Doc's Report

I had my annual appointment with my primary care physician yesterday.  I had gone in two weeks ago for my fasting blood draw and was anxious to hear what she had to say.  And, you know me, I had her write down last year's numbers and this year's numbers before we started that part of our fabulous conversation.

The blood work report:

Total cholesterol (which was fine) is down 56.

Triglcerides (which were scary high and I promised they would go down because she wanted to put me on meds) went down 142!

HDL (good cholesterol) is up 8 (needs to go up a little more, still...hello, salmon! and I'll keep on with the flax and chia - which I already love!).

LDL (bad cholesterol - which was fine) went down 26.

Gotta ♥ this!

I really was a little worried that I'd be the one person that could lose 80 pounds in a year and go to the doc and be told it was time for medication.  Nope.  Not a chance!

Thank you, Take Shape For Life & Medifast!!!

  The "I'm a Rockstar" was waiting for me at the staff breakfast this morning with the "Amazing!" card.  What a great reflection of how AMAZING I feel!

An A-Ha! Moment

I posted this earlier tonight in an online forum on the Medifast site. 

For about 5 seconds I felt I was about to be in a situation that moved me backwards - but I've got to learn - just like on this journey - that I can't always have what I want NOW. I have to work through the process, learn some lessons, put in the hard work.

Holy crap...there was an epiphany! I just wrote my way right through this.   

Can't even delete it because I will need to come back to this.

That's right I need to come back to this.  It is true for every avenue of life.  I want things and I want them NOW.  Anyone else feel the same about things?

And, as much as I may try to get everything I want at the exact time I want it, sometimes it just is not possible.  Maybe it is impossible.  Maybe it's not a good idea.  Maybe it is one of those things that you just should not rush.

Some things take time.  Many things require hard work.  Many things include lessons to be learned.  Life is a process.

Well, I'll be!

I've spent the past year working on getting myself healthy - inside and out.  Mentally, physically and emotionally.  It's been hard work.  I've fallen a few times.  And I've picked myself up, dusted myself off and continued on my journey one more time than I've fallen.  And, if I fall again, I'll pick myself up again.  So it has been going on this journey to a healthier life.

And, so it goes for many other things.

Sure, when I decided that I was going to finish my Reading Teacher license, I wished it could have already been done.  But, I'm going through the process and now, it's almost done.  Just my practicum left and it's over.  

This is so true for many things in our lives.  Maybe it's school, learning something new, picking up a new activity, losing weight, changing careers, moving, a relationship...  Whatever it is, if it's worth doing, it's worth doing well.  And if it's worth doing well, there are going to be things that need to be done along the way to keep the train rolling towards the finish line.

So, I'm in.  Taking the journey.  Enjoying the ride.  Putting in the work.  Learning the lessons.

Go get 'em, tigers!

 

So, It Was Just About a year Ago...

Today the family is heading to Serbian Fest.  This is an annual family tradition and it completely centers around food and catching up with family.  And there is an abundance of food to be had.  Chicken and lamb, salads, sausages, tortes, pastries, and many other tasty Serbian dishes.  It's the very same festival I was at last year when I had a life-changing conversation with my dad's cousin about Medifast.

It was one of those moments where everything snapped into place like finding the last piece of the puzzle.  I was in the midst of a major life change and was ready to make things happen.  My cousin had been on the plan for a while and was at or close to her goal.  I'd never asked about the program she was doing, but knew the name and saw what could happen.  Finally, I was in the mental place where I could HEAR what would be said - so I ASKED the question.

I went straight home and placed my first order. My life has not been the same since that day.

Friday night I completed The Color Run, my 8th 5k run event of the past year (started those in November).   Last weekend I completed a 5k mud run - The Dirty Girl...yeah, you know it!  Yesterday I registered for The Glo Run that's in town in 4 weeks.  I also registered for next year's Dirty Girl!  I've got both of my bikes up and running and they are making daily trips out and about.  I was up early this morning, so hopped on the bike at 5:30 am for a little 90 minute spin to the lake, along the lake, and back through town.

A year ago, I was barely walking.  I was bloated and puffy and heavy.  I didn't just look it - I felt it.  A year ago today I was out with friends for a night of movie and dinner and came home to incredibly swollen feet and ankles.  I was scared.  I didn't know what was happening to my body.  I didn't know if I'd re-injured my foot or if something serious was happening.  Two days later I placed my first order.  I haven't looked back since.

Yesterday morning, my cousin Hunter (he's 8) looked at me and said, "You used to be a puffy balloon. Now you're skinny!" Oh, children! I love that boy!!!

No More Stay-Puff Marshmallow Girl

Just under a year ago I began a journey.  I was freshly separated and on a path to take back my life and my body.

