Day 3 P90X

Hi all you people out there! I am feeling so good! Today was shoulder/tri/bi and Ab RipperX--which really sucks. I did really well with the arm/shoulder exercises. They are pretty much the same as what I've been doing--just MORE. I'm a little sore, just enough to know I worked hard, not enough to make me hurt.

I had the most wonderful protein pancakes--recipe from a friend on the BeachBody boards--her name is Shione. She has the absolute best body. Here's the recipe:

6 egg whites
1 small banana
1/4 cup oatmeal
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
I throw everything into my magic bullet and blend. Makes 3 pancakes.

LOVED them!!!! Protein and carbs all in one!

We now have 5 people in our Clothing Challenge! Tomorrow is the start date. If you would like to join I would love to have you! Just send me an email at: cranappleplace@yahoo.com All the participants will be posted on my side bar and you can watch their progress. I am trying to think up some prizes. Nothing fancy, just something that says, "You did it".

Today's Affirmations
I am enjoying my workouts
I am sticking with my challenge
I am a happy person

Day 2 P90X

Picture courtesy of Jamie.

Today I am dead...holy crapola. If I thought yesterday was tough, today was KILLER. Plyometrics was the deal of the day. Jump training. It sucks...really, really bad. Since I should weigh about 120 lbs, and currently weigh 190..trying to jump my chubbie little body in the air is like lifing a ton! We did jumping jacks, jack squats, frog leaps, tires, monster tires, heisman jumps, etc. Now I know you may not know what these names are, I don't know if they are common names, or names made up by the trainer for P90X. I have one word for Tony Horton (trainer)--EVIL. The DVD is one hour. We do each movement for 30 seconds. There are scheduled breaks and water breaks. I ran out of gas half way thru. I felt pretty good about doing 1/2 an hour. I went to email my coach, and as I was sitting there, got a second wind...I decided to pick up where I left off. I am so glad I did. I really feel like I accomplished something BIG!

I tell ya...P90X is tough. It's a true bootcamp. If you want a challenge, do it. There is nothing better out there. I am sore, I am tired, I am sweaty, but I FEEL GOOD!!!!! I feel strong! I know it's only been two days, but these two days are tougher than anything I have ever done, and I did it!!! Let's hope I can keep up my enthusiasm and focus. I know I will...if you help me!

CLOTHING CHALLENGE! I have 4 participants! C'mon...let's get a few more. I'd like to have 10. If you don't want to post your pic. That's fine. Send it to me anyway and I'll keep it. We'll post it at the end of 30 days. That way I can hold you accountable.

My Jamie girl has posted hers on her blog! Woohoo! Iwill post all the links to participants blogs by the 1st--whoa! that's only two days away! Man, time is slipping.

Today's Affirmations:

I am doing P90X
I am eating to fuel my body
I am a lean mean fat burning machine! Yeah!

Day 1--P90X

I did it! I did my first P90X workout--Chest/Back. It was hard, but not as hard as I had it worked up in my mind. There were a few things I absolutely could NOT do! Such as: diamond pushups and decline pushups. I think I did one of each. Oh well...it's a start! Right!? Gotta start somewhere. I am so excited. I hope I can keep up the intensity, focus, and enthusiasm. After I jumped around high-fiving myself, I realized that the DVD was still running and I had Ab RipperX to do! Well...you have GOT to be kidding!! That ain't right. That part is just sick. Needless to say I struggled to get out 5 reps on most of the exercises. After 8 min. I gave up. I think I will need to this part in the evening when I am more "fresh". Holy crapola!! I am feeling a little bit queasy. I have heard that people feel this way after doing the P90X work outs. I hope it goes away soon.

In my Day 1 pics, I look fatter in my belly area, but my bodyfat does not reflect that. My shorts are a lot tighter than the pants I had been taking pics in. Pushed it all in and up! Kinda like a fat little sausage! LOL!! Again....it's a place to start. I have to remember how far I've come since January!

I am up 5 lbs, I don't see how that can be...my body fat is the same as last week. I know it's not muscle--I think I pigged out on carbs last week and I'm retaining water. It will all work out in the end.

CLOTHING CHALLENGE: Don't forget to get me pics of you in a tight pair of jeans, skirt, or shorts! The challenge starts on May 1st. I am so excited. So far I have Rob and Jamie and myself. C'mon, guys...sign up. How fun would this be?! Send your start pic to: cranappleplace@yahoo.com by May 1st.

30 Day Challenge

I have decided that since I am starting P90X tomorrow...I want to do a "Clothing Challenge" along with it. I am going to pull out a pair of pants that are way too small and see how much progress I can get in 30 days.... I want YOU, my readers...to do the same. Find that dress, skirt, shorts, or pants that don't fit. I want you to take a pic and email it to me at cranappleplace@yahoo.com . I will post them on my blog.

I think I will have a prize for the winner, and a couple of runners up. What do you think? Anyone want to donate something? T-shirts, water bottles, journals, whatever....I'll come up with something.

There are enough of you reading my blog that can do this! We should be able to come up with at least 20 people!

