I know you are all looking forward to hearing the weigh-in results .....well after going back and looking over previous food-logs, examining them closely, and increasing my work out it, it was a great week. I am very proud because it was my idea to examine my food-logs and see what worked for me in the past weeks. (HCC , I love this food tracking. It works!) I also schedule everything from my bible work, time with family, housework, grocery shopping. I even cooked several meals on Sunday.
My total weight loss today was FOUR POUNDS, which put me back in FIRST PLACE!!!! That is close to 17 pounds (I may be a little off, I'll double check) with HCC and 47 total on my journey. I am getting my life back! Thank you for all of your support this week!
Stay tuned tomorrow for photos and much more!! I am very tired tonight.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Wednesday Reflections
Thanks you for your concerns regarding Ben's car accident. He is a pretty tough man. The doctor said that he has mild whiplash and he is to take Ibuprofen. This is pretty common when someone hits you from behind. He appreciates all of your concerns.
Today's team work out was great. I would have done burpee's if asked... hey, she did not ask today. Ran laps and did our circuit type training non-stop. Good last group workout before weigh-in. Each week I can feel the changes. Patience is very much needed in this process. Something I have to work on at times. After class we all stuck around for Kim to weigh-in since she is going on my favorite type of trip, a cruise. She weighs-in today since she won't be here tomorrow. She came out and said "just a pound", but, hey a pound is everything! In fact, I said, "just think of how your body is changing on the inside". Kim always works hard at the workouts. Now, I can't wait till weigh-in. Yes! I said it! I refuse to let the scales put me is a tizzy again.
I am looking forward to having one glass of wine for my anniversary, which is February 24th. I would like to go out for dinner because I can now make healthy choices. I have not had one glass of wine since starting HCC. When I found out that there are 200 calories in a half of glass of wine, I said to myself I rather be chewing on something for that many calories. Any suggestions for places to go in Charleston for dinner? We love seafood (baked, not fried).
I think back on how my life was about 4 months ago when I started my journey. I was afraid to push my body because of having had a brain tumor, poor mobility and now having Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). I have had no pain lately from AS. In fact, my mobility has greatly improved. I have not broke a bone or needed the gym defibrillators. I am not starving myself, just eating healthy. I would like to thank both Dr. Kim Davis, my MUSC internist, and Dr. Daniel, my rheumatologist, also MUSC, for such great care. They are going to be shocked when they see how well I am doing. You could not find any finer doctors then these two. Dr. Davis made Doctor of the Year 2009. Well deserved. She is such a kind and very knowledgeable health professional. She is a mother and a real person and treats me like a person, not another patient. Dr. Daniel was not my best friend at first, somewhat intimidating because of wanting me to try this injectable drug to slow the progression of my disease at my first meeting with him. (Humira), but I decided not to take this drug mainly due to the side effects. My choice to follow an alternative path that I read about which included a change of diet and exercise. I had read many cases of people with AS changing the progression of the disease just from a change to their diet and exercise. This is an auto-immune and inflammatory disease which researchers have discovered that, (guess what) some foods are not good for you and may spark flare-ups of the symptoms..... a list which includes all of the "white" foods. This is something we are encouraged to avoid by our food counselors at HCC. When Dr. Daniel saw me after starting the swim aerobics, he was not in as much of a hurry to push me to take the Humira. In fact, I told him I wanted to do the HCC program and he was very, very supportive. He did not doubt my motivation and drive and seem to be impressed. Let's see what he says now. I really respect him as a doctor now because he has not fought me on what I decided to do with my body, despite his advice to the contrary. Now that is a good doctor. Friends, it's your body. Do not be afraid to question things, do your research, and go with what you feel will give you the best quality of life. Yes, I could end up in a wheelchair or the iritis I have had in the past, a symptom also related to the AS diagnosis, could cause blindness, but guess what, I am not sitting around waiting for that to happen!
Since so many have asked me what is this, please follow the link below for more information. http://www.spondylitis.org/
Today's team work out was great. I would have done burpee's if asked... hey, she did not ask today. Ran laps and did our circuit type training non-stop. Good last group workout before weigh-in. Each week I can feel the changes. Patience is very much needed in this process. Something I have to work on at times. After class we all stuck around for Kim to weigh-in since she is going on my favorite type of trip, a cruise. She weighs-in today since she won't be here tomorrow. She came out and said "just a pound", but, hey a pound is everything! In fact, I said, "just think of how your body is changing on the inside". Kim always works hard at the workouts. Now, I can't wait till weigh-in. Yes! I said it! I refuse to let the scales put me is a tizzy again.