Some time in October, I got my running groove back.  I ran a series of five 5k races over the cold, snowy winter months us Wisconsinites love so dearly.  I jumped into Lake Michigan on New Year's Day with all of the other Polar Bear Plungers.  I took a "Freedom Trip" to Austin, TX and ran and biked to my heart's content the week after my divorce was final.  I've returned to road biking recently.  I'm off to another change with a new teaching assignment this fall.  I returned to grad school and will be finishing my masters degree in May.  I have made countless friends through this program - friends that have supported me through my personal evolution and continue to cheer me on, while I do the same.  This past weekend, I had the opportunity to meet three of them live and in the flesh - what a great Friday and Saturday we had.  I am in a relationship where I feel valued, appreciated, treasured, and respected.

Life is good.

This morning, I ran the Dirty Girl Mud Run with a team of my former colleagues and other friends.  Many of these ladies I haven't seen in at least a year.  They have seen pictures and posts on facebook, but no face-to-face contact.  It was an amazing experience on so many levels.  Just awesome!
The before picture is from my cousin's wedding last May.  I thought I looked fabulous.  My mom received this picture from my cousin's wife a few months ago.  My mom pulled me aside, with tears in her eyes, to show it to me...to "show me how far I've come."  Of course, my mom is a mom and tells everyone she can how amazing I am and how great I have done over the past year.  Moms...they're the best!

The after picture is from before this morning's Dirty Girl Mud Run.  We were Team Tutu Dirty.  The Tutu is in a trash dumpster somewhere, the shoes were donated to a worthy cause, but the feeling in my heart - and the pain in my body from climbing, crawling, jumping, running, slithering - is with me.  The pain will go away in a day or two.  The feeling of accomplishment - that's one of those things that sticks with you for a good long while.

I have a bit to go before I reach my weight goal.  However, the goal I told my health coach when I started was to be able to run and bike and take part in the events that I love to participate in.  Friends, I'm there!

To all of you just starting out - you CAN do this!

To my friends that I have gathered into my arms along the way - I LOVE each and every one of you.  Thank you for your unconditional love and support.

Go get 'em, tigers!!!

Gratitude, Day 9

I can go on for a good long while about how I’m looking forward to this school year.  I get to work in a school with a focused and enthusiastic staff – I just can’t wait!  I am going to spend the year working with a first grade student every day after school on reading – that is going to be fabulous!  My journey to health and wellness is ongoing and on track!

Today, I’ll be spending the afternoon with my grad school colleagues as we spend the week training for our reading practicum.  I’m so excited for this!  The practicum is our final course(s) requirement in our program and we are on our way to doing better by our students.  How lucky we are.

30 Days of Gratitude, Day 9: 1. Education  2. Books  3. Music

Go get’em, tigers!

Me, 20 Years Later

I survived the reunion weekend, had a fabulous time with old classmates, rocked the dance floor for a little longer than my hair could handle and am looking forward to staying in touch with many of these friends.

Saturday morning the challenge was thrown out to change our facebook profile pictures to a picture from high school.  We ended up using our senior pictures.  This was a lot of fun – scrolling through the fb feed and seeing everyone as they were twenty years ago.

Before heading out on Saturday night, I snapped a picture of myself.  It wasn’t until this morning that I looked at the picture.  It is far too similar to my senior picture.  My hair even looks the same!  Incredible!

Having spent a few minutes playing with the pictures to create a side-by-side comparison shot, I had some time to reflect on the me of 1992 and the me of today.

In 1992, I didn’t know where I was going or who I was.  I was 17.  I knew where I was going to college and what I would major in – but that was just about it.  I was passionate about a lot of things, but was just learning how to express that and take a stand.

Today, I know who I am.  I know what I value.  I know where I am going – or at least have a plan…I’m always open to new options.  I am confident in who I am, what I believe, what I do.  I can express myself clearly and am not afraid to stand up for myself.  I go after what I want.  I take care of the people I love and stand up for them.  I try to make each day better than the one before – and to make myself better than I was the day before.  I focus on gratitude and being positive and don’t let other people’s choices pull me off track.  I work hard to be great at what I do and help others do the same.  I am evolving and am enjoying the journey.

The journey is an amazing thing.

Go get ‘em, tigers!

Gratitude, Day 8

Last night was the second event of reunion weekend and it did not disappoint.  Class of ’92, we are one fabulous and good looking pack of Tigers!

We talked, enjoyed a great dinner, danced, indulged in conversations catching ourselves up, danced some more, and lingered around for more conversation.  Those hours flew by with promises to keep in touch and see each other more often.  Surely, this is what happens at reunions – but I hope it’s more than just the typical reunion chat.  It was so great to reconnect with many of my friends.  It would be a shame to go back to our passive facebook friendships. 

30 Days of Gratitude, Day 8: 1.  Spontaneous lunch & beach adventure dates.  2.  Catching up with all of the girls.  3.  Partying like it’s 1992 with the c/o ‘92.

Go get ‘em, Tigers!

Gratitude, Day 7 - Reunion Weekend

Last night was event number one of the reunion weekend.  We had a meet & greet reception at a fabulous brewery/bar on the river and a great time was had by all.  I quickly slipped in with my girls that I spent my high school career going to pavilion dances and school events with and the time flew right on by.  It is amazing how 20 years can seem like the blink of an eye.

