*knocks on screen* Remember me? Yep, I may just be one of the worst bloggers, ever. I can't believe it's been 6 months since I last posted! How is that even possible? I even have a Blogger app on my phone to make it easier--so much for relying on the app.
I have to admit, when I looked at the date of my last post, I giggled. Like literally. Why? Because it's just about the SAME time when I was asked to step up from being PSO Treasurer (think PTA) to PRESIDENT! Yep, that's me. From what I've heard from other mothers, being PTA/PTO/PSO President is a lot of hard work and it takes a lot of time. But what I've learned is that being the president the first year of the organization's history in a charter school that just started it's second year is beyond time consuming! Now, don't think I'm complaining, I'm not. I'm soooo not. I am beyond grateful for this opportunity and actually enjoy every hour I spend at the school and at home on the phone/computer. I'm just stating a fact. It takes a lot of time, time away from other focuses.
So, maybe I'm not the worst Blogger. I've been legit busy, but I could have possibly snuck a post in here and there the last few months, right? Maybe? Was I that busy? Based on friend's reactions, I guess I was.
Now, down to business--weight loss business. I was doing pretty good this year, despite the relocation to a new school, town, house, etc. The scale said I was, although I felt that I was eating whatever I pretty much wanted. I really was doing well as I look back. For two months over the summer, I didn't eat any man made carbs, and it felt fabulous! But the weirdest thing happened, and I'm still analysing it to understand the, why?
Around early autumn I learned something that took me by surprise. I needed to get new pants, the size I was wearing was 18. So when I went to the store, I tried on 18s and they were HUGE. So I tried on 16s, still huge. I finally realized I'm actually a size 14. I looked at myself in the mirror. Like really. Looked. At. Myself. And I discovered I saw myself much heavier than I actually was. It was a real eye opener.
Then, do you know what happened?
After being excited over this new reality, the holidays kicked in. And you know what I did? I ate. Like, really ate. Like, pretty much anything that was in front of me, I ate--no restraint whatsoever. In the back of my subconscious mind--at the place where you think you are in control, but really, you aren't--I found myself saying, "You've done well. You've pretty much eaten what you like all year and you've maintained. Eat this. Eat that. You'll be okay."
So I did.
What kind of crazy talk is that?! It's like the whole devil on one shoulder with the angel on the other. In my case, I swear my devil took out my angel with a huge cream puff grenade, because she was nowhere to be found. She's been mute. During the season starting with Halloween, I just ate whatever was there because "I was size 14." I swear I'm insane. When I feel heavy, I tend to eat less. But as soon as I feel like I'm in control, I soon find myself going out of control.
So, here I am at the end of 2012 and I'm not sure what goals to make. Or if I should even make any since it's such a great opportunity for sabotage. Maybe I should go in half effort to fool myself into doing better. I don't know. After 30+ years of playing this game, I'm tired and I think that weight control, for some, is literally something that can put you in the loony bin. I know what it takes. I know it's not complicated. I know I have the ability to do it. So how is it that I'm ending this year "fluffy" as ever?
All I can say is this, and I make no promises, but I have one year until I'm 40. One. And I'll be darned if I begin the next decade of my life unhappy with the way I look, but mostly with the way I feel. I want to shop and have a closet filled with cute clothes, not with old familiars that are faded and getting holey because "I don't want to buy big clothes when I'm just about to get smaller." I want to feel cute. I've had 4 kids, and I've forgiven myself for not looking my best, I've allowed myself to be in "progress." I have no excuse now. My baby is about to start school and I have run out of excuses. It's all me. Now, I just need to get my focus in check, and make 2013 the year I stop the insanity. I'm seriously tired of being a yo-yo. I'm seriously tired of this game. You probably think I've gone insane. Maybe I have? I want to focus on something else.
Showing posts with label Eating Strategy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Eating Strategy. Show all posts
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Day 350 - A Journey With No Ending (A Personal Discovery)
FINALLY, my 3 week virus has finally died a permanent death! I have learned a lot during this time that I wanted to share.
1. My body and appetite are directly effected by my exercise program. While I was sick, I lightened my workout and ate often. During this time of year, eating often isn't a good thing. I haven't binged, but if you take a bite of all the yummy things you are given or make, it tends to add up. With these two things happening, I noticed the scale starting to creep! I am grateful that my mentality now is that if the scale starts to creep, I get back into my good habits and it creeps back down. Before, I would just say, "Whatever", continue eating and doing what I was doing that brought on the extra weight and just not look at the scale for a time since I knew it was going up. Needless to say, if I don't workout, I will not be able to maintain and I will most certainly gain weight. Maintenance is NOT an option if I am not working out.
2. Even though I have worked out every day in 2009, lost 40 pounds and gained a body I can be happy about, I have found naughty eating patterns slipping back! When I realized this I was thinking, "What the heck? Have I learned nothing??" It became apparent to me that this journey doesn't have an ending, it's a journey for life. I can be thin and doing the things that bring health, but inside me, there is always that part that if left unchecked, will cause weight gain and will enjoy unhealthy behaviors. Which leads me to #3.
3. I ALWAYS NEED TO BE ON MY GUARD!! If not, bad behaviors will creep back when illness or stress are experienced. This realization is what brought me to the computer tonight. When I first started this journey and decided to make better food choices so I could loose weight, I was in the mindset to make good choices, to do the things needed to loose weight. To find the tricks and substitutes needed to bypass those things that would prevent me from being unsuccessful. As months went by, and these new behaviors became routine, I didn't have to think so much about it. They were positive habits, things that were coming naturally and that would give me the results I liked. I entered the holiday season with a plan, but the mindset wasn't there. I got cocky and didn't really think so much about the decisions that needed to be made to continue weight loss. I find myself today, with a plateful of Christmas cookies. I didn't down a bunch like I normally would have, but I did use a knife and take a taste of each of them. Those little bites add up! I didn't use the technique I used to use when I would stop, take a moment and think about what it would taste like and realize that I didn't really want it after all. That is a necessary thing to do this time of year because there is just TOO much good stuff. You CAN'T take little bites because when you have 12 things you take a bite of, it's like eating a few! Any other time of year, a bite or two of something would be fine, but this is the season where there is just too much.
