"When you're with a friend, your heart has come home"

Today will be short because I need to spend some time with Ben.  The day started off pretty good, my neck  is getting better.  I went to class in the afternoon and learned how I can use the medicine ball my son got me.  My son Herbie, also a physical trainer, tried to show me how to use it, but I was just not ready.  Having all of this workout equipment laying around the house was a constant reminder of what he said I needed to do. Look at me now! I am proud to see that your business and clientele are exploding this year!  You will always be my favorite trainer!

A good friend of mine gave me a card today saying how proud she was of my weight loss and all of the hard work I am putting forth, and, even though we had not talked much lately, said she loved me.  Her support and understanding meant a lot. I love the quote on the inside of the card, which read, "When you're with a friend, your heart has come home" (the quote was also on a bookmark attached to the card's inside page).  The little Yorkie on the card looks just like my male Yorkie, London. Thanks Pam for these encouraging words! It made my day. I am so thankful for all of my family and friends who are continuing to push me and support me on my journey.  

Rainy Saturday

Well, as you know, I have a little neck injury.  I woke up this morning, early as always, but decided to lay in bed and listen to the rain and relax.  I did not feel guilty at all, mainly because I was in pain.   Finally I got up, ate breakfast, and popped a couple of Advil, hoping for relief.  By noon, I was ready for class.  I talked to the trainers and physical therapist (PT) in my class and they all agreed that I should put ice on it today, and follow with heat compresses tomorrow.   They were very helpful.  My team member, Julia, the physical therapist gave me a massage and showed me some gentle neck exercises.  I really appreciate her help!   After class, Julia, Charles and Kim stayed a little longer to discuss food and challenges.  We were all very encouraging to each other.  We are really becoming more cohesive  as team, looking out for one another.

Now today, I will share my pizza recipe.  Sorry I am a little late posting it.  I had to take a nap after an hour class and additional 1 hour on the elliptical.  My nap was a power hour.  Love it in the rain.

I showed this recipe to the nutritionist and got the ok.......My last one, the turkey chili, I might mention that you need to watch the sodium content in that recipe.  I use everything low sodium, even the chili mix.  We really watch our sodium intake because, as you know, it causes water retention.

You can vary this to your taste..... I use the following for making my favorite - pizza:

• You start off with Multi-Grain Sandwich Thins.  I use the ones made by Arnold Select (no high fructose corn syrup) and found them in the bakery section at Harris Teeter.  They are like a thin, flat mini-bun.  The whole bun is only a 100 calories.
• Then I add Bruschetta to the Sandwich Thins as a sauce.  I just use the store-brand, HT Traders Bruschetta.  Low in sodium and it has chunks of tomatoes (good antioxidants).  Less than 1g of sugar and only 25 calories
• Saute your veggies.  Green and red bell peppers, onions, garlic, and spinach in a tablespoon of olive oil.
• Brown some ground turkey.  Season to taste.  Be careful because the the veggies and olive oil give a lot of flavor
• Top it off with shredded mozzarella, made with skim milk 2%.  You may want to wait till the end to add your cheese.  I put more cheese for hubby (put less than the photo for less calories).  I used a very small amount of cheese on mine.
• Layer sauce, then meat, all of the veggies and bake in a 400 degree oven until the bread is crunchy (use a thin layer of sauce or it will make bread mushy).

Yummy!! Add a spinach salad and you got a meal.

Total calories: 300 according to sparkpeople.com calorie tracker.


Have a good weekend!!  I've got to go relax my neck, study, and get ready for tomorrow.  Aleve, anyone?

Keep Moving!

Today I woke up with a sore neck.  Not too good of a feeling.  I am going to have to have to get a free massage from Ben, but don't tell he is really bad at massages.  (I am laughing because he knew I would say that, I am sure he is reading this.)  I will have to check the gym and make an appointment for a real massage, which is avalible for all HCC members at a small fee.  I think I strained my neck doing sit-ups.  I may not have been breathing properly.  Hopefully this goes away soon.  As the night goes on, it seem to be getting better. 

Well my story tonight is about my friend Cynthia.  We grew up together on the same street since grade school, so we have been friends for 45 years.  She brought back some fine memories sending me a message on my blog.        ...A group of us in the neighborhood walked to a local swimming pool -- maybe a little over a mile away, one way.  We walked everyday, unless it was pouring down rain.  We would swim and play at least 4 hours, and then come home for dinner.  We were always greeted with good old homemade meals.  My mom had a vegetable garden in the back yard.  We also have grape vines, fruit trees and even rootbar.  We ate healthy and played outside from morning to dawn.  Those were the days when electronics and technology would not keep you in the house.  (Try telling these kids today to go outside and play.)  We were the total opposites of kids today.  We stomped and pouted when we had to come inside.  My friends it was the days of the Beatles, rock and roll, peace and love.  (We were young hippies without the drugs.)  I had a yellow bikini  that I loved.  In fact, I prided myself by keeping it and wearing it after having my children. 

It's good to look back and reflect on the good old days and try to bring some of those days back.  I am learning from our class on Thursday at HCC that we are made to keep moving.  Inactivity has been a major cause of many of our weight gains.  We stopped playing outside.  My goal is to think of a reason to do an outside, fun activity each week.  Walking to the gym at the Wellness Center or walking at a one of Charleston's beautiful parks or on the bridge.  It will be a my Zumba class this week.  I would love to take ballroom dancing once I can fit in my dresses.   I also would love to plant a little garden of veggies this spring.  Thank you Cynthia for reminding me about the good times (maybe not in a string bikini, though!) 

