Where I've Been

It's been a busy year.  I didn't forget about this journey or my friends and supporters here, but I was sidetracked.  It wasn't all bad - I must admit.  The scale...my health...how I was feeling about myself...that all needed a facelift.

Last year I started a new position in a new school.  Everything about it was new.  And fabulous.  Stressful at times, but such a good change. 

Somewhere at the beginning of that, I met a lot of wonderful new friends - and my future husband. 

Yep, that's where my weight loss train fell of the track.  Derailed.  Completely.

Over the course of the year, I've made a few attempts to get back on track and have tried a new thing or two, but nothing stuck and I felt like I was playing a guessing game.

Last week, I started back. 

Oh, and two months ago, I got engaged.  Sure, the prospect of buying a beautiful white dress had me thinking it's time to DO THIS!  But more than anything, wanting to be healthy and happy in this beautiful life I'm building with the Mr. has me wanting to get this done.

I was scouring Pinterest earlier for some Lean & Green recipes to add to my repertoire and saw a picture that caught my attention...and looked mildly familiar.  It was a picture from the blog I was keeping on Blogger while doing this journey before.  I got back to that blog (shared that one here, too - as I had been doing all along - and will continue to do) and it brought me back here to share this with all of you...whoever the all of you is, these days. 

Whoever you are, wherever you are...I'm happy to be on this journey with you.  I'm happy to share my adventures with this plan and to learn from you.

Have a fabulous Monday!

Go get 'em, tigers!

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 #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

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!

To Plan or Not to Plan...

Are you a planner or someone who just goes with the flow and lets things happen?

I have always been a planner.  There have been times when I’ve found this to be a thing that gets in the way of living.  However, when taking on a new lifestyle, planning is a key to success.

Sure, it’s easy to follow this weight-loss program without too much planning – but not planning at all is going to result in not-so-great results.

I love that I just have to open and prepare (in a few cases, open and eat) five packets a day to get most of my day’s meals ready.  That leaves my Lean & Green to plan for.  And it requires planning.  Even the five packets a day require planning.

I need to be sure that I’m stocked up on my Medifast meals and order in a timely manner so that I don’t hit that “I’m going to run out!” panic mode.  That surely wouldn’t do me much good while trying to control my food choices and make decisions that will get me to goal. 

I need to plan my Lean & Green meals so that I have plenty of vegetables and leans (beef, chicken, turkey, tuna, cheese, meatless products) on hand to create tasty meals that will keep me satisfied.

I need to think about what my day’s schedule is like so that I know if I need to have a few bars or bags of bites in my purse or if I can prepare a day of shakes to pull out of the fridge in my classroom.

Tonight, I’ve planned for the next two days.  I know that I’m going to the Brewers’ game right after school tomorrow.  I won’t have time to pick up a healthy dinner between school and the game, so I wrote down my Chipotle order and left money with my dad and he’ll have it packed up and ready to go.  I know that I’ll need one Medifast meal for at the game, so I’ll have a bar or bag of Barbecue Bites in my purse for the game.  I know I’ll need lots of water to get through the night, so I’ll have a few large bottles of water ready to go.  And, knowing that I will be the ball game late tomorrow night, I have my meals for Tuesday planned so that I don’t have to worry about them tomorrow night or early Tuesday morning – when I know I will be wanting to squeeze in as many hits of the snooze button as humanly possible.

This is planning to succeed.  This is how I’ve lost nearly 50 pounds and plan to lose a whole bunch more. 

Sure, I could leave it to chance – but then I’d be having a bratwurst with Secret Stadium Sauce and sauerkraut for dinner tomorrow – followed by a soda or a beer.  And I’d be without meals for Tuesday because I’d still hit the snooze button in the morning.

I choose to plan.  Sure, sometimes I take it a little far – but it’s a long way from the starting line to the finish line.

Go get ‘em, tigers!

WHY Lose the Weight?

I just got home from a long day at school - our last Parent/Teacher Conference night of the school year.  I planned on vegging out to a dvd for a bit before getting things ready for tomorrow and crashing in bed with my nook.  But the voice in my head sent me to the blogs on mymedifast, instead.


