http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal.asp?id=ZUMBAGIRLTN ZUMBAGIRLTN's Blog on SparkPeople, home of free diet plans and a healthy living community http://assets2.sparkpeople.com/assets/nav/logo_spark.gif http://www.sparkpeople.com/ http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4791086 After years of holding on to these pants...Express 5/6 white, flair dress pants. I remember my ex telling me I needed to fit into these or he would leave me. And, here I am, the year 2012, with the pants still in storage with all its tags! They're going to Goodwill tomorrow!! I was holding on to them because of what another person wanted from me not necessarily because I wanted to fit into them!! <BR> <BR> I've been cleansing my closets and clothing storage bins and I'm proud to say I al... Fri, 16 Mar 2012 18:29:25 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4790950 I've decided to only focus on the positive when I come here to SP. I'm going to take the negative stuff to a different place, my place of faith. I think when I come here I'm only going to celebrate the good things I've done. There's enough negativity everywhere we turn so this is my "happy place." <BR> <BR> So, what was good today...I took my dog for a lovely morning walk under the sun and in the Spring-like weather. I took my iPod with me and had a soundtrack for our morning walk. Also... Fri, 16 Mar 2012 16:31:51 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4786191 I realize my excuses are isolating me from my own life which seems to exacerbate my health issues. Health is integrative for sure: mind/body/spirit. I'm beginning to wonder if something is wrong with me. I'm going to talk to my doctor because I'm wondering if I need to go to a support group or begin another form of therapy. <BR> <BR> This "funk" doesn't seem to be going away even with resources galore around me. I don't seem to want to socialize any longer because I'm worried my tummy ... Tue, 13 Mar 2012 20:26:08 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4783689 Confession: Yesterday, I gave into the old habits, the ways of the old life I'm trying to release. Lord, have mercy=) <BR> <BR> I am taking a sick day today to recover from a weekend of unrestful sleep (although Friday night was nice) and an unbalanced tummy. I decided my health is worth taking care of and not "pushing" it because that's what strong women supposedly do. <BR> <BR> I did get some sleep last night but I still feel a bit "drained." I think this draining feeling comes from p... Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:35:58 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4780290 <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/9/3/l93400331.jpg">Amazing what a good night's sleep can do for your mind, body and spirit! I feel more connected to my own life this morning. I allowed myself to sleep a bit later than usual and forced myself to stay in the moment this morning (difficult but I did it). I committed to my morning routine instead of just getting into that "whatever" mode. <BR> <BR> Since it's Saturday, and I don't have any concrete plans, I decided to take Pipe... Sat, 10 Mar 2012 08:42:45 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4779723 I've been discouraged and down today. I woke up detached to my own life and feeling very "sick." I have to go back to the doctor because the regimen I'm following isn't working. I'm overwhelmed because I feel like I can't live the life I'd like to live because I always have to worry about a tummy episode!! I feel like I have to carry around a portable potty like I did when I was a 2 year old on a family vacation drive to Disney World. <BR> <BR> Because I'm stressed, what do I do? I turn... Fri, 9 Mar 2012 19:50:25 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4776189 I must be honest...I haven't been committing to the challenge I created for myself! How sad is that? I don't know what's wrong with me. I wish I could figure out what's keeping me from creating the life I feel like I deserve. Somewhere along the line I've told myself that I don't deserve it but why? <BR> <BR> Perhaps I don't need to know the "why," but it sure would be nice to know. I pray for answers, for clarity! <BR> <BR> I'm discouraged about many things and not just the fact that ... Wed, 7 Mar 2012 19:14:47 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4765959 Today has been quite a challenge...I woke up unmotivated (don't you hate that!) and very disconnected! <BR> <BR> I took my dog for an AM walk. I didn't do a Zumba/exercise break at work today but I'm wishing I had now. I had to force myself from an afternoon nap to finish my 15 minutes of fitness for the day. I decided to do some aerobic/Zumba moves while watching Designing Women. It's not the best but it was better than giving into a full blown lethargic downslide. <BR> <BR> Therefor... Thu, 1 Mar 2012 