We will start May 1st. I know...that is only a few days away...but how long does it take to find a pair of pants and take a pic????

If only fitness was this simple!

You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take. –Wayne Gretzky

From Maria Kang's Fitness Cure:

Shoot for a solid, fat free, exercise regimented day…

Shoot for a size 4 jeans or a bright bikini this summer…

Take a shot at being the best version of yourself…

Most people are too scared to try -

Most can’t even fathom being anything but who they are now..

Are you taking the shots?

Are you taking risks?

Are you trying, over and over again….even if you miss?

The higher the ratio, the higher the possibilities…

As you keep performing and fine tuning your mind, body and spirit -

That ratio will change.

And so will you.

I have mentioned that I subscribe to Maria Kang's Fitness Cure. There is a link to her website on my side bar. She has provided me with a LOT of good advice and motivation. You should sign up and get yours today! Don't wait!

I know a little bit about being scared to try something new. I have decided to not let that get in the way of my "project". The project I'm talking about is ME! I'm about to embark on a really extreme fitness program, and to tell the truth...I'm skeered! I have been working out for two years. I passed the "fit test" that Beachbody has on the site. I have a coach that says I can do it. So...I guess I can do it! It's time for a real challenge! It's time to push myself, and see what I'm made of. I want to see what I can DO! What about you? Are you stuck in a rut? Are you not seeing changes in your body. Is your program stale? Then you need to suck it up and step out of your comfort zone! Come with me! I can use the company and the support :)

Y'all Know How Much I Love Rocky

Pretty inspiring words.

Day 42

Here are the promised pics. The ones on the left are January 2, 2008. The others were April 14, 2008. I've made some progress! Woohoo! Just thought you all would like to see where I started prior to starting my blog.

I started at 51.9% Body Fat in January. I am now 36.9%. My bust was 47, now is 43.75. My waist was 39, now 37. My hips: 47, now 43.75. Thighs: 26, now 23.


I ordered two new suits for work today--smaller size pants! My bottoms are size 14, but my tops are still 16's or even 18's depending on the item. My goal is a 10.

today's affirmations:

I am happy with me
I am wearing smaller clothes
I am eating the right things for my body

Day 41

I have been added to "The Shreddersphere". I am so honored. Don't know what I'm talking about? Check out this site: RTP-Blog Adam Waters This guy has had a really fantastic transformation. There are several of us that are blogging along with him amd sharing our transformations with the world. He was/is in fact the inspiration for me to start my own blog. I have also listed fellow bloggers on my side bar. Check out their transformations and stories. All are motivators.

I forgot to bring my January photo to download! DUH...will do tomorrow. You will be amazed at what I've done in 4 months. I can really see the changes! Can't wait for the next 90 days.

I am wrapping up my first experience with Metabolic Surge. I have accomplished a lot in the last 7 weeks. I have learned that I'm not a sissy girl after all! LOL!! I can lift weights, do HIIT cardio, and I am eating better than ever, even with an occassional mishap. Exercise has become a way of life for me.

When I look back to 2005, I see a person that looked and felt like crap! I still don't look great, but a whole lot better than then! I learned about eating 5-6 small meals to keep my blood sugar up, which carbs were "good",and also that it was okay to eat fat--the right fats.

My body feels better. My hip and knee pain are gone. I am more limber, although I am still working hard in that area. I used to be a cheerleader..splits, jumps, and stretching were a daily routine. I could bend or split any which way! Now that I'm older, I have neglected my stretching--a thing I always took for granted. I figured I'd always be limber. Nope!

I was invited to lunch today: I always have trouble with restaurants. I had chicken and rice soup, a breadstick, and a glass of water. I was full--still am! Proud that I didn't go for the burger and fries--although they were calling my name!

Todays' Affirmations
I am a lean mean fatburning machine
I like myself the way I am
I drink 8 glasses of water every day

Day 40

Okay...you all know that I had a miserable week last week. I am now taking my "spanking". My scale weight is up, but my bodyfat % is down...I can't believe that it was down, after the junk I ate! I must have done enough RIGHT last week to cancel out the bad. I see in my pics that not much progress is showing. I found my original start pic from January 2nd, 2008. As soon as I can, I will post that, you will see a HUGE difference. It made my day to see the change.

I am back on my eating plan and I will be starting P90X on Monday. I got the DVD's yesterday. I watched a few of them and did one of the workouts. I am SORE today! This is a really extreme workout! I did the fit test and passed the minimums on all exercises. I knew I was ready to move up to a harder program, but I don't know!!! This is pretty tough. I spent all day yesterday reading, watching, planning. I am ready--my coach Jeff says I am ready. If it wasn't for him, I would never have attempted this! I never had anyone tell me I could do something like this. I am excited and can't wait until Monday. This will be a new chapter in my fitness book, and I want you to "read" along with me!

here are my measurements:
Bust: 43.75 same
Waist: 37 same
Hips: 44 up 1/4"
Abdomen: 42 same
Thighs 23 down 1/2"
Body Fat: 36.9 down 1%

today's affirmations:

1. I am a beautiful woman (handsome man!)
2. My body is releasing fat every day
3. I am a size 6, I have always been a size 6

Tosca Reno--my favorite fit over 40 woman!