So I end this post with a reminder to myself, never let your guard down, never search for that light at the end of the tunnel, and NEVER, NEVER, EVER take your foot off the elliptical for more than 24 hours.
1. My body and appetite are directly effected by my exercise program. While I was sick, I lightened my workout and ate often. During this time of year, eating often isn't a good thing. I haven't binged, but if you take a bite of all the yummy things you are given or make, it tends to add up. With these two things happening, I noticed the scale starting to creep! I am grateful that my mentality now is that if the scale starts to creep, I get back into my good habits and it creeps back down. Before, I would just say, "Whatever", continue eating and doing what I was doing that brought on the extra weight and just not look at the scale for a time since I knew it was going up. Needless to say, if I don't workout, I will not be able to maintain and I will most certainly gain weight. Maintenance is NOT an option if I am not working out.
2. Even though I have worked out every day in 2009, lost 40 pounds and gained a body I can be happy about, I have found naughty eating patterns slipping back! When I realized this I was thinking, "What the heck? Have I learned nothing??" It became apparent to me that this journey doesn't have an ending, it's a journey for life. I can be thin and doing the things that bring health, but inside me, there is always that part that if left unchecked, will cause weight gain and will enjoy unhealthy behaviors. Which leads me to #3.
3. I ALWAYS NEED TO BE ON MY GUARD!! If not, bad behaviors will creep back when illness or stress are experienced. This realization is what brought me to the computer tonight. When I first started this journey and decided to make better food choices so I could loose weight, I was in the mindset to make good choices, to do the things needed to loose weight. To find the tricks and substitutes needed to bypass those things that would prevent me from being unsuccessful. As months went by, and these new behaviors became routine, I didn't have to think so much about it. They were positive habits, things that were coming naturally and that would give me the results I liked. I entered the holiday season with a plan, but the mindset wasn't there. I got cocky and didn't really think so much about the decisions that needed to be made to continue weight loss. I find myself today, with a plateful of Christmas cookies. I didn't down a bunch like I normally would have, but I did use a knife and take a taste of each of them. Those little bites add up! I didn't use the technique I used to use when I would stop, take a moment and think about what it would taste like and realize that I didn't really want it after all. That is a necessary thing to do this time of year because there is just TOO much good stuff. You CAN'T take little bites because when you have 12 things you take a bite of, it's like eating a few! Any other time of year, a bite or two of something would be fine, but this is the season where there is just too much.
So I end this post with a reminder to myself, never let your guard down, never search for that light at the end of the tunnel, and NEVER, NEVER, EVER take your foot off the elliptical for more than 24 hours.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Day 328 - Thanksgiving is on it's way...
I LOVE this time of year! Thanksgiving is my most favorite holiday of year for so many reasons! Of course, the food is a huge factor, but not like it used to be. I mostly love the holiday because of family.In my family, it really hasn't changed since long before my oldest memory of childhood. The location did change when my grandparents got to the point where they were no longer able to host. The opportunity then fell upon my parents where I was able to have a more helping hand in a few of the preparations.
My mom and I get together and set the table and have time to just converse about the big day. I always enjoy that time together. She's also makes detailed notes each year so that if she or my dad weren't able to do what they do, we'd be able to step in and help out. Life is what it is and some day I know that it will be my husband and my turn to take on the duties, to carry on the tradition for this side of my family. I pray it's not for several more decades. I love watching my dad and smelling the roasted turkey as we walk into the house. The smell of the stuffing, the yams, and all the other familiar aromas when settling into the livingroom and kitchen area. I enjoy seeing the kids' excitement over the day. It's wonderful to just spend the day being around each other, relaxing, when time doesn't seem to exist.
It's the menu that has for the most part, remained the same. Each year we all know the menu, know what to expect. There have been few variations to the main meal, and we all love that!! This year my mom wasn't able to get the usual rolls that we have had with the meal for eons. I pray there won't be a riot! No, as much as things have remained the same, so many things have changed. What once was my grandparents with their children and their families has now grown into a whole new generation. I love the constant that it is in my life. I have only missed one of these dinners in my 35 years of physical existance.
With so many Thanksgiving dinners behind me, this is the first one where I am not worried. I am not worried of over eating, I am not worried about being deprived. (Like that has ever happened in the history of me) I am not worried about feeling out of control. This is the first Thanksgiving that I can go, and honestly enjoy the whole day without a bit of anxiety over what passes my lips. I am excited and I have a plan!