19:51:50 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4764040 I almost gave into the comforts of my proverbial pit but I made myself do my Zumba choreographies from my ZIN 37 DVD...I did 20 minutes worth and had a good time doing it, too! <BR> <BR> I ate way too many calories today but I'm not going to dwell on it but celebrate the fact that I exercised throughout the day and remain committed to my goal of 29 minutes of fitness a day for the next 29 days... <BR> <BR> Of course, I did a bit more than 29 minutes today=) Yay! <BR> <BR> I do feel fatigu... Wed, 29 Feb 2012 19:59:29 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4763347 I have 10 minutes of fitness (a short dog walk in the rain and 25 jumping jacks) completed and only 19 minutes remain to meet my daily goal! I will do a 20 minute Zumba DVD this evening at home. I love having a library of fitness DVD's (including Coach Nicole's bootcamp DVD) because I have created a "no excuses" zone at my own house! <BR> <BR> It's the middle of the day and this is when I typically begin feeling tired and worn down but so far, I feel okay. I haven't eaten aything differ... Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:06:51 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4762307 I created an account on Pinterest. If you're a part of that community follow me...I go by Kimber Dancer on that sight!!! <BR> <BR> I enjoy this website because it inspires many decorating ideas. Also, there are many "pins" that inspire!! <BR> <BR> Hope to see you there! <BR> <BR> Peace~ <BR> Kimber <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/5/1/l512281765.jpg"> Tue, 28 Feb 2012 21:13:19 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4762302 <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/6/5/l658190643.jpg">I've decided to create my own challenge for the next 29 days...I'm going to commit to 29 minutes of fitness everyday for the next 29 days (this should create the habit based on what I've read about creating new lifestyle habits!). I will record a blog here on SP for the next 29 days... <BR> <BR> I think beginning a new commitment on a day that only occurs every 4 years is quite symbolic... <BR> <BR> I like to think that Lea... Tue, 28 Feb 2012 21:10:41 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4748235 Seems I find some comfort in my little, proverbial pit because it's familiar and I am learning that I resist change in a big way!! <BR> <BR> I do have the desire to change...maybe change isn't the right word though. I think it's more like connecting to who I am rather than "change." I have become someone that isn't true to my deepest values and beliefs!! <BR> <BR> I think the pit is safe because it allows me to remain neutral, zombie-esque if you will. Yet, all around me, the Divine is s... Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:41:51 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4741206 This morning I decided to try one of my goodies from my Blissmo Box I received last night. The drink is called Orgain. <BR> <BR> The taste is okay. The Sweet Vanilla Bean isn't overly sweet but sweet enough that it's tasty. <BR> <BR> This drink is loaded with vitamins and minerals (check out the food list...I added it this morning). Also, the protein content is high: 16g. <BR> <BR> I will see if this sustains me throughout the morning. I did add 1/2 a banana to my breakfast so thi... Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:20:51 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4740575 <img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/1/3/l130481390.jpg">I'm about half way through this book and I'm really enjoying this perspective on body image/self esteem. This is not a diet book but a book with a focus on appreciating who you are, no matter what you weigh, as God's creation!!! <BR> <BR> This is written from a Catholic perspective but I think anyone that comes from a place of faith/spirituality can appreciate the author's commentary on body image, eating disorders and sel... Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:45:21 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4737286 My grandmother passed away on 9 February 2012...she was 83 years old. I believe on the other side I shall see her again. There will be no human nonsense standing between us because when we are transformed, we don't remember the hurts or the mistakes. I'm grateful for that. I'm very grateful that I spent time with her over Christmas. <BR> <BR> I had so many kind words of encouragement here on SP. I know we, as a community, don't know each other personally (not all of us anyway) but it'... Mon, 13 Feb 2012 18:15:13 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4728283 Yesterday was a much better day (after the AM tummy disaster). I ate an apple with 1 tbs peanut butter for lunch with a small strawberry muffin that one of my students had baked