Tomorrow I'll be going to the Wellness Center in the afternoon for a class. (It's suppose to rain, so we are not walking the bridge this week.)  Hey want to have a healthy pizza tomorrow with me?  I have to share this recipe with you that I made up using the skills that I am learning...    ...so stay tuned.  I even took photo's of it.  I think I just realized that I'm a Rachel Ray wannabe.

Thursday Weight In Week 3

I know.  Today you want the results....  ....but before we go any further, I want you to know that I got on the scales today with a smile after that killer Joe D. Bands class, who decided to add the elliptical and bike routine.  There was a lot of high jumping, and Tracie and I did not want to risk hurting our knees.

Well, anyway.  Here you go......

Results:  Regina Powers  is #1, top female with 7.9% loss of weight.  Hazel Miranda is in second place with 6.8%.   First place: Kelly Frazier lost a total of 15.8 pounds so far.  Regina Powers 4th place with 14.4 total pounds loss. Yahoo!!  (and I am not talking about the website!)

Once again, I was very encouraged by our nutritional class.  We had a psychologist talk about emotional eating and, of course, I could not help but think of myself.  (The instructor had many other good points, but I really tuned into this.)  I already know I am emotional eater.  It's tough because life will always throw problems our way.  I am proud that this week during my "blue days", I ate Laughing Cow Cheese with 100% wheat bread as a snack (half-slice one little piece of cheese).  I wondered why they call it Laughing Cow Cheese?  I think it make me feel good eating something that is healthy for me.  Really.  It makes me feel good about making healthy choices.  In the past I would have eaten ice cream, or something else that was not any good for me.

Well.  Tomorrow, I have to tell you a story that involves my long life girl friend. What does it has to do with this journey?  Lots!  Wait till tomorrow.

In the meantime, check out our "momma of the program". (Janis Newton director of HCC in above photo)  She is a hero in my book.  I have to tell you Janis does not let us just sit the whole time in that meeting.  At different times of the class we have to stand up, sit down, stand up, sit down.  (More times than I am going to write.)  Just a little tip that helps me when I realize that I need to do the same thing at home when I have been sitting too long.  Keep moving!  Janis favorite quote is "walk by faith not by sight".  This quote can be used in many ways of life.   Good night to all- A good tired!


                                                                                                                    

Third Week Weigh- in!

Well, I've figured out that this program is also about self-discovery...   ...I find myself to still be a little competitive. (not good) I knew this was true when I was in high school when I was active in sports.  I can't remember when I was on a team other than work.  This is not always a good quality in my case, because I am really hard on myself.  I know that my diet is the best I have ever maintained for over 10 years, which is progress.  I am constantly thinking about everything I eat.  (Well, get to the point Gina!)   I am afraid of the weigh-in this week.  My WiiFit scale is not showing what I had hoped to see.  I have worked my butt off (no pun intended) and I don't see a big loss this week.  In fact I am thinking that it's just going to be about a pound.  Ok.  I tell myself that I have lost a total of about 30 pounds prior to this challenge and then, since starting HCC, almost 12 more pounds in the two weeks I've been enrolled in this program.  So I should be proud, right?  No, not good enough.  I beat myself up.  I've watched The Biggest Loser, as you know, for a while now, and those folks always have a small loss on week 3 every season so far in the show's history.  So I think in the back of my mind, that will be true for me too.  I know that sounds nutty, but TV can be a bad influence.


I also got a little blue this week because someone dear to my heart has cancer.  This also makes me feel guilty to even complain about my woes.

Soooo......

I go to my HCC tool box and read last week's skills I learned from the life coach (I take extensive notes every week).  Give myself a hug and love praise myself for working out 2 hours/day all week.  I've not only just taken off pounds but  also inches have fallen all off of this small framed body.  I'm also feeding my body the right foods.  I must realize that stress will only sabotage my weight loss.  So, like my hubby said, I'll just keep up the good work, stop worrying about the scales and have fun.  What good advice!  I am going to get better everyday.  Maybe not always 9 pounds at a time.  I think that will be my saying of the year -- 2010, Fit Just for Fun.

So off I go to "wash this grey right out of my hair" and get pampered by my hairdresser.  (She is such a positive person.)   I won't give up, and I will stay positive no matter what that scale says tomorrow.  I won't beat myself up today.  I will continue to learn......

Stay tuned for tomorrow's results.  I need your support.    

Ah Ha! moment

Week one:  HCC is an informational overload, but a honeymoon.
Week two: excited to see weight loss results

Week three:  weigh-in anxiety sets in and I'm scared of the scale.  The honeymoon is over.  The real work begins!

Hips Don't Lie! Shakira! Shakira!

