Review: PointsPlus Fitness Series

I am so proud to report that I have been consistently working out for almost a year and a half now... quickly approaching 2 years in November.  I have not consistently stuck to working out this long ever in my life.  Sure, I might be a 230ish pound female, but I work out every week!  Clearly, I have that part of my healthiness journey down.  Consistency with eating well is lacking, but I'm <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/search/label/No%20Sugar%20Challenge" target="_blank">working on improving it</a>.<br /><br />Over the last several weeks, Weight Watchers has been sponsoring a get-active event called LiveLifeActive.  Beginning in June, if you record your activity within eTools, somehow you're eligible to win prizes.  They've also offered discounts on all of their fitness products, for which I took full advantage. <i> (Sidenote: Last year WW hosted a 5K walk called the Weight Watchers Walk-it Day Challenge - I thought this was soooo much better!)</i><br /><br />While I'm not a huge yogi - I'm not opposed to it - I do enjoy my <a href="http://www.gaiam.com/product/am-pm+yoga+conditioning+for+weight+loss+dvd.do" target="_blank">Gaiam Yoga for Weight Loss</a> DVD.  I've never had a yoga mat before so I picked up the WW version, which boasts a bit larger size than your average yoga mat.  I also purchased the WW activity DVD that offers 5 DVDs with 5 different styles of workouts. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGBtn4XYGZK1N_Ilg49G_Ma9ud4sbwig-TmGysn6i_2w69QHiQcSMGYr-vid_mfPcbvu5pdzM52y6ZwLJHqZq5O_Jnzpyv7mYRcsTJKoCHBNFjNoHjkUNoJxo-FBQ2WWtc6lMhLsf5-GU/s1600/jennifer+cohen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGBtn4XYGZK1N_Ilg49G_Ma9ud4sbwig-TmGysn6i_2w69QHiQcSMGYr-vid_mfPcbvu5pdzM52y6ZwLJHqZq5O_Jnzpyv7mYRcsTJKoCHBNFjNoHjkUNoJxo-FBQ2WWtc6lMhLsf5-GU/s320/jennifer+cohen.jpg" width="237" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/weight-watchers-points-plus-fitness-series-dvd-set-geared-for-all-fitness-levels" target="_blank">Source</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />I mistakenly thought that because these were WW workout DVDs, the intensity of them would probably be on the low side.  Well, I'm sure they're no comparison to Jillian's Shred, but these DVDs are tough!  So far I've done them all at least once, but have done the Core Cardio DVD twice.  Every single time I have walked away sore.  The length of the workouts range from 30 min to just under 40 minutes.  Each of them offer an express workout option as well. <br /><br />The 5 workouts are:<br /><br /><ol><li>Total Body Cardio Stretch: yoga-like</li><li>Upper Body Boot Camp: lots of weight moves</li><li>Lower Body Interval Training</li><li>Core Cardio</li><li>Cardio Basic </li></ol>This is the basic layout of every DVD.  Imagine a little timer bar in the lower right corner of the screen.  The girl on our right is always doing the lower intensity modifications.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz590_cblf0AssjabDC8pFghfBEg3XAMEDv4lU7oB-PNhcte2j5ckpT7d2vKV-rvg9A5oAGI2pQZCO0R4uTvfASIXjkoFCyJjUDgL3oCoihWuh_spCDRQRJgD6iMrSNd8JwMSAHbR3Ss0/s1600/DVD+Jen+Cohen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz590_cblf0AssjabDC8pFghfBEg3XAMEDv4lU7oB-PNhcte2j5ckpT7d2vKV-rvg9A5oAGI2pQZCO0R4uTvfASIXjkoFCyJjUDgL3oCoihWuh_spCDRQRJgD6iMrSNd8JwMSAHbR3Ss0/s320/DVD+Jen+Cohen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The things I enjoy about these workouts are:<br /><ul><li>Cool little timer bar that runs across the bottom, showing you how long you have left.</li><li>The modifications of the workouts that tailor to someone who is more advanced to someone just beginning.</li><li>The length of the total workout.</li><li>The soreness afterward!</li><li>The moves are not difficult to grasp.  So, if you don't feel very coordinated, like myself, the moves are not complex and are easy to follow along with.</li></ul>The things I <i>don't</i> enjoy about these workouts:<br /><ul><li>The moves are too repetitive.  For example, you might be lunging for 2-3 solid minutes on the same leg before you switch.  I find that's a long time to remain with the same exercise, especially if you're trying to keep up with them - I get really tired.  Not only that, but it gets boring.  Now, since results are what we're going for, the challenge is appreciated.  However, it does make me dread the workouts a bit because I know I'll be doing lunges (or whatever exercise) for what seems an endless amount of time.  Other exercise DVDs are really great about keeping things moving (The Wave, for example).</li><li>One particular move in some of the DVD's is sort of like a plank, but you walk yourself into a plank position.  These are extremely tough!  I also get very lightheaded when doing them, so I only do one and try to do a different move while the trainers proceed with those moves.  </li></ul><b style="color: #351c75;">What's your favorite workout DVD and why? </b>

Exercise Fitness DVDs Weight Watchers Review: PointsPlus Fitness Series

I am so proud to report that I have been consistently working out for almost a year and a half now... quickly approaching 2 years in Novembe...

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Oh Hey, I'm Back

I've been absent from The Big Weight.  I'm also pretty good at stating the obvious.<br /><br />I haven't had a lot to say these days, as I've gained/lost the same +/- 5 lbs.  As I had been stating for several weeks now, I've had an incredibly hard time getting my mind back in the healthy eating game since about February. I eat out of boredom, and that's the bottom line.  BUT, I'm not giving up no matter how many failures I have.  I'm going to lose this weight no matter how many "re-starts" it takes.  <br /><br />I had a brief email exchange with fellow blogger <a href="http://www.nothankstocake.com/" target="_blank">Kelly @ No Thanks to Cake</a>, and she reminded me that she blogs for her, not for others (thank you SO MUCH for your encouragement Kel!).  As much as I agree with this, clearly I was in the mindset of thinking about what my readers would want to see.   Does anyone really want to keep seeing someone fail who had been on quite a roll previously?  That doesn't sound very inspiring.  But The Big Weight, at the end of the day, is for me.  The more I document my journey here, the more beneficial for  me whenever I do have these stumbling blocks along the way.  I can go back and see what worked before and try to apply those methodologies again.  But if I'm not here writing it down, then I don't have a point of reference.  So hey, here I am again... stumbling around aimlessly or not!<br /><br />Rarely am I able to do both things well on my weight loss journey - I can either eat perfectly (which is rare), staying within my PointsPlus every week, OR I can get in my allotted goal for exercise.  As is typically the case, I've been tearing it up at exercise!  During the weekend of April 28, I <i>ran</i>, not walked, <i>RAN</i>, two 5K's!! <br /><br />On Saturday, I attended the Civista Health & Wellness 5K, which caters to both runners and walkers.  I typically try to run some of the 5K, but I've never been able to do the entire thing.  As the race began, I found this lady who was running at a good pace and I thought, "I can do this.  I'm just going to follow her as long as I can."  And so that's what I did.  I just paced myself according to her and I ran the <b>entire </b>time!  I gave myself positive self talk throughout, reminding myself to breathe, relax my shoulders, and to pace myself.  I did <i>so well</i> and I was incredibly proud of myself!  I also let that lady know what an inspiration she was to me at the end - and she was just as grateful for my kind words to her as I was to her pace-setting. <br /><br />Needless to say I was rather sore after that 5K, but I tried to stay active the rest of the day (by going shopping :) ).  I got this suit for a work function.  I am a very anti-black suit person.  That's all women seem to own and I like to go against the grain.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_nIusXljs1fBifeEGfbTVht3DPpvtIYxvc3Y9qj_bHvomFv2AlQcfkier5r3TQnZ8jun0KOmsji_1_uP2GxAaYJB0T5ErNQtLOsYBE5cbtQG-DHPS3sO15KOnDp5vThB5l8pxx7Eqb80/s1600/white+work+suit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_nIusXljs1fBifeEGfbTVht3DPpvtIYxvc3Y9qj_bHvomFv2AlQcfkier5r3TQnZ8jun0KOmsji_1_uP2GxAaYJB0T5ErNQtLOsYBE5cbtQG-DHPS3sO15KOnDp5vThB5l8pxx7Eqb80/s400/white+work+suit.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just call me Dr. Pritt</td></tr></tbody></table>Anyhow, the very next day I had the March of Dimes - March for Babies.  This was a 5K that is geared toward walking (and I raised $225 for it).  As much as I wanted to say "I ran my first two 5Ks every back to back in one weekend!" I knew I had to be reasonable about it.  I was very sore when I woke up Sunday morning, but as we lined up for the walk and the adrenaline started pumping, I knew I wanted to give this run a shot.  So I did, and I went about the same method: set a nice, reasonable pace and kept encouraging myself that I could do it.  I wasn't out for speed, but for simply finishing without stopping.  I'm not gonna lie though, it was tough - I was sore and also the entire last mile of the race was uphill!  BUT, I did it!!!! I ran the entire thing and I had tears in my eyes <strike>walking </strike>running (I just remembered!) back to my car. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5JOCKlZnAEntyePrMq3oy-uCqxGL3hE_PVv8XLTcPrgWqn_TpC3iQBBnvT6sh5HPkLJzdKqdI3z_ZRhDfcJgl1S2z27t9iS-_JtNrU58UrXBp9ljEb7GGKL-BKVSg-zBEr6jKsOjk4A/s1600/march+of+dimes+race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5JOCKlZnAEntyePrMq3oy-uCqxGL3hE_PVv8XLTcPrgWqn_TpC3iQBBnvT6sh5HPkLJzdKqdI3z_ZRhDfcJgl1S2z27t9iS-_JtNrU58UrXBp9ljEb7GGKL-BKVSg-zBEr6jKsOjk4A/s400/march+of+dimes+race.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">after the March for Babies</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> <b style="color: #674ea7;">I ran two 5K's the entire way through in 1 weekend!!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I <i>do </i>have a LOT to be proud of on this weight loss journey!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="200" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6533663.591;sz=200x200;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000000026530730;pid=48363;usg=AFHzDLswlymL68hwQrdIDtArGhJ6C4BHKQ;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.abt.com%252Fproduct%252F48363%252FNikon-25472-.html;pubid=541254;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fcontent.abt.com%2Fmedia%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2FBDP_Images%2Fbig_d3100.jpg;width=200;height=158" vspace="0" width="200"></iframe></div>

