. If you've never watched it before, check it out. It comes on on Tuesday nights at 8. I set my DVR to it and watch it on the weekends or while I'm cooking dinner. Still, no matter what you watch, I hope you end up being... The Biggest Loser.

Day 23: Workout Schedule

This is my workout schedule for February

This is it's new home.

My goal is everyday. But as you can see the Super Bowl foiled my plans earlier in the week. Still I have a 5 day a week minimum. Of course the excludes extreme illness and things of that nature. But you get my drift. I'm not just working out to maintain. I'm working out to make a change. (Cue the Michael Jackson: "I'm gonna make a change... for once in my life. It's gonna feel real good. Gonna make a difference. Gonna make it right...)

Day 22: Inspiration

Those who do not find time for exercise will have to find time for illness.

~Earl of Derby~

Learn to relax. Your body is precious, as it houses your mind and spirit. Inner peace begins with a relaxed body.

~Norman Vincent Peale~

Take care of your body with steadfast fidelity. The soul must see through these eyes alone, and if they are dim, the whole world is clouded.

~Goethe~

Our food should be our medicine and our medicine should be our food

~Hippocrates~ 

To lengthen thy Life, lessen thy meals.

~ Benjamin Franklin~

Day 20: Destinations

Lewis Carroll once said, “If you don't know where you are going, any road will get you there.”

It's a truly profound statement when you think about it.
Have you ever gotten in your car and just wanted to go somewhere, but you didn't know where? I have. And on the drive I took various turns, I back tracked. I ended up driving endlessly at times and in the end I headed back home. On the worst occasions I ended up lost and just had to drive west because I knew I would hit a main road. Still, other times I stumbled upon something interesting and worthwhile.
That's life without goals. Sometimes you end up in a rut, back tracking the things you've already done. Other times you continue following a path that is uneventful and at times harmful to your physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing, only to end up back where you started. There are phases where you are lost in your own skin and don't know what to do. It's only the rare occusions when you just happen to fall into good fortune as it seems that "fate" has smiled upon you.
Goal setting is all about determinig where you want to end up. Today I sat down and created my Goals list for 2011. Just click the tab at the top of my page labeled goals to take a look at where I'm headed.

Day 19: I'm going there!

Okay folks, it's nearing Valentine's Day and I feel the need (as a public service announcement) to remind everyone that exercise increases your libido. Yes, I said it... Exercise helps you to become ready, willing, and able for those intimate moments to come. How do I know? Well, I've been increasing my level of physical activity since last year March... A few things have changed. ;o)
1. Exercise increases your feel good horomones- And when you feel good... you are more likely to... you know.
2. Exercise increases blood flow- This increases your level of arousal and you are more likely to... you know
3. Exercise increases your endurance- And we all know... out of breathe and spent is not cute after 2 minutes of... you know
4. Plus as you exercise you will feel better about the way you look, so... you won't mind showing it off

If you don't believe me, try it yourself. I had to tell you a little bit before the big day because though some results are instant (ie. increased blood flow), others are not so rapid (ie. the endurance)

I had to blog about it cause it was on my mind. :) I LOOOVE the side effects of exercise.

Day 18: It shows!

So, once again I have begun to here a variety of comments about my weight loss. One teacher said, "Are you lossing weight? I thought you were before, but I can really see it now." Another couple of them asked how much I had lost so far. Still my favorite was... "Girl, you gone blow away in a minute." Now, that was far from the truth, but still flattering. I promise you this time last year no one would have said that. It's nice to know that someone's noticing (I mean my husband says I look good all the time, but he's supposed to).
So, though the scale is not moving at light speed, I can tell that my body is changing. And what is important is how you look and feel. Thanks for those of you who are reminding me that my work is paying off.

Day 17: Drink Water

One of the vivid memories I have from basic training was having to say, "DRRRINK WATER! Beat the heat, Drill Sergeant, beat the heat." Then we'd have to drink our canteen of water as fast as we could. Even worse, when they said, we had to hold the bottle upside down over our heads to ensure it was empty. :-p I promise you, I almost drowned on a couple of occasions. But... I guess my drills had a point. I was working out all day everyday and I needed to replenish what I had lost. And how a days I don't work out half as much, but I still need to replenish what is used on a daily basis. Drinking water has so many get fit benefits and the best one is weight loss. And more over... it's free.

Day 15: Renewed

We'll folks. I'll just have you know that my lack of weight loss this past week was not a disheartening event. Much to the contrary. It was one that made me say, "Hey, lady, what's going on? You've done so much on this journey. There's no time to sit still now. Get your butt in gear. Get that needle moving again... in the right direction." I'm more cautious about what I consume. I take more effort in the preparing and planning of meals and snacks AND MY WILL POWER... It's kicked into 3rd gear. I'm like, "No, no, no, you are not going to sabatoge me again this week. Fool me once, same on you... fool me twice... And it's an extra couple of inches around the mid section. So, if there is anything you can gather from this entry, it's that there is no need to beat yourself up for misteps. Use them to fuel your fire. Get out there and do something about it. Or like they used to say in the 80's "Bust a Move!"