34 Days and Quite a Difference.
I realized something yesterday. I have only been committed to daily exercise, better eating - and this blog - for just over a month. That's not a whole lot of time. Not when kept in perspective.
Rome was not built in a day.
Another one of my mother's favorite sayings. When she said: "Rome wasn't built in a day" she was trying to remind us to be patient. She was trying to let us know that some things are worth working for - and worth waiting for. My mother is such a wise woman. Always has been. I'm the one who needed to grow before I would truly appreciate that fact.
My point is: It's only been just over ONE month since I began this journey to "Feelin' fine in 2009". 34 days. And, after YEARS of neglecting my health, eating too much sugar, not exercising enough, my awesomely-made body is already responding! This blog may seem redundant. It's a common theme with me, because patience is an area in which I need growth. I'll admit, it does seem like it's been more than 34 days. But the Wii Fit doesn't lie. So this morning, as the Wii Fit made its announcement "This is your 34th day!" I thought: "Is that all? But I feel so different! So much better! Is it possible it's only been just over a month since I started?"
Amazement set in.
Then I was, once again, amazed. Not impressed with my own 34-day sticktuitiveness. Impressed with God's design, as The Great Creator. Our bodies are capable of being more fit after several months of determination, focus and commitment, than they were before YEARS of neglect! Isn't that amazing? I, for one, am grateful.
Successful eating... most of the time!
I really am eating far less sugar and processed foods than I have in a long time. Still don't know what perfection looks like for more than a day or two, but then perfection is not really the goal. I am thinking more before eating. And I'm making better decisions. Yahoo!
Ryan is the police.
I am learning how much my kids - especially Ryan, who's 8 - want me to be in better physical condition. He is very encouraging. Once in awhile, he's even pushed a little too hard. "Mom, are you sure you want to eat that?" he sometimes asks. I don't like it sometimes. I have to remind him that I appreciate his encouragement, but he does not have license to police everything I eat. Bless his heart. He wants me to feel good and have energy. Who could blame him? I think I'll thank him when he gets home today. I do appreciate him. I'm glad he cares.
So, the way I figure it, with the help of the Wii Fit, Paul's encouragement to go to the Y some evenings when I don't feel like it, wonderful Nutrilite products, and of course, Police Officer Ryan...
Victory is a sure thing! And it's coming one day, one week, one month at a time.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Thursday February 19, 2009 - My side.
I'm changing. And I've noticed.
As I was talking with someone this morning, I put my hand on my side. It startled me a bit. Know why? Because I noticed something. There is less side there! Yes, as my hand rested on my side, it struck me: "Hey! I've shrunk a little!" And I have to tell you. It felt good to notice that change in myself. As you lose weight/get in shape, you are usually the last one to appreciate the changes that are occurring during the process.
Sometimes it takes an objective third party.
Monday morning I saw a friend that I hadn't seen in about 3 weeks. She said: "Are you losing weight?" I said: "Yes." She noticed right away. And it felt good. Paul has been commenting, and calling me "slim". That feels good too. But not as good as it felt to notice (for myself) my shrinking side "chub", as my kids would call it. Strange, I know. But true. It was a teeny, tiny-yet momentous-event on a long journey to fitness.
Thank you God, for small victories on the way to THE Victory!
As I was talking with someone this morning, I put my hand on my side. It startled me a bit. Know why? Because I noticed something. There is less side there! Yes, as my hand rested on my side, it struck me: "Hey! I've shrunk a little!" And I have to tell you. It felt good to notice that change in myself. As you lose weight/get in shape, you are usually the last one to appreciate the changes that are occurring during the process.
Sometimes it takes an objective third party.
Monday morning I saw a friend that I hadn't seen in about 3 weeks. She said: "Are you losing weight?" I said: "Yes." She noticed right away. And it felt good. Paul has been commenting, and calling me "slim". That feels good too. But not as good as it felt to notice (for myself) my shrinking side "chub", as my kids would call it. Strange, I know. But true. It was a teeny, tiny-yet momentous-event on a long journey to fitness.
Thank you God, for small victories on the way to THE Victory!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Monday February 16, 2009 - Keepin' On
Keepin' on.
There's a lot to be said for keeping on. Sticking to the plan, even when you don't feel like it. There is great reward - in addition to the specific goal. But does keeping on mean perfection? Not at all. Keeping on means not letting setbacks destroy your motivation. This weekend was challenging. Valentine's Day cookies got the best of me. . . definitely a setback. But my motivation is in tact.