I bought a fabulous book almost two years ago, called The Eat Clean Diet, by Tosca Reno. Tosca is a contributor to Oxygen Magazine, which I also avidly read each month! She is one of my favorite over 40 fit women. She recently released The Eat Clean Workout Book. I bought that one too! LOL. Can't get enough of my Tosca! Guess what?! She has a cookbook out, too! yep...bought that one also. :) What can I say??? I have given you a link to her Eat Clean Grocery List. It is really great. If you are wondering what to eat, just look at the list and shop!

Eat Clean Diet Grocery List

Day 36

Well...I am winding up the week feeling like crap. I have eaten junk just about everyday this week! I had pizza for dinner and 3 cookies yesterday. The good news is...all the junk is out of the office. I threw what was left in the trash. I went home and did the same to my kitchen. Another thing that contributed to this week of crap, was the fact that I did NOT cook ahead, I did NOT follow my plan. I completely fell off the wagon! I think I have climbed back on and I'm hanging on for dear life!

I pulled out my Turbo Jam DVD's this morning. I did "Fat Blaster". If you know anything about TJ...The Turbo's are high paced intervals placed within the regular workout. This DVD is nothing BUT Turbos! It's fast, it's hard, and it's fun! If you haven't already checked out Turbo Jam, you need to! Chalene Johnson is fabulous.

I feel pretty good today, and back in charge!

Here's Today's Affirmations:

I am a strong woman (man)
I can do anything
My body is releasing fat every day

Okay...your turn! Leave me affirmations/goals in my comments. Come on...it only takes a minute! :)

This is a great quiz. Find out what your body type is.

I did it and it was right on.

Day 35

So what do you think of this pic??

I have been doing so well for the last month. I have had 3 really hard days. Not sure what my problem is. I have not been eating right. I do my exercise...no problem there. I just can't quit eating junk--It's not like I eat it all day long. Just a cookie here and a chip there. I had 2 cookies yesterday and 2 today. Tuesday, I had a cookie and a brownie. See...not huge quantities of junk, just a couple of things. It makes me crazy! I need to get a grip!

I had a fabulous lunch--a baked potato with 1/2 cup cottage cheese on top with salsa. Love it! My favorite lunch.

I did my muscle rounds this morning--legs. I'm in the high carb phase, of which I've messed up for 2 days. Oh well...move along. I can be too hard on myself, and I know that I will be disappointed on Monday with my weigh in.

Today's Affirmations:
I have confidence in myself
I choose to exercise regularly
I can lose weight

Day 34

Oh Happy Day!!!! I am wearing my nice size 14 jeans today!! woohoo!!! The feeling is great! I have a pair of 12's hanging in my bathroom waiting for the day they will fit! I am also getting excited to take that pic of me in my red dress that I promised on May 1st! It's getting closer!

It is so much fun to hit your goals. It really is an amazing feeling. the problem with goals is that you actually have to SET them! Take a minute right now and write down the things that are important to you. Make them SPECIFIC...like this for example: I will wear a size 6 dress by December 31, 2008. Write them in your planner, or blog, or blackberry--whatever keeps you on track. I like to post them on my fridge. That way every time I go to grab something I can see the things are the most important to me! Try it, it works.

I have lost 4% BF in the last month. I am pretty happy with that. I am in my last week of Metabolic Surge. Then I will do a recovery week and go into Power 90X by Beachbody.com. This is another really fabulous program. It is pretty intense and I hope I can do it. I know that I will have to pace myself and not try to do every exercise to the max right off the bat. I have a problem with that--if I can't do something right the first time, well...then forget it. I'm working on that LOl!!

Today's Affirmations:
My body is changing every day
My body is releasing fat every day
I am happy

Day 33

I just got off the phone with the gas company. Fighting about my bill. These are the most inflexible people I have ever dealt with. I am fighting mad right now!! They seem to forget that although we NEED their service...WE are in fact the customer. GRRRRRR........

I ate crap for breakfast this morning--a chocolate chip cookie and a brownie. DAMN!!! Well...I'm not going to let it ruin my whole day. I am going to stick with the plan for the rest of the day.

Let's not get into that all or nothing mindset. Women seem to have a real problem with that--at least I have. That was a great lesson I learned--don't throw the baby out with the bath water. So you messed up..so what. Just keep going. It's just one backward step.

I'm here to tell you....get a move on. Take that first step if you haven't already. If you're in the middle of your journey, keep stepping--don't stop!

if you were here with me I'd give you a hug. :)

Today's Affirmations
I am moving toward my goals every day
I am eating right for my body
I love myself

Make sure you post your affirmations or goals today in my comment section.

Look what I found!

I'm at home goofing off today. I was going thru some pics, and look what I found! Me! I'm 16 in this pic and was at Cheer Camp in Flagstaff, AZ--1974. I was a cheerleader all thru highschool. I think I weighed about 125. I had a 25 in. waist and 34 in. hips. I pretty much looked like this until I was 30. That's when the explosion happened! My body went Blam! Pregnancy does such crappy things to women's bodies.