I am looking forward to having one glass of wine for my anniversary, which is February 24th. I would like to go out for dinner because I can now make healthy choices. I have not had one glass of wine since starting HCC. When I found out that there are 200 calories in a half of glass of wine, I said to myself I rather be chewing on something for that many calories. Any suggestions for places to go in Charleston for dinner? We love seafood (baked, not fried).
I think back on how my life was about 4 months ago when I started my journey. I was afraid to push my body because of having had a brain tumor, poor mobility and now having Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). I have had no pain lately from AS. In fact, my mobility has greatly improved. I have not broke a bone or needed the gym defibrillators. I am not starving myself, just eating healthy. I would like to thank both Dr. Kim Davis, my MUSC internist, and Dr. Daniel, my rheumatologist, also MUSC, for such great care. They are going to be shocked when they see how well I am doing. You could not find any finer doctors then these two. Dr. Davis made Doctor of the Year 2009. Well deserved. She is such a kind and very knowledgeable health professional. She is a mother and a real person and treats me like a person, not another patient. Dr. Daniel was not my best friend at first, somewhat intimidating because of wanting me to try this injectable drug to slow the progression of my disease at my first meeting with him. (Humira), but I decided not to take this drug mainly due to the side effects. My choice to follow an alternative path that I read about which included a change of diet and exercise. I had read many cases of people with AS changing the progression of the disease just from a change to their diet and exercise. This is an auto-immune and inflammatory disease which researchers have discovered that, (guess what) some foods are not good for you and may spark flare-ups of the symptoms..... a list which includes all of the "white" foods. This is something we are encouraged to avoid by our food counselors at HCC. When Dr. Daniel saw me after starting the swim aerobics, he was not in as much of a hurry to push me to take the Humira. In fact, I told him I wanted to do the HCC program and he was very, very supportive. He did not doubt my motivation and drive and seem to be impressed. Let's see what he says now. I really respect him as a doctor now because he has not fought me on what I decided to do with my body, despite his advice to the contrary. Now that is a good doctor. Friends, it's your body. Do not be afraid to question things, do your research, and go with what you feel will give you the best quality of life. Yes, I could end up in a wheelchair or the iritis I have had in the past, a symptom also related to the AS diagnosis, could cause blindness, but guess what, I am not sitting around waiting for that to happen!
Since so many have asked me what is this, please follow the link below for more information. http://www.spondylitis.org/
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Epiphany Tuesday
Today I had an epiphany!! Last night my husband came to pick me up at the Wellness Center since I walked to the workout earlier in the day. He came in to the center to meet me, which I thought that was strange. He usually doesn't come in, but today he was waiting in the lobby. I knew something was wrong He said, "I did not want you to go out and see your car because a lady hit me from behind while I was waiting at a stoplight". He proudly said she was cited. The first thing I asked CALMLY was, "Are you ok?" Ben is a very calm person and simply responded with "I'm fine." I could tell he was not fully telling the truth because of the way he was holding his head (whiplash-like). Then he said that our car's bumper was pushed in and he began showing me the photos of this three car accident and at the same time wondering why I was not (over) reacting. Here is the epiphany.....I realized that I did not get upset. I stayed calm. My husband was shocked! Normally, I would have reacted either with tears or anxiety -- over the top. Yes, exercise helps with handling stress. The car did not matter, just a material thing, my husband is mildly hurt and I am feeling the best I have in years!!! What more could I ask for. You cannot put a price tag on LIFE and HEALTH!!!! What a great benefit of exercise. This, as I told you before, is my new pill! It is my medicine to fight anxiety, stress and depression. Now that's an epiphany!!
Classes today were Marty's swim aerobics and afternoon with Zumba. What a good workout day! I am getting to know the instructors of the classes and learning so much by talking to them. I am ready for our team workout tomorrow and I will do burpee's without compliant. I promise!
I am sorry can't keep writing. I am loving The Biggest Loser today. I can't type and talk!
By the way Ben has an appointment for his neck tomorrow. ( just a little sore) It's hard to get a man to go to the ER....