Another nighttime workout.
Last night was another "Yikes! I haven't exercised today!" night. So, at 9:00 I fired up the Wii Fit. 52 minutes later, I was tired. But glad. And - I slept like a baby!
So, as I enter a new week on my journey to "Feelin' Fine in 2009" I am grateful for God's help as I keep on keeping on... until...
Victory is mine!
There's a lot to be said for keeping on. Sticking to the plan, even when you don't feel like it. There is great reward - in addition to the specific goal. But does keeping on mean perfection? Not at all. Keeping on means not letting setbacks destroy your motivation. This weekend was challenging. Valentine's Day cookies got the best of me. . . definitely a setback. But my motivation is in tact.
Another nighttime workout.
Last night was another "Yikes! I haven't exercised today!" night. So, at 9:00 I fired up the Wii Fit. 52 minutes later, I was tired. But glad. And - I slept like a baby!
So, as I enter a new week on my journey to "Feelin' Fine in 2009" I am grateful for God's help as I keep on keeping on... until...
Victory is mine!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Friday February13, 2009 Great Day
Great day, great progress!
Yesterday was a great day of success. At 8:00 last night I realized I hadn't exercised. Not being a night person, I didn't feel like exercising. But - I decided to start up the Wii and do 20 minutes of at least some yoga and some balance games. Before I knew it, I had done yoga, balance, aerobics and even some strength training! 44 minutes total, and it wasn't even a big deal.
Getting started is the key.
Once again, last night I was reminded that the important thing is to just get started. Disciplining myself to get up, get moving, (or in the case of last night, KEEP moving) or drive to the Y, start-up the Wii, whatever... just move in the right direction. I guess at that point, momentum takes over! Thank God for momentum!
Tempted to eat junk.
When I got home from the office last night, Lauren was itching. The Benadryl didn't seem to be helping. She was frustrated. So, as I prepared to head back out the door to go talk with a pharmacist, I realized I was really hungry. Initially, I was going to reach for some junk food to take with me. Then I stopped in my tracks. It would be just as easy to grab a Nutrilite blueberry bar and some string cheese. Throw in an XS Energy drink-and dinner was served in the car! A healthy dinner, at that! The best part? Lauren was feeling better by 7:00. And I was felling good too!
Two great decisions. One very important Victory!
Yesterday was a great day of success. At 8:00 last night I realized I hadn't exercised. Not being a night person, I didn't feel like exercising. But - I decided to start up the Wii and do 20 minutes of at least some yoga and some balance games. Before I knew it, I had done yoga, balance, aerobics and even some strength training! 44 minutes total, and it wasn't even a big deal.
Getting started is the key.
Once again, last night I was reminded that the important thing is to just get started. Disciplining myself to get up, get moving, (or in the case of last night, KEEP moving) or drive to the Y, start-up the Wii, whatever... just move in the right direction. I guess at that point, momentum takes over! Thank God for momentum!
Tempted to eat junk.
When I got home from the office last night, Lauren was itching. The Benadryl didn't seem to be helping. She was frustrated. So, as I prepared to head back out the door to go talk with a pharmacist, I realized I was really hungry. Initially, I was going to reach for some junk food to take with me. Then I stopped in my tracks. It would be just as easy to grab a Nutrilite blueberry bar and some string cheese. Throw in an XS Energy drink-and dinner was served in the car! A healthy dinner, at that! The best part? Lauren was feeling better by 7:00. And I was felling good too!
Two great decisions. One very important Victory!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Thursday, February 12, 2009-Good Day
One shaky day deserves two good ones!
Yesterday's Wii Fit workout was 62 minutes of progress! I added a couple of strength training exercises and set a couple of new personal bests. It really was a good workout. Then, last night Tyler beat me at bowling, then I beat him at tennis. A little more exercise to finish the day.
Eating well.
I'm happy to report no sugar intake yesterday, and all-around good eating decisions. And today-with the Lord's help-it will be the same. I am committed to making today my second perfect day in a row. Tomorrow, I'll go for #3.
Victory! Sometimes it comes two steps forward, one step back. The important thing: the two steps forward!
Yesterday's Wii Fit workout was 62 minutes of progress! I added a couple of strength training exercises and set a couple of new personal bests. It really was a good workout. Then, last night Tyler beat me at bowling, then I beat him at tennis. A little more exercise to finish the day.
Eating well.
I'm happy to report no sugar intake yesterday, and all-around good eating decisions. And today-with the Lord's help-it will be the same. I am committed to making today my second perfect day in a row. Tomorrow, I'll go for #3.