And I am so glad!!!


I just read a blog post by a seasoned Medifaster.  One who has been there, done that, lost the weight, gained it back, lost it again and is maintaining her healthy weight, healthy lifestyle and has taken on the role of a health coach.  I read her blog daily and often find kernels of wisdom that I have packed into my toolkit of advice to carry with me on this journey.


Today's blog was about defining what you want and setting an attainable timeline for reaching said goals.  


I know that I cannot predict which day I will reach my goal weight any more than I can predict the winning lottery numbers.  However, I can set attainable goals that my choices can help move me towards and this will allow me the opportunity to have better control over how I get to my goals.  I have a time frame that I plan on arrive at my goal.  However, first I need to clarify WHY I have a goal in the first place.  Yes, there is a number that I plan for my scale to arrive at and I plan for that to happen anywhere between my 38th birthday - which is October 28th of this year - and Christmas.  


My ultimate goal is to be healthy.  To look healthy.  To feel healthy and live an active life.  I want to be able to jump on my bike and KNOW I can do what I set out to do - not be surprised by my accomplishments or have others be surprised because I don't look like someone who can bike 200+ miles in 2 days.  It's already very much a part of who I am.  Now, I'm just working on making all of the pieces of me fit the puzzle that is Jenny.

Yep! That's TWO Century Loop Stickers!

Double Century

2008 Wisconsin Bike MS

Best Dam Bike Tour

There.  Now you know.  It's out there in the wide, wide, open.  


Between now and then, there will be many milestones to celebrate and events to commemorate where I am on the journey - and plenty of photo ops!  My school's last prom, graduation, the MS Bike Tour, my 20 year high school reunion, The Dirty Girl Run with a group of friends & former colleagues, time with family and friends, and those great spontaneous moments in life that just need to be photographed.  Every day is a celebration.  A celebration of moving further from where I was and closer to where I'm going.


As I commented on the wise Medifaster's blog just a few minutes ago, "The things we pick up along the way - the things we never thought about - need to be celebrated, also. Standing taller because you feel better about yourself - taking chances you never would have before - receiving a compliment graciously - being assertive about the choices you make to improve your health, life & attitude - each size smaller - being able to walk, bike, run, move more than you could before... Each of these successes is a part of our journey and needs to be acknowledged and celebrated as a stepping stone to our goal of a healthy life."


Go get 'em, Tigers!!!

I Was the Pillsbury Dough Girl

I know that I have lost almost 50 pounds since starting my weight loss journey with Take Shape for Life/Medifast.  I know that the changes are visible.  I know that I am making steps towards a healthier life and weight.


What I didn't know is that just nine months ago, and for sometime before that, I was the Pillsbury Dough Girl!


Really.  Nobody told me.  Nobody said, "Jen, steer clear of the donuts, custard, cake, bread, pizza..."  None of it.


I just got back home from a short walk to Mom & Dad K.'s to drop off some things for them.  I had a brisk walk there, listening to my iPod.  I even got beeped at, from behind, by my friend Sharon - the same one who called me "skinny" the other day (thanks, Sharon!).  I had a nice chat with Mom & Dad.  Then, as I was about to leave, my mom said, "Did you see the pictures I got?"  Uhm...no, I hadn't.


So, I'm standing in front of her gigantic mirror, admiring the changes that are very clear in this fitted yoga pants, and she pulls out a handful of pictures and hands them to me.  My first fear is that they were going to include the wasband.  They were pics from a family wedding from last spring.  She quickly said, "Oh, no...I want you to see something."  I flipped through pictures of family and extended family, everyone looking lovely and happy - even mom who just had a double knee replacement less than a month before.  Then, I saw it.  The Pillsbury Dough Girl was standing in the picture wearing my dress and jewelry.  A dress and jewelry that I was very proud of.  A great find.  Fabulously coordinated.  Seriously, it was the Pillsbury Dough Girl standing next to my dad.


Oh, I was horrified.  Sad.  Shocked.  Stunned.


I just kept looking from the picture to the mirror and back again.  I couldn't quite believe it.