Classes today were Marty's swim aerobics and afternoon with Zumba. What a good workout day! I am getting to know the instructors of the classes and learning so much by talking to them. I am ready for our team workout tomorrow and I will do burpee's without compliant. I promise!
I am sorry can't keep writing. I am loving The Biggest Loser today. I can't type and talk!
By the way Ben has an appointment for his neck tomorrow. ( just a little sore) It's hard to get a man to go to the ER....
Monday, February 8, 2010
Mondays Burpee's
Today I had a Big Attitude because I did not feel like doing burpees. My left knee was hurting, so I was not up to it. In fact, they put me in such a bad mood that I tried to argue my way out of the last set. Laurie said I could modify them, or just do something else. I didn't want to let myself down, so I did them, but my attitude lingered. I tried to rid myself of this during my run, and it made me run faster. I tried to get rid of it during the rowing machine, and it made me row faster. Yes, a little attitude does not hurt, I learned today, and it may also may make you work harder. Laurie noticed that I was not exactly what you would describe as happy to do her favorite exercise, and I explained that while I do love her, I won't like her everyday. I didn't want to admit it or let her know at the time, but I am happy she pushes me. I fear her reading this because I know she will push me even harder. At any moment in time, you may not like your trainer, but the results, at the end, are worth it. So today, I had to put my big girl panties on and just do it! (Speaking of panties, sorry if I embarrassed you, but I need some new ones since losing weight. I better put that on my list. I know, TMI, but I could not resist.) Maybe that will be a treat this week. I try to think of non-food treats when I reach my goals.
Beth is one of my mentors. She emailed me this morning, saying that she will meet me for swim aerobics. I was happy to have a partner. It always helps. I decided today that I am going to stay a little longer at class and not only attend the class, but hang out in the sauna and relax. I am always running home to fix dinner. Today I have all kinds of leftovers nicely stacked in the 'fridge and so I can let hubby take care of himself by simply clicking the microwave buttons to heat it up. Our families can survive without us a night or two.
I must say congratulations to my son, who completed a marathon in LA on Sunday! I will be doing the 10K bridge run in another month. Cheer me on!
Beth is one of my mentors. She emailed me this morning, saying that she will meet me for swim aerobics. I was happy to have a partner. It always helps. I decided today that I am going to stay a little longer at class and not only attend the class, but hang out in the sauna and relax. I am always running home to fix dinner. Today I have all kinds of leftovers nicely stacked in the 'fridge and so I can let hubby take care of himself by simply clicking the microwave buttons to heat it up. Our families can survive without us a night or two.
I must say congratulations to my son, who completed a marathon in LA on Sunday! I will be doing the 10K bridge run in another month. Cheer me on!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Super Bowl
The only time l'll sit around and want to watch a game of any kind on TV is the Super Bowl. I like the commercials (oh, no I dont like the beer commercials, because I would rather have wine) and the half-time entertainment. The food used to be a big hit with me. I could have gone to a party tonight, but I opted to eat my healthy treats tonight and stay home. No regrets here! My friend was nice enough to tell me her menu, which was more fat and sugar than I want to talk about. We have learned how to say "NO" at one of our meetings, so I thought I'd put it in practice. My friend understands and was really trying to be supportive of my new life. I am sure that soon I will be able to join a party such as this, but I rather wait till I am stronger at saying "no". So Home it is! My home is a cozy older historical Charleston home. My decor definitly fits my personality. I love vintage, and the cottage-feel type home. Somewhat eclectic. I can't wait to update my kitchen, which it is my next project. I have the fireplace on, and a candle burning with a nice cranberry scent. It makes me appreciate the simpler things in life.
At Thursday night's HCC meeting, they talked about sweet potato fries, baked in the oven. I am more of a California girl -- eating sushi and sipping plum wine. So, for me this truly is lifestyle change. I thought I'd give this healthy southern dish a try. I got the receipe from Oprah.com (see the link below). They are cooking as we speak, so I will have to let you know how they come out.
They are really good! I dipped them in Fage, which is a brand ofI plain greek yogurt that is really good for you and great for dipping or toppings. (a tip from HCC) I made blackbean soup for dinner and topped it with this yogart in stead of using sour cream. I also topped my black beans with this topping, green, red, and yellow bell peppers, onions, garlic and lime juice squeeze over them. I also sauteed the vegetables in a tablespoon of olive oil.
