FOOD:
breakfast:
f.f. cottage cheese- 2
1.5 oz. avocado- 2
alternative bagel- 1
snack:
popcorn ball- 1
carrot sticks/bell pepper strips- 0
PB2- 1
lunch:
sandwich thin- 1
chicken slices- 1
1 oz. avocado- 1
cantaloupe cubes- 1
grapes- 1
soy nut mix- 2
snack:
lightfull smoothie- 1
dinner:
chicken sausage- 3
tomato/mexican squash- 1
potato- 2
parmesan- 1
post-dinner:
s.f. pudding cup- 1
total points used: 23/23
activity points: No More Trouble Zones DVD- 2
WAPs: -42/35 remaining
going to quiz tonight, so we'll be having whatever's around for dinner. I'm planning on finishing off the last chicken sausage, probably with some random assortment of veggies.
EXERCISE:
Did Jillian Michaels' No More Trouble Zones DVD this morning. It only earned me two activity points, but that was expected. I always forget how good the mix of moves is on that workout. She targets different muscle groups pretty evenly, so it's a good mix for someone like me who hates trying to come up with a strength training routine on their own.
Not much else to report. Just getting anxious for Friday's weigh-in.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Back to the grind.
Pretty lazy Labor Day. Made some teriyaki broccoli, tofu & mushrooms for dinner last night. I adapted it from a Biggest Loser cookbook recipe. Turned out pretty good. I've made it before, but adding the mushrooms gave it a nice touch.
FOOD:
breakfast:
egg beaters- 1
diced onion/mushroom/tomato- 0
light swiss- 1
light english muffin- 1
snack:
soynut mix- 2
celery/cucumber/bell pepper strips- 0
guacamole- 2
lunch:
leftover teriyaki broccoli/tofu/mushrooms- 4
cantaloupe cubes- 1
snack:
popcorn ball- 1
dinner:
chicken breast- 3
mashed cauliflower- 2
cucumber-tomato salad- 0
f.f. poppyseed dressing- 1
coors light- 2
s.f. pudding- 2
post-dinner:
popcorn- 1
total points used: 24/23
activity points: 50 min HIIT- 6
net points: 23
WAPs: -42/35 remaining
EXERCISE:
Did my first day of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) this morning at the gym. It was only the first day, but yeah, I think I'm a fan. I didn't stay on a single machine for more than 15 minutes, so the time flew by and my heart rate stayed pretty high all the way through, which was good for calorie burn.
This was my routine:
-10 min. treadmill (1 mile run)
-15 min. stairmaster
-10 min. elliptical
-10 min. incline training
-5 min. cool-down walk/stretching
I re-discovered the stairmaster (the one that's like an escalator). It's been months since I last used one and I was surprised how high it kept my heart rate. It kept it even higher than incline training, so definitely a good alternative. And the course I chose had a really good pace that kept me sweating, but also slowed down when I needed to catch my breath.
So that's that. I think I'm gonna stick with those machines for a while and just change the order in which I use them. Once I start to get bored, I might add in some cycling and rowing. We'll see.
Tomorrow I'm planning on doing Jillian Michaels' No More Trouble Zones, to keep up with my strength training. Thursday, I'll probably go to the gym again for HIIT and Friday, I think I'll do the Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism DVD, just because I haven't done it in a while.
FOOD:
breakfast:
egg beaters- 1
diced onion/mushroom/tomato- 0
light swiss- 1
light english muffin- 1
snack:
soynut mix- 2
celery/cucumber/bell pepper strips- 0
guacamole- 2
lunch:
leftover teriyaki broccoli/tofu/mushrooms- 4
cantaloupe cubes- 1
snack:
popcorn ball- 1
dinner:
chicken breast- 3
mashed cauliflower- 2
cucumber-tomato salad- 0
f.f. poppyseed dressing- 1
coors light- 2
s.f. pudding- 2
post-dinner:
popcorn- 1
total points used: 24/23
activity points: 50 min HIIT- 6
net points: 23
WAPs: -42/35 remaining
EXERCISE:
Did my first day of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) this morning at the gym. It was only the first day, but yeah, I think I'm a fan. I didn't stay on a single machine for more than 15 minutes, so the time flew by and my heart rate stayed pretty high all the way through, which was good for calorie burn.
This was my routine:
-10 min. treadmill (1 mile run)
-15 min. stairmaster
-10 min. elliptical
-10 min. incline training
-5 min. cool-down walk/stretching
I re-discovered the stairmaster (the one that's like an escalator). It's been months since I last used one and I was surprised how high it kept my heart rate. It kept it even higher than incline training, so definitely a good alternative. And the course I chose had a really good pace that kept me sweating, but also slowed down when I needed to catch my breath.
So that's that. I think I'm gonna stick with those machines for a while and just change the order in which I use them. Once I start to get bored, I might add in some cycling and rowing. We'll see.
Tomorrow I'm planning on doing Jillian Michaels' No More Trouble Zones, to keep up with my strength training. Thursday, I'll probably go to the gym again for HIIT and Friday, I think I'll do the Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism DVD, just because I haven't done it in a while.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Ho-hum.
Weight is back down from the crazy Saturday binge. Still need to stay focused the rest of the week though. Tomorrow I'm planning on going to the gym in the morning and might try a mix-up routine like I talked about earlier. I'll start with some running, then incline train, and finish off with the elliptical and stair stepper.