We’ve all moved on with our lives, gone to school, moved around, been married, started our own families, worked a job or two or ten, and have created our adult network – and still spending time together made it feel like little time has passed.  With the age of facebook, email (something we didn’t have in high school), and the ease of communication with all of our “new” technology it has been easy to keep up with some – or many – aspects of each others’ lives.  Even if we haven’t seen someone for 20 years, being their facebook friend has given us some insight into where they are now and what they’ve been up to.  Wow, how the world is changing and whisking us right along with it!

Tonight is a dinner/dance event at a local hotel.  It’s a very cool spot and I’m looking forward to it being filled with Tiger Pride.

30 Days of Gratitude, Day 7: 1. Bridging the gap between old friends.  2. A fabulous gathering of ’92 Tigers.  3. The chance to do it all again tonight.

Go get ‘em, Tigers!

30 Days of Gratitude, Day 6

Well, it’s here.  Tonight begins my 20 year high school reunion.  I do not like social events with a lot of people.  I like things small and familiar and comfortable.  And sure, these are all people I know…who I haven’t seen most of for 20 years.  I’m not going to lie, there’s been some anxiety.  I just don’t like events. 

It’s funny, I can stand in front of a classroom of judgmental, smart-mouthed, distracted by technology adolescents all day and have the time of my life – but the idea of spending two nights with my former classmates makes my tummy twist.

As with everything else in the past year, I’m bursting through this self-built wall and dealing with it.  It would be easy to stay home and work on my homework, clean the closets or even spend the evening with the man.  That would be staying in the same place I am.  I’m stretching and growing and continuing to spread my wings every day.

So, tonight I will reunite with my fellow Tigers.  It will be fine.  And I’ll end up feeling better about tomorrow and enjoying the time with old friends.

Now, what will I wear?

30 Days of Gratitude, Day 6: 1. The opportunity to catch up with old friends.  2. Many packages at the door this morning.  3.  Stepping outside of my comfort zone.

Go get ‘em, tigers!

Gratitude, Day #5

It’s official.  I’m addicted to the mini donuts.  I love them.  They are easy to make.  They are cute.  They taste fabulous.  Why wouldn’t I love them?

For much of this weight loss journey, I was a fan of meals I could drink.  If I could put it in a cup and add a straw, it was good.  If I could throw it in the ninja with some ice, even better.  Now that I’ve had some time with meals with texture, that require chewing, I’m happy to have them back in my life. 

As I think ahead to what will be portable and easy for life back in the classroom, I’m thinking these little donut gems will be perfect.  I’m already guzzling a ton of water every day, why not give my tummy a little something more to work with.

I’ve also been experimenting with splitting my Lean & Green meal into two meals.  That’s been working out pretty well.  I may be doing that more often.

On the school front, there were lots of little victories yesterday.  I paid off my summer tuition.  I read the first part of the reading assignment for the class that starts Monday.  I found out that instead of teaching three different English classes, it may be only two.  That’s fantastic.  One less class to plan for.  Thank goodness!!!

I also had a little change in my schedule for today, which opens up time to get my reading done without racing through it.  My goal: to have it done before Friday night.  I’ve got a reunion to go to this weekend!

30 Days of Grateful, Day #5: 1. Cooler weather for a few days!  2. Last minute schedule changes that give me the time I was desperately looking for.  3. The coffee is already made!

Go get ‘em, tigers!

Gratitude, Day 4

Fall is in the air.  Back-to-school sales are on.  The children are starting to get on their parents’ last nerve.  Teachers are busy planning for another school year.

My back-to-school mail has been rolling in since the middle of July.  It started with the Welcome to the Reading Practicum email.  That one included a lengthy and costly book list and some reading assignments to be completed before we meet for our training next week.  Today, it was the Welcome Back to the Classroom letter with a schedule of regular meetings and the revised bell schedule.

Yes, with these things comes a certain amount of stress and anxiety.  I also get a sense of relief.  Everything is falling into place.  Ah…a schedule.  I need a schedule.  I need to know where I’m supposed to be and when.  Of course, I’m overwhelmed by it all.  It’s going to be a crazy year. 

So, before the school year starts, I’m continuing my preparations – buckling my seatbelt for the wild and crazy ride. 

30 Days of Gratitude, Day #4

1. Cool breezes
2. Mini donuts
3. Sleeping in

Gratitude, Day 3

Last night I had one of those moments where I felt I needed to add hours to my day.  I had just looked up the reading assignment that needs to be done before my class meets next Monday.  Then I pulled out the books, opened them up, and got a good look at exactly what I was facing. 

Here I’d been, thinking that I can slowly meander my way through these readings sometime this week.  Ha!  Was I wrong!  One of the two is actually to read an entire book.  The other, is about 50-something pages.  But a book!  Sure, I read a book a day sometimes, but that’s fluffy fiction stuff that I select.  Not a book on the intricacies of primary reading instruction and assessment.  Oh my!

So, I’ve spent part of my morning reading and highlighting.  I’ve treated myself to some iced coffee and donuts.  It’s not going so bad.

Oh…it’s decaf coffee and donuts made out of my Medifast food, NOT Dunkin Donuts.  Wanted to make that clear.