5K Civista Health and Wellness Exercise March for Babies March of Dimes Success Weight Watchers Oh Hey, I'm Back

I've been absent from The Big Weight.  I'm also pretty good at stating the obvious. I haven't had a lot to say these days, as I...

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A Saturday of Fishing

On Saturday Joel and I ventured outdoors so that he could do some fishing, and I some picture taking.  It was another nice weekend here in Virginia.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dVhNcL1ks1tIJmV5v__-uzkE7QXEhpiL0J_BSjZu_2O4mwQMWPipk2LoFEpBB50c2eooE303cogw34hD2zPwLFV78lia_ppW-IZIzJzAPYjzf1kJoOu-bQhRVUxPtCROYkNOosSocyQ/s1600/DSC_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dVhNcL1ks1tIJmV5v__-uzkE7QXEhpiL0J_BSjZu_2O4mwQMWPipk2LoFEpBB50c2eooE303cogw34hD2zPwLFV78lia_ppW-IZIzJzAPYjzf1kJoOu-bQhRVUxPtCROYkNOosSocyQ/s400/DSC_0001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />Joel loves fishing.  I like tagging along to keep him company.  On occasion I have been known to throw a pole into the water, but that's rare :).  Today he was hoping to catch some shad - a breed of fish that are "running" this time of year in the tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay.  He loves catching them.  In fact, this time last year we were at this very same spot where Joel was literally bringing in one fish after another - it was the craziest fishing experience I've ever had.  By the way, for those who might be concerned, he throws the fish back!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mnyzLM3rM0jrgeZPqqEtuAbdsErYhyphenhyphen6NNyXU4cWT0cClg92x-8MtcYV1EOKxZLVEA7UvztmundcsPD_xVnWDMrgtqXODrhT7-Oz6bFvlMEQ-maKBY3jUI8uIaOdY2maABDEa-FxfzLQ/s1600/DSC_0077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mnyzLM3rM0jrgeZPqqEtuAbdsErYhyphenhyphen6NNyXU4cWT0cClg92x-8MtcYV1EOKxZLVEA7UvztmundcsPD_xVnWDMrgtqXODrhT7-Oz6bFvlMEQ-maKBY3jUI8uIaOdY2maABDEa-FxfzLQ/s400/DSC_0077.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />We did a lot of walking around in the woods.  Great hidden exercise!  Sometimes we ran into a few snags though.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpUAMyfqWSvxp2SY9gySq0M7OkzHsSopZ_SB9hlzDVd_Lf2gi2NpH_sW6y5fupSRwa2R1OOk4sJWikRr_z6P79it8Q3FIoC7QZ5RniWaCC_gkrIwwU9syDaDK5Zj0CSZQ9E7X9t-3Eec/s1600/DSC_0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpUAMyfqWSvxp2SY9gySq0M7OkzHsSopZ_SB9hlzDVd_Lf2gi2NpH_sW6y5fupSRwa2R1OOk4sJWikRr_z6P79it8Q3FIoC7QZ5RniWaCC_gkrIwwU9syDaDK5Zj0CSZQ9E7X9t-3Eec/s400/DSC_0033.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />And then sometimes there was just plain randomness.  Sand along a creek bank?  Mud I get, but sand?  There was quite a bit of it in this one area...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuC1-mYfOxigOuUZKP-UROzbgwD4ycsNBbMw7MHFpoR6p-7F952Tc9b09KeuZ1wnfC26wIHNENvq_6vvb57I8M4gIYw0ZQnzWhuxI_pq63nD9b8SJ1dGVCGpjHmQGsorSSW8hlOtgESQs/s1600/DSC_0102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuC1-mYfOxigOuUZKP-UROzbgwD4ycsNBbMw7MHFpoR6p-7F952Tc9b09KeuZ1wnfC26wIHNENvq_6vvb57I8M4gIYw0ZQnzWhuxI_pq63nD9b8SJ1dGVCGpjHmQGsorSSW8hlOtgESQs/s400/DSC_0102.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />Joel did end up catching two fish, but he wasn't exactly thrilled about them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk-yf7JOHxBCddnXL-RRhpQCV2xs819U0a5YKaarcWinM0-psQRQM9U-Y_JlmKYhU7cjq0Dr6LF_MNSdK1KvRsLhq4QD8iRPbfy0HqlX8nOykXbiEVIhp8UoH6pDSVQYfCbBuO9zz9fmw/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk-yf7JOHxBCddnXL-RRhpQCV2xs819U0a5YKaarcWinM0-psQRQM9U-Y_JlmKYhU7cjq0Dr6LF_MNSdK1KvRsLhq4QD8iRPbfy0HqlX8nOykXbiEVIhp8UoH6pDSVQYfCbBuO9zz9fmw/s400/DSC_0027.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4IyKGguWbIIfdGMgEQQOyN-cxLgN2dedqpLWMBrc7JdaHJjXNqAbyc_kYbDmr1oswnTvcEIL0WiQte_joYPsUsn65qylKChCPJ4ePB7qGmTy_49XG0F5Y15BYPxT7v_Ip8SIqmlFOIg/s1600/DSC_0119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4IyKGguWbIIfdGMgEQQOyN-cxLgN2dedqpLWMBrc7JdaHJjXNqAbyc_kYbDmr1oswnTvcEIL0WiQte_joYPsUsn65qylKChCPJ4ePB7qGmTy_49XG0F5Y15BYPxT7v_Ip8SIqmlFOIg/s400/DSC_0119.JPG" width="400" /></a><br /> </center><div style="text-align: left;">Not including this bonus exercise, I have already gotten in my three days of activity this week!  Happy girl to have those shenanigans out of the way :).  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lTQ6-SZyh_nBtOXW1_jdXsUeHQnSWTXtww1LXeEnOavypxnOQpC3LkKDwsgN0RbwgwhMGiOgJJGIQCM6Y-j1mfolJJRb9BJ7UD2GXhFAODoZSMVFsumIiLu6TYTglk8KXV8SKrypBwI/s1600/DSC_0127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lTQ6-SZyh_nBtOXW1_jdXsUeHQnSWTXtww1LXeEnOavypxnOQpC3LkKDwsgN0RbwgwhMGiOgJJGIQCM6Y-j1mfolJJRb9BJ7UD2GXhFAODoZSMVFsumIiLu6TYTglk8KXV8SKrypBwI/s400/DSC_0127.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="color: #351c75;">Did you get in any activity this weekend?</b></div>

Exercise Fishing Joel A Saturday of Fishing

On Saturday Joel and I ventured outdoors so that he could do some fishing, and I some picture taking.  It was another nice weekend here in V...

