Dream Believer's Journal ~ Reaching for the Stars

[DreamBeliever]

OK ~ It's time to reach for the stars rather than chocolate.

The reality is ... I exercise (significantly) nearly every day. However, that just makes it that much easier for me to justify cheating because 'I'll just exercise it off!'

I need to change the way I look at eating. I know what the right food choices are ... I just haven't been making the right choices.

To start, I'm going to make myself a few promises. Every day I will be honest with myself and journal:

1) Food intake
2) Water intake
3) Exercise minutes
4) Mood
5) What I'm grateful for

My long term goal is to wog (walk/jog) in the 2008 WDW Half Marathon. I already have everything in place to achieve this fabulous reward. However, I want to cross the finish line looking and feeling my best.

If you wish to take this journey with me, please add your comments.

 

[lustergirl]

I would love to take the "journey" with you.

I would like to lose alot of weight myself and would be happy being a size 12 or 14, able to shop in the misses section. I just signed up for working out at Simply Fit- a curves sort of workout place but more intense. I lost 47 pounds last year but gave up exercising after I had injured my shoulder. I don't fell good about myself at all and am quite disgusted.
I have been eating less at work, choosing low calorie snacks like Special K Bars or fruit. Plus I eat Healthy Choice, Smart Ones, or whatever low calorie lunches are on sale for the week. I am drinking lots of water plus diet lipton green tea mixed berry. Green Tea is suppose to help you on a diet because of the metabolism boosting anti-oxidants built right in. Before joining the workout center I began walking during lunchtime and have even taken to catching the bus to work where it gives me an opportunity to walk even more. Conditioning yourself to walking is a key before any disney trip because I walk at least 5 miles a day while on vacation. Good Luck and I would love to hear any hints of encouragement and suggestions.

 

[DreamBeliever]

Hi Luster,

Thanks for visiting my journal. Trying to lose weight never used to be a problem for me ... until I reached 40. Now that I'm 48 and thoroughly disgusted with my weight gain, I realize I need to make better choices. It's taken me a long time, but I've recognized that my bad eating habits are standing in the way of my success. I want and deserve to live a healthy lifestyle and so do you!

Food intake: Breakfast: 2/3 cup natural cereal with soy milk. Lunch: Ham and cheese roll-up, apple, chocolate macaroon. Dinner: Talapia, green beans and more chocolate macaroons.

Water intake: 8 cups

Exercise today: 105 minutes

Mood: I was a little stressed while making decisions regarding the new roof and siding, so I called a friend and went walking. All better now.

Today I'm grateful for: having an understanding husband that allows me to sleep in when I'm tired.

All in all, a great day!

 

[DreamBeliever]

As much as I enjoy reading daily devotionals and inspirational quotes, I've never tried journaling my own thoughts. Even though I'm tracking my food, water, exercise, etc., I'm sure this daily journal will also be a self discovery.

Food Intake: Breakfast: 3/4 cup cereal with soy milk, Lunch: apple and yogurt, Dinner: Small helping of left over chinese food
Water Intake: 9 glasses
Exercise today: Worked in garden
Mood: I had a sense of accomplishment today because I finalized decisions on the roofing and siding, and had extra time at work to help others.
Today I'm grateful for: Having time to enjoy the things that are important to me.

I recently receive our MNSSHP tickets in the mail and made ressies at the Liberty Tree Tavern. I have so much to look forward to during my mother daugher trip in October.

 

[DreamBeliever]

Saturday, May 19 I spent the day with my DD and her friend. I took them to Chicago and we walked around Navy Pier, had lunch and shopped along Michigan Avenue. The girls had a great time exploring and enjoying the sites.

Food Intake: Breakfast: Coffee, Lunch, Portabello mushroom sandwich, chips and salsa, a few fries and 3 handfuls of jelly beans, (shame on me) Dinner: None, I wasn't hungry.
Water Intake: 8 glasses
Exercise: Walked all around Chicago
Mood: It was great reminising (sp?) as I walked down Michigan Avenue. I have wonderful memories of living in Chicago with my DH during the early stages of our relationship together.
Today I'm Grateful For: Having the opportunity to spend time with my DD and watch her interact with her friends.

