How Low Can You Go

Merci! Arigato! Thank You!

>> Monday, November 29, 2010

Thanks for all your comments yesterday, you guys are great.  I appreciate all your support.  Even those readers who don't comment, I know you're there!  THANK YOU!  Commenters, a HUGE thank you!  NEW FOLLOWERS welcome!

Today I felt like a million dollars.  I went back to work after being off for 5 weeks.  The students were so happy to see me.  I got alot of hugs and compliments, it made me feel so good, even kids that I do not teach this year had well wishes for me.  I have never been happier to be at work.

I did Muscle Challenge and Zumba and I am feeling amazing.  In Muscle Challenge we had a set of 12, 10, 8 and 5 pound weights and we did various drop set exercises (you start with the 12 pounds and work your way down for a certain number of reps). We did lunges across the room, skipped and did lots of floor work.  I LOVED IT!  I am the type of person that likes loves to be pushed, that is what I am paying for right? The harder it is the better.  I never complain that something is too hard.  I love sweating and that good muscle burn you get.

A few things that I have noticed about myself:

  • I have good cardio, I can jump rope and do other similar type of activities and not feel tired.
  • I can now do jumping jacks, my breasts are still big, but I feel alot better doing jumping activities, I really couldn't a few years ago.
  • I don't cheat in class, if the teacher says do 100 sit ups, I do 100, even if it takes my twice as long as the others
  • My legs and arms are strong
  • My core needs work, anything core related (planks, v-sits, etc...)  I have to take breaks but it is getting better
  • I am strong, I even impress myself sometimes
Tomorrow they are having Zumba by candle light ( to promote one ladies homemade soy candles) followed by a wine and cheese.  Not sure how long running will be, so I will try to make it.  Sounds like a fun time.

Can you believe tht December is here!???? CAHRAYZAY!

P.S. Oh na na what's my name....LOL ;)

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A Few Words...

>> Sunday, November 28, 2010

I am back to work tomorrow after 5 weeks off form surgery.  I am anxious, but I am excited to go back to work.  Even though the pay would not keep me in the profession forever. I love teaching.  I don't care what people say about teenagers 98% good.

 Let us take a look at the  physical activity that I planned to do last week:

M- Muscle Challenge Class and Zumba DONE!
T- Tight and Toned or Chisel Circuit Class,  Did tight and toned (A lady brought her newborn baby to class, she was working out and he was chillin', didn't make a sound the whole time) 4K run, YES! Zumba Nope, running ran late
W- Core Class?Nope 4K run YES!
T-Zumba, ChiselChallenge in the am, YUP! Muscle Challenge in the pm Nope
F- Zumba Tone Nope
S-Tight n Toned, Zumba and Muscle Challenge, YES I did the three classes!
S- 8K Run Was out late didn't make it :(

I heard another lady say she doesn't want to life heavy because she doesn't want her arms to get big.  NEWSFLASH: Women we DO NOT have enough testosterone in our bodies to achieve the same muscle mass as men.  Even if you lift 15 pounds for biceps you will NOT get man arms, what you will get is sexy shaped guns, that you can show off all summer. 

Not bad, 5 days of activity.  I don't know why but the scale keeps moving up, I am not sure if it is because of the increased activity, but it makes me sad.  I have not really been eating more, but I am so frustrated.
I went to a party yesterday and ran into a girl, I went to school with a few years ago.  I haven't seen her in a few years and she looks great.  She asked if I have a blog.  I had to chuckle to myself.  I sometimes forget that ANYONE could be reading this.  Not necessarily a bad thing, I guess I just forget.

The good news is even if the scale is moving in the wrong direction. People at the party said I looked really good.  That is always nice to hear. 

Nevertheless, a wave of discouragement seems to have me in its grasp.  Why can't my body see that I am working so hard and react?  Why can't it loss more than a pound a week?  Where are the muscles hiding? I know you are there, you hurt when I work you hard. Come out come out wherever you are...I don't want to give up, but sometimes I feel like I am fighting a losing battle.  Maybe I am not meant to be less than 203 pounds, maybe it is not possible. 
I will not let the damn scale get me down, at least that is what I try and tell myself.  I am still here, looking to get into the best shape of my life.  But weeks are turning into years and as the years go by, the effort increases, but the weight does not.  Even if I feel like crap, I still try and do the best that I can.  I may not have lost all the weight in a year or two or even three, but I am still trying and that is all that I can do.  I vowed that I would never go back to the hospital, the sounds, the smells, I want nothing to do with it.  I just want to make each day worth it.  I do not want to have ask myself, what if I didn't eat that __________? What if I went to the gym that extra day. Some of you are going to say, "put away the scale".  No can do, it is like my GPS, it guides me in the direction that I need to go.  I see it as a compass, a mute trainer.  It tells me if I have to work harder. Sad., but true.

I keep forgetting that I am racing on Saturday, this will be the first race since the surgery, am I ready, no. All I can do is run my little heart out.  I hope that my time in still in the low thirties and that I am not any slower.

This week's plan:
M-Muscle Up, Zumba
T-3K, Zumba
W-Run with co-worker/Hill Training
T-Legs and Arms/Muscle Challenge
F-REST
S-5K RACE!
S-8K

Hope that everyone had a nice weekend.
P.S.I can't get that Rhianna/Drake song "What's My Name?"  out of my head!  OH NANA, WHAT'S MY NAME? Oh na na, what's my name?