Wednesday is my usual morning off from working out, but I might try to squeeze in something like 30 Day Shred, just to help recover a little more from Saturday. Still undecided on what to do Thursday and Friday.
That's about it. No real plans today. Dinner will probably be a broccoli/tofu recipe from the Biggest Loser cookbook since we have so much broccoli leftover from the party.
FOOD:
breakfast:
pear- 1
oatmeal w/ protein powder- 3
lunch:
popcorn ball- 1
chips- 1
guacamole- 2
cheese sandwich- 2
snack:
s.f. pudding- 1
cantaloupe cubes- 1
grapes- 1
chips- 1
salsa- 0
dinner:
Teriyaki Broccoli, Mushrooms & Tofu- 4
post-dinner:
ice cream- 4
s.f. pudding- 1
total points used: 23/23
activity points: Biggest Loser Boot camp, all levels- 3
WAPs: -42/35 remaining
EXERCISE:
Did the Biggest Loser Boot Camp DVD. I hate lunges so god damn much. I've grown to be okay with squats, but lunges can still suck it.
Wednesday is my usual morning off from working out, but I might try to squeeze in something like 30 Day Shred, just to help recover a little more from Saturday. Still undecided on what to do Thursday and Friday.
That's about it. No real plans today. Dinner will probably be a broccoli/tofu recipe from the Biggest Loser cookbook since we have so much broccoli leftover from the party.
FOOD:
breakfast:
pear- 1
oatmeal w/ protein powder- 3
lunch:
popcorn ball- 1
chips- 1
guacamole- 2
cheese sandwich- 2
snack:
s.f. pudding- 1
cantaloupe cubes- 1
grapes- 1
chips- 1
salsa- 0
dinner:
Teriyaki Broccoli, Mushrooms & Tofu- 4
post-dinner:
ice cream- 4
s.f. pudding- 1
total points used: 23/23
activity points: Biggest Loser Boot camp, all levels- 3
WAPs: -42/35 remaining
EXERCISE:
Did the Biggest Loser Boot Camp DVD. I hate lunges so god damn much. I've grown to be okay with squats, but lunges can still suck it.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
My goodness.
This morning, I am six months pregnant with cheese pizza, cheesecake bites and an entire bottle of wine, amongst other things.
Yeah, I went waaaaay overboard at the party last night. But despite having negative allowance points, I can't say I really care. I mean, I suppose I care, but I'm not at all upset. I was definitely in a "fuck it!" kind of mood, so I thoroughly enjoyed every last bloat-inducing bite and I had fun with my friends. AND, I went back and tracked everything this morning, which I wasn't originally going to do. I'm glad I did. Even though it's overwhelming (and at times, just plain disgusting) to see how quickly points can disappear, it always makes me feel better to track every last point, no matter how bad the damage. Makes a huge difference in the long run.
That was my first big binge I've had in a loooong time, so I see no reason to beat myself up. And who knows- with the way my weigh-ins have been going lately, it might have even done me some good, haha. We'll see.
FOOD:
breakfast:
cantaloupe cubes- 1
grapes- 1
lunch:
alternative bagel- 1
2 oz. avocado- 2
snack:
veggies- 1
hummus- 3
pretzels- 1
popcorn- 1
dinner:
light bread- 1
tuna- 2
mayo- 1
salsa- 0
cheese slice- 1
orange-1
post-dinner:
ice cream- 3
PB2- 1
light syrup- 1
s.f. pudding cup- 1
strabwerries/blueberries- 1
total points used: 24/23
activity points: 54 min. jog/walk/run- 6
net points: 23
WAPs: -42/35
I woke up full this morning. Buh. On the upside, we have a crapload of veggies leftover since not as many people showed up as I thought would. All I can think of eating today without feeling sick are fruits and veggies. Anything else sounds too heavy.
EXERCISE:
By some miracle, I made it out of the house this morning to run. Well... Sorta... It ended up being more of a jog/run with LOTS of walking intervals. I was really just too heavy with food and booze to do a full-out run without passing out and/or crapping my pants. I took things slow and steady, but still managed to burn a decent amount of calories. I wanted to wait until later in the day to exercise since my stomach was still so full, but I knew if I put it off any longer, I wouldn't do anything at all. And not doing anything just isn't an option anymore.
=====================================
So, all in all, I'm in a pretty good mood. I had a good time, got some junk food fixes out of my system and tried to keep things as stable as I could by keeping up with my exercise. And if I gain this week, oh well. I have no qualms about holding myself accountable. It's easier and almost empowering to take full responsibility for my actions, be they positive or negative.
Lastly, I don't think we went to bed until sometime between 2:30 and 3 am, so I think a nap is in order later today, haha.
Yeah, I went waaaaay overboard at the party last night. But despite having negative allowance points, I can't say I really care. I mean, I suppose I care, but I'm not at all upset. I was definitely in a "fuck it!" kind of mood, so I thoroughly enjoyed every last bloat-inducing bite and I had fun with my friends. AND, I went back and tracked everything this morning, which I wasn't originally going to do. I'm glad I did. Even though it's overwhelming (and at times, just plain disgusting) to see how quickly points can disappear, it always makes me feel better to track every last point, no matter how bad the damage. Makes a huge difference in the long run.
