My Journal

[Ms. Lucy]

Errgh! Same darn weight as always 135. WHy can't I seem to break this? I know it's just a number, but nothing else has changed either. Oh well, I'm not really upset, just a bit frustrated. However, I know my routine has suffered the last few weeks from being so tired, so hopefully I can pick it up a bit and move forward. On a good note, I woke up this morning and took the dog for a 25 minute walk. I'll take her again at lunch. My weekend foods haven't been the best either, not bad, but not great. So I guess I shouldn't be surprised. The goal is still to get close to 130 by then end of the month. Mind you I'm still holding a bit of water from my period, but this week will make or break that goal. I really need to lose 2lbs to be in the running (lol). Whatever, jees, just get under 135 for awhile and I'll be happy (remember when I said 135 would make me happy-lol) Baby steps. I suppose the nice thing, however, is that I'm pretty darn happy with what I see in the mirror. Sure I need to lose more weight and my ass is huge, but I've worked pretty hard and I know it will pay off with persistance. I'm also going to try and find a trainer (if I can even afford it) to see if they can get things moving for me. I can always use the help!

Anyways, this week I'm adding more cardio in the form of walking/jogging. Well in the morning I'll walk/jog, noon I'll just walk. I'm also keeping up with the supersets for 1 more week. This time I'm adding another set for a total of 4. I think next week I'll move back to my 4 day split and try and go until failure on my 3rd and last set. Again, we'll see. This fatigue really killed me last week. I'm not sure if it was just my period, perhaps an iron deficiency or what. I'll be going for blood work at the end of the month, so we'll see what that shows, if anything.

Everything else is going ok. We take the puppy for her ultrasound tomorrow and I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I really hope she'll be alright.

That's about it. I'll post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Meals are looking pretty good today! (If I do say so myself!)

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1/2 cup grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: 1 apple; 1/2 cup Grape Nuts

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 10 asparagus spears; 1 roasted red bell pepper ; 1 slice ww bread

4:00 MEAL 4: 7 walnut halves; 1 peach

5:30 MEAL 5: Meal Replacement SHake + Glutamine

7:30 MEAL 6: 5 oz salmon; 1 slice ww bread (need to make brown rice); 1 medium zucchini; 8 asparagus spears; 2 cups spinach

+1/2 gallon pure water +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

TOTAL:
1643 Calories
139g (35%) Protein
215g (46%) Carbs
32g (18%) Fat
31 Fiber!!!

ADD: 3,000mg fish oil capsules

Exercise:
6:00am-: 25 Minute Walk with Dog
12:00pm-: 20 Minutes Elliptical
4:45pm-:35 Minute Leg Supersets (now 4 sets)
Cals Burned: 351 (according to Fitday)

[jpeg]

Don't get too down on yourself about losing pounds! Remember that the longer it takes for it to come off the more permanent it will most likely be. People that lose 10 pounds in a month always gain 15 back.

Your diet is immaculate - keep up the good work!

And I'm looking forward to puppy updates, hope she is doing well....

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks jpeg! I'm doing ok, really. It is a slow process, but I'm sticking too it--even if it's just so I can beat up some boys-lol!

Also we take our puppy tonight, so we should find out exactly what's wrong with her.

Aside from that I'm doing well. I had a great lower body workout yesturday--doing 4 sets rather than 3. Next week I'm going to switch things up again and go back to lifting heavier for 8-10 reps. I love the feeling of my legs about to fall off or arms bulging and burning, makes me feel tough! lol

I also had my teeth cleaned this morning--which feels great! Friday I'm going in to start my whitening, so I'm looking forward to some pearly whites here in a few weeks!

As for my meals, I'm doing well. We'll probably have to do subway tonight since we have to take the dog to the emergency clinic, but I'm honestly trying to cut back on eating so much of the crap. It's only a few nights a week, but it's really not necessary!

ANyways, that's bout it. Feeling good this morning and looking forward to seeing more progress, even if it's just in how my body feels. (I'll get there physically one day!!!)

I'll post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Had a good elliptical workout during lunch!! Food looks ok for today--I had to have the Subway since we're going to the animal hospital today. Could be worse:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1/2 cup grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: 1 apple; 1/2 cup Grape Nuts

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 10 asparagus spears; 2 cups spinach; 1 slice ww bread

4:00 MEAL 4: 7 walnut halves; 1 peach

5:30 MEAL 5: Meal Replacement Shake + Glutamine

7:30 MEAL 6: 6 inch grilled chicken sandwhich from Subway. (will eat broccoli if hungry when I get home)

+1/2 gallon pure water +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

TOTAL:
1631Calories
124g (31%) Protein
234g (51%) Carbs
31g (18%) Fat
30 Fiber!!!

ADD: 3,000mg fish oil capsules

Exercise:
12:00pm-: 30 Minutes Elliptical
4:45pm-:35 Minute Bi/Tri Supersets (now 4 sets)
Cals Burned: 325 (according to Fitday)

[Ms. Lucy]

Not doing too well because of the dog. I'll have to post later. HOnestly, my eating sucks, too. SO I may not post my meals.

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I'm still bummed out and having trouble eating. For breakfast all I could handle wasa banana. Around 10 I had an apple and a can of tuna. For lunch I did tuna, a slice of bread and broccoli. AT 4 I'll eat my walnuts and a peach. I think for dinner we'll just do wendy's chili. I'm totally exhausted, freezing (don't know why, but hence the bad chili). Then we're going to bed.

That being said, I'm trying hard not to neglect my health over the stress and such so I'll focus on getting some sleep tonight and waking refreshed tomorrow. ALso, I'm going to enter Ms. Fit's challenge in July as something to look forward to and keep me motivated. I need to spruce things up anyways, so now's my chance.

That's about it. I'm just trying to stay positive about my dog while also feeling silly because I know everyone in my office thinks I ridiculous. I'm just totally in that I want to curl up in a ball and have all the bad stuff go away mood. Even the hubby is saying lets screw it all and just move back to Tassie. Tempting, but I'm sure we'll just take our stress with us. There's just so much going on emotionally---but that's life i suppose.

I 'll try to go back and enter foods into fitday tomorrow, but I have no energy or desire to do so today.

[Ms. Lucy]

Ok, need to get back in the game, enough sulking. My puppy still upsets me, but there's nothing I can do until Friday when we see the specialist.

AFter speaking to my husband, we both agreed that we need to do some major cleaning/organizing so we can stop feeling so 0overwhelmed. it's one thing to have puupy problems, another to be all over with your weightloss, unaware of where you're at financially and coming home to a messing home. I'll seriously brake down if I don't address these soon. So today it's back to eating better. I'm also ordering Ms. Fit How to Lose Wight nbook to try carb rotation for the next 14 weeks. I need a change, and I certainly can't compalin about following the path of a woman with a body to die for-lol! I also need to spice up my lifting routine--so we're taking a full change here.!

