Amanda's Heading to the Beach Journal! Feedback Welcomed!

[septbride2002]

I have a hang nail..........

This is DAY 1 of Boot Camp! It is time to be serious!
Plan for today:
B: Nothing - I woke up super late today and was lucky to be at work on time.
L: Low Carb Meatloaf - 4.5 carbs, 2 pieces of salami and a slice of cheese - 2 carbs.
D: Pork Roast (cooking in the crockpot now) and broccoli/cauliflower mix with cheese. - 5 carbs, 3 bites of stuffing - 5 carbs
S: No Sugar Hot Chocolate - 9 carbs
Exercise: Curves - 30 minutes
Water - 8 glasses - 2 are down.
Vitamins - already taken.

~Amanda

************************************************** *
I am being a total copy cat and following Doe and Erin and starting a new journal. My other journal is long and the last 50 pages or so is of me going back and forth. Time for a fresh start - and today is Day 1 so it is a great time to start over!!

~Amanda

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

Welcome to your new Journal and fresh start. It may be just what you need to kick start your weight loss goals. Your plan for the day looks good.

Have a great day,
Beth

[DoeWDW]

"I have a hang nail....." :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:
I have always loved your sense of humor! :hug: Thanks for the giggle! I hope we can all be serious about getting healthy but still have the fun we've grown accustomed to in our journals. :thewave:

Thanks for all your encouragement, dear Amanda. You and I both KNOW we can do this. It will take all our patience, persistence and willpower but the rewards are so worth it! ::yes:: We've got each other to help with the rough spots. :grouphug:

Now, DROP & GIVE ME TWENTY!! (oops, wrong kind of boot camp :blush: ). :teeth:

:hug: and :sunny: for a great first day!!

[lulu201]

Hey, girlfriend! :flower: Glad to see you're feeling :sunny: today and are ready to hit your new plan HARD! :banana: I'll be thinking of you as I'm making my jello!

Erin

[sarahsmom73]

Go Amanda! :cheer2:

[lulu201]

OK, so let's have a report. . .how did yesterday go? Did you get to Curves? More importantly, did you have your jello? :teeth: Did you have your breakfast today?

:goodvibes , :sunny: , and :flower: on your new day, Amanda.
Keep on keeping on!

Erin

[pettyone]

I have a hang nail..........

~Amanda

AND YOU WENT TO WORK??!! :rotfl:

I like the *NEW* journal...good luck with boot camp!!

[septbride2002]

Tracy - I like the way you think! LOL! :rotfl: Thanks for the laugh this morning - I needed it.

Well Boot Camp Yesterday was a success - last night at about 8:30 I stood over my sink and gulped down 2 glasses of water to make it an even 8 glasses. My DH thought I had lost my mind. :p I also made myself go to bed very early. Going fully back to low carb will make me very tired usually about day 3 so I am trying to get myself in bed early so that I will lessen the effects.

Day 2 of Boot Camp!
B: Sugar Free Jello - 0 carbs
L: Subway Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub on whole Wheat - 42 carbs
S: mini bag of skittles - 5 carbs
D: Tequilla Lime Chicken and Mexican Cauliflower Rice - <5 carbs
Exercise: Curves
Water - 12 glasses of water
Vitamins - taking them now.

~Amanda

**********************
1:10p.m. edit:
I am having the WORSE day at work and went to subway with a friend to clear my head. Instead of ordering a wrap - which would have been fine, I decided to splurge on the whole wheat bread - thinking that it would be okay and lower in carbs. NOPE! WRONG! The sub is 42 carbs!!!! Obviously I am not going to write off the day and I will just do my best tonight to stay low carb. I checked my Tequilla Lime Chicken recipe and it is less then 5 carbs per serving - so I think I'll be okay. Not a great way to go through my 2nd day but I am not going to sweat it either.

~Amanda
************************
7:30 edit:
Oh I faltered today on the food. Total of 52 carbs consumed - way over my limit - but ya know I did not let myself slide. I came home and made my dinner low carb and drank 12 glasses of water today and I may still have more. My Curves workout was a good one and much more effective then yesterdays. So although I wasn't perfect on food I am not going to let that damper my spirit. I'm still in boot camp and therefore I will rise again to the challenge tomorrow.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

:wave: Hi Amanda!!

How did Day 1 of boot camp go? We want a full report - enquiring minds, ya know! :p (EDIT: We posted at the same time - never mind :blush: )

Today is a new day and you'll be walking the straight and narrow! We are getting lean just in time for spring! :cool1: :cool1:

Have a wonderful day! :sunny:

[DoeWDW]

You asked for the Chicken Waldorf Salad recipe so here ya go!

Chicken Waldorf Salad - from Dana Carpender's 500 Low Carb Recipes
(I always make a double batch so these are the doubled ingredients)

2 chicken breasts, cooked & shredded (I boil them for 30-40 minutes)
1 C mayonnaise
3 ribs celery, chopped
1 C chopped walnuts
1 small Granny Smith apple, chopped

This should make 4 servings. Each serving has 9g carbs with 3g fiber, so net carbs are only 6g per serving combined with plenty of protein.

Don't know why I love this so much, but I do. :p

[lulu201]

Oh, c'mon, Amanda! You think I'm going to believe that you're going to bed early to "lessen the effects" of lo-carb????? I know you love your new bed and want to be there as much as possible! :cloud9:

Eat in a healthy way this afternoon.
Erin

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

The ww sub was still better than on white bread.:)

You did a great job recovering lc with dinner and you had a good workout. tomorrow will be yours. So tell me, did DH go to bed early as well?

Take care,
Beth

[sarahsmom73]

Keep looking forward and not back! You are doing great! :cheer2:

[DoeWDW]

Sounds like you made the best of a bad situation, Amanda. Yes, you should have ordered the wrap, but you did a fabulous job of stopping the damage before it got too bad. You salvaged the day!! YAY!! :Pinkbounc

Today, we're all about being SERIOUS about this! You CAN live within the guidelines you've set for yourself, even when things at work are tough. ::yes::

Let's motor through Day 3!! :moped: VROOM, VROOM!! :cheer2:

[septbride2002]

I have a hang nail........... :rolleyes:

:) Last night was rough - I craved anything and everything that I could not have. I got tired of watcing TV because it was all food commercials! I ended up going to bed at 9:30 - reading for 20 minutes or so and then to bed!

No Beth, DH stayed up later ;)

Today is a new today, and a new set of challenges.

B: Going to the cafeteria to get an omelet - 5 carbs
S: Small bag of peanuts - 5 carbs
S: 1 slice whole wheat bread w/peanut butter - 10 carbs
D: Low Carb Spaghetti - Need to plug numbers but I'm thinking somewhere around 12 carbs
S: Sugar Free Jello
Water - 8 glasses- :)
Exercise - Curves- :)
Vitamins - I'll take them with my eggs.- :)

~Amanda
********************
edit 6:30p.m.
There are bad bad days at my work and then there are good bad days at my work. Today was good bad day which means that I was busy getting applications (and thus increasing my pocket book) the bad was that I had to skip lunch!!! Thank Goodness the Omelet I had this morning was very filling or else I'm pretty sure I wouldn't have made it. I actually didn't get hungry till about 2:30 and then I felt weak. I'm glad my assistant was able to let me borrow 50 cents so that I could get that back of peanuts to sustain me.

I went and worked out and then came home and made spaghetti - it was delicious since we haven't had it in awhile!

~Amanda

[rcyannacci]

:) Last night was rough - I craved anything and everything that I could not have. I got tired of watcing TV because it was all food commercials! I ended up going to bed at 9:30 - reading for 20 minutes or so and then to bed!


Hi Amanda! :wave:

I've been noticing this too when I watch TV! Advertising is evil!!!

[pettyone]

I have a hang nail........... :rolleyes:


If you thought I was joking about not going to work with such an injury, I have a co-worker you need to speak with...really! Okay, so my co-worker hasn't used THAT for an excuse, although, "I tripped over the rug on the way into the bathroom this morning, then I dropped the soap in the shower, so my nerves were shot...that's why I was late today" probably would rank right up there...somebody please shoot me...or my co-worker...I don't care at this point!!

Whoa! Sorry for the rant!

Have a great day!! :cheer2:

[lulu201]

Good afternoon, Amanda. How's it going? You sound like you have a good solid plan. I know that whatever curveballs the day may throw at you, you're going to keep things right on track. :cheer2:

Erin

[toystoryduo]

Hi Amanda,

It sounds like you have a good plan for today. How did your day go? I so agree with you about the commercials! As soon as I started South Beach, all of the commercials with carby foods caught my attention. :earseek:

Hang in there, Amanda! You CAN do it! :cheer2:

[sarahsmom73]

Well we can bash the TV and the SCALE if you want! :cool1:

[DoeWDW]

:rotfl: I like the way sarahsmom thinks!!! Let's bash 'em both!! :badpc: :badpc: It'll help relieve your work frustrations!! :cloud9:

Amanda, I am proud of you!! You could have used your missed lunch to sabotage your plan but you stayed strong!! :Pinkbounc WOO HOO!! I'm thankful for your coworker (who loaned you the change) and for the vending machine guy (who put those peanuts there).

Best wishes for a wonderful day with lots of $$ at work but which still allows you a leisurely break for lunch! :hug:

[septbride2002]

What a day yesterday was! Whew! I'm glad it is over! Of course now we have to deal with today, Happy Thursday Everybody! My plan is to be on auto pilot :moped: most of the day.

B: Protein Shake - 2 carbs (1 low carb product for the day) :p
L: Tequilla Lime Chicken w/Cauliflower (this was suppose to be my lunch yesterday) - 5 carbs :p
S: 4 baby carrots and 1 mini twix bar - 14 carbs
D: Chicken Ranch Salad - estimated - 4 carbs
Nibbled on some fries and half a mossarella stick - no binging. (10 carbs)
Exercise: Will do 30 minutes worth of ab work and stretching. :p
Water: 8 - 10 glasses. - 11 glasses :p
Vitamins: Already Taken - :p

~Amanda

************************
edit 12:30p.m.
things are going good and I just packed up my snack for later today. I am going to have a busy afternoon so please forgive me if I don't make it to anyone else's journal today. I think my job is trying to push to see how far I can bend at the moment ;)

~Amanda
************************
edit 5:30p.m.
We are getting ready to go out to dinner. Instead of doing Curves after dinner I've decided to do 30 minutes of ab work along with stretching. I will still be going to Curves Saturday morning which is when I will weigh in.

~Amanda
**************************
edit 7:45p.m.
Well I did my exercise work and had a good workout - my heard definately got elevated during it and that is all that matters. I used my 5 lb weights and did some squats and some tricep curls since I don't really think Curves hits those muscles much. Plus I did 50 upper ab, 50 lower ab, and 50 on each oblique for a total of 200 crunches. Plus some leg lifts and outer leg lifts. Then I stretched everything out and am feeling fabulous.

I munched a little to much on carby foods at dinner tonight so I'm letting that eat up what is left of my carb total. I don't think I ate enough to use up all 10 carbs but I should do better and not eat that stuff anyway. The chicken salad was very yummy though.

~Amanda

[lulu201]

Just stopping by for the afternoon cheer: :cheer2: GO, AMANDA! :cheer2: Did you eat your chicken for lunch? You're staying on track and making good choices!

Have fun at Curves tonight--do a circuit for me while you're at it. :flower:

Erin

[Strings]

:wave2: Amanda,

I'm sorry that work is a pain right now. I am so proud of the way you handled yesterday. No excuses from you. Have a great time at Curves tonight.
Beth

[sarahsmom73]

I am proud of you!!! Keep moving forward!!! You are doing great!!! :flower:

TGIF!!!! :banana: :flower: :flower:

[DoeWDW]

Amanda, you're doing GREAT!! :cheer2: You have let NOTHING get in your way this week!! I'm impressed that you got your workout in at home instead of Curves - I know that working out at home isn't always easy for you. You got in an AWESOME workout and you did it on your own!! :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc (there's a bounce for each set of 50 crunches - WOW!!!).

Now, do I have to come smack your fingers over a couple fries???? If you truly can eat a couple fries and let it go, then fine. However, if it sets you up for more carb cravings down the road, then you need to stand firm. I'm not sure if fries are a trigger for you like they are for me - but I can't have ANY right now. I'll get out of my Tough Love mode now. :p I just really really want you to be successful. :hug:

Today is Friday!! We're gonna make it to the weekend! WOO HOO!! Do you have a favorite Friday party song for your journal today?? Strike up the band!
:sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

[septbride2002]

:rockband: Got my first realy 6-string,
bought at the 5 and dime.
Played until my fingers bled.
Was the summer of '69. :dancer:

It is summer like weather here in St. Louis which makes me feel like rolling down the windows and going for a long drive.

Doe - fries are not a trigger food for me. At least not like pizza or ice cream is. Usually I can ignore frieds - but it is harder when they are covered in creamy cheese and bacon! I didn't have a single craving the entire evening.

Last night DH and I went to bed at 9:45!!! It had been a rough day but I woke up this morning feeling refreshed and very :banana: <----love this guy!

Plan for today:
B: egg, sausage patty, and cheese - 3 carbs
L: Low Carb Spaghetti - 12 carbs
S: ?? Not sure
D: We are going to a happy hour after work (I'll be sticking with water) and then running to the grocery store. Dinner will probably be a fend for yourself sort of thing tonight.
Water - 8 to 10 glasses
Vitamins - taken
Exercise - Rest day.

~Amanda

[lulu201]

Oh, Amanda, that's why we're friends: we both don't do tires! :flower: :flower:

You're just rocking the healthy living world, honey! Now this I hate to confess, but I feel I must. . .to be true to our friendship and all:

I don't do crunches either.

BUT YOU DO!!!! YOU ARE DA BOMB!!!! :banana: :banana: (I love him, too!)

Have a great weekend and uh, well, continue to enjoy your new bed. :rolleyes:

Erin

[sarahsmom73]

Send that summer like weather this way!!! We are FREEZING!!! :cold: :cold: :cold:

[septbride2002]

Gosh I love Curves!

So I went in this morning to workout and did my measurements and weight so that I would have a better idea of where I need to be by April 1st.

