POXYFAIRYPLUME's SparkPeople Blog http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal.asp?id=POXYFAIRYPLUME POXYFAIRYPLUME'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/ Taking a little break :( http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5277466 I've had to take a break from my workouts again. But hopefully not for long. Went to Chicago with the boyfriend over the weekend, and between all the riding in the car and the bad bed, my back and leg is really hurting again. PT was canceled on Tues due to the snowstorm, so hoping today's PT goes well and gets me back into working shape! <BR> <BR> On another note, My appetite has been sooo big lately. I'm pretty sure that's not a good thing. But on the other hand, my bloating has been... Thu, 7 Mar 2013 13:12:51 EST Day 13: Improvements! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5267467 So this is Day 13 of Turbo Fire. My recovering heart rate, and even my resting heart rate, have significantly improved!! I am able to push harder on my workouts. They are still not easY, but they are easIER. Definitely still have lots of work to do! I'm starting to be able to see just a peek of my obliques! I don't think I've ever seen them as much as I see them right now. I am still up 6 lbs, but at least I'm not gaining any more weight. I made a few tweaks to my diet, cleaned it up... Thu, 28 Feb 2013 16:14:00 EST The importance of eating. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5263410 I've decided I am going to stop counting fresh fruits and vegetables in my calories. I've been trying to decrease my calories, due to the weight I have gained. Although most of it is muscle weight, I don't want to continue this trend. At least not right now. I tried to average around 1800 calories yesterday, but with my workouts, it just wasn't plausible. I felt like crap. I didn't have much energy all day, and by the end of the day I was getting light headed and needed to eat some more... Mon, 25 Feb 2013 12:58:32 EST Weekly Measurements http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5260818 Weight: +2 lbs <BR> BF%: -.2% (I made it into the 20's!! YEAH!) <BR> <BR> Waist: -.25" <BR> Hips: same <BR> Thigh: +.25" <BR> Calf: +.25" <BR> Arm: -.25" <BR> Stomach: -.25" <BR> Lovehandles: same <BR> Bust: +.5" <BR> <BR> Overall I've gained .25". But that's ok, because it's in all the right spots! I've been gaining weight as I work out, and this week proves to me that it is all in my muscles. My thighs and calves are rock hard! My butt is getting really toned, and my arms are starting... Sat, 23 Feb 2013 09:04:54 EST Day 6! Turbo Fire! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5259379 WOWWIE!!! What a workout!! 56 mins total and burned 520 calories! <BR> <BR> This blog is dedicated to the things that have improved in my fitness, and I am very grateful for, during this program so far. <BR> <BR> 1. I am skinner today than I was 4 days ago (pictures don't lie!) <BR> 2. My heart rate recovers at a MUCH faster rate! <BR> 3. I can last freaking 54 minutes doing straight cardio!!! Haven't been able to do that since I was young!! <BR> 4. When I walk during the day, I kind ... Thu, 21 Feb 2013 22:55:06 EST Day 4 http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5256713 Day 4 of Turbo Fire done! Only 11 weeks and 3 days to go! <BR> <BR> Today's workout was hard. I don't know if it was coming off of my day off, or the previous workout at physical therapy, or my snack just didn't hold me through. I really need to find a pre-snack that agrees with me. I used to have fruit smoothies with protein powder, but the fruit makes me blow up like a huge balloon, so I've stopped having those. It's a shame, because they gave me TONS of energy for all my workouts. B... Tue, 19 Feb 2013 21:10:35 EST Progress photo http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5254458 Would you believe I've gained 6 lbs!? <BR> <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/2/0/l2026024837.jpg"> <BR> <BR> The picture on the right is me today. I don't mind gaining weight if I look like this <em>334</em> This is my progress for 1 month. <BR> <BR> I have decided I am going to put the scale somewhere where I won't weigh myself. It's not telling me a darn thing, just making me angry. Mon, 18 Feb 2013 07:58:14 EST Day 2: Turbo Fire http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5254101 Day 2 of Turbo Fire regular schedule! I was bummed, because they gave me a wrong DVD in my set, so I don't have the low HIIT workouts. I just did HIIT 15 in place of the Low HIIT 20 for today. It really kicked my butt. Quite literally, it's so sore! lol <BR> <BR> I can't help but eat a lot on days I do these DVDs. I just refuse to let myself go hungry. At least I'm making pretty good choices in food. I've done 2 weeks total of this, so I'm definitely looking forward to my day off tomor... Sun, 17 Feb 2013 21:38:52 EST This week's Measurements http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5252549 Weight: +.6 lbs <BR> BF%: -.5% <BR> Waist: -.25" <BR> Hips: -.5" <BR> Thigh: -1" <BR> Calf: -.25" <BR> Arm: +.25" <BR> Stomach: -.25" <BR> Lovehandles: -.75" <BR> Bust: -1.25" <BR> <BR> Lost: 4.25" <BR> Gained: .25" <BR> Total Lost: 4" <BR> <BR> YTD Lost: 7.75" <BR> YTD Weight: -.6lbs <BR> <BR> <BR> I will be keeping separate measurements for my Turbo Fire challenge. I can't wait to see what results that will bring me, especially after seeing the awesome results after just 1 week! 12 we... Sat, 16 Feb 2013 11:28:32 EST The importance of measurements http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5251540 So... I started out this recent weight loss journey at 155lbs. I started weight lifting and doing very mild cardio, and ended up at 161lbs. I wasn't taking measurements when I first started out, so needless to say I was pretty bummed. I was doing awesome on my eating and everything. <BR> <BR> I started Turbo Fire on 1/26/13, but the next day I threw my back out something awful. I didn't exercise for 2 weeks, then did Turbo Fire for 6 days. Which brings me to today. Today will be my 7... Fri, 15 Feb 2013 11:48:44 EST Day 6 TF: Jumping right in! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5250761 I've decided to jump right in with the first regular week of TF on Saturday. I started with the Prep Schedule, but I found myself substituting harder classes, because the ones in the first week weren't enough. The back is doing amazing. It actually feels better! I had my first physical therapy appointment a couple days ago, and it helped a TON! I can tell my back muscles are getting stronger, and I'm learning to keep a straight back with whatever I do. All I know is, whatever that lady ... Thu, 14 Feb 2013 19:32:52 EST Day 4, Turbo Fire: I love the workout high!! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5248435 After a terrible day of eating and feeling gross, I decided to do one of the longer workouts today. So glad I did, because I feel A-mazing!!! It puts me in such a good mood and gives me tons of energy. Good thing I do it in the evening, because I just ate and now I'm STARVING again. Time to go to bed before I eat the whole fridge! <BR> <BR> One of the reasons I love Turbo Fire so much is because I see pretty immediate results. I'm only on Day 4 and look at this arm!! <BR> <img src="htt... Tue, 12 Feb 2013 23:23:50 EST Confessions of a bad eater. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5247973 I've been having the absolute worst emotional eating the past few days, and it really needs to stop!! I told myself I was going to do good today, but forgot that it's fat tuesday and someone at work brought paczkis. While I am not supposed to eat gluten, I indulged. I let myself eat gluten every so often. Mainly just at the holidays when I actually want to enjoy my meal. So lucky for my boyfriend, he can expect me to be crappy and depressed in a couple of days, lol. I really must get my... Tue, 12 Feb 2013 15:50:03 EST If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5246064 In looking back at my blog entries from long ago, I realized something. I was working out all wrong back in the day. I LOVED strength training, and I even loved the elliptical. I think I focused more on ST, because I felt like it made me strong. I have never been one of these women to stay on the elliptical for an hour, it's not necessary. I never really increased my speed on it, I just stayed where I was comfortable. I just read something last night that said, "If it doesn't challenge... Mon, 11 Feb 2013 08:14:03 EST Day 2: Turbo Fire http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5245651 Day 2 of the Prep Schedule, and I was bored. Stretch 40 was on the menu, and I was not very fond of it, probably because I'm not very flexible right now at all. It was basically all yoga and stretch moves. I've been talking about taking a yoga class, but I'm giving it second thoughts, because it's definitely NOT my favorite. Maybe when I get a bit more flexible later on I'll enjoy it more? We will see. I did 22 mins of Fire 30 again from yesterday's workout. I won't be able to work out... Sun, 10 Feb 2013 21:42:40 EST Day 1! Turbo Fire http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5243937 I decided to get back to Turbo Fire today, but definitely did not give it my all. Going in easy so I don't hurt myself. Not doing the turning and the jumping, or the booty dances. Hopefully my back feels ok tomorrow. I didn't realize there was a Prep Schedule, so I started with that one, and it was much easier than starting out with the Fire Starter Class. Hope to be able to keep up with this program now and not re-hurt myself. I don't think it was the Turbo Fire that I hurt my back, so... Sat, 9 Feb 2013 12:25:47 EST Dreaded measurements of inactivity http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5243825 I didn't bother measuring myself last week, there was really no point. Not much point either this week, I thought, but I did it anyway. Much to my surprise, it looks good! <BR> <BR> For the past 2 weeks while I haven't been able to work out due to my back injury - <BR> <BR> Weight: +1.6 lbs <BR> BF%: -.3% <BR> Lost: -2.25" <BR> Gained: +.75" (in my bust alone) <BR> Total Lost: -1.5" <BR> <BR> So I think I'm doing rather well for myself. I'm considering starting back up with my workout... Sat, 9 Feb 2013 10:41:51 EST But... it's what I've always known... http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5240304 I had a couple of interesting things happen to me today... <BR> <BR> I've been having back problems for about every 2 weeks for the past 6 months or longer. This last flare-up was the worst pain I have ever been in - I could barely even walk for 3 days. I went shoe shopping last night and bought a pair that had some good support, and let my heel hit the ground first. I've never owned a pair of shoes like this in my life. As I was walking across the street to get lunch at work, my calves... Wed, 6 Feb 2013 13:51:13 EST Old blogs http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5236319 I went through all of my old blog entries today, and it was really interesting to see all the things that I've learned along the way. I needed a fresh start, so I deleted all the ones that don't really matter, and kept the ones I'd like to go back for, for reference. I found some of the old foods I used to eat that had really good protein, that I completely forgot about. I'll have to adjust some of the ingredients now, but that will be simple. <BR> <BR> It just took me back to a time whe... Sun, 3 Feb 2013 22:13:26 EST Limited gym http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5211560 So when I moved, I thought the free gym on site would be totally awesome! Well, it is.. BUT.. there is so much I am limited to. The ellipticals are really cheap (it used to be my favorite, but I don't even want to step on these). The bike is good, but doesn't burn many calories. There's only so much stair stepper you can do. And there's no free weights!!!! <BR> <BR> I made a big commitment and got Turbo Fire. I've heard really good things about it. So once that arrives, I'm hoping t... Thu, 17 Jan 2013 13:00:13 EST I need more friends I have stuff in common with. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5206725 I found myself posting this status earlier on my facebook, "i need more friends i have stuff in common with. i wanna get out.. do stuff.. maybe play some sports.. take walks.. ride bikes.. you know, the stuff that makes us alive." <BR> <BR> I have very few close friends. I can count them on one hand. I don't have many acquaintances I hang out with, because I don't really believe in that. I like quality relationships that will last a very long time. I've lost quite a few close friends lat... Mon, 14 Jan 2013 13:09:06 EST Weight gain ? http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5201910 Dear body, <BR> In case you didn't get the memo, I'm not trying to gain weight anymore!!!! <BR> <BR> So... I started exercising about 2 weeks ago. In the first 3 days I gained 5 lbs. Ok, water... please drop off me. I was back down to my original weight a few days later. Now I'm back up 6 lbs. I don't get it? I know, I know.. water weight... but when the heck is this going to stop? I see visual fat loss, but my pants are fitting tighter. ARRRRGGGHHH!!! Can somebody clue me in? I've ... Fri, 11 Jan 2013 10:10:26 EST I don't think people realize the effect food has on our bodies. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4798512 First, before I start, let me clarify something. I am not trying to lose weight. I am not trying to gain weight anymore - I am right where I want to be. I think it's important to preface this with those statements, because it has nothing to do with choices to try one way or another. This is something that just happens. <BR> <BR> I have been gluten free, but I haven't been dairy free. I knew the effects gluten had on me, but saw no effects of dairy. UNTIL I cut it out of my diet complet... Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:02:27 EST Raw honey http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4080993 Per request of my mother, I have to share something else my doctor told me yesterday, that I completely forgot about until last night before bed. My doctor told me to take a small spoonful of honey in about half a glass of water in the mornings. He says it acts as a natural antibiotic. Of course, there's Manuka honey that everybody raves about. But I've read that any raw honey really has the same effect. I bought some organic raw honey last night at the store, and took my first cupful th... Thu, 10 Mar 2011 09:19:23 EST I need some outsiders http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4061344 This is Day 8 of my of my treatment for h. pylori. Here are some pictures of what my tummy has looked like over the course of these days. I can't tell if it's gotten any better from Day 2 or not. The biggest part of my stomach still measures the same. I know it will take a while, I just hoped to see dramatic results, I guess. <BR> <BR> <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/6/0/l605822305.jpg"> <BR> <BR> The nausea has finally pretty much disappeared, but I am still left