for our class. I gave in and had a doughnut (which I had brought my students for being respectful and well behaved for the guest teachers I've had recently). My tummy was a bit "off" by the end of the day... <BR> <BR> I didn't have dinner till late because of a hair appointment I had. So, I went by the Chinese re... Wed, 8 Feb 2012 05:08:32 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4726450 I did the ACV (apple cider vinegar) fast for about 27 hours which is actually a record for me...at one point, I was feeling energized but after a few anxious moments at work, I gave into my food frenzy (which I discussed in yesterday's blog). <BR> <BR> Well, this morning, I was in the midst of walking my dog and had an "episode." I had to cut the walk short (very short) in order to rush back home...I made it just in time!!!! My body didn't like being treated nicely (a short fast) then bein... Tue, 7 Feb 2012 05:13:39 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4725931 I am noticing a bit of a depressing tone to my latest blog entries... <BR> <BR> I began the day with a walk with Piper (the dog). I was fasting this morning so I didn't eat breakfast (and still had a tummy upset in the midst of teaching 1st period). I took the time to sit in the quiet of the morning with my dogs around me (read some prayers from my Catholic prayer book) while taking deep breaths. <BR> <BR> I went to school and felt good, energized. After lunch, I began to feel tired, let... Mon, 6 Feb 2012 20:12:34 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4723524 Here is a template for a health journal for those who are interested (template inspired by Apple Cider Vinegar Miracle Health System book by Dr. Patricia and Dr. Paul C. Bragg)...feel free to copy & paste if you feel this is something you can use in your own journaling routine!!! <BR> <BR> <BR> Today is: ___________________ <BR> I have said my morning prayers and intentions and am ready to live in a healthy and balanced way!!Yesterday I went to bed at: Today I arose at: Measurements: <BR>... Sun, 5 Feb 2012 13:31:50 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4723288 Why do I find it so difficult to truly self reflect? I avoid, avoid, avoid. Escape! Escape! Escape! Food is my constant companion these days. I've always used food as a comfort but lately it's become unhealthy...well more than lately more like 3 years. <BR> <BR> Food doesn't judge me or confronts me. Food simply gives me instant pleasure...I eat and I feel an instant "ahhh." Let me clarify when I eat cupcakes, fast food or carbs, I feel that "ahhh." Food isn't something I try to enjoy... Sun, 5 Feb 2012 11:04:47 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4720907 I tracked my food today despite not really wanting to because it's embarrassing how I ate today: an entire order of Papa John's bacon cheese sticks and 3/4 of a Cinapie order... <BR> <BR> REALLY? Yep! I've eaten over 3300 calories today and haven't exercised...I'm so "heavy" feeling that I don't feel like moving (well, duh!). <BR> <BR> Maybe I'll try to do a few belly dance moves and stretches while I watch t.v. this evening...at least that's something! <BR> <BR> I'm forcing myself to ea... Fri, 3 Feb 2012 18:40:45 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4719937 I don't know what's off balance but all I want to do is eat even though I know I'll get sick from doing it. I have images of all the "off limits" food that I want to consume...it's sick and twisted! <BR> <BR> I wish I could rearrange the pathways in my brain so that they support what I truly desire. Instead, I'm struggling against years of bad habits and negative thinking. Lord, give me strength against myself. <BR> <BR> Taking a "sick day" has a new, more profound, meaning today! Fri, 3 Feb 2012 08:19:49 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4719786 I'm so absolutely frustrated...the cycle of food frenzy and feeling fatigued (not just tired) and sad is really becoming a burden for me. <BR> <BR> I took a sick day because I didn't want one more day where I worry about having a tummy attack in the middle of teaching!! I'm so grateful that my doctor's appointment is next week because once I know the underlying issue then I can begin taking specific steps toward getting healthy! <BR> <BR> It's a very twisted and mad thing...I have tummy is... Fri, 3 Feb 2012 05:40:23 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4717214 Beth Moore has written a book about being in the pit and I keep throwing myself back in there...it's dark, it's uncomfortable but it's what I know. <BR> <BR> I gave into the food frenzy even going through the McDonald's drive-thru. I'm so frustrated and don't really feel like writing but am making myself write even just a few lines!!! <BR> <BR> I now feel more lethargic than before...I've been tired most of the day (the weather perhaps?). I'm going to bed early because I can barely func... Wed, 1 Feb 2012 19:45:54 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4715057 I had a tummy issue at the end of my 4th period class which was discouraging because I thought it was going to be a calm digestive day... <BR> <BR> Due to aforementioned discouragement, I gave into a food frenzy upon returning home. I ate an entire package of organic shoe string fries (Cascadian) which was ridiculous! Yet, I went to Zumba despite an aching tummy!! And, yes, I made it through the class without having an issue.....VICTORY!!!!! *Insert slow, dramatic run here* <BR> <BR> I p... Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:13:41 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4715056 I had a tummy issue at the end of my 4th period class which was discouraging because I thought it was going to be a calm digestive day... <BR> <BR> Due to aforementioned discouragement, I gave into a food frenzy upon returning home. I ate an entire package of organic shoe string fries (Cascadian) which was ridiculous! Yet, I went to Zumba despite an aching tummy!! And, yes, I made it through the class without having an issue.....VICTORY!!!!! *Insert slow, dramatic run here* <BR> <BR> I p... Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:13:41 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4709787 I woke up from a bad dream only to enter a morning of no structure or any hint of a good mood....just blah! <BR> <BR> I don't feel inspired to do much of anything although I managed to spend money I shouldn't have spent on a Blissbox subscription!! BUT! You get a box each month full of goodies...it's like college again when you would received that coveted care package except I'm paying someone to do it (is that like prostitution???). <BR> <BR> Oh well...I'm meeting friends later on for co... Sun, 29 Jan 2012 07:51:03 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4708462 I was just editing my SP page and thought "wouldn't it be nice to have this editing feature for one's life?" I suppose in a way we do have a change feature for our lives but it's not as fast as clicking, cutting, and pasting...change/transformation/metamorpha<BR>is is NEVER instant!! I do wish it were sometimes! Going through a transformation is painful in certain parts of the journey especially if you realize you have to face things from the past that you don't really want to face or anal... Sat, 28 Jan 2012 10:44:26 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4705911 No, not because Jan Brewer showed some sass toward President Obama but because I gave into the food frenzies....SUGAR crazy! I had 4 cupcakes...I became lethargic and VERY grumpy (almost angry). This was not a great moment for me! <BR> <BR> I became frustrated because I ate decently yesterday and had a tummy upset this morning...a bad one!! Then, I became upset over a few incidences during one of my classes and I just allowed my day to go to pot! I didn't go to Zumba class tonight becaus... Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:15:57 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4703894 I am feeling quite hopeful since my doctor's appointment! I have found a physician that's a holistic practitioner. He's an MD but he also considers the spiritual side of things as well which is important to me! I really felt he was genuine in wanting to help me reach my health & wellness goals!! <BR> <BR> Hope is a great concept and a great feeling! I know I am well on my way to turning things around for myself. <BR> <BR> I may begin blogging more as I begin this journey. Maybe my jour... Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:19:41 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4700411 I'm going to the doctor today so I took a full day off from work so I could focus on my health and wellbeing!! <BR> <BR> I was able to walk for 45 minutes this morning without feeling rushed or anxious about going to work early. I'm having my lemon tea and Sparking without being hurried or frazzled. I'll get to eat breakfast in peace and calm. I love mornings like this. <BR> <BR> I have a few errands to run before my doctor's appointment. Then, I have a Zumba class this evening so I hav... Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:26:16 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4699801 Is it sad that I'm posting my blog just to earn my points?? Come on, confess, you've done it, too=) <BR> <BR> You have to love this earning points thing because it brings out the kid in me....I want to reach that next level! <BR> <BR> I have experienced food frenzy the past day and a half!! Saturday was such a success then BAM! The Food Frenzy sneaks up on me and I, of course, give in so willingly to its temptation. <BR> <BR> Well, I have to focus on the fact that I've committed to some ... Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:18:56 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4696338 I must say, I'm quite proud of myself because yesterday was an achievement. No, there were no great feats of heroism or climbing mountains but I did avoid the food frenzy and exercised and ate well!!! For me, that is my Mt. Everest at the moment! <BR> <BR> I felt in control yesterday....centered. Maybe making these small steps and not beating myself up when I fail is the key after all=) You read about this all the time but until it applies to you, it's words on a page (whether they're tr... Sun, 22 Jan 2012 07:21:17 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4694687 The rain is pouring this morning and a thunderstorm decided to pass through, too. I feel as though it's a late Autumn day instead of Winter! <BR> <BR> I had a bad night but I decided it wasn't going to have an effect on my morning. I woke up as usual beginning the day with 2 cups of water and taking care of the girls (my canine girls that is). After the girls were fed and had their bathroom time, I did my Zumba MIX DVD and I feel good! I got my sweat on and now I'm going to have a good b... Sat, 21 Jan 2012 07:10:24 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4691709 This morning had a tummy issue during one of my classes...actually I had 2 episodes! I'm blessed to have nice students but it's still embarrassing and inconvenient! <BR> <BR> I'm going to the doctor this coming Tuesday, so I hope to begin a journey toward managing these tummy woes! <BR> <BR> I've not eaten very much today but I don't feel overwhelmingly hungry. I've completed 25 minutes of fitness and am getting ready to go to a painting party!! I'm quite distracted from any food frenzie... Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:46:53 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4687671 This has been another food frenzy day although I haven't gone "overboard," I did do a nose dive off the wagon into the paved road (OUCH!)....really? Yep, really! <BR> <BR> I have wiped off the dirt and grime from the fall and am ready to get back on the wagon! I will keep moving forward!! I am NOT going to get discouraged or down trodden over my mistakes! It's experience, my experience and I won't let the moments of my life go unnoticed! <BR> <BR> The afternoons after work are a great... Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:12:14 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4684103 No sense in brooding over yesterday...today...is NOW! <BR> <BR> I'm getting ready to take my lunch hour at work and we're going out to a restaurant. I'm a bit "weak" right now after going on a 2 day food frenzy, but I will focus on enjoying the meal and splitting it in two so that dinner is taken care of for the evening! <BR> <BR> I'm not going to have a panic attack everytime I go out to eat with my coworkers or friends. I will live my life and live it well without guilt and shame...Vive... Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:09:28 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4681460 God is good...here I am, alive, healthy (as far as I know=), sheltered, 2 funny, quirky dogs, etc. I have another opportunity to live my life! I have another opportunity to choose the habits and actions that will get me to my goals! I am blessed! <BR> <BR> I'm also blessed to have another day to myself so that I can do what needs to get done around the house as well as to some personal reflecting (is that a word) about this past week. This past week was very challenging and my spark was... Sun, 15 Jan 2012 05:43:52 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4679613 Yesterday began on such a high and energetic note and by the time I returned home from work, all I wanted to do is veg and eat. Yep, that's what I ended up choosing to do. I had 2 strawberry & cream doughnuts, cheese bread, cinnamon Chex, french fries with ranch (only 2 tbs), and a coconut doughnut. Yes...in one sitting. The food frenzy (a.k.a. binge eating) won out last night and for a moment it felt good, comfortable. Then, I was tired, cranky and lazy! <BR> <BR> It's now a new day an... Sat, 14 Jan 2012 05:58:06 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4677714 This has been such a great morning...I haven't felt rushed and I have felt accomplished and energized. I was able to do 52 minutes of fitness (Zumba express; 22 minute cardio session from the 28 Day Bootcamp DVD; 10 minute Jan. Jumpstart Challenge online video), eat breakfast and enjoy it (even had 1/2 cup of coffee as a treat!!), do some Sparking and take a shower!! <BR> <BR> This is great! Maybe I need to find a job that doesn't begin until 8 or 9 in the morning=) <BR> <BR> I have t... Fri, 13 Jan 2012 07:34:15 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4676091 I am convinced that fighting food addictions (sugar being my drug of choice) is as intense as trying to break a drug addiction...okay the DTs are certainly not as dangerous but the need for my cupcakes and high carbs is just as strong as someone's need for their illegal drugs... <BR> <BR> I suppose that's extreme but that's how I feel right now!! But, I made a step toward getting back on the wagon this morning...I walked and did a January Jumpstart Challenge video this morning so that's goo... Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:25:00 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4671929 I'm truly frustrated...I'm trying to figure out what my "issue/s" is/are!! I'm asking myself the question if I even want to lose weight and get healthy. I do but my actions certainly aren't reflecting this desire! <BR> <BR> All I can do is chalk the day up to experience and pray for another chance to do better from this moment on... Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:36:36 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4666393 Wow! This has been an odd yet relaxing day...I have done nothing but lie around on my couch watching episodes of Jericho (great show by the way). The food frenzy began settling in upon waking actually. I didn't fight it today. I didn't want to quite frankly. Of course, as the day begins to end, I'll begin feeling guilty and worrying about the physical & biological consequences of giving into the food frenzy. <BR> <BR> This has to stop! I need to mentally prepare & organize for the week... Sun, 8 Jan 2012 14:58:55 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4662642 I had good intentions for today...I took my dog on a 30 minute walk before work. I took both of my dogs on a walk after work. Then, it began. The Food Frenzy. I didn't give in to convenience by ordering delivery or going through a fast food drive-thru but I baked way too many potatoes and Pillsbury Sugar Cookies... <BR> <BR> I need to commit to the Jan. Jumpstart Challenge video before I settle in for the evening!! I will keep moving forward, slip or not slips!! <BR> <BR> The weekend i... Fri, 6 Jan 2012 19:00:49 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4660180 Today is the second day in a row that I've cooked a simple, yet tasty, dinner!! I think hell has officially frozen over=) I fixed baked "chips" with red potatoes, olive oil, salt and pepper. I sliced them fairly thin then baked at 400* for about 25 minutes. They were very good!! I also grilled a small beef tenderloin. I need to figure out how to add some flavor to it for next time!! <BR> <BR> I walked the dog for 30 minutes this morning and just finished my 10 pilates Jan. Jumpstart Ch... Thu, 5 Jan 2012 17:49:46 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4657612 I have completed 54 minutes of fitness today!! Also, I've eaten within reason today but I realized through tracking my food that I haven't consumed enough calories today (I didn't think that could ever happen in my world). I may try to fix a healthy snack before winding down for the evening... <BR> <BR> I have had a slight headache all day and I don't think I drank enough water throughout the day. I taught all day and I always expend quite a bit of energy when I teach. I'm on my feet, wa... Wed, 4 Jan 2012 17:51:07 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4654773 I could scream (and maybe I should)! I did well this morning...had lemon tea (my tummy was a bit wonky from last night's fast food fiasco) and ate a banana mid morning to make sure I didn't over indulge at lunch. I ate well (and slowly) at lunch. Then, my nemesis...cupcakes, fresh ones made by the chef that works at our school! I had 3 cupcakes but I justified my indulgence by tearing off the bottoms of the cupcakes and only eating the tops (with all they yummy, fluffy deliciousness). I ... Tue, 3 Jan 2012 17:17:12 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4652018 I began the day with such enthusiasm and motivation!! I complete 52 minutes of exercise, had a healthy breakfast, then, BAM! The ease of my old habits took over once again...began craving something sweet. I consumed a dozen sugar cookies and decided McDonald's would be easier than going home and having something sensible! <BR> <BR> URGHHHHHH!! <BR> <BR> I need to get this under control, and the thing is, the power is mine! I can choose to avoid the drive-thru. I can choose to go home a... Mon, 2 Jan 2012 18:15:53 EST http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4650337 Good morning! <BR> <BR> This isn't the typical Monday morning for me...on a typical Monday I wouldn't have time to post a blog entry but I don't have to be at work until 9AM, so I'm taking advantage of the long morning (I woke up at 4AM which is pretty typical during the work week) I have and taking the time to reflect. <BR> <BR> I love getting back into my routine. I enjoy my job so I think that has a big part in my contentment with the daily grind as it were=) I especially enjoy the mor... Mon, 2 Jan 2012 04:33:02 EST