We returned around 9pm from an AMAZING trip to Canada. I will definitely elaborate later, but it was just fantastic, and i've really come back with a better attitude about a lot of things. I'm ready to tackle whatever comes at work, work through some of my work issues with a refreshed mind, and darnit if i'm not so inspired by the foods we ate on this trip that i'm itching to get in the kitchen and cook up some tasty healthy meals for us!
We have wonderful WONDERFUL friends who hosted us for five nights, and we did a couple of nights on our own as well. We haven't been on a week-long vacation since our honeymoon - and have decided it's now a mandatory to do that at least once each year, instead of a bunch of short vacations!
We're thinking of a trip in December - for my 30th. Originally we were going to have a party of some sort, but now we've got the travel bug. I'd love some ideas for destination ideas around Christmas that aren't over the top expensive!
Showing posts with label thinking positive. Show all posts
Showing posts with label thinking positive. Show all posts
Monday, July 28, 2008
Thursday, June 19, 2008
On Self-Control
I've been thinking alot lately about self-control and about willpower.
I have such a hard time willing myself to eat healthy and exercise, and an even harder time with willing myself to stick with it.
In every other aspect of my life i've always held back. I've always been afraid of losing control, but somehow it's food that i find the most comfort in letting myself go completely.
I come from a family of drinkers. I hesitate to say alcoholics, mostly because I'm probably not ready to admit that. But I knew at a very early age that I never wanted to need to drink like my parents and sibling and so many others in my family do. Don't get me wrong, I like a cold beer, a really dry glass of wine, and the occasional margarita or martini. But even in my most comfortable of situations, I rarely let myself get drunk. My husband can probably count those times on one hand in 6 years of being together. These addictive tendencies are hereditary though, right?
When I was still single, I held back tremendously with those I dated. With sex, with commitment in some aspects and with really letting people "in."
I was never one to experiment with drugs much (and hey - i went to art school and lots of phish and DMB shows!). I never got wild and went to parties. But food -- food was always there, and I have always been willing to let loose and find comfort in that. When I have a bad day at work, I have always turned to food instead of hobbies, exercise, entertainment, or even a beer.
It's just something interesting i've been mulling over about myself. I think that in the six years that i've been with my husband, I've really changed in a lot of ways. I was a total introvert in so many situations. I was afraid to do alot of things alone, though my stubbornness never let that side of myself show too much. He's brought me out of my shell in a lot of ways, and the funny part is that he's a pretty introspective person himself.
I don't hold back anymore on things so much out of fear, but by choice, and I'm hoping that as my own self continues this evolution, I'll continue to find ways to channel my comfort needs into other things, and to control my urges where food is concerned. I know that a big part of this journey is about recognizing my own behaviors and learning to change them. And I think this is a good start.
I have such a hard time willing myself to eat healthy and exercise, and an even harder time with willing myself to stick with it.
In every other aspect of my life i've always held back. I've always been afraid of losing control, but somehow it's food that i find the most comfort in letting myself go completely.
I come from a family of drinkers. I hesitate to say alcoholics, mostly because I'm probably not ready to admit that. But I knew at a very early age that I never wanted to need to drink like my parents and sibling and so many others in my family do. Don't get me wrong, I like a cold beer, a really dry glass of wine, and the occasional margarita or martini. But even in my most comfortable of situations, I rarely let myself get drunk. My husband can probably count those times on one hand in 6 years of being together. These addictive tendencies are hereditary though, right?
When I was still single, I held back tremendously with those I dated. With sex, with commitment in some aspects and with really letting people "in."
I was never one to experiment with drugs much (and hey - i went to art school and lots of phish and DMB shows!). I never got wild and went to parties. But food -- food was always there, and I have always been willing to let loose and find comfort in that. When I have a bad day at work, I have always turned to food instead of hobbies, exercise, entertainment, or even a beer.
It's just something interesting i've been mulling over about myself. I think that in the six years that i've been with my husband, I've really changed in a lot of ways. I was a total introvert in so many situations. I was afraid to do alot of things alone, though my stubbornness never let that side of myself show too much. He's brought me out of my shell in a lot of ways, and the funny part is that he's a pretty introspective person himself.