Victory! Sometimes it comes two steps forward, one step back. The important thing: the two steps forward!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Wednesday February 11, 2009 - New Day
It's a new day, full of new hope and new decisions.
Imperfection. A human condition that is tough for most of us to accept. Even tougher for some. But, imperfection can be a grounder. A reminder that God is the only perfection. And to achieve anything worthwhile in life, we need Him.
True confessions.
Last night, Ryan sat under my nose, munching on Pringles potato chips. Now, this kind of temptation has been under my nose multiple times in the past couple of months, and I've been able to resist without much effort. Not last night. Without much thought, I grabbed a 2 inch stack of those crispy starch slices and-before I knew it-I was munching away. I'm happy to report, they didn't taste all that good.
Moving on.
Today is a new day, and it will be a day of better decisions. First decision: I will take the time to commit this day of my journey to the Lord. Another confession: I didn't do that yesterday. The lesson: I need Him.
And with Him, Victory will come!
Imperfection. A human condition that is tough for most of us to accept. Even tougher for some. But, imperfection can be a grounder. A reminder that God is the only perfection. And to achieve anything worthwhile in life, we need Him.
True confessions.
Last night, Ryan sat under my nose, munching on Pringles potato chips. Now, this kind of temptation has been under my nose multiple times in the past couple of months, and I've been able to resist without much effort. Not last night. Without much thought, I grabbed a 2 inch stack of those crispy starch slices and-before I knew it-I was munching away. I'm happy to report, they didn't taste all that good.
Moving on.
Today is a new day, and it will be a day of better decisions. First decision: I will take the time to commit this day of my journey to the Lord. Another confession: I didn't do that yesterday. The lesson: I need Him.
And with Him, Victory will come!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Tuesday, February 10, 2009 Slow but Sure
Slow but sure wins the race!
One of my mother's favorite phrases - and true! I am not losing weight at record speed. Not this time. Oh, I have set some records in the past. One time I remember losing 40 pounds in 40 days! I crash dieted (hardly ate a thing) and exercised twice a day, every day. And, if rapid weight loss with no thought for my long-term health was the goal, I suppose I could do that again.
But what I know is this: that rapid, break-neck speed of weight loss is not, for me, a recipe for long term success. I ought to know. I have gone down that road a few times in my life.
This time, it's for good.
This time I am interested in excellent overall health for the rest of my life. This time I want to change the way I eat, sleep, exercise... live. This time, it's for good.
So... once again, the weekend was a challenge for me. Though I didn't go overboard on sugar (don't think I ate any "obvious sugar") I still made some poor food choices. And the only exercise I got Saturday and Sunday was priming, painting and glazing the bathroom. Less than perfect, but better than before!
Yesterday's 56 minute Wii Fit workout was a bit tough, but still felt good. I was informed that my weight hasn't changed since Thursday. At first, my reaction was to revert back to the old way of thinking. Then I reminded myself that this is about the long term. And that I am definitely getting stronger and healthier. No doubt about that. Plus, I remembered that Saturday I fit into a pair of painting jeans that I haven't been able to wear in a long time. So, I will stick to the plan. The long term plan.
And- slow, but sure, I'll win the Victory!
One of my mother's favorite phrases - and true! I am not losing weight at record speed. Not this time. Oh, I have set some records in the past. One time I remember losing 40 pounds in 40 days! I crash dieted (hardly ate a thing) and exercised twice a day, every day. And, if rapid weight loss with no thought for my long-term health was the goal, I suppose I could do that again.
But what I know is this: that rapid, break-neck speed of weight loss is not, for me, a recipe for long term success. I ought to know. I have gone down that road a few times in my life.
This time, it's for good.
This time I am interested in excellent overall health for the rest of my life. This time I want to change the way I eat, sleep, exercise... live. This time, it's for good.
So... once again, the weekend was a challenge for me. Though I didn't go overboard on sugar (don't think I ate any "obvious sugar") I still made some poor food choices. And the only exercise I got Saturday and Sunday was priming, painting and glazing the bathroom. Less than perfect, but better than before!
Yesterday's 56 minute Wii Fit workout was a bit tough, but still felt good. I was informed that my weight hasn't changed since Thursday. At first, my reaction was to revert back to the old way of thinking. Then I reminded myself that this is about the long term. And that I am definitely getting stronger and healthier. No doubt about that. Plus, I remembered that Saturday I fit into a pair of painting jeans that I haven't been able to wear in a long time. So, I will stick to the plan. The long term plan.