I went to the Sunday's group HCC class. Guess what! It was Zumba! My favorite! I dashed in to the bath to take off my heels, stockings, and dress from my morning spiritual food into my Wellness Center "uniform" (you know that's what I call my workout gear since I am in them often). This Zumba class was fun because, unlike the one during the week, we had men in the class. Don't tell the men, but it was hilarious to see them trying to dance and keep up. (I give them a lot of credit for being brave enough to attend). The instructor was also a guy, but no doubt, he is a true dancer. He had us do a dance for the people in Haiti. I could look around and tell everyone was into this dance -- every movement, every step. It was an African dance, where you almost feel like you could fly. It did make me think of the hard times they are enduring in Haiti. My heartfelt prayers go out to them.
This was a great day! I fit everything in my schedule and I feel great! Home sweet home!
GO SAINTS!!!!!!
http://www.oprah.com/food/Spiced-Up-Sweet-Potato-Fries
At Thursday night's HCC meeting, they talked about sweet potato fries, baked in the oven. I am more of a California girl -- eating sushi and sipping plum wine. So, for me this truly is lifestyle change. I thought I'd give this healthy southern dish a try. I got the receipe from Oprah.com (see the link below). They are cooking as we speak, so I will have to let you know how they come out.
They are really good! I dipped them in Fage, which is a brand ofI plain greek yogurt that is really good for you and great for dipping or toppings. (a tip from HCC) I made blackbean soup for dinner and topped it with this yogart in stead of using sour cream. I also topped my black beans with this topping, green, red, and yellow bell peppers, onions, garlic and lime juice squeeze over them. I also sauteed the vegetables in a tablespoon of olive oil.
I went to the Sunday's group HCC class. Guess what! It was Zumba! My favorite! I dashed in to the bath to take off my heels, stockings, and dress from my morning spiritual food into my Wellness Center "uniform" (you know that's what I call my workout gear since I am in them often). This Zumba class was fun because, unlike the one during the week, we had men in the class. Don't tell the men, but it was hilarious to see them trying to dance and keep up. (I give them a lot of credit for being brave enough to attend). The instructor was also a guy, but no doubt, he is a true dancer. He had us do a dance for the people in Haiti. I could look around and tell everyone was into this dance -- every movement, every step. It was an African dance, where you almost feel like you could fly. It did make me think of the hard times they are enduring in Haiti. My heartfelt prayers go out to them.
This was a great day! I fit everything in my schedule and I feel great! Home sweet home!
GO SAINTS!!!!!!
http://www.oprah.com/food/Spiced-Up-Sweet-Potato-Fries
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Friday/Saturday
Wondering where I was at last night? Well, I'm trying to keep balanced. Spent time with hubby. Trying to put down the technical gadgets, including my Blackberry. Dinner and movie. Don't worry about the dinner, though... I made a wheat pasta with GARLIC, shirmp, and veggies. It was yummy, if I must say so myself. By the way, Harris Tetter-brand wheat noodles are good. Ben did not even notice the change till I told him.
Friday's workout was one of our best. We rotated to a station, worked out on that piece of equipment while one member of the team ran laps. The team kept moving from one station to another as one person took their turn running. I felt sorry for my team when I ran because I am a little slower than them, however I did beat my time on the last lap. I loved it. Laurie really knows how to push you to your max by doing your most challenging exercises with you. I appreciate this kind of motivation.
Saturday is here and today I went to the 12:00 o'clock class instead of the bridge run because of pending rain in the forecast. This class was a perfect fit for my schedule because it allows me to meet in with my bible study group in the morning beforehand. I was able to fulfill all my needs and committments in one day. The aerobic class was fun. I had to jump rope, which brought back memories of the the 60's. Remember that Sharon and Cynthia?
I have Ben's favorite rainy day meal cooking on the stove -- some split pea soup, but no ham. (homemade) I have to go check on it. See 'ya!
Friday's workout was one of our best. We rotated to a station, worked out on that piece of equipment while one member of the team ran laps. The team kept moving from one station to another as one person took their turn running. I felt sorry for my team when I ran because I am a little slower than them, however I did beat my time on the last lap. I loved it. Laurie really knows how to push you to your max by doing your most challenging exercises with you. I appreciate this kind of motivation.