My hubby is going to work on the financial stuff and make sure we're mving forward with the savings/retirement plan and we're both cleaning the house this weekend so long unless something is happening with Tyler.

Hopefully this should do the trick. I really need to have a focus now. WHen I don't I brake down, give myself and excuse to eat cruddy and drink. Of course that would make me a 150lb unhappy person rather than a somewhat healthy 134lb person I am today! Sure, I have a lot to take care of, but if I don't take care of me first, I'm not getting anywhere!

So that's my plan, and I'm sticking to it. I'm going to try and read the book this weekend and start implementing it next week if possible. Some things will be up in the air because of the dog, but I'll just have to work through it. For example, my mom is coming with me Friday, and we're going to bring our walking shoes. You usually have to wait so long for tests to be done, there's no reason why we can't get some fresh air and try and stay positive.

Anyways, that's really it. I'll try and post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I don't have time to track everything today, but things are going fine. I'm eating my regular meals and will easily get my 1500cal minimum for today. I'll have to grab something for dinner, however, because I may too many phone calls at lunch and thus, will have a long workout tonight. I also have to get the puppy ready for tomorrow.

Thanks for the prayers and support! Hopefully she'll get the help she needs tomorrow!!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well Great news. Tyler ended up NOT having early hear failure and is going in for heart surgery on Monday. the success rate is 95%, so she should live a long, happy dog's life!!

So now back to my eating right! I'm going to work out a schedule for carb rotation based on info from Ms. Fit. I'm also going to try and change up my workout routine and finally get out of this bloody plateau!

I still have a lot to work out, but I guess it's all a work in progress!

Anyways, I'll post back Monday with my new plan!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well, I'm feeling really good this morning and ready to start a new workout program!! This week I'm going to focu on trying to get at least 250g of carbs, mainly from brown rice. oatmeal and yams (also my apple). I'm also switching up my routine and will do the following:

Mon: Back/Bi
Tues: Chest/Tr
Wed: Off (yoga)
Thurs: Legs
Fri: Shoulders/Delts
Sat: Off
Sun: Off

INstead of the supersets I was doing before, I'm going to try and bump up the weight and do 3 sets in the 8-10 range. I will do 3 exercises for the larger muscle and 2 for the smaller. For my leg day, I'm trying a routine Ms. Fit suggests in one of her articles to that help in definition. I have HUGE leg muscles and want them to look more ripped--so we'll see!

I'm also going to keep my cal intake (hopefully) in the 1700 range. No more going below 1500. I will also be doing my cardio kickboxing again, which I had taken a break from. I will try to do that on Monday's and Fridays now and continue my yoga on Wednesday's. On Tuesday and Thursday this week I will be doing the elliptical. Thus, for 4 days I will be doing about 30 minutes of cardio. I will have Saturday and Sunday off from both, and since my puppy will be recovering from heart surgery, it will probably be awhile until we're back to walking in the mornings!

Today I'm at 134 (still) and I'm positive that this new schedule and eating plan will help me break my plateau and get me under the 130 mark relatively soon! In the weeks to come I will be trying to lower my carbs slightly and see if see results. I'll just have to make sure that my energy stays high!

That's it for now. Puppy has her heart surgery today and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that all will go well.

I'll post my meals later!

Lucy!

[Ms. Lucy]

Looking good today, still no word on my puppy though. I also have a slight sick feeling in the back of my throat which hopefully isn't anything. Anyways, here's how I look for today:


7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1/2 cup grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: 1 apple; 3 egg whites

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 1 cup brown rice; 2 cups broccoli

4:00 MEAL 4: 3 egg whites; 1/2 cup brown rice

5:30 MEAL 5: Meal Replacement Shake + Glutamine

7:30 MEAL 6: 5 oz grilled Salmon; 10 asparagus spears; 1 cup yams; 1 medium zucchini

+1/2 gallon pure water +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

TOTAL:
1758 Calories
148g (35%) Protein
226g (47%) Carbs
26g (16%) Fat
26 Fiber!!!

ADD: 3,000mg fish oil capsules

Exercise:
4:45pm-:35 Minute Back/Bi Workout
6:00pm-:40 Minutes Cardio Kickboxing

Cals Burned: 408 (according to Fitday)

[Ms. Lucy]

133 today--and it's only Tuesday!!I must admit, I'm feeling pretty darn good!

Yesturday I had a wonderful new workout and aslo found out that the puppy's surgery went great and she'll be coming home Wednesday!

I did, however, miss by kickboxing class, since I was calling everyone, but I did jump on the elliptical for 30 minutes. Also, my throat is still really sore (otherwise, feeling fine) so I'm going to try and go there tonight!

This afternoon, I also get to see the dentist about the teeth whitening and am pretty excited. I just had them cleaned, so it should be nice! I also have vacation all next week and plan to get my hair done so I can come back with nice pearly whites and a new haircut (and highlights) I'm very excited!

Best yet, my best friend is flying up and will be here a week. She's also preggers, so it should be fun to see how she's doing and go look at baby stuff! I haven't seen her in ages, so we're overdue on meeting!

Other than that, things are going great. Last week was very emotional and I think had a lot to do with my lack of progress. I feel like now that the stress is subsiding, the weight is falling off! My hubby even gave me an hourlong massage last night because he said he loved me! How sweet!

So that's it--I brought all my food to work, since I can't go home, and I must say the foods are fantastic today!! Can't wait to post them later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Definetly coming down with something. My head feels crappy but my body seems ok. If I'm yup to it, I really want to try to do my chest/Tri workout today, since tomorrow is just yoga. I remeber hearing that if the sickness isn't below the throat, you should be ok. I also have an appetite and am eating plenty! Speaking of eating, here's my foods for the day!!!!

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1/2 cup dry oatmeal

10:00 MEAL 2: 4 oz Chicken; 1/2 cup brown rice

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 10 asparagus spears; zucchini; 1 cup yams

4:00 MEAL 4: 4 oz Chicken; 1/2 cup brown rice

5:30 MEAL 5: Meal Replacement Shake + Glutamine (if I workout)

7:30 MEAL 6: Turkey Patty; 1/2 cup brown rice; 1 cup broccoli/cauliflower; corn on the cob

+1/2 gallon pure water +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

TOTAL:
1850Calories
176g (40%) Protein
189g (38%) Carbs
39g (20%) Fat
22 Fiber!!!

