Changing Things Up: Maintaining Focus

Wednesday night I had the evening to myself.  Such a rare occurrence in my life, especially through the work week.  When Joel and I first started dating, I hated nights like that.  I loved trying to "maximize" the time between us.  However, lately I have an all new appreciation for this precious alone time.  For me, it means getting to focus on myself and what I want to do and when.  I don't have anyone else to cater to or think about - I just do what I want and when I want to do it.  This is when it dawned on me the importance of how maintaining focus will aid in my weight loss. <br /><br />Take last night for example.  I had a clear plan of attack and I executed it beautifully.  As soon as I got home from work, I hurried off to my WW meeting.  After the meeting, I came home and immediately got to work on prepping dinner.  Dinner was a really quick chili cheese dog (turkey hot dog, turkey chili, and reduced fat mozzarella) and a side of spicy vegetables.  Immediately after eating, I quickly cleaned up the kitchen, packed my lunch for the next day, and I was free to enjoy the rest of the evening to do whatever I pleased.  Normally, my evening does not operate this smoothly and efficiently.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNEnpiWV6s4WOFxfednClMtrPvq6D0EONcP7A-9CWottb4chNz_3A4D78IPUuifWH2NYREnXH0BpNvx0ns6PC-l1xWNDUoXThCt4zjAtFA143_ceOUqOTResOy45cMne1_mw5LlbEdvt4/s1600/stop+giving+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNEnpiWV6s4WOFxfednClMtrPvq6D0EONcP7A-9CWottb4chNz_3A4D78IPUuifWH2NYREnXH0BpNvx0ns6PC-l1xWNDUoXThCt4zjAtFA143_ceOUqOTResOy45cMne1_mw5LlbEdvt4/s320/stop+giving+up.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The key for me in last night's dinner escapade is that I was able to maintain focus on one thing.  I wasn't trying to cook dinner, while simultaneously worrying/doing 12 other things.  I'm not wishing I was a single person at all, but how much easier can life be without distractions (I'm sure the mom's can especially relate to this!)?  I am capable of multi-tasking, but I don't prefer it.  I prefer focusing on one task at a time and doing it well.<br /><br />Often times, especially when Joel is home, I don't feel like going to the trouble of making dinner because I feel pulled in so many directions.  I want to spend time with him, and so I'd rather just take a quick route and order out.  I also want to be able to have time to do other things (like catching up on other blogs, writing my own, reading, etc), and the more time I spend cooking, the more time that is taken away from doing those other extracurriculars.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKglBZSxU7oyaTmLmUdh34xlCwUZi9zfuV2Tz2PWCgntcmZst2wCJdWJgVAutDwQMBi4-tmUUcpJ_EbOmGutXTLhQyxMJyYWanjBLzAxd-fEikSU4ygD2Behop9UYobxHA5wMtfpbtD9Q/s1600/couch+lapping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKglBZSxU7oyaTmLmUdh34xlCwUZi9zfuV2Tz2PWCgntcmZst2wCJdWJgVAutDwQMBi4-tmUUcpJ_EbOmGutXTLhQyxMJyYWanjBLzAxd-fEikSU4ygD2Behop9UYobxHA5wMtfpbtD9Q/s1600/couch+lapping.jpg" /></a></div><br />Still, how amazing it felt last night after I was done with dinner in a flash and was easily able to prep my lunch for the next day.  This night reminded me that my health is extremely important to me right now.  Losing weight is extremely important to me right now.  I cannot continue to let life's other distractions keep me from getting to where I want to be.  I cannot constantly be consumed with focusing on others needs (or what I perceive to be their needs) and ignore what Hilary really needs.  I want to be able to have a night like last night every night.  I come home, tackle dinner, prep my meals for the next day (setting myself up for success!) and proceed with life.  I got more accomplished last night in the time I spent alone than I ever do on a typical weeknight.  It was astounding actually.  I truly believe this happened because I had all night to focus on me and what I wanted to do - not what I thought Joel wanted me to do or thinks I should be doing (even if he doesn't).<br /><br /><b style="color: #351c75;">Do you have a hard time staying focused on your weight loss journey?  What things do you let get in the way of your success? </b>

Success Weight Loss Weight Watchers Changing Things Up: Maintaining Focus

Wednesday night I had the evening to myself.  Such a rare occurrence in my life, especially through the work week.  When Joel and I first started dating, I hated nights like that.  I loved trying to "maximize" the time between us.  However, lately I …

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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've gained/lost the same +/- 5 lbs.  As I had been stating for several weeks now, I've had an incredibly hard time getting m…

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Weigh In & ANOTHER WWM & Miscellaneous

Another week in the weight loss journey has come and gone, this time affording me a move in the right direction.  During these last few weeks I've been really struggling with staying On Plan, and that has certainly been a reason why I haven't posted as often.  I've been gaining and losing the same 2.5-3 lbs for weeks now.<br /><br />No one, myself included, wants to hear constant re-declarations of "This is it!" and "It's a new week and I'm going to get my butt back in gear!",  only to find out as the week progresses that I'm not doing so well after all.  I need to refocus and get motivated so I can move past the 30 lbs mark.  I need to go back over the Weight Watchers material to refresh my memory of what I'm supposed to be doing.  I know what this is, but I need to re-read it.  I need to see those words in black/white and "hear" it again.  <br /><br />What I have been doing well is exercising, which is probably why the weight gain hasn't been more significant.  My weekly activity goal has moved up a day, bringing me to three total days of activity.  Most weeks, I've even went beyond those 3 days thanks to lunchtime walks with Katie and Meghan, and weekend excursions with Joel.   Girls - you really don't even know how much I appreciate our little walks!<br /><br />Guess what I received two of in the mail this week?  That's right, another Weight Watchers Magazine! <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/AVvXsEgPAQU8pCW-sCbooz6k5xE6uU18gEGyiUNLIRIgBubyA3iVQUcUSUnakYB1XxdUURcUj652T5GCGM5aBA6-SXYFmC_Lm-PYun6xVxWmLPDEQTXQs9UxPj0qHnWc-zD_Nni9qsjPL_PNF5E/s1600/weight+watchers+may+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPAQU8pCW-sCbooz6k5xE6uU18gEGyiUNLIRIgBubyA3iVQUcUSUnakYB1XxdUURcUj652T5GCGM5aBA6-SXYFmC_Lm-PYun6xVxWmLPDEQTXQs9UxPj0qHnWc-zD_Nni9qsjPL_PNF5E/s400/weight+watchers+may+2012.jpg" width="292" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May/June 2012</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I FINALLY contacted customer service about this, but in the meantime you are going to benefit yet again.  The first person to leave a comment below stating that they want it wins!  Just say you want it then drop me an email with your mailing address (thebigweight@hotmail.com).   <br /><br />This weekend is going to keep me busy between the National MS Walk (there's still time to donate - just click on the button on the right), baby showers and birthday parties, not to mention a wine night with the ladies tonight - I cannot WAIT for that!<br /><br />I'm going to leave you with this ridiculous picture taken last weekend.  We were in Maryland touring some covered bridges and Joel took this pic of me looking up through the floor boards of the bridge.  I can promise you my hair is not <i>that </i>purple!  It was all lighting!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhslAKvjzk89pcywHmlAhOVRmOofKZD4jFknYpie69kY3xMahAv1aitg0y7fUZHbqFslNCJeOk8uMkBiPht3lIUcZeAeXmFxw3W64K_VIignQ0eje07RaxV75PxpOCHeCVwQELmsc6oo2A/s1600/purple+hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhslAKvjzk89pcywHmlAhOVRmOofKZD4jFknYpie69kY3xMahAv1aitg0y7fUZHbqFslNCJeOk8uMkBiPht3lIUcZeAeXmFxw3W64K_VIignQ0eje07RaxV75PxpOCHeCVwQELmsc6oo2A/s400/purple+hair.jpg" width="281" /></a></div><br />Have a great weekend!