I don't hold back anymore on things so much out of fear, but by choice, and I'm hoping that as my own self continues this evolution, I'll continue to find ways to channel my comfort needs into other things, and to control my urges where food is concerned. I know that a big part of this journey is about recognizing my own behaviors and learning to change them. And I think this is a good start.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
I can DO this!
:)
I feel really good about my day today. I made wise choices for food. I planned my eating in advance, I took a nice long walk (boy it's been gorgeous outside), and I'm getting ready to go to bed nice and early tonight.
It's amazing what a difference a day can make!
Now it's time for me to pack my lunch for tomorrow and get settled into bed with a book! What a great day!
I feel really good about my day today. I made wise choices for food. I planned my eating in advance, I took a nice long walk (boy it's been gorgeous outside), and I'm getting ready to go to bed nice and early tonight.
It's amazing what a difference a day can make!
Now it's time for me to pack my lunch for tomorrow and get settled into bed with a book! What a great day!
Monday, June 9, 2008
My own two month challenge!
After several weeks of really not knowing how to get serious about my eating because of endless weeks of crazy commitments, work, and social happenings, i'm back and ready to go.
I am officially trying REALLY hard not to plan up my evenings, and instead penciling in time for workouts, meal planning, and mental health.
My goal is to lose 15 pounds before we go to Toronto on the 22nd of July. That's six weeks away. I sure hope I can do that. And I'd like to be 20 pounds down by mid-August. I'll be sure to update regularly, but I don't FEEL good these days. And I need to find more energy, fit into my clothes better and just generally feel better about myself.
Here's to yet one more try!
I am officially trying REALLY hard not to plan up my evenings, and instead penciling in time for workouts, meal planning, and mental health.
My goal is to lose 15 pounds before we go to Toronto on the 22nd of July. That's six weeks away. I sure hope I can do that. And I'd like to be 20 pounds down by mid-August. I'll be sure to update regularly, but I don't FEEL good these days. And I need to find more energy, fit into my clothes better and just generally feel better about myself.
Here's to yet one more try!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Day 1: Taking Care of Myself
Yesterday, as most days seem to be, was crazy for me. After work I had several errands to run, including: picking up my new glasses (yay!), picking up milk and yogurt at the grocery store, figuring out dinner (I cheated and picked up a pizza - but we haven't had pizza since December!), and going to see Chris' grandparents. I was also supposed to design letterhead and #10 envelopes for my cousin's campaign for judge and make some edits on a web site that i'm designing with my friend Lisa (my very first!).
Well I was a total task master, and got it all done except for the site edits, which I just told Lisa i'd finish up tonight. We even stopped and got ice cream to take to Chris' grandparents. And yes, I indulged in that, too.
We got home around 9, and I was all done with everything on that list in under four hours. I was very proud. So from 9pm on - was ME time.
I took the time to lay out an outfit for myself today, and iron what I wanted to wear. And I feel fantastic today just wearing something that I feel GOOD in. I have an important meeting this afternoon, so I'm ready to tackle that. I also made myself a very GOOD lunch that's high in protein and veggies.
Then I laid down and read a book for a half hour. I never get to read anymore. It was fantastic!
Small steps, I know - but every little bit helps!
Well I was a total task master, and got it all done except for the site edits, which I just told Lisa i'd finish up tonight. We even stopped and got ice cream to take to Chris' grandparents. And yes, I indulged in that, too.
We got home around 9, and I was all done with everything on that list in under four hours. I was very proud. So from 9pm on - was ME time.
I took the time to lay out an outfit for myself today, and iron what I wanted to wear. And I feel fantastic today just wearing something that I feel GOOD in. I have an important meeting this afternoon, so I'm ready to tackle that. I also made myself a very GOOD lunch that's high in protein and veggies.
Then I laid down and read a book for a half hour. I never get to read anymore. It was fantastic!