ADD: 3,000mg fish oil capsules

Exercise:
4:45pm-:35 Minute Chest/Tri Workout
6:00pm-:30 Minutes Elliptical (if feeling ok

Cals Burned: 324 (according to Fitday)

[Ms. Lucy]

I've decided it would probably be best to skip today's workout. My glands are swollen and I just read that it's best to let yourself recoup. Also, I'm slightly dizzy when I get up, so I don't imagine that's the best thing! I'm drinking gallons of water, taking vitamins and eating well. However, Cals will be lower than posted because I'm skipping the post workout shake (still taking glutamine). Cals should still be over 1600 though! If I get really antsy, I may take a walk, but it depends on how I'm feeling!

Hopefully tomorrow will be a better health day!

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I'm sick. Really sick. No work today and I slept in until noon. Weight says 131 thisd morning which probably means I'm very dehydrated. That stinks too, as I was going to get so excited to see 132--and now it's a bad thing. Go figure!

I had my eggs when I woke up at noon and I'm drinking lots of fluids. however, my appetite is crappy and I'm worried about losing muscle right now. I'm guessing I need to rest for the rest of the week--which is also a bummer.

Anyways, I may check in later, but I probably won't track my meals. I'm pretty dizzy and can't stare at the computer too long!

Hopefully I can make it to work tomorrow. I feel guilty since I'm on vacation tomorrow! Oh well, at least I can't give it to others!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Still sick. At work, but still sick. I must admit my diet was crazy yesturda, and probably will be today, but I've just lost my appetite completely, but I'm still trying to at least eat! I'm really hoping I'll feel better by next week so I can start up my routine again! I was getting so excited--go figure. Scale also says 132--of course now I'm worried that my muscle is suffering. I'm sure 2 days won't do too much, but it's still depressing.

Today I'm trying to get my fluids, eat regularly, and somewhat healthy. We're having a bbq at work, so it'll probably be half a hamburger for lunch.

On a good note, my puppy comes home tonight. It's been a week now, so we're really excited to see her again. Too bad she has to stay in her crate for 3 weeks! :(

I'll post my meals later!

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

:( Arggg, Hope you feel better soon - Rest up, drink lots of fluids and take a break from worrying about your diet - It is better to focus on getting better!

Hope things go well with your puppy coming home and give her a hug for me!! :D

[halosls518]

Hi ms. lucy ... I just finished reading all your journal entries tonight. I just have to tell you that I think you are really doing SO AWESOME! I mean, following all the ups and downs with your weight and your frustration over how slow it's moving - you should really step back and feel so proud of yourself ... it may be slow but it's moving DOWN which is so great! And what really amazes me is that regardless of what the scale says, you have kept such a perfectly clean diet. I know you've had some trickier days, but those are also good to read ... nice to know someone else out there has those temporary setbacks as well. But I mean, wow - it's extremely motivating to read everything you've posted. It's truly a testiment to how important it is to eat clean! I am just completely impressed with your discipline. I appreciate your journal so much - it's really so great to follow along with you and be able to relate to so much of what you have been doing and continue to do. Keep up the great work - YOU ARE ROCKING!! :)

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Halosls518--What a read-lol! I must admit, it's helped me as well, reading back at the ups and downs to see that slowly but surely I'm making progress! I only wish I was better at testing my bf--because evenm though the scale has only changed a bit, my before/after pics each month are changing significantly (too afraid to show them yet, though--but eventually). It's also nice to know that it helps someone other than myself--since it seems silly sometimes ratting and raving about my moods, however beneficial it seems to me! As with the diet, I'd say I'm about 80% good. My weekdays are usually pretty great, but i ackfire on the weekends, though not terrible, usually just a wendy's small chili and one (ok, 2) of my hubby's 5 piece nuggets. Very rarely we splurge on pizza and the like, but occassionally I think you just have to or you'll cave completely--or, as it is for me, shows me that I'm not eating enough!

Unfortuately I'm still pretty sick. My body aches and I'm all congested. I still need to rest, however, my appetite is returning and I'm trying to get back on track. My friend comes in SUnday and I'm off next week, so it'll be interesting to see how well I do with my diet--I'm planning on doing well though! We'll see!

On a great note (Emma!) we brought back our little girl yesturday. Poor thing as a 12 inch incision--no joke. And she's half shaved and must wear a t-shirt (she looks funny)!However, she doesn't seem to be in any pain and she's as boisterous and active (though not supposed to be active for 3 weeks!!!) and ready to run. She'll need 3 weeks of crate rest and then we can start to walk her and eventually talk her swimming again. It's our goal to get her out on the jetski (sp?) this summer--we think she'd love it!

I'll try to post my diet again today. I only ate a bit of breakfast, but that's because we ate big burritos late last night and I was still full--plus the metabolism has probably slowed since I've skipped so many meals and then ate big ones (strange sickness eating--don't even ask what I ate-lol)

I'm sure it'll just take a day or 2 to get back on track!

Anyways, thanks again for the encouragement--I really appreciate it!! Oh--and I'm going to try and get my bf% tested soon (as I've said 1,000x before) so I can set new goals!

Later

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well, meals are kinda all over the place today, but here goes:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham

10:00 MEAL 2: Turkey Patty; 1 cup broccoli/cauliflower

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 1/2 cup brown rice; 1 cup broccoli

4:00 MEAL 4: Peach; 1 slice ww bread

5:30 MEAL 5: 6 inch Subway Roast CHicken

7:30 MEAL 6: 6 inch Subway Roast CHicken

+1/2 gallon pure water +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

TOTAL:
1347 Calories
129g (37%) Protein
152g (41%) Carbs
31g (22%) Fat
19 Fiber

ADD: 3,000mg fish oil capsules

Exercise:
None--Sick
Cals Burned: 0-Zilch-Nadda (according to Fitday)

I'm hoping to keep my weekend meals fairly clean--now that the appetite's back!

[Ms. Lucy]

Arrgh! I could scream--136??? It's totally my own fault. I was sick and ate crappy (also getting period tomorrow) but I feel like a bloated pig. lol. I know I just need to get back on track as far as eating every few hours, but man, this was a shocker! I'm also nervous cause my friend is here and I need to exercise and eat right this week--especially since i'm on my period.

Too many simple carbs---goes to show you how easy it is to feel cruddy ( I know it's b/c I'm bloated, I didn't consume THAT many calories) and how important it is to eat every few hours. I've been eating like 2x a day!!! At least, however, I feel like this flu is finally gone...Back to work.

(bad, me) lol.

[Ms. Lucy]

Feeling much better today. Weight has stabalized (lol) and back down to 133. I also have my period today, so I may even be better off. I've also been eating well this week and doing my regular workouts. I haven't been tracking every calorie and to be honest, I have really enjoyed not having to do so. We'll see what happens next week.