Loss Success Walk MS weigh in Weight Watchers Magazine Weigh In & ANOTHER WWM & Miscellaneous

Another week in the weight loss journey has come and gone, this time affording me a move in the right direction.  During these last few weeks I've been really struggling with staying On Plan, and that has certainly been a reason why I haven't posted …

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Weigh In Friday & Other Successes

I've finally gotten around to updating my stats on the left sidebar.  I'm now down 29.9 lbs as of today!  I'm working on getting back down to my lowest weight yet, of 227.1 lbs (during Terrible Awful) so that I can feel good about wearing my weight loss bracelet again.  But I'm not going to discount my recent success - it feels good to be at <i>almost </i>a 30 lbs loss!  This week I took off 2.3 lbs - go me!<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/AVvXsEjVa7f_q6xPnd1K1M8weaVtAA3KB8v-qbcHENDDzXJUJrLNt-PllZRX0GPAEYIQ7xV4sQfLadHmb6IHA2o_wNwFzcnWtM5JrN-quOSVqiXhHZkEqvn4m7cJ6DdkPc52k-OfYil0RbTMldc/s1600/Pansies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVa7f_q6xPnd1K1M8weaVtAA3KB8v-qbcHENDDzXJUJrLNt-PllZRX0GPAEYIQ7xV4sQfLadHmb6IHA2o_wNwFzcnWtM5JrN-quOSVqiXhHZkEqvn4m7cJ6DdkPc52k-OfYil0RbTMldc/s400/Pansies.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spring is in full swing in VA!</td></tr></tbody></table>A few weeks ago I <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2012/03/two-upcoming-5ks.html" target="_blank">wrote about the upcoming 5K's</a> I have for April and May.  I'm so excited to report that the donations are rolling in!  While the previous blog post only spoke of two 5K's, I've since enrolled in the Walk for MS (click on the badge on the left for more info) - another event that I wanted to participate in last year but couldn't due to a conflict with another walk.   To those who have donated, please know that they are much appreciated by myself and these organizations!  And to those who may still want to donate - there is still plenty of time!<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKJOIsLgEkr3fOoWRalI_iTN5qR6irCfBZGUMge-rhb54d3QyJFUmwtdgeiPALX7VoU2b_zH4p4pKB8rUYk9YOIdLlj8EyBVWJBOUB3tbW_CVL8PcPBM8_nzqHZG8wncn7YdSsKU1FzmM/s1600/Tulips+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKJOIsLgEkr3fOoWRalI_iTN5qR6irCfBZGUMge-rhb54d3QyJFUmwtdgeiPALX7VoU2b_zH4p4pKB8rUYk9YOIdLlj8EyBVWJBOUB3tbW_CVL8PcPBM8_nzqHZG8wncn7YdSsKU1FzmM/s400/Tulips+2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnaIT4T49uYSAO9lkywwNlc84SgwSXJkJHI9Y3I0o_KpWCa8aUOR-5VxNisYfK7HYWRDIt4sotldv1fK-t5Uu5f34lb0aJHWmbf6T7UkEKfRINrVB7eT3fQJd_yWsGGIQ86NfWM0vxVyg/s1600/Tulips+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnaIT4T49uYSAO9lkywwNlc84SgwSXJkJHI9Y3I0o_KpWCa8aUOR-5VxNisYfK7HYWRDIt4sotldv1fK-t5Uu5f34lb0aJHWmbf6T7UkEKfRINrVB7eT3fQJd_yWsGGIQ86NfWM0vxVyg/s400/Tulips+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />I don't know about you, but I sure am looking forward to this weekend.  Heck, I'm looking forward to the entire month of April!  For starters, April is my birth month (April 4 to be exact!), Easter is just around the corner - my favorite Sunday, and lastly, every single weekend we have something planned.  I'm going to just pretend that those are all birthday celebration events :).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ88l81_9OysIZqOIGrQ5SgQiJAn7xkYmddkorY06R8takb9oQxwT2FyVKajfIezyBgbwX5J74qEbUm-mdpfktdpLma-dqgaEMCo3tFyAnaag3jElyKq3lIYW1isP_ewfE2IJh9_Bbi9k/s1600/Tulips+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ88l81_9OysIZqOIGrQ5SgQiJAn7xkYmddkorY06R8takb9oQxwT2FyVKajfIezyBgbwX5J74qEbUm-mdpfktdpLma-dqgaEMCo3tFyAnaag3jElyKq3lIYW1isP_ewfE2IJh9_Bbi9k/s400/Tulips+3.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div style="color: #351c75;"><b>Do you have anything planned this weekend?  Are you an April baby?  If so, what day?  </b></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpuDWgwiQUCtcnvV-V6KQeOnw47Nfvr8gXxFRiSyGVmd2jaE4V-ikYe-6F095LGpThdRSmZmBan96wCxA-YEyNe4_RKG0nXwFjq8wyZUnZoSQl228jKe192CxBi9_HPHqx8yAbB3Ij-OQ/s1600/Tulips+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpuDWgwiQUCtcnvV-V6KQeOnw47Nfvr8gXxFRiSyGVmd2jaE4V-ikYe-6F095LGpThdRSmZmBan96wCxA-YEyNe4_RKG0nXwFjq8wyZUnZoSQl228jKe192CxBi9_HPHqx8yAbB3Ij-OQ/s400/Tulips+4.jpg" width="317" /></a></div><br />Have a great 'on plan' weekend friends! <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="color: #999999;">*All pictures were taken with my Blackberry Torch outside of my office just this past week!*</i></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />

Great Strides Loss March for Babies March of Dimes Success Walk MS weigh in Weigh In Friday & Other Successes

I've finally gotten around to updating my stats on the left sidebar.  I'm now down 29.9 lbs as of today!  I'm working on getting back down to my lowest weight yet, of 227.1 lbs (during Terrible Awful) so that I can feel good about wearing my weight l…

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Happy Valentine's Day!