I went to the group class at the wellness center today.  Something different.  The name of the class sounded interesting, so I thought I'd give it a try.  Zumba (A Sexy, Fierce Aerobics Class).  Ladies, if you want to get a good workout and have F-U-N at the same time, then this is the one!  We shake more hips and tummy than you want to know about!   They even passed out the (belly dance) skirts to a few members of the class. They don't know that I have one at home and it will be with me next week. (I forgot to tell you that I am a closet belly dancer.)  We danced to Shakira,  the Slum Dog Millionaire soundtrack,  Latin music and hip-hop, to name a few.   I love to dance!  I felt young again!  I felt happy!  Really happy!  Next week,  I will have the grey out of my hair and my skirt on.  Everyone says that I am looking younger.  My face has slimmed down a lot.  I  may even take a photo for you with me in my shirt. (photo of my skirt above).  I will be back to this class every Tuesday at 12 noon, so don't call or text me.  I will be DANCING!

Aquatics - I have gone two nights in a row and, I've got to tell you, we never stopped!  We don't have a single minute to spare or take a rest stop.  We just keep moving.  We run.  We jump.  We do lunges.  Our instructor, Marty, never stops.  He barks (literally).  He watches your posture and execution like a hawk.  He helps you if you are doing it wrong, and stands in front of you and shows you the correct form (in a friendly energized way).  Wow!  Other men and women seem to enjoy his class also.  It was bittersweet because I found myself thinking about the aquatic aerobics team I left in West Ashley when I enrolled in HCC.   I really miss them!  (At this moment, I am trying not to cry.)

Thank you to my mentor, Beth, who continues to support me on our non-team group workouts.  I know she enjoyed the class too.

Ah-Ha! Moment -- Exercise can be fun and work at the same time!  Stay tuned....

Monday Planks!!!!

Some days you have to push harder than others.  Today I had to push hard.  I guess I am just flat out tired from the weekend!  In spite of it, I did ran all of my laps today.  I even walked to the center today!  Laurie and Kim both noticed my running has improved (YEA!)  We did a plank holding contest - I was the last girl holding on and the only person that beat me was John.  I know you are saying yea yea yes....  but, they are tough to do.  These are a great exercises because they will strengthen your core, which will improve my running and everything else I have to do.  I am going to do them daily.


Now, I did not give you much to read so that you can go do this exercise and tell me what you think! Time yourself and do them as long as you can stand it.  Keep that bottom down (especially those of you who have more junk in the trunk, like me) and engage your core muscles. Tell me what you think about these and how long you did them.  Come on you can do them! Watch the video.  This will help. 
Working Your Core: How to Do the Plank

2 min 10 sec - Oct 19, 2009
www.youtube.com
 
Instead watching TV tonite this is what I opting for:
I am going to an aquatic class, with a focus on abs, at the wellness center tonight. (While in the HCC program we have free access to all fitness classes.)  I can't wait.  I love the water! When I gain weight it mainly went to my mid-section and hips.   Now, everything is starting to jiggle (you ladies know what I mean).

 I have to firm up because I have no plans for cosmetic surgeries.  By the way I sure miss my water aerobics group in West Ashley.   I will let you know how I like this aquatic class.

Sunday- Off To A Good Week!

Well, by now you probably know my routine as well as I do. Pretty simple, really.  I've got to work out everyday.  I have not eaten any white, processed, food (other that skim milk) since I signed my contract with HCC.  

I must say that I started off today in a much better mood than yesterday.   I woke up at  6 am and made my hubby a nice breakfast. ( I'm feeding him "healthy only" too.)  Ben has lost 10 pounds and really did not need that much of a weight loss.  I also prepared dinner last night so it would be ready when I got back from the Sunday group class.   I think my trainer-at-home's (Ben) pep talk helped me yesterday.

The class was fun today!  I am always excited to see what is next on our program.  We used the weight bar, stepper, and learned exercises we can do right at home.  I am getting stronger by the day.

If you are also on this journey, make sure you have supporters and positive people in your life.  I have cut off any negative talk and try my best to re-direct it to something positive.  I am happy to know that I am feeding my mind and body better foods, and making exercise a habit.  The support from every one of the staff involved with this program is outstanding.  I had gotten rid of a lot of garbage way before HCC, which triggered emotional eating.  I don't need anything to sabotage my progress.  I cleaned out the cupboard and "fridge" of any junk foods.  I also decided not to buy any more clothing in my current size.  I will treat myself when I get to my goal, and even then, I am dedicated to make these long life habits, as we are learning with the program

                        

Here is my constant supporter and best friend.  We have been married for 9 years, and our anniversary is Feb. 24th. (No red wine till then and we will celebrate with healthy food)

Ben has certainly fulfilled the vows we said in Vegas, especially the "In sickness and health" part. Now you are about to get the healthy Gina.  (MORE than half our marriage, I have been sick.) Thank you for all you do!  I love you!

Good News Before You Read Saturday's Blog

I just found out my blog is posted in the hospital's website!!!  What a honor!  Janis, thank you so much!  This has lifted my spirits, since I have been without work for a year now.  I am a Human Resource professional and felt lost without my job.  The HCC program has helped me rebuild more than just healthy habits, but also my people skills, by being on a team again!  Here is the link for those of you out of town:

http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/hsc/programs/healthycharlestonchallenge.html

 
See our rankings below:

Team Rankings
1. Charleston Moves
2. Boot Camp
3. MUSC Weight Mgmt.
4. Center for Thera. Mass.
5. Jason's Deli
6. Try Sports
7. St. Andrews Church
7. Joe D. Bands
8. Louie's Kids
8. Total Approach
9. Ovie Mughelli