As I stressed about this last night, I realized how lucky I am.  I’m stressing about a grad school reading assignment.  Really, this is small potatoes.  I’ve got a job that I love.  My family and friends are amazing people.  My home is a place I enjoy being and feel safe in.  My neighborhood is bike, walk, and run friendly.  I can afford to go to grad school.  Seriously, having to read a book – not a problem.

Now, what may be a problem…my newly discovered donut addiction.  This is serious business, kids.  I had four meals of donuts yesterday and two already today.  I woke up this morning feeling like I’d eaten some forbidden foods yesterday.  Today, when I ate my second meal of Chocolate Brownie mini donuts, I was channeling some sugar-glazed demons from that dreaded DD place.  Oh my, what’s a girl to do except…make more donuts!!!

Yes, it’s time for lunch and to get back to the reading and highlighting portion of my afternoon.  I’m going to reward myself with a ride to the lake later.  Yes, that’s a great plan if I do say so myself.

30 Days of Gratitude, Day #3

1.         A job I love 
2.         A most fantastic and inspiring grad school experience…ALVERNO, people!
3.         Being back on my road bike, Blaze.  It’s been a mighty fine reunion.

Go get ‘em, tigers!

Time to Make the Donuts

Oh my...

Now, I'm a kitchen gadget queen from way back.  I've been collecting my own and hoarding those from family since before I lived on my own.  I bought myself a Kitchen Aid stand mixer for my 31st birthday.  It's just the kind of girl I am.

I’m also the kind of girl that just can’t help herself when she has a Kohl’s coupon in her wallet, it’s tax-free weekend at Kohl’s and they have the Babycakes Mini Donut Maker on sale.  Yep.  You guessed it.  That cute little yellow vessel of happiness is now at home on my kitchen counter.

This morning I experimented with the Medifast Chocolate Brownie and Chocolate Chip Soft Bake packets.

Yep…they make some darn tasty donuts.

Tonight, having freshly tidied up the kitchen, washed the dinner dishes and contemplated my last two meals, I decided I would do some more experimenting and pulled out two packs of Medifast Chocolate Chip Pancakes. 

Wouldn’t ya know it – they are tasty, too.

Oh my…they never told me this is the Donut Diet!

What can I dream up for tomorrow???

Gratitude, Day 2

Good morning and happy Monday!

In today’s installment:

• Letting someone in
• Finding time to breathe
• Day #2 of 30 Days of Gratitude

Yesterday I did something that I don’t know I’ve done before.  I let someone do something for me that I was perfectly capable of doing on my own. 

I know your jaw is on the floor.  Pick it up. 

Yes, I let the man help me.  In my home.  It was eye-opening.  And efficient.  While he put the bookcase together, I got some other things done that moved along my completion of Mission Office Organization.  Now, I am sitting in my organized office with everything in its place feeling mighty proud of myself.  And cared for. 

He saw that there were some things that I wanted to get done and did not hesitate to offer his assistance.  Sure, part of it is that he loves my office (really – it’s about as much office as it is library - and I’m fairly sure he just see’s wall-to-wall books and a collection of Teacher’s Editions of English textbooks, which he’s completely taken with)and thinks it’s a great place to hang out.  It’s also that he’s just a good guy who wants to help. 

Well, blow me over.  Not sure what has my head spinning more…that I’ve landed in the company of a man that is not only smart, funny, reads more than me, is taller than me AND is genuinely nice or that I allowed this smart, funny, tall, and nice reading gentleman to do something for me.  Whatever it is, I know it’s me breaking through some boundaries and growing.

In other news…

In the midst of me being in task-master mode this past week, I came upon a piece of art that spoke to me in many ways.  It also happens to be a DIY project I stumbled upon while cruising Pinterest.  I took some time yesterday to get started with step one…gathering snippets of food pictures.

So, what else could I do on a glorious Sunday afternoon but camp out on the living room floor surrounded by crashing piles of Bon Appétit, Cooking Light, Clean Eating and Whole Living and cutting out pictures of delectable delights.  So as not to be completely uninspired, I put on “Julie & Julia” for my entertainment pleasure.  Oh, it was perfect.

Which brings me to…

30 Days of Gratitude, Day #2:

1.      Learning to grow beyond my own boundaries

2.      Taking time to do something not on the to-do list

3.      The man that gently helped me break down a wall of my own making

Go get ‘em, tigers!

Gratitude

A year ago, I had one of those life experiences that leaves you feeling like the floor suddenly dropped out from under your feet.  I came home from finishing my first week of the school year to my husband asking for a divorce.

The details of this are not important. 

That the people I often refer to as my advisory council were by my side within a half an hour – that is important.  That my parents and these dear friends surrounded me with love, support, encouragement, hugs, and yes, later there was pizza – that is important.  That for the past year each of these people, and so many more, have cheered for me as I’ve picked up the pieces, swept up the mess, put myself back together and become stronger and wiser and more determined than I have ever been – that is important. 