As far as eveything else goes, I'm doing well. My friend is down for the week and we've just been relaxing since she has the morning sickness thing going on. It's been nice to have an actual break from work to just sit on my porch and talk or read---it's been ages since I've done that!

Anyways, I'm going to go back to it. Just wanted to check back since this last weekend was all over the place from being so sick!!! Hopefully I won't feel like that for a long time!

[Emma-Leigh]

Hey Lucy :) Good to see you are feeling better and your weight is back down to 133 - only 3 pounds till 130!! Woo hoo!! Keep it up!

How is your little girl going? Is she going crazy not being about to run around?
Have fun with your friend!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma!

Tyler is doing well and we're letting her out every now and again to sit with us. She really wants to play and keeps giving us these horrible puppy dog eyes because we're keeping her locked up! She also got really sick from the medicine for a few days and kept going in her crate--lucky I was home to clean it up...but man, it stinks! Anyways, her stiches come out Wednesday and I will start walking her next week!

As for the weight, I'm very excited! I'm hovering around the 133-134 mark and I'm on my period, so hopefully I can break into the 20's here in a few weeks. That will be a huge boost for me! Next week I'm going to try and get up at 6, do my weight workout and then do kickboxing again Mon, Wed and Fri and elliptical on Tues and Thurs. I think my body is ready for a new kick! Lastly, I may settle down with the rigorous cal counting. I know when and what to eat and feel at this point that I can listen to my body and know. We'll see how it goes anyways--even if it's just a break, it should be good. Of course I'll still keep track of my meals here!

Anyways, that's about it! Vacation was short and ok. My friend did come down, but is pregnant and sick, so I didn't really get to see her much, at least while she was feeling well. She also leaves today. But it was still nice to have a break from work. And we have a long weekend for the holiday, so I'm looking forward to spending time with my husband.

That's it--I'll check back later!

lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma!

Tyler is doing well and we're letting her out every now and again to sit with us. She really wants to play and keeps giving us these horrible puppy dog eyes because we're keeping her locked up! She also got really sick from the medicine for a few days and kept going in her crate--lucky I was home to clean it up...but man, it stinks! Anyways, her stiches come out Wednesday and I will start walking her next week!

As for the weight, I'm very excited! I'm hovering around the 133-134 mark and I'm on my period, so hopefully I can break into the 20's here in a few weeks. That will be a huge boost for me! Next week I'm going to try and get up at 6, do my weight workout and then do kickboxing again Mon, Wed and Fri and elliptical on Tues and Thurs. I think my body is ready for a new kick! Lastly, I may settle down with the rigorous cal counting. I know when and what to eat and feel at this point that I can listen to my body and know. We'll see how it goes anyways--even if it's just a break, it should be good. Of course I'll still keep track of my meals here!

Anyways, that's about it! Vacation was short and ok. My friend did come down, but is pregnant and sick, so I didn't really get to see her much, at least while she was feeling well. She also leaves today. But it was still nice to have a break from work. And we have a long weekend for the holiday, so I'm looking forward to spending time with my husband.

That's it--I'll check back later!

lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I'm back! Vacation was ok, eating and training were fine and now I'm back to my usual schedule. I've also gone back to my regular 4 day split and will be doing kickboxing 3x a week along with walking the dog a few times a week for 30 mins or so as she's getting better.

My diet is fine, though I'm going to stray from calorie counting for awhile. I pretty much know what I'm eating and feel that as long as I eat until satisfied, 5-6 times a day, I should be fine. However, I'll also be looking at how my progress goes and may decide to go back to it if I'm having problems.

Right now my weight is hovering around the 133 mark. I really want to shoot for getting that down into the 120's. My origional goal was to get to 130 by 7-1-04, but with the flu, and then some crappy eating I'm back to where I was pre-flu. I'm hoping the extra hard workouts along with the kickboxing will help spice things up. I've also decided that I'm going to switch things up in the gym every week. I think my body responds to constant change, and I tend to stick too much to routine, so I'll try new exercises each week and see how that goes.

I also just finished my cycle and and really hoping that will help. I've been really boated these past few days, which may also have to do with this new pill. I should see within the next 2 days if it was a factor in the weight.

Overall, I'm just doing ok. I'm getting slightly discouraged at times, thinking of how long it's been and how little I've lost, however, I know I've lost more body fat (more important) but just haven't been good at having it checked monthly. I think that getting into the 120's for me will be a huge milestone. I also know that the times I've slipped with my diet have really cost me. For instance, if we go out and have a few drinks, it takes me 3 days to a week just to get back to where I was before. I also know that at times I get depressed and drink a few beers just to stop being so crtical of myself. There's also been a lot of stress because of my dog. So while I'm not trying to make excuses, I am owning up to the fact that I haven't lost as much weight as I could. However, if I dwell on that too much, I again feel bad and don't get anywhere. So now, my goal is to just get into the 120's to up my confidence some. If by August 7th I haven't gotten there, I'm going to see a nutritionist.

I'll post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Feeling a bit better. Here's the meals for the day:


7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 cup ww flakes

10:00 MEAL 2: Banana

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 1 cup zucchini with olive oil/garlic dressing; 1 cup ww flakes

4:00 MEAL 4: Apple; 1/2 sandwich with turkey/mustard and ww bread

5:30 MEAL 5: Meal Replacement Shake

7:30 MEAL 6: 4 oz broiled Tuna; 1 cup broccoli/cauliflower; 1 cup steamed Kale and almonds; 1/2 cup yams

+1/2 gallon pure water +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:

4:45-25 Minutes Chest/Tri Workout
6:00-1 hr Cardio Kickboxing

[Ms. Lucy]

Sometimes I wish I could crawl into a small little hole-lol! Actually I'm doing ok, just feel a bit lousy with this weight thing. I'm still at the same place teetering between 133-134.5. I went to kickboxing last night and although I worked up an awesome sweat, I realized that the kicking (fast anyways) is really aggrivating my knees. I've signed up for a year, so I'll have to find some sort of solution.

Today is my day off from weights. I'll probably walk the dog for 20 minutes and then jump on the elliptical for a half hour or so.

I'm eating well but still feeling bloated and blah overal--perhaps the remenants of the flu or my period or even this new pill. I'm hoping that I'm just holding on to some extra pounds, but who knows. Again, I'm hoping that I can tell here in the next few days of stict eating.