Day 32--Another Monday

It's measurement day! My body fat is down!! I can't see too many changes, but my side photos definitely look a lot better! Look at my butt! It's higher and nicely shaped, my midsection seems to be flatter. My arms are thinning out. So is my face. My BF% is down from 41.9 to 37.9. Kinda slow....but I'm on a downward roll! I have read that you can expect to lose from .5% to 1% BF per week. I am inline with that. I'm happy with progress so far. I've been heavy for 19 years, it's gonna take some time to get rid of all this fat! I can't wait to see what I'll look like in 6 months! I hope you hang around to watch me get there!

Measurements:
Bust: 43.75
waist: 37 STILL...
Hips: 43.75
abdomen: 42
Thighs: 23.5
Calf: 15

Not much change in the measurements, but as long as BF is going down, I'm good.

Today's affirmations:

I am happy with myself
I am exercising according to my plan
I have always had a fast metabolism
I am a size 6!

Day 31

I was thinking this morning about behavior--mine, specifically. I have made a LOT of changes in the last 3 years. My nutrition is better, I work out just about everyday, and I am drinking my water. It has been a hard long road to get where I am today.

Nineteen years ago, I was pregnant with my last child David--the Marine! He was born January '89. 1988 was a horrible and very trying year for me. I did not expect to get pregnant. My husband and I had separated earlier in the year, and over a reconciliation weekend, I got PG. I was elated! I loved the whole pregnancy thing! I had 3 other kids at the time--Leighsa, RJ, and Jacob. They ranged in age from 12-5. They were excited about having a baby brother/sister.

As the year wore on, I was getting more and more excited. We had just moved into a new home, so I was busy nesting. That was in August '88. Pretty soon Christmas rolled around...Christmas Eve I received a bomb from my husband--"I'm leaving you, and she'll be here to pick me up in a minute". WHOA!!! Holy crap! So he left me and the kids. I had to explain to them why Daddy wasn't there on Christmas morning. He didn't show up again until 3 days after Christmas. This started me on a downward spiral. By the time David was born, I was 235 lbs. with gestational diabetes. It pretty much sucked.

After David was born, I lost a few lbs., but not anywhere near enough! A few months later, our house was foreclosed upon--My husband quit paying any of our bills, and I had no job, but 4 beautiful kids. I found a job, and a new place to live. I worked hard, and at that time life had no joy.

I took the kids and I moved up north to the Prescott area, where I am today. I found a great job, and things looked better. I had nothing but struggles to lose weight. It just wasn't coming off. I was down to 198 by that time.

I have been up and down for the last 18 years. The baby weight is still with me. So....I decided that this year it was coming OFF!!! My problem I have decided, is that I have not been able to stick with anything long enough to get REAL results. I found the Metabolic Surge program, and so far I'm doing well with it. I have lost about 4% BF and a few inches. I feel stronger, my hip and knee joints don't hurt either. I made a deal with myself that I would finish this Level One program--to the very END!! So far so good. I have only about 9 days left.

I actually have a plan--it's all laid out in my planner. I know what I am doing everyday. I know what I'm eating every day. This has made a huge difference to me. Nothing is left to chance. I have not been perfect during this program. I missed one workout, I messed up another one--by not doing all the exercises--I had 3 days of not eating right. BUT...I am on a roll. I am not letting that get to me. I have learned to pick up where I left off and not let a little mishap throw me off my whole plan.

I'm getting older and it's getting harder and harder to get this fat off. My mom used to tell me when I was in my 30's, "Get it off now, because when you get my age, it won't happen". Well, Mom....this is for you--It WILL happen, because I'm gonna MAKE it happen! I refuse to be fat AND fifty!

Today's Affirmations:

1. I drink 8 glasses of water every day
2. I am the perfect weight for me
3. I make positive healthy choices for me

Day 30!

I usually post pictures of beautiful bodies for motivation...but how about this one? If you don't get off your a$$ NOW...this is what you will look like. This picture motivates me more than any other, how 'bout you?

My blog is now officially one month old! I have enjoyed blogging. I have met some really great and fun people. If you are one of my friends, I thank you so much for supporting me! If you're not one of my friends, "Why aren't you?" LOL!!

I had a REALLY bad day yesterday! I messed up my workout, I ate lunch with a resident at the subdivision I work at--and I'll tell you--we did not have a "healthy" lunch, THEN...to top it off...I had a burrito for dinner. I am paying for it this morning, because my body is rejecting all the fat and carbs I had yesterday. Funny how your body will scream at you when you aren't eating right.

Today is a rest day--I am definitely enjoying that! I am sticking strictly to my eating plan today.

My favorite British Bloggers are on a little holiday for a few days. I will miss them...no comic relief! If you haven't seen their blog you need to. They have the best sense of humor and their love of life shines thru! Visit Roy and Hazel

Here's a little video I thought was interesting on obesity--

Day 29

I thought I would share a recipe today. It is a protein pancake that I love! Of course, since there is prot. powder and eggs in it, it isn't real fluffy like a real pancake. Anyhow...I like it and it's portable!