Small steps, I know - but every little bit helps!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Who Doesn't LOVE Free Stuff?
Scale Junkie is giving away a free bike. Check it out. I entered myself today. HOORAY!
Monday, April 28, 2008
Oh the Anticipation!
I can't wait to see the results of this week's pedometer challenge! I think I did pretty well this week since on Wednesday I logged over 10 miles! I was on a trip to Madison, Wisconsin and had some hours to burn on Wednesday afternoon. Well burn, I did! It was a gorgeous, sunny 80 degree day. I did some exploring, met my friend for dinner and my uncle for after-dinner drinks. What a fabulous day!
It's been a busy busy past five days. With a whirlwind trip and some other family issues going on, I really had a nice (and somewhat emotional) time off. I'm totally procrastinating getting back into work, too! I ate well, and last I had checked, I lost the 3 pounds i've gained over the last few weeks. If I can keep up with the exercise regimen, and making good food choices, I think I can keep the momentum of not counting points, making wise choices and only eating until i'm full.
I unpacked most of my summer clothes this weekend and two pairs of capris I couldn't wear at the end of last season did fit. That's a good sign. I'm eager to keep going.
I had the realization this morning in my car that i'll be 30 in about 7 months. I promised myself I'd be 40 pounds lighter on my 30th birthday than on my 29th. So I have about 30 pounds to go. Time to get crackin!!
It's been a busy busy past five days. With a whirlwind trip and some other family issues going on, I really had a nice (and somewhat emotional) time off. I'm totally procrastinating getting back into work, too! I ate well, and last I had checked, I lost the 3 pounds i've gained over the last few weeks. If I can keep up with the exercise regimen, and making good food choices, I think I can keep the momentum of not counting points, making wise choices and only eating until i'm full.
I unpacked most of my summer clothes this weekend and two pairs of capris I couldn't wear at the end of last season did fit. That's a good sign. I'm eager to keep going.
I had the realization this morning in my car that i'll be 30 in about 7 months. I promised myself I'd be 40 pounds lighter on my 30th birthday than on my 29th. So I have about 30 pounds to go. Time to get crackin!!
Monday, April 14, 2008
HOORAY!
I made it back to the gym tonight after a long hiatus - and I feel awesome!
I walked the dog before I went, and that fresh air really helped me. I did 40 minutes of cardio, and lower body weights. I came home feeling energized and breathing easier.
Isn't it amazing what a workout can do for you? Tomorrow my plan is to work on designing a web page - my first ever. And to pilates, and make a good tofu/veggie stirfry.
I realize that if I can just keep up my workout regimen I WILL lose weight. My eating isn't perfect, but it isn't awful either. I did pretty good today, with the exception of some cheez-its right before the gym. As long as I keep my fridge stocked with healthy snacks and meal options, i'm doing alright. For me, it's all about pre-planning and keeping up the workouts!
Happy Monday!
I walked the dog before I went, and that fresh air really helped me. I did 40 minutes of cardio, and lower body weights. I came home feeling energized and breathing easier.
Isn't it amazing what a workout can do for you? Tomorrow my plan is to work on designing a web page - my first ever. And to pilates, and make a good tofu/veggie stirfry.
I realize that if I can just keep up my workout regimen I WILL lose weight. My eating isn't perfect, but it isn't awful either. I did pretty good today, with the exception of some cheez-its right before the gym. As long as I keep my fridge stocked with healthy snacks and meal options, i'm doing alright. For me, it's all about pre-planning and keeping up the workouts!
Happy Monday!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Pampering Myself
I don't get haircuts nearly as often as I should. I'll admit it. Having naturally curly hair, I just tend to let it go, because it's really hard to tell.
Chris encouraged me yesterday to do something nice for myself, because I have some things on the horizon that are stressing me out and exciting me all at the same time, and he felt like i needed it. And I do.
So today, I paid a visit to lovely lovely Muna. And she cut and flat-ironed my hair, which I always love. Here's the cheesy photo booth shot for y'all.