Top 5 - Individual Weight Loss (lbs)
Female
1. Kelly Frazier 12.4lbs
2. Leslie Brady 12.2lbs
3. Regina Powers 11.8 lbs   (which is a little more than what I said in my blog)
4. L. Hays/Amy L. 10.6 lbs
5. Alison Bland 10 lbs

Male
1. Bobby Harrleson 23.4lbs
2. Stan Allison 17.4lbs
3. Robert Fraser 16.2lbs
4. Louis Kaufman 15.8lbs
5. Frank Kuchler 15.6lbs

Top 5 - Individual Weight Loss (%)
Female
1. Regina Powers 5.98%
2. Sydney Fowler 4.81%
3. Leslie Brady 4.7%
4. Amy L./Marion B. 4.27%
5. Alison Bland 4.26%

Bridge Practice

 Today I woke up a little cranky.  Mostly due to trying to keep up with everything.  I am working out 7 days a week, planning meals and thinking about this all day long -- the skills I am learning from HCC and how to put them to use.   Unlike the people on The Biggest Loser I still have to take care of my household and make time for my spiritual life.  I felt overwelmed this morning and just started fussing at the dogs, and fussing at my Ben, complaining about the stress from this program and my fatigue and constant soreness.  When my husband saw my mood, he said that "you have nothing to complain about missy!  Look at the people in Hatti that can't find family members...."  Boy, did that kick me back to reality and make me think outside of my "world".   At that moment, I realized how important balance is in my weight loss journey.  It made me think of ways I can help those poor people.  They need our help and they need our prayers.   I am so thankful for my husband's support.  He reads all my notes from HCC, and he knew it was time to help me stop any negative impulses and stay grounded.

So off to the bridge to meet Traci at 9:15 with a smile on my face from my morning pep talk. 
Today it was a little chilly on the bridge, but perfect for a run.  We did about 3 miles (you know the drill...   ...run/walk/run).   I enjoyed talking with Traci going back down the bridge, but as soon as we decided to take a break by walking and talking, here comes Laurie (our trainer)  cheering us on, "Come on!  Let's run this last few minutes!" as we were nearing the end.  So we did.  (When I grow up I want to be like her -- physically fit!!!).  Laurie's smile and motivation will light up a room.  I will have to post a happy, "non-drill-sergeant" photo of her. 

I especially enjoyed Laurie's boot camp group.  They came to help cheer us on.  Two of the ladies  from her boot camp stuck with me while trying to run up the incline of the bridge.  What a nice group of people.  I hope they come back next Saturday.  They really helped the morale of the group.
(They all have dogs on their t- shirt, and you know I love dogs.) I have to admit I miss seeing Janis out there with us.  I am sure she lives enough at the center that she needs to have a life too.   She has become like our ma-ma helping and guiding us along the way. 

Well, I could not post my video today of Laurie doing a burpee for you.  Looks like I am going to have to practice my videography skills.  I am sure we will be doing plenty of these.  To make it up to you I went back to the bridge to get this photo.   I must tell you that 4 years after leaving California,  I am really starting to like Charleston.   

Mama Needs A New Pair Of Shoes

After our weigh-in, Laurie had a very good pep talk, keeping things positive, but giving us a good kick in the pants - which is what we really needed!  As a team, we are in last place again this week, which is very tough on all of us.  Today, at our team workout, Laurie immediately said, "we are going to start off the day with a mile run!" And guess what!  I did.

I will tell you that I am doing more running than power walking than I did last week.  Laurie is keeping individual time records now, so I will give you those stats soon.

I got my new shoes today, at TRY SPORTS! in Mt. Pleasant because, more and more, I'm feeling as though it is the only way I could continue the running program.  My feet, shins and back were killing me.  Hopefully, the new shoes will help.  The staff at TRY SPORTS actually put their customers on a treadmill and watch you run.  It's a great place but once I got home and shopped around online, I found out that I can beat the price at Zappos or Amazon when it comes time for a new pair.  Anyway, I found out that I over-pronate when I run (which means that I use the inner edge of my foot when I stand, walk, or run) which (of course) requires a certain type of shoe.  I finally ended up buying the Mizuno Wave Nirvana 5.  They feel like I am running on air.   I wished I had them earlier in training, when we did the obstical course.

Laurie had us pull playing cards today, and that's how many reps we had to do when we ran to each square on a tennis court outside.  We did side planks.  We did push-ups, running from square to square doing the amount of reps, each time dictated by the face value of the card we drew.  (I got the highest number the first time 10, go figure....  Our last exercise sets were burpees.  Stay tuned for a video that illustrates that work out!  (Maybe tomorrow.  I have the bridge run again)

Yesterday, I promised you a treat!  I want you to take notice of what keeps me motivated.  What keeps me driven!  What makes me want to put everything healthy in my mouth and work my body to it's full potential!  So I can play, run and jump with them. (And give big hugs and kisses too)  

There is nothing like my beautiful grandchildren.  I will post Ben's and my children soon.  (My doggies are the Yorkies and the other little doggie is my granddog)

Scroll all the way down to see them all.

                                            

Second Weight In

I know ya'll don't want to hear about the workout today, but I must say that I love the Joe D Band Class (working out with rubber exercise bands)!   This week's nutritional class that Janis put together was the best!  We learned so much and I will share a few of my notes tomorrow.  We even had a life coach today tell us how to love ourselves; how to feed positive thinking everyday; how to give ourselves a "Whoo ha!!!" in the mirror.  Well, here is my "Whoo ha" to me today.....

