Ellijay at Heart

Friday Weigh In (one day late)

2008-06-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

This week was one of my most challenging weeks EVER in my weight loss saga. No big temptations, no fancy catered meals, nothing like that.

The scale. It has not been my friend.

Last Friday, I posted a weight of 201.5.

Fine.

I stayed with the program, no "cheating" or anything.

Sunday and Monday, the scale read 205. TWO OH FIVE!

Up 3.5 pounds and I hadn't cheated once.

That really made it difficult to focus. I had a lot of negative talk going on my head. You know, the "why bother" and "this isn't working" talk we all know and love.

I knew I was doing the right thing and managed to stick with it. Gradually over the week, the scale went down 203, 202, and today (my official weigh in), my weight was 201.00. So, I can officially say I've lost 1/2 a pound this week.

I have a digital scale, so I don't know if last week's number was wrong and it was correct the rest of the week - I just really don't know what happened.

But, I stuck with a mentally challenging week and managed to post a loss. That's what matters, right?

Staying on Track.

2008-06-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

This morning's weight - 201.5.

Still not where I was, but also not where I had been.

Last week was VBS, so that was challenging, but I stuck with making good food choices. Exercise was out for the entire week. That stunk, but I've exercise every single day this week - that is a big deal for me!

My size fourteen pants are still a little snug, but I can wear them. A reminder to not let myself go too far! I've thrown away all of my clothes as soon as they are baggy and I have a replacement. No sense in having a safety net to gain weight, right?

I've done the math and it's possible for me to be at my official goal my Thanksgiving. That will be tough, but possible. Hubby and I are planning on going on a cruise for our anniversary and I'm already researching their exercise facilities and healthy dining options. I've also bought some clothes in small sizes since I won't be able to find fun summer-wear when I'm ready to pack.

I really feel like my head and heart are in the right place to do this right. I hope to make it - this year!

Back on Track

2008-06-09T08:56:00.001-07:00

I'm eating the right things and making better choices. I'm trying not to kick myself for how far I COULD have been, but that's what happens.

I'm going to have to find a new workout routine. Walking at the park just isn't going to cut it this summer. It so SOOO hot, plus I had only walked about half of my route when I had seen THREE SNAKES. I am crazy afraid of snakes and decided that I just can't handle that. Can. Not. Do. It.

I'll try a different park that isn't so - what the word? - natural. The trails are paved and it has a lot more foot traffic. Hopefully, I can recover from my ankle injury soon enough to be able to run. That is very frustrating!

Our church is having VBS this week, which I LOVE, but it does provide challenges in the weight loss area. It is from 7:00-9:00 and, of course, there's "refreshment." So, I'm picking up 4 frozen entrees and I'm going to keep them in the church refrigerator and heat them before class each night. Then, I won't be hungry at snack time. No exercise this week - just not possible. But, my eating will be perfect and I'll exercise Saturday and I'm going to give myself a 10 day challenge. I'll keep you posted.

Off to lunch - vegetarian lasagna! MMMmmm!

Where have I been?

2008-06-06T13:20:00.000-07:00

Running injury
Aggravation
Depression
Not eating right
Change of medication
Busy
Just an excuse
Fear of failure
Fear of success
Crazy?

Starting over...

Weigh In - April 1st

2008-04-01T07:27:00.001-07:00

According to the scales, I have lost 1.5 pounds this week. Not great, but not bad. Average.

That makes my weight 193.5 and I am 1 pound away from officially losing FORTY pounds! Woo-hoo!

I have a mini-goal of reaching 180 by Saturday, June 14th. (Hubby and I are attending a wedding that day) That is 10.5 weeks away and a weight loss of 13.5 pounds. I think that is certainly doable. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

I got two and a half good walks in this week. Two were about 3 miles and the other one, well, we got completely rained out!! About the time we reached the halfway point, the bottom fell out. I was soaked!! Oh well, that's still about two and a half hours of exercising and walking about 7.5 miles for the week.

Last night I went to a local park and decided to see how far I could jog. Imagine my surprise when I made it .45 miles without stopping. I tried to really concentrate on my breathing and I was pleased. I had no idea I could go that far - that's a major milestone for me.

Let me ask this question to the group: What should I feel like when I am exercising?

I mean, there are times when I am hiking and the climb is steep and my heart is beating so fast - I feel like I am dying. I mean, seriously. I can't catch my breath and it's all I can do to take another step on some of the difficult trails. Then, I'm walking and I feel better. I may not be able to carry on a full conversation, but I can make some small talk. I am not a runner, but I'd like to move in that direction. How should I feel when running - like I am dying, like I'm a-ok? I just don't know how hard to push myself. I want results, but not injury. I want to improve, but I don't know a good rate. Thoughts, anyone?

Hope you have a great week and thanks for reading.

Weigh In 3/26

2008-03-26T05:59:00.000-07:00

I have really stuck to my regimen this week.

And I lost a pound.

But, I'm not disappointed. My tom will be here soon, so I know my body is responding like it usually does. Plus, I have had some great personal victories. Actually it's a nsv. That's a new term I learned this week. It means non scale victory. How cool am I to be using this hip lingo??

I can now wear a pair of capris (that I LOVE) that I haven't worn in about four years. The fact that I haven't donated them should let you know how much I {heart} these capris.
Today, at work, I am wearing a bright green jacket and skirt, that I haven't worn in about two years. I may even be visible from Mars, but I don't care. I feel great.
I've walked about 7 miles this week - and enjoyed them!
I bought an Easter dress this year - that has a belt! It's just a cute simple little ribbon that ties at the waist. I wouldn't have been able to fit into it 10 pounds ago. There's just something about a dress that makes me feel feminine and pretty. (This is the dress, if you're interested.)

OK, that's it. Down a pound, but excited about it. Clothes are fitting better. I am super motivated and excited. 35 more pounds to go!!

Do I get a certificate, too?

2008-03-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

79 words

Speedtest

I found this link from Overwhelmed with Joy, via It Coulda Been Worse.

Let me know if you try it for yourself.

Allow Myself to Introduce.....Myself*

2008-03-19T05:45:00.000-07:00

* You get a point if you can identify the movie that quote is from.

Well, I've been a bit scarce lately, but I'm back.

I basically maintained throughout January and February (and most of March...), but now I'm back in losing mode. I really needed a break from posting about my weight and just wanted to relax. I got up to 201, but now I am down to 196, my lowest weight since... I don't know when. My lowest on the TFTS challenge was 196.5, so I'm even below that and I'm on my way.

I kind want to beat myself up about taking the time off, but I also want to pat myself on the back. I maintained! I never knew that was possible for me. But, I did it. Now, I am re-focusing on losing my weight. Spring is here (basically) and I can enjoy some outside time. What's so awesome is that I know I can meet my goal this year. I want to weigh around 160. I can definitely lose 36 pounds in 2008.

I may whine some, but as long as I keep going, that's what matters!!

How to Phrase an Invitation

2008-03-05T05:50:00.000-08:00

Shannon at Rocks in my Dryer is hosting backwards "Works for me Wednesday" today.

My question is this-

I'm hosting a wedding shower in May. I want it to be a little bit different and I'm hoping to make it a "tea party" themed shower. Encourage everyone to wear a hat, have cute little finger sandwiches, have various teas for guests to drink, that kind of thing...

How do I phrase the invitation? I don't want to just call it a "tea party" because I am afraid no one will bring a gift. I don't want to just call it a shower, because I want the guests to be encouraged to participate in the tea party atmosphere.

There will be guests attending that I don't know, so I can't just casually tell the guests what's going on , the invitation needs to give the guests all the information of a normal shower (time, date, place, etc), plus the tea party theme.

Advice?

Thanks so much!

100 Things About Me

2008-02-15T17:51:00.000-08:00

In honor of my 100th post, I'm supposed to give you 100 things about me. Here goes...

Lisa Kay is my real first and middle name.
My favorite color is yellow.
I have a bizarre ability to be able to recognize celebrity voices in commercials.
I am constantly battling my weight.
I love to shop.
My New Year's Resolution is to spend less than $25 per month because I was shopping too much.
So far, I'm keeping my resolution. (How much longer until February 29???)
I am a huge fan of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. Love them and love going to games.
The shows on tv that I love, I hate to miss. The shows I watch are "The Office," "Lost," "The Biggest Loser," "Law & Order," "The Closer," "Dancing with the Stars," "Cold Case," and, if nothing else is on, "Desperate Housewives."
I'm almost obsessed with "Lost." Love to read spoilers, read recaps done by others, and have even done 1 or 2 myself. My friends and I email each other the day after it airs to discuss the episode and theories and "did you see that?" moments.
My favorite show used to be "Friends." Because of that, I know a lot of "Friends" trivia. I can dominate any "Friends" game. Unfortunately, that's not a skill that comes up often.
I'm not "neat" by nature. I have to work at it.
I am "clean" by nature. Truly, I'm a germophobe. I never take a trip without bringing Lysol and hosing down the hotel room.
My favorite candy is Reese's Peanut Butter cups, but only when I can drink milk with them. Otherwise, I'm just not interested.
I'm very tenderhearted. My eyes water whenever someone gets proposed to (even people I don't know on tv) and to quote from Steel Magnolias, "no one ever cries alone in my presence."
In a group of strangers, I'm usually one of the quiet ones. In a group of friends, I'm usually one of the loud ones.
I have a loud laugh.
I love reading other bloggers' 100 Things post.
I don't have a huge circle of friends, but the ones I have a very precious to me.
I have a bit of a sarcastic sense of humor. I have to be careful when I post because I'm afraid it will either come across as mean or ignorant. If you could heard my tone, you'd know I was just showing my great sense of humor. (Did I mention I'm sarcastic?)
I truly believe that God picked out Hubby for me.
We started dating in high school.
After my first date with him, I came home and said, "I'm not going out with him again."
I changed my mind.
I passionately love him.
Neat story: hubby is 3 days older than I am. When we were dating, his mom and my mom were chatting about that. Come to find out, hubby was born via c-section, so they were in the hospital for several days. I was born at the same hospital. Which means that hubby and I spent the night in the nursery together when we were newborn babies. Cool, huh?
My bday is New Year's day, so even though we are only 3 days apart, we are born in different years.
I knew hubby was the one for me my senior year in high school.
I can honestly say he's the only person I've ever been in love with.
And I like it that way.
We went to separate colleges, 2 hours apart, and still made it.
I attended a college where I knew no one at all.
It was challenging, but I'm glad I did it.
Despite being outgoing, I was pretty shy about kissing him in front of the church when we got married. We high fived first. No one even remembered our kiss. And I like that just fine.
I've had the same best friend since 7th grade.
I can crochet decently.
I can sew a few things, too.
I also like to rubber stamp and make cards.
Despite this, I don't really like the term "crafty." It makes me think of people making things out of popsicle sticks and chenille stems.
There's nothing wrong with that if you're working with children, but I don't want people to associate that with my hobbies. As if I'd give you something for Christmas that I made out of old gum wrappers and held together with modge podge.
My mom was an excellent crochet-er and seamstress.
I had no interest whatsoever in learning her skills as a child/teenager/young adult.
So, I paid to take classes to learn these things as an adult. I'm a real genius.
My mom made most of my clothes, including Easter dresses, up until about the end of middle school.
My friends thought I was so lucky because my mom made my clothes.
I thought my friends were lucky because they got to "shop" for their clothes while I was at fabric store. (Never mind that I got to pick out the fabric and the style of the outfit.)
I was chosen "Best Personality" for our senior class.
I was thrilled with that.
I wasn't considered popular in school, but I had a large circle of friends. I was one of those people that spoke to everyone and, as a result, I never really fit into a "group" at school.
I never got in trouble in school. Never had detention or sent to the principal's office.
I never had a curfew, as long I called to check in and let my parents know where I was.
I've never had any alcohol or abused drugs.
The only problem I gave my parents in high school was my attitude.
From about the ages of 13-17, I thought my parents were absolute idiots. How they ever managed before I came along, I'll never know.
What's really amazing is how intelligent they got between my ages of 18-22.
If I my child ever spoke to me the way I spoke to my parents, I would have a hard time not slapping him/her on the mouth.
My parents showed restraint.
I did get (occasional - and deserved) spankings as a child, though.
I am an only child.
Hubby and I don't have children.
I don't know if we will.
Many people assume we are having fertility issues.
We're not. (that we know of)
We've just never felt that nudge to have one of our own.
We love, love, love children. Other people's children.
Sometimes I wonder if I'm maternal material.
I've babysat toddlers and children.
I've never changed a diaper.
Sometimes, I wish God would just let me see a peek of the future so I could know what He has in store for us in that department.
Hubby and I have a great dog, named Lou.
She was a stray that we took home from a local park on Labor Day 2000.
She was about 4 months old at the time.
I had never had a dog before and was scared of them because of a mean doberman next door that chased me as a child.
Lou is the sweetest dog and extremely low maintenance.
She is afraid of men. We think she ran away because her original owner was unkind. Frankly, I'd like to show some unkindness to that person. Which isn't really the right attitude.
Although we love her, we do realize she's a dog and don't treat her like a human.
My mother and I have the same middle name.
My mother passed away 9 months before I got married.
I still miss her every day and wonder how my life would be different if she were still here.
Other than accepting Christ, her death is the one event that affected my life more than anything else.
However, I am not hopeless because I know I will see her again.
My dad and I are very close.
We like to "argue" current events, politics, and religion.
Some people think we're actually angry, but we're truly just discussing the issues.
We both enjoy it.
I've attended the same church my entire life.
My parents started attending there when they moved down from mountains of north Georgia.
My dad still goes there, too.
Ellijay is the name of a small town in north Georgia, where my parents grew up.
Although I was raised in the Atlanta area, I have spent many weekends with my family in Ellijay.
That's where my blog name came from. If I could live anywhere, Ellijay would be the place.
I got my Bachelor's degree in early childhood education.
All my life, I wanted to be a teacher. My mom died while I was student teaching and I think the teaching part of me died, too.
I went back to school in 2004 and added on a certificate to get into the field I'm in now. I really like what I do.
I currently work full time, but would prefer to work part time.
God has been very good to me.
He's blessed me beyond what I could ever deserve.
I'm usually a happy person.
When I've read others 100 list, they write about how difficult it is to come up with 100 things. This has been really easy for me to do.
I wonder what that says about me.