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15 in 15 Challenge Week 9

>> Friday, November 26, 2010

TOM is here so I am up. 210.4, that's up another pound, sad but true.  I was supposed to do two classes this morning but it there is freezing rain and I have a headache, I am really notin the mood.  Maybe I will do 3 classes tomorrow to make up for it.

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving.

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Featured Challenger: Ronke143 @ Young, Black and Banded

>> Wednesday, November 24, 2010

This week's featured challenger is Ronke143 over at Young, Black and Banded, she has lost over 8 pounds so far in the challenge and is doing a fantastic job!  Check out her blog and take a look at her answers to the questions:

Why are you in this challenge?

I'm on a mission to be under 200 pounds by the new year, this challenge is just the motivation I need.

What are the top 5 things you did this week to help you loss weight?
Exercise, healthy food choices, calorie counting, planned out my meals and avoided liquid calories
What is the best piece of advice you can give to challengers?
I would say do what works for you, and what you can stick to. The low carb route works for me, it may not work for you. Find something that you will stick to and do just that....STICK TO IT!

What keeps you motivated?
Being able to be as active as I would like to be. Fitting into old clothes, and shrinking out of my current wardrobe.

Favorite healthy meal/snack?
I love Oikos' caramel greek yogurt. I have this every morning for breakfast. It's delicious and tastes like I'm "cheating" but it's packed with protein!

What are your weaknesses/downfalls and how do you deal with them?
My weakness is I'm a boredom eater. I try to stay busy, and eliminate the situations in which I would revert back to that. At the same time, I allow myself a treat or two once in a while. I feel like when I do that it takes care of the craving, and makes the next one a lot more managable.

If you could describe youself in one word (maybe two if you must) what would it be?
Determined!
(My friends and I were obsessed with 'Love and Baskeball' growing up. There's a line in the move where [young] Quincy's father scolds him about saying "can't", I don't know why that stuck with me, but it has!)

What does being physically fit mean to you? Describe some characteristics both physical and mental
Being physically fit means not being limited of inhibited by my own body. Physically, in it's simplist form, it means being able to go through my daily life with no difficulties, and also being able to partake in the things I enjoy without fear of ,y body holding me back. Mentally, it's the peace of mind that my body is capeable of completing tasks. Whether that be raking leaves, chasing after my newphews and neice, or competing in a 5K.

Is there one exercise that you always wanted to try but haven't? Will you?
Kickboxing. It looks like so much fun, and a good workout! I'm currently on a cycling fix, but once it's time to change it up, I'll be heading for kickboxing.

What is your favorite motivational quote?
The [wo]man who says [s]he can and the [wo]man who says [s]he cannot are both right!"

What is your best body part? How would you describe it?
Does my brain count? It's never let me down, and only gets better the older I get!

Name 3 of your favorite exercises.
Cycling, Zumba and Bootcamp!

For all my American bloggers if you want to send me your weigh in before Friday (today or tomorrow), that would be great.  I know that if you weigh in Friday after the big day, it may put a damper on you mentally.

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Man Arms

>> Monday, November 22, 2010

This is my last week home and I am going to make the best of it.  When I go back to work I will not have the opportunity to workout in the day (unless I go for a short run), like I do now.  I also know that as soon as I head back to work, I will not have the luxury of eating on time everyday.  I am going to try and avoid as many treats as possible, even though we are heading in December holiday season.  I really want to make it to ONEderland by Christmas or New Year's, that would be so ONEderful  (hahaha).  I am about 10 pounds away, like I have said before I have never been below 203, so that in itself will be an accomplishment for the books.  Even if it does not happen I will make every effort so that this wish may come true.  As I tell my students, "As long as you gave 150% even if you only score 75% that is all that matters." Even if I only lose a few pounds, I will know that I tried my best.  Only obstacle I foresee this week is a party on Saturday and I will bring a healthy dish so that there will be one to eat from.

  Today's eating is on point. Now that I can workout again, I am going at it hard.

M- Muscle Challenge Class and Zumba
T- Tight and Toned or Chisel Circuit Class, 4K run, Zumba
W- Core Class? 4K run
T-Zumba, ChiselChallenge in the am, Muscle Challenge in the pm
F- Zumba Tone
S-Tight n Toned, Zumba
S- 8K Run

I know that it seems like a lot, but I can aim to do all of this and see what actually gets done.

In other news 15 in 15 challengers we have lost 132.3 pounds all together so far!  Yeah us!

P.S. I did Muscle Challenge and Zumba. In Muscle Challenge class, a woman said to the teacher that she is getting "man arms"  because you can start to see cuts in her arms and she doesn't like it. ARE YOU F--KIN KIDDING ME!??  I will take your "man arms" any day, *sigh*

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Yes, I Fell

>> Sunday, November 21, 2010

I was out for my 7K run with the running group and in the last 5 minutes I tripped on a sewer corner and I fell.  My hip will be bruised, but I am OK, just a little embarrassed.

Time: 50:25
Distance: 6.9 K (just missed 7, I was slow)
Calories: 698

Not bad, I think tomorrow I will take a rest from running.  I will attend a weight class and Zumba.  

Have you ever done something embarrassing while exercising/running?

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Done and Done!

>> Saturday, November 20, 2010

Tight and Toned Weight Class--CHECK
Zumba class this morning--CHECK
Zumba class in the evening--CHECK
Size 14 Skirt --CHECK

Yeah me!  Did everything I set out to do and I got a skirt in size 14, first time in 7 years, CAHRAYZAY!

Tomorrow running club 7K. 207 hear I come!