Mix together:
1 scoop of chocolate protein powder
3 egg whites
1 egg
Stevia to taste
cinnamon to taste

After all this is blended, turn on your pan. Make sure you spray it with Pam, or something like that. These will stick if you don't. Let your pan warm up. Then at the last minute add 1/2 c of frozen blueberries. Stir quickly and pour onto the warm pan. Smoosh down into pancake form. Cover, lower flame to medium, and cook for 9 min. Flip--this is harder said than done--this is a big and heavy pancake. Mine always breaks! After flipped, just turn off pan and let sit for a minute or two.

These are quick and easy and have a fabulous amount of protein in them--to make you strong and lean!

So...an update on the Diet Coke war...I had ONE last night on my drive home. I only drank 1/2 of it. It just really didn't want it. I guess all those affirmations I've been doing are working! I know it's a silly thing, but it is eally hard for me to quit. There's nothing in them that are addictive--because I only drink the no caffeine diet coke. I guess maybe it's the aspartame that makes you feel like you "need" it!

I did my workout this morning. I'm chugging along doing my thing. I'm running out of energy and look at my program book--I'm DONE!! Yay!! I go upstairs and review my program--I always make notes of how much weight and reps I've done. I realize I completely left out one whole section of my quads! I didn't have my glasses on and skipped over two sets of leg extensions! DUH... No wonder it seemed like I was done so fast!

So tell me, are you doing your "thing". What is your thing? Leave me a note and tell me what you are currently doing to make your body better. I would love to hear.

Transformation Affirmation for Today:
1. I eat all the right foods for the body I desire
2. I now have all the energy I need
3. My body is now trained to burn fat and increase muscle

Side by side March 23, and April 10

Just thought it would be interesting to see the difference side by side.

Day 28

I have two weeks left of this Level one program, I'm currently on. I will then take a recovery week and start Power 90X. I should be ready by May 1st. My coach bazookaJeff and I feel that this is something that I can definitely do. I have shied away from it, because I didn't feel that I was "fit" enough. Well after doing this Metabolic Surge program, I know I can do it. I have carried my "accountability" one step further--I have signed up to be a Team Beachbody Coach. While I am working on my own physique, I can coach others. Hopefully I will be an inspiration to someone else.

Beachbody has a fabulous website: Go here! you can join the Million Dollar Body Club for free! This will allow you to work out in WOWY! (work out with you) There are so many fabulous workouts to choose from. I have Turbo Jam. Hip Hob Abs, P90, and Slim in Six. My favorites are TJ and HHA. The message boards are the most active that I have ever participated in! There is a thread for each program. You have GOT to check it out!

I made it thru yesterday without any diet coke. It was hard. Today is even harder. I am so sick of water, I can't hardly stand it. I feel like a fish! I know, I know...it's so good for me! Yeah, but it's BORING!! I keep telling myself, "I no longer feel the need to drink diek coke". I don't drink tea, I don't know what else that I can sub for part of this water. I must have had at least 8 bottles of water yesterday--that's about 135 oz. of water. WELL over the 8 glasses that are usually recommended. I've had 70 oz's already and it's only 11:30 am. I'm a little pisser, too! I've been to the bathroom at least 4 times since 10:00! I know it will get easier. Probably after tomorrow! The first 3 days are usually the hardest!...

I think I see a little change in my pics. Not a lot, but if you look REAL hard you can see it in my arms, tummy, and hips. Don't look TOO hard! LOL!!!

Affirmations for today:
1. I no longer feel the need to drink Diet Coke
2. I no longer feel the need to drink Diet Coke
3. I no longer feel the need to drink Diet Coke

So there!

Water

I was visiting a few friends blogs and came across Aree's water article. This is exactly what I was talking about in today's post. Water and weightloss go hand in hand. I thought it was funny that she posted this when I needed to hear it so strongly today! Okay...go visit Aree now! Aree's Blog

Day 27

This is Lauren Beckham, a fitness competitor. The photo is dated 2007. Just a little motivation for you and me!

I am a Diet Coke junkie. I have been drinking the stuff since about 1982. I have a six pack a day habit--or more, depending on the day. About 4 years ago, I gave up Diet Coke--the caffeine was killer. I drank 6-10 cans a day of this lethal stuff. So one day, I just quit. It was really hard. I had headaches from hell for about 3 days. THEN...I foud caffeine free Diet Coke. I loved having something cold and fizzy to drink. Water was/is just not my favorite. I have been drinking this stuff now, feeling pretty good about myself for not having caffeine. I don't drink coffee, either--never have.

I have read all the articles, heard all the reports about aspartame. I understand that our bodies really can't tell the difference between a sweetener and real sugar. I realize that this may be why I have had such a hard time losing weight. BUT...I have never really had a GOOD reason to quit.