Food Journal - 2/14

2008-02-15T07:01:00.000-08:00

Today, was a little tricky since it is Valentine's Day, but I read labels, fixed a nice dinner at home, and enjoyed the day.

bfast-
banana with peanut butter

snack-
yogurt

lunch-
half of a chicken wrap,
cup of veggie soup
1/2 pack of 100 cal. Doritos

snack-
mini cupcake (less than 100 calories!)

dinner-
small steak (very lean)
corn
broccoli with rice and cheese (low fat)

snack-
mini cupcake (see above)

I know I ate 2 mini cupcakes, which is not something I should typically do, but it was a holiday and I gave in because I read the nutitional info and allowed into my daily caloric intake.

Yesterday

2008-02-14T06:55:00.000-08:00

Well, I stuck with it yesterday. I had a few moments where I was "starving," but that was 100% my fault for not planning properly. But, I survived. Being hungry is not an emergency or life threatening condition.

Food Journal -
bfast-
Jimmy Dean breakfast sandwich (with egg white and turkey sausage - yummy!)

lunch-
Half of a chicken wrap
Half of a bowl of lf veggie soup
100 cal pack of Doritos

snack-
100 cal pack of Pringles Stix

snack-
heaping spoonful of peanut butter with honey
1 cup skim milk

dinner-
baked fish
green beans
whole grain rice

snack-
1 3 musketeer - bite size

Exercise - walked one mile doing WATP dvd

Back to Basics

2008-02-13T06:15:00.001-08:00

If I were an alcoholic, one might say that I have "fallen off the wagon." I won't go into graphic detail, but it's fair to say that I have been stuffing my face - and the scale has not been going in the right direction.

I have really struggled during the past couple of weeks and today, I am refocusing my efforts. I'm going back to the things I've done in the past that work - food journaling, keeping a record of my exercise, eating "something green" every day, keeping myself busy when I feel hungry, ... You know what I'm talking about.

Starting over - yet again...

Lost Premiere - 2008

2008-02-01T06:29:00.000-08:00

LOVED IT!

What a great hour of television.

Random thoughts...

I'm still so darn curious about who was in the coffin in last season's finale. Just had to mention that. My guesses - Sawyer, Ben, John Locke, or Juliet
I really liked the division of those that want to stay and those that want to leave. John and Rose had major medical problems that are now cured - can't say I blame them a bit! Why does Kate want off the island so badly? I thought the only thing waiting for her was a trial for murder. Also, we know that Hurley starts last night with Locke, but he ends up with Jack.
We're thinking six people made it off the island. Hurley said he was one of the "Oceanic Six." 3 of those people are Hurley, Kate and Jack. I still need to know the other 3 - I'm assuming one of them was in the coffin.
What is the secret that Jack is worried that Hurley will tell?
Why are people asking if "they" are alive? Are some survivors still alive on the island and there is a coverup about that - since they wanted to stay on the island with the special powers? Or is it about the "Others" who may still be on the island?
Timeline - Hurley's flash forward took place before the finale flash forward. One, Jack had no beard. Two, Jack was not yet a full-fledged alcoholic. Notice him drinking vodka in his orange juice while watching the morning news? He's on his way down.
When that eye popped up on the screen, I screamed out loud! Was it Locke's? See for yourself...

POSSIBLE SPOILER...

This is just a screencap of a scene showing "Jacob" last night, but can you tell who it is?

That is none other than Jacks's dad, Christian Shepherd!!!!

I can't wait to see next week's episode...

Weigh In 1/30

2008-01-30T06:40:00.000-08:00

Technically, I lost 2.5 from my last weigh in since I am now at 198.5.

Technically, I am still the same since I weighed in the next day at 198.5

Technically, I am up 2.5 pounds from my lowest weigh in.

But, I am actually not frustrated this time. I think I have lost weight. It is not my favorite time of the month right now, which of course means water retention. I have also exercised several times. I think I am on the right path, but the scale just isn't showing it at this time.

Darn it.

But, I have had some victories.

Hubby and I went away for a ski weekend this past weekend and I stayed on track throughout the entire trip! I took healthy snacks and made good choices when we ate out. Woo-hoo!

I'm trying to maintain my amateur status in hopes of competing in the Winter Olympics

2008-01-25T10:24:00.000-08:00

Hubby and I are going skiing this weekend. We've only skied a few times before and just like to go away for a long weekend and have fun. We don't even own ski equipment - we rent. We live in the south, so we head to the mountains of North Carolina for a quick trip.

I can't go skiing without thinking of the first time we went. As I've mentioned before, I'm challenged when it comes to being graceful. Ahem.

A few years ago, hubby and I took a long weekend to do some skiing. We had never been before and it was just the two of us that went. No sense in embarrassing ourselves in front of our friends, right?

We'll embarrass ourselves in front of strangers. That's much better.

When it came to skiing, I just couldn't "get it." I was an avid roller skater as a child and tween, but skiing just didn't click with me. Hubby, on the other hand, took to it like a duck to water. I needed to take a class and he took it with me. We learned a lot, but it would be safe to say that if this were the public school system, I would have been in the remedial group.

Finally, it starts making sense to me. Class ends by riding the lift to the top of the beginner slope and skiing down. As we're going up, I see a Hill. Neither one of us thought that would be on our slope because it was definitely pretty substantial.

I get off the chair without a problem (I hear that's a challenge for some folks - I could do that all day long). We ease down the slope. The teacher taught us the best way to control your speed is basically by skiing pigeon toed. That comes to me naturally, so I wasn't really having a problem. The farther you separate your heels, the slower you'll go. When you are going down hill, you can bend one leg, then the other and you'll make "S" curves as you go down the hill instead of going straight down. It's a good way to control your speed.

Hubby and I are doing OK as we go down. Then we approach The Hill. Yep, it's on our slope.

Folks, I just stopped at the top of the hill. Stop. People are having to ski around me and I don't care. I kept telling Hubby and the instructor, "I can not do this." Hubby and Instructor encourage me and remind to just do "S" curves on my way down and I'll be fine.

Hubby steps off the hill and demonstrates perfect S curves. That comforts me and so I decide to step off, too.

Swish.

I take off like greased lightning. I am flying down The Hill to what I surely think will be my death. I am literally screaming "Help me!!" "I can't stop!!" waving my arms wildly, with my poles waving in the wind.

Then, I did something really smart.

I turned around to see if Hubby or Instructor is coming to my rescue. (Like an idiot, I really expected the instructor to speed up and help me.) Hubby? Instructor? Can't see 'em. I'm on my own. So, I'm "skiing," out of control, down hill, not looking where I'm going.

Then, I had a moment of clarity: I told myself I've had a class. I should know what to do. Take the proper stance. Bend one leg, then the other. I'll curve and slow down.

And, you know what? That's what I did.

Granted, it took me a while to slow down from my breakneck speed, but I finally got in control, slowed down, went around a curve, and ended up skiing over to the side to wait for Hubby.

And I waited. And waited. What was he doing?? Why wasn't he skiing quickly to come help me, for goodness sake?

Finally, I see him come around the curve and he is skiing so. slow. He's looking to the left, then the right. Back and forth. I'm wondering what he is looking for. Then I realize what it is - he's looking for me amongst the trees on the side of the slope. Bless his heart.

Finally, he sees me waving and comes over. As soon as he comes to me, I start on him, "Why didn't you HELP me?? You or that instructor? No one helped me."

He said, "Honey, no one could catch you. You took off, went around the curve, and I couldn't even see you. Granted, I could hear you, but couldn't see you."

We had a good laugh and I let him know the important news I didn't fall!!

And, you know what, I'm stupid enough, I mean brave enough, to go back every year since.

Today is a better day!

2008-01-24T07:19:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, I ate healthy meals and snacks, drank plenty of water, got in a little physical activity and the scale responded.

Today's weight is 198.5.

Who knows? Maybe yesterday's reading was a fluke.

But, it certainly got me back on track!

Weigh In 1/23

2008-01-23T06:39:00.000-08:00

Ugh. I am like a seesaw - back and forth. Back and forth.

I am up to 201, which is driving me crazy.

But, not crazy enough to stop me from eating 6 (S-I-X-!!!) cookies last night. I had a great day, then had to stop by the grocery store and sabotaged myself.

I think there were only 10 cookies in the pack. I ate 6 of them. The last one didn't even taste good because it was so sweet, and I just threw away the entire package so I wouldn't be tempted anymore.

Jan wrote a post that really helped me out. You can read it here. It's easy to get caught up in the day before, week before, or even month before and forget where you came from.

I am still the same chick that

has lost 31 pounds
watched every bite I ate and made good, healthy decisions
made time to exercise 2-3 times a week

I have the same tools to reach my goal. It's up to me to continue to use them.

I am not failing, I just had a setback. That's the difference between this time and every other time I've "dieted."

I'm starting back today.

Staying Strong

2008-01-16T12:54:00.001-08:00

So far, I am staying on budget. My total spent for the year remains at $7. I'm allowing myself $25 per month during January and February.

And, you know what?

It isn't so bad.

I think it's kind of like being on a diet. The first week is the hardest, but once you make up your mind and make a lifestyle change, it gets easier.

I'm bringing less stuff into our home and, as a result, it's not quite as cluttered. I'm spending less time gone from the house, so I'm getting more done.

I read about these other women who are true homemakers and I really envy their lifestyle. (not envy in a negative way) They have their act together and cook and clean and maintain.

I'm still a work in progress!

This isn't easy!

2008-01-11T13:28:00.000-08:00

In case it isn't difficult enough trying to lose weight, my "spending less" habit is also challenging. It's amazing what thoughts I come up with.

"It doesn't matter if I do this or not."
"I'll just not blog about what I buy."
"What does it matter if I just buy _____? It's not a big deal."

Lies! Lies! Lies!

It does matter! And, I need to be honest about it, too.

Actually, I'm already seeing the rewards of it. Since my credit card purchasing has gone down, I will definitely be able to put more of my paycheck into our savings account this month.

What are my reasons for doing this? Two reasons. One is I really need to establish some kind of budget and learn to live in it. Second, our home doesn't need "stuff." Stuff requires time. Time to put it away, clean it, organize it, store it, etc...

I'm giving myself the gift of more money and more time to do other things.

Then why is this so hard??

Why are there amazing shoe sales going on right now?? I'm being tempted, but so far, I am staying strong.

Blogging Question

2008-01-11T13:22:00.000-08:00

I'm thinking of changing my template to something a bit more original.

Tell me, blogging experts, if you've done this, did you lose your links? I clicked on the code from a free template company, pasted it here, and when I previewed it, my links were gone. Including my blogroll, links in recent posts, pretty much everything in my sidebar except "About Me."

I really like the idea of a new look, but I have no desire to basically go through my entire blog and re-link everything.

Will my links really carry over, but they're not showing in "preview" mode? Or, is this what's supposed to happen when you get a new (free) template?

Thanks!

Lost - Missing Pieces

2008-01-10T10:41:00.000-08:00

If any of you are fans of the show "Lost," you should really go here.

It's a series of clips that weren't aired. Some of them are downright eerie.

Definitely worth watching.

The Flesh is Weak

2008-01-09T10:59:00.000-08:00

and, therefore, I'm making up the rules as I go...

So, this is how it's going with me not spending more than $25 per month in January and February of this year.

I'm really being tested, people!

I met a girlfriend for dinner Monday night (her treat since this was for my birthday) and afterwards, she wanted to go shopping. We ran into a department store that I had already visited due it's amazing clearance sale. (I told about that experience here.) I found a cute denim skirt for summer marked down to $6. That happens to be in my budget, thankyouverymuch.

Then we went to one of my personal favorites: T@rget. I love that place! I wasn't going to buy anything. Then, we just happened to be in the shoe department. My recently purchased (in late 2007) shoes were now marked down by $10 since they were on clearance. I bought the clearance ones and will return my previously purchased ones, saving me money.

Or.

That gives me $10 "free" dollars to spend there since I won't really be spending anything extra, once I return my shoes purchased at full price. (Are you following my train of thought?) I found a centerpiece I "need" for my patio table on clearance for $10, so I am breaking even, right?

(If you're not following me, this makes perfect sense to me.)

Then, I found an awesome shirt. I, for some reason, just LOVE this shirt. It's the perfect shade of yellow for me to wear in the fall to Georgia Tech games. (Not to mention, it will look great with my $6 skirt, too!)

So, what do I do now? That price would eat up a lot of my monthly budget and it was only the 7th of the month.

I improvised. At home, I have two sweaters from Target and I remembered that I meant to return them, but didn't. That should be around $34 credit, more than enough to allow me to purchase the shirt and a necklace I found that looks great with it.

So, as it stands now, I have spent $7 this month.

And, I have no more returns to squeeze in, so I officially have $18 to spend the rest of the month.

All that math gave me a headache. I think I'll have to spend more time at home!

Weigh In 1/9

2008-01-09T06:18:00.000-08:00

My first official weigh in of 2008!

No earth shattering news... I have been sick as a dog, which means eating regularly, but no exercising due to coughing and sinus issues. I am a pound below my pre-Christmas weight! I am now at 196.5. I keep thinking about how much lower that number could be if I could move around, but I have been on the couch or in the bed for the past few days. I think tonight I might try to get some activity in since I am finally on the road to recovery.

Maybe I am the only one who feels this way, but I have to share this.

So much of this is a mental struggle. It's not just about what I eat. It's not just about how much I exercise. I mean, January 2nd'ish, I was really fighting the thoughts of

This is just where I need to stop.
I should accept that I'm this size.
I've done well. I can stop here and be proud of my accomplishment.
I probably can't reach my goal anyway. How many times have I failed in the past?
I could gain five pounds and still be able to fit into my clothes. No one would even know.
I'm just not strong enough to do this. No one else feels the way I do. Everyone else is just zipping through their day...

Does anyone else fight through thoughts similar to these? Maybe it is just me - and that's OK. But, I find if I can just stick with it, despite my feelings, the numbers on the scale continue to move. And, I guess that's what matters. But it is harder to do it when I'm not always confident that I can do it.

Not Spending 101

2008-01-08T07:43:00.000-08:00

Don't go shopping!! Hello? How hard would that be? If I don't go "shopping," I won't end up buying stuff. Here's how Saturday went...

(My goal, in all things, is to be honest. I'm going to journal my experience with not spending - with my commentary - and you can feel free to think that I am doing OK or making excuses.)