I will be getting my hands on that picture so that I can do a side-by-side comparison.  Oh...you bet I will.  I just couldn't bring it with me because I had no purse or bag.

I can't wait to share it with you - because it's amazing.


Before I handed the pictures back, my mom said, "I just wanted you to see how far you've come."

Today's Sneak Peak Into the Habits of Health

I have mentioned a few times that I am involved in a few facebook groups for support with my weight loss journey.  My health coach with Take Shape for Life has a great group that is quickly growing to include other coaches and their clients.  Everyone is at a different point in their journey and has different goals, yet everyone is open, honest and supportive of the others in the group.  It's a safe place to ask questions and share successes.

Yesterday began the May challenge in the group.  Each day has a theme.  Monday's roll call included a check-in on how you're doing, a weigh-in, and posting a picture of your feet on the scale.  Oh yes...we posted pictures of our weight on facebook.  You bet!  It is a closed, super-secret group and a safe place - but it still takes a deep breath and a prayer to post that sort of thing on facebook.

Today is Habits of Health discussion day.  Each Tuesday my coach will be posting information on the Habits of Health: The Path to Permanent Weight Control and Optimal Health from Dr. Wayne Andersen's book/website for us to discuss and use as a launch pad for our own reflection, goal-setting and focus on our program.

I will admit that I have had Dr. A.'s book since September and have spent a little bit of time with it.  However, I quickly dropped the ball.  I've been meaning to get back to it - and Habits of Health Tuesday's are just what I need to get back to the book.  I will be pulling it out when I get home from school this afternoon and I will work my way through the book and the accompanying workbook Living a Longer, Healthier Life.  I said it here.  I must do it now.

Today's discussion topic from Habits of Health focuses on four things.  1. Identifying the choices that support optimal health and implementing a plan to incorporate them into daily choices, also listing 10 choices that support your health right now 2. Becoming aware of daily choices that do not support health 3. Thinking long term and not instant gratification 4. Creating a microenvironment of health.

Choices that support my health:

• drinking at least 1/2 may weight in pure water each day
• eliminating/minimizing consumption of caffeine
• eating at regular intervals
• walking daily
• running or cycling 4-6 times a week - Yes! Me and the bike have reunited, at last!
• choosing non-processed foods over packaged foods with additives
• adding strength training to my days 3-4 times a week
• asking for support of the people around me
• choosing to eat at home instead of putting myself into situations where I feel I'd make decisions that are not in my best interest
• actively participating in groups that support my journey and encourage me to meet my goals
• logging my daily activity, food choices and water consumption in my journal and online
• using my fitbit to evaluate my progress and set goals for more activity

These things are just a glimpse into what I'm doing each day to improve my health.  I'm sure if I were to revisit this list in a month or two, I would have more to add.

One of the things that helps me most is having an environment that supports my health.  Living alone, it is easy to keep only the foods I should have in the house.  From Medifast packets to plenty of fresh vegetables and lean meats/meat alternatives to water bottles and a variety of green teas, my kitchen is stocked and prepared to support me on this journey towards improved health.  Of course, I am accountable to maintain this environment and not let momentary struggles and/or lapses in judgement allow me to bring home a pint of frozen custard or a dozen donuts.  But then, I would still have to answer to myself for these choices.

Now I really am looking forward to spending some quality time with Dr. A.'s book and thinking more about my journey and what lies ahead.

Could It Be...A Manic Monday?

Yes, it was 6 o' clock when I woke up and discovered it was a MANIC MONDAY! 

I was up much too late last night, caught up in a facebook chat with my delightful Medi-friend Kelsey.  I didn't get as much sleep as normal.  I was all worked up about the challenge starting in my coach's facebook group, the Biggest Loser weigh-in at school, and just the plain and simple fact that...IT'S MONDAY!!!

My daily dose of green tea brewing.

Now, like any well-planned woman who has to step on a scale at an appointed time, I was not about to be eating, drinking, slurping or biting on anything until ALL of my weigh ins were done.  And this wasn't any ordinary Monday morning.  

Oh no!  There was no waking up and doing the birthday suit weigh in and calling it a day.  Nope!  