I am going to have a good, solid workout in the morning. I am going to have a late breakfast that has a balance of carbs and protein around 10ish so that I don't go into Thanksgiving dinner at 2 ravished. I am going to fill my plate with small servings of foods I adore! When dessert comes around, I am going to have partial servings of the things I like so when I sit down I'll have 4 different types of dessert making up 1 maybe 2 actual servings. The plan is to not go back for seconds. What happens if I do? It could happen. But maybe I'll just keep a balance of my carbs and protein so that my appetite doesn't control me. At the end of the day, I will only have had 2 main meals and dessert that could count for a 3rd meal. If I keeps portions down, I'll get my fill without over doing it. My desire to binge hasn't been there now that I have allowed myself whatever I would like. The fact there are no "no-no" foods, they don't hold control over me. I have a bite or two, and I'm good. If I feel I have eaten more than I should, I can also just do a mini workout (5-10 min.) when I get home. Something to get my heart pumping and my metabolism started, just to help things along. Ever walked after being stuffed? You feel so much better than if you just sit and do nothing. It finally feels so wonderful not to be a slave to the holiday I adore.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Day 316 - One More Tip to Add to Yesterday's Post
DO NOT KEEP ANYTHING IN THE HOUSE THAT IS A TEMPTATION TO YOU!
temp·ta·tion (t
mp-t
sh
n):
1. Something that seduces or has the quality to seduce.
2. The desire to have or do something that you know you should avoid.
Why have something so powerful in your house pulling against your desire to do better? For me personally, I have proven to myself this year that I can do pretty good in the beginning. But keep that temptation in the house for a few days, my resistance to do good weakens and I often find myself thinking, "Let's just finish this off so it's gone and I can stop picking at it." Not good. Not good at all. But if I keep it out and away, I am okay! I LOVE to bake, so if I can make something, enjoy it the first day and then share with others immediately, all is well. I am not one who likes to torture themselves with keeping temptation within reach, it makes it hard to stick to my convictions.
temp·ta·tion (t
mp-tshn):1. Something that seduces or has the quality to seduce.
2. The desire to have or do something that you know you should avoid.
Why have something so powerful in your house pulling against your desire to do better? For me personally, I have proven to myself this year that I can do pretty good in the beginning. But keep that temptation in the house for a few days, my resistance to do good weakens and I often find myself thinking, "Let's just finish this off so it's gone and I can stop picking at it." Not good. Not good at all. But if I keep it out and away, I am okay! I LOVE to bake, so if I can make something, enjoy it the first day and then share with others immediately, all is well. I am not one who likes to torture themselves with keeping temptation within reach, it makes it hard to stick to my convictions.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Day 315 - A Few Tips on How to Avoid Overeating
I like to eat. In the past I have often overate and at times binged. It would be easy for me to make my past actions present. Every day I need to make a conscience decision to keep those habits in the past. How have I been able to do it? The following are a few things that are working for me:
1. I have to make the conscience (not passive) decision to want to take care of my body. I need to make a firm decision that I am going to make good decisions. I have to literally tell myself that I want to do better in my eating, to eat in a manner that I need to so I can stay healthy. If I don't, I am passively giving myself permission to have one more day of bad food choices, overeating and feeling like a failure. Back in those days of struggle, I would scream it to myself and often times, I would ignore it. As each day passes, my internal voice doesn't have to be as loud either. Now, I can just think it, "Good choices."
2. I need to give myself a split second to think about what I am going to eat when it's something that tempts me. I used to hear it all the time in my WW meetings. "Visualize what you want to achieve. Visualize what you are eating. Visualize. Visualize. Visualize." Used to make me crazy!! I thought, if I am going to think about that brownie so much, of course I am going to eat it!! But this year, I finally got it. It clicked. I made visualization work! I first noticed back in March. I had just started to make some progress loosing a few pounds. We were at a social event and they were serving one of my most favorite desserts, and it was HOMEMADE. It is easier for me to avoid fake, processed treats, but when it's homemade? That is my weakness. They were serving brownies with vanilla ice cream and hot fudge. At first I panicked. How was I going to make it through this? I had been so good but I felt like I was on the edge, that on any moment, with the right temptation, I was going to loose it and return to that dark place I was at the beginning of the year. Suddenly my mind worked for me. For a split second I visualized how I would feel after I ate the whole thing. That milky coating on my tongue. That sweet overload of the senses when the spoon flops into the empty bowl. The guilt of knowing I just lost control...again. After passing through those feelings, that brownie sundae no longer held me in it's control. I felt empowered. I didn't want to feel like I knew I was going to feel. I also knew if I deprived myself, my sense of control could snap and I could just loose it. So I asked my son for a bite of his. That was one delicious bite...and that was all I needed. For the rest of the evening, I was satisfied, complete. That brownie sundae no longer mattered. Now when faced with a temptation, I take that split second to really visualize, and I can find the control needed to make the choice that brings health and keeps me in my new jeans. :o)
3. Working out during my trouble time really helps to control the munchies. My most challenging time of day with eating is after dinner. I used to pack in nearly a days worth of calories after dinner during the time I was trying to "relax" from my day. When I hop on my elliptical soon after dinner, that workout completely curbs any cravings. I have also learned that if I can wrap myself up into something with my hands during my trouble time, I am completely distracted. A good book, a crochet or any craft project for that matter, will keep my hands busy and my mouth empty too.
1. I have to make the conscience (not passive) decision to want to take care of my body. I need to make a firm decision that I am going to make good decisions. I have to literally tell myself that I want to do better in my eating, to eat in a manner that I need to so I can stay healthy. If I don't, I am passively giving myself permission to have one more day of bad food choices, overeating and feeling like a failure. Back in those days of struggle, I would scream it to myself and often times, I would ignore it. As each day passes, my internal voice doesn't have to be as loud either. Now, I can just think it, "Good choices."