Monday night my hubbie came home with a six pack for me as usual. I was sitting on the couch watching TV with him, and out of nowhere I told him that I did not want him to buy me any more Diet Coke. He looked at me like I had just told him the sky was falling! I said, "REALLY Mike. Please don't buy anymore. I just feel it is time to quit. When this sixpack is gone, I'm done." Well....the sixpack is gone--it was gone yesterday. No more Diet Coke for me--decaf or otherwise.

I couldn't wait to come in and tell you of my new challenge! This is going to be a tough one for me. I will really need encouragement. This is a 26 year old habit, but it needs to die!!

I have a bottle of water on my desk so I will have something to sip on. Please don't tell me to put lemons in it. That is just too gross! I can't stand lemon, unless it's on fish. There must be other ways to make water more palatable. I thought I would use a little Crystal Lite, but it has aspartame in it also. This stuff is in everything! Even in those fitness waters! So....it's cold turkey or should I say, cold water for me!

Cheer me on!!

Today's affirmations:
1. I am drinking enough water for MY body
2. I no longer feel the need to drink Diet Coke, (insert your vice here)
3. I am eating according to my plan

Day 26

Hi everyone out there! Are you having a great day? I am! I had a job interview for my "dream" job! Won't find out anything until next week. I know I will make it into the top two. I WILL get this job--for the good of all involved! How's that for positive thinking?

Look at this picture....Isn't she fabulous? Her name is Rachael Cosgrove. Among other things, she is the wife of Alwyn Cosgrove--trainer genius. I think she has the most perfect femininely muscular body there is. A great role model.

I did my workout today. Supersets then sub-maximal intervals. I'm a little sore from Saturday's workout--quads/hams.

Today I get a cheat meal! Yay! I'm having lasagne and french bread with salad. Maybe a little bit of chocolate! I might even have some wine. Whoa...now I'm really getting daring!

Tomorrow I'm going to tell you about a little competition a fellow blogger and I came up with. Speaking of competitions/challenges--are you doing your affirmations? I know Roy and Hazel are. So is Jamie! Be sure to leave your goals, comments, and affirmations in my comments. I really want to hear them. So does everyone else. You never know who you might inspire! Get to it!

Today's affirmations:
1. I eat all the right foods for the body I desire
2. With every deep breath I take, my boedy is burning fat
3. I can lose weight

Day 25

Okay, it's pic and measurement day. I can tell you right now that it is a little disappointing. I know that I have lost body fat. I am happy about that! BUT...you can't really see any changes, and the measurements aren't going down. Well they are... Minutely, little by little. I'm just trying really hard to stick with this program and not bail on it. I have seen it work, I know it works. Nick (creator of Metabolic Surge) assures me that things are working--behind the scenes. We have internal fat stores that need to be depleted THEN the body will work on the "real" fat--the fat we see. He says that it may take one complete round of the program before I see real changes. Okay. That's cool. I am only 4 weeks away from completing this first Level. So onward and upward! Marching towards fat loss! Yee-ha! It's time to Cowgirl up!

Measurements:
Bust: 43
Waist: 37
Hips: 44
Lower abdomen: 42
Thighs: 23
Weight: 190 back up from Weds. This IS high carb week so I know this isn't fat gain
Body fat: 38.3 down from 41.7 (beginning) Woohoo! NOT BAD!

Affirmations for today:
I am eating only healthy foods that are good for my body
I have always been lean and muscular
I am burning fat every day

Day 24

Today started as a crappy day. I woke up at 6:30 so tired that I just couldn't get up! Then I woke up at 7:05...CRAP! I need to workout! Well..even that didn't get me up. I slept in until 7:35, then jumped out of bed into the shower...My hubbie yelled out to me, "Aren't you going to work out?" Me: NO! I overslept and I have got to get ready for work!" So I'm buzzing around doing hair and makeup, pickup my watch and see that it says 7:00. WHAT???!!!! I look at Mike's clock and it also says 7:00--MY CLOCK READS 8:00. WELL F-ING CRAPOLA. WTF?? Anyway...my clock is one of those that sets itself...so today would have been the day we normally set our clocks forward, but since we did daylight savings time earlier this year--my clock is off. So twice a year, even though Arizona doesn't observe DST, I have to reset the damn clock. Needless to say, NO freakin' wonder I was so tired--it was only 5:30 am! DUH....

So...I have to work out tonite when I get home. I hate working out in the evening. I don't have that much time to spend with Mikey (hubbie) so every minute counts.

Hope you all have a fabulous Sunday. Mine HAS gotten better as the day goes on!

Affirmations for today:

1. The more energy I use, the more energy I have.
2. I am growing more attractive every day!
3. I look better in my clothes.

Remember to post your goals/affirmations! I want to see them!
Tomorrow is measurement and weigh day!

Rocky Montage

I have always been a Rocky fan. I know, I know...they're a tad on the cheesy side. But I tell ya...the music, the fights, the courage, the determination of this one man is so inspiring that it makes my heart just "burst" with emotion. The movies are reminders of what greatness the human spirit can accomplish. They chronicle the best of our "American" spirit. I just love this particular song on the Rocky soundtrack. It stirs my spirit. Hope it does the same for you. Enjoy!

