CTS 5-7 - Lemonade Day #3-5

A quick note family, for I know I am behind. I was with family this past weekend and could not get one via my Blackberry to update my entries.

I am still going strong. Day 3 and 4 of the lemonade was very difficult. So much distraction and temptation around me, but I stuck to my guns. While my family is very supportive, some of our views on eating clash...but I still love them. How did I combat this temptation....I went shopping....lol....seriously don't suggest you do this but it worked.

Today was the usual. Back at work and drinking loads of water. By the way, I use water to break up the juice and its so relieving. Its even helping to keep the coating of the tongue down, which always a good thing.

As for my workout today, I did great. Jogged 2.65 miles on the treadmill, along with doing 1.35 miles on the elliptical. In total, I burned over 400 calories! So proud of myself.

I'm almost to the end family...wish me luck and keep me lifted! Be blessed....

CTS 5 - Lemonade Day #2

Good evening family,

Man....I can't believe it...its actually day 5 on the overall diet plan and day 2 on the lemonade....wow....to think that I have been cleansing my body, mind and soul for a week...very motivating right now.

I have to say implementing the ACV over the cayenne pepper was a great decision. I owe that edition to a great distant friend and adopted big sister, who has been coaching me threwout this entire process. Not only do I feel confident that I will stay consistent on the rest of the diet, but I am so motivated to see this threw to the end.

Today I drove in to see family and just hung out...you know...to get a break AND to attempt to celebrate before I have to go to work....begin to travel again...events/programs, etc and I just wanted to relax. Well, little did I know that I would be surroundede with smells of my fav foods and be tempted to quit and eat them...but I remembered WHY I am doing this diet and the results I will see in the end. That is what kept me focused...that and my handy bottles of water. Lol.

In the end, day 2 on the lemonade was not that bad. I still have 4 more days of the juice to go.... While the substitution of ingriedients helped, the coating of the tongue (from the lemons and maple syrup) is becoming harder and harder to bare. Again, I am dedicated to finish this "mini cleansing" so I can be confident that I can do longer ones in the future.

Until tomorrow family....be blessed!

CTS4 - Lemonade Day #1

Family I am not going to even front....today was uber hard! While I knew that it would be, I guess I didn't REALLY prepare myself for what was to come. I'm not talking about wanting to eat foods, but overall how I feel. Let me explain....

I got up this morning LATE and went to the gym. Did good...ran 2 miles on the treadmill and did 1.37 miles on the elliptical...overall much more than what I've been doing. Today let me know that I can do more than just walking/jogging. Came home afterward and realized that it was almost 11am, and I had not had anything to eat (drink) for breakfast. Due to this, I quickly made my Lemonade Diet.

For my first batch, I have to say that I am proud of myself. It really didn't taste that bad...until i added to much cayenne pepper. Lol. The drink (and my mouth/chest) was literally on fire! But I dranked it....like the G that I am. Again today, I didn't even realize that I had not eaten any solid foods. This makes it so much easier to stay focused and to not cheat (even though there was visions of Twizzlers all around me. lol).

I only started to feel a little nauseated around 2 pm after chugging a gang of the lemonade (I started late so I wanted to catch up....so not a good idea). The light headedness and nausea comes from the toxins moving out of my body. The body starts to feel as something is "wrong" when in actuality its feeling the "norm" (i.e. wanted to eat what you usually eat). Since I already eat decently healthy anyways (push the fruits and veggies), I really didn't experience to much of this. Honestly, I think the majority of it came from the huge amount of pepper I used.

For tomorrow, I plan to replace the cayenne pepper with apple cider vineger (ACV). For those of you who follow my blog, know that I implented this into my diet a few months ago, thanks to Coach Johnson of MVP Fitness. I spoke to "my big sister" (lol) who is well versed on doing the Lemonade Diet, hipped me to this substitution in the juice, who said that it does just as well if not better. PLUS my body is already use to this stuff AND it definitely helps with releasing the toxins daily from the body (movement).

So far so good family! I look forward to progressing threw. OH I FORGOT TO TELL YOU ALL....I also weighed myself today and I've already lost 4lbs! Keep in mind, that I am not even in the middle part of the lemonade phase yet. This is uber excited all....really.

As always, I wil keep you all posted of my experience and findings.....be blessed all and Happy New Year!!!!

CTS Day #2 (all juiced fruit and veggies)

You all will be so proud of me today! I actually made it to the gym to work out. I did 3 miles of walking/light jogging on the treadmill. Since I am taking in way less than usual, I had to alter my work out plan to fit my current (and temporary) needs. I burned about 300 calories and walked about 2.5 miles in the process!