I look back on the past year and am amazed by what I’ve done.  There are so many changes that have happened and each of them brought amazing things into my life.  I live in a fabulous flat with a fabulous landlord – she left baked goods my second day here, supplies me with Sports Illustrated and the occasional bag of produce – seriously, I hit the jackpot here.  I’m in a great, safe neighborhood where I can bike, run, walk, hit the stores, see the family and walk to class.  I picked up running again – and at a time of year when us Wisconsin folks do not start running – winter!  I ended the year with a 5k and started this year with another Polar Bear Plunge.  I took my first completely independent vacation and fell in love Austin, Texas while clearing my head, shaking out the cobwebs, and celebrating my freedom.  I am back in grad school and am almost done with my reading teacher license – something I’ve wanted to do since I was an undergrad.  I am back on my road bike for the first time in three years – alleluia!  I am about to embark on a new adventure in teaching as I move to a new school to work with an incredibly enthusiastic, motivated and energized English department.  I have, more times than I can count or my mom gotten the words out of her mouth, witnessed that yes, mom, everything does happen for a reason. 

This does not even touch on the journey I have been on in my mind and with my body.  If you have been around, you know what I’m talking about.  The running and biking are part of the journey that has changed me inside and out.  I am down about seventy pounds from where I was a year ago.  Yes – that is important!

So many great things have happened in the past year.  It’s not because I’m lucky or followed some how-to self-help book.  It is because I focused on what is positive, didn’t let anger permeate my life and moved forward towards what I want.  I am still on a journey.  It never ends.  There is always something new – a challenge, a job, a class, a book, a relationship – to keep us sharp and fresh.  But I cannot say enough how focusing on what I have and what I want has pulled me through. 

So, today I will again start another month-long journey of focusing on gratitude.  Each day, here and on facebook, I will be posting three things that I am grateful for.  I invite you to share something(s) you are grateful for on my posts or to start your own month-long journey. 

30 Days of Gratitude, Day #1: 1. My family 2. My friends 3. My own strength and determination

Go get ‘em, tigers!

10 Steps to Through-the-Roof Self Confidence

Earlier today I was in a conversation with a friend that is struggling with her self-esteem.  In the exchange between a few other friends, I shared a few of my recent experiences of what I called Through-the-Roof Self Confidence.  My friend asked for 10 steps to Through-the-Roof Self Confidence, and this is what I had to offer.

I share it here now because we all have times that we need a boost, and I'd love to think we all have - or are working towards - possessing Through-the-Roof Self Confidence.

I'm a work in progress, but I'm working on my journey in all areas of life and have definitely come a long way in building up my belief in myself.  I hope these thoughts help you on your journey.

1. Love yourself - you take that however you'd like

2. Spend time with yourself - not wishing you were with others - YOU time

3. Invest in yourself...wardrobe, makeup, hair, a mani/pedi, TIME, take a class

4. Take care of yourself - eat well, exercise, drink LOTS of water

5. Set goals for yourself - whether it's a career goal, exercise/health goal, educational goal - confession: I'm always working on all 3

6. Take risks - try new things, step outside of your comfort zone - accept change - it's good for you!

7. Ask for help when you need it - and ask for advice from people who inspire you in all areas of your life...it's amazing the things you'll learn about people - everyone has had a journey!

8. Accept compliments without "but..." - Just do it! I t's empowering in ways you can't imagine.

9. Do one thing each day that moves you closer to your goals...it adds up.

10. Accept yourself for who you are/where you are and know that life is a work in progress - just be sure you're moving forward.

Go get 'em, tigers!

Smelling the Roses

Yesterday I won my second Biggest Loser title in 15 days.  

The first was in a month long contest run by my health coach in our facebook group.  I was shocked to be the winner in that one, not because I wasn't dedicated to the program, getting in my exercise, drinking plenty - and then some - of water.  I was thrilled to win and to have won in the face of many others who are committed to their journey to optimal health.

Yesterday I was awarded the title in the contest at work.  The school nurse presented me with a notice of the contest results and then the secretary handed over some much-loved cash.  In this contest, I was pretty much certain from day 1 that I would walk away with my colleague's money.  It wasn't just that I am doing this fabulous program and am dedicated to reaching my goals.  I spent the past 8 weeks being tempted (and, I openly admit – succumbing to the temptations MANY times) by the tasty foods and snacks that were passing down the school hallway or being cooked up by my colleagues.  Even with this temptations and often-weakened resolve (tell me you could pass up on the offer of a corned beef sandwich), I kept on track with most of 95% of my plan and continued to guzzle my water and get my walk, bike, run game on.  These choices made the difference. 

Each victory is something that I am proud of - another feather in my cap on my journey towards my goal and optimal health.

Last night I was out with friends from high school at an event to recruit our peers for the reunion in August.  A year ago, I would have told you that I have no intent on going to a reunion.  Since November, I have been working with my friends to plan the upcoming reunion and have enjoyed many evenings out with this group and others that have been pulled into the fold.  Again, there were compliments on how "great" I am looking.  And the friend who said I look like I’m 28 (bless his exaggerating heart!) wins compliment of the night.  