I want to wish you and your loved one{s} a <i>very </i><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #351c75;">Happy Valentine's Day</span></b>!  I hope you're enjoying this day that is dedicated to love - why <i>not </i>have a holiday dedicated to one of God's most wonderful gifts?<br /><br />I know some people do not enjoy this love-inspired day, but I do!  I love it, and I loved it even when I was single.<br /><br />Thanks to Pinterest, there are endless ideas for days like today.<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/AVvXsEgH6YllQU4Q47FzC2Ndp-44F_IPOxWI2Py3_D7W7CbxRwpkmtiBajSt-xlnVkl_YIR4co8qeZuCintP2mOCTXSaP-bNe3rJ5G6pk2N7FIZQbkRiN6HM62XkqX2tUa-vkPXDgogS9dbMsQY/s1600/valentine+breakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6YllQU4Q47FzC2Ndp-44F_IPOxWI2Py3_D7W7CbxRwpkmtiBajSt-xlnVkl_YIR4co8qeZuCintP2mOCTXSaP-bNe3rJ5G6pk2N7FIZQbkRiN6HM62XkqX2tUa-vkPXDgogS9dbMsQY/s400/valentine+breakfast.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joel's breakfast from Saturday</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I really enjoy doing things for others, especially when I can put something together for them that is both something I know they'll like, but also allows me to exercise my creative muscles.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT30UL-KL4kU6MpRgA6KBhjsGzAYS5yUZQumc_mmcav4APze2T3s_1i_-qD-UqMEntw0d4_TGW9CbjZGjpz6ErZQp-ynNbKp9Qvin4AGm4VuXJy-FoF9OTksS_mwB8La6e3jHL-nl5S6A/s1600/joel%2527s+valentine+gift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT30UL-KL4kU6MpRgA6KBhjsGzAYS5yUZQumc_mmcav4APze2T3s_1i_-qD-UqMEntw0d4_TGW9CbjZGjpz6ErZQp-ynNbKp9Qvin4AGm4VuXJy-FoF9OTksS_mwB8La6e3jHL-nl5S6A/s400/joel%2527s+valentine+gift.jpg" width="297" /></a></div><br />Joel surprisingly doesn't mind wearing boxers that have hearts on them.  Every year I buy him v-day themed undies and he always wears them throughout the entire year.  <span style="color: #999999;">{I almost always get them at Target - they always have cute ones!}  </span><br /><br />By the way, could there be a better gift for a fisherman on Valentine's Day? <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Y9H-pLldIX-vQeb3fo-OUuw5tz_kWEA20mJcKuBoa6HNQqOTPj2M3S8QoK1TpRo-bhWeVWIdDGIl7Im7NHH7AG3KonU5X3wJVy-fphxFJoSI31b5Q7BhlLOk0PAZh7GX01fs3pX8Q2w/s1600/joel%2527s+valentine+gift+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Y9H-pLldIX-vQeb3fo-OUuw5tz_kWEA20mJcKuBoa6HNQqOTPj2M3S8QoK1TpRo-bhWeVWIdDGIl7Im7NHH7AG3KonU5X3wJVy-fphxFJoSI31b5Q7BhlLOk0PAZh7GX01fs3pX8Q2w/s400/joel%2527s+valentine+gift+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />Then there are these cuties.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEETpHGeopq7UU96hFHCXzUvl0NFGlyXIuJD5xySz59AzMP6Wno-FutDvIWYv2ZHzQLoVeM_1Apkhn3SzQ6dwQDTmDkUNl-oxuH2niKvRYYQCIqdZ69gLC8TxMsHqFEcUIbqMxaWwbedk/s1600/ww+vday+cupcakes+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEETpHGeopq7UU96hFHCXzUvl0NFGlyXIuJD5xySz59AzMP6Wno-FutDvIWYv2ZHzQLoVeM_1Apkhn3SzQ6dwQDTmDkUNl-oxuH2niKvRYYQCIqdZ69gLC8TxMsHqFEcUIbqMxaWwbedk/s400/ww+vday+cupcakes+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />And friends, that's as far as it goes with these mini Weight Watchers Red Velvet Cupcakes {from the January 2012 issue}.  They sucked! Whole wheat flour really doesn't cut it when you're trying to achieve the goodness that is red velvet.  I think Joel said it well: "They taste like bread."<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo3gIqQksERfMm-Zii2Vba5Xj5EPgqFnsXgbgspTI6_JgY2MxaQUR3bdjWtaUekXPwvCdp696xmjlTJtnurEQ0lYo5P08WirK7QrqEbZ2k1lDR2MczwOY_GArsVt-V1mufq0V1hlIjvB0/s1600/ww+vday+cupcakes+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo3gIqQksERfMm-Zii2Vba5Xj5EPgqFnsXgbgspTI6_JgY2MxaQUR3bdjWtaUekXPwvCdp696xmjlTJtnurEQ0lYo5P08WirK7QrqEbZ2k1lDR2MczwOY_GArsVt-V1mufq0V1hlIjvB0/s400/ww+vday+cupcakes+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Now this little gem on the other hand.... perfecto!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4KgyNQL4EzwzFi6WVFvcH0jvm2Dom_dF5OqjWH1LklYawwm-ddwzNmwKiZrThyphenhyphen9yfH9233TKkuGrr5kDTmjbaNIW7uhQ7kks3wZfhClbAh_eENdB_RRkwccwHxaN5w60D93fiE4xv-VQ/s1600/red+velvet+cake+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4KgyNQL4EzwzFi6WVFvcH0jvm2Dom_dF5OqjWH1LklYawwm-ddwzNmwKiZrThyphenhyphen9yfH9233TKkuGrr5kDTmjbaNIW7uhQ7kks3wZfhClbAh_eENdB_RRkwccwHxaN5w60D93fiE4xv-VQ/s400/red+velvet+cake+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Adapted from the Better Homes & Gardens Breast Cancer cookbook <span style="color: #999999;">{and tweaked with advice from my gynecologist, who moonlights as a professional pastry chef!}</span>,  this Red Waldorf Cake was both dense <i>and </i>moist.  This is the<a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/12/weigh-in-weekly-goals-more-christmas.html" target="_blank"> same cake I made at Christmas time</a>, but that one was fairly dry.  After talking with my doctor, she informed me that red velvet is a tricky cake for which to achieve perfect moistness. But I'm proud to say I did.  This time I baked these in mini-heart shaped spring-form pans purchased at Target. The same batter used to make the previous cake, also made six personal heart-shaped cakes as well {taken to a friend's house for a dinner date}.  By the way, this cake is named Red Waldorf Cake because the Waldorf-Astoria hotel were the creators of what we know today as Red Velvet Cake.<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/AVvXsEgo9jmH2enPXs8OgmjeUorYb67GuXPXGpzm3exTO8VJ0CzB9Mevvr6yAjf4_rC1ENEwAeoq5C0SdH4kO_GJ1m908DTT0cuc4VlkeBzo5xCAooxj-vuP4Xoq5L1bfZsgrOxlzZ94IFWNlZU/s1600/red+velvet+cake+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo9jmH2enPXs8OgmjeUorYb67GuXPXGpzm3exTO8VJ0CzB9Mevvr6yAjf4_rC1ENEwAeoq5C0SdH4kO_GJ1m908DTT0cuc4VlkeBzo5xCAooxj-vuP4Xoq5L1bfZsgrOxlzZ94IFWNlZU/s400/red+velvet+cake+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Divine.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b style="color: #674ea7;">How About That Weight Loss?</b><br /><br /><br />I had another successful weigh in last Friday, removing another 0.7 lbs for a total loss of 28.6 lbs!  Very exciting!<br /><br />It took a while to receive my goal "prizes" from the previous weigh in, but alas, they came!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccrorFteABsyVFbid9B8aaSxqUQdCkUaz7HQinB0G93LQcWN_cR08OkNImUdrcfWOjtGhCn_df_Uc0KIPeU89DMauc9q-nK6wNwq1_wPI9wyA9hThUQNwvWnd_AxZzOTOewT16qTLJjI/s1600/bracelet+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccrorFteABsyVFbid9B8aaSxqUQdCkUaz7HQinB0G93LQcWN_cR08OkNImUdrcfWOjtGhCn_df_Uc0KIPeU89DMauc9q-nK6wNwq1_wPI9wyA9hThUQNwvWnd_AxZzOTOewT16qTLJjI/s400/bracelet+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> She's really getting filled up.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBLS7eX5mNEJFYLrEs2m4cCGba_Ox5iuH3-IJ5p-kthM9yba-pA5NMJ3LipnzpsrYJhMjHzVMhZnenBOP29HE9k9Jw2XDUcO_ecVYo3X0-21zPCgphQa4vUx3GUA9HYp5_uFxQ5y5AN4/s1600/bracelet+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBLS7eX5mNEJFYLrEs2m4cCGba_Ox5iuH3-IJ5p-kthM9yba-pA5NMJ3LipnzpsrYJhMjHzVMhZnenBOP29HE9k9Jw2XDUcO_ecVYo3X0-21zPCgphQa4vUx3GUA9HYp5_uFxQ5y5AN4/s400/bracelet+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />The Penn State one and the bead immediately to the right of it are the two new ones.   I love them both, and I'm so proud to be displaying my Alma Mater as part of my weight loss journey.  We are tough cookies, us Pennsylvanians :).  That is what the Penn State charm represents.  <br /><br />The jewelry hanger is proving to be an AMAZING purchase.  I should have taken a before picture of my dresser - it was a nightmare of tangled necklaces.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRE0K7ISomYboBqopro2A0gscl9tnvUlCMdQ-JGp3zuvc8YBj1CKHT6pO-kU3SgqRBwIsUhxwhB97tYf76ka6W2XedgAcEZWFzH1RGnGlm64clRUeIqUvrE4jnoOfynymHLB85QUYVHfE/s1600/jewelry+hanger+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRE0K7ISomYboBqopro2A0gscl9tnvUlCMdQ-JGp3zuvc8YBj1CKHT6pO-kU3SgqRBwIsUhxwhB97tYf76ka6W2XedgAcEZWFzH1RGnGlm64clRUeIqUvrE4jnoOfynymHLB85QUYVHfE/s400/jewelry+hanger+3.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><br />Not now!  Thanks to that little Etsy shop for this perfect jewelery organizer!<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/AVvXsEgF_iJB-9K29wF4-BTlDfy-BvJERhH8rsGcpxxq_ioLFTxwq1G3cKWViaGkNiKo_ZcMAkWT0LF8fKdrB9bMdIMyrwRZvXgg0xIe-vLgHrxeZUZegPzoIgUk2bqJn-blg0hBVVTi8mNr9vU/s1600/jewelry+hanger+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF_iJB-9K29wF4-BTlDfy-BvJERhH8rsGcpxxq_ioLFTxwq1G3cKWViaGkNiKo_ZcMAkWT0LF8fKdrB9bMdIMyrwRZvXgg0xIe-vLgHrxeZUZegPzoIgUk2bqJn-blg0hBVVTi8mNr9vU/s400/jewelry+hanger+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">notice how some earrings don't have their mate.  Thank YOU Charles!</td></tr></tbody></table>I absolutely love this weight loss award.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIX4VdnpmJ3oX4nJmBLHEFjkPMvc0SClCUCuqWf-K2McO85mtV1zJxaqbDQ_BoY7PG-RzK16sgRmJdNNoqCmhf3twpxgzZAOfaOcvLIumkJPGNbMneWEPIqsCc2Wn8-UEtKL-42ZSL44/s1600/jewelry+hanger+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIX4VdnpmJ3oX4nJmBLHEFjkPMvc0SClCUCuqWf-K2McO85mtV1zJxaqbDQ_BoY7PG-RzK16sgRmJdNNoqCmhf3twpxgzZAOfaOcvLIumkJPGNbMneWEPIqsCc2Wn8-UEtKL-42ZSL44/s400/jewelry+hanger+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Other than all that, I'm still chugging away at school {again, why my posts are lacking!} and trying not to indulge too much in the V-day goodness.  As of today, I've only completed 1/2 workouts for the week.  While I don't like to let it go this long into the week, I had a very packed weekend and zero time to squeeze in both gym visits.  I plan to go either Wednesday or Thursday.  <br /><br />Happy Lovey-Love Day!

Better Homes and Gardens Breast Cancer Cookbook goals Inspiration Success Valentine's Day Happy Valentine's Day!