Bust - 0 inches lost/gained
Waist -1 inch
Abdomen: +.25"
Hips - 0 inches lost/gained
Thighs: +1"
Caleves: +.50"
Arms: +1.5"
Weight: 2.80lbs
Body fat % -2.00%
Body Fat Pounds -4.26 lbs

Losing Body Fat is really the focus so that is awesome!!! And my Body Fat% went from 36.10 to 34.10!! The lady looked and me and said what have you been doing besides this? She also said to not worry about the gain in inches in my arms and legs because that is muscle. Of course I'm not happy with the gain in my abs! And it might explain why my jeans are fitting funny on me. Lost an inch in my waist but gained in the lower abs - not good!

Yesterday for the most part was a success. I had one cosmopolitan at happy hour and drank diet soda the rest of the time. I feel bad because there is a small group of people who are always inviting us to do things with them but they are just so irresponsible. Like last night the one girl was teasing me because I was drinking a diet soda. Why should she care that I'm not drinking alcohol? She is young, and still acts like drinking is the end all be all to everything. I like to have a good time but I would never ever tease someone for not drinking.

However my DH did drink a little to much so we made a Hardees run afterwards. I had a low carb burger but then finished half of his regular burger. I was starving for some reason. So I wasn't perfect with food - but there was no binging and I made the best decisions that I could so that is all that matters.

DAY 6!!!!
B: Not sure - might have to just do some cheese and turkey.
L: ?? Again not sure
D: Low carb Parmesean Chicken
S: ??
Water: 8 to 10 glasses - 2 already down.
Vitamins: I forgot my bottle at work :(
Exercise: Curves - Done! :p

I'm going grocery shopping as soon as I'm done with journals so I'll have more choices for meals today.

I have now exercised 5 days for this week which was part of my boot camp!!!

~Amanda

[rcyannacci]

Congrats on your Curves measurements! That's great! I get measured again in a week, and am actually looking forward to it. My jeans are also starting to fit differently, but I'm waiting for the change of seasons before I start shopping for anything else.

Have a great weekend!

[lulu201]

Hey, Amanda, you are doing great! :banana: I'm telling ya, you've gotta be in the next Curves ad campaign as a huge success story!

Hope you find a good oatmeal option. It's great for these last few cold mornings :cold: of winter.

Enjoy your weekend!
Erin

[sarahsmom73]

Great job Amanda!!!!! :cool1: :cool1: You are doing such an awesome job! :cheer2:

[septbride2002]

I didn't do great yesterday. I did manage to get in 7 or 8 glasses of water, I lost count after awhile. But I was certainly not low carb - especially when you consider I had TWO pieces of Dairy Queen Ice cream cake! YIKES! :sad2:

The good news is that I tried on my Tankini yesterday and the top fits almost perfect. Another month and I think it will be just right. The bottoms are a whole other story. :)

Today DH and I spent about an hour or two doing yard work. Time to clear the dead leaves out of the flower beds and put fertilizer on the lawn. He is out washing the car right now and I'm in the house playing around. The neighbors might be going for a walk later, but I think I am going to skip it this time and spend the time relaxing around the house. Plus I need to do the bills :teacher:

Plan for today:
B: 2 eggs, green peppers, 1 1/2 slice cheese - 3.5 carbs
L: ??? Haven't decided yet - might be the leftover Chicken Paremesan and some salad.
D: Grilled Steaks, Salad, and maybe some grilled green peppers as well. YUMMY
S: No sugar added Jello.
Exercise: rest day
Water: 8 to 10 glasses
Vitamins; Bottle is still at work :(

~Amanda

[sarahsmom73]

Great job on the tankini!!!! :cool1: You are doing great! We all jave slip ups just remember to look forward.. Not back!!!! :flower:

[DoeWDW]

:cheer2: Amanda's gonna be the Curves poster girl in that good-lookin', fittin' just right tankini!! :cheer2:

You are doing a great job!! I know you slipped a bit this weekend, but today is the start of a new week and we're going to be back on track! ::yes:: Why, you ask??? Because it WORKS!! Just look at those numbers from Curvers!! :banana: Another great week like last week will mean even better numbers the next time! :cloud9:

Have a wonderful Monday, dear Amanda!! :sunny:

[pettyone]

Today DH and I spent about an hour or two doing yard work. Time to clear the dead leaves out of the flower beds and put fertilizer on the lawn. He is out washing the car right now and I'm in the house playing around. The neighbors might be going for a walk later, but I think I am going to skip it this time and spend the time relaxing around the house. Plus I need to do the bills :teacher:



Yard work!?! You're making me (and my yard) look bad...not to mention all of the calories you burned (that I did not)...ho-hum...

Oh, BTW, that tankini is going to be the BOMB!! You go, girl!!

[septbride2002]

Well yesterday was another day of struggle. I think it was because I had to much free time and therefore to much time to think about food. I did earn my :) for water though.

DAY 7 of Boot Camp
B: 1 cup of strawberries - 6.6 carbs
L: Italian Salad - ?
S: ??
D: Leftover Chicken Parmesean
Curves: After work!
Water: 8 to 10 glasses
Vitamins: Just took them :)

Time to get back to the grind and refocus. I let myself slip this weekend and that is not going to make that tankini fit any better.
~Amanda

[sarahsmom73]

Yard work is a postive!!! Keep on the positives!!!! :flower: You are doing great!

[lulu201]

Amanda, you're going to do this today! You're going to live a healthy lifestyle because it's the right thing for YOU! Go for it and make it happen! :cheer2:

Erin

[septbride2002]

Recap for yesterday:
B: 1 cup strawberries - 6.6 carbs
L: Salad and some crab meat - 5 carbs
S: Mini Twix - 10 carbs
D: Chicken Parmesean and low carb noodles - 7 carbs
S: Summer Sausage and cheese - 7 carbs
Total: 35.6 carbs :)
Curves :)
Water 8/8 :)
Vitmains :)

Lots of smiles!

Todays plan:
B: egg, cheese, and sausage - 2.5 carbs
L: Chevys - Quesdilla and Chili Con Queso w/Chips
D: ??
Exercise: skip
Vitamins: Taken :)
Water - 3/8


~Amanda

edit 5:30
remember what I said about good bad days and bad bad days. Well today was a REALLY bad bad day. I got beat up and down from 8 a.m. to 5p.m. I took my assistant out ot lunch at Chevys since she has been such a sport lately - and I want to be a nice person to work for. I decided to skip Curves in order to come home and lick my wounds and get some TLC. I'll make it up though!
~Amanda

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

Congrats on completing the 5 days of exercise. you are on fire Amanda. Congrats on the weighin. You are losing a ton of fat ans building major muscle. keep up the great work.

Beth

[sarahsmom73]

:grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: To you!!

I am so sorry you have had such a rough time lately!!! We are here for you! :flower:

[wilderness01]

Congrats on your measurements Amanda. You are doing great and will look great in your swimsuit. I just got back from a warm, sunny week in Naples and wore swimsuits for a week. It is a great motivator to stay OP having to wear summer clothes, i.e. shorts, smaller shirts, swimsuits, etc. It felt great to actually have my shorts fit better than they did on our December trip. It will feel great for you too on that cruise. :flower:

Sorry that work was hard for you. I hope today is a better day.

[septbride2002]

Can I just remove yesterday from the calendar? Food wise it was definately a :badpc: kind of day. I did however earn:
:) Vitamns
:) Water 8/8

I'll need to make up that workout I missed to be sure I get in my 5 workouts this week. I'll either go to Curves on Friday or take a long walk on Sunday. DH and I are going to the grocery store - again tonight to get some items for dinners. I bought meats (hamburger, chicken) but didn't actually get anything to cook them with. I'll be skimming recipies today to find some items.

B: Coffee and 2 eggs w/Cheese - 8 carbs
L: Either Turkey and cheese roll-ups or leftover chicken parmesean and vegetables. < 8 carbs
D: Chicken - not sure how I'll make it or what my side dishes will be but dang it - it will be low carb!!!
Exercise: Curves after work
Water: 8 to 10 glasses
Vitamins: I'll take them as soon as I get to work.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Hang in there, dear Amanda! You are a WISH princess: and no one can take that away! Hold your head high and smile, knowing that you're doing the best you can and that it is good enough. :sunny:

I hope today is a better day for you. I'm sending :wizard: and :goodvibes and :sunny: and an extra :hug: to help you through.

:daisy: :daisy: :daisy:

[sarahsmom73]

I like that idea! :flower: So my vote is YES!!!

[pearlieq]

Sorry you had such a bad day! I hope things get better soon! :goodvibes

Bravo to you for recommitting and keeping your eyes on the prize!! :cool1:

[DoeWDW]

I'm sending an extra afternoon :hug: to help you through your day!

[septbride2002]

Vitamins :)
Exercise :)
Water 6/8 - still time to do this :)
Low carb products - none today
Food: 45/35 :(

~Amanda

[sarahsmom73]

Don't beat yourself up! Look Forward! you are doing great!! :cheer2:

[lulu201]

Good morning, Amanda! I'm spreading a little :sunny: for your day here in your journal. Amanda, we know that this road of healthy living is not without its bumps. We know that we can never be perfect. We know that it's not about that. . .it's about always trying again, never giving up, always expecting the best for ourselves. So what's a bad food day in the great scheme of things? Just a blip on the radar! You're moving on, girl, to a new day and to new and wonderful possibilities for yourself. :moped:

Love,
Erin

[DoeWDW]

New day = fresh start, dear Amanda! Don't look back, OK? We can both have a good day today! ::yes:: I'll be right beside you. :cool1: :cool1:

[septbride2002]

:flower: Happy Thursday! :flower: Only one day till Friday and then the weekend :cloud9: I'm trying to cheer myself up a little bit. Obviously I went over in carb count yesterday so I have a request:

PEOPLE IN MY OFFICE, IF YOU BUY GIRL SCOUT COOKIES PLEASE TAKE THEM HOME WITH YOU!!! DO NOT, I REPEAT DO NOT LEAVE THEM OPEN ON YOUR DESK WITH THE OFFER THAT THEY ARE FOR EVERYONE. GIRL SCOUT COOKIES ARE LIKE DRUGS, ONE SEEMS HARMLESS BUT THEN YOU CAN'T SEEM TO STOP. PLEASE TAKE THE COOKIES HOME TO YOUR CHILDREN WHO HAVE THE METABOLISM TO BURN THEM. THANK YOU.

the girl scout cookies is what did me in yesterrday - otherwise my meals and everything would have kept me within points. So objective #1 today is to avoid the dang cookies!

B:small apple w/natural peanut butter: 17.5 carbs - YIKES! Didn't think it would be that high.
L: Tuna Salad - 2 carbs
S: 2 swiss cheese and chicken roll-ups - 4 carbs
D: Either Chicken Wings or a Chicken Salad <6 carbs
Total: 35 carbs or less
Water: 8 to 10 glasses
Exercise: Curves after work.
vitamins: taking them now! :)

~Amanda

[pettyone]

PEOPLE IN MY OFFICE, IF YOU BUY GIRL SCOUT COOKIES PLEASE TAKE THEM HOME WITH YOU!!! DO NOT, I REPEAT DO NOT LEAVE THEM OPEN ON YOUR DESK WITH THE OFFER THAT THEY ARE FOR EVERYONE. GIRL SCOUT COOKIES ARE LIKE DRUGS, ONE SEEMS HARMLESS BUT THEN YOU CAN'T SEEM TO STOP. PLEASE TAKE THE COOKIES HOME TO YOUR CHILDREN WHO HAVE THE METABOLISM TO BURN THEM. THANK YOU.



AMEN...I posted this on our bulletin board here at work!!!

[DoeWDW]

Amanda, I know the apple w/ natural PB sounds like a lot of carbs but realistically, those carbs are NOT the same as 17.5 carbs of cookies or rice. The apple has lots of fiber (2 - 3 grams) and the PB has lots of the good fats to slow absorption of the carbs. You won't get elevated blood sugar from this like you would from cookies or rice.

All carbs aren't created equal. When you're eating these types of good carbs, balanced with fiber and protein and healthy fats to slow absorption, you can eat 17.5 carbs for breakfast. It sure is a nice change from eggs :) .

[septbride2002]

AMEN...I posted this on our bulletin board here at work!!!


NO YOU DIDN'T!!! :rotfl:

[sarahsmom73]

Happy Friday Amanda!!! :flower:

It's about time people post signs like that!!! Maybe I should post it in the teachers lounge!!!

[septbride2002]

Well I was doing great yesterday till dinner and then :guilty:
Water 8/8 :)
Vitamins :)
Exercise - skipped it but still have 3 days this week to exercise
Food - :guilty:

I just can't seem to hold it together when it comes to food. I am so easily tempted to eat things that are not on plan. I might need to do some reflection on that.

Today:
Water: 8 to 10 glasses
Vitamins: :)
Exercise: I have a date with Curves
Food: I'm working without a plan today :rolleyes1

~Amanda

[toystoryduo]

Hi Amanda,

I'm sorry about the stress you are having at work! I agree with Doe: Hold your head high because you are a WISH princess: !

I'm having trouble with the eating thing too. I've been on South Beach for almost two weeks and I have had little cheats here and there, but once I go on Phase 2 and start adding carbs back in, I hope I don't go overboard. I had a few Doritos yesterday and it took all of the self control I have to not eat the entire bag. It was so hard!

Hang in there girl! You are an amazing woman and you will get through this! Remember, it's Friday and there's a party going on in Doe's journal. :cool1: Stop by and have a drink with us, okay? :grouphug:

Take care, sweetie! :grouphug:

[DoeWDW]

Dear Amanda, I know how you're feeling. Self-control???? What's that? :confused3 I've realized that it's nearly impossible for me to stay on plan when I'm stressed AND I don't have the healthy food made & ready to eat. You asked last week why I was having chicken waldorf salad for breakfast and lunch 2 days in a row - it was because I was stressed and that was the only healthy food around. :teeth:

Sounds like you're having a similar problem. :hug: I'm going to use this weekend to set myself up for success next week. I'm going to make as much of my food as possible ahead of time so all I have to do is heat it up or grab it out of the fridge. Last night, when there wasn't anything low-carb in sight, it was way too easy to call out for naughty food. ::yes::

Hang in there, sweetie! We can do this. We'll just need to put in a little extra time on the weekend to make our weeks go smoother.