ANyways, I hate to just complain, but it's one of those days. I just feel overwhelmed by a few issues and need something positive to start moving forward. Oh well--I'll write my meals down later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Pretty good meals today:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 cup ww flakes

10:00 MEAL 2: Banana; 3.5 oz tuna

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 1 cup zucchini; 1 cup yams; 1/2 cup mushrooms/onions sauteed with oilve oil

4:00 MEAL 4: Apple; 1/2 sandwich with ham/mustard and ww bread

5:30 MEAL 5: Meal Replacement Shake

7:30 MEAL 6: 4 oz broiled Salmon; 1 cup broccoli/cauliflower; 10 asparagus Spears; 1/2 cup yams

+1/2 gallon pure water +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:

12:00-15 Minutes Shoulder Workout (only had time for 3 exercises)
4:45-20 minute walk with dog
5:15-30 minutes elliptical

[Ms. Lucy]

I just want to cry. That's all. I feel like I'm getting nowwhere. Weight is at 135. Seems like I lose weight when I eat **** and when I eat right I gain or maintain. I can't afford a trainer or nutritionist, though I'm still going to call them today.

I'm certainly not giving up or anything, but I'm extremely frustrated. People lose weight eating crap, but I eat great 80% of the time, usually 90% and get nowhere. It's been since JANUARY!!! I feel like my friend is going to have her baby and lose the weight before I lose another bloody pound. I'm honestly wondering if there's something wrong with me. Also, as much as I sometimes think about trying to cut carbs or "rotate" them, I have an incredibly difficult time doing so, as carbs, to me, are the most essential thing you can put in your body. I don't think excess protein is all that healthy either. But who knows, I just don't want to be going backwards at this stage, because I think that may do me in. ANyways, I'm calling nutritionists today. I sure as hell can't afford one, but I'm pretty low here today. I just want to follow someone's directions.

[Ms. Lucy]

Enough is enough. I've scheduled an appointment with a nutritionist for next Thursday, 1 week from today. The girl I spoke to said she recommends eating clean, healthy foods and is NOT an advocate of fad diets, such as adkins, which a few I called were. So I'm going to keep track of my meals for the next week to bring her and take more pics. I'm doing my cal counts again in fitday, but will not be putting them into here for now, as it takes too much time. I will, however, be tracking my foods. Also, this nutritionist is supposed to call me before my appointment so hopefully I can ask her a few questions and make sure she's the right person for me. I'm just in such a slump, I really feel like I need some one-on-one to help me take my next step. Anyways, here's my foods for today:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 cup ww flakes

10:00 MEAL 2: Apple; 1 tablespoon Peanut Butter

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 1 cup steamed broccoli/cauliflower; 1 cup yams

4:00 MEAL 4: 7 walnut halves; 1/2 sandwich with turkey/mustard and ww bread

5:30 MEAL 5: Meal Replacement Shake

7:30 MEAL 6: 4 oz Broiled Salmon; 1 cup broccoli/cauliflower; 10 asparagus Spears

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:
5:15-30 minutes elliptical
5:30-25 minutes walk/jog with dog

Ave Cals-1500

[Ms. Lucy]

SO they tell you not to weigh yourself daily, I understand that now, lol. Back to 133. There definetly must be a thousand things that can make your weight fluctuate so much on a daily basis. I still like to because it reminds me of where I'm at, and even if I get upset it just makes me stick to my plan better. WHne I used to go 4 weeks without weighing myself I gave myself too many "allowances" thinking I could make it up the following week. I'm still excited to see the nutritionist though, to go over my diet. I also have pretty bad fatigue, so hopefully we can address that as well.

Yesturday my legs were still killing me from my kickboxing and jogging, so I decided to postpone leg training for today. I have a 4 day split during the week so it allows for 1 day off. Instead I went of the elliptical for 1/2 hour and then walked the dog (no jogging--legs hurt) for about 20 minutes. I usually keep cardio to 1/2 hour, but I had lots of energy, and the dog did as well. She also had her stitches out and was given the go ahead to start walking and playing. They also didn't detect a murmur, so we're pretty estatic about that.

On another positive note, I 'm picking up my teeth bleaching trays today, so I should have a great smile in 2 weeks or so, unless my teeth get too sensitive. I think I'm also going to treat myself to some hair highlights in August. I really wanted to wait until I was in the 120's but hopefully with the help of this nutritionist I will be!

SO that's it. I should mention, however, that I hate when I get so down on myself about my weight. Last night my husband asked me if that was all I thought about, and to be honest, over the past few months, it has been. I'm not sure how, but I really need to start addressing that soon. I don't want to be that consumed by a number, or that worried about my image and lately I've been reacting to so many things it can't be healthy. For instance, I was at work and the pres came down to ask someone about a meeting (male) and the pres asked if she was good looking. The other guy was just like, yeah, shy but she was pretty hot!!! I mean, I'm sitting right there! Also, you watch the news about the teacher who supposedly had sex with her 14 year old student and she's described as the bombshell teacher or the the gorgeous women who... It just upsets me. But then I wonder, is that a women's right thing that upsets me or the fact that I'm not longer described that way. I wish I could say it's the former, but I'm sad to admit it's not. THAT depresses me. Because eventually everyone gets older and you can't cling onto what you were or what you want to be. And with all this plastic surgery crap, I'd be surprised if anyone over 30 is happy with themselves. it's really just depressing. I hate being caught up in it, yet you're already to drawn into here, it's impossibly to simply ignore. ANyways, I won't write a novel about it, but I think it's something I really need to address.

Ok for now. I'll post my meals later!

Lucy

[nsouth]

I hear you Lucy. I used to get accused of being obsessive all the time. I actually had friends complain to me that my gym time was interfering in our friendship. But we get pulled in so many different directions - between relationships, family, friends, gym, job and other responsibilities. I guess I personally try not to let it get to me what other people think about how much time I spend in the gym or whether or not they agreee with MY priorities.

I've taken about a month off from any serious training because my boyfriend and I are renovating our house. The results have been disastrous (with the lack of training not the renovation :) )
I don't feel like the cute buff chick I used to be and regardless of whether or not it's superficial it truly truly bothers me! But isn't that to be expected? You're absolutely right that society is obsessed with hot women and damn it I want my piece of the pie! I spent most of my life being obese and having been both 210 and 135 I finally have just accepted that I appreciate the attention that comes from being good-looking and in shape.

What I'm trying to say is don't beat yourself up about your so-called "obsession." As far as I'm concerned it's a natural response to the society we live in.

BTW - your journal is extremely inspiring to read. Keep it up!

[Ms. Lucy]

I appreciate the comment and agree as well. While it's not ok to be obsessive to the point that I refuse to do anything else, I also miss being told how great of shape I'm in or that I'm small and cute! ANd I wouldn't mind being told that I'm in exceptional health well into old age. Wrinkles may form but I may prevent those droupy triceps (or die trying)!