So, I decided to stop at a local department store to look for my dad's bday present. I found a great deal on a new dress coat for him, which he certainly needs. Then, like a dummy, I wandered over to the women's section just to "look" for a "minute" because things were on "clearance."

So, this clearance sale? It was heavenly! I found nice white tshirts (both round neck and v neck) for...

$1.20.

Yes, people. $1.20 for a nice, thick tshirt. Plus, this store lets you keep their wonderful hangers. So, I purchased two tshirts for $1.20 each and got hangers that I love.

Then, I found a cute hooded sweater, with matching tank for $7.60. So, I got it, too.

I want to say, for the record, that I have a $10 gift certificate to this store (did you notice that $1.20+$1.20+$7.60 = $10 exactly? Coincidence? I think not.), so I did not spend any money except for the sales tax.

However, in this experiment, I noticed that it would not have been smart, in my opinion, (and this is my blog, after all) to have not purchased those white tshirts because that was a need and a great deal that would not be around later.

So, like a politician, I have changed my position on the issue.

Instead of spending no money until March 1, I am going to spend less than $25 per month.

(Just so you know, I just revised that sentence about 100 times. I started with $100 per month. Finally, leaving it at $25. I reserve the right to go back to $50. )

Here is my rationale:

If I don't give myself some leeway, then that means if I spend $1, I definitely am not keeping my word. In my mind, why bother then? So, I am affecting my lifestyle greatly , but not making it impossible for me to succeed.

OK, that's where I'm at now. But, I haven't discussed Monday night yet...

Resolving

2008-01-04T06:37:00.001-08:00

So, I decided to make one official New Year's Resolution.

I am going to try to not spend any money between now and February 29th.

That may sound weird at first, but allow me to explain. Obviously, I'll be buying groceries and necessary household items. My plan is to not "shop for fun" until March 1. I guess I could say I'm not shopping for myself until March. No cute shoes from P@yless, even with they're BOGO (buy one, get one half off). I've found the cutest london blue topaz earrings I want. Nope. Not getting them.

Truly, I have a hard time really keeping our home neat. We tend to have "stuff" and I'm not good at deciding where "stuff" should go so that it's out of the way, but I can find it when I need it. So, no more "stuff" coming into our home that isn't necessary.

We just had Christmas, so I have plenty of clothes. And shoes. Hubby even got me some very pretty amethyst jewelry for Christmas. So, I really don't need any more jewelry. (Even though I do want those aforementioned earrings, I don't need them.) I'm trying to convince myself.

Think about the impact it can have on our finances if we only bought necessities. I'm sure we could live on Hubby's income alone. Imagine that, saving my entire paycheck. Wow.

Obviously, there will be the occasional "extra." My dad's bday is later this month. Of course, he's getting a gift. Hubby and I plan a ski trip to North Carolina every year. We're still going. Although it will involve spending money, it doesn't involve bringing things into our home.

Truly, I'm not sure if my goal is to spend less or to have less "stuff," but I think it will be rewarding either way.

I'll keep you updated on how it goes.

To Resolve or Not to Resolve?

2008-01-02T10:15:00.000-08:00

That is the question.

I really don't like the idea of resolutions. To me, they carry the connotation of "these are things I'd like to do, but I won't."

But, since I'm not perfect, why not take a moment or two and write down some thoughts on areas I could improve?

I've already been working toward losing weight, so I'm not even going to touch that one. But, I would like to make eating healthier and exercising my lifestyle. I want to start jogging and want to be able to jog an entire mile without stopping. Truly, I want to lose 40 more pounds by 6/14. All I can do is try, right?

I don't think I'll ever be a super duper people-can-drop-in-at-anytime housekeeper, but I would like to make a conscious effort to doing a better job in the day to day stuff. Plus, our room and our laundry room tend to be the "catch all" areas. They both need to be cleaned out. I'll try to do that by Feb. 29th. Sounds reasonable.

Less time in front of the tv. Which would probably help on the above two items.

Work on changing my attitude about people who get on my nerves. 'Nuff said.

Read the Bible more. Which would probably help on the above item.

Spending more time with those I love. Not being as stressed about things that don't matter. Try to be laying down, even if reading or watching tv, by 10:00 three nights a week.

I'm going to stop there. Goodness knows I can't make a list of all the things I need improvement on, but that's a good start!

Happy New Year!

Still

2008-01-02T06:25:00.000-08:00

I found this over at Antique Mommy and decided to play along. Let me know if you do it, too.

Most people consider the New Year time for change. But, what will you STILL be doing the same in 2008?

Still amazed: at God's grace
Still getting used to: being a real grown up!
Still loving: Hubby
Still proud of: how my family handles adversity
Still not proud of: my attitude
Still hoping: to rekindle old friendships
Still worried: if Daddy is really taking care of himself
Still never going to: like shaking hands (germs - gross!)
Still pretending: that I'm not a year older
Still reading: blogs online
Still wanting to read: the entire Bible in one year
Still interested in: making things (sewing, crocheting, ...)
Still not interested in: having a glamorous life
Still looking forward to: traveling
Still not looking forward to: my "annual" checkup
Still failing: to love others like Christ loves me
Still grateful for: God's forgiveness
Still praying: our friends who are not in church
Still not believing in: giving up
Still believing in: Jesus
What are YOU still doing?
* * *
Be still and know that I am God ~ Psalm 46:10

Weigh In 1/2/08

2008-01-02T05:50:00.000-08:00

Weigh in - or not...

Have any of you ever done We!ght Watcher$? I love their program - no prepackaged food required, lots of fruit and veggies, nothing completely off limits - just good, common sense eating and exercising. Well, once you've been going for a while, you can get a "No Weigh In Pass." I'm not officially doing their program, but it's what I'm doing today!

I am already at work this morning and I did not step on the scale this morning. I know about where I am since I weighed a few days ago, but I did not want to get all freaked out today. Just not how I wanted to start the new year - hysterical just isn't very flattering to anyone.

Anyhoo, I have pretty much relaxed my eating habits since Christmas Day and had two birthdays since (hubby's is 12/29 and mine is New Year's Day) and with all the festivities, I just didn't want to see the damage yet. I thought I'd give myself a week to journal - yes, I'm going to journal my food this week, hopefully posting it here - and see if I could make a decent recovery before next week's weigh in.

I hope you had a wonderful New Year's Day and that 2008 is a wonderful year for you!

Weigh In 12/26

2007-12-26T05:27:00.001-08:00

Why in the world am I posting the day after Christmas?? Why didn't I just write my post yesterday?? When I weighed Christmas morning, I had exactly maintained! Today, I am up a pound.

But, this time, it's OK.

Yesterday, I truly indulged. Big. Time.

I ate about a dozen cookies.

And, you know what?

They were my very favorite cookie and they were delicious! I enjoyed every bite.

Today, I am off work and I am one of the crazy people that actually wants to go to the mall today. But first, a healthy breakfast, plus doing a WATP dvd to get my exercise in. That one pound can be gone next week, and hopefully one more with it. If I don't freak out, all is not lost. I just pick up where I am now and go from here.

In years past, I would gain pounds and keep going. It's all about keeping your head in the game. I thought about not weighing today. I thought about not posting today. That's exactly what the old me would have done. I would have just put my head in the sand (if I don't get on the scale, it means I couldn't have gained weight, right??) and never looked at what I'd done. Just the fact that I am posting today lets me know I am not going back to my old ways.

My main challenge for this week is that Saturday is my husband's bday and New Year's is mine. Two birthdays in the week after Christmas. Yes, it's hard!! But, this is what I've already devised my plan for the upcoming week. I'll enjoy a salad or grilled chicken when we go out for Hubby's dinner and for mine, I want to go to a local Mexican restaurant that serves a delicious veggie burrito. Hubby is getting a bday cake with nuts in the icing (I hate nuts!!), plus I've requested a cookie from the local C00kie Company for my bday "cake." Note that: not a c00kie cake, just a cookie. With icing. I'll split it with hubby, then it's gone! Perfect!

I'll let you know how it goes!

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and a great, safe New Year's!

Weigh In 12/19

2007-12-19T05:29:00.001-08:00

I've lost two pounds this week, putting my weight at 197.5. This is the least I've weighed since my weight gain began in 1999!! My total weight loss since I began in September is 35 pounds!

I wore a green suit to church Sunday and I guess the way it was cut was flattering because several people commented that they could tell I've lost weight. It was so nice to hear! I went out last night and bought a new pair of jeans - size 14! Women's sizes are so crazy!! I also bought a pair of dress pants - in size 16. I bought dress pants last week in size 14. The number on the tag isn't as important to me as the number on the scale. And, that's not as important noticing my other clothes are now WAY too big. I know "they" (the experts?) say not to let a number (clothing size or weight) affect us, but I am a numbers person and I like to have something to measure myself with. And, no, I haven't taken my measurements. I know I should, but I just haven't bothered...

What's your plan for the holidays? My plan is to be extra diligent for all meals, except for the 2 special family meals, one on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. I'll also be bringing some crocheting and fruit so that I can keep my hands busy and have something to munch on since it is the day for eating! I also plan on being pretty "good" during my meal, so I can enjoy a dessert - or two - and it not blow the entire week. I've decided if I maintain this week, that is OK. And, I should have some extra time off work, so maybe I can squeeze in an extra workout just to help out.

Merry CHRISTmas to you and your family!

Weigh In 12/12

2007-12-11T17:43:00.000-08:00

I did it!! I've reached my goal for 2007 and I will now share that I officially weigh 199.5 pounds. That is down from 232 pounds when I started in September. Now that I am below 200 pounds, I will post my weight on my blog throughout 2008- I just couldn't before. That number really bothered me.

I tried on jeans last night and I think I am officially a size 14 in jeans (keep in mind, I am 5'7"). I didn't buy anything because my current jeans (purchased about 6 weeks ago) are doing OK for now. In tops, I can wear a size large. I am, umm.. quite gifted in the chest, so going down to a size L in tops is definite progress!

My goal is to try to lose 3 or 4 more pounds this year, and fully jumping back in on January 2nd. My birthday is January 1st and I do plan on having a piece of birthday cake. :o)

Weigh In 12/5

2007-12-05T05:46:00.001-08:00

I have lost 2 pounds this week, making me 1 pound from my TFTS goal - woo-hoo!

(Just as a reminder, this is not my goal weight, just my goal for the end of the year. When I reach that goal, I will be almost at my half way point. In 2008, I want to lose 40 more pounds)

Oh, and in other news, 3 people have noticed that I've lost weight!! That is so encouraging! I have bought new pairs of brown and black pants just because my others were getting big on me and I wanted to continue to keep the basics in my wardrobe. I have taken the others out and they will be donated to Goodwill this week. I am not keeping anything in my closet that is too big for me. I want no safety net!!

The holidays are coming and people are bringing all kinds of goodies to the office. I am keeping a secret stash of 3 musketeer$ bites at my desk to help curb the chocolate cravings. I have also really increased my water intake to help me to feel full longer. I now drink 1 17 oz bottle with 1 breakfast, 1 before lunch, 2 with lunch, 1 between lunch and dinner, and 1 or 1 1/2 with dinner.

I realized this week that I have not had anything other than milk or water to drink since September!! I'm thinking that when I reach my goal (hopefully next week!), I am going to celebrate with a nice cold C0ke! I've really missed them! I've found an easy low fat pizza recipe that is deelish (recipe below) and I think it will go with my Coke quite nicely! It's not bad with water, but I'll treat myself then.

Actually, my true reward for reaching my goal is this. I've wanted one for a few months now, but I've decided to wait until I earned it. Plus, it's time to renew our contract, so I will get it for absolutely free!!

I hope you have had a great week. Stay strong and come up with plans to stick with it during the holiday season - you're worth it!!

LK's Healthy Pizza

1 whole wheat pita
jar of organic spaghetti sauce (I prefer the one with lots of mushrooms)
turkey pepperoni
package of low-fat mozzarella cheese
1 package frozen spinach, thawed, all water removed

I empty my jar of sauce into a bowl and with a whisk, I let the spinach get spread throughout the sauce. (If this is too much spinach for you, you can use half the package or double the sauce. I just think this is a great way to get in some extra vitamins and fiber w/o sacrificing anything. If I am adding any vegetables like squash, zucchini, or broccoli, I add it to the sauce mixture as well.)

Spread sauce mixture on pita, add turkey, sprinkle top with cheese. Bake at 350 until cheese melts. If desired, turn to broil to continue to melt cheese and make pepperoni crunchy.

I freeze the extra sauce in individual portions so that I have it on hand whenever I need it.

Hope you like it!

Weigh In 11/28

2007-11-28T05:58:00.000-08:00

Somehow I managed to survive the week of Thanksgiving and even have a 2 pound loss! Thank you, Lord!

I only had one real treat the entire time (a coffee cup of M00se Tracks Ice Cream - my fave!!) It was a challenging time since we do 2 Thanksgivings - his family's one day and mine the next. I ate a banana with peanut butter at 12:30, knowing we would be eating lunch at 1:00, just to keep me from being starving. I also got some extra exercise in since I was off work. I had to really bundle up, but it was nice being outside.

I'll be attending two different Christmas Brunches over the next 2 Saturdays and, for me, they will be more challenging than Thanksgiving.

My total weight loss is 29.5 pounds and I have 3 more to go to reach my goal by the end of the year.

Weigh In 11/20

2007-11-20T10:07:00.000-08:00

Woo-hoo!

Last week was hormonal and PMS really gave me grief. This week made up for it!

I am down 5.5 pounds! I know that's a lot, but last week, I was up a pound. This kind of makes it balance out, I guess.

I have 5 pounds to lose by 12/31. I'm working on it - big time!

My Thanksgiving strategy:
Going for a long walk Thursday morning before people come over, and making sure to eat breakfast.
Cooking the casseroles I like best so I can use lf soups and cheeses.
Drinking plenty of water.
Fixing a lf dessert so that I can have something, too.
Having disposable plates on hand so that I can send guests home with leftovers.
Waking up Friday really early and shopping all day burns calories, right??
Walking Saturday morning.
Walking Sunday afternoon.
Accepting that this week may just be a week for a small loss. The victory sometimes is just in not giving up!!

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.

I Guess We All Have Bad Days...

2007-11-14T07:38:00.000-08:00

Well, this week was a rough one. I did fine, got exercise, ate the right things... Then.