That was my first big binge I've had in a loooong time, so I see no reason to beat myself up. And who knows- with the way my weigh-ins have been going lately, it might have even done me some good, haha. We'll see.
FOOD:
breakfast:
cantaloupe cubes- 1
grapes- 1
lunch:
alternative bagel- 1
2 oz. avocado- 2
snack:
veggies- 1
hummus- 3
pretzels- 1
popcorn- 1
dinner:
light bread- 1
tuna- 2
mayo- 1
salsa- 0
cheese slice- 1
orange-1
post-dinner:
ice cream- 3
PB2- 1
light syrup- 1
s.f. pudding cup- 1
strabwerries/blueberries- 1
total points used: 24/23
activity points: 54 min. jog/walk/run- 6
net points: 23
WAPs: -42/35
I woke up full this morning. Buh. On the upside, we have a crapload of veggies leftover since not as many people showed up as I thought would. All I can think of eating today without feeling sick are fruits and veggies. Anything else sounds too heavy.
EXERCISE:
By some miracle, I made it out of the house this morning to run. Well... Sorta... It ended up being more of a jog/run with LOTS of walking intervals. I was really just too heavy with food and booze to do a full-out run without passing out and/or crapping my pants. I took things slow and steady, but still managed to burn a decent amount of calories. I wanted to wait until later in the day to exercise since my stomach was still so full, but I knew if I put it off any longer, I wouldn't do anything at all. And not doing anything just isn't an option anymore.
=====================================
So, all in all, I'm in a pretty good mood. I had a good time, got some junk food fixes out of my system and tried to keep things as stable as I could by keeping up with my exercise. And if I gain this week, oh well. I have no qualms about holding myself accountable. It's easier and almost empowering to take full responsibility for my actions, be they positive or negative.
Lastly, I don't think we went to bed until sometime between 2:30 and 3 am, so I think a nap is in order later today, haha.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Hooray for new things.
Went over my points a bit with some ice cream last night. But y'know what? It was light, creamy and delicious and it made my soul feel better. So there, haha.
FOOD:
breakfast:
egg beaters- 1
salsa- 0
onion alternative bagel- 1
1 oz. avocado- 1
lunch:
sandwich thin- 1
chicken slices- 1
r.f. pepperjack cheese- 1
1 oz. avocado- 1
cantaloupe cubes/grapes- 3
snack:
bell pepper strips- 0
popcorn- 1
dinner:
wine- 8
coors light- 2
pizza- 33
pretzels- 1
corn chips- 3
potato chips- 4
hummus- 2
sour cream dip- 3
peach cobbler- 6
ice cream- 2
spinach artichoke dip- 2
crackers- 2
cheesecake bites- 21
brie w/ bread- 4
total points used: 104/23
activity points: 53 min. run- 7
net points: 97
WAPs: -42/35 remaining
So, in my quest to eat more healthy fats, I've discovered that spreading mashed avocado on top of a toasted onion bagel is the shiiiiit! It's so good. I just sprinkle a dash of salt and pepper on top and it's good to go. Great alternative to cream cheese, I think (well, while avocados are on sale 3 for $1, anyway). Though, I've been known to mix weird random things and think it tastes awesome, so proceed with caution if you decide to try it, heh.
EXERCISE:
Morning run. And OMG, it was a great one! It was hard to get going because it was cloudy and kinda foggy, but I forced myself out of the house around 8 am. It dawned on me last night that I should try running around the college campus where I work. I see people running/biking around there all the time, but it never occurred to me to try it, despite the fact that our neighborhood is right across the street.
Anywho, it was fun! I did about 1.5 laps, going from one end of campus to the other. Even went on one of the trail paths in the hills behind the rec center. It was just a much-needed change of pace because there were various hills to push me out of my comfort zone and all sorts of turns that forced me to use my back and ab muscles more.
That said, there were a lot of parts that went downhill, but I seemed to hit them all at the right time, as I was getting tired and ready for a short cool-down.
I'm definitely going to do it again in the future. There were some good inclines that I would like to master at a decent speed some day. The change of scenery was appreciated, as I was starting to get bored with the usual trail I run on. And I actually love running on cloudy mornings now. It was just cool, gray and peaceful. Yet another reason for me and Doug to move to Portland, OR someday.
============================================
Pretty good start to the weekend so far. And my weight was down a bit this morning. Hopefully that trend continues the rest of the week. I'm actually ok with weighing myself daily these days. I was reading some articles that say it's perfectly ok to do, as long as you don't allow it to stress you out and understand how much weight can fluctuate day-to-day. I think it helps to give me a better idea of what works, in terms of food intake and exercise. At the same time though, I still know that what I see each day won't necessarily dictate the results of my Friday weigh-ins. I guess what it boils down to is me just being curious.
We're having the going away party for our friends tonight, hence me burning 700 calories on my run this morning. I'm not against using some allowance points, but a little extra calorie burn doesn't hurt either, right?
