Week 1: Success!

Last Friday was my first Weight Watchers meeting. I was happy to have the support of four friends, who went to the meeting with me. When I walked in, I realized my new leader was a lady I know from church! I was excited to know that she would be my new motivator and that she would have my back. The right leader can make all the difference!

After the meeting, I met my friend GP at the gym for a workout. I did 30 minutes on the elliptical and a nice weight circuit. Then, I headed to the grocery store to find foods that would make me successful. I had the grocery list on the back of the Simple Start booklet for suggestions. When I came home, I felt empowered and ready to get started.

This week I mostly stuck to the Simple Start booklet. I was really good about drinking plenty of water, eating lots of fruits and vegetables, and trying to make healthy and delicious meals. I got on the elliptical again on Tuesday, but that was my only other workout for the week. I'm fighting a cold, and don't want to push myself too far.

This morning, I made it back for another weigh-in and meeting - YAY ME! One week conquered. I lost 6 pounds this week - which I am pleased with, to say the least. Every week won't be like this one, so I'll take these when I can get them. I had two friends return to the meeting with me today, and that made me happy. It's wonderful to go on this journey with friends - a journey to a healthier life, more energy and clothes that fit better.

I'm back! Time to spill...

I have been having the hardest time getting motivated, finding reason, and pushing myself to succeed. I have started, and stopped, started, and stopped. Something always defeats me.

So, here I am, once again. Trying. This time I come armored with some new tools.

Tomorrow, I start Weight Watchers. I was very successful with WW 7 years ago. I had my friend AC with me, to support me and push me. I haven't had a friend do that for me since. This time, I have AC supporting me from across the country. I also have 4 local friends that are doing WW with me. I'm hoping we help keep each other motivated, accountable and excited about the possibilities.

AC has turned me on to a book to read as well: Made to Crave. This book will serve as a companion to go along my WW plan. It's supposed to help with the "want to", and includes a Bible study.

I plan on returning to the gym next week, going 3-5 times per week. Next Wednesday, Lent begins. If you have read my posts before, I try to reflect on my gluttony during Lent especially. I have motivational verses hanging in my bathroom, hoping for renewed perspective on how to honor God by being more healthy.

I am planning on blogging my journey. While it mostly serves as a journal for myself, I hope it can help someone else on their journey as well.

I May Not Be There Yet...But I'm Closer Than I Was Yesterday!

Almost three weeks in...I am down 13 pounds, and a whole size. Paleo is coming through for me, once again! I have been attending water aerobics twice a week, and trying to squeeze two additional days at the gym as well.

Our family traveled to the coast last weekend. We indulged quite a bit, and I came back 2 pounds heavier. The weekend was worth it though! Monday, I was back on track, and I lost those 2 pounds this week, plus 1 more.

Since the last time I posted, I have a new favorite Paleo recipe: Salmon Patties with a Creamy Lemon-Dill Sauce. Since we're in Lent, I've been more brave with trying new seafood recipes for my Fridays. This one was a hit with my family!

I am feeling good about my progress, my attitude and my excitement for what's to come!

Something New and Different!

Tonight, I treated myself to my first Detox Bath. I had heard my friend MK talk about it, but never tried it until tonight. How rejuvenating! I lit some candles, put some George Winston on Pandora, and sat back to relax. I did the 2 cups of Epsom salts, 2 cups of baking soda, a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger and a scented body oil I enjoy. I truly feel refreshed and awakened!

Fried Chicken for Lunch!

Paleo Fried Chicken Recipe

I made myself Paleo fried chicken today for lunch - delicious! I'm getting excited and creative with food. I'm going to explore some more recipes and share what else I like.

Day four, and I'm down 6 pounds. I went to water aerobics yesterday morning. It was a great workout, but I think I pushed it a little too hard. My bad knee (left) is all out of whack now. There's something about being in the water that makes you believe you can over extend your normal limits. I'm paying for it today.

I'm Back Here Again...

Great article: The Paleo Diet and the Case for Primal Living

It's Lent again, and I'm revisiting my same commitment as last year (see previous post). I'm on day 3 of being strictly back on the Paleo Diet...and I'm already down 5 pounds and feeling great. I've been to the gym twice this week, and am hoping to go at least two more times. I am tired of being uncomfortable in my own body again. I am unhappily over 200 pounds again, and ready for a change.

The Paleo Diet is my eating plan, and I would like to be at the gym 4-5 times per week. Here we go again! I'm at a gym that I LOVE (Superior Athletic Club) and I have friends to meet there, holding me accountable. My husband is on a similar eating plan, which is very encouraging. I hope you'll follow me on my journey.

Lent 2012

U Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.  Joel 2:12

U Do you not realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you and whom you received from God? You are not your own property, then; you have been bought at a price. So use your body for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

U Praise him for his mighty deeds! Psalm 150:2

Eat right: Paleo Plan

Exercise: 30 minutes per day

Take your medicine: 3x daily

Pray more.

Tomorrow begins the Lenten season. I have chosen and shared my plans for my Lenten sacrifice. I have picked four things (above) that have been lacking in my life. By making these changes, I will be healthier and stronger. My husband has graciously decided to make the same changes for Lent. I have been a glutton to food, and living a sloth-like lifestyle for too long. It is time to honor God by taking better care of our bodies. I hope you’ll follow me through my journey.