My new best friend is my foot soak machine, this was a gift that I neglected until recently.  Lately my feet have been soar (they had a month off, they are probably confused),  so I have been using my vibrating heated foot soak for about 15 minutes a night. Ahhhhh, heaven.

Don't have a foot soak machine?  Take a plastic tub and fill it with warm water, add epson salts or any essential oil you have (peppermint is great).  Get a book/magazine and enjoy.  When you are done take a moisturing lotion massage and your done!

Happy Weekend!

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5K Done!

>> Friday, November 19, 2010

Ran my 5 K today and it was great, towards the end I had a little pain in the back of my ankles, anyone ever have that?  I did it in 40 mins. Burned about 515 calories.  Tomorrow the plan is Weight class and Zumba and then free Zumba in the afternoon.  I would like to get a run in there, but I am not banking on it.  Just remembered that I have the Santa Shuffle race in 2 weeks, YIKES!  Want to have a time under 32 minutes, but I am a little rusty, haven't raced since August.  Also snow is coming tomorrow nice (1-2 cm) double YIKES, this will be the first time I will run in the winter.

Bed Time!

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15 in 15 Challenge Week 8

Here we are week 8, can you believe it!?  After last weekend's fiasco of a 6 pound weigh gain in two days. I am at 209.2.  Not bad, I am only up 1.8.  Today, I am going to get that 5k run in at some time. At least I am under 210. Happy weekend!

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It Feels Good!

>> Thursday, November 18, 2010

     Just came back from a run!  Boy, let me tell you it feels so good to be back in the game. At first I was freezing (It is about 5 C/41 F), but I warmed up real fast.

Distance:  4.45 K
Time: 33:39
Calories: 432
Memo to self I need gloves and a headband to cover my ears and maybe something for my neck. Tomorrow's goal 5K. I may just make the 50K goal I set for November...I am currently debating what I want to set for Dec. 85K? Is that reasonable?
I stepped on the scale this morning 210, not bad.  Still up 3 pounds, I would be satisfied if I can be down one more for the weigh in tomorrow.  I hate that it takes a day or 2 to gain 5 or 6 pounds but it takes it a month lose those bitches.  I am a little worried about the ONEderland Challenge (get under 200 pounds by Christmas), when I was at 207 it seemed doable, now at 210 it seems a little less achievable. Saturday, I will be back at my classes and Saturday evening they are hosting a FREE Zumba class at Lululemon at the mall near my house, I am really excited.

In the New Year, I want to volunteer more, I want to add this to my list of resolutions.  I am blessed to have alot in my life and I feel that I should give back more.  I am going to look into doing a few hours a month, maybe something geared to youth.  I will be gift wrapping at the mall for a few days before Christmas for a local hospital, so that is a start.  I *heart* gift wrapping, I am pretty good at it, so why not share the wealth.
Can I just say that I am really feeling Kanye's new song "Monster".

See you tomorrow for the 15 in 15 Challenge Weigh In

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Back at It!

>> Wednesday, November 17, 2010

I went for a run tonight, the last time I ran was Oct.20, that is almost A MONTH ago.  It felt great even though it was wet and windy.  Here are the stats:

Time: 24:21
Calories: 341
Distance: 3.41 K
Average Pace/HR: 7:09 min/km   163bpm
Max Pace/HR: 5:07 min/km     178 bpm

Tomorrow, I am going to try and get 4 Km in and work my way up from there.  I know that I said I was going to get 50 Km this month but since we are at the 16th, I do not think it is possible, but I will try.



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"Celebrity" Workout Videos

Yesterday, I posted this situation.  I began to think about all the celebrities that have workout videos.  I found a few examples:

I am a huge dancehall  reggae fan. Elephant Man is a huge dancehall reggae artist from Jamaica, a few years ago he made a video. (I actually got to meet him and Tony Matterhorn when I was in Japan) I think this was joke and never sold in stores, but at least you got to learn some of the dance moves that were hot at the time.  Girls in the back in gold bikinis? At least they have running shoes on...Where are they in a warehouse?



Buffy the Body is a model/video vixen.  She sounds like she is reading from a script.  Buffy is a similar build to Anowa, but to me Buffy could be a little more toned.  She is known for her booty and I guess people who want a booty like hers will get this video.



Kim Kadarshian, in the last year she released the "Fit Into Your Jeans By Friday" series. I guess this is not "her" video because she is not the instructor, only participating.  What is with the rack of clothes in the back?  Is the showing her bra?  That would not fly in a reall workout situation.



Mel B aka Scary Spice from the Spice Girls.  Out of all the videos this one seems the most genuine and if I had a choice, I guess this is the one that I would get.  I really like Mel B. and she seems like a fun person.  Her accent is so cute.

 

Does this mean that if you have a nice body that you can have a workout video?  I did a little research and this is nothing new, Cher, Carmen Electra, the Baywatch Workout, the list goes on and on.  I guess if you add a celebrity's name to something people will buy it and workout stuff is not any different.

To be honest, I don't think that I would buy a celebrity workout video unless it was a celebrity that was larger and then lost weight in a healthy manner, but even then I don't think so.

I must give credit where credit is due and at least they are promoting an active lifestyle.  If it takes a celebrity for someone to start exercising so be it.  It is similar to Oprah and her book club.  Some people only read Oprah book club books, well at least they are reading.  If that is what it takes so be it.

Have you ever bought a celebrity workout video?