FOOD:
breakfast:
egg beaters- 1
salsa- 0
onion alternative bagel- 1
1 oz. avocado- 1
lunch:
sandwich thin- 1
chicken slices- 1
r.f. pepperjack cheese- 1
1 oz. avocado- 1
cantaloupe cubes/grapes- 3
snack:
bell pepper strips- 0
popcorn- 1
dinner:
wine- 8
coors light- 2
pizza- 33
pretzels- 1
corn chips- 3
potato chips- 4
hummus- 2
sour cream dip- 3
peach cobbler- 6
ice cream- 2
spinach artichoke dip- 2
crackers- 2
cheesecake bites- 21
brie w/ bread- 4
total points used: 104/23
activity points: 53 min. run- 7
net points: 97
WAPs: -42/35 remaining
So, in my quest to eat more healthy fats, I've discovered that spreading mashed avocado on top of a toasted onion bagel is the shiiiiit! It's so good. I just sprinkle a dash of salt and pepper on top and it's good to go. Great alternative to cream cheese, I think (well, while avocados are on sale 3 for $1, anyway). Though, I've been known to mix weird random things and think it tastes awesome, so proceed with caution if you decide to try it, heh.
EXERCISE:
Morning run. And OMG, it was a great one! It was hard to get going because it was cloudy and kinda foggy, but I forced myself out of the house around 8 am. It dawned on me last night that I should try running around the college campus where I work. I see people running/biking around there all the time, but it never occurred to me to try it, despite the fact that our neighborhood is right across the street.
Anywho, it was fun! I did about 1.5 laps, going from one end of campus to the other. Even went on one of the trail paths in the hills behind the rec center. It was just a much-needed change of pace because there were various hills to push me out of my comfort zone and all sorts of turns that forced me to use my back and ab muscles more.
That said, there were a lot of parts that went downhill, but I seemed to hit them all at the right time, as I was getting tired and ready for a short cool-down.
I'm definitely going to do it again in the future. There were some good inclines that I would like to master at a decent speed some day. The change of scenery was appreciated, as I was starting to get bored with the usual trail I run on. And I actually love running on cloudy mornings now. It was just cool, gray and peaceful. Yet another reason for me and Doug to move to Portland, OR someday.
============================================
Pretty good start to the weekend so far. And my weight was down a bit this morning. Hopefully that trend continues the rest of the week. I'm actually ok with weighing myself daily these days. I was reading some articles that say it's perfectly ok to do, as long as you don't allow it to stress you out and understand how much weight can fluctuate day-to-day. I think it helps to give me a better idea of what works, in terms of food intake and exercise. At the same time though, I still know that what I see each day won't necessarily dictate the results of my Friday weigh-ins. I guess what it boils down to is me just being curious.
We're having the going away party for our friends tonight, hence me burning 700 calories on my run this morning. I'm not against using some allowance points, but a little extra calorie burn doesn't hurt either, right?
Friday, September 4, 2009
Picking up, dusting off.
Ok, so now that I got all of my post-weigh-in whining out of the way, I, once again, hit up the interwebs to help plot my next moves and keep me focused.
I found a really good post on weight-loss plateaus and different things to try and beat them.
The first suggestion was investing in a body fat tester, so I went to Amazon and bought the one they suggested right away, since it was so cheap. I figured I'm at a point right now where I should probably be monitoring fat percentage more carefully (or monitoring it period, since I've never checked it before). It seems like a simple way to better pinpoint whether or not I'm actually experiencing a plateau.
I'll also try experimenting with the High-Intensity-Interval-Training (HIIT) they mentioned as well. I must admit, this is something that I've always known I should do, but just don't do it. I used to when I first started working out; I would train on the elliptical and then walk/jog on the treadmill before finishing up with a short session of weight lifting. Once I got distracted with trying to become a runner (and later, taking on incline training), I fell out of that habit completely. For shame.
Changing things up while I'm at the gym could make a world of difference. Even though I try to change up what exercises I do on certain days, I'm still essentially doing the same moves each week and I think my body has adapted to that routine, unfortunately. Instead of incline training for 40-50 solid minutes, I could run for 10/15, incline train for another 10/15, use the stair climber and then maybe do some cross-training on the elliptical. I wouldn't get bored so easily and breaking up the intervals would make the time fly by. Yes, it's kind of a "duh!" thing to try, but I've still managed to resist it for whatever reason. Oh well. Also, when I'm running the trail, I need to make a conscious effort to do some sprints. I always wear my heart rate monitor, so I can obviously use that to see how hard I'm working.
I'll also try calorie cycling too, again. I'm trying not to get ahead of myself though because I'm eager to see what the results from the body fat tester say, but I guess I'm a bit more relieved to know there are some other options out there that I haven't already tried (and/or have been in denial about).
So there's my little blurb. I needed to snap out of my pissy mood fast- it's a 3 day weekend, for crying out loud!
I found a really good post on weight-loss plateaus and different things to try and beat them.
The first suggestion was investing in a body fat tester, so I went to Amazon and bought the one they suggested right away, since it was so cheap. I figured I'm at a point right now where I should probably be monitoring fat percentage more carefully (or monitoring it period, since I've never checked it before). It seems like a simple way to better pinpoint whether or not I'm actually experiencing a plateau.
I'll also try experimenting with the High-Intensity-Interval-Training (HIIT) they mentioned as well. I must admit, this is something that I've always known I should do, but just don't do it. I used to when I first started working out; I would train on the elliptical and then walk/jog on the treadmill before finishing up with a short session of weight lifting. Once I got distracted with trying to become a runner (and later, taking on incline training), I fell out of that habit completely. For shame.