I want to wish you and your loved one{s} a very Happy Valentine's Day!  I hope you're enjoying this day that is dedicated to love - why not have a holiday dedicated to one of God's most wonderful gifts?I know some people do not enjoy this love-inspir…

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Weigh In Results & What Worked This Week

There are a number of things that I believe contributed to my <b><span style="color: #351c75;">amazing </span></b>loss this week.<br /><div style="color: #351c75;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="color: #351c75;"><b><u style="color: #674ea7;">What Worked This Week</u>:</b></div>1. <b>Decreasing my DPT from 39 to 38.</b>  I've been at a 39 Daily PointsPlus Target for several weeks now.  I wanted to switch things up to see what decreasing it by 1 PointsPlus would do.  Turns out it did a lot!  Though I know this wasn't the only contributing factor, and I'll explain more.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJIYrfSrAY9P2uKQnFsAtXziOsqJf_zfJ8NAPmGlJZIrT6jlBNnjCR6NT1-Pbg6WjUCqCMIunBHCvZevTfBRkkiC1vc7pXpd3IA-VXv2LuyMVEuz_IELsxYIboA04lIQOoEGHgiThyphenhyphenDZE/s1600/DPT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJIYrfSrAY9P2uKQnFsAtXziOsqJf_zfJ8NAPmGlJZIrT6jlBNnjCR6NT1-Pbg6WjUCqCMIunBHCvZevTfBRkkiC1vc7pXpd3IA-VXv2LuyMVEuz_IELsxYIboA04lIQOoEGHgiThyphenhyphenDZE/s1600/DPT.JPG" /></a></div><br />2. <b>Plenty of fruit.</b>  The bulk of my snacks this week were of the fruit kind: strawberries and blueberries.  I've heard some meeting members in the past say that if they eat too much fruit, they either don't lose or they gain. For someone whose sweet tooth is the size of my head, eating fruit in place of chocolate or some other snack that is on the sugary side was a much better alternative.  Not to mention the fact that it was filling AND 0 PointsPlus!  And, let's be honest, I did not get to 263.8 lbs by overeating fruit! <br /><br />3. <b>Filling Breakfasts</b>.  This week I had another oatmeal breakfast. If I give myself a delicious and filling breakfast, it really sets the tone for the rest of my day {<i>most </i>of the time}.  I find I am less ravenous throughout the day.  Oatmeal in and of itself is filling, but add some dried apricots, dried blueberries, and a little splash of milk and it's right on par.  I tried this oatmeal from my Weight Watchers cookbook called Baked Fruit Cinnamon Oatmeal {7 PointsPlus}.  So good!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJXlCNP6Pn0ZRzRcJ7nYu1P3q_FEP2LGstnjCozUxY_czjKAbMObMjB5qfCpDrDNgfvQeQbJ0sBIEOmoX19mc03vqyXx2McB1b4VkzfPgPGfUagGoSfcmNlDMckeTXG-O4pM1UZJI16E/s1600/ww+new+complete+cookbook.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJXlCNP6Pn0ZRzRcJ7nYu1P3q_FEP2LGstnjCozUxY_czjKAbMObMjB5qfCpDrDNgfvQeQbJ0sBIEOmoX19mc03vqyXx2McB1b4VkzfPgPGfUagGoSfcmNlDMckeTXG-O4pM1UZJI16E/s320/ww+new+complete+cookbook.JPG" width="284" /></a></div><br /><br />4. <b>Meeting Weekly Activity Goal.</b>  Again, this week I got in both days of activity.  That definitely helped me drop the weight!<br /><br />5. <b>Not Eating All of My DPT.</b>  There were 3 days this week that I didn't eat all of my 38 PointsPlus.  I didn't do this on purpose, it was just because I was busy and food was not on my mind.  What does that tell you? I typically eat because I'm bored and it gives me something to do.  This week I was busy with school, among other things, and thinking about food wasn't at the forefront.<br /><br />6. <b>Allowing One "Indulgent Meal" Per Week.</b>  I've been living by this rule since the start of the new year.  I allow myself one meal each week where I can eat whatever I want.  Yes, I still count it {even if it puts me in the red for the Weekly PointsPlus}, but I enjoy it without guilt.  I don't feel deprived and when I find myself craving an indulgent meal {which for me, this just means going out to eat and consuming whatever I want}, I remind myself that I can have it next week for my "indulgent meal".<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/AVvXsEgqJwMSM62rTLGTwrCM_sDst4PfoYGXAjNkFd0213i6EynsmS-djh40jGRUts-JdlkIytU8EO3UNZEK8axsrn-0H7YtA5kQqSSX7OsFHR6Y1u1je4uu2nNoyT9uWGJGh9KVnMpN-lVyDCE/s1600/cieling+fan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqJwMSM62rTLGTwrCM_sDst4PfoYGXAjNkFd0213i6EynsmS-djh40jGRUts-JdlkIytU8EO3UNZEK8axsrn-0H7YtA5kQqSSX7OsFHR6Y1u1je4uu2nNoyT9uWGJGh9KVnMpN-lVyDCE/s400/cieling+fan.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the ceiling fan at a pizza shop where last week's indulgent meal was consumed!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="color: #674ea7;"><b><u>Upcoming Challenges This Week</u>:</b></div><ul><li><b>Super Bowl Sunday.</b>  We are going to a party on Sunday afternoon.  I'm making some food for it, but it's not really PointsPlus friendly food {I don't intend on eating it either, it's just what I was asked to bring}. So, having said that, I do plan to make at least one more dish that is WW friendly, which will most likely be <a href="http://www.hungry-girl.com/newsletters/raw/745" target="_blank">these</a>.</li></ul><div style="color: #674ea7;"><br /></div><span style="color: #674ea7;"> </span><b style="color: #674ea7;"><u>Weigh In Results</u>:</b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7uWX9Jh57QroTc3oQaj-bWilwmRw-PI86r7hsAlnAOoOoiZ1ORgCPEdHXGyQBHW3so0_o7oH4HqnrWz9WZonG8vEP_ORRQtLfrF746xMAuCwR8D-zx5NWbNnIQTtrL8gzEktyzgS9iRU/s1600/scale.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7uWX9Jh57QroTc3oQaj-bWilwmRw-PI86r7hsAlnAOoOoiZ1ORgCPEdHXGyQBHW3so0_o7oH4HqnrWz9WZonG8vEP_ORRQtLfrF746xMAuCwR8D-zx5NWbNnIQTtrL8gzEktyzgS9iRU/s1600/scale.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">   <b>Hilary (5'8")</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Starting Weight: <span style="color: black;">263.8</span></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><b>Current Weight: 235.9</b></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">This week I lost 5.1 lbs!  AND I met <i><b>two </b></i><a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/p/goals.html" target="_blank">goals</a>!!!!!!!  I reached another 5 lbs goal AND I reached my first 10% goal as well. This means I get two charms and one other reward.  This is what I'm getting:</span><br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span style="color: black;">1. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82637669/jewelry-display-holder-cabinet-grade?ref=sr_906ba8f6168e1dde064c918da815dfb5410d78f651f00462338779b1722c3565_1320777427_14107390_necklace_holder" target="_blank">The Jewelry Organizer</a>.  I have an endless supply of necklaces and earrings that are a constant tangled mess.  Not to mention that Charles likes to use my earrings as his toys!  This gem is coming from the Etsy store <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/JewelryHoldersForYou?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Jewelry Holders for You</a>.</span></blockquote><span style="color: black;"> </span></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCFZT3WOeZ4qKy0ua5JrPgtWP5ySJk8sR68A1AMpZMUEs00X_I6no5uRWACgTvSPewf8gtVwLmvadImcAj90OqAdh6wYvDJu9vBoXrT0Rb7ZJNTGTirfFZ2W_R516-eBvJB69tTBiut0s/s1600/jewelery+hanger+reward.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCFZT3WOeZ4qKy0ua5JrPgtWP5ySJk8sR68A1AMpZMUEs00X_I6no5uRWACgTvSPewf8gtVwLmvadImcAj90OqAdh6wYvDJu9vBoXrT0Rb7ZJNTGTirfFZ2W_R516-eBvJB69tTBiut0s/s400/jewelery+hanger+reward.jpg" width="326" /></a></div><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><div style="color: black;">2. Charms.  I've already chosen the one charm I am getting for sure, and it's in honor of my beloved alma mater:</div></blockquote><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/AVvXsEit3Nu63X-6V-wSOGE_Tqa3FRyeG9B23mJDshSiBo0MD3-RfTAffGfzFjdaPXwshfRUx_b3pBqfBYZiPrFSzUQOf5irGPm1qhd2Iaq3wWTf3oZycyDrJysXmXwKnpMx8zfn61zxYIejlxY/s1600/psu+charm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3Nu63X-6V-wSOGE_Tqa3FRyeG9B23mJDshSiBo0MD3-RfTAffGfzFjdaPXwshfRUx_b3pBqfBYZiPrFSzUQOf5irGPm1qhd2Iaq3wWTf3oZycyDrJysXmXwKnpMx8zfn61zxYIejlxY/s200/psu+charm.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sold on Ebay by <a href="http://stores.ebay.com/BeadazzlingBeadsdotCom?_trksid=p4340.l2563" target="_blank">Bedazzling Beads</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"><insert charm="" penn="" pic="" state=""></insert></span></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: left;"><blockquote class="tr_bq"><div style="color: black;">I'm going this evening to pick out my other charm.  Sorry Pandora, but I am not going with you this time on the charm selection.  These beauties are on my <a href="http://chamilia.com/" target="_blank">Chamilia</a> wishlist {I'm only getting one}:</div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlk5CbqYurfLP-vqdzbMjcfTXqqRgZ-MdRfvKmComrf0729vGbRMGcsrrbeP88fuYKiWpzfDMZBzR-Y3z5iOAQcRFzHYTVs02GqCl2R0DjUPB-OR-_C2Ohy3Pg0pzsxgqiT8ngFOuYh_k/s1600/chamilia+beads.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlk5CbqYurfLP-vqdzbMjcfTXqqRgZ-MdRfvKmComrf0729vGbRMGcsrrbeP88fuYKiWpzfDMZBzR-Y3z5iOAQcRFzHYTVs02GqCl2R0DjUPB-OR-_C2Ohy3Pg0pzsxgqiT8ngFOuYh_k/s400/chamilia+beads.JPG" width="165" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: black;">I've also updated my <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/p/progress-pictures.html" target="_blank">progress pics</a>, which, I honestly cannot say that I see much of a difference in those pictures just yet.  The most I can see is with my face.  The first set of pictures were taken at an odd angle, and I'm trying to be consistent with the angle now so it more accurately shows the losses.  </span><span style="color: black;">But that's okay, I can FEEL the difference that 27.9 lbs removed makes.... and it's a lot!</span><br /><b><br /></b><br /><b>What is working for you this week?</b> <span style="color: black;"> </span></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"><insert jewelery="" organizer="" pic=""></insert></span></div><div style="color: #351c75; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"><insert chamilia="" charms=""> </insert></span><b></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