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Refocusing - Winning Outcomes

Sometimes I just don't have anything to say, and last week was one of those times.  Part of this is because I've been in a weight loss slump.  When I'm not losing, then it's hard to find the inspiration to write something substantial.  I know what needs to change, I just need to <i>do it</i> and stop saying I'm going to do it.<br /><br />Back in January, I <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2012/01/winning-outcomes.html" target="_blank">wrote about Weight Watchers' Winning Outcomes helpful habit</a>.  Here are some things I've stuck to:<br /><ul><li><b>Meal planning two weeks at a time:</b> for me this simply means carving out meal options for two full weeks - not actually tracking them and such.  That part I still need to work on.  However, I did plan out my day today and that feels like a huge relief!  I know I could have easily "blown it" today if I had not pre-tracked my day, overestimating how much I would have left for dinner. In fact I would have had next to nothing had I brought my usual snacks.  Must. Continue. Pre-tracking.</li><li><b>Two days of weekly activity</b>.  I've stuck to this with no problem - it was easily doable for me.  Now I've added in one extra day per week.  More about that later!</li><li><b>Eating out only one meal per week.  No Starbucks Mon-Fri.</b>  This was going well for me right off the bat.  I know applying this rule (along with the others mentioned above) had significant impacts on my weight loss... and the success I was having just a few weeks ago.  Then the Terrible Awful happened.  Then things quickly went downhill.  This rule is going back into effect...effective immediately!  While I have eaten 2 meals out this weekend - ok, fine, what's done is done - the rest of the week will be meals prepared by myself or Joel AT HOME.     </li></ul><br />Now that I've gotten that all off of my chest.... <br /><br />One way to combat my failed attempts at eating healthy lately has been to step up my exercise each week.  I'm trying to keep it varied, so as not to get bored.  While I'll still be utilizing the gym, I also found a new activity that I've been enjoying so far.  It's called <a href="http://www.firmdirect.com/firm/ecs/main/firm-wave.html" target="_blank">The Wave</a>.  You might have heard of this from an infomercial.  I actually read about it in <a href="http://www.allyou.com/" target="_blank">All You's</a> recent issue of their health magazine.  They touted The Wave and The Bender Ball as being some of the most effective at-home workouts available.  I've used The Wave three times so far, and all three times I've been very sore afterward, which means it must be working!<br /><br />I will be doing a full review of The Wave in an upcoming post.  In case you're curious though, I purchased mine from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Firm-05-54004-Wave-Kit/dp/B001VLFEDU/ref=sr_1_1?s=exercise-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1332767982&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Amazon</a>.  The Wave is an arched platform that you use in conjunction with several workout DVD's. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjulSF4do_S7HVX1pHvz0h_Y5Dw9IWYMc67w2ytgVqb-cde_LrT5Gj7J3q2n7joecBEn9p0QeK8I1NL3RX-tkUdcF5hW7UFRlGXsmtI5IjZzae9G8qx1keLQrf0_v_oZ-Z0CjT6Oaxpo8Q/s1600/the+wave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjulSF4do_S7HVX1pHvz0h_Y5Dw9IWYMc67w2ytgVqb-cde_LrT5Gj7J3q2n7joecBEn9p0QeK8I1NL3RX-tkUdcF5hW7UFRlGXsmtI5IjZzae9G8qx1keLQrf0_v_oZ-Z0CjT6Oaxpo8Q/s320/the+wave.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>If it gives me variety and isn't overly complicated, then I'll do it.  So far so good!<br /><br /><b style="color: #351c75;">Have you heard of The Wave?  Have you tried it?  What at-home workout do you like the best?</b>

Exercise Helpful Habits The Firm The Wave Weight Watchers Winning Outcomes Refocusing - Winning Outcomes

Sometimes I just don't have anything to say, and last week was one of those times.  Part of this is because I've been in a weight lo...

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Week/Weekend Recap

First off, congratulations to <a href="http://www.myweightingplace.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kari</a> for winning the Weight Watchers Magazine giveaway :)!  <br /><br />I think I'll start with the bad, then quickly move on to the good and pretend the bad was never discussed.<br /><br />I've been doing a lot of gaining, which means I've been doing a lot of eating {and drinking of beer}, and not abiding by eTools.  I have banished those practices and already have myself set up for some delicious meals this week.  Friday I <i>will </i>have a loss.<br /><br />Now to the fun stuff!<br /><br />Last week I made the <a href="http://www.weightwatchers.com/food/rcp/RecipePage.aspx?recipeid=203061&tab=2" target="_blank">Kielbasa Baked Ziti</a>, an eTools recipe.  I didn't change a thing about it and loved it!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2NjXofYORDbVzU5TKBb0LgUMuF3IPRPNyNNqHp8Uc6SbV5dGVGn9DcKs5jo4jEQCfdZIoldnAXCwuTbOZuVPmeEtwB-Vmi1XbcmEl3sdYzbRsL5kSh2BcOavaEaqsIdU3erv3B8x0nE/s1600/WW+Ziti+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2NjXofYORDbVzU5TKBb0LgUMuF3IPRPNyNNqHp8Uc6SbV5dGVGn9DcKs5jo4jEQCfdZIoldnAXCwuTbOZuVPmeEtwB-Vmi1XbcmEl3sdYzbRsL5kSh2BcOavaEaqsIdU3erv3B8x0nE/s400/WW+Ziti+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />It offered plenty of flavor with the cheeses, turkey kielbasa, peas and the <a href="http://www.redgold.com/tuttorosso/products.asp" target="_blank">sauce</a> I used.  Easy, quick, tasty and I will definitely make this again!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1UeaDxABhv59DZHB0pAoP6pGC2OErjOZ4F0yWCvGmv0QHnNb_NxXmJnWtQI2X5VsAcHL-6j5OQbROWtIoY0BKACL5HxY1DdkcHhE4BDUEovtYLKezvk7KkRBUZ2_APqJIYo8T2BHeBtg/s1600/WW+Ziti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1UeaDxABhv59DZHB0pAoP6pGC2OErjOZ4F0yWCvGmv0QHnNb_NxXmJnWtQI2X5VsAcHL-6j5OQbROWtIoY0BKACL5HxY1DdkcHhE4BDUEovtYLKezvk7KkRBUZ2_APqJIYo8T2BHeBtg/s400/WW+Ziti.jpg" width="292" /></a></div><br /><br />Next up was an AWESOME meal at <a href="http://www.famousdaves.com/" target="_blank">Famous Daves</a>.  I have never been there before, mainly because I'm not a huge meat eater.  I do like meat, but I'm very basic with my meat choices - ground beef, chicken, and turkey.   I don't like ribs, steak, pulled pork, etc.  While Famous Daves is pretty "famous" for those latter entrees, they also had a great chicken sandwich that I loved, made especially delicious by adding some of their tasty barbeque sauce.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEganBtoqPr4xlQrYBVujp0LY-hzA4ojtvH_LtgMBbGpPyVYM2fLCGyDwHKhfVDJz8rdJLxwJbzUvsYSPEv6ILZPLaXhQO5h-gjQWD77HAjbebfhlk7_l_K5LSYCylCyqUoYifLr98gAcx8/s1600/Famous+Daves+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEganBtoqPr4xlQrYBVujp0LY-hzA4ojtvH_LtgMBbGpPyVYM2fLCGyDwHKhfVDJz8rdJLxwJbzUvsYSPEv6ILZPLaXhQO5h-gjQWD77HAjbebfhlk7_l_K5LSYCylCyqUoYifLr98gAcx8/s400/Famous+Daves+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first letters of the different BBQ sauces they offer - presented by our server</td></tr></tbody></table>I felt like I was able to easily stay On Plan eating here.  Their dishes are all on eTools!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQqCdgVYDgfflZ7FazGluZs4n1JQv6Wt4NMstrvw8Opj3ALjnkhEZO9kfYQrnR7hr3cIumIaG18iULk7E4EUdXZFCtxccCoYlheXiNZ5blV0nBWpAvdGRBDqON_e_slXbBWy-ld3Y6lHc/s1600/Famous+Daves+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQqCdgVYDgfflZ7FazGluZs4n1JQv6Wt4NMstrvw8Opj3ALjnkhEZO9kfYQrnR7hr3cIumIaG18iULk7E4EUdXZFCtxccCoYlheXiNZ5blV0nBWpAvdGRBDqON_e_slXbBWy-ld3Y6lHc/s400/Famous+Daves+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />I will definitely go back to this place in the near future!<br /><br />Because of all the poor eating I've been doing, I stayed exceptionally active this weekend.  I completed three workouts already!  I did two at the gym, and one at a nearby park.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVdjkY1wB_OwMo3OdURxW2IzFn4XA131bru9bqokfN3BW2wYf6TI_5AnOgmxULH5aC-2A_PS68om8zebs8nnZOClzX9w2SwfnBKzUAJ9Krg5B6acJZGc8zJGbDJVhJKv0LVad5aUr9nXE/s1600/Huntley+path.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVdjkY1wB_OwMo3OdURxW2IzFn4XA131bru9bqokfN3BW2wYf6TI_5AnOgmxULH5aC-2A_PS68om8zebs8nnZOClzX9w2SwfnBKzUAJ9Krg5B6acJZGc8zJGbDJVhJKv0LVad5aUr9nXE/s400/Huntley+path.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />I got some pretty great pictures while there. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTWrg-kKBJgL0CYkJdeoBqgzY1Fow1IRPnJqhh5E-cf-RQ16r9GGsIg0POtSGB849yv-idkW8s-UGb8dxMIF-2Rb1Qqk4caEHsPi5TFSn0XcpTYZKnVNOA_q4fHNsmVsVVf4qelVdqXc/s1600/Huntley+log.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTWrg-kKBJgL0CYkJdeoBqgzY1Fow1IRPnJqhh5E-cf-RQ16r9GGsIg0POtSGB849yv-idkW8s-UGb8dxMIF-2Rb1Qqk4caEHsPi5TFSn0XcpTYZKnVNOA_q4fHNsmVsVVf4qelVdqXc/s400/Huntley+log.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />We decided to go off the neat and tidy path and head around the Pond Trail.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUPes8x2d6fEydSfK3fYc1Ylr9cvSB_6gDlMqfUyk5iM8AkdyuSd8fTcZDPSYmRok9bLuvCvGbyQaKd8qNESg2mDOrf-EHad5CZmzf4HOjy4WDUQdFd8ChA2cDPU-Jw9_iX7wXd7AOSc/s1600/pond+trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUPes8x2d6fEydSfK3fYc1Ylr9cvSB_6gDlMqfUyk5iM8AkdyuSd8fTcZDPSYmRok9bLuvCvGbyQaKd8qNESg2mDOrf-EHad5CZmzf4HOjy4WDUQdFd8ChA2cDPU-Jw9_iX7wXd7AOSc/s400/pond+trail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />It was fairly muddy, but still a nice stroll through the woods.  While on this little diversion, we came upon this crazy looking tree.  There were several trunks with branches that draped down to the ground {click for a larger pic that hopefully offers a better perspective}. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Sx39tv362zKcliDM_wWNs2QzvyySp7PTV1VRmB5M18PU-UPlFY97SyfMJOZAEI38iAbasGdWyor1PnaTI-DbJ296wGQH9u_wNok_UnkUppnEHgcpW5Cesu386DdIcaPnj_ctc4AuqkY/s1600/Huntley+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Sx39tv362zKcliDM_wWNs2QzvyySp7PTV1VRmB5M18PU-UPlFY97SyfMJOZAEI38iAbasGdWyor1PnaTI-DbJ296wGQH9u_wNok_UnkUppnEHgcpW5Cesu386DdIcaPnj_ctc4AuqkY/s400/Huntley+Tree.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Perhaps my favorite part of this walk was coming upon this guy:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8x2_YqK_XuNRK6-Uda1BONbdZwfx2opu0CbgM8zWbuugm2F4tnx5X6XZ5D2gIMb7PlhgtOtyWKZX4zFkSYTk8v3Rs2IBL0dQnFnY3-FgNLTCwSIXz0QeD9xbz8yrNAgADTEADj7yW-50/s1600/cardinal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8x2_YqK_XuNRK6-Uda1BONbdZwfx2opu0CbgM8zWbuugm2F4tnx5X6XZ5D2gIMb7PlhgtOtyWKZX4zFkSYTk8v3Rs2IBL0dQnFnY3-FgNLTCwSIXz0QeD9xbz8yrNAgADTEADj7yW-50/s400/cardinal.jpg" width="307" /></a></div><br />My FAVORITE bird, the cardinal!  He also happens to be our state bird here in Virginia.  I love them so much. <br /><br />By the way, "we" in this story is myself and Joel.  By the grace of God <i>alone</i>, He brought Joel back to me.  Even after Joel moved out of our condo, even after all that was said, it was clear that there was no one who would be able to change Joel's heart and mind other than the G-man.  I have held off sharing this information so quickly because of the fragility of it all.  However, it is clear and understood that we are both committed to working on our relationship, placing God first in hearts, and each other second. <br /><br />I am SO happy again!<br /><br /><br />