Hope you have a good day! :sunny:

[lulu201]

Hi, Amanda. Just stopping by to say hi and see how you're doing. Sounds like it's been hard to manage food and be stressed. I have that same problem. I think what's helped me this week is that I've kind of broadened my scope a bit. . .I'm thinking about points, but not kicking myself if I go overboard a little. Maybe if you think "lo-carb" but don't worry if it's 35 or 55, it'll give you enough flexibility that you keep eating healthy and avoid an "all or nothing" binge. Just a thought. . .

Have a nice, relaxing weekend, Amanda. Leave your work stress at the office if you can.

Hugs,
Erin

[septbride2002]

Thanks Doe, toystory, and Erin for stopping by. I'm going to skip Curves tonight. I know this is not smart but in all honesty I do not have the will to go. I just want to go home and go to bed. I"m thinking TOM is well on it's way. So I am going to give myself some TLC this weekend and start fresh on Monday. That still gives me 2 solid weeks before I'm in school 3 nights a week. During that time I'll be doing as much exercise as possible - probably Mon, Fri, and Saturday mornings.

~Amanda

[sarahsmom73]

:grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: Baby Steps!

[lulu201]

Good morning, Amanda. :sunny: and :hug: for your new day. Whatever good things you can do for yourself today, Amanda, will be gifts you give to yourself. Splurge on some cool water, some good exercise, and healthy food. You're worth it!

Erin

[DoeWDW]

:sunny: Good morning, dear Amanda! :sunny:

I see you're feeling the pressures of your expectations vs. reality.
I've been walking that same path lately. :cool1: :cool1:

Let's move forward in a positive light, congratulating ourselves on the things we do for ourselves and others. We don't need to be perfect - that's not how life was meant to be. We are human and we do the best we can. Read my journal entry for the lecture I gave myself this morning on talking to myself the way I would talk to a close friend. You can do that too. ::yes::

I hope you have a day filled with :love: and :sunny: and :banana: (joy).

[septbride2002]

This is going to be a LONG post.

So I've been doing some self reflection after I completely fell apart on everything thursday night. Here is my issue: I don't like to admitt that anything is wrong. I don't like people to know that I am worried and watching my weight. Half the time when I start a new diet I don't tell anyone and I try to be sneaky about it. So when I am out with friends or family I tend to let myself eat whatever they are eating for fear they will ask me if I am dieting or watching what I eat. I am the same way with money - I will have very little in the bank but will offer to buy someone's lunch. I remember growing up being embarassed and ashamed of my parents bickering over how many dolllars they had to spend. Or listening to my mom berate herself over the way that she looked. I was actually quite skinny as a kid, when I hit my freshman year in high school I got ****s - and gained some weight like any normal teenage. I was a freaking size 5/7 and my Mom started in on me then about watching what I eat and not wanting to be fat. So I started hiding what I was eating and talking bad to myself. This is a cycle that I have yet to break.

When I look in the mirror I don't feel fat. I have a strange body type with a high waist line but I've learned to dress to hide that. However when ever I see a picture of myself I freak out. Do I really look like that??? My husband of course thinks I look great but I always feel like I have to ask, "How do I look in this?" in order to get a compliment. I never walk in a room and him say, "That looks great on you." or "Wow! You look amazing." I feel like I have to fish for compliments which then you tend to believe even less that they are true.

So what do you do about it all? Obviously I still have baggage from childhood and I am still needing affirmations from others that I look good.

Today I am going to work my plan. I'm going to get through today and then I am going to worry about tomorrow.

B: 1 slice of WW bread and Natural Peanut butter - 11 carbs
L: Leftover Cornbeef and some broccoli - 5 carbs
S: Veggies and dip - 2 carbs
D: Low carb Hamburger Helper - ?
S: ?
Exercise: Curves after work
Water: 8 to 10 glasses
Vitamins: taking them at lunch.

~Amanda

[sharoncity]

Those are some tough issues Amanda. Are you not telling people you are low carbing because you are afraid you won't lose weight and then they will talk about you? Are you hiding it so that secretly you have a reason to go off plan???Make sure your not telling is not for the wrong reasons. I have had to struggle with that as well.

As for the compliments from DH, TALK to him!!!!! Tell him what you wrote here. That he should comment on his own once in awhile because it means more. He won't know how you feel unless you tell him. And DH's can be wonderful about these things if we would just tell them what we need/want! :blush:

Get back OP Amanda. Go to Curves, eat OP and you will start to feel better about yourself. One day at a time and before you know it, you'll have a streak going!!! Then you will feel even better. You know the cycle, but sometimes it is just difficult to get going! :moped: But we are all here, :cheer2: for you!!! You CAN do it Amanda!! :banana:

Have a great Monday. I hope it is filled with :sunny: !

TTFN- Sharon

[septbride2002]

Those are some tough issues Amanda. Are you not telling people you are low carbing because you are afraid you won't lose weight and then they will talk about you? Are you hiding it so that secretly you have a reason to go off plan???Make sure your not telling is not for the wrong reasons. I have had to struggle with that as well.

As for the compliments from DH, TALK to him!!!!! Tell him what you wrote here. That he should comment on his own once in awhile because it means more. He won't know how you feel unless you tell him. And DH's can be wonderful about these things if we would just tell them what we need/want! :blush:

Get back OP Amanda. Go to Curves, eat OP and you will start to feel better about yourself. One day at a time and before you know it, you'll have a streak going!!! Then you will feel even better. You know the cycle, but sometimes it is just difficult to get going! :moped: But we are all here, :cheer2: for you!!! You CAN do it Amanda!! :banana:

Have a great Monday. I hope it is filled with :sunny: !

TTFN- Sharon

Sharon,
I have talked to DH about it. How I feel like I have to fish for compliments from him. He always says he will work on it and then the time comes where I get dressed up for something and then - nothing. We actually got in a fight one time before going out because I kept asking, "Do I look okay?" "Should I maybe change?" He kept saying no you look "fine" :guilty: About the 5th time I asked he did that aggravated sigh and I got so mad and yelled at him. "OBVIOUSLY I don't feel comfortable in this outfit and I am worried about how I look! Instead of getting aggravated about it why not tell me I look beautiful, gorgeaous, skinny - come up with a real compliment instead of FINE!" and then I went and changed clothes. I just don't think he is good at the complimenting. I try to tell myself it is because he thinks I always look good ;) but deep down - I don't believe it. Of course I try not to bring this up alot because sometimes you have to pick your battles :p .

I hide my dieting because I don't want people to know. I don't want them to say anything negative about the diet I've chosen, I don't want to have them looking at what I am eating. I don't want them to think I have a weight issue - because as long as I don't acknowledge it then maybe they don't know. stupid - yes.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

I don't have any insights or wisdom at the moment but I've got a friendly shoulder to cry on and tons of :hug: :hug: :hug: for you. Sometimes we just get frustrated and we need a good cry before we're ready to move on.

Keep in mind that these sad feelings are sometimes a result of our hormones making a minor issue into a major anxiety. I don't mean to minimize how you're feeling but I want to mention that I often notice that I get these kinds of feelings more right before TOM.

I'll keep you in my prayers, as always.

:hug: and :love:

[sharoncity]

:hug: :hug: and one more :hug: Amanda! DH's - what CAN we do with them???!!!! My DH still sees me as the 17 yo I was when we started dating. I absolutely LOVE him for that :p , but I have to remind him sometimes that I am no longer 17! :blush: I can't wear that string bikini I wore on spring break when I was 20, ya know?! :rotfl:

Hang in there Amanda! We all have days like this and they will pass, right?!

TTFN- Sharon :sunny:

[sarahsmom73]

:grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: to you Amanda! I am so sorry you are having a rough time. I think I have gotten to the point that I am very honest with people. When I first was diagnosed with depression a few weeks ago, I was mortified and then I decided to be proactive. I don't care if people know! This is something at this point in time I can not control without medication. It can happen to anyone.

You have have to do what is right for you. You have nothing to be embarrased about. You are working towards a healthy life and helathy habits take time. Who care what others think! Do it for yourself! :hug: :hug:

[DoeWDW]

I've had a thought for you, dear Amanda. When you're out with friends and don't want to eat carby stuff, you can always use the "queasy tummy" excuse for not overindulging. A little white lie? Yes, but there are times when it's easier than rehashing and defending the whole "low carb" choice. I've been there and it isn't much fun.

I hope you're feeling better today. I saw you in January and thought you looked wonderful! DHs just aren't programmed to notice these things. Maybe you should start leaving Post-It notes on the bathroom mirror, like "Today would be a good day to compliment Amanda". Please know that it isn't that he finds you unattractive - it's just that he needs to be reminded OFTEN of how important it is for you to hear him say it. It's a lot like training a child to keep their room clean - a couple sincere talks won't do it - ya gotta work on it for 18 solid years by gentle reminders and by example and by the occasional yelling fit. :teeth:

Today is a bright and beautiful day in PA, and hopefully the weather is just as nice in MO. Spring is right around the corner, I just know it! Brighten up your workstation with a splash of color! A new picture or a new plant or even a hot pink pen can help you feel better.

:hug:

[toystoryduo]

Dear Amanda,

I am sending some :hug: :hug: your way. I hope you are feeling much better today, sweetie.

I was thinking about your post last night and I realized how much what happens to us in our childhood affects our adult lives. I know when I was growing up, I had a situation similar to yours. Several members of my extended family would say things like, "You don't want to grow up being fat like _______. " (Whichever relative was chosen to be picked on about their weight. :rolleyes: ) I can't even tell you how many times I heard that from different people growing up! Well, I had two kids, gained the weight and now some of those same relatives are saying, "I told you so, Tracy." It is very hard to deal with and very hard to hear. :( I try to remember that no matter what weight I am at, my DH loves me, my kids love me and God loves me.

Amanda, I may have never met you in person, but from your posts, I know that you are a kind and caring person with a great sense of humor! You may be struggling with some "bumps" in the road right now, but you are a strong woman and I know that you will get over those bumps and make your goals. :cheer2: You CAN do it Amanda! :cheer2:

I hope you have a wonderful day filled with :sunny: and :love: ! Please know that we are all here for you and that we are :cheer2: you on to meet your goals! :grouphug:

Take good care of you! :grouphug:

[septbride2002]

Hello. Thanks Tracy for the nice words in my journal. :) :hug:

Okay - so after a really long talk with DH last and some PM-ing with Doe I have come to the conclusion that Boot Camp is not for me. :headache: The pressure and expectations that I have put on myself are driving me crazy. My stress level since February 28th has been through the roof. And I can't continue to do it. I've become sneaky with food, hiding my eating, which is extremely stressful. I think about food, what I can eat, what I can't eat, when I'm going to eat, how much I am going to eat constantly. This is no way to live.

I also need to realize that what I see in the mirror is not a fat woman. It is an average woman. It is a strong woman. I will never be 135 lbs, I will never wear belly baring shirts, I will never own a size 8 pair of jeans - and ya know what - it will still all be okay. I don't have to be that, I just have to be me.

So my journal title is going to change again. I haven't thought of any names yet so I'm open to suggestion. My focus for now is going to be on:

Self-esteem
Exercise - I'll still be going to Curves 3 to 4 times a week
Water - :drinking:
and that is it. Because for right now I think that is all I can handle.

A big part of me feels like a failure, that I'm throwing in the towel. I'm trying to ignore that part of me :crazy: and to realize that I'm beautiful just the way I am .

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Yes, Amanda, you ARE throwing in the towel! You are being true to yourself and assessing what's working and what isn't. You are throwing in the towel on those expectations that are creating an unhealthy mindset and environment for you.

If that's failure, sign me up!! I think it sounds like success though. I'm proud of you because you're brave enough to face that "negative self talk" side of yourself and give it a big ole raspberry. Bravo!!

:hug:

[Strings]

:grouphug: Amanda,

You have been under tremendous stress lately. I think you are doing the right thing. I know that I went through a period when I was sneaking food. that was when I realized I needed to make a change. WISH is about being healthy. Building your self esteem and exercising are two instumental things in that. I am proud of your for focusing on what you can accomplish right now.

:grouphug:
Beth

[sarahsmom73]

You are not a failure! You said it yourself. You are a strong, healthy woman! You are doing a great job! Keep your attitude positive, teach each day at a time and do the things that make you happy! :grouphug: We are here every step of the way! :grouphug:

[wilderness01]

I'm sorry you have been feeling bad lately. I really try to think that life is full of journeys, inclusive of ups and downs. It is impossible to always been on track all the time. That isn't truly life. Right now you are in a valley but before long you will be on a peak once more. Wow I am profound early in the am huh? ;) You can't beat yourself up for something that isn't working for you. I truly think that this journey is about what is right for you. So this isn't working this week, perhaps it will work in a few weeks or it won't work at all. Whatever you decide you will be ok. There is nothing set in stone what is right or wrong for everyone every second of every day. I also think everything in moderation is ok. To live totally low carb/non carb forever isn't realistic. If you can live relatively low carb (we all know white sugar/flour isn't the healthiest for us) for most of the week, eat healthy foods, exercise, drink water and feel good about yourself than you are on the "right" track. No one is perfect Amanda and it is unrealistic to expect that of yourself. I hope you can find a happy medium. Take care. :goodvibes

[DoeWDW]

I'm popping in early this morning to send you :goodvibes and :sunny: and a :hug: for your day, dear Amanda.

I hope this morning is looking bright for you. You're surrounded by people who love you and will support you, wherever this journey leads. :grouphug:

Love ya! :love:

[septbride2002]

Hi everybody and thanks for stopping by. Wilderness you are awfully profound in the morning!!! :)

Things are looking up. My day yesterday was full of mostly healthy choices. Now that I am not limiting carbs I need to learn to keep snacks at my desk that I can eat for the afternoon lull. I'm thinking of picking up some granola or bags of popcorn to keep at my desk.

My workout at Curves was good - I could tell it had been almost a week since I've been there.

Today:

Everyone's body type is different - we can't all look like Twiggy and most of us don't want to ;)

Curves after work.