2. I need to give myself a split second to think about what I am going to eat when it's something that tempts me. I used to hear it all the time in my WW meetings. "Visualize what you want to achieve. Visualize what you are eating. Visualize. Visualize. Visualize." Used to make me crazy!! I thought, if I am going to think about that brownie so much, of course I am going to eat it!! But this year, I finally got it. It clicked. I made visualization work! I first noticed back in March. I had just started to make some progress loosing a few pounds. We were at a social event and they were serving one of my most favorite desserts, and it was HOMEMADE. It is easier for me to avoid fake, processed treats, but when it's homemade? That is my weakness. They were serving brownies with vanilla ice cream and hot fudge. At first I panicked. How was I going to make it through this? I had been so good but I felt like I was on the edge, that on any moment, with the right temptation, I was going to loose it and return to that dark place I was at the beginning of the year. Suddenly my mind worked for me. For a split second I visualized how I would feel after I ate the whole thing. That milky coating on my tongue. That sweet overload of the senses when the spoon flops into the empty bowl. The guilt of knowing I just lost control...again. After passing through those feelings, that brownie sundae no longer held me in it's control. I felt empowered. I didn't want to feel like I knew I was going to feel. I also knew if I deprived myself, my sense of control could snap and I could just loose it. So I asked my son for a bite of his. That was one delicious bite...and that was all I needed. For the rest of the evening, I was satisfied, complete. That brownie sundae no longer mattered. Now when faced with a temptation, I take that split second to really visualize, and I can find the control needed to make the choice that brings health and keeps me in my new jeans. :o)
3. Working out during my trouble time really helps to control the munchies. My most challenging time of day with eating is after dinner. I used to pack in nearly a days worth of calories after dinner during the time I was trying to "relax" from my day. When I hop on my elliptical soon after dinner, that workout completely curbs any cravings. I have also learned that if I can wrap myself up into something with my hands during my trouble time, I am completely distracted. A good book, a crochet or any craft project for that matter, will keep my hands busy and my mouth empty too.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Day 313 - 2 Pounds Closer!
I really didn't expect this, but when I hopped on the scale, it was down 2 more pounds! I just had to share! This time of the year is so hard to focus on losing weight. The weather is cooler, so baking is much more inviting. The holiday season is picking up so there are more reasons for treats and fun foods you aren't typically around.
I admit that I have been eating more than I would like to. I am not binging, but I haven't been passing on the sweets. The only thing different from last year to this year is that I am still exericsing every day. Can maintenence at a healthy weight really be as easy as exercising daily? If so, then you'll find me doing it everyday because I like to eat and I am really liking my new shape. I can go to any store I like and actually find something I want to wear. This is a new concept, it's convenient and it's healthy on the mind too.
So looking back on this post Halloween week to see why I lost 2 pounds, I have learned that if you can keep your body moving, it will work with you. When you are ignoring your body's need to move and exercise, it totally works against you. It really is all about exercise and eating moderatly. Although I enjoyed Halloween, the rest of the week I had my simple breakfast of bran and simple lunch. I didn't snack because I was just too busy to do so. Dinner was typical, but with the weather changing, I even had a little bigger servings. Although I exercised daily, I did something different, and maybe this was the reason. This week was so busy that I found myself using the excuse, "I am tired and I don't really want to workout. Instead of doing 30 minutes, I'll do 15 and crank up the resisitence." Maybe 15 minutes at level 15 is as effective as 30 minutes at level 10? The ellipitical works those large leg muscles which do burn the most calories. Maybe that is an effective substitute?
I think one of the most interesting things about this journey are the things I have learned along the way. I hope you have been able to learn a little from my experience as well. Have a wonderful day!
I admit that I have been eating more than I would like to. I am not binging, but I haven't been passing on the sweets. The only thing different from last year to this year is that I am still exericsing every day. Can maintenence at a healthy weight really be as easy as exercising daily? If so, then you'll find me doing it everyday because I like to eat and I am really liking my new shape. I can go to any store I like and actually find something I want to wear. This is a new concept, it's convenient and it's healthy on the mind too.
So looking back on this post Halloween week to see why I lost 2 pounds, I have learned that if you can keep your body moving, it will work with you. When you are ignoring your body's need to move and exercise, it totally works against you. It really is all about exercise and eating moderatly. Although I enjoyed Halloween, the rest of the week I had my simple breakfast of bran and simple lunch. I didn't snack because I was just too busy to do so. Dinner was typical, but with the weather changing, I even had a little bigger servings. Although I exercised daily, I did something different, and maybe this was the reason. This week was so busy that I found myself using the excuse, "I am tired and I don't really want to workout. Instead of doing 30 minutes, I'll do 15 and crank up the resisitence." Maybe 15 minutes at level 15 is as effective as 30 minutes at level 10? The ellipitical works those large leg muscles which do burn the most calories. Maybe that is an effective substitute?
I think one of the most interesting things about this journey are the things I have learned along the way. I hope you have been able to learn a little from my experience as well. Have a wonderful day!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Day 295 - Funny, Silly, Female Brain
Seriously, why are our brains constantly messing with us? Why do our eyes fail us? This week I have been feeling a little like I used to. I swear I feel like I have gained a few pounds. I look in the mirror, the reflection is the same. I hop on the scale, it also hasn't changed. I put on my clothes, nothing new. So what is the deal??
When I used to feel like this I would just eat whatever I felt like, in large quantities. It was almost like I was punishing myself for being overweight. The thought was, "Well, I'm overweight, I feel like poo, may as eat things that taste divine. I would ignore my better judgement and just eat. Sometimes I would crave and unless I ate what I was craving, I would just keep eating. I remember eating salty popcorn and then crave something sweet, brownies. Then after that, I would want something salty, chips. Then later, ice cream... It was sad and I never did that when anyone was around because I would have been incredibly embarrassed.