Which celebrity would you like to see in a workout video?  I know that L.L. Cool J, has books but I could not find a workout video, to be honest I don't think that I would do much working out, just sit there and watch the video ;)

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Insert Title Here

>> Tuesday, November 16, 2010

    Still up 5 pounds, I really hope I can tackle most of it by Friday, if not this will be the largest gain ever (I am so dramatic, but it is so true).  I am drinking water like it is going out of style.  I am eating clean like I am about to compete.  I am still not feeling as good as I did last week, but I will discuss this with the Dr. when I go on Friday. 

Did I ever tell you guys that I am obsessed with people's heights? I think that it should be a prerequisite on all weight loss blogs that the writer put their height somewhere.  Sure you are 200 pounds, but if you are 5'11 it is a different story than if you are 5'1.

Just sayin.

Please never buy this.

Random thought:  I was listening to Boyz II Men last night, their acapella stuff,  they just don't make music like that these days.

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Featured Challenger: Previously Plump...In Progress

>> Monday, November 15, 2010

This week's featured challenger is a fellow Canadian, Previouly Plump...In Progress.  This lovely lady has lost over 10 pounds in 7 weeks.  She was kind enough to take time out of her busy scheduale to answer a questions.

Why are you in this challenge?
I needed something to push me - I was in a bad spot for a while, not caring, not working out, eating whatever I could get my hands on. I needed someone, other then myself, to be accountable to. Miss Haneefa has always been an inspiration to me, and I thought it was the perfect opportunity for me to challenge myself.

What are the top 5 things you did this week to help you loss weight?
- I only ate when I was really hungry. I keep very busy now, with two jobs, and I find staying busy has been a huge help in keeping me from eating when I'm bored.
- Although I haven't been "working out" over the past couple of weeks, at my part time job I'm running all over the pub serving customers - I consider that a work out!!!
- I was really conscious of how much I was eating at each serving, I made sure only to eat until I felt 'satisfied'. I will serve a smaller serving then I want initially and if I'm still hungry after, I go back for more... that rarely happens though.
- I kept my end goal in mind: I know that come the new year, I want to be down to 175 lbs.
- I don't eat if it's less then 3 hours before I'm going to sleep.

What is the best piece of advice you can give to challengers?
Don't ever ever ever give up, no matter how far away your goal seems - take it in baby steps. Set small goals and work towards them; also, set NSV's (non scale victories) and work towards those.

What keeps you motivated?
My skinny jeans and pictures of my finishing a 10km race and weighing 160lbs

Favorite healthy meal/snack?
Hummus and carrots, homemade sweet potato baked-fries, stir-fry!

What are your weaknesses/downfalls and how do you deal with them?
Sweet foods... big time. I LOVE all sweets. I really just try and stay away from them. If I'm really craving them, I have a small amount. Then on Saturday nights I have 1 meal and 1 dessert of whatever I want and don't count the calories at all.

If you could describe youself in one word (maybe two if you must) what would it be?
Determined.

What does being physically fit mean to you? Describe some characteristics both physical and mental
feeling good about yourself, inside and out. Knowing that you're the best person you can be (or working towards it).

Is there one exercise that you always wanted to try but haven't? Will you?
Kickboxing. Looks like so much fun :) I will try it, one day... promise.

What is your favorite motivational quote?
Never, never, never, never give up. - Winston Churchill

It describes me (and my weight loss story), to a tee.

What is your best body part? How would you describe it?
my waist - even though it's larger then I would like it to be, it's relatively small compared to my hips etc. I have a great shape to my body - very curvy - and I appreciate that.

Thank you so much!

Picture this....
   
I am at the grocery store, it is around 4:30pm.  I have picked up the item I need.  I am in the mood for chocolate covered almonds.  I look high and low and I finally find them, there is only a big bag, so I pick it up and head to the cash.  As I get in line, I start questioning myself, " Do I really need this bag of almonds (No)?  Can I only eat a few (No)?"  Knowing the answers to these, I head to the cash and leave the bag on the shelf, yeah me!

MissHaneefa 1 Cravings 0 hahahahahahaha Run and tell that Homeboy!

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Anowa: The Nigerian Powerhouse

How much do you think she weighs? 150?  She muscular so maybe 175? WRONG!  This is Anowa, she is a model and fitness "guru".  She  is 5'10" and according to BMI she would be obese, but she is built like a brick house.   Anowa has ALOT of haters out there, that claim she lies about her weight, so she made this video to prove them wrong.  She is fit and if you go to YouTube she has made some aerobic videos and is extremely flexible (as you can see from the pic).

Check out the video to see how much she REALLY weighs.



Thoughts?

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Two Steps Forward, Three Steps Back

>> Sunday, November 14, 2010

     *Sigh* This title applies to me today in more ways than one.  I woke up this morning feeling more tired than I have this whole week.  This compares to right after I had the surgery and I had to stay in bed all day.  I was doing so well and now this.  I asked myself why I was so tired and all I can come up with was that I was out doing groceries yesterday and then last night I went to the Casino Night and although it was fun, I was on my feet all night at the Black Jack tables.  I hope that I start to feel better this week, because I need to get back on the workout train and I am also going back to work in two weeks and there is no way I can go back into the classroom feeling like crap.

    I stepped on the scale and I was 6 pounds up this morning.  That is a baby, how did I gain that much in 2 days.  I was so sad.  Yes, I ate cheese and bread Friday night.  Yes, I went to Casino night and I ate a few things but I honestly did not over do it.  I really don't get it.  Today I ate super clean, oatmeal, fish, cheese and wheat thins, 2 squares dark chocolate.  I have been drinking green tea and water all day, hoping to flush my system.  I am hoping that I didn't f--k myself over, Friday is so far away, but now I have to worry about 7 pounds, instead of 1 or 2.