And- slow, but sure, I'll win the Victory!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Friday February 6, 2009 Sore Again
New Muscles?
Yesterday I began to wonder... "Are there new muscles in there? Muscles I've never used before?" then.... "No, not new, just newly awakened!" I raised my arms to hug someone yesterday, and when I did - Yeow! - sore muscles (I think these would be my deltoids) that I didn't even know were sore! And then my legs... the things I changed in my weightlifting workout on Wednesday must have dug deep, because muscles were screaming in my upper legs last evening.
Quick Recovery
But today, they're already better. Hardly even sore. I believe that doing some yoga stretches and repeating exercises like triceps extensions without any weight, helped accelerate the healing. I never cease to be amazed at God's incredible design of the human body! I'm grateful for the fact that progress can be seen so quickly, even after years of neglect. Wow!
God's Grace, Physical AND Spiritual
This, to me, is an illustration of God's grace. How, once we repent, he is quick to accept us, wiping out our mistakes as if they never happened. Amazing grace! I also know that, once my body is in great shape, it will "forget" about the poor condition it once was in.
Ezekiel Bread and Organic Eggs
Talk about a power meal! Whole sprouted grain bread (complex carb), and God's perfect food: eggs from free-range, organic-fed hens. Gently cooked in organic coconut oil (medium chain fatty acids, lauric acid, lots of great nutrition, healthy omegas, stable when heated). The incredible egg, with complete proteins, lutein, Omega-3s, choline, yummy AND so good for ya! Add to that, healthy XS Energy Drinks (instead of soda pop), Nutrilite protein bars and shakes, and - eating well gets easier and easier!
Victory! I can taste it already!
Yesterday I began to wonder... "Are there new muscles in there? Muscles I've never used before?" then.... "No, not new, just newly awakened!" I raised my arms to hug someone yesterday, and when I did - Yeow! - sore muscles (I think these would be my deltoids) that I didn't even know were sore! And then my legs... the things I changed in my weightlifting workout on Wednesday must have dug deep, because muscles were screaming in my upper legs last evening.
Quick Recovery
But today, they're already better. Hardly even sore. I believe that doing some yoga stretches and repeating exercises like triceps extensions without any weight, helped accelerate the healing. I never cease to be amazed at God's incredible design of the human body! I'm grateful for the fact that progress can be seen so quickly, even after years of neglect. Wow!
God's Grace, Physical AND Spiritual
This, to me, is an illustration of God's grace. How, once we repent, he is quick to accept us, wiping out our mistakes as if they never happened. Amazing grace! I also know that, once my body is in great shape, it will "forget" about the poor condition it once was in.
Ezekiel Bread and Organic Eggs
Talk about a power meal! Whole sprouted grain bread (complex carb), and God's perfect food: eggs from free-range, organic-fed hens. Gently cooked in organic coconut oil (medium chain fatty acids, lauric acid, lots of great nutrition, healthy omegas, stable when heated). The incredible egg, with complete proteins, lutein, Omega-3s, choline, yummy AND so good for ya! Add to that, healthy XS Energy Drinks (instead of soda pop), Nutrilite protein bars and shakes, and - eating well gets easier and easier!
Victory! I can taste it already!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Thursday February 5, 2009 - Stronger
Growing Stronger
My weight lifting session at the Y yesterday morning was especially productive. I increased the load on my leg extensions and curls, plus added a couple of upper body exercises. I have a few NEW sore muscles today, but it really is a GOOD sore!
Once home, I completed a 32 minute Wii Fit session for balance, aerobics and Yoga (stretching).
I am growing stronger every day, and that feels great! My knees have not given me any problems in well over a week. I believe that's because my muscles are stronger, plus the Yoga and stretching are helping to keep things in line.
Victory! I can see it on the horizon...
My weight lifting session at the Y yesterday morning was especially productive. I increased the load on my leg extensions and curls, plus added a couple of upper body exercises. I have a few NEW sore muscles today, but it really is a GOOD sore!
Once home, I completed a 32 minute Wii Fit session for balance, aerobics and Yoga (stretching).
I am growing stronger every day, and that feels great! My knees have not given me any problems in well over a week. I believe that's because my muscles are stronger, plus the Yoga and stretching are helping to keep things in line.
Victory! I can see it on the horizon...
