Cleansing the Soul - Conclusion

Another quick post on my cleansing for 2010. I am finally back on regualr diet and I must say I feel great! I am not feeling so heavy and my energy is up. Due to these obvious changes, I can now stick to an AM workout schedule (which I have been).

After getting over day 3 of the lemonade, it was all down hill from there. I only did the lemonade part for 5 days as a first round of cleansing my body...but in the future I will go for the recommended minimum of 10 days. Eating just fruits and veggies is SOOO easy to me now...but my body definitely wants some tuna...and eggs...lol.

I plan to post on my overall results. Are my clothes fitting looser, how much weight AFTER the initial four lbs did I loose, how is my skin and hair looking and/or is my endurance higher....I guess we will see.

Thanks for your support and staying tuned in...until next time. Be blessed

Cleansing the Soul for the New Year!!!

Merry Christmas family! I know I have been gone from this blog for awhile, but I have not forgotten about YOU all and my goals. I hope you all have been successful with any and all of your weight loss goals and want to encourage you to stay prayed up and motivated.

To enter the new year right I am planning to cleanse not only my body, but my soul (and hopefully loose a little weight in the process of it). Starting Monday, I plan to embark on my first lemon diet experience. I have never done this, but am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead (cleaning the body of unnecessary toxins, focus and weight loss). Below I have listed some details of how I plan to progress threw the process:

Day 1-3 = "Ease In" - 12/28-30/09

Day 4-8 = Lemonade Diet - 12/31/09 - 1/4/10

Day 9-11 = "Ease Out" - 1/5-7/10

Day 12 = Regular Diet (transition into live food ONLY)

Please note - Only purified or distilled water can be used in the lemonade mixing. Daily I will drink an herbal laxative tea to assist with the removal of toxins in my body. Also, I plan to drink plain purified water in between the liters of lemonade.

My ultimate goal is to use this as a platform to move me into NO MEAT (including fish) at all. I also plan to implement a raw food diet for the new year as well...TBC on that one...lol

I plan to use this blog to journal my daily journal. While I know this will not be easy (especially once I get to day 2 of the lemonade diet stage), it is worth it to get healthier and more focused. If you want to join with me, feel free and leave a comment so I will know.

Enjoy the rest of 2009 and hope you have a blessed 2010!

Recap of GF4C program and current regimen

TGIF Family!

How have you all been? I know I"ve been MIA, but I hope that you all have been continuing your wellness regimens and seeing positive results. Remember we have to stay motivated daily and inspire not only ourselves but also those around us. Have you done that today?

As for me, I completed the Get Fit 4 Christ plan, but was a little disappointed. I'm not sure if the plan is conducive (and this is just my opinion Coach Johnson) to a distant or online person (if not located in the area with the MVP Fitness studio). I found it very difficult to stick to the plan as someone who travels heavily in my life. Fresh fruit, green veggies, grilling and baking are not as feasible (sometimes) when your in and out of airports and hotels. While it was easier to get apples, oranges and bananas at times, fish and or tuna (since I don't eat the other meats) was very difficult. I found myself trying so hard to get all my protein in to stay on track. I did however loose about 8 lbs, which is not bad for someone who was not at home for the month of October. Lol. For those in the STL area, I highly suggest you look at Coach Johnson's website for his boot camps and weight management programs. I believe they do work if you have access to him and his fitness studio. Find out more information by clicking here.


My Current Regimen:
As of right now, I have implemented my own wellness "rules" and a heavy work out regimen to keep up my good works. Below is a list of things I have implemented DAILY into my wellness regimen:

- 2 teaspoons of Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 Multivitamin, Biotin, B12, Iron, Glucosamine (for bone strengthening since I have a severe arthritis)
- 80+ ounces of water
- Herbal tea or DECAF coffee (I tried Stevia as my sweetener, but we didn't get along...so I use pure raw sugar)
- Fruits (fresh) and Veggies (green), at least 2-3 servings
- Carbohydrate intake is between 20-30 grams (trying my best to keep it under 30)
- No meat EXCEPT for fish, tofu and tuna
- Minimum of 4 workouts (2 being strength training sessions)
- Alcohol = limited to white wine only (2x/month maximum). No more than 2/sitting If I absolutely have to have a martini, one a month.
- Between 6.5-7.5 hours a sleep a night


Well I hope this information is useful for you and thanks to all who showed love and support while on my program. Be blessed family!

Daily Food Journal 32 (LATE EDITION)

Sorry for the late post family. Below is a depiction of yesterday's meals. I will let you know up front, I am only spending 4 days in my home this month due to work travel. That means cooking and preparation is very very limited if out the question. Due to this, I did not go grocery shopping for the food (parishable items) would .....well....parish. Lol.