Today, I had to take a picture of the number on the scale...showing my feet.  And I had to post it to the coach's facebook group for all the world - well, all the world of the super-secret-it's-okay-to-post-your-weight-facebook-group - to see.  Yep.  That's what I did first thing today.

Then, I got ready for a Monday at school...still no food...and headed to school.  I started my first class of the day and then...I weighed in AGAIN.  That's right, friends - today was weigh-in day for The Biggest Loser at work!  And - I'm down 4.5 lbs. since we first weighed in last Monday.  Oh YEAH!!!

And, as much as I was in a funk, waiting to get my first meal of the day in and waiting for the nurse to make her way to her 3rd floor office so that I could 1. get the weigh-in over 2. see how I did on her scale and 3. get back to my classroom and enjoy my Cappuccino, I can't tell you how great it felt to see the 4.5 lb. loss and Nurse Natasha's face when she did the math.  Oh yes!!!  THIS GIRL is going to be winning The Biggest Loser...work edition!

The rest of my day went on as usual and I'm safely back home about to enjoy my Lean & Green dinner of Romaine, Light Hidden Valley Ranch, Spaghetti Squash and Ground Turkey with Italian Seasoning...mostly leftovers from last night - which I have been looking forward to all day.  Then, it's time to lace up the shoes and head outdoors for some fresh air and a walk.

My friends, have a fabulous rest of a Monday and I will see you tomorrow.

Go get 'em, tigers!

Does Grad School NEED to Equal Weight Gain?

Originally Published April 28, 2012


First, I want to say that I have lost weight this semester.  Thank you, Medifast! 

Shortly after my first official attempt at losing weight, I started graduate school.  This was in the spring of 2001 and it was also just my second semester teaching.  For the first three months of the "diet" I was successful, had started spinning, lost just over 20 pounds and was feeling great!  Then, I started classes.  And gaining the weight back.  And adding more on.  By the end, I weighed more than I started before I started that "diet."

I am back in graduate school again - new degree & new weight-loss plan.  While my slip from round 1 of Medifast had nothing to do with grad school, the timing was a little too much for me to ignore.  So, I grabbed the bull by the horns and am now happily back on Medifast and down 12 pounds from where I was 12 days ago.  This morning I finished up my class for the semester.

As I was filling out my course evaluation, someone got up to get a donut from the "treat" table - we all signed up for a day so that there'd be some food in class every week.  Some days it was bagels and donuts and juice and cookies.  Some days it was a deli tray with veggies, sausage and cheese.  Some days there was fruit and vegetables.  But, we all know - most days it was bagels, donuts, juice, cookies, kringle and all sorts of sugar-laced tasty treats.  And the juice.  Juice boxes, juice pouches, fancy combo juices...you get the picture.

I sat at my table today with my bottle of iced green tea (which I made last night while strengthening my resolve against the treat table) and kindly ignored the table of bagels and donuts and cookies.  I had a bar in my bag if I decided I needed to eat something.  I was prepared.

I declared victory over the treat table this morning.  I had my coffee & MF cappucino this morning and my trusty Camelbak of green tea in class.  I planned, I prepared, I prevailed!

The past few weeks have been full of stress.  HOW would I finish my final project in time for the presentation?  HOW would I get my paper done before today?  HOW will I pay tuition for the next three semesters?  WHY am I putting myself through this?

I've found answers to all of these questions.  I've been logical and mature and made decisions that will allow me to continue to be successful.  

I didn't find the time in the bottom of a pint of Ben & Jerry's.  My paper was not hidden beneath a pile of Buffalo wings.  Tuition money is easier to scrape together if I'm not stopping at Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts or the local frozen custard stand.  And, just as I am doing Medifast so that I can live a better and more fulfilling life that includes the things and people I love, I am in graduate school again so that I can live a better and more fulfilling life that includes the things and people I love.

Graduate school does NOT need to equal weight gain.  Stress does NOT need to equal weight gain.  Life does NOT need to equal weight gain.

We have the tools right in front of us to get everything we want out of our lives.  We just need to make that decision for ourselves and go after it like our lives depend upon it...because it does.