When I did Weight Watchers a few years ago, I was successful in loosing weight there, but I always felt on the edge. Like at any time I could slip and just go overboard. (Which I did after having my 3rd baby) Looking back and thinking about my WW experience, I was loosing weight, but I didn't change the habits. There were nights where I would start with salty popcorn in a measured amount, then I would move onto a serving of fat free brownie cookies, then I would go back to the popcorn (let's face it, low fat chips taste like paper) and then I would move on to "Skinny Cow" ice creams." On a rough day I would save a lot of my points just so I could gorge at night on junk. I stayed within my point range, I lost weight, but I did it by beating the system. But did I? When you try to beat the weight loss journey, it always comes back to bite you in the bum. In my case, by adding everything I ate to my bum! :o)
So I am learning that there are times are brain just freaks out for no reason! We just feel heavy. We are females, with cycles and as soon as you accept that our bodies are not our own, the battle is easier because you stop fighting it and start to learn to listen to it. By listening to our bodies, we can begin to work with it. What I am hearing is that I need to refocus on what I am eating and to start thinking about my portions. This is the time of year where there are lots of wonderful foods, warm foods, gooey foods. I am a picker, and if I am not careful I could pick myself into a few extra pounds. My game plan? Don't take my eating for granted. I need to focus and think before I eat. Make my plate and don't go back for seconds. If I am snacky, find something healthy that will curb the appetite. DRINK MY WATER!!!
SIDE NOTE: A new snack that I am loving! You can't eat a ton, and if you eat more than you would like, not a biggie, because it's a tomato after all. Dehydrated tomatoes from my garden nearly taste like candy. They have a strong, sweet, savory flavor so after a few you are done with snacking. Such an unexpected delight!
When I used to feel like this I would just eat whatever I felt like, in large quantities. It was almost like I was punishing myself for being overweight. The thought was, "Well, I'm overweight, I feel like poo, may as eat things that taste divine. I would ignore my better judgement and just eat. Sometimes I would crave and unless I ate what I was craving, I would just keep eating. I remember eating salty popcorn and then crave something sweet, brownies. Then after that, I would want something salty, chips. Then later, ice cream... It was sad and I never did that when anyone was around because I would have been incredibly embarrassed.
When I did Weight Watchers a few years ago, I was successful in loosing weight there, but I always felt on the edge. Like at any time I could slip and just go overboard. (Which I did after having my 3rd baby) Looking back and thinking about my WW experience, I was loosing weight, but I didn't change the habits. There were nights where I would start with salty popcorn in a measured amount, then I would move onto a serving of fat free brownie cookies, then I would go back to the popcorn (let's face it, low fat chips taste like paper) and then I would move on to "Skinny Cow" ice creams." On a rough day I would save a lot of my points just so I could gorge at night on junk. I stayed within my point range, I lost weight, but I did it by beating the system. But did I? When you try to beat the weight loss journey, it always comes back to bite you in the bum. In my case, by adding everything I ate to my bum! :o)
So I am learning that there are times are brain just freaks out for no reason! We just feel heavy. We are females, with cycles and as soon as you accept that our bodies are not our own, the battle is easier because you stop fighting it and start to learn to listen to it. By listening to our bodies, we can begin to work with it. What I am hearing is that I need to refocus on what I am eating and to start thinking about my portions. This is the time of year where there are lots of wonderful foods, warm foods, gooey foods. I am a picker, and if I am not careful I could pick myself into a few extra pounds. My game plan? Don't take my eating for granted. I need to focus and think before I eat. Make my plate and don't go back for seconds. If I am snacky, find something healthy that will curb the appetite. DRINK MY WATER!!!
SIDE NOTE: A new snack that I am loving! You can't eat a ton, and if you eat more than you would like, not a biggie, because it's a tomato after all. Dehydrated tomatoes from my garden nearly taste like candy. They have a strong, sweet, savory flavor so after a few you are done with snacking. Such an unexpected delight!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Day 292 - Favorite Fast Food Fix
When in a pinch, we like In-N-Out Burger. I have to admit, it's the one fast food place that doesn't make me gag. It seems so clean of an establishment, the food is basic, not severely adulterated and I can even watch while waiting in my car to see if anything fell on the floor. Maybe their facade has me fooled, but maybe the place is as clean as it seems.
With such a basic menu, it's easy not to get distracted with other things on the menu. You need a strategy to make it through the dangers of all fast food experiences. This is my strategy:
I order the same thing every time I go and I feel full, treated and I won't find it on the scale. I order a hamburger so I can save calories on the cheese. (I don't think it's real cheese either) I order it "ANIMAL STYLE" so I can get tasty grilled onions and a bit of special sauce. It's such a juicy burger, I don't miss the cheese. I also order some fries and ask for them "WELL" so that they will still be crispy by the time I get to our eating location (usually home). I share this order with my kids because all I really want is a few fries, like 10. As the kids have gotten bigger and eat more, I now order 2 orders. I have a nice glass of water when I am finished and I am full.
You might ask, "If you are going through the drive through just to take it home, why don't you just go home and eat something there?" Yes, that is the best solution!! There are just times where it's 1- 1:30 and we haven't had lunch. By the time I get home (we live out in the country), make lunch and eat it, it's after 2 and we are famished. As most know, when you get overly hungry, you will eat more. This is my solution to prevent overeating on late days and late lunches on the run.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Day 286 - A Warm, Healthy Drink on a Cold Day
I am a muncher. A grazer. A snacker. Whatever you want to call it, it all means the same. I am home most of the time, and it's so easy to just snack unconsciously throughout the day. Heck, I gained 10-15 pounds when we first started homeschooling because it's easy to do between subjects!! I also eat when I am stressed. So if there are things going on in life, it's easy to just snack my way through the issues. This comes natural to me.