On today's menu, I went back and forth on soup broth mixed with vegetable juice and blended (juiced) fresh fruit. Heating the broth up and drinking it like tea was very fulfilling and I was able to "psych" myself out as well.

Only at around 2:30pm did I start to get a headache. I am still trying to determine where this headache is coming from.....hunger....psychological.....nerves, etc. In the end, it did not win (lol) and I did. Usually the headache is a cue to me that it is time for me to eat...so I broke out my veggie broth...yummy.

They say the way you handle the first few days of "easing in" will determine the success of the over all cleanse.....I guess we will see if I make it threw huh. So far, I've only experienced one time of ultimate hunger and two headaches. Again, I stopped and went to the thrown and asked for MORE strength and used scripture that I know by heart as personal motivation. I also received a woman's encouragement/inspiring/motivational book from my mother for the holidays...I began my day with a reading from it and plan to end on the same note.

Day 2 of the Lemonade Diet............SPANKED!!!!! Lol. Stay encouraged and be blessed family.

Cleansing the Soul (CTS) Day 1

A very quick check in from me tonight family. So far, day went great! No cheating and I stucked to my eating plan (click back to previous post). I will say that I did start to get headaches around 3:45 ish tonight, but I decided that maybe it was time for me to eat (lol), and I had dinner, water and some sugar free gum. In order to help conquer this (mind over matter), I actually stopped and said a small prayer to refocus me on what I was doing (folding clothes..BTW) and soon the headache was gone.

I wanted to share with you a neat thing I did with my veggies today. I steamed some corn and green peas. Threw both in a mixing bowl and added some chopped tomatoes...and discovered a delicious healthy dish. I only used pepper (black) and a hint of Mrs. Dash (no salt, butter, etc were used). The tomatoes gave the veggies some kick and added sweetner to help coat them to taste. After this is all over, I must try this again. I ate on this for lunch and dinner. I also warmed up some vegetarian broth and had as a snack..the morning was a little difficult so I had this in my stash.

Tomorrow is all juice. Fruit and veggies have to be in liquid form. Since I do not have a juicer, I have taken out ALL my frozen fruit and plan to blend it with some water to "juicify" (yes I just made up a word) it. Instead of the herbal laxative tea, I actually continued on with my ACV to help with daily toxin release until I start fully on liquids...then the tea will come into play.

Originally, I had planned to work out, but since I was up uber early for work, I decided to pass. Tomorrow, however, I plan to do 2-4 miles on the treadmill (walking...no runnin). I decided to take my work out down a bit for I know how my adrenaline gets pumping, and heavily desires food afterwards...but I will be on total liquids and water so that is a no go. Lol. I guess we will see.

As for vitamins, I was suggested to not take any, but I did take my allergy meds and some of my all natural supplements (joints, etc). This will all cease by Wednesday of this week.

Until tomorrow family...the orAKAle has spoken......

What's On Your Playlists.....

So I've been speaking with a few followers, and chatting with others about what music to listen to while working out. As you all are aware, I have a regimen that I try to stick with and the majority of the time I am using my Ipod to get threw my workouts (especially when I am forcing myself to stay on schedule:)

First, big shouts out to my girl TraBoogie (on twitter) for putting the question out to the masses, to gather ideas for her play work out list. Below are the top 20 songs (in no order) that always make the cute on one of my many list I've created to be productive while working out:


~ "Boom Boom Pow" - Black Eyed Peas
~ "Imma Be" - Black Eyed Peas
~ "I Got A Feeling" - Black Eyed Peas

(can you tell I really like them...lol)

~ Technologic (radio edit) - Draft Punk
~ Working Day and Night - Micheal Jackson
~ Forever - Chris Brown
~ Universal Mind Control - Common
~ Pocketbook - Jennifer Hudson
~ Super Friend - Mary Mary
~ Get Up - Mary Mary
~ God in Me - Mary Mary

(great motivators and good steady beat for running)

~ Poker Face - Lady Ga Ga
~ Party in the USA - Miley Cyrus (don't judge me....lol)
~ Seven Nation Army - White Stripes
~ Thats Not My Name - The Ting Tings
~ Shut Up and Let Me Go - The Ting Tings
~ I Still Love You - 702
~ I'm Goood - Clispe (a recent addition)
~ Makes Me Wonder - Maroon 5
~ I Know You Want Me - Pitbull

I also listen to a variety of spiritual podcasts and gospel music. Some of my favs that I am cureently subscribed to:

~ ABP King James Version - One Hour a Day
~ Joyce Meyer
~ Joel Olsteen
~ Bill Winston Ministries


Honestly, planning out my work out play lists is a serious matter. I'm a firm believer that what I plug into my ears sets the tone for the attitude throughout my time at the gym, or outside on the pavement (running/jogging/walking). At times when I am feeling low or conscious (due to a set back or a bad day), my playlists, podcast and other music cheers me up to GET UP and GET MOVING.