But as you said it can be frustrating with friends and family worry about the obsession. My hubby is pretty good about it though and I know he LOVED my body when I was skinnier. Don't get me wrong, he loves me to death now, but I also know I feel sexier when I'm smaller and that rubs off on him!

ANywho, thanks again, and good luck with the renovation!

[Ms. Lucy]

Great Day:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 cup ww flakes

10:00 MEAL 2: Apple; 1 tablespoon Peanut Butter

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 1 cup steamed broccoli/cauliflower; 1/2cup yams; 10 asparagus spears

4:00 MEAL 4: Banana; 1/2 sandwich with turkey/mustard and ww bread

5:30 MEAL 5: Meal Replacement Shake; Cytovol

7:30 MEAL 6: 6 inch roast chicken sandwhich from Subway (it's Friday)
+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:

4:45-25 Leg Workout including calves
5:15-20 minutes elliptical

[Ms. Lucy]

Well my diet went very well over the weekend. I am also meeting with the nutritionist this Thursday and am ver excited.. Hopefully they can outline a plan for me that I can stick to and point my finger at if I'm not making progress. Right now I'm sticking around 133--and so hoping to get into the 120's soon.

I was a bit sick last night and will just take it easy today and use this as my 1 day off for the week. I don't want anything slowing me down!

Aside from that--I'm doing ok. I won't be posting my meals today, but am keeping track for the nutritionist.

[jpeg]

Good luck with the nutritionist! I went to one in January and she helped quite a bit. It's always nice getting new ideas and mine gave me quite a few recipes which was awesome because I got to try new foods. If you give them an idea of what you like and how you cook they can help you out a LOT! :)

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks JPEG--I'm glad you had a positive experience. Unfortuanetly, mine had to cancel on me this week, so I have to wait until Wednesday, which is WAY too long!! lol. I'm just slightly concerned though, because she doesn't measure body fat? Oh well, at this point I'm just hoping she can give me a good estimate of how many cals I should be consuming. Right now I'm still going inbetween 133-134, so hopefully I can break that soon. I'm going to try and do more varied cardio, just to spice things up.

ANyways, I'll just keep doing what I've been doing until I meet with her. I'm feeling better, haven't been as fatigued and am making good progress with my weightlifting--I just need to get my bloody bf% down!

Oh well. I'll post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Pretty good day, except I brought turkey in a bag for lunch and forgot to refrigerate it, so I had to throw it out. Luckily I had some walnuts around and my bread so I ate that. ANyways, here's how we looked:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 cup grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: Apple; 1 tablespoon Peanut Butter

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 2 cups organic mixed salad with 1 tablsp low fat greek dressing; 1/2 cup grape nuts

4:00 MEAL 4:1 slice ww bread; 7 walnut halves

5:30 MEAL 5: 1/2 turkey sandwhich on whole wheat bread with mustard

7:30 MEAL 6: Turkey Breast; green beans and carrots drizzled with olive oil and lemon with 1 teasp cruched almonds; 1 cup brown rice with 1/2 tablsp blue bonnet

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:


5:15-20 minutes elliptical
6:00-25 minutes walk dog

I have an all day meeting tomorrow, so food will be whatever is provided (should be somewhat healthy). I'll have to post them on Thursday!

[jpeg]

Hi Ms. Lucy,

Mine didn't do body fat testing either or tell me how many calories to consume. She basically took my food diary and taught me nutritious things to eat. I was surprised with her not being concerned about counting calories but she said she didn't believe in diets. Her philosophy was eat healthy and nutritious and everything else will kind of fall into place. I dunno, I haven't been following her advice 100% but it did helps to get some new perspective. I'm interested to hear what yours says tomorrow!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Jpeg, but I have to wait until next wednesday, she rescheduled!

Honestly, I've taken a small break from crazy cal counting and have been ok. I'm still stuck on 133, but will try to break that by varying my cardio these next few weeks. My friends wedding was also postponed until Spetember 18th, which strange enough makes me feel better, because hopefully I can lose some more weight before squeezing into a dress!!!

Otherwise things are ood. Eating weel and exercising. I missed my weight yesturday from running late at work and will do a long session tonight (by long I mean 45 mins!). I'm also going to try my cardio kickboxing class because they use the bag on Wednesdays!

That's all for now. Post my meals soon!

[Ms. Lucy]

Here's how today looks!


7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 slice ww bread

10:00 MEAL 2: Apple; 1 rye bagel (food provided)

1:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 2 cups organic mixed salad with 1 tablsp low fat greek dressing and 1 oz low fat feta; 1 cup long grain brown rice

4:00 MEAL 4:1 serving grape nuts; 3.5 oz tuna

5:30 MEAL 5: Meal Replacement Shake + Glutamine

7:30 MEAL 6: 6 inch subway sandwhich on ww bread

8:30 MEAL 7: Carrot Sticks/Celery Sticks (late night bar meeting)

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:


4:45-45 minute Back/Chest/Bi Workout
6:00-1 hr cardio kickboxing


We have a meeting tonight at a bar. I'm not going to drink (just water) and will snack on fresh veggies if they order food. Or so I'm planning that is-lol!

Let you know tomorrow!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well 132.5 today!! I may just be getting out of my slump! I was also great last night and didn't drink or eat anything at the pub--just a glass of water! I also went to my kickboxing class and had a nice workout.

The only thing getting me down today is the fact that I've been whitening my teeth and they're super sensitive today--can barely eat. I just need to put them in for a shorter period of time, but they seriously hurt!!

Other than that I'm great. Eating good, feeling good and hopefully dropping some more weight!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Not too bad today, though I did have a hamburger at an office lunch. I was running late today and did not have time to bring something. I also ment to eat just half but I was pretty darn hungry. But my diet has been 100% clean this week, so I'm sure an extra 200 cals will be ok. Anyways, here's how it looks:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 slice ww bread

10:00 MEAL 2: 1 slice ww bread; 3.5 oz tuna

1:30 MEAL 3: Small hamburger (290 cals-23g fat) with white (crappy) bun

4:00 MEAL 4:1 cup brown rice;

7:30 MEAL 6: (Middle Eastern Restaurant) Grilled Chicken with 2 cups organic salad mix, cucumbers and honey/mustard dressing; 1 glass red wine


+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:


Took Day OFF ( I was feeling extremely tired again)

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I was exhausted yesturday (sore muscles and a sore mouth-lol). I decided to take the day off and guess what? 131.5 this morning! It just goes to show you that you have to trust your body sometimes. I'm pretty good at determining if I'm just being lazy or if I'm getting burnt out and sometimes you just need a break. I also felt guilty about the hamburger yesturday, bt I think having a day where your fat intake is kinda higher, isn't the worst thing in the world. My body probably loved the extra few hundred calories.