What's YOUR excuse?

Day 23

Pic of my boys! David and Jacob.
I am so happy that you are leaving your comments! Thank you so much! This will help all of us! If you are new...I have a challenge going for all of April...Leave your affirmations or goals in a comment on my blog. I think this will be a great way to encourage each other!

I found an absolutely fabulous website yesterday! It is "Underground Body Building Tips" They have a free site that has so much info on it, that is REALLY good stuff. You can actually print off a month's worth of FREE menus in just about any caloric range you desire. There are video's of exercises, articles, just so much! Check it out and sign up! It's FREE people, FREE!!!

Yesterday was my all fruit day! I did great all day until I got home. I ate a handful of potato chips. Don't know WHY I did that. I don't even eat potato chips. I can have an open bag in the house (usually it is for my hubbie's lunches) for weeks and NEVER feel tempted. My thing is chocolate. If it's in the house, it's gone. No matter what the quantity is...a bag of kisses, or just one little piece--it's gone! What is your "trigger" food? Leave me a comment....

Today is High Carb. I had egg whites, broccoli, spinach, oatmeal, and berries this morning. It was Yummy. I am actually eating right now as I blog, LOL! I am munching on 1/2 c of non fat plain yog, 1 cup of berries, and 1/3 c oatmeal (uncooked) all mixed up together. It is REALLY good! I add a little stevia to sweeten it up a bit.

I did my workout this morning--Muscle Rounds--quads, hams, calves. I'm getting good at this weightlifting thing! Muscle rounds are 4 sets of 6 reps w/a weight you can lift for 10 reps. You do however as many rounds as prescribed for the day/week. I did 3 rounds. An hour later, when I was leaving the house for work--I have to go down 21 steps from my front door to my truck. My legs just didn't want to go. I was afraid I couldn't go down the steps. My legs were shaking so bad. It was actually really funny. I made it down the steps grateful that I could sit down in the truck! They still feel wobbly 5 hours later!


Okay...here are my affirmations for today:
1. My positive thoughts are now creating the body I desire
2. I am a lean, mean, fat-burning machine! Yeah!!
3. I burn off more calories than I consume

What are yours?

Affirmation Challenge

Don't forget...I asked everyone to throw out their affirmations in my comment section. I see I have a couple here, but I know there are more of you out there reading this! Please leave a comment--if you don't want to do affirmations, leave your goals. I would love to hear from/about you! I hope you have a happy healthy day!

Day 22

Watch your thoughts, for they become words
Watch your words, for they become actions
Watch your actions, for they become habits
Watch your habits, for they become character
Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny....Unknown

Woohoo! I am down 2 lbs this morning. I know that the scale is not a good indicator of what is really going on with my body....I still use it as a reference point. I will still be measuring, taking body fat%, and trying on a pair of pants that are too tight. That is the true measure of whether or not your program is working!

I have a pair of jeans that I LOVE! I keep them hanging up in my bathroom, so I can see them everyday. It's a great motivator. I can get them on, but I wouldn't wear them in public! LOL!! I also have my beautiful red dress. I can't wait to try it on, on May 1st, and see how it looks.

Today is a rest day and all fruit day. Tomorrow I will be back on the High Carb Rotation for the next 5 days. Exercise will be the Muscle Rounds and Superset training along with HIIT. It will be a tough week, but will signal end of round 2.

Yesterday afternoon I did a little research on affirmations and law of attraction. These are both areas that I really don't know much about. It kinda seems a little weird to me, but I'm gonna try it. They say you have to do this for 30 days to have it become a habit and to re-train your mind. I wrote about 10 affirmations that I can use. I wrote them in my day planner so I can read them everyday. I also speak them out loud while I am driving. In a past post I had told you that I also keep pictures of bodies cut out of magazines in my planner. I try to pick body types that look closely like mine would look.

Another thing that I did, was to make a "vision board". I have one of these down in my workout room--I made it about a year ago. It's huge! Done on poster board and magazine cutouts of figures and words. This one I made yesterday is small--so I can keep it in my planner and look at it everyday. It has a fabulous body on it, along with some fresh fruit and veggies. I also typed my affirmations on it--about 6 of them.

I signed up on Anne Marie Evers website--She's called The Affirmation Doctor-- anyway...she has a newsletter and a daily affirmation she sends out. Another website that I liked was www.trueaffirmations.com They have a free Ebook you can sign up for. Even though this stuff seems a little weird and awkward to me, I am going to try really wrapping my mind around this technique. What could it hurt?......nothing. :)

Affirmations for today:
1. My body has always burned fat quickly and efficiently
2. I am a high acheiver
3. I am fit, healthy, and attractive

Weight today: 188

This made my heart swell and tears roll....

Day 21--small changes

I SWEAR....the more I look at this pic, the more I am SURE that my belly is getting bigger!!!

I have noticed some small changes. My lower abdomen is definitely smaller--you know, the "apron" area--ring a bell?? I took a measurement of it this morning so I can add it to my stats. I wish I had measured it 4 weeks ago! Better late than never! My thighs are down and my arms & ankles are smaller! I see it in my face also. Isn't it funny that the places that change first are the places we could care less about! LOL!!