Just to tell you the truth, PMS hit me like crazy this month! Around Halloween, I was fine. I walked by the candy bowl and didn't even care it was there. Then, Monday, it was like I was a drug addict. I ate more chocolate Monday than I have in the past 2 months. I probably ate a dozen pieces of chocolate candy. I came home and walked an extra mile to try to outdo the damage - and hoped it would help to suppress my appetite. No such luck.

I ate a few pieces Tuesday, maybe 4 or 5, but just couldn't turn off the switch. I'm paralyzed with fear that I am slipping back into bad habits. I have a lot of negative talk going on in my head that I'm trying to stop.

Want to hear my negative thoughts?
I just can't do this. I've got too much to lose. Just accept that I'm a big girl.
I've lost 20 pounds and still don't have any clothes that I need to throw out. Most people have shrunk out of their wardrobe by this point.
No one commented/complimented my weight (except Hubby). No one can even tell.
Quit doing this - it's too hard.
Just take a break from this and come back in January. If I came back in January, I would be up 10 pounds.

So, here's what I am saying to myself since I am UP A POUND this week:

I still weigh less than I did last month.
My clothes are looser. This one pound has not made my clothes tight, obviously.
I can still exercise. Even if I make an occasional bad food choice, I can exercise more, too.
I didn't eat the entire bowl of candy. :o)
A lot of this could be water and I might even lose 2 or 3 pounds this coming week to make up for it.
My goal is to lose 10.5 pounds by the end of the year, which is still possible.
It is important to me lose weight for a wedding that is next June. I still have more than 7 months to lose a lot of weight between now and then.

I know the positive comments I would leave on someone else's blog if she had the same week as I have had. It's just hard to believe it when you're saying it to yourself and not someone else.

But, I am not quitting. I'll be weighing in next week - with a loss - and keep working on it.

Weigh In - 11/7

2007-11-07T05:46:00.000-08:00

Can you believe we are already a week into November? I know they say times goes by more quickly the older you get, but at this point I feel like I'll be 85 next month!!

OK, on to the weigh in.

I've lost 3 pounds this week! Last week I only lost one, so I guess this averages out OK. I'm really trying to make exercise more of a lifestyle and not a "I have to do this." I have dieted on and off (actually, yoyo-ed) for my entire 20's and I think this is the first time I am truly more focused on being healthy. I started this endeavor the least excited I've ever been. Ever. I started out just making a few small changes, seeing a few small results, decided I had to work more to get more and that's how it has taken off.

9.5 pounds to lose by 12/31!!!!

I found a great new food item at my Super T@rget this week. They have seasoned/mixed chicken from Chi-Ch!'s. I've only seen that brand of salsa before and when I read the nutritional info about the chicken, it wasn't bad at all. It's not seasoned cut up pieces of chicken, it is more of a consistency of shredded chicken bbq with lots of sauce. Anyway, it would be great on a burrito or whatever. I purchased some FF tortilla chips and put some lf shredded cheese on top and nuked it until the cheese was melted. Delicious chicken nachos for me on Sunday! I think it would also be good on a Mexican salad or something. Anyway, that's my food find for this week. If you decide to look for it, it's in a yellow bowl with red writing.

Hope you had a great week!

I'm a winner!

2007-11-05T06:30:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth at MP Forever selected my name for her Fall Bloggity Giveaway! I am so excited!

She will be sending me a giftcard for Bl0ckbuster and a gift certificate for a dozen free donuts from Kr!spy Kreme. Hubby is a hufe KK fan and, frankly, I entered this contest just for him - I think he's even more excited than I am! :o)

Thanks so much, Elizabeth!

Celebration Day!!

2007-10-30T06:39:00.000-07:00

It's official!! I have lost 20 pounds since joining TFTS!

I have 12.5 more pounds to lose by the end of the year. Which is, basically, 2 months. During that time, we will celebrate Christmas and Thanksgiving. It is my goal to truly step up my exercise during this time (which may be difficult due to my recent injury, but I'm going to try). Even if my calorie intake goes up during a week or two, at least my calories burned will be up, too, right?

Seriously, can any of you offer an opinion - do you think it's possible to lose 12.5 pounds by the end of the year? I don't want to be unrealistic, but I do have a goal in mind.

Anyway, that's really all I have to offer this week. I've lost one pound, but it was a very important pound (that didn't sound that cheesey in my head - sorry!).

Best wishes to everyone out there!

Have a nice TRIP! See you next FALL!

2007-10-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

OK. I'm not always known for being graceful. I'm not entirely a klutz, but... recovering from a stumble has not always been my strongest asset.

Hubs and I decide to go for a hike today. I'm so pumped because I am one pound away from officially losing 20 pounds. And, I would like to hit the goal this week. So, off to the state park we go to do some hiking. (for the 3rd time this week)

Water bottle? Check
Leash for dog? Check
Parking pass? Check
Appropriate shoes? Check
Comfortable, yet cute, clothing that coordinates with my shoes? Check
Stretching before hike? Check

Ok, we're walking, we're walking... just going down the beginning our hiking trail. Hubs stops and lets Lou (the dog) use the bathroom. You know, we've walked like 50 paces, at a slight down hill. Since hubby is stopped with the dog, I take this opportunity to step it up a bit and jog a few feet.

Or so I planned.

I looked over my shoulder to see if Hubby was catching up with me and before I get turned around, I trip on a root or rock. Since I am running. Downhill. And, not looking where I'm going, I am not exactly able to recover in the manner in which I am accustomed. I guess this is the best way to put it:

I bit the dust.

Not just a trip and fall. Oh no, that would be too easy.

I literally fall head over heels down the hill.

Take a moment to take that in.

Glorious fall Sunday in the park, lots of people out with their dogs, and I am falling down the trail before I am 50 feet out of the parking lot.

The best we can figure, I hit knee first and continued to go down, flipping, then hitting my shoulder as my feet go over my head. I end in a sitting position - and I am hurting. Seriously hurting. Since Lou is, shall we say, directly in the middle of conducting her business, Hubby is not able to immediately come to my aid. So, I sit in the middle of the hiking trail and I am crying due to the pain. There is a group of 3 (?) men at the bottom of the hill and one of them begins to approach me, offering aid. I lie to him and sniffle that I'm fine. Oh, but the pain? It is so real.

Have I mentioned I'm crying - somewhat loudly - in a public place, having fallen, and have leaves and dirt all over my back? And in my hair? I am the picture of grace under pressure.

So, the hike that was to be, never even got started before it ended.

Hubs helped me dust off myself (he is so darn precious to me - I do not deserve him!) and we made it to a bench where I sat and tried to get my act together. Needless to say, it took a few minutes.

I lifted up my pant leg and there is a lot of blood on my knee. Hubby had a napkin in his pants pocket (I don't know why) and I use it to clean it up. I have scratches all down my arm and shoulder. I try to say I want to keep going, but the skin is so raw around my knee, I can't stand to have my pants touch it.

So, we turn around and walk 50 feet back to the car.

I come home and focus on getting the stains out of my clothing (I couldn't make this up) because I am wearing new yoga pants. I even splurged on the matching jacket because they are pink and black and my new shoes are pink and gray. (It's really all looking good while you're working out, am I right??) After pre-treating my stains, I have no choice but to take another shower after I hydrogen per0xide basically the entire right side of my body. Good times.

I am surviving. Hubby and I can now laugh about it. I'm working on moving my knee a lot so it doesn't get stiff because I still need to lose a pound this week.

Oh, and this new purse I want? I think I've earned it.

How was your weekend?

Weigh In 10/24

2007-10-24T06:07:00.000-07:00

Quick post! I've had jury duty this week (fun, fun!!) and I'm back at work today, so I've got a lot to work on.

Good news - I'm down 2 pounds this week! I really need to make exercising more of a priority - I'm starting to slack a bit. I know I still lost weight, but I know I've relaxed my habits some and I don't want to start making bad choices.

Thanks so much to all of you who read my post last week and have left me encouraging words - they really meant a lot.

I know I've gotten to where I only post once a week, but I'm hoping that will change very soon. I'm just really throwing myself into my lifestyle changes and it is taking up some of my free time. You know that, and watching Dancing with the $tars and The 0ffice. I guess I just re-prioritize, huh??

Have a great week!

I'm the Loser of the Week! (And, that's a good thing!)

2007-10-18T13:11:00.001-07:00

Tales from the Scales (listed in my side bar) has selected me as the "Loser of the Week." (You should have heard Hubby's reaction when I told him - he wasn't sure if it was good news or not!) :o)

Each week they highlight a person who is losing weight and this week's selection is me. I am so excited, shocked, and thrilled to be selected. My posting for them is below.

First of all, I am excited (and shocked) to be highlighted this week! Thank you for selecting me!

I have posted about the reason for my weight loss journey here. Having been a yo-yo dieter for all of my twenties, I truly feel like I have made some major strides in my journey in my latest endeavor. It's not easy! Like all of you, I have thought about every bite that has gone into my mouth. I have spent more time thinking about food than any other subject! My official start date was September 9th and since then I have lost 17.5 pounds. I know that's a little quick, but in all honesty my starting weight was what I weighed in the evening and ever since, I've been weighing in the morning. (I just want to be fully honest here!)

What have I been doing that works for me?

Consistently eating breakfast (my personal faves: scrambled egg sandwich on toasted wheat, Slimfast Meal Bar (Bob Green of Oprah fame recommended these and the chocolate chip is great), and my latest find is Jimmy Dean's Delights. They are lean meat, egg whites only breakfast sandwiches with cheese that heat up in 90 seconds.)
I have not forced myself to have a mid-morning snack because my breakfasts have been filling. I do, however, keep fruit on my desk so that I can grab it if I need it.
Reasonable lunch - typically, leftovers from the night before or a turkey & swiss cheese sandwich on wheat. I try to have a cup of veggie soup and a 100 cal pack of chips with it so it is filling and nutritious.
Mid-afternoon snack keeps me from arriving home ravenous and grabbing whatever's convenient.
Lean meat with tons of veggies for supper. I don't like a lot of veggies, but I am experimenting to see if I can find more that I like. Green beans are a big fave (and quick and easy!) and I may have a salad or whole grain rice with it. I try to limit myself to seconds to only the veggies. I've even served green beans with soft tacos just to make sure I get filled and have veggies in me.
I can not keep ice cream in the house. Just can't do it! They now have 100 cal packs of ice cream with fudge ripples in it. Just can't do it. Can't stop at one. Or two. So, I leave them at the grocery store.
Plan, plan, plan my meals. Then, I don't get stuck having to fix only what's available. I've decided 2 or 3 days ago what I'm having tonight so that I would remember to leave out the chicken to thaw.
I don't let myself get starving. That's when I'm more likely to make a bad decision!
Drinking lots and lots of water everyday.
Exercising! I try to find something I enjoy doing, but when the weather's bad or I just don't feel like it, I make myself do it - it's part of the process!
I have a "treat" EVERY SINGLE DAY! I do not do well with being deprived. I find what I like and try to limit my quantities. I mean, truly limit the quantity. I may have a 100 cal pack of a cookie I like (fudge stripes!) or 2 bite size bars (not even a mini bar, a bite size bar!) of 3 musketeers just to enjoy the chocolate taste. I've even bought a few packs of Halloween candy because the portions are small. I keep them in my closet so that I don't just pick them up without thinking about it.

If you visit my blog, you'll see a ticker that shows I have 15.5 more pounds to lose. That's completely accurate and completely misleading. That's my goal for Tales from the Scales, not my life goal. It is my goal to be under 200 pounds at the point this weight loss challenge ends. That's right, I weigh 215.5. I am not strong enough to post my complete weight loss efforts on the ticker, because I know I would want to give up. Knowing that I have a reachable goal helps me to stay focused on my current goal - losing 15.5 more pounds by the end of the year. My true goal is to weigh 160-165 pounds. At my height, I would be around a size 10 at that weight.

This is how I'm doing it. It is my desire to be able to continue with my success. I know how to lose weight - most overweight people could write a book on what to do to lose weight. The hard part is sticking to it! I'm enjoying my weekly weigh ins at TSFTS. The accountability is there. I enjoy reading how all of you are doing. You all encourage me so much! Thanks for letting me share my view. I hope to be asked to post again (maybe I'll even post a before and after picture) when I am closer to my true goal. I want to be a success story!

Weigh In - 10/17

2007-10-17T05:41:00.001-07:00

I nearly did a double take on the scales this morning. Truthfully, I went back and weighed myself a total of 3 times!

I am down 3 pounds!!

I lost weight while on vacation!!

Let me tell you about my week.

Hubby and I left Thursday afternoon to go to Tennessee. We went directly to Chattanooga and had dinner at a Mystery Dinner Theatre. That had an Italian dinner buffet. I basically filled up most of my plate with salad and a touch of dressing, then added some pasta (2 small servings). I went back for 2nds on salad only. Dessert was brought to the table, I had one bite and gave the rest to hubby.

Friday morning, we just picked up McD's for breakfast where I had 2 egg mcmuff!ns, no meat. Lunch was a Sl!mfast Bar and dinner was Chick-fil-@ (chicken wrap and soup). We spent the day walking around Rock City, Ruby Falls, and other highlights in town. Saturday, we ate breakfast at Cr@acker Barrel. (They offer turkey sausage as a meat choice.) We then rafted down the Ocoee (lots of paddling!) and hiked some just as we crossed back into Georgia. Dinner was Wendy's - baked potato with small chili on top.

I know we didn't eat at "nice" places on our trip (except Thurs), but that's not because I was watching what I ate, it's because it was convenient. We didn't have to wait for a table and we could continue our sight seeing. My goal was to lose one pound this week. I am so thankful to have done more. I guess I got in quite a bit of cardiovascular exercise on this trip, which is obviously helpful.

Another thing I am using to my advantage right now - Halloween candy! I know that sounds surprising, but these little boxes are automatic portion control! I currently have Nerds, Junior Mint$, and Sugar B@bies at home. Just enough to curb a sweet tooth. I do not keep them in the kitchen - it's too easy! I keep them in my bedroom closet. I know it sounds silly, but that way if I am on the couch watching tv, I'd have to go to the closet to get them. Plus, I don't think of them near as often. I know some people can't deal with the temptation, for me it helps. Whatever works, right?

These little treats also came on my vacation, too. I can skip dessert at a restaurant if I know as soon as I get in the car, I can have a bit of something.