I'm also doing well not counting each and every calorie. I'm eating my small meals 2-3 hours and eating a small amount of protein and carbs. I'm also trying to fit in at least 3-4 servings of veggies and 1-2 servings of fruit a day. Hopefully I can also include more veggies in the future. But overall I'm estatic! I haven't seen this number on the scale in over a year (ecxcept when I was really sick a few weeks ago!). I'm also looking forward to hearing what the nutritionist has to say about my food plan.

My workouts are going well, too. I just have to remember not to overdo it. I think it's easy for me to go at it 200% somedays, so when I am that exhausted I need to take a day off. I think it's also helped that I've been switching up my routine most workouts. I'm trying new exercises, doing 3 sets one week, then 4 the next. I'm also changing up the weights. But each time it's challenging and I can definetly feel it the next 2 days!

Anyways, that's it for now! 131.5--can you believe it--I'm going to have to post a general one when I get into the 120's! It's taken me Soooo long to figure out what works for me, but it's been so worth it! Just 1.5 pounds to go and I'm halfway there! I do need to work on figuring out my bf% thouhg. But I am taking pics, so hopefully some of the ladies here can make some educated guesses for me!

Great day!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

I'm feeling good, still, though I had one crazy hour where I was toally fatigued. I hope that doesn't happen this afternoon as I'm looking forward to training legs and taking my dog for a walk! Anywho, here's my foods--much better on the veggies today!

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 serving grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: Red Apple; 3.5 oz tuna

1:30 MEAL 3: Turkey Patty; 1 cup brown rice; 2 cups broccoli/cauliflower

4:00 MEAL 4:1 cup brown rice; 1 cup broccoli/cauliflower; 7 walnut halves

6:00 MEAL 5: 1 slice ww bread; 1 tablsp peanut butter; 1 serving cytovol

7:30 MEAL 6: 1 cup noodles with half cup of meat sauce; pice of chocolate (hey, it's Friday-lol)

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:

4:45:-30 Minutes Leg Workout
5:14:-15 Minutes Elliptical
5:30:-25 Minutes Walk Dog

Feeling pretty good! 120's here I come!

[Emma-Leigh]

Originally posted by Ms. Lucy
131.5 this morning!

:D

**Happy dance**

Keep it up girly - You are doing soo well!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma!

I'm anticipating that it will go up a bit, but it's awesome to finally see that number!!! I'm hoping that I'll get into the 120's pretty soon!


This weekend has been going good! I've been eating clean and catching up on some sleep--pretty fatigues though (going to see a doctor about that). I decided to rest today and will do about an hours worth of cardio tomorrow--probably some walk/jogging and the elliptical.

That's about it!

[Ms. Lucy]

Balh. I'm feeling VERY blah! My hubby and I both had a horrible craving for ice cream last night and neither of us could convince the other to just say no. We did however split a small ice cream (ok, fudge sauce, too) and now I'm paying for it by feeling extremely bloated and blah!

That's one thing I beed to ask my nutritionist about this week. I eat clean for about 5-6 days and am fine with it. Yet then I get CRAZY cravings for bad foods. i'm not sure if I'm not eating enough or if my body is lacking something. For instance, i don't eat dairy and probably don't get enough calcium--so is the ice cream craving (don't usually even like the stuff) from that?

It will be interesting to talk to her. Aside from that I'm ok. This weekend, aside from my little indulgence wasn't too bad. I didn't weigh myself today because I felt so yucky (although I doubt it had a huge imapct) but will do so tomorrow.

I'm expecting my weight to fluctuate again, even though I got to 131.5, before it breaks that number. That's what's happened in the past so I'm preparing myself for it! But I must admit, it's nice to have finally broke free of 135!! Sometimes I need to remind myself that although it's taken me awhile, I'm making slow but steady progress. Also, my pictures look good and I can definetly see my body firming up! (ok, now I feel guilty about the ice cream-lol).But seriously, I am starting to see the finish line!

OH YEAH!!!!! Forgot to share!!!!!---My hubby and I went out on Saturday night and I was able to fit into a pair of jeans I haven't been able to put on in over 1 year. In fact, I haven't worn jeans in over a year because I couldn't get myself to buy a fat pair!!! But I wore these-lol!!!!!!And I looked good! Mind you I was happy to scrape myself oout of them at the end of the evening, but it felt good.

Of course, I used to be able to put those jeans on and off without even unzipping them, and I could barely get the zipper up now--but nonetheless, I was able to!

I can't believe aI forgot to mention that--it was such a huge thing for me!

Anyways, that's it! Post later!

[Ms. Lucy]

I'm still feeling a bit icky from last night, but I'm trying to eat better! Here's how I look for today!

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham

10:00 MEAL 2: Banana; 3.5 oz tuna

1:30 MEAL 3: Turkey Patty; 2 cups broccoli; 1 serving grape nuts

4:00 MEAL 4:1/2 pint raspberries; 7 walnut halves

6:00 MEAL 5: 1 slice ww bread; 1 tablsp peanut butter; 2 cups cauliflower

7:30 MEAL 6: 1/2 inch Raost Chicken Subway Sub (Have to runarounf tonight)

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:

4:45:-30 Minutes Elliptical
5:14:-30 Minutes Walk Dog

I didn't sleep well last night, so I'm going to push my weight to tomorrow. I'm also going to start incorporating some drop sets, so I'll need all the energy I can get!

I'm hoping I didn't do too much damage last night, I'm feeling sooo full!

You'd think I'd learn the first or 50th time!

[Ms. Lucy]

134 today!!! I could scream sometimes-lol. IN all honesty, I figured that would happen. My weight goes down to an all time low and then goes back up before finally dropping back down. I see the nutritionist tomorrow, so hopefully she'll have some insight. I also know I need to buckle down better and be more strict with my diet (mainly weekends) but I also know I have a problem with doubting myself, and sometimes give up, which is definetly not the right attitude to have. Besides, I was well over 142 at one point (didn't weigh myself after 142-too embarrassed). SO concidering that (and my bf/measurements have def changed, I think I'm able to show that while it takes time for some people, results eventually come. hat being said, I'm still going nuts to see 120-something, so hopefully this nutritionist is worth the money-lol. I'm sure she is.

On another note, I'm off to see the doctor on Wednesday as well. I've gotten some crazy fatigue in the last month or so that are definetly affecting my workouts. Once again, yesturday I went to just shut my eyes for 15 minutes before my workoutas and totally crashed. Hopefully it's something as simple as low iron, but who knows. I just know that I only drink caffeine (green tea) in the mornings, and have sleepy tea at night. I also get 8 hours of sleep and don't eat crap. There's no reason why I should be as tired as I am!