Water 8 to 10 glasses

Vitamins at home during lunch.

[lulu201]

:hug: to you, dear princess: Amanda, and congratulations on reassessing what makes sense for you and for your life right now. It seems as though we (women in general) take on so much and yet continue to strive for perfection with ourselves, too! It's funny that you, Doe, and I all have these really demanding schedules right now that are requiring so much of us and then we STILL thought it would be wise to take on super-ambitious, offer-no-excuses weight loss and exercise programs again! I think we're all benefiting from some re-thinking of all this. . .we're finding out what's really and truly "healthy." Like you said, being Twiggy isn't something that's realistic or desirable, right? You're wise to be taking some time to figure out what's right for YOU.

I've got to go, but I want you to know that I'm thinking of you and sending you lots of :goodvibes .

Take care, kiddo--
Erin

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

Cograts on the mostly healthy day. The granola and popcorn sond good. If you are craving sweets, they have those 100 calorie snacks now. They are portioned cotrolled, and they would probably help with the TOM craving.

I totally agree with your thought of the day. I crtainly don't want to look like Twiggy. You are a beautiful, intelligent, and caring woman. You might forget that occasionally, but we will remind you.

Take care,
Beth

[septbride2002]

Beth - thanks for the reminder.

Today was a pretty good day. I did pretty good food wise although I did snack a bit on my boss' low fat cheetos. :) Dinner was low carb mexican meatballs - we will just say it was interesting and leave it at that.

Water - 8 glasses gone-:)
Exercise - Curves :)
Vitamins - :)

[sarahsmom73]

:rotfl: not too keen on the meatballs, huh?! :rotfl2:

[DoeWDW]

:wave2: Just stopping by to say hi and send good thoughts your way today! :hug:

[toystoryduo]

Hi Amanda!

Hope you have a wonderful day today! :sunny:

[septbride2002]

Happy St. Patrick's Day Everyone!

I have got to teach my Dad to not call me at 9:30 at night with bad news - it makes me lose sleep! He is having to have lasick(sp?) eye surgery and instead of doing it all at once they want to do one eye at a time. Problem is that someone has to be there to take him home. My brother hasn't been at his place for a year yet and receives no vacation time. So it is up to me - problem is that I am running out of vacation time and it is only MARCH!!!! So it looks like hubby is going to have to take him to at least one of his appointments.

This on top of DH wanting to finish the basement - we have plenty of money to buy the wood but not enough to pay the contractor and he really wants to avoid putting stuff on the credit card. So what we thought we could start in March is now going to be pushed back to June. This on top of some expenses that I have coming up as well. *Sigh.*

Okay - so on to positive thougs now that all the negative ones are out.

Positive thought today: My arms are smaller - I may actually be able to wear sleaveless shirts without feeling self-conscious.

Water: 8 to 10 glasses
Vitamins: taking at lunch
Exercise: Rest day :)

We are going out to eat tonight at one of our favorite resturants. My objective is to avoid alcohol. :)

~Amanda

[sharoncity]

I hope you have a great day Amanda! :bounce: Sounds like you are less stressed and more focused now that you have adjusted your schedule. Good for you. Healthy living doesn't help too much if it stresses you out that much, ya know?! :p

Enjoy dinner tonight and time with your hubby. ;) :cloud9:

BTW, in regards to what we were discussing the other day, do you compliment your DH occassionally? I like to do that to my DH and sometimes he takes the hint and gives one back. And occassionally, he does it on his own that way too! :smooth: Just another trick I've learned over the years....

TTFN- Sharon

[DoeWDW]

Amanda, in my experience they always do LASIK on only one eye at a time. It does mean more running for you though. As far as I know, LASIK is a voluntary procedure - could your dad wait for a month or two so that he can line up drivers or until your schedule is more flexible? Just a thought...

The money thing.....sure wish it grew on trees. :rolleyes: I feel your pain. Our trip to St. Louis may have to wait until summer 2006 for the same reasons. :(

Okay, back to happier thoughts! Way to go on those shrinking arms!! All that Curve work is paying off and you're losing inches!! WOO HOO!!

[septbride2002]

Hi Doe - his procedures are not voluntary. Evidently his diabetes was very extreme and caused the blood vessells behind (in - not sure) to leak out which is causing him to not be able to see. They are going and closing the leaks. My Dad is telling me it is lazick - but it might actually be something else since he comprehension of medical terminology is about as good as mine ;)

~Amanda

[sarahsmom73]

Happy Friday Amanda! :sunny: Have a great day! :flower:

[septbride2002]

Yesterday was not a great day food wise. I hate a whole caramel chocolate bar :eek: It was good though :)
Water - 7 glasses
Vitamins :)
Avoid alcohol :)

Todays Plan:
Water 8 to 10 glasses
Exercise: Curves after work
Vitmains - at lunch

We are going out tonight for DH's work to demolition ball. It is sort of a combination of basketball and bumper cars. :scared1: It is a lot of fun though. They are also serving food - more then likely all fatty so I'll be ding my best to wade though it.

~Amanda

[wilderness01]

Hope you have a nice weekend. :flower2:

I'll keep your dad in my prayers as he goes through his procedure. That is one of the problems with diabetes, damage to the eyes. How is his circulation in his feet/legs? He needs to watch for sores, cuts, but I'm sure you already know that. That is really a tough disease to have. You are both in my thoughts. :flower:

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

I'll say some prayers for your DF. I hoep his sight can be preserved.

Have a great time tonight.
Beth

[septbride2002]

Good Morning. I have to say DH and I had a blast last night. At the last minute demolition ball was cancelled (due to not passing their health inspection :scared1: ) and his work ended up taking us out to Dave and Busters. Free drinks, food, and games! 2 friends and I just made our way down the drink list I had the following drinks:

Cosmo
Cosmo
Appletini
Lava Flow
Mango Sangria
3 Big Dog Bubblelicious

After we made our way through the list the bartender started getting "creative" with the drinks. The last one was of his own design ;) We had a great time - plus I kicked everyone's butt in the NASCAR game!

This morning I woke up - had a bottle of water and went to Curves since I didn't get to go last night. Such a great workout! I really do love it. And last night one of DH's co-workers told me I was "hot!" See, now that is the kind of compliment I need.

Today the plan is water, vitamins, exercise :) and to remain as healthy as possible. I need to go to the grocery store but probably won't get there until Monday. Which means I have no idea what we are going to have for dinner tonight.

~Amanda

[rcyannacci]

Sounds like you had a fun night! I love playing skee-ball at Dave and Busters- nostalgia for childhood, I guess!

I just got back from Curves as well- our location just ran a special and added a lot of new members. I like it more when there's lots of people to talk to...it goes by so fast!

Have a good weekend!

[septbride2002]

Sounds like you had a fun night! I love playing skee-ball at Dave and Busters- nostalgia for childhood, I guess!

I just got back from Curves as well- our location just ran a special and added a lot of new members. I like it more when there's lots of people to talk to...it goes by so fast!

Have a good weekend!

I agree! When I'm the only one on the circuit it becomes WORK!!! LOL!

Yesterday was not a good day food wise. DH and I pretty much layed around the house watching movies and not doing anything constructive. Today we get to help my Dad move for the 3rd time. So I'll be burning a lot of the calories and fat from yesterday. We got up early this morning and met friends at our coffee shop and had breakfast. It felt great to go and order what I wanted without feeling guilty about it. I was able to just enjoy the morning without thinking - okay so now I have to make sure I walk 4 miles, or I really shouldn't have ordered this. I was able just to :hyper2:

~Amanda

[lulu201]

:hug: Good morning, Amanda. Just stopping by to say hello and let you know that I'm thinking about you today. I'm glad you had a nice breakfast and time out with friends. Sounds like life is good. :flower3: Glad you and DH took yesterday to kick back since you have a full day today.

Erin

[septbride2002]

Good Morning Everyone! What a crazy week I have ahead of me. Today is going to be a fly by the seat of your pants kind of day. I'm going to run to the grocery store after work, eat something quick and then run to Curves for a workout. I'm hoping I'll be home from Curves by 8pm so I can watch "24" tonight with DH. Our TIVO is broken :( so we actually have to home on time!!!!

Water - 8 to 10 glasses
Exercise - Curves
Vitamns - at lunch

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Sounds like another full and busy day for you, dear Amanda! After all that running around today, please make sure you go to bed at a decent hour and get lots of rejuvenating sleep tonight. :hug:

[toystoryduo]

I hope you have a wonderful day today, Amanda! :sunny:

[pettyone]

:wave:

Just stopping by to say hi!!!

[septbride2002]

I took Doe's advice last night and enjoyed a nice long bubble bath after Curves. :) Sorry my post have been so short lately I've been going through some family issues and I've been majorly distracted.

It feels so great to have a variety of food in the house again. It is funny for the last year I've been training myself to shop the perimeter of the store that now I forget to go down the other aisles. I meant to get some oatmeal last night and didn't realize that I forgot about it till I got home. :p I just walked right pass the aisle! Some things I did pick up that I've been missing is flavored yogurt, flavored cream for coffee (vanilla carmel - yum), Tortellini, bannanas, grapes, white bread ;), breaded fish fillets, and popcorn. I will just have to watch everything in some moderation and not go overboard. There was more foods I wanted to buy but I didn't want to overdue it.

Exercise: Curves after work
Water: 8 glasses (I only got in 2 yesterday)
Vitamins: At lunch
Food: B: bannana and yogurt, L: Leftover Tuna Casserole, S: Popcorn, D: Either Fish fillets and veggies OR Turkey Pot Pie.

~Amanda

[kris1973]

Your doing so great keep up the good work. I can not even imagine training myself to stay away from the middle of the store for a whole year. You must be very strong. Your cruise is getting so close I know your just gonna love it. My DH and I went in sept 2003 and we still curse every time we see a cruise commercial on tv. We cant wait to go back. Wanna trade dates???? :rotfl2:

Kristin

[lulu201]

Hey, Amanda. I'm loving the sound of that bubble bath after Curves! :cloud9: Take some time to care for yourself today--especially 'cause you're dealing with family "stuff."

Love,
Erin

[Strings]

Hi amanda,

You do realize that all the things you listed as your treats are actually pretty healthy. No Cadbury Caramel eggs anywhere on that list.

I am glad that you are enjoying your Curves workouts. I hope all the family stuff works out.

Take care,
Beth

[septbride2002]

That is because I like the original Cadbury Creme Eggs! I did have one the other day but I try not to look at them as I walk through the store ;)

~Amanda

[sarahsmom73]

Sorry I ahavn't gotten to your journal! I am very proud of the stance you are taking with food! Way to go! :cool1:

[DoeWDW]

I had to laugh about your store trip - I shop the perimeter too! It's so easy to just bypass all those aisles. I'll be thinking of you as I make a quick store trip tonight. All things in moderation - yes, even Cadbury creme eggs! :p

I'll keep you in my prayers, as always, as you deal with the family stuff. :hug: for you, sweetie.

Your bubble bath was a fabulous idea! Good for you for nurturing yourself! :cheer2:

Have a great day, princess: Amanda!

[septbride2002]

Good Morning! Yesterday was a good day - the first good day I've had in a long time. Felt good - and then of course I realized that I let a check bounce. Oh well, all good things come to an end. :rolleyes:

Recap for yesterday:
Water 6glasses/8
vitamins :)
Curves :)
Food - it was okay.

Todays Plan:
Water 8 to 10 glasses
Vitamins - I forgot them at home so I'll probably take them right before dinner
Exercise: Rest da
Food: b: bannana and yogurt, l: Turkey and Cheese Sandwich, S: Pria Bar, D: Crispy Chicken, and whatever else SIL serves.

~Amanda

[kris1973]

Your doing great .....what is one cadbury egg. I am convinsed the devil created them to make us suffer like god did durring easter :rotfl2:

Your cruise is right around the corner are you starting to freak out yet? I think I would have all the bags packed hehe.

Have a great one

Kristin

[lulu201]

Just stopping over to say hi. If you've got any more of those Cadbury eggs, toss one over my way! :p

Erin

[pearlieq]

Hey, quick question for you...

I saw the recipe for the muffins you posted in Gail's journal and they sound really good. Do you use the big can of crushed pineapple or the little can?

Thanks!

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

I just wanted to wish you a great weekend and a Happy Easter.

Take cre,
Beth

[lulu201]

:flower: Happy Easter, princess: Amanda. :flower:

Love,
Erin

[septbride2002]

I NEED WATER!!!! Yesterday I only drank 1 glass of water and I can feel the bloat already. I'll be chugging the stuff today to try and flush my system. My Dad's surgery went well yesterday and we were even able to move more of his stuff from his apartment. I counted this as exercise since there was a lot of squatting and lifting and my muscles are sore!!! So no Curves for me yesterday!

Plan today:
WATER - 10 glasses is the goal!
Vitamins -taking them at lunch
Exercise: Rest Day - Curves is closed
Food: B: bannana and yogurt, L: Tuna Salad, D: Pizza and Salad.

~Amanda

[pettyone]

Amanda--

Stopping in to wish you a Happy Easter weekend!!! Hope you enjoy!!

[toystoryduo]

Have a Happy Easter, Amanda! :flower:

[sarahsmom73]

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and a Happy Easter! :flower:

[septbride2002]

Yesterday I got in about 9 glasses of water - I was going to the bathroom ALOT! :) Food was "good" vitamins were taken - all and all a good day. I was planning on going to Curves today but since I get the pleasure (please note sarcasm) of helping my Dad clean his old apartment today I think I will pass on it and spend the morning in my jammies. I'll be on my water kick again today. Not sure on food this is what I'm thinking:
B: coffee and French Toast - yummy. L: Probably a turkey sandwich on my way to Dads. D: Day was saying Applebees-I think I'll order off the WW menu.

~Amanda

[sarahsmom73]

I hope yopu have a great weekend and Easter Amanda! :flower:

[septbride2002]

Good Morning! Man I ate a lot of chocolate yesterday! I also drank a lot of water to combat the chocolate - plus I'll be heading into Curves soon! I went clothes shopping on Saturday and was able to buy everything in a size 12 - which makes me very happy! :) I bought the cutest skirt - now I just need to find a top that matches.