Exercise Gain Joel Weekend Recap Week/Weekend Recap

First off, congratulations to Kari for winning the Weight Watchers Magazine giveaway :)!  I think I'll start with the bad, then quickly...

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Exercising for YOU

I'm glad I've reincorporated workouts back into my life.  I had definitely taken some time off during most of October/November/December.  Easing back into it with just 2 days per week have really worked to my advantage.  It's just enough to make a difference for weight loss and make me feel good, and also just the right amount so that I'm not bored by doing the same few machines over and over 4-5 days/week.  Not to mention the fact that it's been just enough to motivate me to keep going every week! <br /><br />Right around the start of the new year I was trucking away on the elliptical reading an article in a magazine,  and it talked about how important it is <i>not </i>to<i> </i>compare your weight loss journey to others.  It talked about how you do what you have to do for <i>yourself - </i>what feels comfortable for <i>you</i>.  It mentioned how there are countless studies that say you must do x, y and z {in terms of exercise} in order to achieve "real" results.  What really rang true to me in this article was that it stressed how each weight loss journey is unique to that individual.  <i> </i><br /><br /><ul><li>You<i> do what </i>you're<i> capable of doing.</i>  <i> </i></li><li>You <i>do what feels right for </i>you <i>at this point in your life.  </i></li><li>You <i>can achieve "real" results just by doing something so </i>simple <i>as walking every day.  <br /> </i></li></ul><br />Yes, you can challenge yourself, but you don't have to make the exercise part of weight loss so overwhelming by telling yourself that you must do 10 variations of weight moves and 5 levels of intensity on the elliptical/treadmill/stairmaster, etc, every single day in order to achieve weight loss success.  I was definitely getting to that point with exercise.  I had spreadsheets of exact things I needed to be doing each day at the gym.  Sometimes this proved beneficial, mixing up the monotony of my typical routine.  However, what it really did was drive me away from the gym... for almost 3 solid months.  Why?  Because it all just became overwhelming.<br /><br /><div style="color: #999999; text-align: center;">{I don't really want to make this<br />weight loss journey <span style="color: #999999;">any more difficult/stressful/overwhelming </span><br /><span style="color: #999999;">than it already is.}</span>   </div><br />Before blogging, I would say I didn't struggle much with comparing my journey to others.  However, now that I read a lot of weight loss and fitness blogs, I have found myself thinking: <br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><i>"Well they are doing 5 days/week at the gym, I need to do the same!  They are doing all these weight moves and cardio intervals, I need to do the same!  Otherwise, I'm not really measuring up in this 'weight loss community' and I'm not going to achieve 'real' results."</i></blockquote><br />At this point in my life right now, I want <i>simple</i>.  I know that walking works.  I proved that to myself as a sophomore in college, when I lost 50 lbs, bringing me to my lowest adult weight ever.<br /><br />By no means am I saying that <i>you </i>should just walk or run and nix the rest of the exercise choices.  No.  Lifting weights can be fun and obviously provides great health benefits.<br /><br />But, if you're finding yourself overwhelmed at the thought of all there is to do at the gym, try starting simply first.  It really has made all the difference for me.       <br /><br /><b style="color: #674ea7;">Can you relate to this?</b>

Exercise Exercising for YOU

I'm glad I've reincorporated workouts back into my life.  I had definitely taken some time off during most of October/November/Decem...