goals Inspiration Loss Success Weight Loss Weight Watchers Weigh In Results & What Worked This Week

There are a number of things that I believe contributed to my amazing loss this week.What Worked This Week:1. Decreasing my DPT from 39 to 38.  I've been at a 39 Daily PointsPlus Target for several weeks now.  I wanted to switch things up to see what…

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Weigh In & Weekly Goals

I just have to blurt this out because I can hardly contain the excitement I have for this week's weight in!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>I lost 1.7 lbs, bringing me down to 242.7!!!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">242.7 is a record low weight since I've started this journey in March 2011.  Not only <i>that</i>, BUT I have now removed 21.1 pounds of weight.  AND, now that I've met another 10 pound goal, a giveaway is fast approaching!  AND, now that I've met another <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/p/goals.html">smaller goal</a>, I get to buy my VB bag & Pandora Charm.  Stay tuned :).  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">These are the potential charm choices:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><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/AVvXsEhrIpkgjUnJVr6fPQsYiIFc9TUspJaf0Rf7aPoguYLh2osKEjpNjq1MUA26QxN1hNtsXpJ_5JbeOOBjlI_PWtFZ100-Sk9PmyoDPqGGbz1odZYoT_M-iHFWpvxASpDJrMbiBX0PTSSJApY/s1600/charm+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrIpkgjUnJVr6fPQsYiIFc9TUspJaf0Rf7aPoguYLh2osKEjpNjq1MUA26QxN1hNtsXpJ_5JbeOOBjlI_PWtFZ100-Sk9PmyoDPqGGbz1odZYoT_M-iHFWpvxASpDJrMbiBX0PTSSJApY/s1600/charm+2.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Inner Strength</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/AVvXsEjUNqlcnvmBqanmTwqiHOwMLnypoN5V1V3RAO3QEyBTxgAqsb9D4xa5G4EBFMgawrF6jvBDCc_68MbX_rUxC3JmAN9EvSsc4nOOrKAz3cc5Yyw1FUhIk1gbT4HT1LW12_lfztDHNCFOnj4/s1600/bead+pink+flowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNqlcnvmBqanmTwqiHOwMLnypoN5V1V3RAO3QEyBTxgAqsb9D4xa5G4EBFMgawrF6jvBDCc_68MbX_rUxC3JmAN9EvSsc4nOOrKAz3cc5Yyw1FUhIk1gbT4HT1LW12_lfztDHNCFOnj4/s1600/bead+pink+flowers.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink Flowers Bead</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/AVvXsEiQNJCZOShxSL3r_pHaIelIB5aYQVTcwK0voFwkcBfQkXHcXSfdLT-Pj4zhpgWQRxzZ2qsnJhmZOR9CTxs_xY_FPCpnZ8MN25sdlA0Bs2WnZjnyuD1c9K-OXGSPoxYcYhN0tcMo3dpEM4o/s1600/bead+pink+polka+dots.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQNJCZOShxSL3r_pHaIelIB5aYQVTcwK0voFwkcBfQkXHcXSfdLT-Pj4zhpgWQRxzZ2qsnJhmZOR9CTxs_xY_FPCpnZ8MN25sdlA0Bs2WnZjnyuD1c9K-OXGSPoxYcYhN0tcMo3dpEM4o/s1600/bead+pink+polka+dots.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink Polka Dots</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/AVvXsEhrEDC5CN3_uUu9I2wzKQ6olkSxecaivoe7HxbFw-SCe_epeqKytz_HCDTOuOgx_NFJ5Nlcs07SCCQFNRq9BVkGjlsBAP5t1QzCCZj7Pe4w5V9flwGsRHst4baQrruIV8jOUUvY2rQVZxU/s1600/lavender+murano.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrEDC5CN3_uUu9I2wzKQ6olkSxecaivoe7HxbFw-SCe_epeqKytz_HCDTOuOgx_NFJ5Nlcs07SCCQFNRq9BVkGjlsBAP5t1QzCCZj7Pe4w5V9flwGsRHst4baQrruIV8jOUUvY2rQVZxU/s200/lavender+murano.JPG" width="143" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lavender Candy Stripe</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">I'd like to add some color to my bracelet, so that is why I am so heavy on the glass beads.  Your thoughts?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is the bag I'm looking at:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><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/AVvXsEigeHVLVfqDsjvcki8eM4D2JvbtruqkAzbQeJzahaNDMfaonWq4lypfrb1cOVx-2e4bPG6iK1citWP_uT1_yQvbVgqYKYF_vMzjxtJl1iwQ5CTGsYYhxnLHl6aUaflT6H6_7NCAT628WJY/s1600/side+by+side+tote.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigeHVLVfqDsjvcki8eM4D2JvbtruqkAzbQeJzahaNDMfaonWq4lypfrb1cOVx-2e4bPG6iK1citWP_uT1_yQvbVgqYKYF_vMzjxtJl1iwQ5CTGsYYhxnLHl6aUaflT6H6_7NCAT628WJY/s320/side+by+side+tote.JPG" width="248" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side by Side Tote - Rhythm & Blues</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm so incredibly proud of myself, especially after <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/12/weekend-recap.html">this week's events</a>.  After the cookie meltdown, I tried hard to stay within my 39 Points+ this week, and did really well on both Wednesday and Thursday, not evening consuming all 39.  That's okay though, because I definitely went over my Weekly Points+ again despite the <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/12/weigh-in-results.html">goals</a> I set.  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here's what happened with last week's weekly goals:</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><blockquote class="tr_bq"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: blue;">Goals for the week:</span></b><br />Stay within daily Points+ allowance for 5 of the 7 days. - <b><i>I achieved 2 of the 7 days.  Not superb.</i></b><br /><br /><b style="color: blue;">Potential Challenges + Solutions:</b></div><ol><li>Weekend lunch date with the ladies.  <b><i>I was proud of how I did with this, eating only half the sandwich and a few fries.</i></b></li><li>Cookie Madness.  <i><b>I definitely indulged not only that night, but one other night later this week.  </b><b>*Sigh*  Moving on...</b></i></li></ol><b style="color: blue;">Planned Activity: </b><br /><i><b>I went to the gym on Wednesday and did 37  minutes on the elliptical.  I'll take it!  I earned 4 Activity Points+ and was pleased with that effort, even if I didn't meet my goal of 2 days (though totally doable, someone is just l-a-z-y!).</b></i></blockquote><br /><br />Here are my new goals for the week.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPHHXZcGayhBxS9vC7YcoFq6_ZHzGYSWuOo-BlOdbMWpof09vHPM20Oa2UQfXqzy0bmBTUxveiaJW5X_APpzAfF_nB2GxclJGudMWazU-Mg7SUXmA6CUvvFRcVYsiloZLUl2ZEVaEQ0A/s1600/weight-watchers-diet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPHHXZcGayhBxS9vC7YcoFq6_ZHzGYSWuOo-BlOdbMWpof09vHPM20Oa2UQfXqzy0bmBTUxveiaJW5X_APpzAfF_nB2GxclJGudMWazU-Mg7SUXmA6CUvvFRcVYsiloZLUl2ZEVaEQ0A/s1600/weight-watchers-diet.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="color: blue;">Goals for the week:</span></b><br />Stay within daily Points+ allowance for 5 of the 7 days. If I have to delve in to the Weekly Points+ allowance, I want to use no more than 39 of them, leaving a balance of 10. <br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><b style="color: blue;">Potential Challenges + Solutions:</b></div><ol><li><b>Office Holiday Happy Hour:</b> There will be drinking and eating.  Thankfully most of the food being served  I don't like.  To combat this I plan to eat my lunch before the HH (it starts at 12).  I will definitely want to have a drink, but will try to limit it to no more than 2-3.</li><li><b>Going over daily Points+ allowance:</b>  I struggle with this every week.  Rarely am I ever able to achieve a perfect week of staying within my daily Points+.  You know why?  Poor planning.  As they say, without a plan, plan to fail.  What I need to do to stay on track is make sure my breakfasts/lunches are packed the night before.  Also, I need to make sure I have plenty of healthful snacks, including 0 Points+ fruits/vegetables to snack on when I have cravings and 0 Points+ left for the day.   </li></ol><b style="color: blue;">Planned Activity: </b><br />I wrote up an activity schedule for the week, but realizing that I have to reacclimate myself to getting back to the gym, I'm going to aim for 2 days of the gym this week again.  If I do more, then it will be a bonus.  Also, I tried out that new feature on eTools where it gives you a weekly Activity Points+ to work toward, and mine is 14.  I'm going to try to reach that this week in whatever way I can.<br /><br />What are your weekend plans?  I still need to get some Christmas shopping done.  Joel and I are going to check out a wedding venue on Saturday, and we're going to take our Christmas card picture as well.  I'm so behind this year :(.  It's making me crazy!