Changing things up while I'm at the gym could make a world of difference. Even though I try to change up what exercises I do on certain days, I'm still essentially doing the same moves each week and I think my body has adapted to that routine, unfortunately. Instead of incline training for 40-50 solid minutes, I could run for 10/15, incline train for another 10/15, use the stair climber and then maybe do some cross-training on the elliptical. I wouldn't get bored so easily and breaking up the intervals would make the time fly by. Yes, it's kind of a "duh!" thing to try, but I've still managed to resist it for whatever reason. Oh well. Also, when I'm running the trail, I need to make a conscious effort to do some sprints. I always wear my heart rate monitor, so I can obviously use that to see how hard I'm working.
I'll also try calorie cycling too, again. I'm trying not to get ahead of myself though because I'm eager to see what the results from the body fat tester say, but I guess I'm a bit more relieved to know there are some other options out there that I haven't already tried (and/or have been in denial about).
So there's my little blurb. I needed to snap out of my pissy mood fast- it's a 3 day weekend, for crying out loud!
Weigh-in Day.
Today's weight: 163. A gain of 3 pounds. Stupid uterus. And what's more annoying is that I didn't really get a good idea on how eating within my points worked (or didn't work) after doing the Wendie Plan the previous week, where I ate considerably more.
So my plan of action this week? I don't fucking know. More strength training? More points? I'm officially running out of ideas and it's getting to the point where I might seek out the help of an expert who can look at what I've been doing and point out a perfect fix that I'm clearly missing.
I guess I'll just continue to eat more of my activity points again. I'm hesitant to make any real changes this coming week because I don't know if my gain was 100% due to period bloat or if I didn't eat enough. I won't swear off allowance points like I did last week though. We're having a going away party for some friends tomorrow and I want to enjoy myself. I don't want to go overboard, but I want to indulge a bit, within reason.
ARRRRGHHH. I'm ready to just cut off one of my limbs so I can yell "Goal!" and call it a day.
Anywho. One thing I have noticed when I look over my entries at The Daily Plate is that I don't eat a lot of fat. Even on days where I eat more and go over my points, my fat intake stays pretty low. So, I'm going to try and make an effort to work on that this week. I've been taking my fish oil capsule every morning, but that's not enough when I load up on lean protein and low-fat fiber stuff all day. And it's hard to find a balance between eating more healthy fats and still not blowing my points, but I need to at least try.
FOOD:
breakfast:
egg whites w/ diced tomatoes- 1
r.f. pepperjack cheese- 1
onion alternative bagel- 1
1 oz. avocado- 1
snack:
bell pepper strips w/ PB2- 1
9 almonds- 1
cantaloupe- 1
lunch:
lean cuisine chicken parmesan- 6
snack:
dinner (planned):
mozzarella/garlic chicken sausage- 3
diced tomatoes- 0
potato- 3
green beans- 0
parmesan- 1
post-dinner:
cantaloupe- 1
slow churn no sugar added vanilla- 5
light syrup- 1
s.f. pudding- 1
PB2 sandwich- 2
popcorn- 1
total points used: 31/23
activity points: 40 min. incline training- 5
net points: 26
WAPs: 32/35 remaining
EXERCISE:
Went to the gym again this morning for more incline training. One positive note about my morning was that there was hardly anyone there. I guess Fridays are a good day to go. All the incline trainers were open when I got there.
The workout itself though was kinda grueling because I was in crap mood from the weigh-in. That's been one drawback to working out in the mornings, especially Fridays. If I'm not happy with the scale (which I haven't been for a few months now), my motivation to workout takes a dive. I still pushed through it, but I quit after burning 500 calories because I didn't see the point in doing anymore.
================================
So, here I am, another frustrated morning. My confidence has taken a blow the past couple of months. I've had to make compromises and it makes me feel defeated. I've given up on my 100 pound goal. And that's fine. But I can't even make it to 90 pounds. That is my goal again because it will put me at a normal BMI. And that's why this is so frustrating. I'm not trying to get to the lowest weight possible in the weight range for my age/height. I think that's the impression some of my friends/family/coworkers are under. I'm just trying not to be considered overweight. And it's getting more and more difficult each week to face the fact that I am still considered overweight, despite how hard I work. Yes, I know it's only by a few pounds, but killing myself to make it to the bare minimum is just freaking me out right now.
I'm trying to be patient, but it's been 2.5 years since I started this journey. And although I've come a long way, I'm so full of resentment right now that I can no longer see the finish line. I'm just going through the motions each week and becoming less and less optimistic with each weigh-in.
I know this is turning into a pity-post and for that, I apologize. I'm just being honest. It's getting harder and harder to be happy with myself. And I know that I'm the only one who can change my attitude, but there's nothing to inspire me at the moment. I've read dozens and dozens of articles from health/fitness magazines and websites and continue to do so each week. I have all this knowledge on weight-loss and a healthy lifestyle and for a while, that new knowledge was keeping me motivated. But now, as I search for new things to try, I feel like I'm reading the same things over and over and it just leaves me kinda numb.
I guess before I figure out what food to eat and what workout to do, the first thing I need to work on is getting out of this stupid funk.