I felt a little guilty that I gave into the non-healthy snacks throughout the day. However, I typically would have eaten much more ~ so by the end of the day, I was glad I didn't overindulge.

 

[DreamBeliever]

OK, this journal is all about being accountable. So here comes the hard part ... journaling all the unhealthy food I ate today.

Food Intake: Breakfast: Decaf latte with soy and 1/2 donut. Lunch: Low fat vanilla capp with decaf from machine. Dinner: Tostito scoops (many) with taco ground beef. Snack: Ice pops
Water Intake: 8 glasses
Exercise: 40 minutes walking and 3 1/2 hours heavy gardening ~ weeding, raking, planting, etc.
Mood: I felt very positive and productive all day.
Today I'm Grateful For: The beauty of a well kept garden. It's amazing how rewarding God's gifts can be when they are well cared for.

Even though I sabotaged my diet today, the whole day was not a complete failure. I spent most of the day working outside with my family.

Tomorrow is another day!

 

[DreamBeliever]

I looked out over my yard and garden this morning and felt a rush of accomplishment. I love sitting on our deck with a cup of coffee, reading a daily devotional and taking in the tranquility.

Food Intake: Breakfast: 3/4 cup high fiber cereal with soy milk. Lunch: Banana and yogurt. Dinner: Strawerries, roast beef and carrots. Snack: Sugar Babies
Water Intake: 6 glasses
Exercise: 110 minutes of walking
Mood: Today I felt a sense of satisfaction. I managed to fit everything into my day.
Today I'm Grateful For: My children are both interested in music.

This evening we took Grama to DS's last band performance of the school year. Those students are extremely talented and the band teachers are fabulous mentors. Our children are lucky to have had such nurturing teachers.

 

[C_leen]

Hi Dream Believer-

I love hearing about your garden & Chicago. Gardening can be a great exercise and mentally rewarding too! Walking Michigan Avenue is pure heaven for me & excellent exercise.

I fight off candy temptations too. Good luck with your goals & keep up the great work!

 

[DreamBeliever]

Hi Colleen,

Thank you for visiting my journal. Are you from the Chicago area?

I watch over my garden all winter hoping my garden will come back beautiful after a long hybernation. Even though I have to load up on ibeoprofin (sp?) before and after spending long hours working in the yard, I find it very satisfying.

My DH and I used at live in Chicago and we get homesick for our old jaunts. I love taking our children to the city and introduce them to the places we used to enjoy.

Food Intake: Breakfast: 3/4 cups high fiber cereal with soy milk. Lunch: Beef and Swiss wrap and banana. Dinner: Chicken & veggie shishikabob and twice baked potato and 1 scoop ice cream. Snack: Strawberries
Water Intake: 9 glasses
Exercise: 80 + 55 = 135
Mood: I feel great! Lot's of sunshine and outdoor exercise!
Today I'm Grateful For: Friends and family who share my passions and goals.

I walked with a friend today and had a great conversation. Before we new it we had walked 80 minutes. Later in the evening I walked an additional 35 minutes with DH and did 20 minutes strength training with DD. I love the feeling of successful and well organized day.

 

[DreamBeliever]

As I was eating my breakfast this morning (mind you I was in my jammies), I became startled when I saw several men standing on my front yard. In a panic I sent my DH out to see what was going on. He reported that the roofing crew was ready to start removing and replacing our roof. YIPPEE! They were scheduled to start next week but had time earlier than expected. I am doing the happy dance

Food Intake: Breakfast: High fiber cereal with soy milk. Lunch: Yogurt and banana. Snack Milky Way (oops!) Dinner: Favorite Mexican restaurant.
Water Intake: 8 glasses
Exercise: Rest day
Mood: Thrilled!
Today I'm Grateful For: Siblings. My sister stopped by to visit me at work and shortly afterwards, my brother called.

 

[DreamBeliever]

I haven't reported for a few days because we've had storms in the area and our internet service was down. Rather than recreate the past few days, I'm just going to start with today.