Success Weekly Weight Watchers Goals Weight Loss Weight Loss Challenges Weight Watchers Weigh In & Weekly Goals

I just have to blurt this out because I can hardly contain the excitement I have for this week's weight in!I lost 1.7 lbs, bringing me down to 242.7!!!242.7 is a record low weight since I've started this journey in March 2011.  Not only that, BUT I h…

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4th Weigh in Results + Sickness Update

Today brings Joel and I to our 4th weigh in together - with stellar results yet again!<br /><br />But first, the update on my sickness.  After work on Wednesday, I went to the local urgent care center and the nurse practitioner there deduced that I had food poisoning.   And because I had not been eating or drinking (pretty much, <i>at all</i>), I had become dehydrated.  The dehydration is what caused the heart palpitations.  She explained why at the time, and it made sense, but don't ask me to reiterate :).   My job was to go on the BRAT diet for 24 hours to get my GI-tract back to normal (i.e. so that all things I do consume don't immediately exit my body out the other end!).  If you've ever had dehydrated children, or know someone yourself who has been dehydrated, then you've probably heard of BRAT:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>B</b>ananas</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>R</b>ice</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>A</b>pplesauce</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>T</b>oast</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>These are foods that will "stop you up", causing your body to start to retain some nutrients and not simply pass everything right through your system as quick as it went in.  I was also advised NOT to drink any water, but to drink Gatorade (I've been drinking the Powerade Zero - no calories), tea, diet soda, and/or chicken broth.  Water actually helps aid..... I'm just gonna go ahead and say it here, because we're all adults right?.... <i>diarrhea</i>.  So does milk.  And those are 2 things that I consume a lot of on a regular basis.  Even on Wednesday, I had tried to start normalizing myself and I started the day off with milk and 3 bottles of water - bad idea I realized about 30 minutes later!<br /><br />So for 24 hours, I ate rice/chicken broth, applesauce, toast and saltines (saltines was a sub-category of the toast).  AND, the heart palpitations have subsided substantially (by biggest concern).  By the time those 24 hours were up, I was the hungriest I had been all week.  All I wanted was a nice slice of lasagna (hence the trip to the Olive Garden)! <br /><br />Still, recognizing that I was sick this week and I didn't eat at all like I normally would, I had a 4.2 pound loss from last week.  BUT, I cannot help but be excited.  A loss is a loss and I'll take it!  I have not seen 247.6 on the scale in probably more than a year.  That means I've also met another one of my <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/p/goals.html">5 pound goals</a> and today/tomorrow I will be going out to buy my Pandora bracelet and first charm - I'm so excited!! <br /><br />While I do hope to maintain this current weight loss in the upcoming weeks, I will not be too shocked if come next week I have gained a little, especially if I can get myself back to eating normally this week, which is slowly but surely starting to happen.  I'm not trying to stick to the BRAT forever :).  <i>But I will cross that bridge when I get there next week.  </i><br /><br />I have viewed this incident as a means for God reminding me that I shouldn't continuously put crap into my body - even if I do have the Points+ values for it!  Now, I'm not saying God was like - "punish this girl - poison her!!"  No, He doesn't do that.  But, everything happens for a reason.  This "clean out" of my system this week has made me only want to put good things <i>back in</i> to my fragile stomach, and not taint it with junk.    <br /><br />But, alas, the results:<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.loosemyobesity.com/index_files/page13-1008-full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.loosemyobesity.com/index_files/page13-1008-full.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.loosemyobesity.com/">source</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <b>Joel (6'): 225.6</b><br /><b> Hilary (5'8"): 247.6</b></div><br />If you're on a weight loss journey, how did you do this week?  Would you "count" this weight loss this week if you were me? 

Loss Success Weight Loss Weight Watchers 4th Weigh in Results + Sickness Update

Today brings Joel and I to our 4th weigh in together - with stellar results yet again!But first, the update on my sickness.  After work on Wednesday, I went to the local urgent care center and the nurse practitioner there deduced that I had food po…

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Weigh In and Weekend Plans

I guess all that struggling didn't matter after all, because I dropped 1.8 lbs this week, bringing me back closer to my first 10 lbs loss!  I'll take it.<br /><br />Obviously you saw that this past week was definitely an "off" week for me.  I couldn't get the healthy living thing together.  Yesterday (Friday) I got myself started off on the right foot, however.  Since I missed my usual Wednesday WW meeting, I attended yesterday morning instead.  As it turns out, the lady leading Friday's meeting was the old leader I used to go to 2 years ago.  It's funny how people change in just 2 short years - she looked a lot different (in her clothing & hair style).  But, I was so pleased to discover that she had the Pumpkin Fluff recipe posted on the board at the front of the meeting room.  It was my lucky day!<br /><br />Why?  Well, I'm going to a party tonight to honor a friend of mine who will be getting married in just a few weeks.  My job was to make a dessert and so I thought I'd make the pumpkin fluff, but I knew I'd have to do some searching for the recipe because I couldn't remember where I put it.  I couldn't remember exactly what the pumpkin fluff was used for either.  All I could remember was the name, and that I wanted to do something fall-inspired.  And low and behold, there was the recipe at the front of the room :).  I will share this recipe with you this week - it is incredibly pumpkiny and so decadent.  I'll be using it as a fruit dip (it's so versatile, you can really use it any way you like) with cut up apples and pears and vanilla wafers.  I'll be sure to take pictures :).<br /><br />Since I love cooking, and felt like the fruit tray wouldn't be enough of a dessert, I also made an apple crisp, which I will also share the recipe for.  This crisp is meant to serve 12, but I'm going to try to cut it up a little smaller to make more serving sizes as well as a smaller Points+ value per serving.  I cannot wait to try this tonight with some fat free vanilla ice cream on top!<br /><br />Until the party begins, I'm going to continue cheering on my Nittany Lions who are playing Eastern Michigan today in Happy Valley.  WE ARE!

Loss Success Weight Loss Weigh In and Weekend Plans

I guess all that struggling didn't matter after all, because I dropped 1.8 lbs this week, bringing me back closer to my first 10 lbs loss!  I'll take it.Obviously you saw that this past week was definitely an "off" week for me.  I couldn't get the he…

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My First 10 Pound Goal Has Been Met!