Another thing I found this week are J!mmy Dean Delights. (or something like that) They are in the frozen section of the grocery store. They are a breakfast muffin with a egg (white), slice of cheese and your choice of 3 breakfast meats. I couldn't find info from their site about this product, but the nutritional info is 260 calories 7 g fat 2 g fiber 30 g carbs 18 g protein for the turkey sausage. The canadian bacon and black forest ham are lower in fat by 1 gram. Super good and super fast!

That's my week - I hope you had a great one, too!

Weigh In - 10/10

2007-10-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

Woo-hoo! I'm down 2 pounds!

This week has been especially challenging. Hubby's entire family came to our house for dinner Saturday and it was Homecoming at our church on Sunday. Homecoming. At a church in the South. There was ham, fried chicken, and an assortment of vegetables in casserole form. Not to mention 2 tables covered in desserts.

So, I had to come up with a plan: I brought green beans, broccoli casserole, corn casserole, and whole grain rice. I knew I could eat my side dishes and stay on plan. Then, I had one or two tiny pieces of turkey. For dessert, I had 2 bites of what was on hubby's plate. I can't always change my circumstances, so I just have to come up with a plan for where I am.

This weekend will be my most challenging yet. Frankly, I can get a little anxious just thinking about it!

Hubby and I are going out of town for our anniversary. (yeah!) We're having dinner at a Murder Mystery Dinner house one night - food: buffet of Italian food! What to do?? The rest of the time we'll be hiking and walking around some national parks, but, I do worry about meals and snacks. I'm going to bring some fruit and 100 cal packs for snacks, but when we're eating at local places, I won't really know if there's any healthy options until we're inside looking at the menu.

So, a week in advance, I am worrying about next week's weigh in. Well, that and I'll be retaining water at that time, also. Good times!!

Any traveling tips you'd like to share?

I hope you had a good week!

Food Journal - 10/4

2007-10-05T08:08:00.000-07:00

bfast-scrambled egg sandwich on toasted wheat
lunch-turkey and swiss sandwich and baked chips
snack-black bean chips with hummus

had a hair appointment last night and it took forever! (nearly 2 hours!) Got home too late to eat. I know I didn't eat a lot today, but only because it was crazy and hectic.

Food Journal - 10/3

2007-10-04T05:48:00.001-07:00

bfast-Sl!mfast bar
lunch - turkey & swiss sandwich on wheat, chicken noodle soup
huge rush at home (Dr's appt, then church) no dinner, went to
Steak & Sh@ke with friends and had a strawberry yogurt milkshake

No exercise today - I hiked 1.5 miles Tues, but that was it. We've had plans every single weeknight and it's just hard to make time for it. We're also going hiking Saturday, so I'm getting it in sometimes. Truly, I need to get up earlier in the morning and do a WATP dvd, but that's just hard. I need to focus on exercise this week!!

Works for Wednesday, the Question Edition

2007-10-03T06:09:00.000-07:00

OK, people. I just want to know how CVS cards work. I hear about the great savings and I am oh so interested, but I just don't get it.

I just don't get how the reward program works, especially in regards to the money they give back with certain purchases.When you purchase certain things, you get "bucks" or something. Do they actually mail you a check? Do you get a credit in that amount, which you can use the next time you shop and they scan your card? Are you required to keep up with receipts from prior purchases?

Any help regarding the CVS rewards program would be much appreciated!
Thanks so much!

Want to help answer other people's questions? Wondering if others have questions similar to yours? Visit Shannon at Rocks in my Dryer.

Weigh In - 10/3

2007-10-03T05:34:00.000-07:00

I'm down 1.5 pounds this week - and I'm thrilled!! My total weight loss is 11.5 pounds since beginning mid September. (Weight falls off quickly at first, then stabilizes.)

I have learned several things this week:

Posting my food journal daily is important to my success. I didn't do that this week and I felt kind of "out of sorts." I try to be "super" good 98% of the time so that 2% of the time I can treat myself and it not affect my weight loss. Without a food journal to look over, I can't remember how good or how many treats I've had.
The experts are right! Exercise really does curb my appetite. I was starving on my way home last night, but I knew that if I wanted to exercise outside, I would have to do it first thing because it is now getting dark earlier (darn it!). I went out and hiked about 1.5 miles and on the way home, I wasn't even remotely hungry.
I am able to go through the motions, even when I don't feel like it. This is a big one for me. We had a hectic weekend and I wasn't sure how I did (see #1 above). I weighed Mon. and had lost .5 pounds. Out of curiosity, I weighed Tues. morning also. I was up .5 pounds. I know I didn't gain a pound in a day, but it kinda bummed me out. (I try to only weigh once a week, but I this time I made an exception.) I was thinking of all the bad things I was going to eat since this "just isn't working." But, I didn't. I didn't feel like sticking with it, but I did. Just like I don't always feel like going to work, but I do it anyway. I stuck with it, the scale balanced out, and I ended up with a 1.5 pound loss for the week.
Don't let one reading on the scale affect my whole outlook. See #3.
Exercise is key, but I have to make it something I enjoy doing. However, if the weather is bad, I need to suck it up and just do an activity (workout dvd, for example) just because I have to do it to reach my goal.
Finding a non-food hobby is helpful. I am learning to sew. I have a few hobbies that I enjoy doing that make it literally impossible to eat while I'm doing them - rubber stamping, crocheting, sewing. I definitely can not eat while I'm doing any of these things. This really helps late night cravings. I am distracted, plus I am doing something productive.
I am really encouraged when I read other people's blogs about their weight loss. If I'm feeling unmotivated, I can go to read them or just learn that I'm not alone when I feel like I'm struggling.

That's my take on the week. Thanks for reading - I hope you have a great week!

The Office - Season Premiere

2007-09-28T08:16:00.000-07:00

I am a tv fan. I have a few shows that I am just downright addicted to, "The Office" being one of them.

I was late to get "The Office" bandwagon, but now, I can't stand to miss it. I wasn't sure what to expect from last night's episode. I was afraid they would really milk the Pam and Jim thing. Nope. They played it just right.

My highlights are below:

Dwight firing an actual gun for the beginning of the race
Andy and his chaffing... issues...
Check made out to "Science"
Jan threatening Pam
The shredded frozen french fries
"I'm not superstitious. Just a little stitious"
Angela's love for her cat(s)
“I don’t think you understand how jeopardy works.” “Oh. What is, ‘we’re fine?’ ”
PB&J

And, the shirt that Dwight wore in the race is now available online. You can click here.

Thankful Thursday

2007-09-27T08:16:00.000-07:00

This has been a busy week! It's nice to slow down and reflect about what's been going on.

I'm thankful for a church that still believes in attempting to revive the hearts of its congregants. Even if that means going non stop for several days! :o)
I'm thankful that I lost 10 pounds!
I'm thankful that fall is starting to appear.
I'm thankful we have friends and family that want to come over and visit. (tonight)
I'm thankful I have a job - in the past 2 weeks, we've had a friend and a family member lost theirs!
I'm thankful that the new fall line up is beginning. (OK, I know that's shallow, but I do have a few shows I love!! Try not to judge me!)
I'm thankful for Christian friends who are dependable.
I'm thankful for another week of good health for me and those I love.
I'm thankful for a husband that wants to take me on a trip for our anniversary.

Head over to Sting My Heart to see what others are thankful for! It's a real blessing!

Blogging

2007-09-27T07:44:00.001-07:00

I can't help but to notice that my blog has taken on all appearances of a "Weight L0ss Blog." That's not really my goal. Because I'm not all about "weight loss." Just like any of you, I am more than one thing!

This is also not a Wife Blog.

Or a Daughter Blog.

Or a Sewing Bl0g.

Or a Crocheting Bl0g.

Or a Stamping Bl0g.

Or a Georgia Tech Bl0g.

These are all interests of mine, but I seem to have focused my energies on weight loss. And, that's understandable when I'm making lifestyle changes and watching every bite that goes into my mouth. But, that's not all of who I am.

I'll do better!

Weigh In Day/Food Journal 9/25 {updated}

2007-09-26T06:03:00.001-07:00

Today's Wednesday, my official weigh in and I am pleased. This week, I've lost 1.5 pounds, making my total weight loss an even ten pounds! Thank you, Lord!

Confession: I had no supper last night! I know it isn't good to skip meals, but our church is in Revival this week and I got busy and didn't have time to eat before church (I get home at 6:00 and left at 7:00) and by the time we got home (9:45), I just felt it was too late to eat. So, truth be told, I don't know if the magic number 10 is accurate, but that's what it was this morning, so I'm going to count it!

I'm treating myself to Chick-fil-@ today to celebrate and to kind of "mix it up" as to what goes into my body. They say one of the worst things we can do is to get into a rut of what we eat. It we change it around, it keeps from messing up our metabolism. (I am no expert, obviously, but that's what I've heard/read.) {Update: I went to the mall and had a 3 cheese veggie wrap instead - lots of cheese, not good, but still a treat since I didn't prepare it. In reviewing my food journals, I definitely needed some veggies and this is a sandwich I actually like, so kind of in-between treat and healthy.}

I am choosing to reward myself for every 5 pounds lost. The number on the scale ended with a 2, so I technically didn't reward myself this time until I lost 7. (I'm a numbers person, I like for the number to end in 5 or 0.)

(Have you noticed how many times I'm using (parenthesis) in the post?) (Gee Whiz!)

Anyway, so I am now "entitled" to a pedicure. Two more pounds and I am getting a new Georg!a Tech purse. I have several, but a new one has come out and I, of course, want it very badly! But, I am waiting until I earn it.

Food Journal:
bfast-Sl!mfast Bar
lunch-grilled chicken, whole grain rice
snack-fiber bar
snack- 1 cup (1/2 cup whole grain, 1/2 cup honey nut cheeri0s) cereal w/skim milk
dinner - none, but not a habit

lots of water, but less than usual - somewhere around 50 oz - and did a WATP dvd, 1 mile.

Food Journal 9/24

2007-09-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

bfast-Sl!mfast Bar
lunch - grilled chicken jumbalaya w/smoked sausage, mushrooms, canteloupe
snack-banana
snack-Fiber bar
dinner-turkey hot dog, with cheese and chili

Lots of water - no exercise

Food Journal 9/23

2007-09-24T10:27:00.000-07:00

Bfast- Sl!mfast Bar
Lunch - leftover grilled chicken breast and whole grain rice
snack(s) - munchies!! Had maybe five (!) small boxes of Jr. M!nts, black beans chips w/ hummus and a few hard candies (butterscotch, peppermints)
No dinner - wasn't hungry

Lots of water, hiked at local park about 1 hr.

I'm a Winner!!

2007-09-22T19:35:00.000-07:00

I entered in a contest at Big Mama's (she's on my blogroll - I love reading her site!)

I won a CD and as soon as I listen, I will tell you all about.

I'm so excited - I've never won a contest before!!

Food Journal 9/22

2007-09-22T19:33:00.000-07:00

bfast - english muffin, half w/ peanut butter, half w/ low sugar fruit spread, cantaloupe
lunch - club sandwich
snack - cantaloupe
dinner - grilled chicken, rice, new potatoes
snack - Jr. M!nts, 100 cal pack of pudding

Food Journal 9/21

2007-09-22T19:29:00.000-07:00

Bfast - scrambled egg sandwich on toasted wheat
lunch - 2 crab cakes and whole grain rice, 1 100 cal chocolate pudding cup
snack- banana w/ peanut butter
dinner - salad, boiled shrimp, and crab legs
snack - 1 small box Jr. M!nts

lots of water, no exercise

Crab Cakes

2007-09-21T06:58:00.000-07:00

I used this recipe to make crab cakes for dinner last night. Of course, I didn't have every ingredient listed, so I substituted Whole Wheat R!tz crackers and used my own seasoning to taste. I also only had 2 cans of crab meat, but I used her recipe's amounts of ff yogurt and 1 egg white. I was afraid it was too "wet" when I put them on to bake, but they were just right!

(Confession #2: I just threw all ingredients in a bowl and mixed it together!)

New recipe success and husband approved!

Using 2 cans of crab meat gave me 5 crab cakes. I had 2, hubby had one (he was also eating leftovers from eating out for dinner), so I have 2 to bring to lunch today with whole grain rice. Perfect! Next time, I'll try making a bigger batch, then I can freeze some, hopefully!

For weight loss inspiration, check out Roni's blog (in my blogroll to the left - Roni's Weight Watchen). She is a real success story and was even featured on m$n!

Food Journal - 9/20

2007-09-21T06:46:00.000-07:00

bfast - scrambled egg sandwich on toasted wheat
lunch - grilled chicken, mushroom and swiss sandwich on wheat bun, few spoonfuls of veggie soup (I was actually content already!)
snack - 1 bite of 3 musketeers
snack - handful of black bean chips w/ hummus
dinner - crab cakes and whole grain rice
snack - one small package (from Hall0ween candy aisle) of Juni0r Mints

Plenty of water - walked at local park.

This weekend will be a real test. We're having supper with friends at a local state park that is known for its excellent buffet. (danger!) Then, we're spending the night with them, which means I will be a good house guest and not have any special menu requests for breakfast. (Usually biscuits!) My plan is to do the best I can and take some Sl!mfast breakfast bars for extra nourishment to keep me satisfied. And, lots of water! I should probably try to take an apple or banana, too. I've put some Juni0r Mints and hard candies in purse for a sweet tooth cure. The guys are getting up early Saturday and going fishing and we're going antique shopping.

Truly, my mind is in the game, I feel great and confident, but I can't request someone else to prepare a healthy breakfast because that's what I need right now. My plan is to make the best choices I can and know that when I come home, it's right back to what I've been doing.

I'll let you know Monday!

Food Journal - 9/19

2007-09-20T05:54:00.000-07:00

bfast - scrambled egg sandwich on wheat
lunch - Bl!mpie sandwich - grilled chicken, bacon, cheese, bell peppers, cucumbers, lettuce, vinegar, pepper, spices
dinner - banana with peanut butter
snack - 2 3 musketeers bites

lots of water - walked at local park

For whatever reason, this time, I'm not struggling with exercising. I'm actually enjoying it and I'm making up my mind to "just do it." My favorite thing to do is hike. Of course, I can only do that on weekends, but when I do it, I am gone for about 2 hours and I'm enjoying every step. Even when I'm on the rough part and my heart is about to beat out of my chest. It's such a feeling of accomplishment to actually complete the trail.