What songs are on your playlists for exercising family........?

November Activity Plan

And I'm back family......

For those who know me or follow me on Twitter @efficient1, I like to switch up my workout regimen. I totally believe in tricking the body so it doesn't get complacent and stop burning fat (dropping unwanted pounds). Most health professionals will agree that switching up your routine every 4-6 weeks helps to restart the body so it will continue to burn fat and develop muscle. Also, it helps with keep your blood pressure regular and reduces your risk of heart attacks/strokes.

As I continue with my healthy living goals (and as I prepare for my international trip), I decided to implement a special exercise regimen for the month of November. Since this is the first month since August that I am not traveling all over the country(lol), I figure I could make some headway on my weight loss and body toning initiatives.

A few weeks ago I posted my current healthy living regimen (click here) that was inclusive of eating, spiritualitg and exercising (and a few other things). I'm still following those tips, but I wanted to be more detailed in the actual activities to get my heart pumping on a weekly basis. See below for this month's plan:


Workouts
Julian Micheals "30 Day Shred"
Beach Body's "Turbo Jam" and "Hip Hop Abs"
Gym regimen - 3m run on treadmill, row machine & stair climber/bike

Frequency
4-6x's a week ( a minimum of 4 is a must)

So what is your regimen this month family? Do you actually sit and plan out how you will get up and moving daily? Have you been wanting to try something different to spice up your workout life? WELL TODAY IS THE DAY!!!! I challenge all of you all to post your regimens this month on either your blogs, youtube, facebook, twitter, etc. Feel free to put them in the comment section below as well. We are all in this together. Be blessed....

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/ Exercise Log #31

Today's work out was the Get Fit 4 Christ DVD only. I had originally planned to do a 20 minute DVD partnered with it, but I ran out of time. Tomorrow, I plan to get up and do the GF4C DVD and the 20 minute Turbo Jam. I have to work tomorrow and want to make sure my bible reading and work out comes FIRST before I give "the man" my day. Lol. Below is today's food journal:

Breakfast:
+ 2 pieces of whole wheat toast
+ 2 table spoon of reduced fat peanut butter
+ 2 tablespoon apple jelly
+ 4-5 ounces of herbal tea (with raw sugar for sweetening)

Morning snack:
+ NONE

Lunch:
+ 1 salmon fillet (cooked with olive oil margerine, peppar and onion powder)
+ 1 cup of mixed steamed veggies
+ 1 cup apple sauce

Afternoon Snack:
+ 1 fiber 1 bar

Dinner:
+ Subway sandwhich (green veggies, provolone cheese, light mayo)

Evening snack:
+ NONE

Water consumption = 64 ounzes
ACV= 2 teaspoon
Vitamin and Supplements = 2 women's one a day multivitamin, Biotin and Iron
Alcohol = NONE


How do I feel:
I finally ran out of my Bragg's ACV, and decided to try a new one...Eden Organic. Its not that bad, if ACV can have a different taste from brand to brand. Lol. It was more economical AND the salespeople at the health food store suggested for me to try it as well. So far so good....as long as it keeps doing its job.

I have a few days at home this weekend, but next week I am traveling the entire tine. I plan to implement the veggie and fruit system of overloading myself so I don't over eat. As for snacks, I have fiber 1 bars and trail mix. I'm nervous for the last few weeks on the plan I am traveling in and out of town, but that is my life right now. I am confident that 5 lbs will continue to shed off by the end.

I've learned threw this journey that life happens...but we can't beat ourselves up about it. We must forge ahead and do the best we can with the decisions we've made. I am ok with the decisions that I make daily...I can do better, but I am not ashamed. Please remember this family. You will fall short sometimes, but you have to get back up.

I'm now trying to be healthy, not necessarily to drop a bunch of pounds. I want to continue to get fit for God so he can use me as he see fit. He can't use me if I have no energy, I'm not hydrated, I'm not getting sleep, my stress level is up, my blood pressure and cholesterol is up, etc. This is my motivation to take the good and bad and make the best of the situation. I hope you will do the same.

Keep me lifted family....