Food Intake:Breakfast: Granola with soy milk. Lunch: Snack: Dinner:
Water Intake:
Exercise:
Mood:
Today I'm Grateful For:

 

[DreamBeliever]

On the last day of May, I thought I would reflect on the ups and downs of the month.

I am so proud that I found the time and endurance to complete 1470 minutes of exercise for the month. There were days when I didn't want to put my shoes on and head out the door. However, as it turns out, some of those days gave me the best results. When I don't want to exercise, I know I'm emotionally struggling with something. Once I start exercise, I mentally resolve those struggles and no longer feel the burden. Walking is a win ~ win

Another biggie this month was starting Lexapro. I have been very moody the past 18 months, and just assumed that the pressures of life have interfered with my emotions. After a few discussions with my Dr., we determined that as a result of my hysterectomy, I am not producing nearly enough saratonin (sp?) ... a body produced chemical that provides many benefits including a natural coping mechanism. Now that I've been on Lexapro for 4 weeks, I've noticed that I'm able to deal with the smaller stuff and I'm beginning to feel like my old self

My DH didn't travel much this month, therefore, we were able to spend more time together. The travel starts up again June 3 to Tokyo for 2 weeks, but I'm extremely grateful he had the past 4 weeks at home.

The kids are in their last week of school. Needless to say, they're ready for summer. My DD starts driver's ed on June 4 for six weeks and has developed the attitude of an 'about to drive' teenager. I know reality will sink in as soon as she gets tired of running errands for us . My DS is more than ready to be a high schooler in August, but not prepared to be at the bottom of the food chain as a freshman

We also had our roof replaced and our house should be resided in the next few days. I feel like I should have a house-warming party because I 'feel' like I have a new house. It's very exciting.

The down fall this month is that I lost only 2 pounds. Even though I wish I lost more weight, I know I've been eating more carbs because all the exercise has increased my appetite. I need to make better food choices next month.

Every day, I'm provided with plenty of inspiration and satisfaction to watch God's miracles work.

Food Intake: Breakfast: Banana, cereal and soy milk, Lunch: Dinner: Snack:
Water Intake: 3 glasses
Exercise: Rest day
Mood:
Today I'm Grateful For:

 

[DreamBeliever]

It's time for me to bust through this weight I exercise frequently, but I haven't been as good about my food choices. I start the day extremely motivated, but as the day goes on, I give into snacking. This week when I want to snack, I'm going to try to distract myself for 10 minutes, and grab fruit or veggies along with a glass of water, instead of a sweet or salty goody.

Food Intake: Breakfast: Bare Naked LF Granola and soy milk. Snack: Cashew nuts. Lunch: Yogurt and apple. Dinner: Spinach salad with chicken.
Water Intake:9 glasses
Exercise: Rest day.
Mood: Tired, it's Monday.
Today I'm Grateful For: I took a good look at my new and improved house this morning. The crew who worked on our roof and siding are extremely dedicated and consciencious (sp?). It's a blessing to see that hard work is both appreciated and recognized.

 

[DreamBeliever]

Food Intake: Breakfast: Banana & yogurt. Lunch: LF veggie black bean soup & whole grain roll. Snack: Cashews. Dinner: Malt-o-Meal and cherries
Water Intake: 3 Glasses
Exercise: 40 minutes
Mood: Great! I went wogging at 6:00 am
Today I'm Grateful For: My children's patience

Today is the first day of my children's summer vacation. Unfortunately, I need to work several additional hours the next three weeks. It's disappointing for all of us that I can't drop everything and take them where they want to go. I know they want to spend time with their friends and have fun, but I'm at the office and unable to take them. I'm glad they're so understanding.

I stopped at my friends house last night to visit with her and her aging MIL. The time always gets away from us when we spend time together and I realized on my way home that I was both tired and hungry. Well ... bless my DD's little heart ... she had made me malt-o-meal and had a bowl of cherries on the counter for me.

 

[DreamBeliever]

Today after I get home from work, I'm taking my DD15 to get her driving permit. I'm not ready for this phase of my life but I know she is very excited.