Go get 'em, tigers!

Keeping it Clean & Simple

Originally Published April 27, 2012


Yesterday I had the great fortune of being welcomed into a facebook group of medifriends.  It is an active and chatty group of ladies that are really working their journey - wherever they are in this process.  Some are very new, some are in transition and some - like me - are returning customers.  This is what inspired yesterday's Find Your Happy Place blog post.

Well, this group is taking on a challenge for the weekend - we're keeping it CLEAN & SIMPLE today through Sunday...longer if we're inspirted.  No extras in our meals, sticking to our water, adding in some green tea, and staying true to the program.  I love it!

Sometimes, we need a reminder of what it is that's going to get us to goal - and through goal into the healthy lifestyle that will keep us going and active for the rest of our lives.  It's good to review the program and sharpen our focus.  Not that we purposefully let things loosen up - but life gets a hold of us and sometimes, the picture is a little blurry, the scale is buried under a spaghetti squash (yes, that is the case this very moment), the measuring cup is in the pile of dirty dishes.  

Well, this weekend is the time for us to put on our glasses (maybe I should clean the lenses...), bake that spaghetti squash for another day and do the dishes!

If you're inclined to challenge yourself to clean up your routine, I welcome you to join me and would love to hear how it goes for you.  You know where to find me.

Happy Medifasting Weekend, my friends!

Go get 'em, tigers!

Finding Your Happy Place

Originally Published April 26, 2012


We all have different needs and different lifestyles.  When it comes to our Medifast journey, these things come into play.  You need to figure out what you need in terms of support and go out and get it for yourself!  

Do you have a coach?  

• How's that working out for you?  
• Do you communicate with your coach as often as you'd like?  
• Too much?  
• Sick of phone calls?  
• Don't like email?

What's your support network?  

• Do you have friends doing MF?  
• Have you made friends on the mymedifast site? 
• Are you blogging? 
• Do you post questions? 
• Have you thoughtfully and considerately replied to someone's question?  
• Do you comment on blogs to give a high five or a pat on the back to a fellow traveler on this journey?

Have you linked up with some MF resources out their in the land of social networking?

• Are you a tweeter or facebooker?    
• Are you in an MF friendly facebook group?  
• Do you tweet each meal?

You don't need to be doing ALL of these things.  I'm not doing ALL of these things.  But, I am doing the things that meet my needs.  

THAT'S what we all need to do.

Figure out what works for you and your lifestyle.  

Communicate that with your coach and find support here or in your "real" world.  

Whatever it is you do, you need to advocate for YOU to make this journey work FOR you.

Go get 'em, tigers!

Let the Games Begin!

Originally Published April 24, 2012

We knew it was coming and yesterday it arrived.  The start of the annual staff Biggest Loser competition. 

The game is on!

Yesterday, one-by-one, we each visited the nurse's office to bare our deepest, darkest secret to the school nurse.  Well, their deepest darkest secrets, as my weight is public information for anyone who can find me on this site!

So, today we have only the juniors in school for the statewide ACT testing.  After testing, the students were provided a "lunch" of nachos (tortilla chips, seasoned ground beef, cheese sauce and the obligatory jalapenos), Capri Sun and a selection of other treats.  The students were happily recovering from their ACT-induced comas while socializing with the friends.  And the teachers...they were all in the hallway, in the nachos line, piling their chips with yumminess.  Every single one of them.  Except me. 

While my friends were talking up their intentions of winning The Biggest Loser, I sat with my little bowl of Medifast Homestyle Chili and refilled my Camelbak bottle for the third time today.  I didn't say a word.  I just looked around, took it all in, and happily nibbled on the chili - which was a real treat because I almost always have shakes for meals, but had this in the fridge in my classroom in case of an emergency.  And, this was an emergency.  Everyone around me was eating what probably amounts to more than 2 days worth of calories and who knows how many days of carbs in my world!  A chai latte was not going to cut it.  I'm sorry.  That's the trutch - as much as I've grown to love the stuff. 