As far as walking goes, it's not a whole lot of fun necessarily, but I am doing it and I'm consistent. I walk first thing when I come home. I immediately change clothes and go right back out the door.

I've always heard this, but it is interesting to experience. I'm really not as hungry when I exercise. I come home from work hungry, so I eat something for energy - typically a banana with peanut butter. I don't even want dinner when I come back from exercising - what a change for me!

My Sesame Street Personality

2007-09-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

My Score: Big Bird

You scored 72% Organization, 55% abstract, and 72% extroverted!

This test measured 3 variables.

First, this test measured how organized you are. Some muppets like Cookie Monster make big messes, while others like Bert are quite anal about things being clean.

Second, this test measured if you prefer a concrete or an abstract viewpoint. For the purposes of this test, concrete people are considered to gravitate more to mathematical and logical approaches, whereas abstract people are more the dreamers and artistic type.

Third, this test measured if you are more of an introvert or an extrovert. By definition, an introvert concentrates more on herself and an extrovert focuses more on others. In this test an introvert was somebody that either tends to spend more time alone or thinks more about herself.

You are very organized, both concrete and abstract, and more extroverted.

Here is why are you Big Bird.

You are both very organized. You almost always know where your belongings are and you prefer things neat. You may even enjoy cleaning and find it therapeutic. Big Bird is never sloppy and always under control... pretty good for a 6 year old bird living without a family.You both are sometimes concrete and sometimes abstract thinkers. Big Bird can be quite dreamy at times and has no problem using his imagination. At the same time he is also practical and can be methodical in his search for answers to questions. You have a good balance in your life. You know when to be logical at times, but you also aren't afraid to explore your dreams and desires... within limits of course.You are both extroverts. Big Bird gets along with everyone. He makes friends easily and always has a positive attitude. You definitely enjoy the company of others, and you don't have problems meeting new people... in fact you probably look forward to it. You are willing to take charge when necessary or work as part of a team.

Want to take the quiz? Click here.

WFMW - Friends in the Hospital - sending cards

2007-09-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

Shannon is hosting Works for me Wednesday this week and here's my idea:

If I know a friend of mine is in the hospital, obviously I want to send a card. But, I never know when she'll be released and I don't like to send the card to the home because then that's just one more thing her husband will need to try to remember to take back to the hospital.

My solution?

I mail the card to the hospital, but for the return address, I use the recipient's home address. That way, if she gets it in the hospital, great, and if not, the post office won't send it back to me, she will still get it back at home.

That Works for Me! For other ideas, visit Rocks in my Dryer.

Food Journal 9/18

2007-09-19T08:04:00.001-07:00

Breakfast - Sl!mfast Bar
Lunch - grilled chicken breast, mushrooms, corn
Dinner - 1/2 chicken breast on whole wheat bun with 1/2 slice Swiss cheese and mushrooms, small portion of black bean chips and red pepper hummus
1 bite size 3 musketeer

drank lots of water, walked just over a mile at local park

Food Journal - 9/17

2007-09-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

Breakfast - Sl!mfast bar
Lunch - thought I would try a large bowl of veggie soup. It was good, but it just didn't satisfy me very well.
Snack - 2nd Sl!mfast bar - I try not to do 2 a day, but I was starving!! (ate around 3:00)
Snack - banana w/peanut butter

My second snack really satisfied me and hubby didn't get home until after 8:00. Together, we grilled chicken and mushrooms and I fixed corn as a side. I wasn't hungry, so I decided not to eat. Again, not something I usually do, but I'd say my snack could count as a meal, right?

Got lots of water in!

As of today, I have only drunk water (or skim milk) for a complete week!

I hiked for 30-45 minutes at a local park.

My Story

2007-09-18T06:50:00.000-07:00

Hello, my name is Lisa Kay, and I've been fat since I was 18.

That statement is 85% accurate.

My entire life, I thought I was fat. So, when I would gain a few pounds here and there or enjoy Christmas desserts too much or make some bad food decision, I would think, "Well, I'm fat. This is what happens." Keep in mind, I am 5'7"ish and I thought I was obese because I weighed 145 pounds my sophomore year in high school. It didn't help that my best friend was 5'1" and weighed 95 pounds. I really didn't have anyone to compare myself to. I was a few inches taller than my friends, I actually had a reason to wear a br@ (if you you know what I mean), so, of course I weighed more. I just didn't see it that way. All I knew was that I had to buy bigger sizes than my friends. And, the truth is, it is hard to buy an 8, when your friends are 0 and 2. My biggest problem was myself, low esteem, and poor body image. When I looked in the mirror, I saw a fat person staring back at me.

My true struggle with weight began when hubby and I started dating. We went out. A lot. To a lot of restaurants. And we were so happy and in love, we would order an appetizer, salad, entree, and dessert. By the time I graduated, I couldn't wear the jeans or dresses I had worn the previous fall.

Then, I went away to college.

Ever heard of the "freshman fifteen?"

My experience was more like the freshman 25.

I had a hard time adjusting to college and dorm life. I thought I was being adventurous by attending a college where I didn't know anyone. It was tucked in the north Georgia mountains. The people were friendly. I loved it. However, I missed home and my boyfriend immensely. I ate to feel better.

And, since I was "fat," this is just what happens, right?

Of course, by January, I was adapted to college life and I was a big girl. I was quite embarrassed by my weight, but what I could do? That summer, my mom (who was around 5'8-9" and worked reasonably so to keep her weight in the healthy range) and I discussed it and she offered to pay for my food if I would go to Jenny Cr@ig.

I weighed in at 182 pounds.

I was going to summer school in college to graduate early, so drove home and got my food on Saturdays, never ate in the cafeteria at school, and by summer's end, I had lost nearly 30 pounds eating their food. I had to have been dedicated because the food didn't taste that great!

I kept most of it off my sophomore year, maybe gaining 10 pounds, but I stabilized, even if I was a bit heavy. I graduated with my Associates Degree, moved back home, and went to working on my Bachelor's Degree.

In November of my senior year of college, my mom got sick. She passed away in January while I was student teaching. I was reeling from so much grief, and shock. For the first time in my life, I was too upset to eat. That has never happened before or since. I was wearing size 10 clothes that summer and it was nice, but I certainly hadn't worked for it.

Hubby and I got married in October and I really put on weight fast. I think I hadn't dealt with the grief appropriately because I focused my joy on the upcoming wedding. Once I didn't have that to look forward to, I crashed into a deep depression.

I ended up weighing 242 pounds. My heavest ever in my life - before or since.

(Don't worry, folks, this is where the story gets shorter.)

Eating healthy foods, I lost 45 pounds and that's where I stopped.

I've gained and lost 25 pounds about 5 or 6 times, keeping me in the over 200's for a few years now.

It seems like every time I get close to 195, I freeze up and stop doing the right things. Sometimes it's because of the timing (holidays). Sometimes, it's because of emotions (lost a precious member of my family last year). Sometimes, it's because food just tastes good and I want it!

However, my 20's are nearly over and it's time to take care of myself. My feet and back hurt too much for someone of my age.

I want to be able to wear cuter clothes.

I want to not be the fat one in the group.

I want to have my confidence, umm, shall we say, with my husband. (How's that for putting it appropriately?)

I want to enjoy life and take care of the body the Lord has provided.

My journey is beginning.

Amazing Video

2007-09-17T12:18:00.000-07:00

This is one of the most powerful things I've seen - take a look at this clip on God Tube.

Let me know what you think or if you link to it.

Weekend

2007-09-17T11:51:00.001-07:00

As I mentioned, our weekend was quite hectic with visitation at the funeral home. The funeral was Sunday, followed by a feast at a great aunt's home. Keep in mind, that this is the South. We comfort with food. A spread was put before us like I haven't seen since last Thanksgiving. Ham, numerous vegetables (several in the form of casseroles), homemade biscuits, and 2 large desserts: coconut cake and death by chocolate cake.

Frankly, the second isn't a cake I would serve after a funeral, but that's just me.

You know, or call it triple chocolate cake or something.

I made the best decision I could at the time - small portions of non casseroled vegetables, but I could still taste the butter and bacon grease permeating the vegetables. So, I went with small portions, no seconds, and no desserts. That's the best I could do!

Fall is definitely coming to Georgia. Saturday, I woke up to an outside of temperature of less than 80 degrees and no humidity. Believe me, this is something I haven't enjoyed in a while! I loaded up the dog and off we went to a park to do some hiking. It was great! Until I got lost. In the woods. By myself. And, I had to get home to go to the funeral home. So, I do what any woman would do in the year 2007. I called my husband! I asked him to go inside to download a map of the park (which I hadn't done) and tell me how to get out of here! Get this - our internet was out at home! Of all times! Anyway, I wasn't actually lost, but I got on a trail that was a loop and I knew I could go back, but I wasn't sure if I was close to the end or not. I asked one person I met on the trail and she said I was about 30 minutes from the parking lot. Yeah, unless you're in stellar shape, there is no way I was only 30 minutes away and that's why I started to get panicked. But, it all worked out. I got a great 3 miles hike in and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Grandma

2007-09-17T07:01:00.000-07:00

Hubby's grandmother passed away Friday. We will miss her so much! A different grandson preached the funeral and he did a superb job. It seems that most funerals are either just about the person or just about the Bible. But, he did a great job of talking about her and then using the Bible to comfort. Truly, an outstanding job.

It's so interesting to learn about the "old days." When she was a child, on Saturdays, her mom would give her a dime. She would use that dime to take a trolley ride, go to town, watch a movie with candy, and take the trolley home. On a dime! She was also an insurance salesperson for a while. She was the first female in sales in the area. This was in the day when insurance premiums were collected, not mailed in. She had to carry a pistol because her route took her through a rough area and she was carrying so much cash! It's hard to imagine that she had even touched a pistol!

We will really miss Grandma. But, if Heaven has a beach, I know exactly where she and Grandpa are right now.

Menu Planning Monday 9-17

2007-09-17T06:13:00.000-07:00

I'm an Organizing Junkie is hosting Menu Planning Monday today.

My plan for the week:

Mon: Grilled Chicken, with broccoli casserole and corn
Tues: Chicken bacon swiss sandwiches on whole wheat buns and green beans
Wed: hamburgers with salad and baked chips
Thur: chicken soft tacos
Fri: eating out
Sat: dinner at a friend's house
Sun: tilapia, broccoli cheese rice (from the frozen section at Kr0ger), and green beans

What are you having this week?

Food Journal - 9/13

2007-09-14T06:07:00.001-07:00

Today was just an odd kind of day...

bfast - Sl!mfast bar
lunch - prepare yourself for this (just my luck!) My boss offers to take all of us out to eat at a nice restaurant - no occasion, just because. So, we go. I am on my best behavior and order a salmon Caesar salad, with the dressing on the side. It comes out covered in the dressing and I'm too shy to send it back in front of my colleagues. So, I ate it (it was SO good!), but didn't clean my plate.
Snack - 1/2 cup cheerios, 1/2 cup whole wheat bran flakes with skim milk
Dinner - Healthy Ch0ice Chicken noodle soup

So, I was kind of aggravated about my lunch choice - I hate to waste fat & calories on something I don't even want.

Then, I got home to do a walking dvd and the case was empty. And, it was raining outside. I think I loaned the DVD to a friend - a while back. So, extra fat in my intake, plus no exercise. So, I found a - prepare yourself - Richard Simm0ns tape. Fortunately we have a DVD and VCR in one, so I did that for about 20 minutes. AND, it wasn't too bad! I always thought he was pretty cheesy, but he had a good workout put together. I may even do it again. If no one is home. :o)

Food Journal - 9/12

2007-09-13T06:02:00.000-07:00

Bfast - Sl!mfast Bar
Lunch - shrimp cocktail and salad
Snack - 2 or 3 bite size 3 musketeers (I seem to get a sweet tooth after lunch!)
Dinner - turkey hotdog on whole wheat bun and turkey chili
Snack - 10 black bean chips with red pepper hummus (yummy!)

Drank lots of water

Still NO exercise this week!!

My plan tonight is to do a WATP DVD since I'm not getting out like I should.

Hubby and I are going to look for a 5k to run/walk in for the fall. It's one thing to "try to walk/run for exercise." It's something totally different when you're training for an event. I'm not much of a runner, but I would love to try!

WFMW - Cream Cheese Poundcake

2007-09-12T07:26:00.001-07:00

Shannon is hosting Works for Me Wednesday and I thought I'd pass along my latest find. This is a super easy recipe and always a crowd pleaser.

Charlotte's Cream Cheese Pound Cake

1½ cups butter

1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese

pinch of salt
3 cups sugar

3 teaspoons vanilla
6 eggs

2 cups cake flour *see below

Combine butter and cream cheese. Add sugar and cream well. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in flour and salt; add vanilla. Bake in greased pan. Start in cold oven and bake at 300 degrees for 2 hours.

This was actually too much cake batter for my bundt pan, so I poured some into a loaf pan and took it to work.

**I have never bought cake flour in my life. Since this recipe called for it (and Charlotte told me it was important), I looked through my cookbooks and found a substitution. You'll need a table spoon of cornstarch, a one cup measuring cup, and a sifter. Get your measuring cup and add one tablespoon of cornstarch. Fill the measuring cup the rest of the way with all purpose flour. Sift it 2 times and it equals one cup of cake flour. So, for this cake, I did that twice.

Easy recipe without having to buy special ingredients - Works for Me!

Meal Planning

2007-09-12T07:21:00.001-07:00

Ouch! I almost hurt myself patting myself on the back! (ha, ha) I have planned out our menus thru October 9th! I am so proud of myself! I'm not trying to sound prideful, but when you reach a goal, it feels good! I have nearly a month of meals planned, including sides, and I am truly thrilled about it.

Food Journal - 9/11

2007-09-12T06:37:00.000-07:00

Breakfast - Sl!mFast meal-on-the-go bar
Lunch - 1/2 turkey kielbasa, lots of green beans, sauteed mushrooms
Snack - Lipt0n cup of "soup" - quotes bc it's basically flavored water - yuck!
Snack - still hungry - Sl!mFast meal on the go bar
Supper - 6 bites of TBone steak, 8 grilled mushrooms
Snack - cup of cereal w/skim milk

Drank lots of water - still no exercise!! It was raining last night.