I took the 23rd-25th of April off of work, for some of these things on the horizon, and I scheduled a manicure for the morning of the 23rd. I can't wait!
I've been making really good food choices all this week, but I have to admit, that the weather's been too nice to go to the gym. I've been spending time outside in the fresh air, walking the dog. It's been awesome. I know i'm not burning the calories I should, but I'm sleeping like a baby, and that makes all the difference.
Pilates tonight though! And back to my workout routine for sure this weekend. Next week I haven't scheduled a single thing for myself after work, and I plan to plan and cook good healthy meals and work out!
Chris encouraged me yesterday to do something nice for myself, because I have some things on the horizon that are stressing me out and exciting me all at the same time, and he felt like i needed it. And I do.
So today, I paid a visit to lovely lovely Muna. And she cut and flat-ironed my hair, which I always love. Here's the cheesy photo booth shot for y'all.
I took the 23rd-25th of April off of work, for some of these things on the horizon, and I scheduled a manicure for the morning of the 23rd. I can't wait!
I've been making really good food choices all this week, but I have to admit, that the weather's been too nice to go to the gym. I've been spending time outside in the fresh air, walking the dog. It's been awesome. I know i'm not burning the calories I should, but I'm sleeping like a baby, and that makes all the difference.
Pilates tonight though! And back to my workout routine for sure this weekend. Next week I haven't scheduled a single thing for myself after work, and I plan to plan and cook good healthy meals and work out!
Monday, April 7, 2008
Cleveland LOVES Don Henley
We had a really really fun weekend in Cleveland. And to qualify my headline (my husband will be proud!), we heard Don Henley/The Eagles all over the place up there. After a long drive up there Friday night, we went to bed around midnight, only about 45 minutes after we arrived.
Saturday morning, I had to be up to be at a 9am photo shoot about 45 minutes from my friends' house, where we were staying. I was quite a nervous wreck about the whole thing, and didn't sleep really well. I worried for nothing, because it all went really well, and I was back to our friends' house by noon.
We left for lunching at the Willoughby Brewing Company. It was excellent. Kelly and I split a portobella wrap and fries, and our boys each got their own personal heart attacks on a plate. Afterwards we went bowling. We had a blast. I realize I am totally immature by starting this, but it sure made the day fun. We started the "that's what she said" game. By the end of the second game of bowling, my sides hurt from laughing. It's way too easy when you're bowling especially. For example, Frank said "man, I just can't seem to find the right spot with this ball." THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID!!
Okay, maybe it was funnier if you were there!
We also went out to dinner that evening, and I fared well with king crab legs and a salad. Then came dessert. And Chris refused to share his. Yes, they were that good. So I ordered my own and made everyone share it with me. For the record - it was one of the best cheesecakes i've ever had.
Sunday we drove back early, so Chris and I could both attend separate evening engagements that I won't even go into.
Today though? I'm in my points range. I walked the dog tonight, and i'm heading to the gym. I'm going to the grocery store afterwards to stock up on some food for the week. I'm going to have a great week. I can feel it!
On another note: I found out that Chris is apparently reading this blog from time to time. But I bet he's too shy to say hello!
Saturday morning, I had to be up to be at a 9am photo shoot about 45 minutes from my friends' house, where we were staying. I was quite a nervous wreck about the whole thing, and didn't sleep really well. I worried for nothing, because it all went really well, and I was back to our friends' house by noon.
We left for lunching at the Willoughby Brewing Company. It was excellent. Kelly and I split a portobella wrap and fries, and our boys each got their own personal heart attacks on a plate. Afterwards we went bowling. We had a blast. I realize I am totally immature by starting this, but it sure made the day fun. We started the "that's what she said" game. By the end of the second game of bowling, my sides hurt from laughing. It's way too easy when you're bowling especially. For example, Frank said "man, I just can't seem to find the right spot with this ball." THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID!!
Okay, maybe it was funnier if you were there!
We also went out to dinner that evening, and I fared well with king crab legs and a salad. Then came dessert. And Chris refused to share his. Yes, they were that good. So I ordered my own and made everyone share it with me. For the record - it was one of the best cheesecakes i've ever had.