I was so anxious for today's weigh in.  I've been consistently losing over the last 3 weeks and I wanted to keep the momentum going.  I would have been pleased with losing less than a pound, just so that it was a recorded "loss". <br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://slimfitworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/easy-way-to-lose-weight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://slimfitworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/easy-way-to-lose-weight.jpg" width="269" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.slimfitworld.com/set-your-weight-loss-goals/">Source</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table>There have been a few occasions where I've gotten close to meeting my first 10 lbs goal, but then ultimately failed. But still, it's always in the back of my mind when I hop on the scale Friday mornings to see the verdict.  I desperately want those new shoes!!    <br /><br />Today was no different.  I really wanted to see a 10 lbs loss (total, not since last week :) ), but like I said, I would have been happy with any loss.  Still, as I was getting ready to step on the scale, I told myself, "Just picture the 10 lbs loss Hilary, it could happen!"<br /><br />Holy moly friends!<br /><br />Sure enough - 253.8 was staring back at me!!!!!<br /><br />That means that I have removed the first 10 lbs of this loonnnnggggg weight loss journey.   It has taken me 6 months to lose 10 lbs everybody.  6 months!  It is what it is and I'll take it.  And I will never see those 10 lbs again.  But, what I want <i>you </i>to realize is if <i>you're</i> struggling and not seeing immediate results, <b>hang in there</b>.  If I could sum up in one word the theme of these past 6 months for me, it would be called <b style="color: blue;">Perseverance</b>.<br /><br /><h2 style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: small;">per·se·ver·ance <span class="main-fl" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"> <i>noun</i> </span><span class="pr" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">\<span class="unicode">ˌ</span>pər-sə-<span class="unicode">ˈ</span>vir-ən(t)s\</span><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><b>:</b> <br />continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition</span></span></h2><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Yes, I would say based on that definition, that pretty much sums up my journey thus far.  </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">So, my reward for meeting the first 10 lbs goal was a brand new pair of tennis shoes:</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><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://s.onlineshoes.com/images/br008/247285_366_45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://s.onlineshoes.com/images/br008/247285_366_45.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/womens-new-balance-ww860km-lace-up-for-the-cure-silver-pink-p_id207023">Source</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">I am a big supporter of breast cancer research.  These are the New Balance Lace Up for the Cure walking shoes.  </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><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/AVvXsEiAmbjd_0rITBkLB0or3M4WnvCpLvVIMTllFrakk8sjhxYUrSD1sROxBHWn9NXPMwcjsxWKrQs4mw4Vuc82DORMpPlCbMZExneFUMXJwKKoU1bMfSVA-jOvF2t8Eom7JKNy0qlq6C02k_I/s1600/shoes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmbjd_0rITBkLB0or3M4WnvCpLvVIMTllFrakk8sjhxYUrSD1sROxBHWn9NXPMwcjsxWKrQs4mw4Vuc82DORMpPlCbMZExneFUMXJwKKoU1bMfSVA-jOvF2t8Eom7JKNy0qlq6C02k_I/s400/shoes.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">they have the pink ribbon detail on the inside - love it!</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">I'm so excited to <i>finally </i>be getting these new shoes!!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Now that I've met my first major goal, it is time to update the <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/p/progress-pictures.html">Progress Pictures</a>!  AND, it is time to get this "party" started - I plan to celebrate this achievement allllll day long :).</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="ssens" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Best wishes for a fabulous, happy and blessed weekend everybody :).</span></span></div><h2 style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"> </h2>

10 Pound Goal Loss Success Weight Loss My First 10 Pound Goal Has Been Met!

I was so anxious for today's weigh in.  I've been consistently losing over the last 3 weeks and I wanted to keep the momentum going.  I would have been pleased with losing less than a pound, just so that it was a recorded "loss". Source.There have be…

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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 to the gym to do these workouts because of all the super buff gym guys.  Well, we did great - steadily making o…

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Official Weigh In & Week 2 Challenge Updates

This morning I weighed in at 255.8!  That means I officially met my <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/p/goals.html">first goal</a>!  I'm down a total of 8 lbs and today I picked up the <a href="http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/2EC398vHy15QEeuA2gp2AqlCpANwFMYL">Wii Just Dance 2 video game</a>.  I'm excited to include this into my weekly workout routine. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hkofferhouse.com/images/cover/other/Just%20Dance%202%20-%20U.S%20Ver%20%28Wii%29%20cover%20front%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.hkofferhouse.com/images/cover/other/Just%20Dance%202%20-%20U.S%20Ver%20%28Wii%29%20cover%20front%201.jpg" width="220" /></a></td></tr><br /> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hkofferhouse.com/items/wii/o0109-detail.htm">Source</a>.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr><br /> </tbody></table>I really hope that the weight is coming off <i>mainly </i>because of the consistent weight training I've been doing over the last 2 weeks now, and not due to <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/08/so-there-was-earthquake-today.html">this past week's events</a>.  <br /><br />Either way, a loss is a loss! :)<br /><br /><a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/08/starting-weekend-off-right.html">To continue on with the Beck challenge</a> from Priorfatgirl, here are some additional things I've been working on:<br /><br /><ol><li><b>Find a diet coach.</b>  This person will be our motivator and personal cheerleader during our weight loss journey.  They could be a therapist, spouse, family member, friend, anyone... just as long as you have someone to stay accountable to.  My diet coach is <a href="http://60lessat40.blogspot.com/">Leslie</a> - thank you again for volunteering to be my d.c.! :)</li><br /> <li><b>Arrange your environment.</b>  This includes ideas such as start eating your meals on smaller size plates to cleaning out your cabinets and pitching all junk food and trigger foods.  Be sure to make it known to people that you are on a healthiness journey so that hopefully they don't sabotage you in some way, and also try some creative problem solving - such as not allowing any candy in the house what so ever.  I've used the plate trick for years and I love it.  </li><br /> <li><b>Create time and energy.</b>  Make a schedule for yourself.  Schedule in time for yourself to get healthy, whether that means putting exercise on  your calendar or allotting time to meal plan or whatever it is you need to do to stay on track with your weight loss journey.  In other words, figure out your priorities and schedule those first, then put all the extraneous stuff in where it fits (<i>if </i>it fits!).  When I sat down to make my workweek schedule and weekend schedule, a feeling of relief came over me.  Finally, I can see in black/white what I should be doing and when.  I can see that I have plenty of time to get everything done that I want to achieve each day.  Having it written down really helped me organize my thoughts and relieved some stress to be honest.  Try it!</li><br /> <li><b>Select an exercise plan.</b>  MWF for me is the NROLW.  Tuesday is a gym visit.  Thursday is a Wii active game.  If I decide to go to the gym on Saturday as a bonus, I will.  Sunday's are always meant to be a day of rest :).</li><br /> <li><b>Set a realistic goal.</b>  Beck doesn't want us focusing on anything more than 5 lbs goals.  <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/p/goals.html">My goals page</a> has been updated to reflect my rewards for each goal.  I think this is a great idea, because originally I had been focusing on 10 lbs losses, and as you can see on the left, my weight loss hasn't exactly been moving along so drastically.  The 5 lbs goals seem much more attainable to me.</li><br /> <li><b>Differentiate between Hunger, Desire and Cravings.</b>  For one full day, keep track of how you feel before, during and after a meal.  On a scale of 0 - 10, where 0 is not hungry at all, and 10 is you're the hungriest you've ever been, rate yourself for one day.  I plan to try this out tomorrow.  This is by far the thing I struggle with the most - I often eat out of boredom!</li><br /> </ol>The <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/search/label/New%20Rules%20of%20Lifting%20for%20Women">NROLW</a> is going great guys!  I haven't missed a workout yet and Joel is still participating as well.  In just the 2 short weeks I've been doing this, I've already seen true growth in my strength - in some cases I've already moved from 5 lbs weights to 15 lbs weights.   I'm definitely proud.  Soon, we'll be able to move back into the gym to start doing these workouts.<br /><br />I hope you all have a great and relaxing weekend!  To those of you on the east coast, I hope you and your families are able to stay safe during <a href="http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/graphics_at4.shtml?5-daynl">Irene</a>!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nasa.gov/images/content/581574main_image_2043_946-710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.nasa.gov/images/content/581574main_image_2043_946-710.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><br /> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/imagegallery/image_feature_2043.html">Source</a>. I've heard Irene is the width of Maryland to St Louis, MO!</td></tr><br /> </tbody></table><br />

Loss New Rules of Lifting for Women Success The Beck Diet Solution Weight Loss Weight Watchers Official Weigh In & Week 2 Challenge Updates

This morning I weighed in at 255.8!  That means I officially met my first goal!  I'm down a total of 8 lbs and today I picked up the Wii Just Dance 2 video game.  I'm excited to include this into my weekly workout routine.  Source.   I really hope t…

