LADYMACK24's SparkPeople Blog http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal.asp?id=LADYMACK24 LADYMACK24's Blog on SparkPeople, home of free diet plans and a healthy living community SparkPeople.com http://assets2.sparkpeople.com/assets/nav/logo_spark.gif http://www.sparkpeople.com/ The percent that counts http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5249435 Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration. ~Thomas Alva Edison <BR> <BR> Wed, 13 Feb 2013 17:50:05 EST First Day http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5196062 Day 1 and I weighed in at 150. <BR> Goal weight is 140. <BR> <BR> Let's do this! I'll see you at the finish line. Mon, 7 Jan 2013 23:14:30 EST More excited about the exercise http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5191264 Good Morning & Happy New Year. I know its 5 days in, but this is my 1st blog for the new year! Its the 1st Saturday of this new Year and I am excited. New goals. New plans. New ideas. Its all exciting...but I am mostly excited about the exercise! <BR> <BR> Today, I'm traveling to the outlet mall. Shop? Maybe. Get my walk on? Oh Yeah!!! <BR> <BR> Happy Walking Sat, 5 Jan 2013 09:24:34 EST New Commitment http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5086971 Establishing a new commitment. I'm doing the work. I've just been bad about logging my progress. So this month, my challenge is to log the work that I am doing. Thu, 4 Oct 2012 19:00:05 EST October begins http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5085928 We made it to another month. Here's my wish for you: <BR> Openess to see new possibilities... <BR> Creativity to explore new ideas... <BR> Time to spend with those you love... <BR> Organization to complete tasks... <BR> Boldness to be the change you want to see... <BR> Encouragement to know you are not alone... <BR> Reflections of how special you are!!! Wed, 3 Oct 2012 23:25:29 EST Giants and Walls - Fall http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5054192 So many times I've turned my challenges into giants and my goals became this 26ft wall. I've had to remind myself that giants and walls both can fall down. <em>386</em> <em>306</em> Tue, 11 Sep 2012 10:35:39 EST Up and at it... http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5047450 Feeling much better..."slowly" moving through the days of "to-d0" items. <BR> Will NOT over-do anything. <BR> Will NOT worry about what's not done. <BR> Will NOT not feel bad about it. <BR> That's my story and I'm sticking to it <em>334</em> Thu, 6 Sep 2012 17:47:27 EST My Picture, My Reality http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5045708 <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/4/2/l427308617.jpg"> <BR> <BR> This is a pic of me and my dogs, taken last week in my friend's back yard. Can you say "reality check"? I am not happy with how I look in this photo. It's on...as soon as my back is feeling better. Wed, 5 Sep 2012 14:46:34 EST Oh no...back spasms! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5045551 For two days now I have been bombarded with the infamous back spasms. It's getting better. Yesterday, my mobility was limited...I could only use my right arm. <BR> <BR> The culprit in this ordeal is stress. I have quite a bit on my plate: transitioning to new job, house hunting, sewing projects, ailing mother-n-law, etc, etc. So, I'm resting AGAIN today. In the meantime, I'm going to evaluate how I handle stress. Back spasms is not the answer. Wed, 5 Sep 2012 12:45:32 EST What you have http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5044319 What you have accomplished is far greater than what you haven't. Keep it positive! Tue, 4 Sep 2012 17:19:36 EST First, not last. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5042591 Let prayer be your first response, not your last resort. Mon, 3 Sep 2012 14:40:06 EST Welcome to September http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5040376 As we enter another month, I wish each of you: <BR> Strength <em>323</em> to press forward regardless.... <BR> Endurance for every <em>237</em> , <em>332</em> , <em>363</em> ... <BR> Perseverance to <em>386</em> when you really want to quit... <BR> Time <em>56</em> to spend with those you love... <BR> Excitement <em>244</em> for each new challenge... <BR> Motivation <em>381</em> to lead & inspire others... <BR> Boldness to be the change <em>9</em> you want to se... Sat, 1 Sep 2012 19:20:31 EST Each Other http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5037240 If we treat each other as if WE ARE what WE CAN BE, we just might become what WE ARE CAPABLE OF. Thu, 30 Aug 2012 10:24:25 EST Its In There! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5036596 Finding victory in the small stuff. Reward your self. <BR> Wed, 29 Aug 2012 21:09:24 EST Feel-Good-Mood http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5034860 I'm in a feel-good-kinda-mood today. I have no earthly idea why. The to-do list is as long as ever. But you know what?...I'm gonna ride the feel-good-train til it stops! <em>224</em> Tue, 28 Aug 2012 15:22:43 EST Anniversary Weekend - Dinner & A Movie Is Old http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5026128 Hubby and I will celebrate 4 year anniversary on tomorrow (Thursday). I know...still newly weds :) He's off Friday, but I'm working. We are both off Saturday, but he works Sunday. I'm at a point in my life where I want to make anniversaries, birthdays & holidays eventful and memorable. I want look back and say "remember when we did this?" or "We were here for this..." I want to do something other than "dinner & a movie". I want to do more with this life, my life, our life. Open to suggestion... Wed, 22 Aug 2012 10:09:12 EST Not With It http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5003784 I'm just not with it today. I don't know what it is. Just feel like....blah!!! Mon, 6 Aug 2012 16:33:18 EST Releasing Talents http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4996021 So I watched some of the "water polo" Olympics event. To be a great swimmer and play the game looks incredibly difficult. Man, that takes talent! So I began to inventory the things that I do which use all of my talents. Sad to admit, but many of them I'm not doing anything with and others I'm half-heartedly using. So today I begin my journey releasing talents to become a better champion. I see gold in my future! <em>279</em> Wed, 1 Aug 2012 09:36:00 EST Knowledge is your investment. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4994986 Quote today by Benjamin Franklin says "An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest." I'm investing in learning all I can about being healthy and living a positive life. Tue, 31 Jul 2012 15:20:58 EST Know your limits http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4993623 Try one thing at a time and work it. Don't try to do too much at once. Its better to know your limits, pace yourself and be successful. Rather than to keep pushing, hurt yourself or become overwhelmed and fail. Mon, 30 Jul 2012 18:58:47 EST The best plan http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4987771 Live for today, but plan for tomorrow. Get up and get moving! Thu, 26 Jul 2012 11:49:39 EST Wonderful Wednesday! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4976230 Its a beautiful Wednesday. Take the time to appreciate the good things in life. Wed, 18 Jul 2012 13:38:44 EST Signs of a difference http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4966574 Whew!!! It the middle of July and I have no idea where the time has gone. I haven't been as consistent as I would like in exercising or eating healthy. Nor have I been very good at tracking it here on SP or anywhere. I don't remember the last time I weighed in <em>192</em> . <BR> <BR> In the midst of it all, my clothes are too big <em>9</em> ; I'm not winded during my walk; all apparent signs that I have been doing something right <em>224</em> Thu, 12 Jul 2012 02:50:40 EST Family Fitness Challenge http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4890082 Our family reunion is this July. This is the first year we incorporated a Family Fitness Challenge - starting Monday - May 21 thru Saturday (Morning) July 21 The challenge is to exercise & eat healthy for the next 60 days. <BR> <BR> Exercise 30-45 minutes 3-4x per week <BR> Half your plate of fruit & vegetable <BR> Half your plate protein & grains (No white <BR> No sweet drinks (coffee, soda, tea) <BR> No fast food, fried foods <BR> No candy, cakes, pies, etc <BR> No smoking <BR> <BR> I'm... Sun, 20 May 2012 17:59:39 EST Consistency towards goals http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4882257 So often I set goals and fall short of the end result. Just read a quote about consistency. Will make an effort to just keep doing. Even when I don't feel like doing it, I will look at my track record for motivation. Tue, 15 May 2012 09:40:37 EST Spring break over http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4805054 Well, my spring break has come and gone. It's back to the ole j-o-b... it was a good week, just gone too soon. This week is full and should move just as fast. y goal is to stick to my goals. Mon, 26 Mar 2012 07:29:15 EST Remember Your Motivation http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4802577 There is always something that create a spark and causes us to want better, do better. For me, it was looking at older pictures & remembering my active lifestyle. We've all heard all the benefits to a healthy, active lifestyle. But it all weighs on your motivation to make healthy living a way of life. Renew your motivation...I have. Sat, 24 Mar 2012 12:02:50 EST Pure fun... http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4800167 Yesterday I took my dogs to this new dog park <em>313</em> . They ran. I ran. <em>312</em> We played fetch and chase. I don't know who had more fun...me or them <em>334</em> . I don't know which was more fun - watching them have fun or the fact that I could have fun with them. The day was so pretty...not too hot not too cold. It was a perfect day for fun...pure fun and we enjoyed it! Thu, 22 Mar 2012 17:32:13 EST Day 3 of Spring Break http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4798138 It's already Wednesday. I don't feel like I've accomplished much even though I know I have. If nothing else, yesterday was amazing. I went to meet with someone concerning my career path. The meeting turned into an interview and a new job opportunity. So amazing... keep putting your best forward...your reward is on the way! Wed, 21 Mar 2012 14:35:56 EST Spring Break - Yay! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4795251 Today is <em>249</em> of Spring Break for me... <em>244</em> <em>224</em> <BR> <BR> First on the agenda...is absolutely nothing. Today has been a day full of surfing the internet, watching TV, texting, and chilling with the hubby. Love it! Oh, and I got in some cardio & a set of crunches. Will do some Zumba this evening. <BR> <BR> Priority is to get some spring cleaning done, sewing done, start website, follow-up with previous clients, and hang out with my babies (puppies) <img src... Mon, 19 Mar 2012 15:03:53 EST You are... http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4791980 You are stronger than you think. Believe in yourself. Don't forget your goals and enjoy your weekend. <BR> <BR> <em>137</em> Happy St. Patrick's Day <em>137</em> Sat, 17 Mar 2012 11:44:45 EST In this together http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4785188 When it seems like you can't keep going, remember those that support what you are doing. Seek out those that will tell you the truth...not just what you want to hear. Reflect on what you have accomplished. And always remember, your goal my be your own, but you are not alone. <BR> <BR> Enjoy your Tuesday! Tue, 13 Mar 2012 09:36:14 EST Up and moving! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4777010 20 minutes of cardio...check. <BR> 40 jumping jacks...check <BR> Muti-vitamin...check <BR> Fresh fruit for breakfast...check <BR> 2 loads of laundry done before leaving for work <BR> <BR> HAPPY THURSDAY! Thu, 8 Mar 2012 09:01:32 EST Scale Failure or Wishful thinking http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4775689 Ok, I'm a bit bummed right now. Just weighed in again using 2 different scales...the results are 10lbs more. I know my 90-day challenge/new year fast resulted in weight loss. My clothes are slack. <em>9</em> Or maybe I just wanted to believe I had maintained my weight. Either way, I've got to dig deep and get with it...and time to get a new scale. Good grief! <em>24</em> Wed, 7 Mar 2012 13:16:35 EST In hot pursuit... http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4774097 As a little girl, I remember getting excited about watching "The Dukes of Hazzard" (and yes I watched it). In every episode I knew "Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane" was going to be some kind of chase with "Bo" and "Luke" or even "Daisy". No matter what, I could count on him to proclaim..."This is Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane and I'm in hot pursuit". Even then back then I knew he was not going to catch them. But he gave the same proclamation every time, without hesitation, without reservation. <BR> <B... Tue, 6 Mar 2012 16:21:04 EST EXHAUSTED - Rest is healthy http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4771353 After a very full week, I finished it off Saturday and Sunday with my drill weekend. I am exhausted. <em>198</em> <BR> Going to get some rest. My struggle will be trying not to think about all the things that I really need/should be doing. That to-do list is more than enough to keep one exhausted. Oh, well. Today, the to-do list, work, house cleaning, and everything else can wait while I rest. Rest is healthy. I hope you are taking time to rest. I am taking full advantage. <BR> Mon, 5 Mar 2012 08:47:14 EST New Month ~ New Opportunity http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4766628 Its another month. That means new goals, new challanges, and new inspiration. For some that might mean the same goals same challenges, but hopefully with new inspiration and new determination. Either way my commitment level is 100%. Fri, 2 Mar 2012 07:31:55 EST Do what makes you happy... http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4764397 Well, well, and well. <BR> <BR> I am back to my short hair cut - - its just all natural this time. I'm excited about it. I haven't revealed it to hubby. But I know he's going to love it. He's been bugging me about if for a while now. <BR> <BR> I've learned the importance of doing what makes you happy and keep it simple. Hope you are doing what makes you happy. It the best choice in the end. <BR> <BR> Wed, 29 Feb 2012 23:36:58 EST Good health is Great Wealth http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4737552 Our country is often referred to as the richest nation on the planet. It is evident in our collection of cars, houses, clothes, expensive travel, and money. Yet, the vast majority of those who have "riches"are not happy. I have always had good health. Never been in any major accidents. Never had a broken bone. It wasn't until I was ill that I really saw the true value of good health. Being too sick to participate in life gave me a new respect for good health. My prior healthy lifestyle was al... Mon, 13 Feb 2012 21:30:56 EST Balance & Consistency http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4729844 Well, well, well. Here I am in 2012. New goals. New aspirations. If there is anything that the last 6 months have taught me it would be balance & consistency. <BR> <BR> Balance: <BR> My work load - My time - My money - My expectations <BR> <BR> Consistently: <BR> Chose to eat healthy - 15-20 minutes of exercise - Relax <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> Wed, 8 Feb 2012 23:31:48 EST Reflection - Support. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4460493 Well, its been several weeks since I've posted a blog. I started back work and its been full speed ahead. While I have noticed that my exercise is tapering off, I have maintained my healthy eating. And for about 2 weeks, I have been consistently consuming 40 oz. of water. I know its not the 64 that everyone raves about but its my success and I'm happy about it. Blog about that next. I am also happy about the 7 lbs that I lost in August. Consistency and commitment are vital to accomplishing an... Thu, 1 Sep 2011 11:39:25 EST Reach. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4433356 Up high or down low; side to side; forward and backwards; under and over. In every direction there lies an opportunity to learn, to grow, and to achieve greatness. Its all within reach. <BR> <BR> Each day is a reminder that its not enough to just have goals set. I need to make every effort to reach those goals...drink water, staying within calories, make sure I keep HEALTHY snacks at home & work, and daily exercise. I can help myself by looking out for the small cracks which lead to self-sab... Wed, 17 Aug 2011 19:50:56 EST Quiet. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4431690 No TV. No ipod. No significant other. No kids. Just the sound of the water hitting the floor of the shower. <BR> <BR> I started back working on yesterday...and already I'm full speed ahead. I am committed to accomplishing my goals. So far I've been consistent with my morning walks. After work I got an evening one in as well. Kudos for me! At the end of each day, its really nice to know that I can create my own sanctuary. Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:18:14 EST Pace. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4428067 The first lap at NASCAR is set. Basketball & Football teams use their energy and playing style to control each game. Runners will place someone faster or slower in a competition to set the race. If you move too fast too soon, you will tire yourself. If you move to slow, you might miss your opportunity. I'm taking the time to find and perfect my pace. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:21:49 EST Opponent http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4427194 It is so easy to look at who has lost weight and/or inches, who's logging minutes, who's racked up points on the challenges, etc, etc. The challenges are great. They keep us motivated and plugged in. I have to remind myself that this is about me. The only competition I have is me. I am the challenger and the opponent and I get better everyday. <em>104</em> Sun, 14 Aug 2011 23:26:26 EST Negativity. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4425174 The inability to see the good, the possible, or victory. It poses itself in our thoughts, words, body language and actions. When people don't understand our quest to live a healthier life, comments are made that are not helpful..."one donut won't hurt"; "its only a cup of coffee"; "you had a salad yesterday"... or my FAVORITES... "You don't look like you need loose weight"; "You wear it so well". To no fault of their own, they really don't know their words are cold and lifeless. Most of them... Sat, 13 Aug 2011 20:53:09 EST Motivation http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4423032 The thoughts, feelings, words, or actions which propel you higher, push you further, and position you to perform at your best. We have not come this far by coincidence. Everyday something or someone keeps us going. Always remember why you push for more. And never forget what you have already accomplished. <BR> <BR> Press forward regardless, in all things give thanks, and learn to enjoy your journey. Fri, 12 Aug 2011 13:42:09 EST Small Choices, Big Differences http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4421191 Whether its eating salad instead of cheeseburger or eating lower calorie foods in order to eat the cheeseburger. Parking further at the store or bringing in the bags one at a time. Not grocery shopping when hungry or taking the extra time to read the ingredients. They are all small choices that will make a big difference. I know I have to get my exercise done in the morning...a small change to help me stay on target to exercise. I know I will need healthy snacks at home or I'm going to crav... Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:47:06 EST I Will Control My Health- My Health Will NOT Control Me http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4347515 I couldn't help but overhear a conversation at the doctors office. A lady was approaching her 40th birthday. She was reviewing the list of medical conditions that she now has to monitor on a daily basis...diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol...the 3 musketeers!!! She was going on and on about how for so many years she felt fine so she didn't bother to exercise or concern herself with eating healthy. She felt fine. Even after her mother, aunt, and several family members on her f... Thu, 7 Jul 2011 15:30:08 EST Only me http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4335616 So many time we limit what we want to do and what end up doing by what we think or what we feel. I've always been told to not make a decision or statement while full of emotion. I am beginning to understand that what I want to do and what I do is limited by only me, my thoughts, and what "used to be". Making more of a conscious effort to do more of what I can, when I can, because I can. <BR> <BR> <BR> Press forward regardless, and learn to enjoy your journey. Fri, 1 Jul 2011 15:12:23 EST