As I was driving home last night, I was thinking about how I didn't feel like the fat girl and I didn't spend my night worrying about what people thought when I ordered a drink or food and I wasn't tugging on my clothes trying to cover up  rolls of fat.  On so many levels, I was experiencing my new normal - and it felt AMAZING!   To think that there’s more of this ahead of me as I move closer to my goal…make my head spin!

Even better, when I got in early this morning, my fitbit sent me a badge for flights climbed and I'd topped my daily step goal...without going for a run or a walk yesterday.

Friends, go out there and claim your life, move yourselves towards optimal health, and ENJOY your life!  There are great things out there for us!

Go get 'em, tigers!

Busy and Living on Auto-Pilot

This past week has been a bit insane.  Between the end of the school year, waiting for my assignment for next school year, finishing up a grad class, getting ready for the next class, deciding to be a TSFL Health Coach, keeping up with family, getting in some time with friends and making sure that I'm doing what I need to do to be healthy...  Whew!  I'm exhausted!

I really have been thinking a lot about my journey to healthy life and weight - but haven't so much been thinking about my food choices.  Sure, this could be a recipe for disaster.  Oh, I know that the ugly stuff could easily rear it's ugly little three-headed (pizza, buffalo wings, ice cream) self right into my path.  But, it hasn't been the case.  Not at all.

Instead, I'm on auto-pilot.  I'm drinking lots of water, eating my 5 MF meals a days and getting in a tasty L&G everyday.  It's great.  And, I'm moving a ton.  This past Sunday, I passed the 20,000 step mark!  Yahoo!!!

And, yes, I've made the decision to take my journey and put it to good use helping others.

And, I know where and what I'm teaching this year.

Life is good.  Things are all continuing to work well for me.  I'm losing weight.  I feel fantastic.  I'm holding my head up high.

How about you?  How are you doing?  Have you been working your program and ingraining the Habits of Health into your life?  I hope so!  

It's been fabulous being able to take care of things without 110% of my attention being on food.  Instead, it's on life!

And, you know what?  If I can do this - so can you!

Go get 'em, tigers!

Positive Peer Pressure

When I was a teenager, peer pressure was generally something that was talked about when referring to something I was not supposed to do.

Now that I am an adult, I see that peer pressure can work for and/or against me.  Of course, it may be easier to stand up for myself as an adult – but the temptation to be one of the crowd isn’t all too different than it was twenty plus years ago.

Today, I succumbed to peer pressure. 

A friend posted on facebook about a run he is doing later in the month.  I simply inquired about the event (and threw out a little comment about how he said he’d show up to a run on new year’s eve & do the polar bear plunge on new year’s day but bailed on both) and then the gauntlet was thrown down.  He said he’d show up before and finish before me.  Oh no he didn’t.  That was it.  You KNOW I made my decision then and there to run this event.  I may not have intended on doing any races for a few months – but that changed as soon as a challenge was thrown out for all of the facebook world to see. 

Now, I’m signing my registration form and sending that and my money away for my registration.  Darn peer pressure!

But this is a GOOD peer pressure.  Yes!  Running a 5k is a good thing.   It’s not smoking a cigarette, doing drugs or any of the other things my parents feared when I was a teenager.  I’m sure they’d be thrilled to hear that a little friendly banter persuaded me to sign up for this run. 

AH HA!!!  And what do you know...I just was tagged in a post from another friend that after seeing that I’d signed up for this 5k she just registered for one in her area!  

My succumbing to peer pressure sent another person to sign up for a 5k.  This is fabulous!  This is what I’m talking about.  Positive Peer Pressure!  Bring it on!!!

Oh, my little tigers…you make me so proud!

To my dear friends Ossie (who has been a peer for many, many years – we’re about to celebrate 20 years since our high school graduation) and Melissa (another traveler on the journey to health and wellness), Cheers! to you both!!!

Go get ‘em, tigers!!!

Sunday Rest & Relaxation

After the excitement of Friday night and Saturday, Sunday was a time of rest and relaxation.  Ahh…

I spent most of the day in my Brewers’ chair-in-a-bag under a tree with my nook at Mom & Dad’s, alternating between scouring Barnes & Noble for my next great read, playing Draw Some and watching Hunter play catch or hit balls in the park across the street.  Oh, and laundry got done, too!

Tomorrow is my Biggest Loser weigh in at work and with all of the walking and staying on program done this weekend, I’m confident that will go well.  Also, I have a fridge and freezer full of great choices thanks to yesterday’s shopping trip and dad throwing my chicken and burgers for the week on the grill today.  Looking forward to some tasty leans this week – thanks, Dad!

Also, tomorrow I’ll be kicking off my walks with a friend from grad school who lives in the neighborhood and is a fellow English teacher.  I’m looking forward to having a walking partner a few times a week!

It’s about to be another busy week, so today’s fresh air and relaxation was a welcome change.  I’m ready for the week which will include finishing up my final paper for class, getting my seniors ready for graduation (praying for them all), voting in the big recall election, and – as always – working my fanny off to stay on program and get my exercise in throughout the week.  Lots going on, but that’s good.