So far, so good

2007-09-11T08:16:00.000-07:00

After work yesterday, hubby and I went non-stop. We attended a service at a friend's church that started at 7:00, so I came home and did dinner right away. I boiled some kielbasa with new potatoes and served it with green beans. I also sauteed some mushrooms with bell pepper in olive oil (just for me - hubs is not a fan) and it was pretty darn good - and healthy! Plus, I have just enough leftover for lunch today - perfect in my book!!

Afterwards, we had to go to Wa!mart since our dog was nearly out of food, so I picked up a few things while I was there. Got home at 10:00 and still needed to do a load of laundry. I don't see how you moms do it that work full time!! Yesterday nearly wore me out!

Obviously, I didn't get to go for a walk last night, but I plan on it tonight.

The "lifestyle change" (it's not a diet!) went perfectly yesterday. I ate the right things and I feel prepared for today. I wish I hadn't done this to myself. I wish I had maintained. I wish I had lost more before! I wish I could lose the weight I need to and keep it off! But, I'm not giving up. I've spent too much of my 20's overweight and it needs to come off. Now.

Have a great day everyone!

Yesterday's menu:

Breakfast: S!imfast Optima (meal on the go bar)
Snack: banana
Lunch: tilapia, corn, broccoli cheese rice
Snack: banana
Dinner: 1/2 turkey kielbasa link, sauteed mushrooms & bell pepper, one small potato
No snack, but went to bed hungry. (came home and it was too late to eat)
(only drank water all day)

How was your weekend?

2007-09-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

My weekend (in bullet points):

Went to a local craft show on Friday - even took a half day off of work. Saw some great things. If hubby and I had kids, I would have spent everything I had on great things there. However, since we have no kids and I'm learning to sew things for me, I bought nothing, but got inspired.
Saturday, went to the Georgia Tech game. It was awesome! I really like that our coach doesn't run up the score, even in a blowout. In the 2nd quarter, he took out our quarterback and other major starters, and put in the 2nd string. We continued to score. Rinse. Lather. Repeat. It ended up that the fourth string was put in and we still won by 55 points! I think the Coach Gailey did the right thing by taking out our star players, but he can't tell the players on the field not to play the game!
Had dinner at a great restaurant Saturday. Had some cajun pasta and it was excellent!
Sunday, I fixed lunch by using something I had picked up at Publ!x. The meat was a skirt steak (I think), but rolled up (like a jelly roll) with spinach and provolone cheese inside. All I had to do was place it on a pan and put it in the oven. It was very yummy! And, it was husband approved. I fixed some sides and it was super easy!

Today starts a new part of my life - I am going to diet. And, I know it's not a diet, it's a lifestyle change. OK, I am beginning a major lifestyle change. I have been under some personal stress (that I just don't quite feel comfortable sharing yet) for several months now and I have put on 25 pounds in 6 months!! How in the world have I managed to gain 4 pounds a month and not have a baby growing inside of me?? I have just really let myself go and I'm getting back in control, with God's help. And, this time, as I lose the weight, once I'm comfortable in my pants, I'm going to buy a size smaller and wait for them to fit me. Once they do, I am donating my "old" pants. I think that's my problem - I have a lot of "wiggle room" in my closet. I can vary in weight 30 pounds and still have things to wear. Those days are now over! I'll keep you posted!

Random Thoughts of the Long Weekend (Posted a Day Late)

2007-09-05T06:13:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone enjoyed their Labor Day weekend. Mine was wonderful. No major news, just got stuff done and relaxed.

Hubby and I were given tickets to Hootie and the Blowfish's concert on Friday night. Being as I was in high school and college in the 90's, I still think they are cool. It's my blog and I can think that if I want to. The tickets were at an outdoor venue and just as we were turning into the parking lot, the bottom fell out and the rain poured down. So, we went home without even parking. I hate that we missed it, but, as my mom would say, "if that's the worst thing that ever happens, I guess you'll be OK."

Saturday, I did some shopping while Hubby worked on fixing up a truck he is about to sell. I went to J0ann's, and they were having a great sale. Plus, I had two coupons - one for 40% any item and an additional coupon for 10% off my entire order. I bought quite a few things and only spent $25. I was pleased. Afterwards, I went to a huge antique mall and found a few treasures. I decided they should stay at the antique mall for now and maybe I can come back and pick them up later. THEN, Georgia Tech (my beloved Yellow Jackets) beat Notre Dame just as I hope they would. Not that I am a Notre Dame "hater," but just because I want my Jackets to have a great season and start it by beating their first opponent, ON THE ROAD, IN THEIR STADIUM, yes indeed. We had friends over to watch the game with and that was great. We had friends that actually attended the game and they said the Notre Dame fans were very nice. That is so great that home fans can be courteous. We're used to UG@ fans who are typically the most obnoxious fans I've ever been around in my life. I am a UG@ hater, not because of the bulldogs (or as they say, "bulldawgs"), but because of their fans. Sheesh.

Sunday morning, I was waking up for Sunday School and church and flipped on the tv. What to my eyes did appear? The immortal Gone With The Wind. Oh, how I love that movie! Yes, it is too long, but, those of you who are fans, what part would you suggest be cut out? I can't think of one thing that should be taken out, so I just accept it as it is. I sat on the couch, basically in a trance, as the characters danced across my screen. Sunday School starts at 10:00. I got in the shower at 9:15. Did I mention I had not ironed mine & hubby's church clothes yet? So, I set off on the whirwind of getting us ready and beating myself up for not being better organized, mismanaging my time, and sitting on the couch watching the best movie ever made. Oh well, these things happen. I'll worry about that tomorrow.

That night, after church, we had our Sunday School class over. It was BYOB.

That's code in our class for, "I'm providing the Cokes and desserts, but pick up your dinner at the drive thru of your choosing and I'll host the get together, but I'm not cooking." Hence, BYOB - Bring Your Own Bag (of food). We had ate, chatted, laughed, played the Wii and had a great time.

Since the 3 prior days were full of activities, we just chilled out Monday. He worked on cars, I organized. I love a holiday!

Thankful Thursday

2007-08-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

Sting my Heart is hosting Thankful Thursday again this week!

This week's thankfulness has a few that are kind of lighthearted, but it's what I'm feeling...

I'm thankful that I have friends to watch the Georgia Tech game with.
I'm thankful that we have a home that we can invite friends to (to watch the aforementioned game with).
I'm thankful that my arm is sore from playing with our newest toy - our Wii. :o)
I'm thankful that my dad is kid enough to come over and play with us - and that he survived a massive heart attack last year in order to do so!
I'm thankful that I have a job that I don't dread going to every day.
I'm thankful that I have a husband who will put gas in my car for me.
I'm thankful for a husband who doesn't mind helping with the laundry since I work full time.
I'm thankful that this weekend is a long weekend.
I'm thankful for God being God, who doesn't change, "not even a shadow of turning," consistent, despite my inconsistency, amazing God.
I'm thankful that people have read my blog and even commented!
I'm thankful that you're reading this right now.

What are you thankful for?

WFMW-Dividing Toys Among Children

2007-08-29T05:52:00.000-07:00

Children advice from a non-parent may sound strange, but we do have kids over sometimes and I have found out something shocking. Prepare yourselves.

Children think that everything has to be fair!

"She got more than me." "He got a bigger piece." "That one is prettier than mine."

I'm sure you parents have never heard these things at your house, but when hubby and I have kids over, we hear it occasionally. This is how we solve it:

For example, I bought a multi-pack of gum. Various flavors=danger zone. We have 4 kids at the house. I tell them, "I'm going to open the gum and set them out on the table. You have 30 seconds to decide who gets what." They know they have 30 seconds for everyone to be happy (as possible) or I'll pick them back up and we'll pick a number between 1 and 25. Whoever gets closest gets first pick, whoever is 2nd closest gets 2nd pick, etc. This way, they have the opportunity to work it out between them, but if it's not possible, a fair solution is right behind them. And, no one gets to really be unhappy because at the end of it, they are all getting a pack of gum.

I've used this before if I happened across a sale of cute pencils or something along those lines where they are all equal, but look different.

This works for us!

Head over to Shannon at Rocks in my Dryer to see a lot of other helpful tips!

FALLing in love

2007-08-28T11:19:00.001-07:00

Have I mentioned that I sooooo ready for fall? It has been so miserable-muggy-humid hot here in Georgia that I haven't been outside much at all. I miss the outdoors! Labor is this upcoming weekend and I am really looking forward to it.

Not just Labor Day weekend.

But, opening game of my beloved Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets! Go Jackets!

Truly, I love the fall. Spending time outside (especially after being sealed up all summer), visiting with friends, catching up with hubby's college buddies at games, playing hostess to the ones that spend the weekend with us, homecoming at our church, harvest festivals, leaves changing colors, mountain drives, corn mazes, and my favorite day of the year - mine & hubby's anniversary.

Fall can not get here quick enough for me!

Free Purse!

2007-08-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

Click over here to visit the great purse that is being given away at Musings of a Housewife! It is yummy!

Great Weekend

2007-08-27T07:36:00.001-07:00

I had a fabulous weekend and I just want to blog all about it! :o)

One of my best friends came over and we sewed! I think I finally have figured out how to make a lined purse or tote bag, with pocket on the inside and out. I feel like a rocket scientist!! (ha) You know how it is when you have one of those "aha!" moments, I had one this weekend where I finally figured out how to put it all together it come out correctly. Thanks, K, for patiently answering my questions!

Church was good yesterday. Then in the afternoon, we "babysat" 4 kids ages 7-13 for a friend of mine to give her the afternoon off. We played hide and go seek for over an hour and had so much fun! And, yes, when I say "we" played, hubby and I were right there with them. Then, we were back at church Sunday night and took them home afterwards.

On the way home, we stopped at T@rget and I found something I've been looking for months. Not a need, just a very strong want. Yes, folks, my name is Lisa Kay, I'm an adult and I want a Wii. I'm not ashamed. Not only did I finally find one, but the Lord worked it out that is was on sale! Thank you, Lord!

Hubby is setting it up tonight, so I anticipate lots of fun. I think we're going to invite our Sunday School class over next Sunday night for us to play together. Good times!

Especially Heather

2007-08-17T08:39:00.001-07:00

Some of you may be following Heather's journey at Especially Heather. She is about to begin another round of chemo. Let's lift her up in prayer!

Frugal Friday-Saving Change

2007-08-17T07:47:00.001-07:00

Crystal is hosting Frugal Friday today and I enjoy participating. And learning!

Coincidentally, my tip is quite similar to Michelle's at Life's Accidental Journey. We both have the same philosophy, but put it into practice a little differently.

My husband and I have a habit of never spending "silver" change. All of our silver change is rolled up and deposited into our savings account. We have a vase in our bedroom and at the end of the day or "ever so often," we deposit all of our change into a vase in our bedroom, except for pennies. When the vase is full, I'll roll it. Since there are no pennies, the money total is pretty high each time. (over $100 typically - and it's money we didn't even miss!) Usually we deposit it directly to savings, but we've also used it for our spending money on vacation.

(This is a personal preference - I just don't like to roll pennies. They take as long to roll as any other denomination, but you only get 50 cents for your time.) If I'm at the store and the total is $1.51, I'll give the clerk a penny, then I'll have 2 quarters to add to the vase. I try to spend my pennies so that I can save my other change.

Free Pattern

2007-08-16T09:49:00.001-07:00

I found this at Turkey Feathers and thought I would pass it along

I'm just learning how to sew and I thought this might be a fun project. If you go here, you can download the Butterick pattern - with instructions - for free. There are a few other projects there, too, but I thought this one was the cutest.

WFMW-getting rid of food residue

2007-08-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

Shannon at Rocks in my Dryer is hosting Works for me Wednesday this week.

My tip is how to get rid of stubborn food that is baked on dishes or (gasp!) went through the dishwasher once and is still there.

This works for me 100% of the time: I take the dish and pour a *little* (1/2 a spoonful?) of powdered dishwashing detergent in/on it, then add water - warm or cold. (Wherever the food residue is, that part needs to be covered with water.) Let it set overnight. The next morning, I'll pour out the water and then rinse it with the sprayer. The food just slides right off! Then I wash as usual.

(I've heard that you do the same thing with a used dryer sheet. I'm not sure if this is true or not, but if you find out it works, let me know!)

Either way, getting my dishes clean without using a lot of elbow grease - Works for Me!

Salmon

2007-08-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have a very easy salmon "recipe." (I've said before - I use that term loosely.)

I basically put my salmon on a cookie sheet and pour a marinade on top. My personal favorite is a spicy teriyaki sauce that I can only find at Super T*rget. It's a bit strong (which is a plus to me), but you can use as much or little as you like. I used to pour it on top, then bake it, but I found that most of it just runs right off and bakes to the pan (lots of fun). Now, I just bake it (typically 350 degrees) and pour the marinade on top as I take it out - or leave it plain and set the bottle on the table.

Other than grilling, the only other way I've ever prepared salmon is to poach it (I saw Rachae! R*ay do it and I just had to try it.) Start with a shallow baking dish. Place your salmon in there, then pour chicken stock in your dish, nearly submerging the salmon. Add some rosemary to the salmon and in the stock and it will have nice flavor.

We both enjoyed the poached salmon, but still prefer the marinade - which is fine by me because it is so easy!

One other thing. Salmon can be baked from frozen! This was such a help to me. If I *forgot* to set out a meat the day before, I wasn't "dinner-less." Just fix salmon (cooking about an hour) and add any side. Actually, that is the way I prefer to prepare it now because I can just throw it in the oven, do something else for 45 minutes, come back and spend 15 minutes preparing side dishes and dinner is done!

I'm not sure what is the "proper" way to handle the skin of the salmon, but this is what works for me. I cook it with the skin on, but I use my spatula to serve it. When I do, I just slide it in at the bottom (between the meat and the skin) and just leave the skin on the pan.

Hope this helps you.

Tilapia

2007-08-13T06:33:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share my tilapia "recipe" (I use that term loosely.) I plan on posting a few recipes, but really my recipes aren't recipes - it's more like "this is how I fix ____." A little of this, a little of that, you can use more or less depending on your taste, etc...

Hubby and I like baked tilapia best. But, I still want it to have some sort of crunch to it. I buy the fish fry seasoning and pour a few tablespoons (depending on how many fillets I'm fixing) into a zip bag and shake&bake at 350 degrees.