During this journey I have found that although grazing is so easy to do, I had to stop it. It is too easy to get extra calories in without even being aware of it. I have found that if I can fill myself up with fluid, I not only can curb the munchies, but i can also get extra water in. When I speak of fluid, I am referring to water. I always forget to drink my water, I swear I am mostly in a dehydrated state. This isn't a good thing when trying to loose weight and I need to do better. You need water to flush your system! Not soda, not coffee, not anything with chemicals, just pure, clean, water. When I consume fluid, I mostly do this, drink water. In a year, the number of sodas I consume, I probably can count on my left hand. The stuff offers nothing good for your body, nothing. I have read that for every soda you consume you should also drink a glass of water because it takes water from your system to flush the toxins out of your system. It's bad stuff and the farther away you can get from the stuff, the better off your health will be.
A little trick that satisfies both needs is that I try to drink mugs full of warm fluid through out the day. My two most favorite beverages is Pero with a little milk and herbal tea with a splash of milk. Sometimes at the end of the day, around 9ish, especially if I had a light dinner, a little hunger twinge might hit my tummy. A big mugful of one of these hits the spot and kills that feeling.
This is considered a coffee substitute and it tastes like it too. I don't drink coffee, but this is just as good. It's really tasty with some sugar, but I try to keep the calories down so I just add a few tablespoons of milk. Read the ingredients. If you are trying to kick a coffee habit, this will help in the process. When I am feeling like a special treat, it's super tasty with a coffee flavoring like Coffee-mate.
This is my favorite herbal right now because there is choice. Every flavor is so tasty and they have a natural sweetness so it's easy to pass up the sugar bowl. A shot of milk adds a creamy to it that is really satisfying. I am a little excited from this image because the Fruit Tea Sampler I have has an orange flavor instead of blueberry. I am excited to try some blueberry!
During this journey I have found that although grazing is so easy to do, I had to stop it. It is too easy to get extra calories in without even being aware of it. I have found that if I can fill myself up with fluid, I not only can curb the munchies, but i can also get extra water in. When I speak of fluid, I am referring to water. I always forget to drink my water, I swear I am mostly in a dehydrated state. This isn't a good thing when trying to loose weight and I need to do better. You need water to flush your system! Not soda, not coffee, not anything with chemicals, just pure, clean, water. When I consume fluid, I mostly do this, drink water. In a year, the number of sodas I consume, I probably can count on my left hand. The stuff offers nothing good for your body, nothing. I have read that for every soda you consume you should also drink a glass of water because it takes water from your system to flush the toxins out of your system. It's bad stuff and the farther away you can get from the stuff, the better off your health will be.
A little trick that satisfies both needs is that I try to drink mugs full of warm fluid through out the day. My two most favorite beverages is Pero with a little milk and herbal tea with a splash of milk. Sometimes at the end of the day, around 9ish, especially if I had a light dinner, a little hunger twinge might hit my tummy. A big mugful of one of these hits the spot and kills that feeling.
This is my favorite herbal right now because there is choice. Every flavor is so tasty and they have a natural sweetness so it's easy to pass up the sugar bowl. A shot of milk adds a creamy to it that is really satisfying. I am a little excited from this image because the Fruit Tea Sampler I have has an orange flavor instead of blueberry. I am excited to try some blueberry!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Day 281 - Healthy Pancakes
My kids love pancakes, they beg for pancakes. If it were possible, they would eat them everyday, at every meal. Me on the other hand? I enjoy the taste, but let's just say my body isn't happy with me when I have them. I have learned to enjoy other items for breakfast.
But I know this isn't so for many people. I have an uncle who loves steak, loves it. But he'll take a stack of pancakes over steak any day, this surpised me the first time I learned this because he REALLY likes steak.
Most of the time, people think to loose weight, they have to give up their beloved pancakes. What I have learned is if you bring nutrition into every meal, and eat properly sized portions and exercise regularly, it doesn't matter if you have pancakes every so often.
Here is a recipe that is adjusted to include lots of healthy ingredients. It is kid tested and in order for everyone to get enough, I have to double this for my family of 6. So you can have your pancakes and eat them too!
Wholesome Whole Wheat Pancakes
2 eggs
1 1/2 c. milk
2 Tablespoons packed brown sugar
4 Tablespoons olive oil
6 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1 cup quick oats
Beat eggs until fluffy. Add wet ingredients and then mix in the dry all together. Let sit for about 5 minutes so the oats will absorb some of the fluid, it will make thicker pancakes. Heat griddle over medium heat (375')
(For those who have avoided pancakes so long that they have forgotten how to actually make them) :o) Cook pancakes until little popped-looking bubbles appear all over and edges are dry enough to get a spatula under it. Flip and wait about half the time it took to cook the first side. Both sides should be toasty, golden brown.
But I know this isn't so for many people. I have an uncle who loves steak, loves it. But he'll take a stack of pancakes over steak any day, this surpised me the first time I learned this because he REALLY likes steak.
Most of the time, people think to loose weight, they have to give up their beloved pancakes. What I have learned is if you bring nutrition into every meal, and eat properly sized portions and exercise regularly, it doesn't matter if you have pancakes every so often.
Here is a recipe that is adjusted to include lots of healthy ingredients. It is kid tested and in order for everyone to get enough, I have to double this for my family of 6. So you can have your pancakes and eat them too!