Tonight's weigh-in - I lost 2.4 pounds this week.  That is a total of 11 pounds in two weeks!  That is more than 2 five-pound bags of sugar!  I can't begin to tell you how many inches that equals, but none of my large shirts are fitting me.   I  ranked 3rd place in total pounds lost and FIRST place in percentage of weight lost!  My total percentage of weight lost so far is 5.9%.  Wahoooo!  When it is all said and done, the contest of this program will be judged by the total percentage of weight lost.  At the end of this program, I am confident that  HCC will have taught me life changing habits and that, in itself, makes me a winner.  I am also excited for several of my team mates, especially Charles, because he really was sad about his performance last week - thought he let the team down. This week, I think he lost in the neighborhood of about 5 pounds.) Go Team Mughelli!

My friend Wendy suggested a great idea that I go shopping at "GW Fashion" (which is her cute way of saying Goodwill) until I am at my goal since she could actually see that my clothes are getting too big. (She does not know this, but I love shopping at Goodwill!)

More good news!  I've got to tell you that this morning I woke without any pain in my knees or hip joints -- and it was raining all day today, which is usually means disaster for my arthritis pain. I still can't believe how much working out is really helping, folks. Please get off the couch and do this with me!

Tomorrow I have a BIG surprise in my blog for you and I'm betting that you will love it...     ..so stay tuned. No hints. No clues. I am not going to tell you so don't call asking!

Wednesday's Workout

Today I was really tired after last night's spinning class!   I am walking like someone kicked me in the you-know-where!

Daily running is gradually becoming a part of my life.  We used weights to work our upper body today (the weakest part of my body).  I am starting to like it.  Tomorrow is the big weigh-in.   I already know it is not going to be big number that I had last week.   I generally lose more weight every other week.  We will see what the body says this time.  I was amazed when I tried on a medium Nike t-shirt today that I never could wear before.  I was wearing, 30 pounds ago, a 1X or XLarge shirt.  What an improvement!  This tell's me HCC is working for me!  You're getting me out of my "larges".

I am researching some running shoes.  My feet need more support.  I have these old Nike's, that I bought simply based on the cuteness factor.  Laurie suggested a few shoe upgrades to choose from.  I "Google'd" the top running shoes and here is what I found.  Check it out.  http://www.runnersworld.com or click on the shoe and it will take you to the website, or you can use the link below.......

Runner's World website/video

Monday Night Bridge Walk Run & Tuesday's Workout

Last night Ben and I walked a little over a half of hour up the incline on the bridge.  When I got to my goal point, I had to stop and reflect on the beautiful sunset before us.  I had to take a photo.  As some of you know, Ben was a photographer in the Navy and has had some of his pictures published in many magazines. He has been trying to teach me photography for awhile.  Please note that all photos are done by me on my blog, which is a good way to improve my technique. Believe me, he really critiques my work.  Now back to the bridge...   ...On the way back, I decided I would run for my team.  Yes, run.  And I would not stop till I got to the end of the bridge.  When I got to the end, I did my push ups and leg stretches on the bench.  Ben could hardly believe that I was actually running!  Catch me now.  Enjoy this sunset...

Today I met with one of our mentor Beth and went to spin class.  I am so happy to be sitting on a soft surface about now.  I loved it when the teacher says "Take it home!".  The first time I heard him say that, though, I thought he meant that we could go home, but I looked around and everyone just kept spinning standing up.  I am so proud of myself!  Yes, your 53 year old mama/grandma is spinning baby!!

As I get closer to this Thursday"s weight-in, I get nervous because I know that there's no way will it be 9.4 pound loss like last week.  So please know that your body does what it wants.  I have given it my all at every workout and I am eatting very healthly by following the lessons that I am learning in my nutrition class on Thursday.  For example, I went today to buy oats (the kind you have to cook longer), blueberries, and almonds.  (I learned from HCC not to eat but a few of the almonds at a time.)  I will let you know how I like it.  I am a little late writing because I am watching Biggest Loser.  I have one question for ya.  "Where is Gina?"

Monday- Hubby is home!

 Well I woke and found out the hubby did not have to work today because of Martin Luther King Day.   Sorry.  No sitting around sipping coffee with him this morning though.  I've got to get my workout early to do a warm-up for 30 minutes on the elliptical machine. (I know Tracie is always going to beat me to the gym.  Either a little competitor or just an early bird.)  I had a dream too that this is going to get easy one day!  This truly will be a life habit.

You know that our routines always start with cardio, so off to the track.  Run, run, run, stop, power walk, get my breath, run, run, run.  As you know, this is my biggest challenge.  The running.  I won't give up.  Laurie really pushed me on the track today. Charles you were smoking!  Kim, helping push me once again. On our last lap today, at the one mile mark, I heard Joe pass me say "Our father, who art in......".  I had to laugh because I know how it feels when you need a prayer to help you finish.  Laurie ran a marathon and made her fitness goal, and I was actually happy to see her sore along with us today. (just kidding.)  She said we really helped her achieve her goals.  We all clapped for her success and were all extremely proud of her.