So my plan of action this week? I don't fucking know. More strength training? More points? I'm officially running out of ideas and it's getting to the point where I might seek out the help of an expert who can look at what I've been doing and point out a perfect fix that I'm clearly missing.
I guess I'll just continue to eat more of my activity points again. I'm hesitant to make any real changes this coming week because I don't know if my gain was 100% due to period bloat or if I didn't eat enough. I won't swear off allowance points like I did last week though. We're having a going away party for some friends tomorrow and I want to enjoy myself. I don't want to go overboard, but I want to indulge a bit, within reason.
ARRRRGHHH. I'm ready to just cut off one of my limbs so I can yell "Goal!" and call it a day.
Anywho. One thing I have noticed when I look over my entries at The Daily Plate is that I don't eat a lot of fat. Even on days where I eat more and go over my points, my fat intake stays pretty low. So, I'm going to try and make an effort to work on that this week. I've been taking my fish oil capsule every morning, but that's not enough when I load up on lean protein and low-fat fiber stuff all day. And it's hard to find a balance between eating more healthy fats and still not blowing my points, but I need to at least try.
FOOD:
breakfast:
egg whites w/ diced tomatoes- 1
r.f. pepperjack cheese- 1
onion alternative bagel- 1
1 oz. avocado- 1
snack:
bell pepper strips w/ PB2- 1
9 almonds- 1
cantaloupe- 1
lunch:
lean cuisine chicken parmesan- 6
snack:
dinner (planned):
mozzarella/garlic chicken sausage- 3
diced tomatoes- 0
potato- 3
green beans- 0
parmesan- 1
post-dinner:
cantaloupe- 1
slow churn no sugar added vanilla- 5
light syrup- 1
s.f. pudding- 1
PB2 sandwich- 2
popcorn- 1
total points used: 31/23
activity points: 40 min. incline training- 5
net points: 26
WAPs: 32/35 remaining
EXERCISE:
Went to the gym again this morning for more incline training. One positive note about my morning was that there was hardly anyone there. I guess Fridays are a good day to go. All the incline trainers were open when I got there.
The workout itself though was kinda grueling because I was in crap mood from the weigh-in. That's been one drawback to working out in the mornings, especially Fridays. If I'm not happy with the scale (which I haven't been for a few months now), my motivation to workout takes a dive. I still pushed through it, but I quit after burning 500 calories because I didn't see the point in doing anymore.
================================
So, here I am, another frustrated morning. My confidence has taken a blow the past couple of months. I've had to make compromises and it makes me feel defeated. I've given up on my 100 pound goal. And that's fine. But I can't even make it to 90 pounds. That is my goal again because it will put me at a normal BMI. And that's why this is so frustrating. I'm not trying to get to the lowest weight possible in the weight range for my age/height. I think that's the impression some of my friends/family/coworkers are under. I'm just trying not to be considered overweight. And it's getting more and more difficult each week to face the fact that I am still considered overweight, despite how hard I work. Yes, I know it's only by a few pounds, but killing myself to make it to the bare minimum is just freaking me out right now.
I'm trying to be patient, but it's been 2.5 years since I started this journey. And although I've come a long way, I'm so full of resentment right now that I can no longer see the finish line. I'm just going through the motions each week and becoming less and less optimistic with each weigh-in.
I know this is turning into a pity-post and for that, I apologize. I'm just being honest. It's getting harder and harder to be happy with myself. And I know that I'm the only one who can change my attitude, but there's nothing to inspire me at the moment. I've read dozens and dozens of articles from health/fitness magazines and websites and continue to do so each week. I have all this knowledge on weight-loss and a healthy lifestyle and for a while, that new knowledge was keeping me motivated. But now, as I search for new things to try, I feel like I'm reading the same things over and over and it just leaves me kinda numb.
I guess before I figure out what food to eat and what workout to do, the first thing I need to work on is getting out of this stupid funk.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
The beginnings of a self-righteous gym rat.
FOOD:
breakfast:
f.f. cottage cheese w/ blueberries- 2
light english muffin- 1
coffee w/ .25 cup almond milk- 0
snack:
carrot sticks- 0
PB2- 1
lunch:
sandwich thin- 1
chicken slices- 1
r.f. pepperjack- 1
2 cups WW progresso vegetable soup- 2
snack:
9 almonds- 1
soy nut mix- 2
dinner:
salmon- 3
spinach/tomatoes/splash white wine- 1
6 brussel sprouts w/ 1 tsp. olive oil- 1
1 oz. avocado- 1
post-dinner:
9 almonds- 1
3 prunes- 1
fudge bar- 1
almond milk- 1
grapes- 1
cantaloupe- 1
total points used: 24/23
activity points: 45 min. incline training- 6
net points: 23
WAPs: 35/35 remaining
Still not sure what my afternoon snack will be. Either a Lightfull smoothie or a packet of soy nut mix. Dinner will be some salmon sauteed with spinach, diced tomatoes, garlic, Ivar's Seafood Seasoning and a splash of white wine. God, it's so friggin' good.
EXERCISE:
Went to the gym this morning. It was a tough decision because quiz ran late last night and I didn't sleep all that well. But, somehow, between weird dreams and getting overheated, I managed to wake up 6 minutes before 5am. I rolled out of bed and started getting ready.