Wholesome Whole Wheat Pancakes
2 eggs1 1/2 c. milk
2 Tablespoons packed brown sugar
4 Tablespoons olive oil
6 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1 cup quick oats
Beat eggs until fluffy. Add wet ingredients and then mix in the dry all together. Let sit for about 5 minutes so the oats will absorb some of the fluid, it will make thicker pancakes. Heat griddle over medium heat (375')
(For those who have avoided pancakes so long that they have forgotten how to actually make them) :o) Cook pancakes until little popped-looking bubbles appear all over and edges are dry enough to get a spatula under it. Flip and wait about half the time it took to cook the first side. Both sides should be toasty, golden brown.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Day 220 - Snacks
Although I have been able to eat less and exercise more, finding weight loss success, my snacky tendencies are still there. If there is something in the house, whether it's chocolate, or something sweet, I will eat it. Recently, with such snacks in the house, I haven't eaten as much as I typically would, and I think the exercise is able to compensate what I do eat, but I tend to eat more than I would prefer of these treats. This sets up a mental battle that causes conflict and with this conflict, I am setting myself up for a relapse. When we eat more than we plan, we feel guilt, plain and simple. Who is ever happy with themselves when they eat more than they want? When in this state, it's easy to fall off the wagon and just think, "Well, I blew it today, let's go crazy and do better tomorrow." This is the first step to weight gain. I know, I gained 40 pounds once with that mentality.
For me, I understand that no matter how well I am doing, if favorite snacks are in the house, I am going to eat them. The solution? Don't have it in the house. Period. Why torture yourself?
There are times where you can't avoid it. Accept this, and at those times, do your best and understand that a little over doing it, isn't going to hurt you. Exercise more. Drink more water. Do the things that you know help off set it. I found that when I workout at night, afterwards, I am just not snacky. So a game plan for me is that when there is something in the house that might cause me trouble, I need to work out after dinner ASAP. The sooner I work out, the less likely I will be indulging. Evenings are when I don't have much restraint, so I need to be careful and do the things that help me stay in control. The most important thing to remember, if I do consume more than I planned, forgive and move on. It's easy to compensate for a day that had a slip, it's when the slip turns into a week of slips that I will find the weight coming back on.
For me, I understand that no matter how well I am doing, if favorite snacks are in the house, I am going to eat them. The solution? Don't have it in the house. Period. Why torture yourself?
There are times where you can't avoid it. Accept this, and at those times, do your best and understand that a little over doing it, isn't going to hurt you. Exercise more. Drink more water. Do the things that you know help off set it. I found that when I workout at night, afterwards, I am just not snacky. So a game plan for me is that when there is something in the house that might cause me trouble, I need to work out after dinner ASAP. The sooner I work out, the less likely I will be indulging. Evenings are when I don't have much restraint, so I need to be careful and do the things that help me stay in control. The most important thing to remember, if I do consume more than I planned, forgive and move on. It's easy to compensate for a day that had a slip, it's when the slip turns into a week of slips that I will find the weight coming back on.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Day 208 - Stress
I have learned a lot about stress and how I deal with it in the last few weeks. I have come to the conclusion in my life that there are at least 2 ways my body can deal with it. Emotionally or physically. My ENTIRE life, I have dealt with stress through emotional eating. No matter what was going on, if I ate, I felt better for the time being. Chocolate, cake, pop corn, chocolate, ice cream, chocolate... you name it, I would crave it until I could put the kids to bed at night and then have my moment to "deal".
Lately, I haven't used this method to deal with the stress in my life. I don't know why either. How can a person who has dealt with stress the same way for the last 25 years by eating, suddenly change her M.O.? Maybe it's the daily exercise? Maybe I shrunk my stomach with smaller portions? Maybe I am just busy in a way I have never been before? For whatever reason, stress now upsets my stomach to the point where the thought of eating makes me want to hurl? I have heard stress causing such physical manifestations on people and I always wish I would have the problem of not eating instead of gorging. Be careful what you wish for!!
So I was thinking the other day that if over eating is an emotional way to deal with stress, how can a person change their perspective? How can a person change their emotional cravings to something more productive? Not eating is never a good thing. No matter what the stress in my life, I am just not going to stop eating, that would be CRAZY! One thing I have been able to notice in myself is that by not having the cravings, the drive to gorge, I have been able to focus and think about healthy food. Lunch comes, and nothing sounds good, so what to do? Eat something healthy even if typically it's not something that would fill you. During this process, I have learned to focus on the food, not the appetite. I used to just follow my appetite and that is where I would get into trouble. If I craved something, I went and got it. If I wanted more, I would eat until I would be physically ill. Understanding that over eating was my way of dealing with stress, I can more identify what I am doing and try to choose something different.
Lately, I haven't used this method to deal with the stress in my life. I don't know why either. How can a person who has dealt with stress the same way for the last 25 years by eating, suddenly change her M.O.? Maybe it's the daily exercise? Maybe I shrunk my stomach with smaller portions? Maybe I am just busy in a way I have never been before? For whatever reason, stress now upsets my stomach to the point where the thought of eating makes me want to hurl? I have heard stress causing such physical manifestations on people and I always wish I would have the problem of not eating instead of gorging. Be careful what you wish for!!
So I was thinking the other day that if over eating is an emotional way to deal with stress, how can a person change their perspective? How can a person change their emotional cravings to something more productive? Not eating is never a good thing. No matter what the stress in my life, I am just not going to stop eating, that would be CRAZY! One thing I have been able to notice in myself is that by not having the cravings, the drive to gorge, I have been able to focus and think about healthy food. Lunch comes, and nothing sounds good, so what to do? Eat something healthy even if typically it's not something that would fill you. During this process, I have learned to focus on the food, not the appetite. I used to just follow my appetite and that is where I would get into trouble. If I craved something, I went and got it. If I wanted more, I would eat until I would be physically ill. Understanding that over eating was my way of dealing with stress, I can more identify what I am doing and try to choose something different.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Day 187 - Motivations For Change - Reason 2: Holiday Burn Out
Holidays have always been a double edged sword for me. On one hand, it's a reason to get together and celebrate with family and friends. I love spending time with loved ones! On the other hand, I come from a family that celebrates with the greatest food ever! This is a good thing, but not when you feel like food has control over you!! In holiday past, I would consume food in a grazing fashion and yes, at the end of the day, I usually felt like a big cow!! So for me, holidays have been bitter sweet.