Saturday is here and today I went to the 12:00 o'clock class instead of the bridge run because of pending rain in the forecast. This class was a perfect fit for my schedule because it allows me to meet in with my bible study group in the morning beforehand. I was able to fulfill all my needs and committments in one day. The aerobic class was fun. I had to jump rope, which brought back memories of the the 60's. Remember that Sharon and Cynthia?
I have Ben's favorite rainy day meal cooking on the stove -- some split pea soup, but no ham. (homemade) I have to go check on it. See 'ya!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Fourth Weigh-In
Ok. I know you want me to cut to the chase. I did not lose a pound this week. I stayed the same. I am not upset. At first, I was a little upset, given I worked out twice a day this week, and have been following the rules of healthy eating per HCC. Can you believe that I had my poor student weigh me twice? The second time because I had on a pair of wet socks the first time, and blamed them for my zero loss. She probally got a little worried about my mental state at that moment. She patienly said " go ahead Regina", with a comforting smile. Needless to say, the number did not change sans sox. Man, I even worked out before the weigh in. Then I ran into Janis who greeted me with a nice hug. She sent me an email earlier today full of such good encouragement and commendation. We are so dependent on her for advice that I immediately told her I did not lose this week. She said we are building muscle mass at this stage of the game and she is happy to hear this is happening (and I know this is important, especially given my age 53ish). Wow, my attitude took a different spin, because I am seeing results, feeling results! I am fitting into smaller clothes, but, most of all, I FEEL GREAT! I can walk further, I can run, I can jump and I feel strong!
As I was leaving the weigh-in ceremony, a tall young lady yelled out "Good job Regina"! I was trying to be friendly by asking her name and she said, " I am the one who kicked you out of first place!". Oh no she did not just say that! Well now, you know, I am in second place in percentage of total weight lost. I noticed that the strong competitors are younger women, in their twenties. I met one other lady tonight. Well, look out girls! If you are reading this, then this older young lady is not giving up. In fact, I love Janis' quote today. It fit my situation tonight. "You can fall apart or finish strong!" Well I started strong and I am going to finish strong. I will not tell you my plans this week because I am sure there are readers that may be strong competitors. I am gaining more and more confidence of what I need to do. Now I know the competition part can be fun, just to keep pushing you to do your best!
Female % Weight Loss
1. Marion Brown 7.56%
2. Regina Powers 7.29%
3. Leslie Brady 7.26%
4. Adair Dempsey 7.22%
5. Sydney Fowler 7.10%
I take notes every nutritional meeting on my blackberry. I listen intently and can't wait to go home and implement my action plan. (My HR background helps) Well after this blog, I am making an action plan for the week and I will execute it keenly, focusing on every detail. AWWF! - Attitude. Workout. Weight. Food
Hey tomorrow, I am going to a movie, no talk of weight, no talk of food. Ben, I promise. I won't be in my workout outfit, I promise! So watch out! No popcorn, which I hear is over a 1,000 calories at movie theaters. Yes I do my homework. I already have my snack plan. Take my water bottle with lemon, and a bag of a few (4) almonds counted out with a few blue berries and a Greek yogurt. This has become one of my favorites. I would say it really replaces ice cream for me. I feel better eating it, without guilt. Keep supporting me, I still need you. Pease don't go away!!!
As I was leaving the weigh-in ceremony, a tall young lady yelled out "Good job Regina"! I was trying to be friendly by asking her name and she said, " I am the one who kicked you out of first place!". Oh no she did not just say that! Well now, you know, I am in second place in percentage of total weight lost. I noticed that the strong competitors are younger women, in their twenties. I met one other lady tonight. Well, look out girls! If you are reading this, then this older young lady is not giving up. In fact, I love Janis' quote today. It fit my situation tonight. "You can fall apart or finish strong!" Well I started strong and I am going to finish strong. I will not tell you my plans this week because I am sure there are readers that may be strong competitors. I am gaining more and more confidence of what I need to do. Now I know the competition part can be fun, just to keep pushing you to do your best!