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A Walk Through the Park

I appreciate all of your advice and encouragement on my <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/10/breakdown.html">breakdown post</a>.   Some of you stated that I am too hard on myself, and on one hand I know that I am my own worst critic.  On the other hand, I know I cannot continue to make excuses for myself for the rest of my life - I have to get my butt in gear if I want to enjoy what is left of my 20s!<br /><br />Onward to more happy things, shall we?<br /><br />On Sunday evening, after Joel and I drove the 7.5 hours back from Charlotte, we decided to take a stroll through a nearby park that we've been meaning to check out.  A walk through a park is much more enjoyable than 45 minutes spent on the elliptical, wouldn't you say?  <br /><br />The park offered nice, leisurely walking paths through the woods, allowing us to forget that we really live in a major metropolitan area (score!). <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrMx9Gu-0rvS47Omg0P9pcwKKvEc5FkI7O26clxrIHWBsFZPvXYjLiCfGzM1ZxEare2V3Qq9eTUmBuQod-k3TEd0FPtYlYEsTp0iUEaTTj9U1OkZQ2abDHgMo2rxI2N0HYRYLR1Hqs5Y/s1600/Walking+Pic+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrMx9Gu-0rvS47Omg0P9pcwKKvEc5FkI7O26clxrIHWBsFZPvXYjLiCfGzM1ZxEare2V3Qq9eTUmBuQod-k3TEd0FPtYlYEsTp0iUEaTTj9U1OkZQ2abDHgMo2rxI2N0HYRYLR1Hqs5Y/s400/Walking+Pic+1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />Though Joel was a little unhappy when we came upon the marshland to find out that they do not allow fishing.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjOBdIaNlDNu1JC9lsx7OKu_mKVrc3ESI3qpXVgQcyrv7yKaq5mU2nKkRqmXOmQvOHto4ycGmrCsx2yyw4tcMXvYmOchflsUR3octFVodZtrZkUqXNtDzmaYyJiuR-Bz66FqMDXprXuA/s1600/Joel+no+fishing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjOBdIaNlDNu1JC9lsx7OKu_mKVrc3ESI3qpXVgQcyrv7yKaq5mU2nKkRqmXOmQvOHto4ycGmrCsx2yyw4tcMXvYmOchflsUR3octFVodZtrZkUqXNtDzmaYyJiuR-Bz66FqMDXprXuA/s400/Joel+no+fishing.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />Even so, this deck was so nicely built and well maintained.  It was clean and clear of debris, and while walking through the marsh, it confirmed our suspicions as to where all those mosquitoes are coming from!  We pretty much cannot step out our front door without getting bit (our condo's property lines the perimeter of this park).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZOO79NleXWQBebPUOnbWYtYbdZzKeFmNZR7WbU0VDyp7X2K30eLDALxYcb8IKQUAPtNJ12ty_V5oqPKffUk0MqyxlY50D_KqRAbb1RhvyPPhSsdWhThqnJcQ-F0Xe6doNTtiL6iSzDo0/s1600/walking+deck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZOO79NleXWQBebPUOnbWYtYbdZzKeFmNZR7WbU0VDyp7X2K30eLDALxYcb8IKQUAPtNJ12ty_V5oqPKffUk0MqyxlY50D_KqRAbb1RhvyPPhSsdWhThqnJcQ-F0Xe6doNTtiL6iSzDo0/s400/walking+deck.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />You can also see that here in the northern part of Virginia, our leaves are just now starting to change colors.  I just love the fall :).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggKPwfBBVwy6nL9KR8aKlJZFB9a2ToVQM4vTRxuTvfvrLw3yP-9ePY4o2910Uj-Ytn3R1WJ5KyEHGcKHeUYY6ZlZ_Po7uUKUJBdQZEDbiBQrG0uLy0fdGsqGWIV3r8AK9G4g-GW0Wweg/s1600/leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggKPwfBBVwy6nL9KR8aKlJZFB9a2ToVQM4vTRxuTvfvrLw3yP-9ePY4o2910Uj-Ytn3R1WJ5KyEHGcKHeUYY6ZlZ_Po7uUKUJBdQZEDbiBQrG0uLy0fdGsqGWIV3r8AK9G4g-GW0Wweg/s400/leaves.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />We really enjoyed ourselves here, and look forward to taking advantage of other area parks before it gets too cold to tolerate the outdoors. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhki3c8Y9cmmJpvkc6ZLlSLjpnTn1FWSsySpZiCVcEbPLyiuF5bLVQnMzlI6-igPRiSF4b9y9_SYttKnT0JhD2scKGTSVWrKeY5s8la9H6aJl3DePn6v0vfS3i3UxIPLl4f1ldyp29gSxg/s1600/fall+woods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhki3c8Y9cmmJpvkc6ZLlSLjpnTn1FWSsySpZiCVcEbPLyiuF5bLVQnMzlI6-igPRiSF4b9y9_SYttKnT0JhD2scKGTSVWrKeY5s8la9H6aJl3DePn6v0vfS3i3UxIPLl4f1ldyp29gSxg/s400/fall+woods.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cat tails are so neat to me, and not just because I <3 Charles so much & they <br />somewhat remind me of him :)</td></tr></tbody></table>On Friday, Joel and I are doing a sailing adventure on the Potomac River.  We purchased the tickets for it through a Groupon-type website.  There will surely be more pictures to follow from that!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg0WvWhhYqr3nmUFRFyzNNQOLeDkQOJfcvpcB9nOfFtu6TyST4EOIPZL6aLY_mOeUif-F0kAd8qY_GOMjoOHU18D8PVu3Ly9qEVOTiCa7bhwVFnp9ZsQMewG3WgLd0mwGOUFWc8EhCNTc/s1600/marsh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg0WvWhhYqr3nmUFRFyzNNQOLeDkQOJfcvpcB9nOfFtu6TyST4EOIPZL6aLY_mOeUif-F0kAd8qY_GOMjoOHU18D8PVu3Ly9qEVOTiCa7bhwVFnp9ZsQMewG3WgLd0mwGOUFWc8EhCNTc/s400/marsh.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Tomorrow (Friday) is also Joel and I's official weigh in for our first week on WW.  We started together officially on Monday, and so our weigh in week this week is short.  However, after tomorrow, we will be weighing in weekly on Friday's. <br /><br />Have a great weekend!

Exercise Miscellaneous A Walk Through the Park

I appreciate all of your advice and encouragement on my breakdown post .   Some of you stated that I am too hard on myself, and on one hand ...

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First Annual St Mary's County Septathalon

Over the weekend, Joel's brother, Nathanael, hosted a "septathalon" in honor of his 30th birthday.  It was held in St Mary's County, MD - down near the Chesapeake Bay.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzPuj1zPOOfsPzzRuq2r6dELMyRUDIlxsNnRiQvZa8wkRYba04r7hq44wa7KucXpgSTNfvyFVDxEy2t9Xu_kKDECjYm9OngIzjDVyR8Qx0DONFPYf20b22AD-xIWbyxJtJkDs-qxQvWL4/s1600/Septathalon+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzPuj1zPOOfsPzzRuq2r6dELMyRUDIlxsNnRiQvZa8wkRYba04r7hq44wa7KucXpgSTNfvyFVDxEy2t9Xu_kKDECjYm9OngIzjDVyR8Qx0DONFPYf20b22AD-xIWbyxJtJkDs-qxQvWL4/s400/Septathalon+007.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I snagged this pretty burnt heart on one of the dead trees near the river</td></tr></tbody></table>The Septathalon featured 7 events: yoga, swimming, biking, running, fishing, eating and drinking.  Not your average kind of sporting event :).<br /><br />I participated in 3 of the "main" events: yoga, biking and running.  Our yoga instruction was very quick - sort of a kick off to the entire event.  Once the guys (and 1 girl) finished with the swim, we started the 22 mile bike ride.  I actually only ended up doing 11 miles because it was pouring down rain and extremely hard to see, but I was really proud of myself for doing half of it.  I even felt really good after those 11 miles, I could have/would have kept going if not for the rain.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRIsOJzhzgCOHgbnuu1HO_wVLGQbEZgr8fFIowl0QLAgZkkygAAjffJPWgEdWjvvKxWlhekyw-u7QT7rrdTob6YsQ1XTWSwOG0O6BDCnil1U3k2pWwBYqFnnAYQOIogazgxzdUZzGibqc/s1600/Septathalon+095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRIsOJzhzgCOHgbnuu1HO_wVLGQbEZgr8fFIowl0QLAgZkkygAAjffJPWgEdWjvvKxWlhekyw-u7QT7rrdTob6YsQ1XTWSwOG0O6BDCnil1U3k2pWwBYqFnnAYQOIogazgxzdUZzGibqc/s400/Septathalon+095.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">that's me in the background gearing up for the 11 miles</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />After the bike ride, we proceeded to the 6 mile run.  After much convincing, Joel agreed to do the run with me.  We started off with a light jog and then had to walk for a bit because my hip started to hurt a little.  We made it 2 miles before we spotted Joel's brother running back to us, letting us know that the bar we were running to was closed (this was for the "drinking" part).  So, we just turned around and did 4 miles instead of the planned 6.  Joel and I both jogged for a little over 2 miles though - so I was very pleased with myself for that.<br /><br />I was <b>extremely proud</b> of myself for biking <i>and </i>walking/running.  Never have I ever biked 11 miles and ran/walked 4 all in the same day.  And by the way, Joel's brother did every single event in it's entirety.  Granted, he trained for the whole thing, but still - SO awesome!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJ6zISGHBMjjVE71CM7LReeuL8kLjsdUdjW6HxH9mefejp-NYDH8mNpQ7QTa1xOck-Dd7E4rVUbraeIGZWjjGPpgAncfUqLEkGRNyloUVdbKa74Ipd_Yv48gzXA_uhzrbNm4CGppEPCs/s1600/Septathalon+106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJ6zISGHBMjjVE71CM7LReeuL8kLjsdUdjW6HxH9mefejp-NYDH8mNpQ7QTa1xOck-Dd7E4rVUbraeIGZWjjGPpgAncfUqLEkGRNyloUVdbKa74Ipd_Yv48gzXA_uhzrbNm4CGppEPCs/s400/Septathalon+106.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><br />It wasn't long afterward that stiffness and soreness set in.  In fact, not only was I achy, but Joel and I both battled some serious stomach problems.  It put somewhat of a damper on the remainder of the day.  We ended up leaving the post-Septathalon BBQ early because of our stomach issues.  <br /><br />Still, I had a lot of fun on Saturday and I take so much pride in proving to myself that I was capable of doing these events, even if I am 256 pounds.

Exercise Septathalon First Annual St Mary's County Septathalon

Over the weekend, Joel's brother, Nathanael, hosted a "septathalon" in honor of his 30th birthday.  It was held in St Mary...

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Scheduling 5K's for the Fall!