Plan for today - avoid the rest of the chocolate here in the house :rolleyes: like that will happen! WATER, WATER, WATER! And Exercise!

Water - 8 glasses minimum
Vitamins - take them w/breakfast
Exercise - Going to Curves
Food: B: ?? L: Sandwiches or something else D: Pizza!!!

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

WOO HOO!!! Amanda's in 12s!!!!!

Now I'm bummed because I had to buy 14s!! You've given me a reason to work hard - envy! :teeth:

Glad to hear you found cute clothes! Shopping can be such a joy when you find stuff that makes you feel pretty. ::yes::

Have a great Monday, dear princess: Amanda!

[sarahsmom73]

Congrats on the new clothes!!! Doesn't it make you feel great?! :cool1:

[rcyannacci]

That's so cool! I haven't been a size 12 since college, but I'm working my way back. :) You must be stocking up for the cruise!

I went shopping last week, but didn't buy anything. I've gone down one size in most of my regular stores, but I want to wait until some of the prices go down on the new spring stuff before I start buying.

[lulu201]

Hey, Amanda. I'm glad to hear you found some new clothes that you like. . .it's always fun to put on Spring things, don't you think?

Have a great day! :sunny:
Erin

[sarahsmom73]

Good morning Amanda! Hope you have a wonderful day! :flower:

[septbride2002]

Good Morning everyone! I'm glad I had the day off yesterday - I needed it! DH and I have joined the 20th century and got cell phones. Lord help us! :) My Curves workout was a lot of fun and I got the house clean enough that I don't feel anxious when I walk through it. All very good!

Plan today:
Water: 8 glasses (Yesterday I only got in 6)
Vitmains
Exercise: Rest Day
Food: b: yogurt and bannana, l: Chicken Ala Amanda, d: Turkey Sandwich

I start some classes this week that are at night. 6 to 10 - :earseek: so my dinners will be sort of blah. Tomorrow morning I am going to try and get up at 6a.m. to go workout at Curves and then come home, shower, and go to work. Pray for me.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Of course I'll pray for you, as I do daily. :hug:

Best wishes for your classes. You are a smart cookie - I'm sure you'll do just great! ::yes::

:sunny: :sunny: :sunny: for your day, dear Amanda!

[lulu201]

Yes, Amanda, you're in my prayers. Take it easy and allow yourself to get used to this new schedule. Good luck on this new adventure in your life!

Erin

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

I am sending :wizard: for your crazy new schedule. I will certinly pray for you.

Take care of yourself,
Beth

[septbride2002]

Thanks for the prayers guys! I was able to get up at 6a.m. and was at Curves by 6:15a.m. - got in my workout and was home before DH left for work. :goodvibes I actually really enjoyed getting up early and going - I feel so energized now. I came home and made a pot of coffee and sort of relaxed 15 or 20 minutes before I had to jump in the shower. Spring :flower: is officially here and I am now realizing how far behind in maintanence I am. ;) I took the time over the weekend to lighten my hair a bit so I am on the blonder side. But this morning I had to paint my toe nails at work!!! Thankfully my one boss is very understanding when it comes to cosmetic neccessities. Yesterday I had to advise her on nail color for her vacation!

Class last night was good. The material is a bit boring but the instructor knows how to liven things up. I was very tired when I got home last night but DH was a peach and made sure the kitchen was cleaned up so that I wouldn't feel I needed to do it when I got home.

Plan for today:
Exercise - Curves :)
Water - 8 glasses (I got in 7.5 yesterday :rolleyes: )
Vitamins - at lunch
Food: B:2 cups of coffee, L: Either Chicken Wings or some cheesy rice and broccoli, D: Sandwich.

~Amanda

[toystoryduo]

Way to go Amanda for getting your workout in! :cheer2: Awesome job!! :cool1:

Enjoy this wonderful Spring-like day! :sunny:

[lulu201]

Hey, Amanda. I'm glad to hear that things went well at your class and that you felt energized enough to get your workout in this morning. You're becoming my role model for this week. I'm not exercising tomorrow, but when I'm hitting the treadmill on Friday (whether I like it or not!), I'll be thinking of you! Enjoy the rest of the day and tomorrow, too (I probably won't be on much tomorrow 'cause it's another long day).

Erin

[DoeWDW]

You are amazing, dear Amanda!! You did well at class last night AND got up early for exercise today! You are my hero!

Hope today goes well for you, sweetie! :hug:

[Strings]

:worship: :worship:

You did it Amanda,

You handled your late night class AND got up early to exercise. Wow! :banana:

Get some extra rest tonight.
Take care,
Beth

[wilderness01]

Hey girl I'm just checking in with you. Hope your class is going well. Have a good day. :flower:

[septbride2002]

Yesterday was a strange day. Not bad, just strange. :) Got all my smiles though for water, vitamins, and exercise so I'm happy :flower:

Plan for today:
Water - 8 glasses
Vitamins at lunch
Exercise - Rest day.

I have class again tonight. So far it hasn't been to bad but this will only be the third night ;) I'm hoping the 4 hours will move quickly tonight and I can rush home to my hubby.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

:) :) :) A Three Smilie Day for Amanda!! :) :) :)

Way to go! It's Thursday and the week is almost over. You've got a day of work and an evening of class and then you're practically to the weekend! You can handle it! ::yes::

Best wishes for a wonderful day! :hug:

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

I hope that you will have a great class this evening. What exactly is the class. Is it for work, or are you trying something new?

Take care,
Beth

[lulu201]

Hi, Amanda! How's it going? In case you haven't heard. . .IT'S FRIDAY! :flower: Hope you're partying over there on your end.

What are your plans for the weekend? You and DH going out anywhere?

Have a good day and a fantastic weekend--
Erin

[sarahsmom73]

Hey Amanda!!! Happy Friday!!

I'll add this to your journal too! Hopefully it brings a smile!

Celebrate good times, come on! (Let's celebrate)
Celebrate good times, come on! (Let's celebrate)

There's a party goin' on right here
A celebration to last throughout the years
So bring your good times, and your laughter too
We gonna celebrate your party with you :dancer: :rockband: :dancer: :rockband: :dancer: :rockband:

Hope you have a wonderful day!!! :goodvibes

[septbride2002]

Has the party already started?
:rockband:
I'm coming out so we better get this party started!
I'm coming out so we better get this party started!
Making my connection when I get to the room
Everybodys groove so set up and move........
:rockband:

I don't remember any more of the words :blush:

Class last night went by pretty quickly so my evening wasn't to bad. My food was horrible through the day:
b: yogurt and a quakers oats bar, l: garlic butter rice and chicken, d: McDonald's double cheeseburger and french frieds, s: Famous Amos Cookies.

I only got in 2 glasses of water :confused3 but I did take my vitamins :)

Plan today - I need to flush the system so I'm drinking my water! Vitamins at lunch. And Food: b: yogurt and fruit, l: boneless chicken wings with mild sauce and celery sticks w/ranch dressing. d: pizza and a movie with friends - I'm also going to either order or make a big salad.
Exercise: Going to Curves after work.

I've become very lax on my veggie intake since I decided to go off my diet portion. I need to get back in a better groove of having at least a veggie serving at lunch and dinner.

~Amanda

[sarahsmom73]

Why not!!! It's only 9:21 am, but now's is good of time as any!!! :banana:

[DoeWDW]

I'm stopping in to say hi and wish you a wonderful Monday!

:hug: and :sunny: for your day, dear Amanda!

[septbride2002]

Good Morning Everyone! I sure hope the :sunny: come out today to brighten my mood. I'm extremely tired today. I am entering the D-zone and I am feeling a little anxious. I am always very tired for at least 2 day and with the hours I'm keeping at the moment I am worried about crashing.

This weekend was great we saw lots of friends and had a great time :rotfl2: . We also got some work around the house done that desperately needed to get off our to do list. I am very proud of myself because back in September I planted tulip bulbs and they are actually growing and blooming! How about that!!!!

I'm feeling extra bloated today and I definately slacked on drinking my water this weekend. So Plan for today is:

Water - 8 glasses
Exercise: Curves after work - 3 times around the circuit (I also did this on Saturday)
Vitamins - at lunch
Food: b: yogurt and bannana, l: either leftover sesame chicken or something else? d: I have defrosted chicken breast after that I have no idea ;)

~Amanda

[rcyannacci]

I'm defrosting chicken right now too!

Good news about the bulbs...I think our dogs dug up the ones I planted. Nothing but dirt.

Have a good week!

[DoeWDW]

:sunny: Good morning, princess: Amanda! :sunny:

I hope today finds you feeling happy inside. :hug: and :sunny:

[lulu201]

Hey, Amanda. I'm just stopping by to wish a you lovely Tuesday. :flower3:

Erin

[septbride2002]

Good Morning! This will have to be fast since I am training someone again today :rolleyes:

Yesterday was a good day although I was behind on my water - I need to work on this. I did go to Curves but only went through the circuit 2 and a half times instead of the 3 I was planning on doing. I was starving when I started and really needed to eat something.

I finally went grocery shopping and now I have a lot of good and nutritious foods to choose from!

Plan today:
Water: 8 glasses
Vitamins: at lunch
Food: b: yogurt and apple, l: Leftover chicken breast and noodles, s: pretzels, d:Peanutbutter and jelly sandwich and some applesauce.
Exercise: Rest day.

~Amanda

[septbride2002]

Yesterday was a rough day. They had me training someone again which pretty much means no down time to just let your brain rest. Then class was really tough last night. DH tried to get me up to go to Curves this morning and I just rolled over and went back to sleep - I was exhausted. I still feel like I am sleep walking and I'm hoping the coffee I am drinking is going to kick in here soon and wake me up a bit.

Recap for yesterday:
Food - :)
Water - 4/8 glasses
Exercise - Rest :)
Vitamins - :)

Plan for today:
Water - 8 glasses
Exercise - Guess it will be a rest day :blush:
Vitamins - At lunch
Food: b: coffee and a bannana, s: applesauce, l: Parmesean Tuna or Tuna Salad, s: popcorn, d: Either PB&J sandwich or Turkey Sandwich, apple, and some pretzels.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

I think a rest day is a great idea!! You can't burn the candle at both ends indefinitely dear Amanda. Take a day off guilt-free! :cloud9:

Your meals look good. I hope being less strict with your carbs is making things easier for you.

Take good care of you today, princess: Amanda - you're worth it!

[pearlieq]

I hope you had a good day and were able to perk back up! :flower:

Enjoy the rest--it sounds like you need it!

[toystoryduo]

I hope today was a great day for you, Amanda. :hug: Take care!

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

I think you did the right thing this morning. Combine TOM, the extra class, extended work, and you needed the rest. You are doing great. Congrats on the tulips. Mine didn't come up this year.

Take care,
Beth

[septbride2002]

I've been trying this new thing that when I start to hear myself speak negatively about myself that I make myself stop, look around, and basically get a grip. It worked out really well this weekend when I went to a wedding - I was able to have a really great time without constantly comparing myself to someone else in the room who I thought looked better then me. It did help that the group of guys we went with all thing I am the bomb and flirt constantly with me ;)

I am finding I need to use this thought alot already this morning. I'm bloated from lack of water and an increase in salt (I've been snacking on pretzels during class), TOM is coming and I'm always a little on the heavier side during that time. And the jeans I'm wearing although from the same manufacturer and size as my other jeans - fit differenlty. By the way the other pair fit great and I bought them at the same time as these! I am trying to use the logic of - not all jeans are the same - instead of - "GOD I'M A BIG BLOATED PIG AND I SHOULD JUST HIDE UNDER THE COVERS BECAUSE I LOOK LIKE QUASIMODO! :blush:

I again missed Curves this morning - I am just extremely tired. My hope is to go Friday after work and then again on Saturday morning. Not the best plan - but it is all I've got. My water stunk yesterday with only 2 glasses! So I am making that my priority today - if I do nothing else today I will drink 8 glasses of water!

Plan:
Food: b: bannana and yogurt, l: I might have some leftover NY hot dogs and some celery. d: Turkey Sandwich w/cheese, apple. Avoid Salt!
Water: 8 glasses
Vitamins: at lunch

To answer Doe's ques the other day - yes taking time off from constantly thinking about food has lifted a weight off my shoulders. I know I couldn't do all the classes, work, life, and diet at the same time and I would have been beating myself up the whole time for failing. I have not noticed an increase in size at all since going off program and I think I owe all of that to Curves.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

I love the idea of stopping those negative thoughts dead in their tracks and consciously replacing them with positive thinking!! I think I'll try that myself.

Hang in there, Amanda! I know things are tough at the moment, but this should be a short term thing, right? Eventually your classes will end and the schedule will ease up a bit. Then you can get back to Curves on a more regular basis.

I'm sending pixie dust and strength and blessings for your day. The weekend is almost here! :sunny:

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

:hug: I hope that the whoosh fairy shows up soon. you are doing a great thing for yourself by stopping the negative self talk. I think women really need to be aware of it, and it is something that we struggle with constantly.

Have a great workout at Curves tomorrow.

Take care,
beth

[septbride2002]

I started today off in such a good mood - and then :headache: work. I swear somedays it is like dealing with children - very rich children with a lot of money.

But I am not going to let that derail me. Yesterday was a tough day, lots of negative thoughts and then a long day of work and class to boot. I managed to get through it unscathed but I did take in some comfort food. Dairy Queen Mint Chocolate Chip Blissard. It hit the spot last night after 4 hours of classes. And I think I finally got into a deep enough sleep last night that I woke up this morning feeling rested.

Today is the Cardinal's home opener and I am wearing my RED Earl of Sandwich shirt to celebrate (I don't own a Cardinal's shirt - can you believe that?) The shirt makes me happy though because I am thinking of Disney World!

Plan for today:
Food: b;yogurt and bannana, l: tuna salad, d: tacos
water: 8 glasses (I got in 6 yesterday)
Exercise: CURVES after work!!!!
Vitamins: forgot them yesterday so I need to take them today.

~Amanda

[pearlieq]

Sending :wizard: for a good day for you!

Don't the folks at work know it's Friday and they should leave you in peace! I hope it goes by quickly!

Good job getting through your extra long day yesterday! Glad to hear you had a restful night's sleep.