I will be in and out of hotels, the greater STL areas AND the state of Missouri now until October 31st. I am still taking the healthy tip from Coach Johnson on really eating and pushing the fruit and veggies while traveling. I also eat fruit snacks as a way to curve my sugar or carb cravings as well. They are 100% made with fruit AND can totally kick that craving. Keep me lifted family, for traveling and continuing my healthy regimen poses some difficulty me still:



Breakfast:
+ 2 slices of whole wheat bread
+ 2 teaspoons of reduced fat peanut butter
+ 1 1/2 tablespoon of apple jelly



Morning snack:
+ 1 cup of apple sauce



Lunch:
+ 1 salmon fillet (baked)
+ 1 cup cooked brown rice (with olive oil margerine and dash of season salt)
+ 1 cup of steamed cooked mixed veggies



Afternoon Snack:
+ 1/2 cup of trail mix (peanuts, almonds, cashews, raisins and chocolate pieces)



Dinner:
+ 1 fiber one bar
+ tortilla chips and queso




Water Consumption = 68.5 ounzes
ACV= NONE
Supplements and Vitamins = 2 Women's One a Day Multivitamin, Biotin and Iron
Alcohol= NONE

Daily Food Journal #27

Breakfast:
+ 1 bowl of shredded wheat
+ 1 cup of soy milk


Morning snack:
+ office home made trail mix (m&m's and salted peanuts only)
+ 1 small box of raisins


Lunch: (again another event on campus, had to eat or would not have eaten until 3 pm)
+ green salad with shredded carrots, chopped egg and light dressing
+ bowtie pasta with cooked broccoli and white cream sauce
+ 1 bread stick


Afternoon snack:
+ office home made trail mix (no raisins this time)



Dinner:
+ 2 slices of whole wheat bread
+ 1 1/2 tablespoon of apple jelly
+ 1 1/2 tablespoon of reduced fat peanut butter


Evening snack:
+ NONE



Water consumption = 60 ounzes (epic failure)
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Vitamins and supplements = Women's One A Day multivitamin, Biotin and Iron
Alcohol = NONE


How do I feel.....like my weight loss goals are slipping away from me. My work schedule is consumption my life, I have no groceries (and am not sure when I will be able to get to the store UNLESS I go at like 10:30 pm at night or toooo early in the morning) and I am so tired, at times I can't get the motivation to work out. Keep me lifted....

Daily Food Journal #26

Well I am on week 3 of the eating program, while the rest of the group is on week 4. I started late due to vacation, and wanted a fresh start. I feel so much better and am ready to take on the eating plan. Again, I have travel two days this week (as usual), but again, I'm pushing the veggies and fruit, so I am convinced I will be ok. Below is today's journal:

Breakfast:
+ shredded wheat cereal (62 grams)
+ 1 cup soy milk

Morning snack:
+ 1 large bannanna

Lunch: (lunch meeting on campus with a colleague)
+ 1 bowl (maybe two servings) of cooked broccoli (i'm sure there was a little butter on it)
+ medium red apple
+ Spinach leaves salad (with chopped eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onions and light vinegarette dressing)

Afternoon snack: (i was really hungry)
+ 1 oz of almonds
+ 2 fiber bars (90 cal each)

Dinner: (campus event, so I only had "appetizer" like items to eat)
+ 2 slices of cheddar cheese
+ 4 tollhouse crackers
+ 3 strawberries
+ 7 red grapes
+ chocolate chip cookies


Water consumption = 76 ounzes
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Supplements and Vitamins = 2 Women's One A Day Multivitamin, Biotin and Iron
Alcohol = NONE


How do I feel:
LIke I can conquer the world....and these last 5 pounds that I agreed to loose. I'm still a little nervous for we are nearing the end of the 40 days...but I am confident that I will make Coach Johnson proud. Lol.

No work out today due to personal issues...but I will be back on it by Thursday. Be blessed!

Daily Food Journal #23

Breakfast:
+ 1 1/2 cup shredded wheat
+ 6 oz soy milk
+ 1 small green apple

Morning snack:
+ 1 fiber bar
+ 1 pk twizzler nibbs

Lunch:
+ green salad from Schnucks (spinach leaves, chopped broccoli, green peppers, onions, chopped eggs, shredded carrots, chopped cucumbers, green pees and a sprinkle of sunflower seeds)
+ raspberry dressing

Evening snack:
+ two recees butter cups (:()

Dinner:
+ 1 small salmon fillet
+ salad (romaine lettuce, red onion, fetta cheese and a sprinkle of walnuts)