The fish fry mix gives it a little spice. If I'm out or in the mood for something different, I'll use cornmeal with a few bread crumbs. Top off with a little pepper - deelish!

Or, just use lemon pepper seasoning sprinkled on top.

Tilapia is one of the healthiest fish(es) out there and it doesn't taste very "fishy."

Hope this helps someone!

Menu Planning Monday

2007-08-13T05:49:00.001-07:00

Laura at I'm an Organizing Junkie is hosing Menu Planning Monday again this week and this is my plan for the week:

Monday - Going out for MIL's bday

Tuesday- Salmon with grilled veggies

Wednesday- leftovers/snacks (We always do something quick on Wednesdays)

Thursday- tilapia, whole grain rice, green beans

Friday- (our Friday favorite) baked buffalo tenders and baked French fries

What are you having?

Who else would have us?

2007-08-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

Some say my husband and I have a sick sense of humor. It's OK, though, because we're think we're just hysterically funny. However, occasionally, trouble can arise when we don't get the other's so-called sense of humor.

I have been working on some serious organizing. Boxing up stuff and moving to the attic, but before I do, making-a-list-of-what's-in-the-box-and-saving-it-on-the-computer-organizing.

Serious. Stuff.

I have a hard time knowing what to do with "stuff." Not items I use or set out, but just "stuff."

So, I got inspired by an idea I read and I am now putting it in action. I am numbering plastic storage totes, then listing its contents in Word, then putting the totes in the attic.

What's in the totes?

Stuff.

Stuff that I can't throw away.

Some of the dresses my mom saved from when I was a baby. Love letters exchanged by my parents when my parents were "courting" when Daddy was in the service. Beautiful vases that I don't really have an occasion to use often (less than once a year), but can't bear to part with. Stuff that is sentimentally valuable, but doesn't see the light of day often. Stuff that I can go years without seeing, but I would miss it if it were gone.

You know. Stuff.

One thing I'm wanting to store is my mother's china. I love it and it's beautiful, but I don't know what to do with it, so I'm putting it in the attic.

Here's what the story gets a little fuzzy.

I gave hubby the box with the China and said, "OK. This box has my mom's China. PLEASE be especially careful with this box. It's sentimental and breakable."

Hubby picks up the box (we're in the basement) and takes it upstairs to the main floor. All of the sudden I hear boom! boom! boom! Obviously, my precious box has fallen down the stairs.

So, I do what I typically do in a panic situation.

I cried.

Quietly, mind you. It was an accident. I'm not hysterical or anything, but the tears are falling down my face.

A couple seconds later, hubby sticks his head in the room I'm in and suddenly his face changes and he loudly says, "I'm so sorry!"

I understand accidents happen, but the words won't come.

He says, "No, you don't get it. I was just kidding. I threw one of my work boots down the stairs. That's what you heard. The dishes are fine. Really."

Me, "What?"

Him, "I was just trying to be funny. I thought you'd get mad, then you'd see that it was just a boot and then we'd laugh." [insert nervous laughter here]

Me, "You thought it would be funny to pretend like my dead mother's China had been broken to bits?"

(Pause.)

Him, "Well, not when you put it like that."

And that's when we both started laughing.

We jokingly say when one of us does something silly (that might irritate the other one), "It's a good thing God picked us out for each other. No one else would have us!"

Which One?

2007-08-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

I found this over and Blessed Mom of Four Boys and thought I'd play along. Although, I must confess, I'm never good at trying to choose between A or B. I usually prefer C!

Which one?
Lace or ribbon? ribbon
Mountain or beach? mountain
Reading or writing? reading
Cookie or cake? cookie
Baked or mashed potato? baked
Side or back? back
Shrimp or steak? shrimp
Scrambled or fried? scrambled
Orange or apple? apple
Spring or fall? FALL!
Roller skating or bowling? roller skating
Dvd or theatre movies? DVD
Wood or glass? Wood
Blue or green? green
Chocolate or vanilla? vanilla
Quilt or knit? crochet
Early morning or late evening? content with either
Coffee or tea? hot chocolate!
Watermelon or strawberry? watermelon
Lunch or dinner? dinner
Cold cereal or oatmeal? oatmeal
Song or dance? song
Carpet or hardwood floor? have carpet, prefer hardwood
Red or pink? pink
Cat or dog? dog
Pretzels or chips? chips
Iced tea or lemonade? I'm a Georgia girl - sweet tea!
Non-fiction or fiction? fiction
Rose or daisy? daisy
Sunrise or sunset? sunset
Comb or brush? brush
Pottery or basket? basket
Bracelet or necklace? necklace
Pen or pencil? pen
Couch or chair? couch
Country or victorian? neither
Farm or ranch? farm
Braid or ponytail? ponytail
Cash or check? credit card
Chocolate bar or jelly bean? chocolate bar
Coke or pepsi? Coke
Hot dog or cheeseburger? cheeseburger
Blinds or curtains? curtains
Dress or pants? capris
Sun or moon? sun
Adventure or comedy? comedy
Cloud or star? cloud
Lake or river? lake
Half full or half empty? half full - always!
Truck or car? car
Bath or shower? shower
Clothesline or clothes dryer? dryer
New or second hand? new, usually
Gum or lifesaver? lifesaver
Email or handwritten? email
July or October? October- the month I got married!
Barefoot or shoes? barefoot indoors, shoes outside

If you play along, please leave a comment!

Frugal Friday

2007-08-10T08:53:00.001-07:00

Biblical Womanhood is hosting Frugal Friday again today and I just love it!

My frugal tip is dealing with your cable provider. Ours is constantly advertising specials. We never pay full price for the movie channels - and often get them for free!

I'll call occasionally and ask what special they currently have. Oftentimes, there is an unadvertised special that is great. We've gotten free movie channels for 3 months. We've never paid more than $5 for 3 months of premium channels. Considering it is nearly $4 to rent ONE movie, this is a big savings. About the time we've seen all they have to offer, I'll call and cancel.

That is an important step - once the 90 days is up, call to cancel the service or they will start charging you. I will often write it in my planner or calendar it in Outlook.

For more tips, visit Crystal at Biblical Womanhood!

Prayer Request

2007-08-10T08:49:00.000-07:00

Daddy has been trying to witness to the family across the street from him and the mom is now going through an especially rough time.

Last night her boyfriend came home after drinking with the guys and was starting trouble at home. She sent her little boy (who's starting kindergarten Monday) to go get my dad because she was afraid for her safety. Long story short: he's gone, but she is concerned about how to pay the mortgage without his income. She wasn't able to go into work that day due to car trouble and was fired.

In addition to the problems they are going through, this family needs the Lord most of all.

If you have time, please pray for: E (mom), R (boyfriend), D (son) and I (baby).
Thank you.

Five Links

2007-08-09T08:32:00.000-07:00

I saw this meme at Life's Accidental Journey and thought I'd play along.

There are Five Rules:
1. MUST be clean. No R rated sites.
2. Only FIVE links.
3. MUST tell 5 people.
4. A link back to the person who tagged you
5. Lara’s Place is the meme originator. (an active link would be appreciated)

They can be business links, favorite sites, affiliate links, whatever you want…

So, I'm going with the five links that I either use the most or find most entertaining.

1. Guess the Sitcom Character This site is just generally cool. It's almost like the site can ready your mind. Kinda. Sorta. Think of a television character in your head, then it asks you a series of yes/no questions and at the end, it tells you who you're thinking of.

2. Splitcoast Stampers. I enjoy making cards and other items using my rubber stamps and this site has lots of great ideas. And, the site is organized quite nicely and has a search feature.

3. Wists I am learning how to sew and this site has great step by step instructions (with pictures!). I am getting some great ideas for Christmas presents already!

4. Typing Test This is a free site that will let you know how many words per minute you type. I was curious about my speed and still check it occasionally.

5. Sheep Dash Game This is just a silly game that will gauge your reaction time. You click your mouse as you see sheep moving across you screen. My husband and I joke because he has a very slow reaction time, but when it comes to this game, he beats me every time!

I hope you found something here that you will enjoy. I don't really have any regular readers to tag, so if you're reading this consider yourself tagged!

Saving at Target

2007-08-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

Crystal at Biblical Womanhood is hosting Frugal Friday.

I confess: I am not good at keeping up with my receipts!

My post is not necessarily about saving money, but a way to ensure that you can return items, even without a receipt. It certainly saves money to be able to exchange items that don't fit or to be able to return an item if I bought too many.

I love to shop at T*arget. Their stores are always clean and I just love the merchandise in general. I, however, do not love their return policy. No receipt, no return. Period. The customer can exchange an item, but that's it. And, an exchange must be for a "like item." Returning a game, get a different one. That doesn't really help, I don't think.

Anyway, here's the good news. I always pay for my "stuff" at Target with either a credit card (with a rewards program - and I pay it off in full each month) or use a debit card/check. I never use cash. T*arget keeps a record of the purchase on file for 90 days. If I need to make a return, I simply walk up to customer service, hand the clerk the item, let her scan it, swipe my card, and I am automatically credited the amount of my original purchase. Takes less than two minutes!

Being able to get my money back if I need it helps me!

Thankful Thursday

2007-08-02T11:58:00.001-07:00

Sting My Heart is hosting "Thankful Thursday."

I'd like to say that I'm thankful for the following:

Jesus Christ, whose love for me, I can not even grasp. Without Him, I couldn't love others, including-

My wonderful husband, who is my perfect partner in live (neither one of us are perfect, but we're a perfect match - make sense?)

Parents who didn't send me to church, but took me to church. There's a big difference!

I'm thankful that it's August because that means September will soon be here - I love the fall!

Amazing friends. I'll never be someone with a "huge circle" of friends, but my friends are very precious to me - and they are high quality!
Lou. We have the best dog in the world! We do, however, realize that she is a dog, but she's the best!

What are you thankful for today?

Tigers vs. Mosquitoes

2007-07-31T10:07:00.001-07:00

This is a phrase I heard a long time ago, but I think it's very true:

It's not the tigers in the jungle that gets you. It's the mosquitoes.

Meaning, it's not the big things that occasionally come up that get you, it's small daily occurrences that can bring you down.

Sometimes, I just get in a funk about our home. It's completely my fault, I admit it. Right now, I really want to do some major organizing. Major. Organizing.

But where to start?

I should straighten up our laundry room. Some of the things I want to move should go in a cabinet in our kitchen. But, that cabinet needs to get straightened first. I want to move our computer to the desk in our bedroom and move the desk the computer is currently on to my craft room. Two fold problem: I need to straighten both the desk in our bedroom and my craftroom to make room for the desk. I want to get one of those wall-mounted-bracket things for the tv in my craft room and move the tv stand to another room. I don't even know where to buy the wall-bracket thing (technical term).

I feel like I have some good ideas for things to do to improve our home, but to do one thing, I have several steps in that one project.

And those things just don't get done when I'm laying on the couch.

Menu Planning Monday

2007-07-30T07:27:00.000-07:00

(Notice, I have finally figured out how to to add a banner/image - woo-hoo!!) :o)

Laura at I'm an Organizing Junkie is hosing Menu Planning Monday again this week and this is my plan for the week.

Monday-spaghetti
Tuesday-baked tillapia, green beans, whole grain rice
Wednesday-pb&j sandwich (Wed. is church night and it's hard to always do a full dinner, plus, we love pb&j's!)
Thursday-grilled chicken and grilled veggies (corn, mushrooms, squash, zucchini)
Friday-baked Buffalo chicken fingers, baked french fries

Guess Who's Pregnant!

2007-07-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

No one in particular.

That was just a trick to get your attention. Did it work?

Hubby and I do not have any children. We've been married for close to 9 years and, frankly, we are quite content with our life just as it is. We *love* children! We're the couple at church that everyone else's kids sit with. (Yes, I just ended a sentence with a preposition.) Outside of church, we tickle and wrestle and chase and have a general good time - with other people's children. Several friends have asked us to be their child's godparents. We have a list of people who are not allowed to fly together! :o)

As far as we're concerned, we may be (bio)children free for the rest of our lives. And we're fine. Really. We haven't "tried" to have children and battled infertility. We don't dislike children. The truth of the matter is that we've never felt God urging us to have children.

Those of you who are parents remember when you got that feeling. That something. That nudge. That desire.

We've never had that.

Sometimes I think, "Um, God. Have you forgotten about giving us that feeling?" If we felt that, I'm sure our life would take a turn. Until then, it's just us.

Some people feel that "everyone" should have children. They'll quote Genesis "Be fruitful and multiply." I think when scripture is used, the context of that scripture is important. Anyone can make the Bible mean anything. What if you were flipping around and read where Judas hung himself, then flipped over a few pages and read, "Go and do thou likewise." Obviously those verses do not go together.

J and I feel like parenting is a calling. Until we are called, all we can do is be ready.

It's OK to ask us if we're thinking about having children. Just don't ask us if we're thinking about starting a family.

The two of us are a family.

Let the Fun Begin (or not)

2007-07-26T10:58:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in every woman's life that she knows will come. She has dreaded that time and put it off as long as she can, but she knows it's coming whether she's ready or not.

I'm sure you've suffered from it.

We've all been there.

Now, the time has come for me.

Yes, folks, I went swimsuit. shopping.

At the end of July.

When everything is picked over and mismatched.

Non. Stop. Fun.

So, I did the best thing I could do.

I went online.

And, this is where the story actually picks up. I went to the Land*s End website and had remarkable luck! I bought a "tankini." It's two pieces, but I am completely covered. (Obviously.) AND (the fun continues) I got a very cute coordinating coverup, that came with a matching purse! Hubby and I are planning to go on a cruise in November (our first) and I felt like I needed a little something to make sure I'd feel comfortable. I'll be walking around in my suit a lot, so I thought I'd splurge a bit.

This is where it gets quite humorous.

I really don't know what swimsuits are supposed to cost. I am a bargain girl by nature and couldn't really tell you the last time I paid full price for anything.

So, I asked my friends this question: How much would you spend on a swimming suit?

I got the same reply most everytime: "That depends. What will it do?"

I cracked up! Like, it's a car that comes with features. "This is the deluxe. It has the ability to lift and separate at the top, slim and compress the middle, while not doing anything to accent the bottom."

What does it do?

Unfortunately, not even Land*s End offers magical swimsuits.