Hopefully, your weekend was better than mine...

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Cheese is the Devil

>> Saturday, November 13, 2010

     I went to friend's place for dinner and to hang last night.  We watched Count of Monte Cristo, I love that movie it is so good.  If you haven't seen it check it out.  OHHHH, I also watched Grown Ups with Adam Sandler, Chris Rock and David Spade.  HILARIOUS! You will lose a pound and get a six pack laughing.

     The bad thing about this was we ate all this cheese (goat, smoked Cheddar) and bread (pita and french) for dinner (OK there were some veggies and hummus too).  I really overdid it.  Last time I checked it wasn't my last meal (by the way, there is a website that you can read prisoners last meals, it is really interesting to see what people choose, it is all most like the more they order the longer it will take to eat and they will prolong their life a little more)   I still feel full.  I really need to stop eating when I feel full! But everything was so scrumptious!  Bad, bad cheese, why do I love you so? *Sigh*

     Tonight they are having a Casino Night at my work, it should be really fun.  They will have a smoke meat station, yummy.  Anyone who knows Montreal, knows that we are known for the best smoked meat in the world.  I am excited about that, I am going to have to eat super clean today, so that when I go tonight I can be a little lenient.  I will also have to drink a ton of water.

As Tuesday, I will be back to working out and running.  HALLELUJAH!

Have a great weekend!

P.S.  If you haven't sent me your weight in for the 15in 15 please do~ In 6 weeks we have lost 121.3 pounds! We are amazing! Since last week we have lost over 30 pounds!  Woot woot!

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15 in 15 Challenge Week 7

>> Friday, November 12, 2010

Happy Week 7 Challengers!  We are pretty much half way there!  I am at 207.4 today down one pound, and so close to ONEderland. If I can stay at 207 until next week, I get a new blush from MAC, yeah rewards.  I have really been making an effort to get that water in and I have been drinking alot of green tea also. It is funny that I would rather drink a big glass of green tea, than water.  Must be reminiscent of my Japan days.

I just wanted to say thanks to all the readers of this blog, I really appreciate all your comments.

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WOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOO!

>> Wednesday, November 10, 2010

I wish I could line up all my readers on each side of me and high five you today. NSV (non scale victory) for the books.....

We all gotta do the Carleton Dance....


Why you ask?

I fit into a size 14! Woot woot!  The last time I wore size 14, it was 2003. DAMN HOMEY!  Can you believe it?!  Even though the scale is not really moving, I went to the store (bought a winter coat in XL, yeah baby) and tried on some other stuff and the skirts and dresses in 14 looked great.  I can't believe this!  You know what this means?!?  No more plus size stores.  Now I am officially going to be broke because I am going to be shopping like a mofo.  In other news had to go to work to pick up some forms and co-workers said that I am "waisting away".  Well if you think THIS is wasting away, wait till I lose these last 35 pounds, I am going to be straight up skeletal, I kid, I kid.

Doin the Carleton all the way to the bank dressing room!

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Two Weeks

>> Tuesday, November 9, 2010

The surgery was 2 weeks ago, and I am finally starting to feel like my old self again.  I can't believe that it has been 3 weeks since I have worked out and I have to go for another week before I can do anything.  This has been the longest I have gone with not working out for a long time.  I am pleased that I have not gained weight because I am being so strict with what I eat.  I think is because I know that I don't have that outlet to workout/run.  Being at home has its perks, no bake sales and no vending machines, no temptation.  When I go to the store, I am making smart decisions and really thinking twice about what I buy to eat.  I am sure that when I start working out again things will move a bit faster.  I would really love to make that ONEderland challenge by Christmas.  I only have about 9 pounds to go and I have 6 weeks, I can so do this!

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Help Me!

Two questions for you:

  1. I can't drink water anymore!  Help me, how do I get back at it.  How do you get in your ___ oz?
  2. What di you do when you come home late (say 10 pm) and you have not had supper yet?  Do you eat?  Do you suck it up and go to bed?  Do you have a light snack?

HELP ME!

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Featured Challenger: Shannie (Solidice242) @ In Search Of My Thinner Side

>> Monday, November 8, 2010

This week's featured challenger is Shannie, she has been doing an excellent job in the challenge, and has lost 8 pounds in 5 weeks!  I asked her a few questions and this is what she had to say:

1. Why are you in this challenge?

I am doing this challenge because it is simple. All I have to do is lose 1lb a week for 15 weeks and at the end, I would have lost 15lbs! Need I say more? I think not…lol

2. What are the top 5 things you did this week to help you lose weight?
Honestly, I had so many things going on last week that it was a shock to me that I lost any weight much less 2.9lbs. It’s the most pounds I have lost since this challenge started, but I guess I would have to say that:

· I drank at least 64oz of water every day.
· I only exercised 1hr and 20 minutes last week but I was very active with other stuff.
· I ate between 1100 to 1600 calories. Some days I ate 1100 and others I ate 1600, I also made sure that I took my green tea extract. I do not know if it is a mental thing but I think it is helping me with my journey.
· I stayed positive. I did not let one day of eating from Macdonald’s ruin my day. I calculated my meal to be 800+ calories, which meant that I only had 400 calories left to eat for the rest of the day (since I was sure I wasn’t going to exercise) and that, was all I ate.
· I watch my salt/sodium intake. Tom was visitng last week and for the first time in a long time, I wasn’t as bloated as I normally am during the time of the month.