Water consuption = 80 ounzes
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Supplements and vitamins = Women's One a Day Multivitamin, Biotin, Iron
Alcohol = 4 oz of St. James white wine

Daily Food Journal #22

Breakfast
+ 3 egg whites
+ 2 cups of spinach leaves
+ apple


Morning Snack:
+ 1 oz almonds
+ 1 small orange


Lunch:
+ 4 slices of cheese pizza


Afternoon Snack:
+ NONE


Dinner:
+ 2 small fillets of baked fish
+ 1/2 cup of green cooked pees
+ 1/2 cup of cooked corn
+ 2 chocolate chip cookies

Water consumption = 72 oz
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Supplements and Vitamins = 2 Women's One A Day Multivitamin, B12, Biotin and Iron
Alcohol = NONE




How do I feel......a failure somewhat. School functions cause me to work threw lunch and dinner and instead of skipping a meal, I try to satisfy my hunger and eat as best as I can. I admit, I shouldn've had 4 slices of pizza, but it was plan cheese pizza. The evening meal was again another student event. I don't think I did to bad, but should not have eaten the cookies since I had pizza earlier.



I did however, get fruit and veggies in along with my water intake. That has to count for something huh...
So I will be traveling again this weekend, but decided that I will at least give you all the condensed version of my daily workouts and eating. Tomorrow I plan to get up and do the GF4C DVD again before I head out.

Keep me lifted family....

Daily Food Journal #18

Below is a list of what I ate today:

Breakfast:
+ 3 eggs (pepper, a dash of season salt, green peppers and onions)
+ Spinach leaves
+ mozzarella cheese

Morning Snack:
+ 1 cup nonfat yogurt
+ pineapples


Lunch:
+ 4 oz canned tuna
+ mixed vegetables (2 cups spinach leaves,1 cup steamed green beans)
+ FF ranch dressing


Afternoon Snack:
+ Peanuts (unsalted and roasted)
+ raisins


Dinner:
+ Tortilla chips (entirely to many of these)
+ Queso dip (salsa and cheese)

Water Consumption = 60 oz (I'm slipping on this today)
Vitamins = Women's One A Day Multivitamin, B12,Iron and Biotin
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Alcohol = NONE


How am I feeling
While today was a great day for me physically and my work out was awesome, my eating was average. I stuck with the plan as best as I could. By the time dinner rolled around, I wasn't really hungry so I didn't cook. While you will see that I had loads of spinach today, my appetite came and went every hour and I found myself just really snacking, rather than eating meals (accept for breakfast).

I am noticing that this is happening once I start drinking the ACV....my appetite disappears. I will have some hunger moments, but my planned meals get off track for I don't eat when I am not hungry. Guess I'm still learning my body, so I will not beat myself up.

Since I did not run today, I plan to do that tomorrow so lots of water and food essentials is key so I can survive it! Lol.

Daily Food Journal #16

Below is today's food journal entry:

Breakfast
+ 2 hard boiled eggs
+ 1 cup of shredded wheat
+ 4 oz of soy milk

Morning snack
+ 1 small (home grown) apple

Lunch = Subway
+ 1 foot long whole grain bread
+ turkey breast
+ Veggies (spinach, green peppers, cucumbers, onions)
+ Bananna peppers
+ american cheese (i think I tasted that)
+ light mayo
+ chocolate cookie

Afternoon Snack (was eating 4 hours after lunch)
+ Protein Drink
+ 14 almonds

Dinner
+ 2 cups spinach
+ 4 oz of tuna (in water)
+ 1/4 cup chopped onion
+ 1/4 mozerella cheese
+ brown rice (3/4 cup)

Water consumption = 64 ounzes
ACV = 1 tablespooon
Supplements and Vitamins = 1 Women's One A Day, Biotin, B12 and Iron
Alcohol = NONE


How Am I Feeling:
Family this week was crazy and ended in me being sooo exhausted today. There is no exercise log for today, for I literally had to motivate myself to leave my office to drive home...sad I know....lesson learned, don't ever let antyhing get more important than myself! In order for God to use me to do his work, I have to have ENERGY to fulfill his will.

Lunch was a semi flop...due to back to back meetings, I could not go home AND if my student worker didn't go to get me Subway..I've wouldn't ate. While I didn't realize that there was turkey on my sanwhich..until after the fact (because I was scarfing it down...bad I know.....need to take my time), it was still filling. I had to scarf down my lunch in literally 10 minutes for I had yet another meeting in the afternoon to attend.

Make sure you are putting yourself first family...no one (but the Lord himself) is more important than YOU.