So, I had chili for lunch and they had nachos.  My afternoon snack was a hot cocoa mix, mixed with diet root beer (oh my...you MUST try that).  My dinner is going to be a fabulous Chipotle salad - which I will be enjoying at the Brewers' game tonight.  And I'm going to have some peanut butter soft serve to end my night.  All this, along with a few more Camelbak's worth of water.  Ah...

Oh, and while they sat around talking after they were done devouring their nachos, I did five trips up and down the stairs or our three floor building.  I topped that off with a four laps of the third floor.

The cost: $10.  The prize: $10 x the number of people who chose to take on the challenge.  Winning because you lost the highest percentage of weight between now and the end of the school year: PRICELESS!

Who's your money on?

Week One Results

Originally Published April 23, 2012


Good Morning & Happy Monday, Friends!

I've been up for nearly two hours, have had my morning walk and my Hot Cocoa with Coconut Cream coffee.  Being up that early may not necessarily be my favorite thing, but the walk and the hot cocoa are right up this medifasting girl's alley.  Mmm mmm...yum!

So, I did my week one scale jump this morning.  And, I'm down 10.2 pounds.  I'd like to put that in flashing lights right here, but I'll save that for something better...like...GOAL!

Now, on to the rest of my regularly scheduled day: shower, drive to work, sing along to the radio and look like a lunatic in the morning commute, a wonderful day teaching 16-18 year-olds the fine art of literature, stairs and laps during my lunch hour, fly home to shower and change for an interview, back home for a tasty L&G of buffalo chicken over salad, and then a dvd to close out the day.

Okay...can I go back to bed now?

Have a fabulous Monday!!!

Go get 'em, tigers!

Struggling

Originally Published April 14, 2012

I am struggling.  

There, I said it.  Now you know.

The past few weeks have seen me yo-yo-ing all over the place with food.  I have made more poor food choices in the past month than I did during the time I was in transition and then the short time that I was off program completely.

I have spent a lot of time in my head trying to work through the what, why, how of my behavior...as I have spent the past few months figuring out why my zeal for the program is not what it was a few months ago.

I've come to a few conclusions and decisions.

First, when I started this program at the end of August, I was fresh out of my marriage and starting to spread my wings and figure out what was next.  There was a lot of hurt, anger and buckets full of determination to put myself back together again.  Piles of motivation and armfuls of encouragement were all around me.  Add to that the goal of showing up to the court date a different person...  Well, you get the picture.

Second, I've come out on the other side of that experience.  I pulled myself up by my bootstraps in every conceivable way and have moved forward with confidence and have all of the things going on in my life that I want.

Finally, with all of this great progress, there is a lot of overwhelming thoughts and experiences.  And, my plate is wobbling and overflowing with life.  This is good.  No, it's fantastic!  But, it's really a challenge to keep it all together.

I'm kicking butt in grad school, I'm doing great with my friends, my family thinks I'm amazing, I've been dating someone who appreciates and understands ME..but this taking care of myself, my health, and staying active...it has fallen far to the wayside.

It isn't off the radar, it's just in the gutter.  Sometimes the wind blows it into the center lane...but it quickly gets passed by a looming deadline, papers to grade, a get-together with friends, a date with that handsome man and lately, the final project for the semester.

As I near the completion of this project and look forward to the last weeks of the school year, a summer of some rest and probably lots of homework and then whatever is ahead, I know that I need to grab control of things and get down to the brass tacks.

I've cleaned out the house of any remnant of poor food choices, meals for tomorrow are prepared, my next order is shipping in a few days.

I've dusted off the hoops and hand weights and have my clothes ready for the gym.

I can do this!

What Motivates Me?

Originally Published January 5, 2012

The question "what motivates you?" was asked on the discussion boards.

Here are my thoughts...

1. ALWAYS have water with me.  Even when I go into a different room at home/work.  Really.  My Camelbak bottle goes everywhere I go.

2. Read the boards - stay away from negative posts and chatter about "cheating" and interact with other members - build your network here

3. Read, post your own, comment on blogs - I don't read all of them, but I read most.  If it speaks to me, or I can contribute or give a pat on the back, I do.  Share when you are struggling, people will reach out to give ideas.  Share when you're successful - we want to learn from each other and share what's working.