We did free weights, the ball, and burppee's (not sure if this is how you spell this exercise, but I would like to rename them.  Who made that name up anyway?)   I feel like I am starting to know Laurie.  I knew we were going to have to do them. She said in her positive voice, you know like drill sergeant, "I am happy I get to do them today".  (She even had the army shirt on today.  I said to myself here we go!)  So we just learned an important mindset. We must learn to love this. This is what they are talking about.  Making life changes. We have to have a positive mindset!   I will have to get back to you when I discover that I love it, though.  I am working on that.  Someone said, "it's hot in here can we have the fans on?"  Well I know she might be reading my blog so I won't say what the answer to that request was. Just remember the word "sweat".   All I can say is that Laurie is one tough cookie. Opps I said cookie.  I LOVE and miss cookies.  (This is a bad word for us because sugar is our enemy!  Cookie=bad!) I was so proud of our team today because we were all in attendance!  Go Team Mughelli!!!

Stick around long enough and you just might run into Janis and get some advice on food choices.  I am going to (have to) try oatmeal.  I have not had oak meal since I was a kid in Ohio.  Mom made us eat it all the time.  Guess what!  Once again, mom was right.  I wish she could see me now.  She passed away a little over a year ago now, and I still hear her screaming at the top of her lungs, "Gina!" whenever I was in trouble or not listening.  I miss her so much.  I want to fit into one of her ballroom dresses and one day take  ballroom dance class.  I think her dresses are 7/8.  This was my size all the way up and into my 30's.  My forties...   ...well...  ...too long of a story.  No more excuses.  Tell me your dreams as far as HCC is concerned, because if we stick with the habits and life changes that we are developing, then our dreams will come true. Spend time talking to the mentors who have been successful.  So share your fitness dreams today in comments!

By the way, since hubby is off today for the holiday, we are going to walk on the bridge,. Yes me, no longer afraid!

I had some requests of a full picture of the bridge, which I will post later.

By the way, Laurie wants us to add on an half hour to our workout goal this week.  Thought I'd save the best for last...

Cycles and Balls

No rest for the weary.  And today, I was the weary.  Our class started at 2:30.  Today would be my first spin class! It was a challenge, but fun.  I also went to a circuit training class.  We did free weights, step aerobics,  then on to the exercise ball, non-stop.  I need to work on some of the exercise ball routines.  I have one that used to sit pretty in my corner, but now I am actually using it.  My son Herb is a trainer and he made me buy it when he visited last year from Cali.  He you would be so proud of me if he could see mom now!  Look out!  You can find them at Walmart, Marshall's or TJ Maxx for very reasonable.  By the way after my workout I was no longer weary! 


Watch this youtube video to get some killer abs by the summer! Let do this.....

3 Core Stability Ball Exercises 6 min - May 7, 2008 www.youtube.com

Bridge Run Practice

This morning I woke up with this unmentionable pain, well, I'll tell you,. in my groin.  I thought to myself, "my hubby is not going to be happy about this one".  I thought I had damaged something...    ...down there and,, much to my surprise (and relief), I met one of my team members this morning and the first thing she asked was "are you hurting...    ...here" as she pointed to her...   ...(you-know-where region)..., and we both laughed and I shrieked "Me too!".   Somehow, I felt better knowing that it was just a muscle we apparently don't use as much as we thought!  (I know, TMI!  TMI!)  After running and squatting with 15-20 pound weights, what did we expect?  As a matter of fact, I found out, as we started to gather into a group and share our war stories, that we were sore!  Our team is really developing a good feeling of camaraderie with a common heartbeat.  This is what a program like this brings.

Almost everyone in from our team was at our first bridge practice.  I could not sleep the night before because I have a horrible fear of height.  Acrophobia.  Healthy Charleston is going to help me overcome this because there is no way I am going to let that fear keep me from doing this or fail to support my team.  Especially being recently named the captain of the team.  So, off I went.  Onward and upward.  And guess what -- I could not believe how beautiful it is on the bridge!  This is why I moved from California to Charleston.  What a beautiful place we live, and so often taken for granted.

I paired up with Charles and started walking.  "If you can talk,you aren't working hard enough!"   We kept hearing Janis' voice in the near distance.  Even so, I guess we cheated a little by sharing things about our struggles with weight and life in general.  That is when I learned Charles' little grand-baby suffers from cancerous tumors all over his little body.  Internally, including the brain.  Having gone through a lot of medical issues, I listened intently to every word and understood he needed our prayers and support.  What a great opportunity this experience is is providing by allowing me to go outside my own world and find out what others are going through.

Charles was really helping me by sticking with me, since I can't keep up with some on our team. I got more than a workout and felt so good when I made our goal of an hour on the bridge.  Most of the time we were not able to talk though (just in case Janis reads this).  And, speaking of Janis, we also were able to talk briefly to Janis.  What a nice person!  And truly dedicated to this program.  She sets the pace and the example by being out there with us every step of the way.  Remember I said earlier that just when you think you are done with a workout with Healthy Charleston, you're not.  We get to the end, leaving the bridge, and Janis tells us, "Push-ups on the benches and stretches!"  My mind was just anticipating how good it was going to feel to sit down.  Then the rain  started.  What a wonderful way to end the workout!  Believe it or not, I did not care about my hair at that moment, which, in my culture, is a big no no. Black hair and rain?  Even Oprah would have to agree...     ....Oh!  No!  But not today.  It did not seem to matter. What a great way to start your morning!  I overcame my fear, we shared stories and we are getting stronger.