Be blessed

Daily Food Journal #14 - VERY LATE POST

Below is my food journal from two days ago (i'm going to get it together promise)

Oh family...I am empowered and motivated today....why you may ask...because I weighed in for the first time while on the "Get Fit 4 Christ" program! I am officially 5 lbs down in less than 3 weeks! That is so awesome and I thank God again for this opportunity and leading Coach Johnson to selecting me for this journey.

While it is a struggle to eat on the plan (and well at that) while on the road working, I'm making it work. Coach Johnson has given me some tips to stay on track when I can't cook and/or have to work threw a meal (like today). Its all about learning, restructuring and implementing in my mind. No...I am not perfect and can't stick to the plan like th others to the T...but I can give it my all, ask God for guidance and continued strength and STOP MAKING EXCUSES! If I do all the above, I will be fine....and that is how I dropped that amount of pounds in a short amount of time.

Below is an account of what I ate today:

Breakfast

+ 1 1/2 cup of honey nut cheerios

+ 1 bananna

+ 1 ginger snap cookie (don't ask...had a weak moment...and it was delish!)

Morning Snack

+ 1 box of raisins

+ trail mix (peanuts, cashews, alomonds, raisins and chocolat pieces)

Lunch

+ the rest of the trail mix I could eat

Evening Snack

+ 16 red grapes

+ yogurt parfait (found this in my lodging fridge...its was good)

Dinner (went out to celebrate my sis getting a promotion)

+ 2 slices of cheese pizza

+ 1 soft pretzel w/cheese


Water Consuption: 56 ounzes
ACV: NONE
Supplements and Vitamins: 1 Women's One A Day, Biotin, B12 and Iron
Alcohol: 1 lemon drop martini, 1 long ice land ice tea

How I feel:

Recently, Coach Johnson called me to check in to see how I was doing. While we played phone tage, he didn't have to take the time to see how I was doing, but he did. His kind words was to keep up the good work and congratulations on what I have accomplished thus far. It felt good to know that I had at least one person on my side.

I want to pay it forward the kindness he showed me. I'm hear to encourage all participants and those who follow me to keep up the good work and don't give in. Pray over EVERTHING and that includes your weight loss goals. God is the answer to everything and when you think your alone, you have him AND me :). Stay encouraged, read your bible daily, surround yourself with like minded individuals, take can't, won't and NO out of your vocabulary and replace them with CAN, WILL, SUCCESS and YES to reach your goals. I believe in you and can attest that it takes time and effort on this journey.

I want to leave you all with this scripture - "the race is not given to the swift, but those who endureth to the end". Remember that you don't have to rush to get to the finish line..its about what you've learned during the race that will assist in your completion. For so long I wanted my last 20 lbs off....and I wanted it done like in 2 months...lol...and while some have done it, my race is different. Its me and the Lord and I am competing against no one but myself (in a positive way). My outlook on life while on this journey has changed significantly and because of it, I will come out stronger. Take a few minutes to read, reflect and get moving family. Be blessed!

Daily Food Journal/Exercise Log #13

Yesterday's post is late I know, but better late than never family. I was super busy with work has to eat two meals outside of the meal plan...unplanned. This is the ways of my job, but I am excited to report that I am making good choices.

I'm feeling a little better on this day, then the day before. I have to stay focus and keep praying and reading so God stays the focus of my life. I'm so very blessed and gracious for Coach Johnson choosing me to be apart of this program. I want to make him proud, but also inspire my followers to try some of his techniques as well. I hope I won't let you down Lyle!

Please see below for my meals and workout routine for today:


Breakfast
+hard boiled eggs
Morning Snack:
+ 1 cup vanilla non fat yogurt
+ carrot sticks
Lunch (portions are estimation)
+ mexican rice (1 cup)
+ refied beans (1/4)
+ 1 cheese enchillada
+ salsa (1 teaspoon)

Lunch Snack (was like 3 hours later)
+ frosted flakes
+ soy milk
Dinner (was at AppleBee's with a work client)
+ Cajun Lime Talapia meal w/all broccoli (no rice)
Water Consuption: 64 ounzes
ACV: 1 tablespoon
Supplements and Vitamins: 1 Women's One A Day, Biotin, B12 and Iron
Alcohol: 1 pomegranite margarita



Workouts:

+ MVP Fitness Dumbell Blast circuit (2x) = 8 minutes

+ MVP Fitness Abs from Hell circuit (2x) = 8 minutes
+ Tabe Bo Basic Boot Camp = 35 minutes

Daily Food Journal #12

Below are the details of what I ate today:

Breakfast
+ 1 hard boiled egg
+ Fiber One cereal bar
+ 1 medium banana

Morning Snack
+ 1 cup plain yogurt
+ pineapple cup
+ apple

Lunch
+ Baked salmon fillet
+ 2 slices of whole grain bread (w/margerine and sugar free strawberry jelly....I was sooo hungry)
+ 1 cup of steamed green beans
+ 1 small apple