4. Set goals - not weight/date goals, but things you want to accomplish.  What do you want to get out of this?  Do you have an activity you'd like to do?  Non-weight goals are very helpful.  Mine are running/biking related.  Running a 5k (check, check, check!), a 10k (aiming for March 17th), a half-marathon (May 5th), biking a double century in a weekend (I've done it before - will do it again August 4-5th), running a marathon (hoping for October).

5. Measurements on a regular basis.  I started with weekly (crazy, but true).  Now, I do every 2-3 weeks.  I keep a table with the results.  After a few months, it's unbelievable to look at that.  Do the same with your weight.  The outcome is awe-inspiring!

6. Take progress photos of yourself...even if they are only for yourself!  I didn't change my profile picture or share other pics until I lost almost 100 pounds...that's when I was comfortable sharing.  But, I have been taking them every few weeks for myself.  AMAZING to look back at them and compare where you were with where you are - and it helps see where you are going.

7. Ask for help when you need it.  If you feel you're challenged with motivation, say so and ask for help.  This is why you build a network - they're the people that will have your back when you need it!

8. Do whatever you can to manage your environment and dining out.  Choices are choices.  The choices you make will determine your success.  Advocate for yourself and your health...nobody's going to do this for you.  Communicate with the people you spend time with what your food needs are.  

9. Every few weeks, go try on some clothes at a store.  You don't have to continuously buy new clothes (I've bought hardly anything between what was in my closet from previous weight loss and two VERY generous friends who have gone before).  However, every few weeks, I'm at the mall trying on clothes.  It's fun and gives you an idea of where you are at.

10.  Did I mention water?  DRINK LOTS OF WATER.  It fills you up.  It flushes the yucky stuff out of your body.  It keeps you hydrated.  It's good for you.  

Wishing you all an amazing journey to health and discovering your potential awesomeness! 

Go get em, tigers!

Anxiety

Originally Published January 3, 2012


For over four months I've been a dedicated Medifaster who has stuck to the plan, chugged my water, and gotten out on a regular basis to get some exercise.  I have avoided temptations of all varieties...I think the hardest was the first few times I was anywhere within smelling distance of pizza.

A lot of this has to do with planning and environment.  I plan my meals for the week when I'm working (currently on winter break from teaching) and live alone.  I do still eat out - at first I limited it to once a week.  Now, I'm a little more flexible - but still plan and have control of my home environment.  And, if I'm feeling like I can't handle temptation, I keep my act at home and refocus.

Today, this is saving my shrinking backside.

If I were out and about right now, I can tell you exactly where I'd be and what I'd be doing...  I would be on my way to the nearest store that sells the delicious cupcakes that I love with that frosting that's whipped into submission to the point that you can't even detect a grain of sugar because it is so smooth and buttery.  I would be eating that cupcake...or maybe even a little cake (more frosting that way).  

I am having the anxiety attack of my life here and sticking to the plan is what is keeping me in the house, will have me in bed at a decent hour, is sending me to the living room to hula hoop with my weighted hoop and to the kitchen to refill the Camelbak water bottle that has saved me from many a near-accidents.  

Tomorrow morning is my court date to finalize the divorce.  I haven't seen the wasband since mid-September.  I don't want to see him.  I don't want to talk to him.  I have nothing left to say.

My outfit is picked out, ironed and ready to go.  The coffee maker is ready to go for the morning cuppa.  My ride (a friend who has graciously volunteered to go with me to court and then to hit our favorite spot for brunch and cocktails) is confirmed and we've a list of "talking points" to keep me distracted while we wait.

I'm ready.  I'm ready for this to be over and to officially move on.  I'm ready to know that this chapter is closed.  I'm ready to have my name back.

I am ready.

And, to my dear Medifast friends who have been with my since shortly after this chapter of my life took a very bumpy ride and delivered me on the road to regaining myself - THANK YOU!  You have had my back, had the right words when I needed them and have been full of reassurance.  THANK YOU!  You have saved me, as well.

Hugs, love and wishes for everyone to have a brilliant new beginning in this beautiful new year.