It's been a few months since I completed my <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/search/label/5K">last 5K</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTuUFgYDUIQIpjQaCqGrfVF2rpLpAQNL9KOwnEC5t2m9MVtjlJeioVQRlDnW64lcmrmjWoY2OW3AN__UWTcwkOQx5bCB8n7z8K2FpzKcgWa2qdB3yd5p6CdL14HCHpyI9jgPl69EZYwH0/s1600/May+2011+032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTuUFgYDUIQIpjQaCqGrfVF2rpLpAQNL9KOwnEC5t2m9MVtjlJeioVQRlDnW64lcmrmjWoY2OW3AN__UWTcwkOQx5bCB8n7z8K2FpzKcgWa2qdB3yd5p6CdL14HCHpyI9jgPl69EZYwH0/s400/May+2011+032.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />I've been searching around on Active.com for local events in my area and have found a few worth considering over the next few weeks.  I'd really like to do a few fall themed ones, and so far have found two that are <a href="http://www.goblingallop.org/">Halloween</a> <a href="http://www.active.com/running/muncy-pa/muncy-monster-dash-2011">themed</a>, one that is hosted by the <a href="http://prracing.racebx.com/events/register/4e1f0625-9d54-40b7-94ed-5d4dc0a86522">YMCA to help fight childhood obesity</a>, <a href="http://www.kingstownestriders.org/FilltheShoes5K.html">one that will raise money for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network</a>, and <a href="http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e4g88edhc9475156&llr=tl9s5vdab">one that I have done in year's past that helps fight homelessness</a>.  <br /><br />Even though I still cannot run an entire 5K, I still enjoy doing them.  At the end of each race I feel a huge sense of accomplishment because I have proven to myself, yet again, that I am capable of doing anything I set my mind to, no matter how much I weigh.  Also, there is the added benefit that I have just been active for 3.1 miles early on a weekend morning.<br /><br />Well, this weekend I am traveling to St Mary's County, MD to participate in an unofficial event created by Joel's brother in order to celebrate his 30th birthday.  He called it the St Mary's Septathalon, where we will be participating in 7 active events on Saturday.  This includes running, swimming, biking, fishing, yoga, drinking (I didn't make the rules), and something else that I cannot remember.   I will be sure to snag some pictures!  It's going to be interesting no doubt...  <br /><br />Are you signed up for any 5K's this fall?<br /><br /><i style="color: #999999;"><a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/09/starbucks-giftcard-giveaway.html">Tomorrow is the drawing for the $10 Starbucks giftcard</a>! Don't forget to enter for your chance to win :). </i>

5K Exercise Scheduling 5K's for the Fall!

It's been a few months since I completed my last 5K . I've been searching around on Active.com for local events in my area and have ...

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Welcome to the OA Meeting

Hi.<br /><br />My name is Hilary and I ate a plate of pumpkin chocolate chip cookies tonight. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.everydaypeoplecartoons.com/cartoons/369---July-20---26,-2008,-healthy-eating.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.everydaypeoplecartoons.com/cartoons/369---July-20---26,-2008,-healthy-eating.png" width="270" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.everydaypeoplecartoons.com/cartoon/369">Source.</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Even <i>though </i>I thought I messed them up (don't ask), and therefore should not even be worth eating. <br /><br />Even <i>though </i>I was convinced they didn't taste delicious (like they normally do when made correctly) when I taste-tested them yesterday. <br /><br />Even <i>though </i><a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/09/beck-diet-solution-week-3.html">Beck says not to give in to cravings</a>!<br /><br />And while I <i>desperately </i>did not want to go to the gym to do NROLFW tonight even though it was on the schedule, <b>I still did anyhow</b>. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://qcistyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/exercise-cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://qcistyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/exercise-cartoon.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://qcistyle.com/the-n-crowd/fitness-cheaters-never-prosper/">Source</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table>Touché cookies. Touché.<br /><br /><i>Special thanks to <a href="http://mrshillruns.blogspot.com/2011/09/liebster-award.html">Jessica</a> for honoring me with the blog award :).</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><i>Don't forget to enter that lovely <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/09/starbucks-giftcard-giveaway.html">Starbucks giftcard giveaway</a>!</i><br /><br /><br />

Exercise Weight Loss Challenges Welcome to the OA Meeting

Hi. My name is Hilary and I ate a plate of pumpkin chocolate chip cookies tonight.  Source. Even though I thought I messed them up (don'...

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A Very Active Saturday

On Saturday, Joel and I did our first NROLW workout in the gym.  I enjoyed this SO much better.  <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/search/label/New%20Rules%20of%20Lifting%20for%20Women">You might remember</a> how I was scared to go to the gym to do these workouts because of all the super buff gym guys.  Well, we did great - steadily making our way through the workouts. <br /><br />Though Joel did get a little self conscious about me toting around a book about lifting for women.  I guess it's okay to be doing these workouts privately in our own home, but he was none to pleased with me "flashing the book around" on Saturday "like a tourist".  Hehe... sorry J-J.  Next time we'll be taking pics of the gym workouts and referencing our cell phones instead of the book :).  Problem solved!<br /><br />We both started out with 30 min on the elliptical, followed by Workout B (Stage 1).   After the gym, Joel and his cousin decided they wanted to meet up to go fishing at a nearby state park.  I decided to go along, since we would be kayaking, and I figured it was a great way to add more activity to my day while still having fun with Joel and his cousin.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEW3ZDcPTyePnH8ivssIGFeUR8IGsPOYbQHdzNJvo2_13B7qeFHQajI0FlYTvAdZi6H5bJ8-UlPgkm7dzi0uoqkkIIPARkZ5AGsir9qJjVMSIQdiaEJJSO777fOb7vZrIlrlQpBM8ybFg/s1600/Hil+Kayaking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEW3ZDcPTyePnH8ivssIGFeUR8IGsPOYbQHdzNJvo2_13B7qeFHQajI0FlYTvAdZi6H5bJ8-UlPgkm7dzi0uoqkkIIPARkZ5AGsir9qJjVMSIQdiaEJJSO777fOb7vZrIlrlQpBM8ybFg/s400/Hil+Kayaking.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was rather humid out on the water</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnW1PWeDniqIzHE0lOwTP7G-dxd5yxLmj4HZWyKLlkUMcGrxDrpoVB_Xn5YTD0hJW8jpb_Lj__OSdmcZJwQGGN3rfMYUwgxcEPeiC76E9oyKMTjclablTeeLLqJEzioJRPZjON7C3DGgU/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnW1PWeDniqIzHE0lOwTP7G-dxd5yxLmj4HZWyKLlkUMcGrxDrpoVB_Xn5YTD0hJW8jpb_Lj__OSdmcZJwQGGN3rfMYUwgxcEPeiC76E9oyKMTjclablTeeLLqJEzioJRPZjON7C3DGgU/s400/008.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Joel and his cousin, Jonathan, both have Hobie kayaks.  They are geared toward fishermen, and as you can see, you sit on top of it, rather than down inside.  They have these really neat foot pedals and a rudder to guide you around.  I love Joel's kayak - you have the option of either paddling the traditional way, or pedaling, and both are a great workout.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBuZRJ96egOG9GBXFwZI0uweTaby3Kwox48H7QpZpxPwwSGSiVfwllZ7JLcqy2Vx4qO8CaxLMYQ4IKDWbbfgqnciSU50208fEXNimTPy9aHdkyK3OzFG015t-PGJ5c9rpWEpNp0sHLbeg/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBuZRJ96egOG9GBXFwZI0uweTaby3Kwox48H7QpZpxPwwSGSiVfwllZ7JLcqy2Vx4qO8CaxLMYQ4IKDWbbfgqnciSU50208fEXNimTPy9aHdkyK3OzFG015t-PGJ5c9rpWEpNp0sHLbeg/s400/026.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of many large mouth bass caught that day by both him and his cousin</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv24yD8dRn-Q429WdhBHgaExFLvl4cA6YrJLwa513qKrrA0qIKGOZ4HMj8vT_51CVHOMscE2FNBj_RflraK96s9UKsIgg_pVCrd_6dlwpUpoOdeLX1ERgrmyJPmK0AjNZzm_yj6F0jnfs/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv24yD8dRn-Q429WdhBHgaExFLvl4cA6YrJLwa513qKrrA0qIKGOZ4HMj8vT_51CVHOMscE2FNBj_RflraK96s9UKsIgg_pVCrd_6dlwpUpoOdeLX1ERgrmyJPmK0AjNZzm_yj6F0jnfs/s400/006.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonathan is Joel's 5th "brother" - they are the best of friends</td></tr></tbody></table>What did you do this weekend?  Were you able to incorporate any activity AND fun into your plans?

Exercise New Rules of Lifting for Women Success A Very Active Saturday

On Saturday, Joel and I did our first NROLW workout in the gym.  I enjoyed this SO much better.  You might remember how I was scared to go ...

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Just Dance!

During the hurricane on Saturday, Joel and I decided to give Just Dance 2 a try.  It didn't take us long to get used to at all.  You're basically trying to mimic what the person on the screen is doing, to the song of your choice.  Also, they have a dance option that seems to be geared more toward exercise and working up a sweat.  We only played for about 15-20 minutes of the regular dance competition, just to try it, and we were both definitely sweating by the end of that short amount of time.<br /><br />I also managed to get a NROLW workout in on Saturday as well.  A weekend workout two weekends in a row!<br /><br />I found it a little difficult this weekend to halt the food cravings.  Every month at a certain time I seem to have this problem!  I have continued to track diligently however.<br /><br />I spent Sunday preparing the week's meals.  On the menu this week is Better-For-You Buttermilk Pancakes, Meatball & Spaghetti Soup, and this Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Chicken that is A-M-A-ZING!  I said I'd have recipes last week for last week's meals and that all got swept under the rug :(.<br /><br />Stay tuned for some deliciousness this week, however.  I've already had the pancakes and they were very tasty and filling.<br /><br />How did you and your family fair during the hurricane? 