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Wednesday February 4, 2009
More Progress
Yesterday's Wii Fit workout was a good one! 55 minutes and several new personal bests made for a rewarding time. Though Lauren still holds the top spot in the ski jump and the tight rope, I am getting closer!
No nachos, thanks.
Last night Tyler played basketball. His team, the CCA Cougars, defeated the Harvest Temple Crusaders! It was an exciting game, and the nachos were flowing! At the concession stand, the hot item of the night was nachos supreme... loaded with salsa and cheese and... anywho... I had no problem saying no.
Looking forward to today, when I'll be one day closer to Victory!
Yesterday's Wii Fit workout was a good one! 55 minutes and several new personal bests made for a rewarding time. Though Lauren still holds the top spot in the ski jump and the tight rope, I am getting closer!
No nachos, thanks.
Last night Tyler played basketball. His team, the CCA Cougars, defeated the Harvest Temple Crusaders! It was an exciting game, and the nachos were flowing! At the concession stand, the hot item of the night was nachos supreme... loaded with salsa and cheese and... anywho... I had no problem saying no.
Looking forward to today, when I'll be one day closer to Victory!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Great Day!
Yesterday morning I completed a 45 minute Wii Fit workout. Then, last night, Paul and I played racquetball for almost an hour, followed by 30 minutes of weight lifting. I know I'm getting stronger and that is fun!
Measurable progress.
One of the things I love about weight liftng is, as you gain strength, there's no debating it. When you are able to complete 8-12 reps on arms and 10-15 on legs - even after increasing the amount you're lifting, you KNOW you're getting stronger! I love that!
No ego. Just focus.
I was the only woman in the weight room at the Y last night, but I don't care. As I told Paul, the beauty part of being a woman up there is, I have no ego to protect. I can bench press the empty Olympic bar without feeling embarrassed! You see, it is more important to me to use proper form and build strength gradually. I have no need to impress anybody! I am free to focus on what I'm doing, and that's wonderful!
No sugar.
After having some sugar Sunday evening, I was a bit sleepy yesterday. And that made it easier to say no to sugar!
Victory! One day at a time!
Yesterday morning I completed a 45 minute Wii Fit workout. Then, last night, Paul and I played racquetball for almost an hour, followed by 30 minutes of weight lifting. I know I'm getting stronger and that is fun!
Measurable progress.
One of the things I love about weight liftng is, as you gain strength, there's no debating it. When you are able to complete 8-12 reps on arms and 10-15 on legs - even after increasing the amount you're lifting, you KNOW you're getting stronger! I love that!
No ego. Just focus.
I was the only woman in the weight room at the Y last night, but I don't care. As I told Paul, the beauty part of being a woman up there is, I have no ego to protect. I can bench press the empty Olympic bar without feeling embarrassed! You see, it is more important to me to use proper form and build strength gradually. I have no need to impress anybody! I am free to focus on what I'm doing, and that's wonderful!
No sugar.
After having some sugar Sunday evening, I was a bit sleepy yesterday. And that made it easier to say no to sugar!
Victory! One day at a time!
Monday, February 2, 2009
February 2, 2009 Day 14
Imperfect weekend, not total failure.
This weekend my fitness plan took a back seat to a few other things. My eating was not so great on Sunday, what with Super Bowl snacks all around. However, I am happy to report that I could not eat all the junk food I thought I'd be able to. That is progress of a different sort.
We have not made it to the Y since Thursday. Tonight for sure!
Back on the Wii this morning, I completed a 45 minute workout, which truly felt good. Even with a couple of imperfect days, the Wii happily reported that my weight is down again! But - I will not continue to report weight loss here, as it is not my focus. I am gaining strength, improving my eating habits, and getting fit. Lifelong changes, not temporary sacrifices.
I am not discouraged by this weekend's failures, because I know that as long as the majority of my decisions are good ones, they will still lead to Victory!
This weekend my fitness plan took a back seat to a few other things. My eating was not so great on Sunday, what with Super Bowl snacks all around. However, I am happy to report that I could not eat all the junk food I thought I'd be able to. That is progress of a different sort.
We have not made it to the Y since Thursday. Tonight for sure!
Back on the Wii this morning, I completed a 45 minute workout, which truly felt good. Even with a couple of imperfect days, the Wii happily reported that my weight is down again! But - I will not continue to report weight loss here, as it is not my focus. I am gaining strength, improving my eating habits, and getting fit. Lifelong changes, not temporary sacrifices.
I am not discouraged by this weekend's failures, because I know that as long as the majority of my decisions are good ones, they will still lead to Victory!
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