I am on an all protein day today. I did my assigned cardio intervals this morning, I really like those! Gets my blood flowing and I really feel great afterwards!

I had a great phone conversation yesterday with Heather Picken. Heather was a figure competitor for several years. She has some great websites and programs. She was telling me about the importance of getting your "head together". Where the head goes the body follows. I believe, as does Heather, that all the cardio, weight training, and nutrition in the world won't help unless you actually have your "mind" wrapped around the project! I am learning about affirmations, visualization, and self talk. Heather says that we need to dig deep to figure out what our "dominant" thoughts are telling us. Most of the time this thought is something like, "I am so fat, I will never lose weight". And so we don't. We need to learn to change our thinking and thought process. How can we expect our body to change, if our brain keeps telling it, it can't? As per Heather's book, I am going to spend time each day writing goals and affirmations. I will change my self talk. I will be posting my affirmations each day, right here on my blog. You should do the same! Leave your affirmations here in my comments! How fun would that be?! If you would like to find out more about Heather's program click here

There are also plenty of websites and books on the subject. My favorite is The Secret. You can get it on Amazon for about 8 bucks. The subject matter of this book is nothing new, but I believe that God wants us to have abundance in our lives. If you throw it out there to the Universe, then it WILL come back to you. You just have to know how to do it the right way!

Today's Affirmations:

I am a size 6.
My metabolism has always been fast!
I am fit and healthy


Weight today: 190

Something New

I'm going to be adding daily affirmations to my posts. Since I've already posted for today....here they are:

I am a size 6.
I am in control of what I put into my body.
I am doing it.
I am allowing my body to change.

I just realized...

I am one week shy of being 2/3 of the way thru my level one program! Then I move on to the regular program for another 6-7 weeks. I need to get my hubbie to take some decent pics of me this weekend--Sunday would be good. I'm sorry...but the ones I've been taking are a little dark and unfocused. Probably because I can't use the flash when shooting into a mirror. Plus it's usually dark in the morning when I take them.

Getting excited to finish up level one.

Day 20

"While the nature of your dreams needs to inspire, you must also recognize the fact that it takes only small steps to create amazing changes. The dream will lead the way, but it won't come in one giant leap. Small steps, carried out each day, will bring you to the destinations you seek." ???

This such great advice. I need to keep this close to my heart and remember these words when I am feeling down. Like now. I am taking the steps everyday...at the end of this year I will have arrived at my destination. How will I do this?? Consistency and persistance. These are the only two things that matter.

I have a lot of things going against me: I'm 50, menopausal, short--endo-meso body type with emphasis on ENDO! BUT...I have a lot of things going for me: The WANT-to, I can be be pretty tenacious when I'm after something I truly want. I also have plenty of time in the mornings to do my workouts--again with the consistency and persistance.

Here are two more crappy pics of me. This morning when I weighed in, I can see that I am just teetering on moving down one more pound--FINALLY! I am NOT a patient person, I expect that if I am doing the work, and doing the eating--I will lose fat. This is like pulling teeth! I know...this kinda flies in the face of what I just said. Consistency and Persistance are one thing, but PATIENCE is the hardest to master. I have a quick Irish temper and tend to be quick to judge and react. I will stick to it and finish Level One. Then I will reasess where I'm at--I have the option to follow the Metabolic Surge Regular Program or do something else. We'll see. Onward and upward!

Weight today: 190 (still)

Day19--April Fool's Day!

I really hate loading these pics. All the more reason to stick to my program. I want to have the satisfaction of knowing that I have done something HUGE! Something that not everyone can/will do. Losing weight is hard and it takes time. I want to be able to take a pic of me in my red dress on May 1, and have it look nice. That's my first goal. THEN I want to hit 175lbs. THEN...150. I know I can do this! I just have to stay focused on my goals.

One of the things I have done to keep my goals in front of me is keeping this blog--it's public and keeps me accountable. The embarassment of having these horrible pics out there for the whole world to see makes me want to PROVE that I can do this. It brings out my competitive nature. A few other things....I cut out pics of bodies that I like out of magazines. I keep them in my day planner. I also write my workouts in my planner. Nothing in detail--that's what this blog is for. I just "schedule" myself in for a workout! I also visit other women's (and a few men's) blogs. These women are so inspirational. I read about women who have 200+ lbs to lose. My piddly little 50-60 lbs is nothing compared to what they are doing. I read Fitness Cure by Maria Kang every day. This keeps my goals right out in front of me--all day long. Find what works for you, and do it!

Today was the first day of Lactic Acid Training. Also a low carb day. It was pretty tough. I think I am getting the hang of this program. It's tough, but I really like it! It's the first program that I have done that I know I can stick with.

After talking with Nick about my "lack of progress" I feel a whole lot better. I'm just rushing things. I'm just excited and anxious to finally get this fat off. I want it NOW!!! I know you KNOW what I'm talking about!