Check out our bridge,

and a couple of bonus pictures. (If you notice that the pictures are a little blurry, it's because I was always moving.  (in case Janis is still reading.)

Want to curl up to a nice bowl of Turkey Chili this weekend? Try this delicious Weight Watcher's recipe.  I could not find calorie count, so I just listed every ingredient on our tracking system.  Enjoy!

10 ounces extra-lean ground turkey breast
1 medium onion, diced
2-3 cloves of garlic, diced
1 (28-oz) can diced tomatoes
1 can tomato sauce
1 can (4oz.) green diced Ortegas
2 medium zucchini, diced
2 medium yellow squash diced
1 (15 oz) can black beans
1 (15-oz) can fat-free, reduced-sodium beef broth
2 celery stalks, diced
2 green bell peppers, diced
1 package dry chili seasonings.

Spray a large nonstick pot with nonstick spray and set over medium-high heat. Add the turkey, garlic, and onion and sauté until browned.
Transfer the browned turkey and onion mixture to a large soup pot and add the tomatoes, tomato sauce, zucchini, squash, green Ortegas, beans, broth, celery, bell peppers, and chili seasoning. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes
 

Friday Workout

Reality is setting in.  I still must keep this momentum up!  It was nice getting a lot of accolades, but I realize I have a lot of work ahead.  Like the old saying goes " It's not over till the fat lady sings!"  The one thing I can tell you is that I am not going to be that fat lady standing.  I've never liked the word "fat".  I think it's a mean way to describe someone.

I knew our workout would be rough today.  We went up to the roof today and ran.  Outside. With sand bags on our shoulders!  Yes, sprinting.  I felt my hip hurting, but I would not give up!  Laurie shortened the run for some of  us at times.  :)  Just a little chilly, but it was nice to feel fresh air in the lungs, and we got a dose of Vitamin D.   I was so proud of Charles who really put forth a lot of effort in his run!   Everyone was fighting for us to be #1 team next week.  Go Team Mughelli!!!

Our Trainer Laurie

Laurie gathered us all around and announced that I would be the the team captain, because she could tell that I was totally committed - heart and soul.  What a honor!  Kim ( in the green jacket below) was appointed the co-captain, because she is such a great athletic member of team and very supportive of others' success.  I loved the fact that Laurie gave a pep talk to our team for everyone not to give up, even if they had no weight loss last week, but to celebrate being at the workouts and putting forth  the efforts.  Laurie is so encouraging!  You can tell that Laurie really cares about us.  She wants us to succeed  and work to our full potential, while at the same time realizing that we all have different levels of fitness.  What a challenge for her as a trainer.  I know she hates to see me hurting or someone really struggling.  She knows when enough is enough, and recognizes that little sign when we are breathing hard and cannot go any further.  She will push you hard as you possibly can go.  Just when you think you are done, but not really.

Everyone is excited.  Tomorrow is going to be our first (Cooper River) bridge run practice session at 9:15 am.  As a part of the Healthy Challenge, we are obligated to sign up to do the the actualCharleston Cooper River Bridge Run.  A 10K run held annually.  Oh boy!

Well here is the promised photo of our team (one person is missing).  Enjoy!  Check out our trainer (Above) Laurie.  She one strong lady!  Don't mess with her.  She is FIERCE!  Don't tell the men, but I think she could kick their butts too.  And I think they know it.

                                                                  Team Mughelli

First Results Weigh In!!!

Well family and friends....    ...guess what!

I lost 9.4 pounds in one week!   I was the "Biggest Loser" for the 1st week of the competition in TWO CATEGORIES:  actual weight lost AND percentage of weight lost!  Yes!!!  Two categories!!  I have lost 4.76% of bodyfat in one week with the Healthy Charleston Challenge.   I am so excited!  As a team member,  I was a little sad because several of my teammates did not have a weight loss this week.  I think that next week will be better for them.   I hope I will be able to encourage them in anyway I can, because some of them were a little down.   So it was a bittersweet victory for me because they really encouraged me during the workouts.  At the end of the contest, we will have a Female Biggest Loser, a Male Biggest Loser and the top team Biggest Loser.  We have to keep in mind that there will never be an end to this.  We must all keep moving and making this a lifestyle change!  I want us all to win!  I promise I will keep working even harder the rest of the week. 

One great compliment was from Laurie my trainer who said "Gina I am proud of you girl". Now she knows her killer workouts were not in vain.  A male on one of the other teams said " Hey congratulation on your baby" I look at him puzzled and he said you loss a baby at 9.6!  What a compliment from a competitor.  The confidence I am gaining will help me along the way.  Yes, I can do this!!

Before the weigh-in, I attended "Joe's Band Class",  or at least I think that's the name of it.  Wow!  The things you can do with those giant rubber bands people!  He had the nerve to tell us to put a stamp on our butts and mail it.  I thought to myself "Oh no!  He did not just say that!"  It was funny because some of us needed to get our butts moving before weigh-in.  Fun class, though.  I actually might start to like working out.  I even walked to class, which is a about a mile from my front door.  (Piece of cake after all the running we did this week.)

Tomorrow's workout is going to be outside!!  I think our trainer is going to really push us tomorrow.  Stay tuned tomorrow for a great recipe.   I am going to take a team picture tomorrow since several had to leave before our nutritional class was over. By the way, Janis, our program director, said that, as a whole, we lost more weight than any group they have had in the past.  Total weight lost was 423 pounds.  Go HCC!