Afternoon Snack
+ 1 pineapple cup
+ Protein Drink

Dinner
+ 4 oz grilled tofu
+ 1 cup steamed green beans
+ 1 cup cooked brown rice (with margarine and a sprinkle of season salt)
+ 6 strawberries (ate these while I was cooking dinner)

Water consumption = 72 ounzes
Supplements and vitamins = 1 Multivitamin, B12, Biotin and Iron
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Alcohol = NONE

How I Feel
I feel like I'm never going to get to my goal, to be honest with you. I try to hold it together, but its days like this that I refer to (when I talk about doubts, etc). I am trying so hard and I just feel that I am getting no where. I'm not sure what my problem is today, but I have thought about giving up twice today....that is not usual for me. I am hoping tomorrow will be better. Please keep me lifted.....

Daily Food Journal/Exercise Log #11

New week, new days, new GOALS that I will stick too. While there were many unforeseen eating out meals this past weekend, that is life...that is my life and I've decided that I will not keep apologizing or make excuses for it. It is what it is and I will have to work with what I got. lol. Eating and socializing is part of my current career path and personal life. You can still eat well, exercise and be successful at loosing weight, even if a few meals are consumed outside of your house. Its about ME and the choices I make that makes the difference. Another points I've learned as I continue this journey.

No exercising today, but I did do a 45 minute cycling class yesterday then ran 1.8 miles all under 90 minutes. That puts me at 4 days of work out last week. This week I WILL clock a minimum of 5 days with 3 days of weight training. Below is what I ate today:


Breakfast:
+ 1 pack of instant oatmeal (mable and brown sugar)
+ 2 hard boiled eggs (w/pepper and a sprinkle of salt)

Morning Snack:
+ NONE


Lunch:
+ Trail mix (peanuts, almonds, cashews, raisins and chocolate pieces)


Afternoon Snack:
+ NONE


Dinner:
+ Salad (w/7 carrot chips, chopped onions and green peppers and 3 tablespoon FF italian dressing)
+ 1 baked talapia fillet
+ 1 cup mixed veggies (corn, green beans ad carrots

Water Consumption = 80 oz
Vitamins = B12,Iron and Biotin (second day of no multivitamin)
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Alcohol = NONE

How am I feeling
Blessed and highly favored family, highly appreciative of all my blessings and all that I"ve achieved thus far. The road gets tough and at times I want to fall down and NOT get back up...but reality is I have to get back up. Period. Lol.

No fruit today EXCEPT for the raisins and I ate entirely to late for dinner. Oh yeah, I missed a meal and snacks....yeah I'm on track aint I? I hope the rest of the participants in the program, Coach Johnson and those following my journey don't think negatively of me, for as you can read It is hard to stick with the eating plan BUT I think I am doing better. Baby steps as I mentioned before.

Unlike others, I don't need to loose 40 pounds plus...honestly I could loose 20 and be healthy and in range (BMI, weight to height, etc).....but just like those who have a more dire need to drop pounds fast, I struggle as well YES to get those measly last few pounds off. While looking at me it may see that I am doing fine, I still struggle like the next person. I don't know, maybe its just me.....lol

I've included a slide show below of my up to date weight loss success. Tell me what you think....be blessed

Daily Food Journal/Exercise Log #9

I honestly planned to work out today, but due to my schedule, the fact I didn't take a vitamin AND I'm just plain exhausted from all the travel this week, I did not. That puts me at ONLY 3 days of working out. Tomorrow I have already mentally prepared for the my AM cycling class, along with running for 25 minutes. I do have a meeting to be at (that is an hour away may I add) so I will be pushing it, but I will make it work.

In my post yesterday, I mention the frustration and difficulty in sticking to an eating plan and traveling....I will continue to pump that message today in this post, for I still have not found a solution that works for me...BUT at least I am not eating fast food :)

Since I failed so horribly yesterday, I wanted to try day 3 of the eating plan again...I think I did pretty good. See the details below:

Breakfast
+ 3 egg white omelet
+ 1 cup spinach
+ onion and green peppers

Morning Snack
+ 1/2 cup cottage cheese
+ carrot chips
+ 1 small apple

Lunch
this meal was provided at my meeting, so I made the best choice possible...I was hungry
+ Veggie sandwich from domino's (it was not that good)
+ bad of chips
+ chocolate cookie