Eat What You Love Exercise Weight Loss Weight Loss Challenges Weight Watcher Recipes Just Dance!

During the hurricane on Saturday, Joel and I decided to give Just Dance 2 a try.  It didn't take us long to get used to at all.  You...

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Why Hello There :)

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"></span></span><br /><div>I'm baaaccccckkkkk! <br /><br />(Warning: this is a long one - I didn't intend for this to go on and on but alas, that's what happened... read on if you wish :) )</div><div><br /></div><div>Hello friends!  I hope you don't think I fell off the wagon, because I didn't!  Here's a little catch up for ya:</div><div><br /></div><div>Last Wednesday Joel & I finally moved!  Need I explain anymore as to why I've been absent??  :)  Those of you who have moved know how busy your life becomes when an event like this occurs.  </div><div><br /></div><div>Not only did I move, but I'm still in school and that has also been keeping me extremely busy.  If I wasn't unpacking, then I was doing school work.  If I wasn't doing either of those two during my blogger absence, then I was making a trip to PA for my little cousin's high school graduation party.  I spent less than 24 hours in PA - I had so much to do with unpacking and schoolwork that I could hardly afford any more time away from home.</div><div><br /></div><div>I finally made it back to work on Tuesday and have been busy at work ever since.  My evenings have been spent hitting the new gym and trying to blow through this school work.  But the fun doesn't stop there folks!  This weekend I'll be making another trip back to the "Motherland" for a wedding, and this time the trip will be 6 hours rather than 4.  *sigh*</div><div><br /></div><div>ANYHOW, what is this blog supposed to be about?  Oh yeah, my weight loss shenanigans. :)</div><div><br /></div><div>I knew this move would be tough on the eating habits.  With every move comes eating out - lots and lots of eating out.  You're spending so much time unpacking, there isn't time to hit up the grocery store.  And so Joel and I ate out a LOT over the last several days, and I'm SO happy for that to come to an end!  I finally have my own kitchen again, and I'm looking forward to planning meals again and cooking at home and getting back in to some sort of routine.  I'm craving routine and healthy food ASAP!  I'd like to get some rough meal plan established in the next several days so that come Sunday (when returning from the wedding)  I can get to the grocery store and get some things purchased and made for the work week.</div><div><br /></div><div>Joel and I got a free 7 day pass to Gold's gym, which is the closest gym to our condo.  I've been there twice so far and I like it.  It's certainly not my cute, personable gym from Maryland where they call you by name, but it will do the job for sure.  There is no shortage of machines and there is a larger variety, which is nice.  Joel is going to start attending regularly now and that is also an added bonus.  </div><div><br /></div><div>Even though I've been attending a gym regularly since November, I still found myself extremely intimidated when even THINKING about walking in to Gold's.  In fact, I wasn't even pushing the issue with Joel to get there immediately following the move because I was nervous.  Isn't that odd?  I mean, almost every gym has the same basic equipment and layout - it's not like it's a foreign concept to me.  Cardio equipment over there, weights and machines over here.  Bada bing, bada boom - no big deal right?  I developed such a comfortable routine at the MD gym, and I wasn't self conscious when I walked in there, despite all the meat-heads walking around.  But walking in to Gold's, even with Joel by my side, was still, quite frankly, frightening.  The gym is huge, WAY more people attend there, and they're all skinny minnies and I feel that all they look at when they see me is another overweight person who will most likely fail.  :(  They don't know that I've been diligently working out since November!  They just don't know me... </div><div><br /></div><div>The first day was hard, and I made it through.  I hopped up on the elliptical, same exact one as I've been using since college and at the MD gym, and got to work - same routine, different location!  I just kept telling myself "Hilary, it's just a different surrounding - you know what you're doing!"  When I went back yesterday, it was a little bit easier - the nerves weren't AS strong as they were the first day.  I hope that as each visit passes, the nerves become less and less until they are nonexistent.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div><div><br /></div><div>I have to remember why I'm working out.  It's not just for weight loss, it's to change my life for the better so that I can hopefully have a long and healthy future ahead of me.</div><div><br /></div><div>Your thoughts?</div>

Exercise Random Weight Loss Thoughts Weight Loss Why Hello There :)

I'm baaaccccckkkkk! (Warning: this is a long one - I didn't intend for this to go on and on but alas, that's what happened... re...

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Making Good Choices

Last Friday, I found myself reading <a href="http://momonamission2bhealthy.blogspot.com/2011/06/i-have-choice.html">Sam's post about having a choice</a>.  I'm glad I did!<br /><br />It was a Friday afterall, I actually had to go into the office (I typically either work at home on Friday's or I have that day off), and so a large part of me really wanted to nix the workout for the day.  I wanted to get the weekend started!  (Why was I so anxious, when I knew all I'd be doing was studying, afterall?)  Anyhow, <a href="http://momonamission2bhealthy.blogspot.com/2011/06/i-have-choice.html">Sam's post</a> helped me realize that even though I was tired from a grueling work week with with not only work itself, but also school work, and TOM as well.... that it was ultimately my choice for doing or not doing a workout.  I knew I'd feel badly if I skipped the Friday workout and I knew the after effects of skipping a workout could cascade throughout my weekend.  <br /><br />As I was making the drive home, I realized I didn't have any reading material for the gym with me.  I didn't want to stop and buy any magazines because I have SO many at home I need to catch up on.  I also didn't want to drive home, get the reading material and then drive back to the gym.  I also was in no frame of mind to attempt to suffer through a workout while doing nothing...I was having a hard enough time as it was convincing myself to do something in the first place.  Then a light bulb went off!  It was an absolutely beautiful day - I could go for a bike ride!  So once I got home, I quickly changed and loaded up my bike into the Equinox and took off for the <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/04/bloooower.html">Indian Head Rail Trail</a>.    <br /><br />I love this trail so much, and I'm sad that I'll be moving further away from it next week :(.  I'm so glad I decided to go for a ride though - what a perfect ending to a hectic week... <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4esvSF30o0SOM0y-zB75ORVLpBOkhN8mgiC9Tjs9m5V_NvBkjj6whO3shnieA9KVvPUJooYDJt81wkpVh39UEaiu_bxHs3ypVPVBQGcGlc_Mbyy1cw8XFh2O3SlqncXDR1zpiwbNULEk/s1600/bike+ride+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4esvSF30o0SOM0y-zB75ORVLpBOkhN8mgiC9Tjs9m5V_NvBkjj6whO3shnieA9KVvPUJooYDJt81wkpVh39UEaiu_bxHs3ypVPVBQGcGlc_Mbyy1cw8XFh2O3SlqncXDR1zpiwbNULEk/s400/bike+ride+004.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mattawoman Creek</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigzxAaQ5DHwkT0OixNQUWPb_uk8-YrS_ZZfMEKy24NSjmOiTukUi48HbEEHTPH-CE3UjprWRxcTazuvYZMqVr1KA4fDWOG4RFu_DicajeaD5MijltDyjmVhHwDtkCndNsls5yc7mqUFa4/s1600/bike+ride+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigzxAaQ5DHwkT0OixNQUWPb_uk8-YrS_ZZfMEKy24NSjmOiTukUi48HbEEHTPH-CE3UjprWRxcTazuvYZMqVr1KA4fDWOG4RFu_DicajeaD5MijltDyjmVhHwDtkCndNsls5yc7mqUFa4/s400/bike+ride+005.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love rail trails - flat and scenic!</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCvXOc6Cv0opkUwHp2PYZWZsYWX0XiOogfSTf32scUU-SyuZfXXjDgp9QFLgP5fuH0olOdYU5Xaax6PaIYWzCjFxIlV4Y9VHSbr73GpeWILVa_OYf8wl2pSOcZ1kWEl5tkm1HV0enmd2k/s1600/bike+ride+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCvXOc6Cv0opkUwHp2PYZWZsYWX0XiOogfSTf32scUU-SyuZfXXjDgp9QFLgP5fuH0olOdYU5Xaax6PaIYWzCjFxIlV4Y9VHSbr73GpeWILVa_OYf8wl2pSOcZ1kWEl5tkm1HV0enmd2k/s400/bike+ride+007.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The end is in site!</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuk-z2wNwKZ-227QbbSz5WTBbHQkFXt6okE9x42C8EIBl3Yvf98CEx6KKJOsm9yJcFEo-FkemMFWiGbYaLafuZmoLNcGNck_k1jlsoeTIUr2Jft9b5BDhwR3fbsCPgf1URBO0VMrHd164/s1600/bike+ride+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuk-z2wNwKZ-227QbbSz5WTBbHQkFXt6okE9x42C8EIBl3Yvf98CEx6KKJOsm9yJcFEo-FkemMFWiGbYaLafuZmoLNcGNck_k1jlsoeTIUr2Jft9b5BDhwR3fbsCPgf1URBO0VMrHd164/s400/bike+ride+009.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me @ the end - you can see where the train tracks start up again in the background</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeYVp_MMpXbOTxEkASjiM03TCwpxWSAPHJ1oZ0oa-dwRFGVj0OqwItro4YU_eZ6XgrQB7fZ9w8Ferx_jZBKCg59guldFMQFDc9G_f0cULF5Vy2FnvOPQxo99IaP-f_GIHiRFvltcXTZ0/s1600/bike+ride+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeYVp_MMpXbOTxEkASjiM03TCwpxWSAPHJ1oZ0oa-dwRFGVj0OqwItro4YU_eZ6XgrQB7fZ9w8Ferx_jZBKCg59guldFMQFDc9G_f0cULF5Vy2FnvOPQxo99IaP-f_GIHiRFvltcXTZ0/s400/bike+ride+013.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pieces of old track</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgvBqowjSAc0tuWya14g4a7dAw5af7C8ygm756NXu3EUIuwB8Gn1cTZQ0bzovVLmJMKwt1OzoBwsvcJhypz3KY9dhJG8nUKeaQTkxIpxi-eX0_Bbes6Ep8ujfcCLb0Rr88yw2pfdQEAqg/s1600/bike+ride+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgvBqowjSAc0tuWya14g4a7dAw5af7C8ygm756NXu3EUIuwB8Gn1cTZQ0bzovVLmJMKwt1OzoBwsvcJhypz3KY9dhJG8nUKeaQTkxIpxi-eX0_Bbes6Ep8ujfcCLb0Rr88yw2pfdQEAqg/s400/bike+ride+014.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO1d7HQUdIpGX_Xq6LMLqumRirbG2Ipa7YpSP00hDvfvtNoCIH5gdVR0AdV4t0q8_xukgk0q7cnL9pJHK4-Ycu_Ut_irt_bbfQ1JJUGWbdgvxrOaA058dRktYU8yJbdJJH85InvZmI5CE/s1600/bike+ride+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO1d7HQUdIpGX_Xq6LMLqumRirbG2Ipa7YpSP00hDvfvtNoCIH5gdVR0AdV4t0q8_xukgk0q7cnL9pJHK4-Ycu_Ut_irt_bbfQ1JJUGWbdgvxrOaA058dRktYU8yJbdJJH85InvZmI5CE/s400/bike+ride+016.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My bike and the tracks :)</td></tr></tbody></table>Hopefully I can grab another ride or two on here before Joel and I move to Virginia next week.  It's not like we'll be living <i>that far</i> from this, but it won't be a mile down the road anymore :(.   <br /><br /><i>P.S. I had been meaning to check how far I rode that day, since I don't have a gauge on my bike, and it turns out I rode 6.4 miles!  Yay!</i>