I was pretty pissed that the incline trainers were taken when I got there. Technically, there was one open, but it wouldn't turn on. So I ran on a regular treadmill for about 10 minutes until an incline trainer opened up. I know I'm not the only one getting up at 5 am to work out before work; I respect every person that I see at the gym for joining me in that decision. But man, I hate it when people hog up the incline trainers and don't turn on the incline! These machines are specially designed to go up to a 30% grade. Yet people use them to walk at 0% at 3.5 mph AND use the handlebars (I'm sorry, but when I see people using the handlebars at that pace, it irritates me. Walking at a moderate pace is one thing, but using the handlebars takes your heart rate down even more).
Anywho, the incline trainers are right in front of the TVs, so they tend to go pretty quick. And when they do, I start getting pissy and judgmental toward the people using them to walk/run at 0% grade when there are a dozen other perfectly good treadmills for the non-incline people. Sigh. I know, I'm being an ass, but if I'm getting up at 5 am to go to the gym, I want my incline trainer without having to wait, dang it! This is why I hope to buy my own someday. Oh, what a happy day that will be.
==============================
In other news, I've been weighing myself the past few days and there's no way in hell I'm showing a loss tomorrow. As soon as my period hit on Monday, I shot up 5 pounds over the next few days, despite having a perfect food/exercise week. So depressing. Not only because of the scale, but physically too. I've been doing sit-ups for the past week and finally noticed my stomach smoothing out. But as soon as the period hit, I looked 6 months pregnant. Nice.
I know I said earlier this week that I wasn't going to pay as much attention to the numbers on the scale, but for crying out loud- when the hell am I gonna see 158? It's September already, man! I thought I would see that number in July, August at the latest and it just seems the world is against me every Friday morning. Buh. Oh well.
I'm actually feeling pretty good this morning, so I'll stop trying to put myself in a bad mood over something I simply had no control over this week. One benefit to getting up early to go to the gym is that when I'm done working out and walking to my car, the sun is just starting to come up and the sky looks so beautiful. It really is a good way to start the morning. Then I come home, shower, get dressed and slowly enjoy my breakfast with warm coffee. I don't know, I just have that lovey-dovey-hippy-optimistic feeling before I go to work, which I certainly never had before when I worked out in the evenings, haha.
breakfast:
f.f. cottage cheese w/ blueberries- 2
light english muffin- 1
coffee w/ .25 cup almond milk- 0
snack:
carrot sticks- 0
PB2- 1
lunch:
sandwich thin- 1
chicken slices- 1
r.f. pepperjack- 1
2 cups WW progresso vegetable soup- 2
snack:
9 almonds- 1
soy nut mix- 2
dinner:
salmon- 3
spinach/tomatoes/splash white wine- 1
6 brussel sprouts w/ 1 tsp. olive oil- 1
1 oz. avocado- 1
post-dinner:
9 almonds- 1
3 prunes- 1
fudge bar- 1
almond milk- 1
grapes- 1
cantaloupe- 1
total points used: 24/23
activity points: 45 min. incline training- 6
net points: 23
WAPs: 35/35 remaining
Still not sure what my afternoon snack will be. Either a Lightfull smoothie or a packet of soy nut mix. Dinner will be some salmon sauteed with spinach, diced tomatoes, garlic, Ivar's Seafood Seasoning and a splash of white wine. God, it's so friggin' good.
EXERCISE:
Went to the gym this morning. It was a tough decision because quiz ran late last night and I didn't sleep all that well. But, somehow, between weird dreams and getting overheated, I managed to wake up 6 minutes before 5am. I rolled out of bed and started getting ready.
I was pretty pissed that the incline trainers were taken when I got there. Technically, there was one open, but it wouldn't turn on. So I ran on a regular treadmill for about 10 minutes until an incline trainer opened up. I know I'm not the only one getting up at 5 am to work out before work; I respect every person that I see at the gym for joining me in that decision. But man, I hate it when people hog up the incline trainers and don't turn on the incline! These machines are specially designed to go up to a 30% grade. Yet people use them to walk at 0% at 3.5 mph AND use the handlebars (I'm sorry, but when I see people using the handlebars at that pace, it irritates me. Walking at a moderate pace is one thing, but using the handlebars takes your heart rate down even more).
Anywho, the incline trainers are right in front of the TVs, so they tend to go pretty quick. And when they do, I start getting pissy and judgmental toward the people using them to walk/run at 0% grade when there are a dozen other perfectly good treadmills for the non-incline people. Sigh. I know, I'm being an ass, but if I'm getting up at 5 am to go to the gym, I want my incline trainer without having to wait, dang it! This is why I hope to buy my own someday. Oh, what a happy day that will be.
==============================
In other news, I've been weighing myself the past few days and there's no way in hell I'm showing a loss tomorrow. As soon as my period hit on Monday, I shot up 5 pounds over the next few days, despite having a perfect food/exercise week. So depressing. Not only because of the scale, but physically too. I've been doing sit-ups for the past week and finally noticed my stomach smoothing out. But as soon as the period hit, I looked 6 months pregnant. Nice.