Food Intake: Breakfast: Yogurt. Lunch: Chicken and a few french fries. Snack: 2 cheese sticks and necterine. Dinner: Too late to each much so I had a few cherries
Water Intake: 8 Glasses
Exercise: 135 minutes
Mood: GREAT
Today I'm Grateful For: Having a yard and garden to work in.

I love spending time working in our yard/garden because a little effort can go a long way. For instance, a few colorful flowers along a walkway is very welcoming for friends and family. Now that the siding and roof is complete, I've decided to 'freshen up' the landscape. I have an agressive plan, but I find it extremely rewarding.

 

[C_leen]

Hi Dream Believer!

I'll pray your daughter does well with her driving permit & that you don't have too many scares as she gains confidence and time at the wheel!

Good luck on your goal to focus on your eating habits this month!

 

[DreamBeliever]

My, my, my ... where have I been!

Food Intake:Breakfast: v-8 juice, Lunch: Small portion leftover Chinese food, Snack: Dinner:
Water Intake:6 glasses
Exercise:20 minutes
Mood:Tired
Today, I'm Grateful For:Getting back into a routine.

After spending 10 days in Japan, I'm glad to be home. Don't get me wrong, we had a glorious vacation! Japan is rich in history, tradition, modernism and art. I'll always cherish the time we spent with the gracious people of Japan. However, I found the Japanese people to be very disaplined ~ a characteristic I envy. Which leads me to my journal, which I have neglected for nearly 2 months.

I realize I've been busy enjoying the summer with my family and friends, but I haven't been faithful to my journal. Today is a new day, and I'm ready to jump back on the wagon.

 

[DreamBeliever]

I'm glad to be back on the journal wagon. I don't know what it is that makes me feel more complete if I journal my activities, but I look forward to filling in my entries throughout the day.

Food Intake: Breakfast: Yogurt
Water Intake: 2 Glasses
Exercise:
Mood: Still tired
Today, I'm Grateful For: Rain

I'm really looking forward to recovering from our Japan vacation. After a 12 hour flight home and a 14 hour time difference, my internal clock is WACKED! Since we returned 2 days ago, I've been too tired to exercise. I know I should listen to my body and sleep when I need to, but I don't like being away from my exercise routine for more than a few days. On vacation, we walked for several hours each day and I was really proud to keep exercise a priority. Hopefully, I regain my energy soon.

On a positive note, my garden looks fantastic We've been getting a nice gentle rain each day for the past 2 days, and there is still more in the forecast. Haaaa ... beautiful, lush, bug-free plants.

 

[DreamBeliever]

The count-down has officially started in 9 weeks I will be arriving at WDW with my DD for our Mother & Daughter vacation.

Food Intake: Breakfast: Protein bar and Coffee, Lunch: Asian Salad, Dinner: Snack:
Water Intake: 4 Glasses
Exercise/Training:
Mood: Great!
Today, I'm Grateful For: My kids interest in music.

I'm fired up because my training program is going well. My DD trains with me about 50% of the time, but her schedule is much more busy than mine. I'm proud of her for taking the 10K serious enough to get in shape for it.

My DS has started taking drum lessons and I think he'll be great because he has the interest in playing for the high school band.

 

[DreamBeliever]

I thought I would jump back on the wagon after running behind it for so long. So much has occurred since I last journaled. Let me reflect:

~ Husband started a new job
~ Children are now 15 and 16 (where has the time gone?)
~ I have gone back to college to earn a Horticulture Certificate
~ I participated in the 1/2 Marathon at Disney

Rather than blab about all I want to accomplish, I thought I would focus on the Minnie Marathon in May and journal my weight loss and training schedule:

Food Intake: Breakfast: oatmeal with soy milk and brown sugar; banana. Luch: soup, apple Dinner: dinner and muffin
Water Intake: 5 glasses
Exercise:
Mood: Peaceful and warm
Today I'm Grateful For: The beautiful scenery. I just love to look out the windows and see the snow covered trees. However, I am concerned whether or not I'm going to get a walk in today.