Sunday we drove back early, so Chris and I could both attend separate evening engagements that I won't even go into.
Today though? I'm in my points range. I walked the dog tonight, and i'm heading to the gym. I'm going to the grocery store afterwards to stock up on some food for the week. I'm going to have a great week. I can feel it!
On another note: I found out that Chris is apparently reading this blog from time to time. But I bet he's too shy to say hello!
Monday, March 17, 2008
You win some, you lose some
I've taken a break from blogging for the last several days because my eating has been awful, my exercising has been limited to walking my dog, and my mood has been less than favorable because of work.
I took some steps last Friday to help myself remedy some of the work issues, and after working Saturday, I feel like i'm back on track to maybe work only about a 45 hour week this week. This is MAJOR.
I set out today to really concentrate on my eating, not really thinking about the chili cookoff that was scheduled at work. I'm embarrassed to say all that I ate today. And it all started with the fact that the lunch did not start until 1pm (I usually am starving by 11:30, and eat then), and I was eating Fritos that were sitting around because I was SO hungry.
Tomorrow's going to be a better day. It has to be. And I promised myself I would get back on track with my eating and with my exercising. And I promise you, my readers (all two of you out there!) that the posts to follow will be positive from an energized and on-track ME!!!!
I took some steps last Friday to help myself remedy some of the work issues, and after working Saturday, I feel like i'm back on track to maybe work only about a 45 hour week this week. This is MAJOR.
I set out today to really concentrate on my eating, not really thinking about the chili cookoff that was scheduled at work. I'm embarrassed to say all that I ate today. And it all started with the fact that the lunch did not start until 1pm (I usually am starving by 11:30, and eat then), and I was eating Fritos that were sitting around because I was SO hungry.
Tomorrow's going to be a better day. It has to be. And I promised myself I would get back on track with my eating and with my exercising. And I promise you, my readers (all two of you out there!) that the posts to follow will be positive from an energized and on-track ME!!!!
Sunday, March 2, 2008
A Nice Leisurely Saturday
I've had a pretty decent weekend foodwise. Friday night I did splurge on three glasses of white wine. I was so worked up about everything going on at work, and it' helped me relax. I know it's not really a healthy way of dealing with stress - but it sure felt good!
Yesterday I made it to the gym and did 35 minutes on the arc trainer. I'm really beginning to love that thing. I did upper body strength training, and Chris and I took the dog for a long walk in the sun! It was refreshing. After church, we went to dinner with our pastor, Ed, and two ladies from our church. It was nice. We went to the same Mexican place I visited last weekend with girlfriends. I convinced Chris to split the fajitas with me. He was very concerned that he'd leave hungry - but it was enough food for three people easily. And it was SOOO good. I ate more chips than I needed to, but I wasn't too worried. I'd made good choices all day long. We had every intention of going to see a movie after we stopped home to feed and let out the dog. But as we flipped channels for a few minutes, we found some good movies were on, and we settled in to watch Wedding Crashers. It was so relaxing. We eventually moved upstairs and curled up in bed with the dog betweeen us to watch the movie. I fell asleep by 11pm. But I needed the sleep!
This morning I got up, had some cereal and headed out to the gym. Today I did 40 minutes on the arc trainer and lower body strength training. I was so proud of 40 minutes on that machine. I really really like it. I haven't gotten bored on it yet. And i've worked myself up to a reasonable time after a long hiatus from the flu.
I had a grilled cheese and roasted turkey sandwich for lunch which was just amazing. Then I dropped Chris and his friend Jim off at UC for the basketball game and came into work. I'm still here. I did fall off the wagon a bit and splurged on some Graeter's we had in the freezer at work. It was worth every calorie, because I've really had some major chocolate cravings that I just want to satisfy so I can move on and not nibble on it here and there like I have been (hello thin mints in the freezer at home!).