Afternoon Snack
+ Protein drink

Evening
+ Salad w/:
= 1 1/2 cups of spinach leaves
= 1 1/2 tablespoon of cottage cheese
= 2 tablespoon of FF italian dressing
+ 1 talapia fillet (seasoned with black peppar, ms dash and a hint of garlic salt) i don't eat shell fish, so I substituted the fish for the shrimp
+ 1 cup of mixed veggies (green beans, corn and carrot mix)


Water Consumption = 59.9 oz thus far (but it will be at 64 by the time I go to sleep)
Vitamins = B12,Iron and Biotin (totally slipping with my multi vitamin today
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Alcohol = NONE

How I feel

Very good question...how do I really feel. Its hard a times is my answer. I know that God will:
~ fight my battles
~ provide me with all my needs
~ keep his promises
~ use me to do his will
~ manifest blessings on HIS time
~ will not let anything come against me...for I am child of his

but even with this, I struggle to not revert back to taking back the burdens I laid on him (weight loss, success, etc) and fully trust that he will bring me threw. I open myself up like this to you family to show that we all have some doubts, but we have to remember to lean on the word and in times of doubt, stop and go to the throne (asking for more strength).

I'm reading Acts now (slightly behind with the program reading but trucking threw) and I love how the disciples were questioned and beaten because they were proclaiming the gospel to all and leading people to join Christ church. I guess my thought is if they can stand against those who were willing to beat them, lock them up and event condemn to death....can't I trust that God will deliver me from the mountains of insecurity with health weight management in my life........ponder on that family and be blessed.

Daily Food Journal/Exercise Log #7

Today I was really busy family so I decided to take the day off from working out. This entry will serve as both my daily food journal and exercise log.

While very productive with working remotely from another location, I decided to pre pack my snacks and lunch so I can get my food in. I did miss my afternoon snack and reorganized some foods in the meals since I did not have them at the lodge I was staying at. Also, since I'm heading home tomorrow, I wanted to have one more slice of the carmel cake (to tie me over till thanksgiving, for that is when it will make its next cameo...lol). Below is a break down of what I ate today:

Breakfast
+ 2 egg white omelet
+ 1 cup spinach
+ 1 pk apple cinnamon oatmeal
+ 5 strawberries


Morning Snack
+ 1/2 cup cottage cheese
+ carrot chips
+ 1 small apple

Lunch
+ 1 salmon fillet
+ steamed asparagus

Afternoon Snack
+ none


Evening
+ Salad w/:
= 2 cups of spinach leaves
= 4 oz of canned tuna in water
= less than a 1/4 cup of cottage cheese
= less than 1/4 cup of cooked corn
= 1/4 cup of cooked broccoli
= 2 tbsp of light italian dressing
+ 1/2 cup of green beans
+ 1 generous slice of homemade carmel cake (last time of eating until thanksgiving)

Evening Snack
+ 1 small orange (since I didn't eat it at lunch)


Water Consumption = 71 oz
Vitamins = 2 Women's One A Day Multivitamin, B12 and Iron
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Alcohol = NONE

How I feel

I am actually really surprised that I am not that sore from yesterday's boot camp. Due to scheduling, I plan to participate in tomorrow's AM boot camp so I can get two sessions in before heading out. Now...lets see if I can get up tomorrow morning at 5:30 am to make it on time. Lol.

As you can see, for dinner I loaded up on the veggies and really pushed my fruit today so I could have a piece of cake. I am really trying my best to stay on the eating plan. It makes it easier if I have the food in my house, but since I'm in town on business, its difficult to stick totally with the plan. I have to admit that I am proud of myself, for I think I am doing well. This eating plan has forced me to step out of my comfort zone and eat new foods (ie sweet tomatoes and egg whites). I think this is a good start for incorporating new healthier foods into my diet. I guess we will see once its time for me to weigh in.

Like I've said before, the daily bible reading really helps to keep me grounded. When I get tempted OR my old thinking tries to come into my daily routine, I know I can turn to the Word but now I can relate and even retain what I am reading. This has been a long time goal for me and I thank God that he used those around me (and basic accessible resources) to bring me closer to him. I will admit that I get discouraged, for I feel that I'm not getting anywhere, am physically getting bigger or beat myself up for eating something on the "bad list". But you know what family, its one day at a time. I have to struggle somewhat on my journey to a healthier and more spiritual me in order to receive that great blessing (success in my goals) at the end. At times I think that we can be our own monsters/mountains with the way we think and treat ourselves.

In Luke 9:25 the word tells us "for what is a man advantaged, if he gains the whole world and lose himself or be cast away". This scripture really hit me last night as I was reading. I don't want to obtain any and everything, to in turn lose who I AM. If weight management was so easy as turning on a light, lol, what would be the lesson? What struggle is there to make me a stronger person? How can I go into battle for the Lord if I've experience no resistance? I don't want to do any and everything, in the process selling myself out and hurting others, to get what I want (success on all ends). Think about that tonight family and meditate on the scripture if you haven't read it. It will change your life.