Time to prep tomorrow’s meals and get ready for school.

Wishing everyone a fabulous week!

Go get ‘em, tigers!

Super Saturday - A Tale of Academic and Weight Loss Victories

Happy Saturday, Friends!

My day has been amazing on so many levels.  I am still wrapping my head around it.

This morning I had my final presentation for my spring semester course , Integrated Literacy Development I – which should really be titled Everything You Need and Would Like to Know About Primary Literacy Instruction & Assessment in One Quick Semester.

I will admit that I spent the greater part of this past semester with my head spinning with all of the information from this course.  Yes, there was a LOT of new information to digest.  There was plenty of reading and piles of assessments to get acquainted with.  But, more than any of that was wrapping my head around the inner workings of a first grade classroom.  I teach high school juniors and seniors, people!  Beowulf and Shakespeare are my stomping grounds. 

So, with that in mind, imagine how I felt when handed a thick pile of first grade literacy assessments (the sample data) and was told to create a Primary Comprehensive Literacy Plan and present it as if I’m presenting to a school board for approval.  Uhm…

Well, this morning I gave that presentation.  I woke up bright and early, had my coffee, showered and dressed and walked the lovely six blocks to Alverno and delivered one heck of a kick ass presentation.  Yes, I did!

And, when I was done, my instructor beamed with pride and dished out the compliments.  The best was about how far I’ve come with my comfort level with the content and that based on my presentation, she’d never know that my niche is NOT primary literacy.  Ha!  Yes!  Success!!!

After getting home from my presentation, I realized I left the video recording in the classroom.  I quickly changed and walked back to campus to collect my recording.

Of course, this morning’s victory comes on the coat tails of another awesome victory.

Last night I was declared the Biggest Loser in my health coach’s May Challenge in our facebook group!!!  I was runner up for points for the month.  And, my team had the most points, so we all won a 3 month subscription to Gaiam TV online.  Yippee!!! 

Not a bad start to the weekend.

Now, off for a walk – because my two trips to Alverno and back were just the beginning of today’s walks!

Go get ‘em, Tigers!

June 1st Commitments

My good friend and awesome Medifast Happy Afters Contest winner, Kelsey, suggested to her Super Sexy Medifasting sisters that we make some commitments to ourselves this June.  We're posting these to our facebook group and will look back on our month in 30 days.

This month I will…

• Commit to my blog and mymedifast support groups daily.
• Continue to work on keeping my water and L&Gs interesting and tasty.
• Supporting other Medifasters through interactions on mymedifast and facebook.
• Focus on being a model of good health for family, friends and students.
• Exercise 30-45 minutes a day.
• Remove all oversized clothes from my home.
• Remember where I started and where I am going – and treat all travelers on this journey with respect and kindness.

I know that I need to set goals for myself and write them down in order to move forward towards getting where I want to be.  So, I have these written near my desk and in my planner so that I can focus on my goals and commitments this month and well into the future.

I look forward to seeing where I am on June 30th!

Go get 'em, tigers!

Wrapping Up the May Challenge

As I have said a few times in the past weeks, I am part of a challenge in my health coach's facebook group.  Each day had a theme and every week included a weigh in, complete with a picture of my feet on the scale that had to be posted to the group.  Talk about an accountability check...

Today was the last day of the challenge.  I went into this week leary of what my final scale number would be, as I'm feeling bloated and exhausted from my cycle - but decided to set my head right.  I have been on track all month and have been doing great.  The daily themes have kept me focused on my goals, choices and making sure I am doing everything I need to be successful in creating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and weight.  This even included a rest day on Sundays.

Lynn, my incredible health coach, posted the following today:

“As we draw to the end of this competition I wanted to say that I am proud of each and everyone of you group wide. The support, the team spirit have all been phenomenal. I have seen real changes in you, changes that I am sure will last and shine through in your new lifestyle. This is such a great place to come to, first thing in the morning, in the evening, or even throughout the day. 

One of the keys to success is to surround yourself with others who have the same goals as you do. I believe we have accomplished that. How many of you are now aware of your daily steps? How many of you have increased your amount of water? Learned new tips or recipes? What is your take away from this last competition and what would you like to see as we move forward? 

You are all winners, welcome to your new lifestyle :)”

From others on the team I have gained some new perspective on my journey – whether it be about taking one day and one meal at a time or appreciating each day as a step in the right direction.  I have found new ideas for food and have even incorporated a few of them into my menu. 

As I move forward, I’m continuing to pay closer attention to my total steps for the day and not just taking time for a walk, run or bike ride.  I make an effort to have more steps in each day.  My water consumption continues to be high – but now I’m focusing on shaking that up a bit while still staying in the guidelines of the program.  I’ve been trying some different fruits and vegetables in my water and have a system going at home for this. 

Overall, this past month has really helped me examine why I am on this journey and what I hope to gain from it.  Of course I’m happy to see the scale reflect my hard work, but how I feel and how I carry myself is a reward that a number on the scale can’t do on its own.

Now, onto new adventures in the month of June. 

Go get ‘em, tigers!