Female % Weight Loss
1. Marion Brown 7.56%
2. Regina Powers 7.29%
3. Leslie Brady 7.26%
4. Adair Dempsey 7.22%
5. Sydney Fowler 7.10%
I take notes every nutritional meeting on my blackberry. I listen intently and can't wait to go home and implement my action plan. (My HR background helps) Well after this blog, I am making an action plan for the week and I will execute it keenly, focusing on every detail. AWWF! - Attitude. Workout. Weight. Food
Hey tomorrow, I am going to a movie, no talk of weight, no talk of food. Ben, I promise. I won't be in my workout outfit, I promise! So watch out! No popcorn, which I hear is over a 1,000 calories at movie theaters. Yes I do my homework. I already have my snack plan. Take my water bottle with lemon, and a bag of a few (4) almonds counted out with a few blue berries and a Greek yogurt. This has become one of my favorites. I would say it really replaces ice cream for me. I feel better eating it, without guilt. Keep supporting me, I still need you. Pease don't go away!!!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Workout Wenesday
I started my day walking to the gym. What a nice sunny day, with a little chill in the air. Off I go in my uniform- I prefer Nike, the swoof makes me feel like an athelete. "Just do it". (LOL)
Just a little trivia, who came up with Nike?.... Bill Bowerman created Nike, with an assist from Phil Knight, who was a student at the UofO at the time. Bill was a track athlete and coach and dreamt up a new sole that would allow runners better traction on the track. He started melting rubber on his wife's waffle irons (ruining many) until he had it right. This was in the late 60s, I believe. He, of course, lived in Eugene, Oregon. My daughter Summer who lives in Oregon and she told me this, not that I did not believe her I googled it. I love reading trivia. I have to watch this because I can become glued to the internet. Everyone who know me well know I am always reading something.
Today workout was written and handed out to us, with much anticipation we all read intently of our fitness benchmark. This is what my paper said: 2 sets of stairs bottom to top (or 2 laps)
1 lap around the track, 15 push ups, 25 squat to press (with sand bags), 50 line jumps side to side. Walking lunges (diameter of track) in hallway. All must be done 3 times of all of the above. Are you tired yet? I did this in 44 mins.:16 sec. We only stop for a little water and kept going. I am happy to see difillbulators all over the Wellness Center. Just kidding, I know my limits. Laurie specificly said if I rather do laps instead of the steps I could. I ended up doing a mix. I wanted to not fear the steps so I did it!! This was a good workout to say the least. I felt a great accomplishment. I will try to beat the 44 mins perhaps by 33 minutes next time.
Tomorrow is weight in and I do not have the anxiety I have had in the past few. I am just taking this a step at a time.
Just a little trivia, who came up with Nike?.... Bill Bowerman created Nike, with an assist from Phil Knight, who was a student at the UofO at the time. Bill was a track athlete and coach and dreamt up a new sole that would allow runners better traction on the track. He started melting rubber on his wife's waffle irons (ruining many) until he had it right. This was in the late 60s, I believe. He, of course, lived in Eugene, Oregon. My daughter Summer who lives in Oregon and she told me this, not that I did not believe her I googled it. I love reading trivia. I have to watch this because I can become glued to the internet. Everyone who know me well know I am always reading something.
Today workout was written and handed out to us, with much anticipation we all read intently of our fitness benchmark. This is what my paper said: 2 sets of stairs bottom to top (or 2 laps)
1 lap around the track, 15 push ups, 25 squat to press (with sand bags), 50 line jumps side to side. Walking lunges (diameter of track) in hallway. All must be done 3 times of all of the above. Are you tired yet? I did this in 44 mins.:16 sec. We only stop for a little water and kept going. I am happy to see difillbulators all over the Wellness Center. Just kidding, I know my limits. Laurie specificly said if I rather do laps instead of the steps I could. I ended up doing a mix. I wanted to not fear the steps so I did it!! This was a good workout to say the least. I felt a great accomplishment. I will try to beat the 44 mins perhaps by 33 minutes next time.
Tomorrow is weight in and I do not have the anxiety I have had in the past few. I am just taking this a step at a time.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Zumba Kinda Day
The rain did not bother me today like it would have in the past. I get to go take my pill and that is my exercise. Yes, I have done the whole pill for everything, but now I am currently taking none. (Well... ...except a little Aleve to get through some of my workouts). I was excited because today was Zumba day. Yes, I took my little skirt and shook my hips as hard as I could. Check out the photo of our instructor. She Rocks! This dance class embraces so many ethnic groups. My roots are pretty diverse -- my mother was African-American and Native-American (a beautiful ebony woman). My father's family was from Ireland and mixed with Native-American, as well. I feel when we are doing the Zumba class, some of mine ethnicity comes out on the dance floor. Go Gina Go Gina!I love Tuesdays. Aquatic class tonite! Arf! Arf! Sprint, sprint. Forward, backward, slide, pull, slide pull! I hope the water is warm today. Once you get in and jumping around you warm up pretty fast. I noticed several other members from the HCC program as well. I think everyone is serious about their workout. It's really encouraging.