3. What is the best piece of advice you can give to challengers?
I would say stay focused, stay encouraged and stay POSITIVE! Sometimes we have a tendency to focus on the negative. We talk down to ourselves in the mirror, we only focus on the weight we have to lose and we rarely see how far we have come. Eventually, that down talking can lead to unhealthy choices (diet fads and quick fixes) and a negative self-perception and these are all things that can hinder our progress or cause us to digress or give up.

4. What keeps you motivated?
Writing on my blog keeps me motivated. I need accountability.
Reading the blog posts everyone else makes and seeing their progress
My Sir, He is so supportive he loves me no matter what I look like. I gained about 60lbs in the time we have been together (5years) and he still tells me how beautiful I am. (I have lost about 17 of those 60lbs)
My health, I feel so much better since I started this journey, I used to have swollen ankles and joint pains (associated with my weight and being hypothyroid) but now I feel so much better my ankles aren’t swollen anymore, I barely have any joint pains I have way more energy. Every day isn’t bright but I am happy about how far I have come.

5. Favorite healthy meal/snack?
I love oatmeal. I can eat oatmeal all day every day. The only reason why I try to avoid it is that for me to eat it it has to be salty. Recently I have dramatically cut down on the amount of salt I put in it though.

6. What are your weaknesses/downfalls and how do you deal with them?
My Biggest weakness is ice cream. I cannot say no to ice cream. I WILL NOT say no to ice cream. How do I deal with it? Firstly, if I am craving ice cream I will buy it but to make sure I don’t eat too much I get a pint and then I would share it with everyone in my house, so that’s a pint of ice cream between 4 persons. I only eat until I am satisfied the craving, so sometimes that means that I only eat 4 spoons of ice cream then I am good. I also buy my least favorite ice cream. This also helps me to avoid eating too much ice cream. I try to eat ice cream only on Sundays if I want it.

7. If you could describe yourself in one word (maybe two if you must) what would it be?
I am a procrastinator. I live by two the mottos” if I can’t do it tomorrow it is not worth doing at all” and the second is” I will make time for it later.”

8. What does being physically fit mean to you? Describe some characteristics both physical and mental.
Physically fit means being able to do my daily chores without complaining about joint pains and without being out of breathe if I walk a flight of stairs. It feeling good about the way I look and how I feel when I wear my clothes. I don’t want to be tugging and pulling. I don’t want rolls and bumps hanging where it shouldn’t be hanging. I do believe it is a state of mind though more than it is a physical thing. Because what I have noticed is that, my body can take a lot more than my mind can. 30mins into a work sometimes my mind tells me “you have done enough you can stop now”, but my body says “nah we can handle it a bit more.”

9. Is there one exercise that you always wanted to try but haven't? Will you?
I want to try the elliptical. However, the idea of joining a gym grosses me out. The thought of someone else sweating on the equipment that I am using is too much to bear with. When I think about a gym, I think about musty smells, high body odors, and yea only negative things so I cannot join a gym. Yes, I would try it but I will have to buy my own machine in order to try that out.

10. What is your favorite motivational quote?
As you aspire to be more successful in life, your attitude towards yourself and others will play a huge role. Positive people learn how to handle life's challenges differently and use these opportunities to grow. So can you!

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Tags and Stuff

>> Sunday, November 7, 2010

I was over at In Search of My Thinner Side and the following questions were posted to answer.  Feel free to take any of them and answer them on your blog.  Readers, you know I love this stuff!

  • Name the furthest place you have been from home.
Tokyo, Japan!  I lived there for 2 years and it was the best two years of my life.  Hopefully, I will be able to go back one day and visit.  Honestly, the nicest people in the world. once they warm up to you.

  • What is the most physically demanding thing you have ever done?
To this day I still say that Spinning is the most demanding workout I have done to date.  I was devastated when my gym cancelled all the aerobics classes , including Spinning. I had become a pro.  I am never going to forget the first class I did, I thought I was going to die.  You need to be in shape before you tackle Spinning.  If you have a chance I HIGHLY recommend you try it, please try at least 3 classes before you judge though.  I always find it funny when people come to the class for the first time and they do not know what they are in for, especially men, they either sit the whole class or they walk out.
  • How long have you been blogging and what was your original reason for starting?
I started on January 3rd.  I had been reading weight loss blogs for awhile and I kept saying to myself, "I can do this!".  When I gained almost 20 pounds in 4 months, I finally said, "Let's get this blarty (blog party) started!"
  • What is the best thing that happened to you in 2010?
Playing mas in Toronto Caribana in August.  I was with all my friends and we had an amazing time. Celebrating my 30th birthday in August was also fantastic.

  • What is something that you bought this year that you wish you could have taken back to the store?
To be honest, I rarely have purchases that I regret.  Nothing really comes to mind.
  • If you could live anywhere in the world where would you live?
I wouldn't mind a few years in Dubai, maybe even Brazil or Germany.  I love languages and would love to have functional use of another one.  Also, I am so over Canadian winters, so somewhere hot would be great.
  • Are you planning on making New Year's resolutions?
Yes a few, get to my goal weight of around 172, so I can finally say that I have lost 100 pounds.  Run a half marathon would be a nice accomplishment also.
  • What is one of your fondest childhood memories?
When we went to Myrtle Beach in 1990 the whole family, it was one of the few family vacations that we took where we stayed in a hotel and did all kinds of touristy stuff.  It was great.