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A 5 Pound Loss

<a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/08/lets-say-it-all-together-folks.html">Last week</a> I was frustrated and sad about gaining 2 lbs at the weekly WW meeting, especially after I knew I had a stellar week.<br /><br />This week, I lost 5 lbs! <br /><br />When my leader asked what I did differently this week, I told her:<br /><br /><blockquote> <i>"Well, you may have heard.... we had this earthquake on Tuesday and since then my mind has been so consumed with that that I haven't really been eating much." </i> </blockquote><br />Of course the meeting members laughed, but I really believe that <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/08/so-there-was-earthquake-today.html">Tuesday's events</a> certainly contributed to some, if not all, of that loss.  <br /><br />Tomorrow is my official weigh in and I'll be interested to see what the scale has in store for me this week.  <br /><br />To <a href="http://60lessat40.blogspot.com/">Leslie</a>, <a href="http://biggerthanababyelephant.blogspot.com/">Jodie</a>, <a href="http://www.1year100pounds.com/">Ryan</a> and <a href="http://mrshillruns.blogspot.com/">Jessica</a> - thank you all for your encouraging comments from yesterday.  I appreciate you taking the time to leave thoughtful words :).<br /><br />

Loss Success Weight Loss Weight Watchers A 5 Pound Loss

Last week I was frustrated and sad about gaining 2 lbs at the weekly WW meeting, especially after I knew I had a stellar week.This week, I lost 5 lbs! When my leader asked what I did differently this week, I told her: "Well, you may have heard.... we…

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HilJoe Competition - Week 1A + Prayer Request

As I was getting ready to post our weigh in this week, I received a text message from my mom informing me that my cousin's father passed away unexpectedly.  This is a cousin who was married in to our family, so I'm not related to her father.  Still, it is heartbreaking none the less.  Death has been such a lasting theme in my life over the last year that I am to the point where I fear answering my phone when my mom calls at odd times.  Just in 2010, I lost my uncle tragically, and my grandparents died within 1 month of each other in November and December.  *Sigh*<br /><br />I ask that you please pray for the Misurda family over the next several days - they will certainly need all they can get.<br /><br />That news took the wind out of my sails, so I'll just share the weigh in below.  We both lost this week, and I won.<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" 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><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Joel (6'): 239.6</b><br /><b> Hilary (5'8"): 257.6</b></div><br />I lost 3.6 pounds from last week, Joel lost 0.7.<br /><br />Enjoy your weekend!

HJ Competition Miscellaneous Success HilJoe Competition - Week 1A + Prayer Request

As I was getting ready to post our weigh in this week, I received a text message from my mom informing me that my cousin's father passed away unexpectedly.  This is a cousin who was married in to our family, so I'm not related to her father.  Still, …

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The Benefits of Meal Planning

I've been so proud of myself this week! <br /><br />Actually, for the last two weeks I completely stuck to my menu plans.  "Menu plan" to me means that every weekend I pick out 3 dinner dishes and 1 breakfast dish to make for the upcoming week.  The breakfasts are the only meal I make ahead.  The rest gets made the same day.  For the past two weeks, I have selected meals that I have stuck to and actually made.  The norm had been that I'd make 2 out of the 3 dinners or 1of the 3.   Sometimes I wouldn't make any. <br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://mesotheliomaz.info/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/todaysmenu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://mesotheliomaz.info/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/todaysmenu.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I found this happening more times that I care to admit while living at Joel's 'ex-house' (not his ex's house, his EX-house!).  I also found this happening a lot just last year whenever my commute was an hour and 40 minutes at night - we ate out A LOT during that time.  I know that the eating out was the reason for this huge weight gain.  I had been easily maintaining at 220 pounds until I moved to that apartment and endured that lengthy commute.  And during that year plus the 8 months living at Joel's ex-house, I put on an additional 40+ pounds.  </div><div><br /></div><div>The meals I've been making over the past two weeks have been so delicious too!  Some I've shared on here already, and I have upcoming posts to share even more of them.  This week's breakfast was <a href="http://www.hungry-girl.com/newsletters/raw/566">Hungry Girl's Apple Pie Pockets</a> for a whopping 3 Points+ (calculated using the recipe builder and my own ingredients)!  Do you realize that this Apple Pie Pocket is very similar in taste to that of the McDonald's apple pie (7 Points+), but with far better stats?  It's been so delicious this week, and a great way for me to get in some fruits.  </div><div><br /></div><div>I also made fish covered in dill and a lemon butter sauce (sounds scary but was, again, only 3 Points+!).  I <3 fish!  </div><div><br /></div><div>Last night we had this sausage rigatoni soup dish with spinach and cannellini beans - again - amazing!</div><div><br /></div><div>When enough time passes where I've stayed on plan really well and I haven't been eating out, or indulging in fast food, I start to crave french fries and Chick Fil A and all those things that are only good in moderation.  However, over that entire year and 8 months of mainly eating out, etc... there comes a point where you're just sick of it.  <i>No<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></i>fast food sounds appealing,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><i>no<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></i>chain restaurant sounds appetizing.   </div><div></div><div>The foods I've made over the last two weeks are not high in calories and have proven very filling and delicious - but I've found that preparing those foods takes work and organization and time, and that's not always something I care to do or want to do.  </div><div></div><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.christophercleary.com/images/boredom_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://www.christophercleary.com/images/boredom_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sometimes I'm bored and/or lazy and don't want to go to all the effort.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div></div><div>Yet if I want to maintain a healthier lifestyle, and believe me - <u>I do</u>, then cooking and meal planning needs to remain a priority in my life!    </div>

Hungry Girl Inspiration Random Weight Loss Thoughts Success Weight Watcher Recipes Weight Watchers The Benefits of Meal Planning

I've been so proud of myself this week! Actually, for the last two weeks I completely stuck to my menu plans.  "Menu plan" to me means that every weekend I pick out 3 dinner dishes and 1 breakfast dish to make for the upcoming week.  The breakfasts a…

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July Goals

<span style="color: black;">It's time to check in on how I did with meeting (or not meeting!) my goals for June, and outline my goals for July.</span><b style="color: #660000;"> </b><br /><br /><b style="color: #660000;">My goals for June</b>:<br /><br />1. <b>Pass Anatomy/Physiology:</b>  <i>Pending</i>. Both professors said the grades should be posted this weekend, so I'm still waiting on that yet.  I will definitely share the outcome as soon as I know!<br /><br />2. <b>Plan Meals:</b> <i>Fail</i>. One nice thing about writing your goals down is that you can go back and reassess them after the time has passed for which you wanted to meet them.  I love how naive I was to think that the month of June would be so laid back that I could actually plan my meals each day!  I was not home a single weekend during this month, which is when I do my menu planning!  Not to mention a move and school - this just didn't happen.<br /><br />3. <b>Find a New Gym:</b> <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/06/weigh-in-new-gym.html"><i>Check!</i> We are the proud members of Gold's Gym!</a><br /><br />4. <b>Meet My First Weight Loss Goal:</b> <i>Fail</i>. I'll save the excuses I've already used up above, but this goal WILL be met for July because there will be no reason NOT to meet this goal!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #990000;"><u>My goals for July</u>:</span></b><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.e-acai.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Weight-Loss-Goals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.e-acai.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Weight-Loss-Goals.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.e-acai.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Weight-Loss-Goals.jpg">Courtesy</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />1. <b>Go to the gym 5 days a week.</b>  This will consist of 40 minutes of cardio and 1 day per week of weight lifting.<br /><br />2. <b>Meet my first 10lb goal. </b>I can do this.  I'm 7 pounds away.  I. will. do. this.<br /><br />3. <b>Plan my meals.  </b>By doing this, it will help me stay within my daily Points+ range.  Also, it will help me start going through my cookbooks, as is <a href="http://prittygoodbooks.blogspot.com/2011/04/hungry-girl-cooking-eggamuffin-101.html">another goal of mine</a>. <br /><br />4. <b>Take my lunch to work every day.</b><br /><br />5. <b>Divvy up my Points+ balance for each meal and stick to it.</b>  I have a tendency to just eat whatever I want when I want, regardless of the Points+ value.  Sometimes this works to my benefit, most times it does not.  I plan to use a variation of <a href="http://gettingnshape.blogspot.com/">Christina's</a> method and see how that works for me:<br /><br /><blockquote><blockquote>I get a total of <b>41 Points+</b> per day.  They will be divided out as follows:<br /><ul><li><i>Breakfast</i>: 10 Points+</li><li><i>A.M. Snack</i>: 5 Points+</li><li><i>Lunch</i>: 10 Points+</li><li><i>P.M</i>. Snack: 5 Points+</li><li><i>Dinner</i>: 11 Points+</li></ul></blockquote></blockquote>Wish me success!!

goals Success July Goals

It's time to check in on how I did with meeting (or not meeting!) my goals for June, and outline my goals for July. My goals for June:1. Pass Anatomy/Physiology:  Pending. Both professors said the grades should be posted this weekend, so I'm still wa…

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