Please post a comment and cheer me on!!  Don't forget to follow me to the left of the page. If you like to read the detail newsletter from the hospital with who I am up against please click on link.  

MUSC Newsletter article link

Ah Ha! Moment

I found out that a good night's rest is really required on this journey.

Stay Tuned

Today I actually lifted weights!  I am tired!  I am sore!!  I am going to bed!!!

Stay tuned tomorrow for the weigh-in results!

Tuesday Is TV Biggest Loser Nite

I cannot tell you how much I love the reality show The Biggest Loser. Tonite I will watch it with a different attitude.  A friend and I call each other during the commercial.  It's almost like a football game to us.  The only difference is that I save my fruit snack for the show and I am not having my Pinot or junk food.  It's mind over matter.  I am actually starting to like my healthy foods.  I am proud to say that I went to the non-manditory exercise class tonite.  I was the only one from my team to show up, so I had a one of our trainers Whitney and mentor helping me. I found out that my trainer's little mid-section bump was not from weight gain, but a little baby boy on his way, in just 3 more months. She looks great because she still does moderate workouts.  Tonight, running was a little easier on my hip. We lifted weights and the used the medicine ball in between laps.  If you ever watched The Biggest Loser then you know that the routine includes a "last minute workout" the night before the weekly weigh.  And it's going to be a killer workout.  I'm almost afraid of tomorrow, our own "last minute workout"..  So I did get a jump start tonight.  Here are a few free goodies for all of you who are on this journey with me. Click on links below. For those of you in Charleston, it is worth the money to join this program.  The prizes at the end are great, but your life is worth so much more.  I will be sharing more as we go along.  Stay tuned for Thursday's weigh-in and photo's of my team. (After 8:00pm)

http://www.sparkpeople.com/

My favorite.  You can log everything that you eat and get learn the calorie count. It will tell you how many calories you should eat daily. It is proven that if you track your food, you will succeed.

http://wwwwebmd.com/diet/healthtool-portion-size-plate

I brought myself a colorful, pretty, little plate!  The size of a dessert plate.  That keeps me honest.

http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/portion_size.html

http://hp2010.nhlbihin.net/portion/

Post your comments! Please become one of my followers. (Left of page)

Monday Workout

Well, what a way to start a Monday.  I'm actually happy to be in the mindset that working out daily is a must.  I was eager to see my team members, as I suddenly feel they are like a life support system and are people who I already care about.  We are all fighting to get healthy and to get weight off.   Laurie, our trainer, had us run stairs and I have to admit, I almost started to cry when she announced the workout plan.  I have a foot that does not always want to move the way I want it to go. When I had my brain surgery, I lost some feeling in my left foot (feels like a sleepy foot)   I am not complaining because I had the top surgeon in Los Angeles, CA at Cedars Sinai Hospital. (You may have seen him on Oprah, Dr. Keith Black.)  He is the best neurosurgeon you will ever find.   This is NOT going to get in my way!   I looked down at my Nike's and said "Just do it!"   Guess what!  I did it!  It was a struggle.  We had to do running in between, which I modified when I could not fully run , then push ups, and host of other killer exercises.   At the end I cried quietly, hoping no one could see my tears.  My trainer Laurie, her assistant Whitney, and my team members came back to get me when  I was behind. They really wanted me to make my fitness goals for the day. Thanks so much team.  I really think I would have quit without them.  They may not know I am running for my life.  I think they are also.  See how far I have come.  Check out the photo below of my neurosurgeon  Dr. Black and me after my 10 hour brain surgery.   Dr. Black, if you are listening, thank you for the care you have given me, I can't say it enough.   Thank you Ben (hubby), and Tiffanie(daughter) for being there when I woke up and could say your name for the first time.(Something I was so worried I would not be able to do)   Ben and Tiff were the loving caretakers. Thank you to my children who supported me in their own ways.  Nicole the oldest daughter is a nurse, which was nice, especially when I did not understand something medically. She just had twins about a year earlier.  My little grandsons (Amari and Amir) and my first born granddaughter Ajanea kept me fighting.  Summer, the youngest, was never short of encouraging words and has such a big heart.  (I think she had the hardest time seeing me go through this.)  Her daughter, Soliel, also kept me fighting.  Since then Summer has blessed me with two more grandchildren. (Noey and Ian.)  My son Herbie, his hug was like medicine; he had no problem crawling in my bed beside me.  Gina, you have come a long way baby because of all of them!  This is why I write.  To strengthen some skills I feel I have lost and to look back on my progress.

  Tips for the day:  on the Today show this morning, they said blogging was one of the top goals for 2010 and exercise fights cancer.  Share your thoughts or tips on my blog.  I would love to hear from you.

My all time highest weight was 225! When I look at these photos I smile! Starting at the left is me in a t-shirt I brought to keep myself positive. (One of my favorite quotes.)  Middle photo- is my first outing after a 3.5 month stay in the hospital. 

Far right I am going home!  Last photo is Dr. Black and my favorite nurse. I can't believe I am 

running now!!! 

                                                       

Posted by Gina's Weight Journey at 8:18 PM 3 comments  Links to this post

Labels: brain sugery, cedars sinai, Dr. Keith Black, Los Angeles,meningioma

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