Questions for others.....
  • If you could be on any reality TV show which would you choose and why?
  • Did you ever hurt someone and wish you could apologize?  Who was it and what would you say?
  • I just gave you 25, 000$ to spend on yourself ONLY, what would you do?
  • You have a free vacation to anywhere in the world, where are you going?
In other news, can I just say that I went into Lululemon and I saw the following things that I want:

Running Gloves (They have a thumb flap for texting....who texts while they run???)

Ear Warmer

In None Scale Victory News...
     I was trying on winter jackets because the one I have is old and too big.  For fun I tried on a beautiful wool DKNY coat in a 14 and it almost fit!  Most XL fit but they were a little tight in the boobies.  This is great!  Considering the last coat I had was a size 20 this is fantastic!

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The Good, The Bad, The Ugly: Dr. Appointment Version

>> Friday, November 5, 2010


The Good...
      Went to the Dr. to take out the stitches and everything looks "good".  Biopsy results came back negative.

The Bad...
     Another week and a half of no exercise and no running.  I am just going to have to watch my eating extra hard.  I cannot do anything strenuous.

The Ugly...
     The scar looks bad.  I am not one to hide and I know that I am my worst critic.  Hopefully, over time it will heal and not look at as bad.

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15 in 15 Challenge Week 6

Wow, week 6 already.  Today was a glorious day, a new weigh in low 208.4!  Yeah, a loss of 1.8. For a total of 5.6.  I am almost where I am supposed to be.  I know that I can get to 207 because I saw it in the scale this week for a brief moment. 207 will make 65 pounds lost! 8 pounds away from ONE derland.  I am ecstatic. 5 pounds away from my all time low! (Can you tell I like numbers).

Look what I found the other day, just when I have forgotten how far I have come....
Yup, that's me, lady in red at 272 pounds,all time high, Margarita Island, Venezuela, March 2007, this is where the journey began

You fancy huh? August 2010, 60 pounds lighter (212)
How was your week?  Let me know......

P.S. Did you know that we have lost 90.4 pounds altogether as of week 5!  WOW! WAY TO GO TEAM!

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Walking In A Winter ONEderland

>> Thursday, November 4, 2010

I love challenges.  I was perusing blogs and I came across Meg @ Grande Skinny Latte she is having a challenge to get into the one hundreads by Christmas.  I am so in. Check it out. Does it overlap with the 15 in 15 Challenge, YUP.  Who cares!  We are all heading in the same direction right?

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November Goals



Everywhere I turn click, bloggers have November goals, I guess I will make a few also.

  1. Get to 200 pounds (I tend to loss weight so slowly, I would have with 203)
  2. Run 50K this month, hopefully the Dr. will give the OK that I can get back to running next week.
  3. Workout 6 times a week
  4. Drink at least 2 L of water a day
  5. Try a new class each week
Very doable.

I am 8-9 pounds away from 200!  WOOOO HOOOOO!  Official weigh in tomorrow.  I am going to ask the Dr. if I can run Sat.  I really want to.

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U-G-L-Y You Don't Have No Alibi

>> Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Since the surgery things are getting better, I miss working out so much.  I am a bit miserable.  I can't wrap my head around staying home.  I can't wait until next week so that I can start running and working out again.  Like I said before I never want to go back to the hospital again.  My job is to take the best care of myself as possible.  I can eat solid foods again and I have been careful with what I eat (with the exception of pizza that I had last night).  I am really trying to do my best in the next few weeks.  I am so close to my all time low of 203 and I am even closer to 200.  I have not been this weight since 2003. I have made a new list of goals/rewards and the next one is at 207, I will get a new blush from M.A.C.
    I know this sounds vain, but the scar that I am going to have from this surgery is going to be so ugly. It is about 4 inches across the base of my neck in the front of my body.  I swear you may as well call me Frankenstein.  I look like I was strangled with telephone cord. But, there is nothing that I can do, being black is great, sure I am 30 and look 23, yet when you scar it is really bad and lasts for close to infinite.  Thankfully this isn't Japan circa geisha times when your neck was the sexiest part of your body because I would be Quasimodo.

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Featured Challenger: Single, Sassy and Saved

She lost 5 pounds in the 15 in 15 Challenge last week and the is Week #5's Star of The Week: Single, Sassy and Saved!

Why are you in this challenge?
I am in this challenge because I need an extra push. I was slippin on my pimpin before this challenge and I seen this challenge as a new beginning.

What are the top 5 things you did this week to help you loss weight?
1. Track, track, track
2. WATER!!! My trainer has me drinking half of my body weight in ounces.
3. Jillian Michaels 30 day Shred. I am doing this for the whole month of Nov and its so intense.
4. filling half my plate with veggies
5. Trying new recipes allows me to keep variety in my diet.

What is the best piece of advice you can give to challenges?
I would have to say don't pencil yourself or your health in. When you want to make a positive change in your life you have to be commited to it and if you keep making up excuses for things, then you will never acheive your goals.

What keeps you motivated?
Gosh, this is a hard question for me to answer.... I have so many things in my life that motivate me but I guess the main things are following other weight loss blogs and how great I feel after a hard workout or eating healthy for a day. Just reading other's stories, inspire me to to do my best. **** Oh while I am working out I am always picturing myself at a healthier weight and how amazing my shopping spree is going to be :o)

Favorite healthy meal/snack?
I love MorningStar Farms® Tomato & Basil Pizza Burgers!!!! I get a wheat thin bun toast it, garlic laughing cow cheese, cucumbers, and the pizza burger.... It's the most delish thing ever and I think its only 4 WW pnts

What are your weaknesses/downfalls and how do you deal with them?
I am addicted to food! Like I eat when I'm sad, happy, bored, busy, stressed, I eat all the freaking time. Since I joined WW it has made me mindful of what I am eating. Right now I am at another downfall even with WW and that is tracking what I eat. One of my goals for the month of November is to track everything no matter what.