Exercise Success Weight Loss Making Good Choices

Last Friday, I found myself reading Sam's post about having a choice .  I'm glad I did! It was a Friday afterall, I actually had to ...

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The HilJoe Competition - Week 3

Here is the update for the HilJoe Competition - Week 3.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beautyandwell-being.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/weight-scale-400x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.beautyandwell-being.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/weight-scale-400x400.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Joel (6'): 241.8<br />Hilary (5'8"): 256.4</b></div><br />I'm back down to the prior week's weight - yay!  I'm getting closer to those <a href="http://www.shopnewbalance.com/detail.asp?s1=NBAS&s2=buynow&style=WW860KM">new tennis</a> shoes I want so badly!

Exercise GoalsWeight LossExercise HJ Competition Loss Success The HilJoe Competition - Week 3

Here is the update for the HilJoe Competition - Week 3. Joel (6'): 241.8 Hilary (5'8"): 256.4 I'm back down to the prior we...

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Activity Ideas Please!

Lately I've been trying to vary my workout.  Since November I've been going to the gym at least 5 days/week for at least 30 minutes.  In the last month I recently upped this amount to 35 minutes.  By the beginning of July I'll be doing 40 minutes.  <br /><br />However, the gym can be a boring place.  I vary my workout between the elliptical and the ArcTrainer, and I'm one of those people who reads while on the machines.  I've heard a lot of criticism about those who read while working out - i.e. "it's not really 'working out' if you're reading".   I think that's crap.  I still sweat and burn calories - how is that not working out?  It would be extremely boring/agonizing to be on the machines for 35 minutes with no reading material, while constantly glancing at the time.  And in past successful weight loss efforts, this method worked for me perfectly.  Still, it gets boring after awhile.  <br /><br />Since it's almost summertime, and the weather is becoming consistently nicer out, I want to incorporate some other outdoor activities into the mix.  I have four 5K's left, so that helps, though I'm hoping I can find more to sign up for as time goes on.  I also recently discovered the <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/04/bloooower.html">rail trail</a>, so I definitely want to add that in for weekend activity once the 5Ks end.  But those are weekend activities and I'm most concerned with what I can do through the week to mix up the routine? (Mon-Fri)  I'm talking things other than walking outside.  Any ideas?<br /><br />To switch things up, I've recently started doing the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BQ7J70/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B000IHY9TI&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1CY9CFHWG0KYYK4W39V1">Biggest Loser The Workout Vol. 1 DVD</a> that I've had for a few years, but never actually made it through the entire thing.  So completing this DVD has kind of become a mini goal of mine.  I've been going to the gym one day, then doing that DVD the next day, and alternating that.  The DVD also includes strength training, which is definitely something I'm trying to incorporate to aid in the massive amounts of poundage I have left to lose.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i43.tower.com/images/mm106996219/biggest-loser-workout-vol-1-dvd-cover-art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://i43.tower.com/images/mm106996219/biggest-loser-workout-vol-1-dvd-cover-art.jpg" width="135" /></a></div>Do you have any creative ideas for exercise-related activities other than visiting the gym? Any suggestions on workout DVDs?      

Exercise goals Weight Loss Activity Ideas Please!

Lately I've been trying to vary my workout.  Since November I've been going to the gym at least 5 days/week for at least 30 minutes....

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Pushing Through the Pain

<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.endaches.com/images/back_pain/back_pain_250x251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.endaches.com/images/back_pain/back_pain_250x251.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of <a href="http://www.endaches.com/index.php?Keywords=Acute+Lower+Back+Pain&search_type=related2&cat2=Severe+Back+Pain&r=c%3E[X6lZXOp[YNvZ3:u%27f%3Evt%3Cvt%3C4%3C2%3C2%3C23545715%3Ctuzmf2%604/dtt%3C3%3Cjoufsdptnpt%60bggjmjbuf%606%60e3s%60efsq%3CCfiubk%3CCfiubk%3C2859%3C2859%3Cdmfbo%3Cmjtujoht%3Czbipp%3C%27jqvb%60je%3E::d16982e65655:4418cb3125c3f4fdc%27enybsht%3E2341ec3b:1fgdf393e9d4634f641:997&rd=1">here</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table>I've been dealing with some lower back pain this week.  Over the weekend I did a lot of baking for Easter (5.5 hours worth!) and for some reason, being in Joel's kitchen for that length of time has been killing my back.  I never noticed this in my other kitchens though.  <br /><br />Anyhow, yesterday at the gym I did W1D1 of C25K.  I'm not pursuing this program regularly, I simply forgot my magazines that I read while on the elliptical/ArcTrainer and had to find another distraction to keep the time ticking by.  About three-quarters through the C25K, my lower back started to spasm again like it did on Saturday.  In typical Hilary fashion, I would have used any excuse to cut the workout short and go home, but I actually really wanted to finish.  As I reached 26 minutes, shooting pains started resonating through my hips and I had to get off the treadmill.  The pain was literally taking my breath away.  Since my daily workout goal is 35 minutes, and I was only at 26, I figured I'd give the recumbent bike a try since I could sit down comfortably with a nice back rest.  In the end, I could only do 8 minutes on the bike and I had to stop.  By the time I left the gym I was limping out to the car.<br /><br />The back spasms continued all night long, but getting some sleep definitely helped.  I plan to take the day off from the gym and just do hand weights when I get home.  I don't want to chance injury.  <br /><br />What I am proud of here is my perseverance with the workout.  I'm of the mindset that if I take just a day off from exercise, I fear that I may never go back.  It's only been 4 solid, consistent months of hitting the gym and I don't yet feel comfortable with my discipline.  Still, I was proud that I pushed through the pain, until I couldn't walk, and still got most of what I needed to get done accomplished.  Still, I'm very mindful of the signals my body is giving me, and she wants a break!

Exercise Success Pushing Through the Pain

Courtesy of here . I've been dealing with some lower back pain this week.  Over the weekend I did a lot of baking for Easter (5.5 hours ...

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