extreme... Wed, 2 Mar 2011 19:10:47 EST What my blood type says about my digestion... http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=3372211 Not sure how I came across this exactly, but I stumbled up on eating right for your blood type. Here's what it says about me: <BR> <BR> Low levels of hydrochloric acid in the stomach and high intestinal disaccharide digestive enzyme levels permit the more efficient digestion of carbohydrates. According to Dr. D'Adamo, these are also the very factors, along with low levels of intestinal alkaline phosphatase, that make it difficult for Type As to digest and metabolize animal protein and fat. ... Sat, 26 Jun 2010 06:40:54 EST Anti-Inflammatory Diet http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=3349202 I know, I know, it seems like I post a new diet everyday. My friend actually found this page for me that explains the anti-inflammatory diet. She was thinking of all the issues I've been having, and thought it was an interesting version of the "ideal" diet, as we were discussing varying options. <BR> <BR> Upon reading it, I didn't give it much thought. They mentioned eating fruit - PASS! Well, I decided to take a closer look, and viewed the food pyramid, read the details, etc. Turns out... Sat, 19 Jun 2010 00:45:27 EST Any suggestions to get bloating to go away? http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=3339194 So, I've been extremely bloated lately, and it's highly uncomfortable. I literally look 4 months pregnant, and feel like there is a balloon in my stomach that is blown up to it's maximum and is about to pop. I would say that today has been the worst. I wanted to ask all you SP'ers out there for your suggestions. Just a quick refresher - I am gluten, soy, lactose, shrimp, yeast, rye, barley intolerant. I consume none of these foods, except for the occasional goat cheese in my eggs. I als... Wed, 16 Jun 2010 05:54:11 EST My food sensitivities! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=3275918 I had Part 1 of my food sensitivity test today with the acupuncturist. I had some very interesting results, which totally coincides with my findings. <BR> <BR> Foods I am sensitive to: <BR> Cheddar cheese <BR> Cow's milk <BR> Rye <BR> Shrimp <BR> Soy bean <BR> Whole wheat <BR> Barley <BR> Gluten <BR> Yeast <BR> <BR> Which brings on the next thing... it shows that I have a yeast problem (candida). And it also showed problems with my thyroid. I had blood work done for my thyroid last year ... Fri, 28 May 2010 04:15:56 EST My body is detoxing from something... http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=3167755 So, I've had some interesting stuff going on. I tried a digestive enzyme for the first time yesterday afternoon and it did wonders for me! Then last night, after I had the worst swollen throat of my life, I felt like a bus had hit me. I had aches and nausea, and had to visit the bathroom a couple times. Something cleaned me out. Weird thing is, I woke up this morning, and the 'pooch' in my stomach that is ALWAYS very prominent went wayyyyyyy down. My system is constantly moving this mor... Tue, 27 Apr 2010 15:30:28 EST My love for croutons! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=3030801 I have found a new love for my broiler! I never knew what it was for or how to use it, until my mom showed me when we crisped some french bread a few weeks ago. I just made the best ever homemade croutons!! YUM! <em>4</em> It takes time to cook stuff, but I should've been doing more stuff like this a long time ago. I'm forced to eat all fresh foods, so hopefully I'll be able to keep up and make some time to try some new stuff. I also am looking to purchase a bread maker soon, but I have... Mon, 22 Mar 2010 18:42:01 EST Wanna know my secret to weight loss? Here it is. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=3000353 I weighed myself this morning again and I've now lost 4.8lbs from my highest weight since I hit goal back in April of last year. It feels really good! Want to know my secret? I worked out a little and ate healthy! Sorry folks, but there's no other way to do it. I don't believe in diet pills/powders/whatevers or starving yourself. If you stay active, eat for your activity level, and have a little patience, then you have no reason to fret - the pounds will come off, guaranteed! <BR> <BR... Mon, 15 Mar 2010 01:31:59 EST The biggest piece of advice I could give anybody trying to lose weight.... http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=2480390 Absolutely do not tell yourself that you can't have something. Make a conscious decision to say no. Give yourself a choice. If you say you can't have it, you'll want it just that much more. Tell yourself you can have it if you want, but when the opportunity arises, make the choice to say no. It doesn't always work, but in my experience, it was way better for me in the long run. Develop habits instead of rules. Thu, 15 Oct 2009 03:32:20 EST On hold. Ugh. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=2351396 In the midst of my workout just a few minutes ago, I started wheezing pretty bad. I think I am going to put my exercise on hold for now. I need to visit the doctor. Thu, 27 Aug 2009 14:00:48 EST This week so far.. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=2350063 Well, this week is looking good so far. I've done my exercises and have stuck to my pop thing.. except for monday I completely ditched everything, so I 'm not counting it, haha. But the thing I'm worried about is... I exercise for a couple minutes, then I feel and sound like I'm wheezing. Maybe I should get that checked out? I really don't want to have developed asthma :( <BR> <BR> I have not had any caffeine today. I woke up with a headache and have had one all day. I assume it's with... Thu, 27 Aug 2009 03:56:14 EST The Ugly Truth. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=2345045 I completely forgot to weigh and measure yesterday as I had virtually no sleep and was getting ready to go to Six Flags... so I stuck in on today's plan. It's quite disgusting, but not as bad as I was expecting. I gained .5-1", although my arms have stayed the same. Even though my arms are the same in measurements, I can see the definition is gone, because (to me at least) they look a bit "fatter". I personally like my arms right now, because they were way too skinny before. I don't kno... Tue, 25 Aug 2009 12:32:22 EST Surprises and confessions. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=2340421 So, I was roaming around my apartment thinking about my last post here about my weight. I decided since it's nighttime, it's TOM, and I thought I'd gained a few pounds anyway.. I might as well weigh myself at my heaviest to see the damage. I don't know how in the world... but much to my surprise, I have successfully maintained my weight!!! <em>30</em> <em>198</em> <em>104</em> <em>224</em> <BR> <BR> I will, however, admit that I am feeling a lot more flab wobble around when I walk. I'... Sun, 23 Aug 2009 23:36:38 EST Sweatsuit to Swimsuit Bootcamp Wk 1 - Results http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=2045484 The bootcamp started on a Sunday, but I weigh and measure on Fridays, so I will be posting results on Fridays. Here's the scoop - <BR> <BR> Weight: 128.2 (-1.2 lbs) <BR> Waist: 28.75" (-.25") <BR> Stomach: 34.25" (-.25") <BR> Lovehandles: 34.75" <BR> Hips: 37.25" <BR> Leg: 20.25" (+.25") <BR> Arm: 10" <BR> Bust: 34" <BR> <BR> LBS Lost: -1.2 lbs <BR> Inches Lost: .5" <BR> Inches Gained: .25" <BR> <BR> Total Inches Lost: .25" <BR> Total LBS Lost: -1.2 lbs <BR> <BR> It's nice to be back... Fri, 8 May 2009 14:03:32 EST Sweatsuit to Swimsuit Bootcamp Wk 1 http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=2028466 I'm starting SP's Sweatsuit to Swimsuit Bootcamp today, so here are my starting measurements: <BR> <BR> Weight: 129.4 <BR> Waist: 29" <BR> Stomach: 34.5" <BR> Lovehandles: 34.75" <BR> Hips: 37.25" <BR> Leg: 20" <BR> Arm: 10" <BR> Bust: 34" <BR> <BR> My main goal for doing this is to get me back into a regular routine for exercising again. I also want to tone up so I can look awesome in my new bikini! I'm ready! <BR> <BR> Before Pictures: <BR> <BR> <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople... Sun, 3 May 2009 14:41:17 EST Am I weird or what? http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1996929 Is it weird that I keep admiring all of my muscles? It's weird to me. For example: I just had my hand on my leg and my elbow in the air.. I think I went to scratch my arm or something and felt a muscle that I have never felt there before. At least not like I feel it now. Those moments are coming more often these days, and it totally amazes me. It's like.. where did these muscles come from?? I have always hated my twiggy (or fat, in recent past years) arms, but now they are my favorite t... Wed, 22 Apr 2009 15:17:25 EST There is strength in numbers. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1977338 From doing some of my own strength training outside of the gym, I am feeling more confident to go try the free weights in the gym. I am still scared of the meat-heads, though. I know they could probably care less, and will just stare at their own muscles in the mirror... but it's intimidating, especially being a girl! I have learned some new ST exercises, and feel like I pretty much know what I am doing now. I know I would get a lot more results with more than just 3lb and 5lb dumbbells. ... Thu, 16 Apr 2009 05:05:57 EST The Pushup Test http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1969510 I've been working on *real* pushups lately, and decided to do the pushup test! <BR> <link>www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness<BR>_articles.asp?id=1113 </link> <BR> I just wish it had the chart for women and the regular pushups, instead of the modified. But whatever. Anyhow, I did 33, which put me on the high Average. I could have done 1 more, but rested at one point, d'oh! But man, that was a good workout for the arms! I must remember that. I may make my own training circuit for wo... Mon, 13 Apr 2009 18:39:33 EST Someone finally noticed my weight loss! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1935658 There's this guy at work that has been complimenting me multiple times recently. Mainly it's been about my hair. But the other day I was walking to the bathroom, and he stops me and says, "Can I ask you a question? I say sure, and walk over to him. He says to me, "You look nice." And I'm like, "Thank you... but that's not a question!" He hunches over, and whispers, "Have you been losing weight??" I say, "Yes!" And he says, "A lot?" I say, "Yes." he says, "I would guess about 15lbs."... Thu, 2 Apr 2009 04:18:12 EST Think again! Your body won't be 'perfect' at your goal weight. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1926443 I've covered this topic a bit before, but I want to dedicate a whole blog entry to it. <BR> <BR> I know many (including myself) have some skewed idea that once you hit your goal weight, your body will be perfect, and you'll be ready to hop right into a bikini. NOT TRUE! <BR> <BR> Just because I didn't have lovehandles when I weighed 130 five years ago, doesn't mean I won't have them now. I ate my way to packing on these not-so-lovely things, and have had them for a good five years or so. ... Mon, 30 Mar 2009 13:20:50 EST Size WHAT?? http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1921999 <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/5/2/b52471435.jpg"> <BR> <BR> Ok, so I went jeans shopping today! I bought me 2 new pairs of jeans from the Gap - AWESOME jeans! Totally love them, and they fit well! <BR> <BR> So I go in there, and I told the sales lady that I had no clue what size I even was. After going to American Eagle, I had fit into a size 4, but I thought that couldn't be right!! The size 6 (which I thought I would be) was way too big! But the 4 had some serious cra... Sun, 29 Mar 2009 00:52:34 EST My skinny jeans are now my fat pants. http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1919778 Do you remember these pants?? My skinny jeans!? 2/10/09. <BR> <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/2/5/b250942484.jpg"> <BR> I even posted a blog entry dedicated to being able to fit into them again. I was SO proud, because I had not been able to fit in them in a couple years. Even when I was able to wear them, the thighs were so tight I could barely move my legs. <BR> <BR> -- <BR> <BR> Would you believe these are the same pants? 3/27/09. <BR> <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeop... Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:43:56 EST I made it to my goal weight!! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1918216 <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/1/9/b197395048.jpg" align="left"> I can't believe I've finally made it down to my goal weight!!! 130lbs, woohoo! Not sure where I am going to go from here. I still have some fat that I want to lose, but I don't want to make myself look too skinny. I'm just going to keep NOT counting calories, and see where that takes me. If I lose a couple more pounds, I won't mind too much. If I stay the same, I'll just work extra hard to tone up.. it doesn't... Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:28:47 EST 30 Day Shred: Level 1, Day 1 http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1915399 Oh. My. Goodness. !! <BR> <BR> That sure kicked my butt! I was expecting it to be tough, but not *that* tough!! The 30 Day Shred is definitely a good workout to do to mix up your cardio/strength training sessions! Just from doing Level 1, I would highly recommend it to anybody. I love how at the end she says how we feel like quitting, but she won't let us. Then she makes a huge deal about how the workout is almost over. That sure helps to push you along to finish, let me tell ya! Man... Thu, 26 Mar 2009 14:25:22 EST Why processed (boxed & canned) foods are BAD! http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1897580 <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/9/2/b922069737.jpg"> <BR> I ran out of food this week, so I resorted to the leftover processed food in my cupboards. Gained 3lbs of water weight. BAD BAD BAD! Never again! <BR> <BR> Picked up some bananas and chicken last night at the store, so I'm hoping to deflate in the next couple of days. I'm mad it ruined my weigh in for one of my SparkTeam challenges :( Ah well, as long as I get to my goal weight by next week, I will be happy! <BR> <BR... Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:29:35 EST HIIT: Day 2 & Workout Schedule http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1891107 Man, day 2 of my HIIT kicked my butt! I think I need to eat more calories before I do this stuff. Or maybe it's just that intense. Either way, I'm pooped! I found it a bit more challenging than the first day, for some reason. I still got kind of bored toward the end with the long resting intervals, so I think I will be moving on to week 2 next week. My knee is holding up, so I think it will be fine. I may mix up my HIIT between the recumbent bike (which I'm currently on) and the ellipt... Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:52:57 EST