I know I said earlier this week that I wasn't going to pay as much attention to the numbers on the scale, but for crying out loud- when the hell am I gonna see 158? It's September already, man! I thought I would see that number in July, August at the latest and it just seems the world is against me every Friday morning. Buh. Oh well.
I'm actually feeling pretty good this morning, so I'll stop trying to put myself in a bad mood over something I simply had no control over this week. One benefit to getting up early to go to the gym is that when I'm done working out and walking to my car, the sun is just starting to come up and the sky looks so beautiful. It really is a good way to start the morning. Then I come home, shower, get dressed and slowly enjoy my breakfast with warm coffee. I don't know, I just have that lovey-dovey-hippy-optimistic feeling before I go to work, which I certainly never had before when I worked out in the evenings, haha.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Dinner last night was Green Chile Beef Soup, which is basically the same as my Green Chile Chicken Soup, only made with 96/4 ground beef and cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. Still awesome.
FOOD:
breakfast:
f.f. greek yogurt w/ blueberries- 2
special k cereal- 1
snack:
apple- 1
soynut mix- 2
lunch:
leftover green chile beef soup- 7
corn tortillas- 1
snack:
lightfull smoothie- 1
dinner:
tuna w/ light mayo- 3
baked potato- 2
light sour cream- 1
green beans- 0
post-dinner:
grapes- 1
fudge bar- 1
total points used: 23/23
activity points: day off
WAPs: 35/35 remaining
quiz tonight, so we're just gonna wing it for dinner. I'm thinking tuna salad is in my future.
EXERCISE:
Day off from working out today. Which is probably best since I'm getting back into the swing of things at work (had last two days off). Tomorrow I'm planning on hitting up the gym for some incline training. Still not sure what I want to do Friday morning. We'll see.
FOOD:
breakfast:
f.f. greek yogurt w/ blueberries- 2
special k cereal- 1
snack:
apple- 1
soynut mix- 2
lunch:
leftover green chile beef soup- 7
corn tortillas- 1
snack:
lightfull smoothie- 1
dinner:
tuna w/ light mayo- 3
baked potato- 2
light sour cream- 1
green beans- 0
post-dinner:
grapes- 1
fudge bar- 1
total points used: 23/23
activity points: day off
WAPs: 35/35 remaining
quiz tonight, so we're just gonna wing it for dinner. I'm thinking tuna salad is in my future.
EXERCISE:
Day off from working out today. Which is probably best since I'm getting back into the swing of things at work (had last two days off). Tomorrow I'm planning on hitting up the gym for some incline training. Still not sure what I want to do Friday morning. We'll see.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Last night's dinner was a bunch of spaghetti squash w/ butter, seasonings, and some sauteed bay scallops with parmesan on top. It was super-filling and not a lot of points. I swear, some days I could eat a whole spaghetti squash by myself. I forget to buy them more often, but since they've been pretty cheap at Sunflower Market lately, I should probably make an effort to keep them on my radar.
FOOD:
breakfast:
egg whites- 1
spinach/salsa/jalapeno- 0
f.f. shredded cheese- 1
boca sausage- 1
low-cal toast- 1
snack:
almond milk- 1
protein powder w/ berries- 1
lunch:
sandwich thin- 1
sliced chicken- 1
s.f. smuckers- 0
carrot sticks- 0
PB2- 1
snack:
popcorn- 1
9 almonds- 1
kashi bar- 2
prune- 1
dinner:
green chile beef soup- 7
corn tortillas- 1
post-dinner:
fudge bar- 1
s.f. pudding cup- 1
PB2- 1
grapes- 2
total points used: 27/23
activity points: 48 min. run- 6
net points: 23
WAPs: 35/35 remaining
The scramble I made for breakfast this morning was kinda meh. I just wanted to finish some things off and ended up throwing them all together. The flavor of the sausage kinda threw off the taste of everything else. Oh well. Lots of protein and fiber, so no real complaints.
EXERCISE:
Went for a morning run. It was hard getting going since it's that time of the month this week, but I pushed through it. My speed was a little slower today, but that's alright. I just kept reminding myself that tomorrow (Wednesday) is my day off from working out, so my body can rest then.
FOOD:
breakfast:
egg whites- 1
spinach/salsa/jalapeno- 0
f.f. shredded cheese- 1
boca sausage- 1
low-cal toast- 1
snack:
almond milk- 1
protein powder w/ berries- 1
lunch:
sandwich thin- 1
sliced chicken- 1
s.f. smuckers- 0
carrot sticks- 0
PB2- 1
snack:
popcorn- 1
9 almonds- 1
kashi bar- 2
prune- 1
dinner:
green chile beef soup- 7
corn tortillas- 1
post-dinner:
fudge bar- 1
s.f. pudding cup- 1
PB2- 1
grapes- 2
total points used: 27/23
activity points: 48 min. run- 6
net points: 23
WAPs: 35/35 remaining
The scramble I made for breakfast this morning was kinda meh. I just wanted to finish some things off and ended up throwing them all together. The flavor of the sausage kinda threw off the taste of everything else. Oh well. Lots of protein and fiber, so no real complaints.
EXERCISE:
Went for a morning run. It was hard getting going since it's that time of the month this week, but I pushed through it. My speed was a little slower today, but that's alright. I just kept reminding myself that tomorrow (Wednesday) is my day off from working out, so my body can rest then.
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