This 4th was a beautiful day spent with family and I couldn't ask for better weather! I went into the day feeling really confident that I wouldn't have the same food experience as years prior. I am starting to feel like my new way of eating, is just my way of eating. (I do admit that there are times were I have anxiety wondering if it's all lasting--like I am waiting to fall off the wagon) But as time progresses, those moments are getting farther apart. :0) Anyway, we had the same, glorious fare as you would find at my Aunt and Uncle's 4th of July BBQ. Ribs and snacks for appetizers with virgin Pina Coladas; hamburgers, hot dogs and wonderful salads of green, fruit, pasta and jello varieties; and a dessert table of homemade cookies, ice cream and brownies.
I simply grazed now and then at the appetizers and I had one too many of the BBQ ribs, so by the time dinner game, I really wasn't hungry. But it's the 4th!! So this year, Ben and I decided to share a hamburger (We just had ribs after all) and I had small scoops of the salads. I decided that the appetizers would be my "lunch" so that the next meal would be "dinner". If I didn't change my view, I would just feel like I was eating all day and that is a downer when you are trying to be healthy. This mentality seemed to work because I didn't feel stuffed when I was finished eating.
When dessert came, that is when I knew I needed to be thoughtful. Typically, I would just pork on the dessert until my stomach hurt. So I scanned the spread and decided what my game plan was going to be prior to grabbing a plate. The ice cream looked great, there were waffle bowls there too. Brownies with ice cream and fudge is one of my favorites, but I focused on how I have felt prior after eating a bunch, that sick sugary feeling that you have with the rich residue left in your mouth at the end. So by the time I got to the table, I had already "felt" that I had a serving. So, I grabbed small part of a waffle bowl that broke for someone before me and put a tablespoon of ice cream on it. It was just enough to satisfy. I grabbed a brownie and a cookie and sat down. I have learned that if I imagine that I have eaten more than I am, I get "full" before I am even done with it. I try not to eat dessert absentmindedly, but with purpose and thought. Sometimes I tell myself I am not going to eat a whole one. Just a half. If you eat a half a cookie the 4 times you go up to get one, you really have only eaten 2 instead of the previous 4. That is a 50% reduction!! So this is my new game plan when I get to previously "tricky" situations with food. I try to reduce the behavior while reducing the amount. It seems crazy, but it's working so far and I feel in control. I have to admit, I did eat a couple of cookies more than I would have liked (My aunt did something different with her chocolate chip cookies and I had a hard time eating one) but I have learned that if you forgive yourself and make the next day better, getting back into focus, the cookie fumble won't hurt. I used to beat myself up and then continue the celebration for the rest of the week with left overs and THAT will put on the pounds. Forgiveness is a huge thing for me and my eating behaviors.
This 4th was a beautiful day spent with family and I couldn't ask for better weather! I went into the day feeling really confident that I wouldn't have the same food experience as years prior. I am starting to feel like my new way of eating, is just my way of eating. (I do admit that there are times were I have anxiety wondering if it's all lasting--like I am waiting to fall off the wagon) But as time progresses, those moments are getting farther apart. :0) Anyway, we had the same, glorious fare as you would find at my Aunt and Uncle's 4th of July BBQ. Ribs and snacks for appetizers with virgin Pina Coladas; hamburgers, hot dogs and wonderful salads of green, fruit, pasta and jello varieties; and a dessert table of homemade cookies, ice cream and brownies.
I simply grazed now and then at the appetizers and I had one too many of the BBQ ribs, so by the time dinner game, I really wasn't hungry. But it's the 4th!! So this year, Ben and I decided to share a hamburger (We just had ribs after all) and I had small scoops of the salads. I decided that the appetizers would be my "lunch" so that the next meal would be "dinner". If I didn't change my view, I would just feel like I was eating all day and that is a downer when you are trying to be healthy. This mentality seemed to work because I didn't feel stuffed when I was finished eating.
When dessert came, that is when I knew I needed to be thoughtful. Typically, I would just pork on the dessert until my stomach hurt. So I scanned the spread and decided what my game plan was going to be prior to grabbing a plate. The ice cream looked great, there were waffle bowls there too. Brownies with ice cream and fudge is one of my favorites, but I focused on how I have felt prior after eating a bunch, that sick sugary feeling that you have with the rich residue left in your mouth at the end. So by the time I got to the table, I had already "felt" that I had a serving. So, I grabbed small part of a waffle bowl that broke for someone before me and put a tablespoon of ice cream on it. It was just enough to satisfy. I grabbed a brownie and a cookie and sat down. I have learned that if I imagine that I have eaten more than I am, I get "full" before I am even done with it. I try not to eat dessert absentmindedly, but with purpose and thought. Sometimes I tell myself I am not going to eat a whole one. Just a half. If you eat a half a cookie the 4 times you go up to get one, you really have only eaten 2 instead of the previous 4. That is a 50% reduction!! So this is my new game plan when I get to previously "tricky" situations with food. I try to reduce the behavior while reducing the amount. It seems crazy, but it's working so far and I feel in control. I have to admit, I did eat a couple of cookies more than I would have liked (My aunt did something different with her chocolate chip cookies and I had a hard time eating one) but I have learned that if you forgive yourself and make the next day better, getting back into focus, the cookie fumble won't hurt. I used to beat myself up and then continue the celebration for the rest of the week with left overs and THAT will put on the pounds. Forgiveness is a huge thing for me and my eating behaviors.
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