Have fun at Curves tonight and I hope you have a great weekend!

[septbride2002]

Okay - I've got to own the number!

I went to Curves to be measured and weighed - it was not good.
Total Inches Gained: 4.50
Total Pounds Gained: 3.40
Body Fat in pounds Gained: 2.15

Sucks. But I think this was the kick in the butt I need to start looking at what I'm eating. I've been slipping in ice cream and cakes in between all those healthy meals ;) The lady at Curves encouraged me to be a bit rougher on the machines - I did that this morning and man it was exhausting. I really felt bad about myself after the weigh in but I came home, took a shower, and put on a new outfit I just bought and started feeling better. I still look good - those pounds and inches are not going to stop me from my positive thinking.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Oh dear Amanda, I feel for you. :( I've been very careless with my food lately too. We certainly are what we eat to a certain extent.

I love the way you dealt with the disappointment though. You came home, put on a new outfit AND a new attitude. :banana: You are getting better at throwing off those negative thoughts and moving forward in a positive way! :moped:

:hug: for you, princess: Amanda! Your healthy habits will see you through!

[lulu201]

Hey, Amanda. :wave2: How are you doing? It sounds like you've got a good handle on things--you're owning the number, acknowledging that sometimes things stink, and then you're moving on. You're doing a great job of holding your own in the midst of a very hectic time. You're "burning the candle" at both ends, sweetie, and you need to treat yourself well--and sometimes a Blizzard does the trick! :p Moderate exercise, cool clear water, and your vitamins will help you, too, along with your positive :goodvibes attitude. Hang in there, Amanda!

Erin

[septbride2002]

Yesterday was a busy day! Brian and our neighbor Eric rented power rakers and went through both yards churnning up all the dead grass. Then they raked it into piles and disposed of it. I was outside pulling weeds and spraying round-up in between the cracks of the driveway and sidewalk. We had a BBQ w/my Mom and her boyfriend for lunch and sat outside all afternoon. I am definately fulfilling the New Years Resolution of getting outside more. I went on a small little shopping spree (I need shorts) and then we went out to dinner with friends. It was a pretty good and busy day.

Today is going to be even busier! LOL! I'll have little to no control over lunch or dinner but I'm going to do my best. I'll be sure to take my vitamins and drink some water (I only got in 6 glasses yesterday).

~Amanda

[septbride2002]

Got my 8 glasses of water in yesterday and I am feeling good. The bloat is gone from earlier in the weekend and I am back to feeling thin and healthy. :) I'm thinking positive - and that is more then half the battle.

Plan for today:
Water - 8 glasses or more
Vitamins - taking them at lunch
Food: b: yogurt, s: apple, l: Chicken Ala Amanda wrapped in a tortilla, d: Whatever DH wants - we are celebrating his birthday.
Exercise: Curves - Maximum output!

I am wearing the jeans that were to tight on Thursday. They are fitting much better today (I also stretched them out a little).

~Amanda

[lulu201]

I wish you were coming with us, too, princess: Amanda. Congrats on those jeans! Could you pass on the details of your stretching technique? I may use it on some of my jeans!

Erin

[toystoryduo]

Woohoo! You sound very positive and :sunny: today, Amanda! I hope you have a wonderful day and :bday: to your DH!!!

[pettyone]

Got my 8 glasses of water in yesterday and I am feeling good. The bloat is gone from earlier in the weekend and I am back to feeling thin and healthy. :) I'm thinking positive - and that is more then half the battle.

Plan for today:
Water - 8 glasses or more
Vitamins - taking them at lunch
Food: b: yogurt, s: apple, l: Chicken Ala Amanda wrapped in a tortilla, d: Whatever DH wants - we are celebrating his birthday.
Exercise: Curves - Maximum output!

I am wearing the jeans that were to tight on Thursday. They are fitting much better today (I also stretched them out a little).

~Amanda

Your plan for today looks great!!

I hope that you enjoy your workout & DH's birthday dinner!!

[DoeWDW]

:bday: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BRIAN!! :bday:

Congrats on sending the bloat fairy packin'!! I bet you are lookin' good! I also want to know the secrets of stretching jeans!

princess: Amanda, I confess that I was out checking Southwest Airlines website. Ya know, they fiy direct from St. Louis to Baltimore! :p Unfortunately they wanted $171 each way for travel this weekend. :( Know that you'll be with me in spirit every step of the way. I'll be wearing my princess: hat and thinking of you! :hug:

Hope the rest of your day is wonderful and make sure you pass happy birthday wishes to Brian from Todd & I! :sunny:

[septbride2002]

Amanda's Secret to stretching jeans:

Step 1. Put jeans on and suck in tummy to get the zipper and button done.

Step 2. Squat, try to get down as far as you can - this stretches out the thigh area and a bit in the waist. You may want to do this 3 or 4 times alternated your butt to the left and to the right.

Step 3. Inner thigh squat - stretches out the inner thigh area even further.

Step 4. Put hands between your tummy and jeans and push out your jeans as far as they will go. Do this for the sides by your obliques as well.

Step 5. Sit down on chair or bench and put your heads between your knees.

Step 6. If jeans are still to tight - take them off and stomp on them. Then go put on slightly bigger jeans ;)

Good Morning Everyone! I had a busy day yesterday after work. I went to Curves, went to dinner, came home and baked a cake, and then ate it. I had WAY to many sweets yesterday!!! I had 2 mini chocolate bars, a little ice cream (probably half cup) and a piece of the pineapple upside down cake I made for DH. Otherwise - I was pretty good! ;)

It is :umbrella: here today which makes it a little more bearable to be in my cubicle. Tonight is a long day - work and then class. But I am focused and all my clothes are starting to feel better again. I've been hiding out on the cruise boards for inspiration to stick to my tankini challenge. Plan for today:

Food: NO Sweets! b: 3 egg omelet, l: Not really sure - might be leftover chicken breast, s: apple, d: Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich, s: fruit cup
Water: 8 glasses (yesterday I had 7)
Exercise: Rest Day
Vitamins: At lunch

~Amanda

[wilderness01]

:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: Thanks for the laugh. It's funny but I have done all those things when my jeans have been too tight!:blush:

[DoeWDW]

I'll be printing these directions and posting them in my room at home - I bet DH will get a chuckle out of them!! :rotfl: I wonder if this works for my khakis too????

Thanks for brightening up my day, dear Amanda! :hug: You're sounding happy today!

You're doing a great job with your food! Back on the wagon and into that tankini, girlfriend! :cheer2:

[pettyone]

Amanda's Secret to stretching jeans:

[COLOR=Magenta]Step 1. Put jeans on and suck in tummy to get the zipper and button done.

Step 2. Squat, try to get down as far as you can - this stretches out the thigh area and a bit in the waist. You may want to do this 3 or 4 times alternated your butt to the left and to the right.


Ummm...what was that ripping noise that I heard while I completed this step??!! Oh...I've followed all of the steps...you're right! They're much more comfy now...but why am I feeling a breeze & WHY ARE ALL THESE PEOPLE LAUGHING AT ME?? Just curious...

[septbride2002]

Ummm...what was that ripping noise that I heard while I completed this step??!! Oh...I've followed all of the steps...you're right! They're much more comfy now...but why am I feeling a breeze & WHY ARE ALL THESE PEOPLE LAUGHING AT ME?? Just curious...

Um, well.....................maybe you might want to try another pair of jeans. This time don't stretch so hard. ;)


:rotfl:

~Amanda

[septbride2002]

Good Morning! Well I was able to drag my butt out of bed this morning and go to Curves. My motivation? The pizza I had at 10:00 last night. My small dinner did not cut it and by the time I got out of class I was starving. I had DH call and order a pizza so that it was there when I got home and I totally binged on it. It was a 12 inch pizza - and I ate about half of it :blush:

Bring on today - it is :umbrella: and gross here today. Not a single hint of :sunny: Usually I go home for lunch but today I decided to just stay here at work and grab something in the cafeteria. I think I'll probably get a wrap and eat half of it for lunch and save the other half for dinner tonight.

Plan today:
Food: B:Yogurt, S:Apple, L: 1/2 turkey wrap, S: whatever fruit they have in the caf. D:The rest of my wrap.
Water: 8 glasses (yesterday I got 5 in)
Vitmains: forgot them at home - might see if anyone around here has some though I can take.
Exercise: Curves :) Already done!

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

You're on a roll already this morning!! Way to go on getting that Curve-y workout in!!

Have a great day!!! :sunny:

PS Keep watching me today - I'm getting off the DIS now! ;)

[toystoryduo]

Way to go getting your workout in, Amanda! :cheer2: I was right there with you last night. DH brought home shrimp pasta from a local pizza shop that we love around 11:00 p.m. I just couldn't let it sit there could I? ;) Let's just say I will finish the leftovers today and drink lots of water today and tomorrow. :teeth:

Have a great day! :sunny:

[septbride2002]

Good Morning!

Ya know there are going to be people in your life who are going to constantly try to cut you down. Mine just happen to be in my family and I am seriously considering severing ties with them even more then I already have. I have very limited time with them now, but it seems even the little time I do spend with them is to much. It is a very confusing situation but with all the negativity in the world - I could really use a lot less of it.

Yesterday was a fairly good day. I only got in 4 cups of water, but to be honest I didn't have much to drink at all yesterday. One soda was about it. So I was down on my liquids completely. I also didn't take my vitamin until 10:00 last night. But at least I took it :)

Today's Plan:
Water - 8 glasses (I keep writing it, one day it will happen).
Vitamins - at lunch
Exercise: Rest Day :)
Food: b: yogurt and pineapple - yum!, l: chicken breast and broccoli w/cheese, s: fruit cup, d: ??? I've got $5 to get dinner.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Amanda, you are way too sweet to put up with all that negativity! ::yes:: You've got enough going on with work and classes. I say tell the family that you are just crazy busy right now and what little free time you have you'll be resting or studying. No need to make any dramatic announcement, just tell them you're busy whenever they call.

Sorry to hear you're a bit short on cash. :( Wish you were closer, so I could take you to dinner! Maybe you can get a bowl of soup from the cafeteria and heat it up in the microwave & eat it before you leave work? You can get a chicken sandwich from a fast food place, skip the fries and ask for water instead of soda - not too expensive. If you can find a pack of peanuts or trail mix in a vending machine, that can be a pretty filling snack that you can sneak during class. :p

Best wishes for a wonderful day, dear Amanda! I know you can make it! :hug:

P.S. My light is only on because I had to check on my beloved Amanda! :love: I'm leaving right now to get to work. :teeth:

[sarahsmom73]

:grouphug: Family can be tough.. Can't they?! :grouphug: Well, you will always have your WISH family!

[DoeWDW]

Try to behave this weekend, OK? I'll be thinking of you (and Brian and Susan and MeMe) tomorrow. :grouphug:

[septbride2002]

I talked to Doe and Erin last night and they had an awesome time at their half marathon! It sounds like it was very :cold: but they survived! They said the clock time was around 3:13 - but they did not know their chip times yet.

Yesterday was a beautiful day :sunny: here in St. Louis. I had my Dad come over so that we could go to the nursery together and get some flowers to plant at the house. I have 5 pots full of flowers now and two hanging plants. It was fun spending time with my Dad - just the two of us. We also bbq pork steaks and had corn on the cob and baby potatos w/thyme and rosemary. It felt good to eat a decent meal for a change! ;)

Today we are going to my cousin's house to celebrate his little boys baptism. It should be a fun day. Since I can't control food today - lord only knows what I'll be eating ;) Probably hotdogs. I'm going to try and drink more water today. Yesterday I drank mostly wine or diet soda.

Have a good day everyone!

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Dear Amanda, thank you so much for the phone call on Saturday evening. It truly was the perfect end to a perfect day. :hug: I thought of you and our experiences at Disney so often on Saturday. I felt your presence every step of the way. It was wonderful to hear your voice and to share my day with you, knowing you could truly appreciate what Erin and I had done.

I'm glad you had a great Saturday and I hope Sunday's festivities went well also. Today it's back to reality and our workweek routine. Ease into it and remember how we felt after the Disney half. We are truly stronger than we give ourselves credit for, Amanda. Face the day feeling strong and confident!

:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

[septbride2002]

Morning Everyone! Doe - I love what you posted in my journal this morning. I've been working so hard on being strong and confident. It is a daily struggle, much like dieting, but I feel the rewards are great!

I watched a great Oprah a couple of weeks ago with Jada Pinkett Smith talked about her daughter (at age 4) wanting to dress sexy. And she made the point to her daughter that she doesn't have to wear tummy bearing shirts for her daddy to find her sexy. And she doesn't have to wear short skirts in order for daddy to find her sexy. I've been applying this to myself. When I start to feel self-concious of my clothes I just remind myself - I don't have to bare my stomach for Brian to love me. I don't have to be a size 6 for Brian to love me. So far it has been working.

Todays plan:
Exercise: Curves after work.
Water: 8 glasses - I really need to do this today.
Vitamins: At Lunch
Food: b;yogurt and bannana, l:tuna salad, d:bbq chicken, noodles, broccoli and cheese.

~Amanda

7:30 edit:
Exercise :)
Water :)
Vitmains :)
Food b :), l :), s - 2 cinnamon rolls :(, d: 4 slices of pizza and a bowl of cherrios. Nothing like living like a college kid!

~Amanda

[lulu201]

Good morning, Amanda! Thanks for all the happy :goodvibes you've posted in my journal today. Do you have class after work tonight? I'm kinda thinking that you don't since Curves is on the schedule. Enjoy this exercise time that you're making for yourself--it's just for YOU!

:hug: ,
Erin

[toystoryduo]

Hope you have a wonderful day today, Amanda! :sunny:

[lulu201]

Just stopping by to wish you a good Tuesday, Amanda.

Erin :flower:

[septbride2002]

Good Morning! :sunny: It looks like it will be a very pretty day here in St. Louis. I forget how much I love spring and summer. They are really my favorite seasons!

My goal today is to break the junk food habit. I thought about going through a low-carb cleansing but that would be impossible at the moment. I don't even have eggs in the house! So instead I am just going to have to break the sugar junk food habit on my own. By very carefully planning out healthy snacks to get me over the hump. Which means taking a closer look at my menu, but I think it is worth it.