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 #8 (late post)

Today was my last day in town for work. I think overall I did good with sticking with the plan considering the constraints of eating on the go when you can't cook. Grocery shopping for my home happened tonight so I am set and ready to go for the next few weeks. I have to warn you, I did not eat full meals and snacks. You may see a dab of candy in there to (i know horrible). Below are the details of what I ate today:

Breakfast
+ 3 egg whites
+ 1/4 cup cooked broccoli
+ 1/4 mozerella cheese
+ 1 cup (8 oz) of 100% white grape juice (160 cal/2 fruit servings)

Morning Snack
+ 3 table spoon cottage cheese
+ 1 oz carrot chips

Lunch
+ 1 Hershey Milk Chocolate bar (210 cal) - this was a gift from a counselor I was visiting...I was so hungry and did not have any of my foods on me :(


Dinner
+ Spinach and artichoke dip, peta bread
+ Water
I was so disappointed at this. I waited to late to eat and was getting headaches. As always, another evening student event and my body needed food.


Water consumption = over 70 ounces
Supplements and vitamins = 1 Women's One A Day Multivitamin, 1 Trader Joe's Multivitamin, B12, 1 Biotin and Iron
ACV = 2 teaspoons
Alcohol = NONE


How I Feel
Honestly, I felt like crap on this today. I was so disappointed in the food choices that I made and was beating myself up for it. I was somewhat depressed for the rest of the night, gave myself a headache and went to be early. Tomorrow's post should be better, but again, I have a traveling lunch (food provided at a lunch meeting) event tomorrow and I have no idea of what is on the menu. I keep telling myself "fruits and veggies will set you free" lol. It would be rude to bring my own since its 2 hours away.

Soon I will post on strategies to healthy eating while traveling...for I am learning threw trial and error. I am confident that God will guide me and I have been equipped with the necessary strength, courage and wisdom needed to battle this monster....overeating. Keep me lifted fam....

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!

Mid Day Break #3

During lunch today, I was only able to do my 20 minute work out. I had to get lunch on the go because I barely had time to eat let alone work out. Our assignment today involves Chapter 1-3 of the DVD....that I don't have so I did the "30 Day Shred" by Julian Michaels instead.

Not sure what the DVD is like family, but you get a great work out in that 20 minutes. Her video has 3 circuits of 3 min of strength, 2 min of cardio and 1 minute of abs. I mean I was soaked by the time I got done and I love it. This is a great mid day break and spark to get my blood pumping.

I feel bad because I have not hit my morning water goal. Like I mentioned in my "Morning Questions" post here, I ran out of my water concealer (crystal lite) so its hard to drink that ACV straight BUT I am doing it. I asked for courage and strength and God is sure giving me challenges to build both...I thank him all the way threw.

Until later.......

Daily Food Journal #3

As the days go on, I become more and more comfortable with writing down everything (that is everything) i eat in a day. Lol. I am not embarrassed anymore....that my followers will judge me. Below is a break down of what I ate today:

Breakfast
+ 1 1/4 cup of frosted flakes
+ 3 oz of frozen fruit (peaches, pineapples and strawberry slices)

Morning Snack
+ 20 seedless red grapes
+ Special K bar (90 cal)

Lunch
+ 6 squares of left over Imo's (i know horrible...and is probably why my tummy feels the way it is)
+ 2 cups of spring mix (salad)
+ 3 tablespoons of FF italian dressing
+ 1/4 cup of chopped red onion

Afternoon Snack
+ 8 almonds
+ 1 pack of microwave popcorn w/butter (used two single packs of salt to season)

Evening
(note this week has been an ongoing evening event. Since I don't have groceries still, I've been eating
Panera Bread
+ Tuna fish sandwich on sourdough, lettuce, tomatoe and mayo
+ 1 slice FF american cheese (i added this from my fridge)
+ 1 oatmeal cookie
+ bag of panera chips (i shouldn've ate these...feel so guilty...but it was good)



Water Consumption = 72 oz ( i was slacking today family)
Vitamins = Trader Joe's Women's Multivitamin, B12 and Iron

How I feel

Not sure if there is a fluke in the matrix, but today I felt extra bloated. Let me explain...its like I'm full or stuffed...but I haven't eaten...its really weird. I chalked it up as if my body is adjusting to the ACV maybe....I don't know. I don't feel sick, but I feel uncomfortable when I sit for it feels like my tummy is super huge...I don't know what it is...but I will keep you posted.

I believe in the power of prayer and the bible tells us "ask and you shall receive"....so I am asking for my tummy to be healed if I am in fact "sick". Lol. Please keep me lifted family.