Stay encouraged and be blessed....

Daily Food Journal #6 (late edition)

Disclaimer - I had wireless connection issues so I apologize for the tardy post!

While the rest of the participants are well into the eating plan given to us by Coach Johnson, ya girl is just starting day one. Lol. Slacker you may say...not even. I was not able to eat according to the meal plan (click here for details) due to vacation and not having a kitchen. But today is the day and I must say that I did well. I was a little full at lunch, but got all the foods in. While they were hard to eat together, I forced it down my throat. Below is a break down of what I ate today:

Breakfast
+ 3 egg whites
+ 2 cups spinach leaves
+ 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese
+ 1 slice of whole wheat toast (with a pat of whipped butter and 1 tbspn of strawberry jelly)

Morning Snack
+ 1 hard boiled egg
+ 1 small green apple

Lunch
+ 1 can of tuna in water (4 oz total) - added pepper, ms. dash and 2 drops of light italian dressing) + 2 slices of whole wheat bread + 10 stalks of steamed asparagus + 1/2 cup of apple sauce

Afternoon Snack
+ Carrot chips
+ Orange

Evening
(I got out of boot camp at 7:50 pm so I decided to do a combo with my evening snack and dinner)
+ 1 sweet potato (with sour cream, raw sugar and a dab of whipped natural butter)
+ broccoli
+ strawberries
+ Cottage cheese
+ slices of turkey leg (so while I was going to try to force myself to eat the chicken, I couldn't stomach it. Since turkey is the last meat that I weeded myself off of while going pescatarian, my father told me to bite the bullet and try his smoked turkey...which I did and liked! This was my way of compromising for I did not have any salmon to substitute. Will have some tonight though)



Water Consumption = over 65 oz
Vitamins = Trader Joe's Women's Multivitamin, B12 and Iron
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Alcohol = NONE

How I feel

I had so many opportunities to cheat today. There is left over food EVERYWHERE from the holiday, but I must stay strong. I think this is one of those times were Coach Johnson was referring too about "praying for weight loss", because I needed the Lord today. I truly feel its mind over matter. And like another participant blogged, its about "free will" and taking some control and being accountable for your actions. I don't have to go to the kitchen and get the popcorn, instead I can drink water and or go read my bible...and that is what I did.

One of the things I contemplated today was how to pray for weight loss. At our first intro meeting, Coach Johnson mentioned being careful for what you pray for (we've all heard that), so I have been very intentionally about how and what I say in my daily prayer. I want guidance and continued strength, but also I want to do my part. We can not expect some wand to be waved and BAM.....30 lbs gone (oh if it was only that easy)...and honestly, I don't want anything that easy. I like challenges hence my reasoning for doing this program.

My inspirational message for today is to stay encouraged and remember its a life style change..not a 40 day only change. This program is the beginning to a new you and you will have to practice patience to achieve your SMART goals. I'll keep you lifted family and I ask you will do for me.....be blessed

Daily Food Journal #5

Since I was on vacation, I decided to start the meal plan tomorrow. I am pretty proud of how I ate on the holiday. Below are the details of what I ate today:

Breakfast
+ Tortilla chips

Lunch
+ Popcorn mix (carmel and cheddar)


Dinner
I loaded up on the veggies like Coach Johnson's trainer Holly Rigsby mentions in the post "Labor Day Fitness Tips" found here.
+ Green beans (with onion and tomatoes mixed in)
+ Mixed veggies (brocolli, cauliflower and onions)
+ Corn (had onions and a hint of chopped tomatoes as well)
+ Salmon fillet (was marinated)

Dessert
+ 1 slice of homemade carmel cake made with splenda (aunt makes this every holiday gathering and i HAVE to have a piece)

Water consumption = 78.5 (if I calculated correctly)
Supplements and vitamins = Multivitamin, B12 and Iron
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Alcohol = NONE


How I Feel
I feel like I've conquered a beast today family! Like I mentioned above, my aunt bakes the best carmel cake (the icing is carmel made with splenda) and we usually tear it up. Today, I had a piece but only one slice. I am proud of myself.

Part of my weight management philosophy is that I refuse to deny my body the foods I like...but I have to learn to eat portion sizes and control urges. Instead of having two really huge slices, I had one regular one. Luckily, my aunt cooks all her desserts with splenda to make them healthier for the family.

Usually I drink my other aunts famous Sangria and/or wine, but I decided to not drink today. Considering we dranked wine on the vacay, I figures my body needed a break.