Plan today:
Exercise: Rest Day :)
Vitamins: Taking them at Lunch
Water: 8 glasses
Food:
B: yogurt (19) and bannana
L: BBQ Kielbasa, broccoli and cheese
S: Apple
D: Peanut butter and jelly sandwich, fruit cup - peaches.
S: Pretzels

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Only 18 days until your cruise!!!! :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc I'm excited for you!!

At the same time, I'm a bit concerned, too. I know you are very busy with working fulltime, taking classes most evenings, getting to Curves, preparing for your cruise. Sweetie, you are one busy gal!! You have so much going on that I'm not surprised that your food has been slipping. Face it, Amanda - we can't do it all. Maybe it's time to kick back and be realistic. I'm not talking about eating any and all carbs with total abandon, but I think one carby meal and one carby snack a day isn't unreasonable with everything else you've got going on. Yesterday was a pretty good day, foodwise, with the majority of the day being healthy food.

You are right about giving up those notions of the perfect body. Brian clearly loves you just the way you are. If you asked him, he'd probably say that he doesn't care what size you are, as long as you are healthy and happy with yourself.

Take it easy on yourself today. Be reasonable in how much you expect to get done and how "perfect" you expect to be with food.

Love ya, dear Amanda!
Doreen

P.S. I see the St. Louis half marathon has a VERY liberal pacing requirement. Since the full marathon is 2 loops of the half course and the full marathon closes in 8 hours, I'm guessing you could truly take your time during the half.

[septbride2002]

Good Morning! I did pretty good yesterday. I did indulge in a mounds mini bar - but that was it!

Today's plan:
Exercise: Rest Day
Water: 8 glasses (had 7 yesterday)
Vitamins: taking at lunch
Food:
b: 3 egg omelet w/ham, mushrooms, and green peppers l: BBQ Chicken Breast and veggie, s:?? fruit/veggie, d: Peanutbutter and Jelly sandwich, fruit cup, and pretzels.

~Amanda

[lulu201]

Just one Mounds mini-bar? That's something to celebrate! :cheer2: If you have an extra, could you send it 'round my way? :rolleyes: Oh, I forgot. . .I don't do sweets any more. Guess you'll have to eat it yourself, but remember just one! :p

Erin

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Amanda! :sunny:

It's Thursday and we're steadily workin' toward the weekend! :Pinkbounc

Hang in there during these long days! How long until your classes are over?

Try to find time to go outside and turn your face to the sun. We crave that sunshine, ya know? :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

Love ya, sweetie!

[septbride2002]

Doe I would love to get out in the :sunny: but it has been :umbrella: the last 2 days ;)

Yesterday was not good food wise, lets recap:
b: 3 egg omelet
l: bowl of honey nut cheerios and 2 chicken fajitias
s: 1 mini mounds bar
d: Peanutbutter and Jelly, bannana, fruit cup - peaches
10pm: Hardees 1/3rd lb thick burger w/bacon, french fries, and regular Dr. Pepper.

I think I was hungry yesterday!!!! All those big meals! I'm feeling it today - which mean s :drinking: as much as possible!
Vitmains :)
Exercise: Rest :)
Water: 5 glasses

Today's plan:
B: Nothing - I'm not hungry so I thought I would skip it. I'm sure I'll regret this about 10am
L: BBQ Chicken Breast and Veggies
S: bannana
D: ? I'm really tired of PBJ but there is really nothing else in the house to take with me. I might make up some tuna salad and take that.
Exercise: Rest :)
Water: 8 glasses (10 if possible)
Vitamins:At lunch

I've got a large to do list today and most of it is personal. I need to figure out my schedule for the weekend, because we have a lot to do and not a whole lot of time to do it in.

~Amanda

[septbride2002]

I was doing really good yesterday until they gave us Dilly Bars at work :flower: Recap for yesterday:
Vitmains - I can't remember if I took them or not
Water - 6 glasses
Exercise: :) Rest Day
Food: b:yogurt, l:small bbq chicken breast, broccoli and cheese, 1 wherthers original, 16 oz of skim milk. s: dilly bar, d: tuna salad and peaches fruit cup, s: bowl of cherios.

Actually looking back, I don't really have anything to be that upset about.

Exercise - I really should try to get to Curves today, although every ounce of me is wanting to come straight home, plop on the couch and veg. It has been a long and tough week. However, I also know that Curves will liven me up - so who knows what I'll end up doing. If I don't go tonight then I need to go Saturday morning. I actually enjoy going on Saturdays a little more since there are usually more people there. Then I can also workout on Sunday on my own so that I am sure to have at least some activity 3 x's this week. What do you all think?

We have a busy weekend ahead of us! Lots to do. We need haircuts, we have a confirmation party - and we are getting together Sunday afternoon for my FIL's bday.

Plan for today:
Vitamins - taking w/breakfast!
Food - no sweets! b: yogurt and fruit, l: ??? , d: ???? Did I mention grocery shopping on my to do list?
Exercise - I'm going to follow my instincts on this.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

I say give yourself a break on the exercise today. If you're that tired, you'll have a hard time working hard at Curves. I bet if you go first thing tomorrow morning you'll have the energy to really give your body a good workout! QUALITY of the workout matters too, ya know?

Best wishes for fitting everything in over the weekend. It sounds like you'll be a busy gal. Do you ever get to just relax??? You and your fluffy Grand Floridian robe need to make a date. ::yes::

Hope you have a great day! :sunny:

[lulu201]

I agree with Doreen. You're seriously in need of some Bathrobe Plans. Get out that planner and set the date TODAY! :cloud9:

Erin

[pearlieq]

It always so hard to get to Curves on a Friday night--come 5pm on Friday you feel like you should be released from all responsibilities, including working out. Saturday morning sounds like a good plan. It's a very nice way to spend the day.

Hope you have a great Friday and this :umbrella: goes away soon!

[septbride2002]

Well I took everyone's advice and skipped Curves yesterday - and I feel great about it! :) DH and I had some time to reconnect and just veg on the couch. It was wonderfully relaxing.

Today we stayed in bed watching TV for about 2 hours. I finally made myself get up and head to Curves where I had an okay workout. I really am physically beat - so I didn't push myself as hard as I normally would have tried.

Plan for today - is survival. It is another busy weekend with lots of things to do!
Vitamins: taking them now.
Exercise: Curves :)
Water: 8 glasses - 2 down so far
Food:
b;honeynut cheerios w/skim milk, l: leftover Parmesean Tuna, d: ? Not sure. We have a confirmation party this afternoon and on the way home we are going to stop at the grocery store to get stuff for tomorrow lunch w/Brian's family. I will probably pick up dinner while I'm there as well.

~Amanda

[septbride2002]

Good Morning! Well I did really good yesterday, except for water. Otherwise I stayed on program....which is really no program! :)

Today we are having Brian's family over for a family lunch. This comes with it's own twists and drama. I had to lock my 2nd bedroom door since my scrapbooking stuff is all over and my 4 year old nephew has not been taught to respect other people's things. He just wanders where ever he wants -whether he should be there or not. :sad2:

Plan for today:
Exercise: I really want to go for a 2 mile walk and do some weights. But it might just end up being weights and some light aerobics in the house.
Vitamins - taking them now :)
Water - 8 glasses
Food:
b: ham, cheese, and eggs on toast w/White chocolate Mocha coffee l; BBQ cheeseburger, potato salad d; ??? Not sure.

Our neighbor, Eric, is coming over to help Brian build some storage shelves in the basement - so I should really make something tonight for dinner for him and his wife Susan as well. Maybe we will order something ;)

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

:cool1: :cool1: :cool1: Could this be you and Susan and I walking in September??? I wanted to give you the weekend to really think about what the committment to do the Lewis & Clark half would mean. It's not just the race, you know, but all the training leading up to it. Are you sure your schedule will allow for the training? I want you to have a good experience and I promise I WILL NOT LEAVE YOUR SIDE during the race! If you're sure you want to do it and Brian's OK with it, just say the word and I'll register. How cool that it is on your birthday!! What a great way to celebrate!

I hope your family get-together went well yesterday. Best wishes for a smooth, hassle-free Monday princess: Amanda! :sunny:

[septbride2002]

Of course I want to walk with you! And I can always make time to train! :) Susan had done this half before and she said that the terrain is really easy and very flat. So that is good news! It is extremely relaxed so I probably won't push myself to keep that 15 minute pace - but I will get the training in! I am so excited!

In order to save money you are more then welcome to stay at my place - we are only 15 minutes from where the half begins. :) Or if you and Todd are coming in together I can reccommend some hotels. I am so excited now! :)

:cool1: :cheer2: :cool1: :cheer2: :cool1:

This weekend was a total loss of control food and drink wise. I did manage to get in 52 oz. of water in last night which was a good thing. It just seemed like food and drink were a bit out of my control - but that really isn't true - I let it be out of my control.

I also did not get in any exercise last night. I was so happy with the work that Brian and Eric did in the basement that I couldn't wait to start organizing! I was up and moving around though and that has to count for something!

Plan for today:
Water - 64 oz - no excuses

Exercise: I have to go get my picture taken after work so I won't make it to Curves tonight :faint: My plan is to get home around 7ish - eat a quick dinner and then go for a walk (I'm back in training after all).

Vitamins - taking them at lunch

Food: b; yogurt and bannana, l: 3 egg omelet w/cheese (I need high protein since I'll be eating dinner late), 16 oz of skim milk. s; Grapes d: I'm thinking tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

It's official. I'm registered!!

They asked which Fleet Feet store I wanted to pick my registration packet up at - I chose St. Charles. I HATE doing packet pickup on race morning. :p

DH will be traveling with me so let me know of any hotels that are close by. We love Hampton Inn but would consider others.

I feel another adventure coming on!!! :cloud9:

[pearlieq]

Good luck with your training--sounds like a really cool half!

[lulu201]

:cheer2: Go, Amanda! Go, Doreen! Go, Susan, go! :cheer2: You guys are going to have a blast! What a fun adventure you're going to have together!

Erin

[rcyannacci]

Hey! Sounds like you are having a great week!

BTW- Here's the link to that lettuce wrap recipe: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=800452

:)

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

am so excited for you. Your cruise is in less than 2 weeks. With the schedule you have been mainaining for the last few weeks, you deserve a long relaxing cruise.

Good luck with training for the 1/2. It sounds like you will have a great time.

Take care,
Beth

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, dear Amanda!! :sunny:

I hope you've got a smile on your face - you'll be cruisin' in no time!!! I'm excited and I'm not even going! :p You better take notes because we'll want to hear all about it when you get back! ::yes::

Enjoy your day!! :sunny:

PS Todd says the brewery is on his list of things to see! :p He's VERY excited about this trip!

[septbride2002]

:bounce: Doe, Brian and I are also very excited!
Beth - thanks, we can't wait for the cruise
rcyannacci - thanks for the link!

So as I layed in bed this morning waiting for DH to get out of the shower I contemplated the idea of setting myself up for disappointment. Last night I didn't exercise - it rained here, and to be completely honest I wasn't motivated. It had been a long day, and all I wanted was to Veg on the couch with hubby. I told myself - tomorrow morning I'll get up and go to Curves. Guess what - that didn't happen either.

I just need to be honest with myself - Curves isn't going to happen this week until Saturday. And that is okay. I don't need to feel bad about this, I just have to be a bit more careful about what I eat, and make sure I am drinking my water. So for the rest of the week - Curves is not going to be on my to do list.

The good news is next week I only have class one day! So my workout schedule will look like this:

4/30 - Curves
5/1 - 2 mile walk
5/2 - Curves
5/3 - Curves
5/4 - Rest Day (Class)
5/5 - Curves/Walk
5/6 - Curves before we leave for the airport! Curves opens at 6:30 in the morning and our flight doesn't leave till 12:45p.m. - so I'll have time to run there take a shower, and get to the airport.

Review for yesteday:
Food - I did okay, had a carmel javalanche with a friend.
Water - 7 glasses (just short!)
Vitmains :)

Plan for today:
Water - 64 oz. - no excuses!
Vitamins - at lunch
Food: b: yogurt, bannana, diet coke. l: bunless cheeseburger, and veggie/fruit. d: PB&J, fruit cup, pretzels.

~Amanda

[lulu201]

Hey, good going, Amanda. I think part of being a grown up (and the part that's the toughest for me :rolleyes: )is having realistic expectations about what can and can't be accomplished and then being flexible enough to change direction without the old "beat yourself up" thing. I think your choice to postpone things at Curves is wise and healthy, and that's what we're all trying to do, right? Be wise and healthy!

Have a good Tuesday and before you know it you'll be cruisin'!

Love ya,
ERin

[DoeWDW]

:sunny: Good morning, Amanda! :sunny:

I hope your day went as planned yesterday, as far as drinking your water and eating the food on your plan. You did great in knowing that your body is weary and needs a break from Curves. Bravo!! :cheer2: :cheer2:

I'm sending happy :goodvibes and a gentle :hug: your way!!

[lulu201]

Hey, Amanda. How are you doing today? You're over the hump and well into Wednesday. Just think, you're that much closer to the weekend AND to your cruise!

I hope you have a good today and treat yourself like a princess: !

:wave2: ,
Erin

[septbride2002]

Morning Everyone! Thanks Erin and Doe for stopping by. My food plan went a little awry yesterday. I was planning on having bunless cheeseburgers for lunch but when I got home I realized that DH took the rest of the cheeseburgers! Oh Well. Dinner was a McChicken Sandwich from McDonald's and about half of a medium fries. And then I came home and ate half of a chocolate easter bunny.

The good is that I did drink 64 oz of water and even had a little whoosh yesterday afternoon. But I'm pretty sure I ruined that with the chocolate yesterday. I also remembered to take my vitamin.

This morning I am feeling uncomfortable in my own skin. Everything fits, it just doesn't look good. I am trying to focus on my positive thoughts but am finding it more difficult today. I am my worse enemy in so many ways.

Plan today:
Water - 64 oz, this is very important!
Vitamins - already taken :)
Food - b: frosted mini wheats w/skim milk, l: I'm thinking eggs and cheese again, fruit cup, d: Turkey Sandwich (on low carb bread) applesauce.