If you could describe youself in one word (maybe two if you must) what would it be?
Vivacious!

What does being physically fit mean to you? Describe some characteristics both physical and mental
Being physically fit to me means not getting out of breath when I walk up the stairs, able to pick something off the ground without struggling, doing jumping jacks without worrying rather or not I will get a black eye from my boobs (lol). Right now I am trying to achieve health and happiness so when I get to the point wear I am healthy and happy then I know I am physically fit.


Thank you so much!  Look out for next week's feature.

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Don't Want to Gain During The Holidays? Read This

>> Monday, November 1, 2010

I know that it may seem early to be talking about this,but since most of my readers are American, and one of their biggest holidays is coming,  I have complied some tips so that you don't gain weight (or not as much) during this festive time (nevertheless, many of these tips can work day to day also), for more check out this month's Muscle&FitnessHERS:
  1. If you fail to plan, plan to fail.  We need to have a game plan when we head out during the holiday season.  Try to keep the "bad" foods to a minimum. 3/4 of your plate should be fruits, salads and veggies, the other 25% can be of your choosing, but choose wisely.  I always try and bring a healthy option to the party, so that I know that there will be at least ONE healthy plate there.  Plan your workouts for the week as well as your meals if you can. Set your workout appointments in your phone, write it down in your agenda, on a calender, whatever you have to do to remember.  If people at the party (or your family) try to push food on you, tell them that you will take it home.  Once you are home you can do what you please with it.
  2. Bring healthy food to work with you.  When your co -worker comes to the staff room with a pumpkin pie, you won't feel so bad because you have your apples and yogurt.  Also if you have your own snacks and you are hungry you will not be tempted by the vending machine or the treats on people's desks.
  3. Please don't skip meals.  It may seem like a good idea to "save" your calories for the big dinner/party.  Nope, NOT a good idea.  Eat all your meals as usual, so that you are not forced to overeat at the event, because you are starving.
  4. Put your best foot forward.  Volunteer to cook a healthier meal for everyone or at least bring a healthy option to an old time favorite.  Try and substitute ingredients that may not be that good for you, online you can find many healthy options to recipes such as sweet potato pie and stuffing. 
  5. Don't want to gain a pound? Write it down!  It has been proven that people who write down and keep a record of what they eat will not gain the 4 pounds during holiday season that their counterparts who did not write gained.  Just because it is a holiday it doesn't mean that all the hard work you did the other 51 weeks of the year has to go to waste.  If you do have a bad day, try not to let it get to you!  You have worked so hard for this.  Get right back into the game, trust me it is worth it.  I gained almost 20 pounds in 5 months last year because I let the snowball effect get the best of me.  I finally said enough is enough.  I told myself that I was not going to ruin the 50+ pounds I had lost last year.  This blog was born.
  6. This is the time to be selective. Does your Grandma only make those cookies once a year?  Have one!  Can you have that cake at any birthday? Skip it.  If there are a few things that you want to try, have a bit or two of each.  Try not to eat the whole thing.  At least then you will have had a taste of your favorites.
  7. You deserve a pat on the back.  Treat yourself if you have stuck to your planned workouts and eating for the week.  Buy yourself a new nail polish or lip gloss, maybe a go to a movie.  Try to avoid food as reward.
  8. In this case more is NOT better.  Skip the whipped cream on that hot chocolate.  Do you REALLY need gravy on the mashed potatoes? Skip the extras.  If you can don't eat the crust on that pie.
  9. DRINK WATER! Enough said
  10. Avoid Alcohol.  I have really cut down on the alcohol over the years.  To the point that people now say, "Oh yeah, you don't drink." or "Are you Muslim/pregnant?"  I really feel that alcohol, is a waste of calories.  If you must, try a light beer or some red wine.  Try to stick to juice mixers such as orange juice or cranberry.  Gin and tonic is a nice one.  The creamier the drink the worse it is for you (yet the better it tastes....)  My weakness is egg nogg.  Try to always have a half full glass in your hand, even if it is just sparkling water, this will prevent people from wanted to get you a drink.  Also if you hands of full you won't feel the need to go around sampling snacks.
  11. Big party? Eat as clean as you can the day of the party and even the day before, so that when you get to the party you do not feel so bad if you indulge.
  12. Run It!  Many states have holiday runs usual called turkey trots.  You can make it a holiday tradition.  Sign up for a local 5K run or walk, you will burn so many calories.  Maybe that is not your thing?  Go for a walk with the family after dinner.
  13. Shop Til You Drop!  Shopping burns so many calories it is unbelievable.  Park far away and don't feel bad, you are getting your exercise just walking to the mall door.  Am I the only one who has broken out into a sweat when I tried on too many clothes, small change rooms, bright store lights, need I say more?
  14. Work It Out.  Before the big dinner, hit the gym for 30 minutes.  Don't have time to get to the gym?  Do 50 push ups, 50 sit ups, 5 sets of planks, 50 chair dips and 50 bicep curls, you will be good to go.
  15. Read my blog  HAVE FUN! LOL!

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