Tuesday's Habits of Health Discussion

Habits of Health Discussion Day

Really give this some thought, don't just give answers. 

We all had unhealthy habits prior to our lifestyle change and while you are going through this journey now is a great time to reflect on those old habits. There are habits that are triggers.  There are instances like holidays that are triggers. When you find yourself in a situation that you know is a trigger for you- how will you handle it? What will your action be?

Triggers for me include my parents’ house.  Oh, there is usually an awful lot of good stuff hanging out there just waiting to be devoured.  Sometimes it’s fresh bakery on the counter.  Other days, it’s mom’s brownies.  Sometimes, it’s hiding in the refrigerator.  There is always SOMETHING there that is not on my plan and calls my name as soon as I turn the corner.

Since I am at their house at least once a week, I needed a battle plan.  First, I’ve communicated that this is a problem area for me.  Also, I come prepared.  I bring my water bottle, whatever food I’ll need for my time there and reinforcements – just in case I’m there longer or am ready to cave.  These two actions have made a world of difference in my ability to survive time at mom & dad’s while maintaining positive choices.

I admit, there are times I make a choice that isn’t in keeping 100% on plan.   When this happens, I grab the water bottle, log the decision and keep on moving forward.

This can happen when I am at a friend’s or even at work.  Temptations are all around.  I always have a few meals on hand and my water bottle – it’s my equivalent of the baby’s blanket.  It gets me through.

I’ve come a long way in avoiding temptations in the past nine months.  I can go past the neighborhood custard stand without needing to stop for a sundae.  I can go out to dinner and not have an appetizer, dinner, bread and a dessert.  I can go out with friends and skip the glass of wine or bloody mary at brunch.  These are all victories in my journey to a healthier me – and each one results in a happier me.

Go get ‘em, tigers!

Water Love

I am a girl who typically consumes anywhere from 160-200 ounces of water a day.  Every day.  

Each day as I pack my bags for school, I have six 32 ounce bottles of water in a cooler bag waiting to be stowed in the classroom fridge and consumed throughout the day.  Sure, this leads to many trips to the rest room – but that means many steps counted on my fitbit.

In an effort to add some variety to my water consumption, I’ve taken up drinking 1-2 bottles of homemade iced green tea.  This has been a great way to shake the plain H2O duldrums while ensuring I continue to get my fill of refreshing liquids.

Last week, a colleague mentioned that she had cucumber lemon water at a nearby hotel and that it was fabulous.  I’ve done lemons in water.  I’ve done cucumbers in water.  But, I’ve never done them together.  The next day, we sliced up cucumbers and lemons and added them to our water bottles.  What do you know?  That’s some good stuff!

Before getting acquainted with the cucumber lemon water, I was already on the hunt for a large pitcher with a spout to brew my green tea in.  A friend had this at a recent party and I thought, “Hmm…I need to do that for my green tea.”

During a shopping excursion to Target, I came upon a variety of perfect vessels for my green tea and cucumber lemon water needs.  I decided on some very cute dotted pitchers that are cheery and perfect for what I had in mind.

After getting home, washing the pitchers and then filling them with water and green tea bags and cucumber and lemon slices, I set them up on my kitchen cart, where I keep my fruit & vegetable stand.  Voila!  The perfect at-home beverage station!

I’m on my third CamelBak bottle full of cucumber lemon water and it is tasty! 

Today's Habits of Health Discussion

Today’s Habits of Health Discussion

Habits of Health Recap

What have you learned ?

This month’s experience of sticking our toes in and starting to get a taste for Dr. A.’s Habits of Health has helped me to take the time to focus on my goals and why I am on this journey. 

It is easy to say, “I want to lose weight.” It is a completely different thing to sit down and imagine a different life for myself – one at a healthy weight that includes a consistent involvement with physical activity…not just when the weather is cooperative – I am in Wisconsin, after all.

The act of sitting down, reflecting on my life, my health, my choices and planning for things to be different is so much more than ordering my Medifast meals from Take Shapefor Life and eating five of those a day plus preparing a Lean & Green.  Planning to be successful, navigating roadblocks and pot holes along the way, choosing to stay on plan, accepting slips and moving forward are all part of this journey.

Sharing my choices and my journey are also something that has been a large part of my success and is something I committed to when I recommitted to this program thirty-six days ago.  Through this blog, my participation in discussion groups and blogs on mymedifast and my two Medifast-focused facebook groups, I am sharing my journey and all aspects of this process with the people in my life and those along on this journey with me.  Having the support and encouragement of as many people around me as I can pull together has helped me to focus on my goals because I know people are watching, listening and cheering for me along the sidelines. 

What positive changes have you made this month?

It has been just over a month since I have recommitted to this journey and to my goals of health, weight loss and physical activity.  In this time, I have made a very focused effort to share my journey, take time everyday to evaluate my progress and where I may need a hand and I’ve taken a step back from my plans for an intense summer cycling program.  I am focusing on each day as its own opportunity for me to move closer to my goal, while enjoying each day as the gift it is.  This time around, I am working to appreciate the process and where each step takes me – not just on what the final portrait will look like.