Tonight, I am making Linda McCartney's Winter Lasagne recipe. It has lots of fresh spinach and mushrooms and not much cheese - it's sounds really healthy and really yummy. I'm also going to make a tofu-noodle stir fry for lunches this week, and prepare our meal for tomorrow night - Mahi Mahi, asparagus and fingerling potatoes. Sunday is my day to cook!
Back to work to get some stuff done so perhaps my week will be a bit less stressful!
I am still a little worried about stepping on the scale tomorrow morning, but we'll see what happens. I feel like i've eaten okay, but i'm not sure if it all will add up to a loss. If nothing else, I've gotten in three really good workouts this week, and two nights of Pilates at home. And i'm really starting to see the workout time as MY time to relax and unwind. This is a HUGE leap for me! Workouts have always always been a chore.
Yesterday I made it to the gym and did 35 minutes on the arc trainer. I'm really beginning to love that thing. I did upper body strength training, and Chris and I took the dog for a long walk in the sun! It was refreshing. After church, we went to dinner with our pastor, Ed, and two ladies from our church. It was nice. We went to the same Mexican place I visited last weekend with girlfriends. I convinced Chris to split the fajitas with me. He was very concerned that he'd leave hungry - but it was enough food for three people easily. And it was SOOO good. I ate more chips than I needed to, but I wasn't too worried. I'd made good choices all day long. We had every intention of going to see a movie after we stopped home to feed and let out the dog. But as we flipped channels for a few minutes, we found some good movies were on, and we settled in to watch Wedding Crashers. It was so relaxing. We eventually moved upstairs and curled up in bed with the dog betweeen us to watch the movie. I fell asleep by 11pm. But I needed the sleep!
This morning I got up, had some cereal and headed out to the gym. Today I did 40 minutes on the arc trainer and lower body strength training. I was so proud of 40 minutes on that machine. I really really like it. I haven't gotten bored on it yet. And i've worked myself up to a reasonable time after a long hiatus from the flu.
I had a grilled cheese and roasted turkey sandwich for lunch which was just amazing. Then I dropped Chris and his friend Jim off at UC for the basketball game and came into work. I'm still here. I did fall off the wagon a bit and splurged on some Graeter's we had in the freezer at work. It was worth every calorie, because I've really had some major chocolate cravings that I just want to satisfy so I can move on and not nibble on it here and there like I have been (hello thin mints in the freezer at home!).
Tonight, I am making Linda McCartney's Winter Lasagne recipe. It has lots of fresh spinach and mushrooms and not much cheese - it's sounds really healthy and really yummy. I'm also going to make a tofu-noodle stir fry for lunches this week, and prepare our meal for tomorrow night - Mahi Mahi, asparagus and fingerling potatoes. Sunday is my day to cook!
Back to work to get some stuff done so perhaps my week will be a bit less stressful!
I am still a little worried about stepping on the scale tomorrow morning, but we'll see what happens. I feel like i've eaten okay, but i'm not sure if it all will add up to a loss. If nothing else, I've gotten in three really good workouts this week, and two nights of Pilates at home. And i'm really starting to see the workout time as MY time to relax and unwind. This is a HUGE leap for me! Workouts have always always been a chore.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
What I Love About Today!
In an effort to be totally positive today, I invite you to join me in making a list about what's really good about today!
1. The days are getting LONGER!
2. The sun is out!
3. I got free passes to see "The Other Boleyn Girl" for tonight and we are going!
4. I'm going out to lunch with coworkers (we don't do this too often) for greek food!
5. My husband is the sweetest man I know, even when I'm crabby in the morning!
6. I had a really good committee meeting last night for my professional organization and it's got me really pumped about things we have planned!
7. Tomorrow is FRIDAY!
1. The days are getting LONGER!
2. The sun is out!
3. I got free passes to see "The Other Boleyn Girl" for tonight and we are going!
4. I'm going out to lunch with coworkers (we don't do this too often) for greek food!
5. My husband is the sweetest man I know, even when I'm crabby in the morning!
6. I had a really good committee meeting last night for my professional organization and it's got me really pumped about things we have planned!
7. Tomorrow is FRIDAY!
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