So motivated to start the eating plan tomorrow. I went grocery shopping and everything, so I guess we will see. Since I'm a pescatarian (no meat except for fish), I will have to get creative in substituting for the lean beaf, chicken and turkey mentioned on the meal plan.

9/5/09 Meal Plan Update

As I mentioned before, I am on vacay for the holiday. Have a great time by the way :)
Its been a challenge to participate in the meal plan that Coach Johnson sent us, that started yesterday, but I think I have done well with what I had to work with here. While I am ashamed at some fo the decisions I made (see lunch), I am a work in progress and know that with determination and continued prayer, I can over come bad food choices and/or over eating. This is not an excuse, but a reminder that this is a learning journey, and we all fall short. How you move on from it, determines part of how you will succeed in the end. I do not have a fridge or kitchen so I have to eat out, but I believe that you can still eat healthy while not cooking. Below is my detail list of my meal plan today:

Breakfast
+ 2 egg white omelet w/green peppers, onions and provolone cheese (they did not have mozarella)
+ 2 slices of whole grain wheat toast, parkay magerine, and strawberry jelly (they did not have apple)
+ 16 oz of orange juice

Lunch
+ 1/2 of a funnel cake with glaze (yeah...this was bad, but I couldn't resist)

Dinner
Ruby Tuesday's salad bar
+ 2 1/2 cups of green lettuce w/cucumber slices, red onion slices, lima beans, green peppers, 4 baby tomatoes, bracolli shears, blue cheese crumbles, regular ranch dressing
+ 10 seedless red grapes

Water consumption = over 50.5 oz (need to step it up tomorrow)
Supplements/Vitamins = Multivitamin, B12, Iron
ACV = none
Alcohol - white wine


How I feel
We decided to go to Wal Mart to get some non parishable such as bottled water, tortilla chips and salsa. The salsa can serve as a vegetable if I can't get all my servings in, and the chips will serve as my low calorie NON TRANSFAT carb snack (which will also satisfy my carb craving).

We did visit the winery so I did have a few glasses of wine. This is an area that I have come to terms needs a change. I don't drink daily or during the week at that. But I have notice that when around friends or visiting in town, I have been drinkign more wine than usual. I personally feel that is directly related to past weight gain and also a difference in the stomach area.....but I have to make the decision to reduce or remove my alcohol consumption if I want to see a difference. No excuses....

While I was nervous about my vacy, I am really proud of myself. I have been wating my water consumption, getting veggies and pushing away from the table when full. That is a difference that I have seen with me. I plan to start the MVP Fitness Meal Plan on Tuesday. This way I have my groceries and I am not tempted. Lol.

Keep me lifted family!

Daily Food Journal #4

Its so not a game right now...I need groceries. Lol. I used up the last 1/4 cup of oatmeal this morning...that's a sign you need to go grocery shopping. Lol. Thank goodness for Coach Johnson and the eating list. I can now have some direction. I need to get it together. Below is a break down of what I ate today:

Breakfast
+ less than a 1/4 cup of plan oatmeal (1 pack of raw sugar used)
+ 5 grapes
+ 3/4 cup of dry frosted flakes (can you tell that I have no food in my house)

Morning Snack
+ 1 cup of FF and sugar free chocolate pudding

Lunch
+ Panera Bread (yes again)
~ small classic salad (3 cucumber slices, 5 onion slices, 4 tomato wedge slices and green lettuce)
~ 1 small cup of black bean soup (yummy :))
~ 1 chocolate chip cookie (i couldn't resist, but this is the last time I promise)


Afternoon Snack
+ 1 cup of Walmart potato salad (it was nasty...shouldn't ate it)

Evening
(this is the last night of the event so I will be eating healthier dinners)
+ 1/2 cup of white sticky rice
+ 1 grilled salmon w/teriyaki (sp) sauce (one fillet)
+ salad (lettuce, ginger and oil dressing)


Water Consumption = 64 oz ( i was slacking today family)
Vitamins = Trader Joe's Women's Multivitamin, B12 and Iron
ACV consumed = 2 teaspoons

How I feel

Yesterday I spoke about my tummy and feeling bloated or "stuffed". I am happy to report that I feel so much better today. I know that I am self conscious in some of my clothing and in general, but I think the ACV is helping to cleanse my system. I appreciate that .

Usually I would be 2 chapters away from completing today's bible reading, but due to my schedule I am behind (according to my standards). I will get it together, but I must say that the reading has been very helpful and it has stirred up something new in me. I can make time for God...more than I thought and I WANT TOO. This program has been a God sent and I'm excited to see the end results.

As for the fasting, I'm a little nervous for I'm use to eating on a schedule, but with God for me, who can be against me.

Nighty night family!