Last nights class was brutal and I definately turned to food to comfort myself. Only 2 more nights of this and then I am home free. :smooth:

~Amanda

[toystoryduo]

Good morning Amanda! :sunny:

I am sending a great big :hug: your way today.

I am so excited for you! :Pinkbounc Pretty soon you'll be :boat: the high seas with ::MickeyMo and ::MinnieMo . Are you getting excited???

I hope you have a wonderful day today! :sunny:

[mking624]

Morning, Amanda!! :sunny:

I'm cheering you on for a wonderful day today...I'm confident you can make it through!!

Almost time for you cruise!! :cheer2:

[Strings]

10 days and counting.....10 days and you can have a cabana boy bring you margritas.

:hug: Amanda,

I am sorry yesterday was so brutal. I hope today was an improvement. I am so glad that your class is almost done. You can make it.
Take care,
Beth

[septbride2002]

Thanks to everyone who stopped by yesterday. The day did get better as it went on, however my eating was bad. Last night my body sat me down and said, "Okay listen. I know you've been stressed out and extra tired. but I am only giving you 2 more weeks of this type of eating behaviour - so get it out of your system now. When we get back from the cruise I need you to flush your system of all these bad carbs and habits and get back on the road of healthly living. If you don't.....well lets just say that your digestive system and I have worked out a deal." Evidently the peanut M&M's I had for dinner was the last straw. ;) I've been researching the South Beach Diet and I think I am going to try that after the cruise. I like that you can start to add in good carbs in phase 2. It keeps variety in what I am eating - and I am all for variety!

Plan for today:
Exercise: Rest day :)
Water: 8 glasses
Vitamins: at lunch
Food: b: yogurt and bannana, l: half of a chef salad (yummy!) d: Chicken Wings!!!!

Doe - it has been 5 weeks since I've had chicken wings!!!! :rotfl2:

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

You are doin' the single digit dance for your cruise!!!!! I LOVE Beth's idea - we'd like pics of a cabana boy bringing you a margarita, so we can all live vicariously through you! :teeth:

I hear you about getting back on track. Once your classes are finished and your cruise is in the past, it sounds like life will be back to it's normal routine. There may even be enough time in your day to eat right and exercise! Hang in there until then! You're doing just fine! ::yes::

Baby step through your day, taking it moment by moment, looking for the :sunny:.

:hug:

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

I think that is a great idea. You can give yourself a bit of a break from the eating right stress until after the cruise. Then it is back to business.

Single digits! I am so excited for you.

Have a great weekend,
Beth

[mking624]

*sigh* I always giggle when my body sits me down for those heart-to-heart chats!!

My parents are doing South Beach right now and they love it!! I'm not doing it myself, but occasionally my mom will email me a recipe that I make. They have some awesome recipes in their book!

[DoeWDW]

:rockband: Time to start the Friday party, Amanda!! :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

As a special favor to you, I'll steer clear of any Barry Manilow songs today! :rotfl2: I'm having a hard time thinking of any tropical or ocean themed songs though. Maybe some Jimmy Buffett??

I hope today is a good one! Take WDW Amanda with you to work! :sunny:

:hug:

[lulu201]

:banana: Amanda's dancing the single digit dance! :banana: And soon she'll be on the deck with an umbrella-drink dancing at the Sail-Away party. . .ahhhhh. :cloud9:

No more talk of diets until you come back, Amanda. Ease your way back into reality and THEN get tough on yourself. Re-entry time is important, don't forget!

Have a great Friday, though, I have to admit, I was thinking I wouldn't mind a little Barry Manilow today. . . :blush:

Erin

[septbride2002]

Good Morning Everyone! Last night was a great night - ending with 3 glasses of red wine ;)

I didn't have any junk food yesterday - amazing!

Today my plan is just to survive. I have a lot of stuff to do and I'm pushing food, water, and exercise to the back of the list. pirate: (Just seems like a pirate day!)

To do List (cause I know you are curious)
1. Study for test
2. Do a trial run of putting our luggage, and the neighbors luggage into our small SUV to see if it will all fit :rotfl:
3. Start Laundry and start putting aside things I know we will need to pack. DH and I got into a big fight about this last night. He would rather pack all at once - which I think is stupid. Because he will end up wearing something next week and then we will have to rush to do laundry so that we can pack it! Why not set it aside that way you know it is already clean and ready to be packed? AUGH! MEN!
4. Dinner - not sure what yet.


~Amanda

[mking624]

Hi Amanda!!

Have a wonderful weekend and keep on doing great!

[septbride2002]

Yesterday was a good day. We ended up going out to dinner with our neighbors to the cracker barrel ;) and then did the run through with the luggage. Miraculously it all fit!

I've already been up and to Curves this morning. I went 3 times around the circuit - I tell ya it kicked my butt a little bit but it felt good to be working out. I could really feel it in my arms muscles.

Todays plan:
Exercise :)
Vitamins :)
Water - 8 glasses (2 down so far)
Food - not going to keep track today.

To do list:
*Grocery Store
*Help with laundry (DH has already started it)
*Clean Kitchen
*Clean Guest Bathroom
*Vaccum
*Study

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

You've got lots on your to do list but you'll make it! All the pre-trip preparations just wear me out. I'm impressed that you managed to get to Curves and have a great workout! Bravo!!

Only 1 week, sweetie!!!!

[toystoryduo]

Way to go getting your workout in today! :Pinkbounc Just a few more days now.... ::MickeyMo ::MinnieMo :teeth:

[septbride2002]

I am so worn out today. I wish I could take it easy - but I really can't afford to. I am feeling completely overwhelmed with everything that I have to do. I'm giving as much as I can to DH.

Plan today:
Food - there is no plan
Water - 8 glasses or at least try (yesterday I got in 6)
Vitamins - will take those in a second :)
Exercise - 2 mile walk as long as I can get in 2 hours of studying.

~Amanda

[rcyannacci]

Hey Amanda- looks like you have a busy day ahead. Maybe you can find 10 minutes to stops, rest, and reflect. Think about sitting on the deck of that boat watching the ocean with a particularly potent frozen drink in your hand.

Laundry wars. Bender and I have them too when packing. If I left it up to him, we wouldn't pack until the midnight before we leave somewhere!

Deep breaths ;)

[mking624]

((((Amanda))))

Take out some "you time" today, ok? Even if it's just a few minutes. Don't overwhelm yourself too much...it's so important just to take at least a tiny bit of time to get rejuvinated. Taking care of you is so important so you are fully able to take care of other things. :)

[Auntmeme]

Oh the stressful pre-vacation :rolleyes: but it could be worse it could just be stressful with no vacation, right? I'm thinking of you and wishing I was going too! You'll have such a wonderful time, no awesome is the right word :teeth:

Have a marvelous Monday!

[septbride2002]

Hi Everyone! What a whirlwind weekend! I did take everyone's advice and spent some quite alone time. I took about an hour to lay in bed letting myself in and out of sleep. I did manage to get my 2 mile walk in yesterday and it felt great.

Plan today - again I've bitten off more then I can chew. It came to our attention on Saturday that the plates on my car expired that day. So we rushed around trying to get all the inspections done :rolleyes: such a waste of money since my car is a 2003. Anyway, I have to try to pick it up from the car shop today and get up to the license bureau. My Aunt from out of town is coming over for dinner, and I really want to get up to Curves. But ya know, I am aware that I cannot do it all.

I brought my study material to work and plan on looking at that during my lunch hour instead of running home like I usually do. And if I can't get to Curves after work and before my aunt gets there - then I will just modify my exercise for at home.

Plans for today:
Food - Yea right! :sad2:
Water - 8 glasses
Vitamins - will take at dinner
Execise - will see what we can do
Postive thoughts - definately!

~Amanda

[lulu201]

Ooh, Amanda, I love your positive and upbeat attitude in the midst of lots of running-around stress! Good for you! I'm sure, though, that you've got palm trees and Castaway Cay in the back of your mind. . .that could make me :teeth: , let me tell ya.

I like the change in the journal title--looks like you're headed in a healthy direction AFTER the cruise. :flower: Good luck with your studying today!

Erin

[DoeWDW]

You are rushed and things are crazy but you've still got your eye on healthy living. I also love the new journal title! ::yes:: Curves and healthy eating will be waiting for you when you get back. Just do what's reasonable today - don't make yourself crazy trying to cram too much into your day.

:hug: for you, busy girl!!

[mking624]

I love yournew journal title, Amanda!! Fun!!

You're so positive even in the midst of a lot of busyness and stress! That's awesome!! Keep your head high and pushing forward!

[Strings]

Hi Amanda,

I like the new title. Looks like you have a lot to do before the cruise. Just remember, it is all worth it. You will have a wonderful time, and then get healthy after.

Take care,
Beth

[DoeWDW]

Dear busy Amanda, did yesterday turn out well?? I hope you drank all your water and took your vitamins, since those were the 2 easiest goals to reach. Drinking your water and taking your vitamins will help your body be ready when it's time to get more rigorous about food and exercise.

Hang in there, sweetie!! :hug:

[septbride2002]

I did get my water in yesterday! But forgot the vitamins :(
Yesterday it came to my attention that I am not going to be able to work a half day on Thursday like I thought I was going to. The good news is that I will now be able to make it to Curves on Thursday - so I gave myself a rest day yesterday from exercise and my plan now is:
Tues: Curves
Wens: Rest
Thurs: Curves
Friday: AM Curves

My body is already looking better from the exercise!

Last night we had an AWESOME dinner with my Aunt and her friend Fang (she is Chinese). We went to this small Thai resturant by us and had sushi rolls, wine, and fantastic entrees! Very yummy! Brian and I will definately be going back ASAP.

Today is another busy day! I have to try and run to the license bureau on my lunch hour to get my tags renewed. Then after work I'm going to Curves and then home for dinner and studying. I think I am going to study for 2 and half hours tonight - anything over that just hurts my head ;)

Exercise: Curves
Water: 8 glasses
Vitamins: W/Dinner
Food: b: omelet, l: leftover Thai, d: ???? Not sure - something fast at the house I think. Might just be noodles and butter for all I know ;)

~Amanda

[rcyannacci]

Yum- butter and noodles! My mom used to make that with little poppy seeds thrown in!

You exercise schedule looks great- you will have so much energy for the cruise and look nice and tone!

Have a great day!

[toystoryduo]

Hi Amanda~

In just a few days, you'll be sailing with the mouse! ::MickeyMo How exciting! In the meantime, I am sending you :wizard: to help you get everything done that needs to be done before you leave. Take care, Amanda! :hug:

[septbride2002]

Today is my last day at work before vacation - which means, nothing is going to get done ;)

Tonight I have my school test so I have a very long day ahead of me. I'm looking forward to having all the testing done. I take my final test on Thursday morning. Please wish me luck that I pass it the first time and won't have to RETAKE them!

Plan for today - there is no plan. My head is not even here to think of a plan - it is already on the Disney Magic and is just waiting for my body to catch up!

~Amanda

[sharoncity]

Amanda- Have a WONDERFUL, ***MAGICAL*** vacation! :cool1:
Can't wait to hear all about it. There had better be lots of cabana boys and drinks with umbrellas in the stories! :rotfl2:
I hope it is truly special for you! "See" you when you get back! ::MickeyMo ::MinnieMo

TTFN- Sharon :sunny:

[septbride2002]

Amanda- Have a WONDERFUL, ***MAGICAL*** vacation! :cool1:
Can't wait to hear all about it. There had better be lots of cabana boys and drinks with umbrellas in the stories! :rotfl2:
I hope it is truly special for you! "See" you when you get back! ::MickeyMo ::MinnieMo

TTFN- Sharon :sunny:

I would only tell you guys this - but we are going to a bar in Key West called "Garden of Eden" it is a clothing optional bar ;) I'll be sure to let you know about the Cabana boys there! :rotfl:

~Amanda

[mking624]

I would only tell you guys this - but we are going to a bar in Key West called "Garden of Eden" it is a clothing optional bar ;) I'll be sure to let you know about the Cabana boys there! :rotfl:

~Amanda
Oh my gosh, that's a riot!! Can't wait to hear about those lovely Cabana boys... :rotfl2:

[DoeWDW]

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Sounds like your journal could start to rival Michelle's "Nakie Locker Room" stories in her journal! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

I've never been anywhere that's "clothing optional", so I'll have to live vicariously through you. I hear, though, that most of the people who go to those places have bodies that should be hidden by clothes. :rotfl: Let me know if it's true! :blush:

Best wishes for your test. I just know you'll do great. If you had gone to my high school you would have been called a "Brain"! You're very intelligent and you've got a good head on your shoulders. I have lots of confidence in you! :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

Hopefully you'll have time to post how it went before you leave for your "Magical" vacation! I wish you fair skies, calm seas, and a trip full of pixie dust! :hug:

[lulu201]

:rotfl: Oh, my gosh, I KNEW there was a reason I wanted to go to Key West!
:rotfl: Have a great time on your trip, Amanda, in case I don't get to post before you're gone.

You're going to have a fantastic time. Wear sunscreen. :teeth:

Erin

[toystoryduo]

Have a safe and wonderful vacation, Amanda!! :flower: Let us know how you like the Garden of Eden's cabana boys! :earseek: ;)

[septbride2002]

Don't ya just love learning new things about me! :)

Well guys I am happy to report that last night I passed my school test and this morning I passed my state test so I am not completely done with schools and test and will be able to apply for my realtors license! Big round of applause please!

The plan today is doing all the prevacation running around that always commences - I'll be here tomorrow and then buy-bye I'm outta here!

Someone please remind me to add sunless tanner to my breast - thanks! ;)

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

WOO HOO!!!! I KNEW YOU'D PASS!!!!

:jumping1: :jumping1: :jumping1:

Now get off the DIS and get packin', girlfriend!! You're due to :boat: away for some fun in the :sunny: !!

Have a fabulous trip, sweetie!!

:hug:

[Strings]

:cool1: CONGRTULATIONS AMANDA!! :cool1:

You did it! Now you are done with school and work. You cn sitback and enjoy your cruise without a care in the world. Have a fantastic trip. Make tons of memories, and watch out for the cabana boys.

Safe journey,
Beth