After a good workout in the pool, I ran into one of the mentors from one of other the teams. She was so encouraging to talk with. I also ran into the students that weigh us every week. (they are too sweet) I did not start worrying about weight in this week. I know I am eating better. I am working out hard. The weight will continue to drop. It's funny how you start to appreciate even your weights.
Got to go watch The Biggest Loser. You know the drill. I still wish I could have spent the night on a farm to do this so I would not have to cook, clean and all those fun things.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Strength Training
The difference between can and cannot are only three letters (a quote I read online from Remez Sasson)! These three letters can change the direction in which we go. A positive attitude brings strength, initiative, and energy. To think negatively is like taking a weakening drug (also from Sasson). My friends, I am no longer on the drug called negativity. In order to succeed in this program I must stay positive. This morning I did not allow the fact that I was up with a sore neck stand in my way. I always have my workout clothes at the foot of my bed. This was advice my mother in law gave me when she power-walked every morning with a friend at 5AM for over 25 years. The only reason she stopped was due to her dear friend's death from breast cancer, and she found that it was very hard for her to walk alone. Can you imagine the friendship they shared. My mother-in law is 85 years old and is still gardening and very active. She looks great!
I have also notice that my workout clothes are like a uniform for me now. They go on everyday. It's nice when you don't have to lay on the bed, hold your breath, squeeze everything in, slowly working the zipper up, hoping you don't tear off some skin along the way. Then to look in the mirror, after what seems almost like a workout, and you see a what they call a big muffen top. Then you franticly hunt for something to cover that up. I promise myself that no more days like this will I ever see. Now that's positive thinking! Time to maybe get a new pair of jeans so that I can get out of these workout clothes. I am sure they will be smaller.
We did strength training today. Love it. It makes me feel stronger! There were only four of my teammates here today, but it seems like fourteen because we all are getting stronger. You can see it in all of us. I sense a lot of positive energy. I am working out twice a day now, and everyone's goal is to bump up the intensity for a great week. I am headed to aquatic class tonight. I have to get a little more cardio in today. I continue to write each day to hold myself accountable to ME, to you and anyone reading I might help along the way. I am so proud to be working out everyday. This is becoming a habit. As a matter of fact, I can't imagine not working out. Yes, I said it......
A few other quotes I like:
Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong. The amount of work is the same. ~Francesca Reigler
If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it. ~Mary Engelbreit
So often time it happens, we all live our life in chains, and we never even know we have the key. ~The Eagles, "Already Gone"
I have also notice that my workout clothes are like a uniform for me now. They go on everyday. It's nice when you don't have to lay on the bed, hold your breath, squeeze everything in, slowly working the zipper up, hoping you don't tear off some skin along the way. Then to look in the mirror, after what seems almost like a workout, and you see a what they call a big muffen top. Then you franticly hunt for something to cover that up. I promise myself that no more days like this will I ever see. Now that's positive thinking! Time to maybe get a new pair of jeans so that I can get out of these workout clothes. I am sure they will be smaller.
We did strength training today. Love it. It makes me feel stronger! There were only four of my teammates here today, but it seems like fourteen because we all are getting stronger. You can see it in all of us. I sense a lot of positive energy. I am working out twice a day now, and everyone's goal is to bump up the intensity for a great week. I am headed to aquatic class tonight. I have to get a little more cardio in today. I continue to write each day to hold myself accountable to ME, to you and anyone reading I might help along the way. I am so proud to be working out everyday. This is becoming a habit. As a matter of fact, I can't imagine not working out. Yes, I said it......
A few other quotes I like:
Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong. The amount of work is the same. ~Francesca Reigler
If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it. ~Mary Engelbreit
So often time it happens, we all live our life in chains, and we never even know we have the key. ~The Eagles, "Already Gone"
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