So again, I'm hoping to clear some things up tomorrow!

Today will be uneventful. I have an office lunch, so I brought something and will ask them to order a salad, since they're getting pizza. I hate not having a real lunch break, but I suppose it's not all that bad--I do love my job!

This afternoon I will make up yesturday's workout and will try some drop sets. I may also go to my kickboxing class depending on how tired I am!

That's it for now!

Hope everyone has a great day!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 serving Grape Nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: Apple; 1 tablsp Peanut Butter

1:30 MEAL 3: 3 Small slices donatos thin crust pizza (at work lunch) took off cheese and only ate veggies)

4:00 MEAL 4: 1/2 Sandwich on ww bread with teasp mustard and lean ham

6:00 MEAL 5: Meal Replacement Shake

7:30 MEAL 6: Turkey Patty; 2 cups broccoli/cauliflower; 1 cup brown rice

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:

4:45:-30 Minutes Back/Bi
5:14:-30 Minutes Elliptical

I see the nutritionist tomorrow!!!

[Emma-Leigh]

Keep your eyes away from the scales everyday Miss!!! :D They only serve to confuse you! Your general downward trend has been great, so don't let a couple of 'high days' (esp after 'treat foods') get to you.

Good luck with your appointments - I hope the doctor and nutritionist shed some light on your current troubles! :)

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma, and I know. But it's such motivation when it's going down-lol!

ANyways, I am very excited to speak with the nutritionist and am trying to prepare myself to listen to what she has to say. SOmetimes I get so caught up with something I heard or read that I can't believe or give credit to another theory. That's a huge problem for me. I've probably second-guessed myself from losing more weight than I could have. So as long as the basic nutrition priciples are there (basically she's not a no-carb chick) I'll be pretty darn happy.

I am also looking forward to seeing the doctor about my fatigue. I feel like I'm also missing out on better workouts because I don't have any energy. And I hate the fact that it's so hard for me to get out of bed in the mornings!

Anyways, should be a good day!

I'll check back tomorrow and let you know.

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I went to see the doctor and nutritionist.

The doctor was great--listened to everything I had to say! He thinks I may have hypothyroidism or anemia, due to the symptoms I've been having and extreme fatigue. If we rule those out from the blood tests, I'll be seeing a sleep specialist in case I'm having sleep problems. Also, he said the thyroid problem could easily be the reason why I'm having probs losing weight (but I also know the extreme fatigue, from whatever, makes it hard to do good, continuous workouts). ALso, I'm having a cat scan to rule out ms as well, since I've been experiencing some tingling in my extremities and vison/memory problems---but again, that could also be from the above.

As for the nutritionist--waste of money. I was so optomistic, but she haden't heard or looked into body fat percentage and asked me to track my foods another 2 weeks, although I already brought her my past 2 weeks worth of foods (ok, I skipped 1 day!). She made no suggestions. I asked how many cals I should eat and she asked what I thought. I asked about my ratio's and she didn't really have a comment. it was bascically do what you've been doing until we meet in another 2 weeks. I asked what we would do in the time and she said we'd review my last 2 weeks diet???? How about a suggestion somewhere. Then she took my weight and said she hoped it would be down a bit in 2 weeks. Come on? I'll have my period then, plus, we all know the scale isn't as important as measurements and bf%!!!!

I was just very dissapointed. I think she was just trying to make some more money with another appointment. I thought they were supposed to make suggestions and give you a meal plan?? I'm just pissed I wasted the money and have gotten nowhere.

Now I'm trying to see if I can find a sports nutritionists/trainer qualified in nutrition who could help me out. I may try contacting the colleges or something.

ANyways, I'll actually wait on that til I hear about my blood results b/c that could have a lot to do with it. But that's just frustrating to me.

Oh well. Oh, and my weight is now back at 134! Fun, fun. But I haven't exercise much this week as I've been sleeping.

ANyways, I'll post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 slice ww bread; 4 oz lean ham (running late)

10:00 MEAL 2: Banana; 3.5 oz tuna

1:30 MEAL 3: 1.5 cups brown rice with 4 oz ckicken; 1 medium zucchini fried in 1/1 tablsp olive oil; 1 cup broccoli/cauliflower

4:00 MEAL 4: Apple; 3.5 oz tuna

6:00 MEAL 5: 1 cup brown rice with 3 oz chicken; 1 cup broccoli/cauliflower

7:30 MEAL 6: 6 inch chicken sand

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.



EXERCISE:

None today--cooking for a party tomorrow! (will exercise in the morning though)

[Ms. Lucy]

Well the weekend went well. We had a party at the house and I managed to eat well. I'm also going to vamp up the cardio this week. I've always had a hard time jogging, but only because I start out full go and get out of breathe too quick. SO I found a 12 week gradual walk/jog plan that I'm going to try and implement this week. It starts off at 30 minutes including warm up and by week 12 you're supposed to be able to jog for 40 minutes (we'll see). I'm going to try this at least 3x this week and also do my kickboxing a few times a week. I'll keep my 4 day split for nw and just change up the exercises. hopefully the fatigue doesn't wipe me out. ALso, I tried drop sets last week and didn't care for them--I'd rather have someone else there, instead of dpoing them myself. SOme exercises would be ok, but not squats and bench presses.

I also get my period this week, so that should also be interesting. Also, I get my test results back for the thyroid and anemia.

Aside from that I'm doing ok. I haven't weighed myself since I am getting my period, but will do so later in the week. I'm sure I'm at the same place anyways!

I'll post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Here goes for today:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg; 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 slice ww bread

10:00 MEAL 2: 1/2 cup tofu/tempeh salad; 1/2 cup pasta/veggie salad

1:30 MEAL 3: 3.5 oz tuna; 2 cups spinach w/ 1 tablsp greek dressing; 1 serving grape nuts

4:00 MEAL 4: 1 cup chicken salad (with apples/celery/walnuts and light nayonnaise dressing)

6:00 MEAL 5: 1/2 cup tofu/tempeh; 1/2 cup pasta salad

7:30 MEAL 6: 4 oz salmon; 1 large zucchini; 1/2 cup brown rice

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.


Obviously I'm eating left overs. They are all clean and include protein/carbs and healthy fats, along with some veggies. I may start tracking cals again next week depending on how things go!



EXERCISE:

4:45-35 Minutes Back/Bi Workout
5:30-30 Mintutes elliptical/walk/jog

Tired again today--hopefully I'll get my test results soon! I'm also getting my period this week so I'm expecting to be REALLY tired. However I'm making it my goal to get up and jog in the morning, that way I'm not too exhausted in the evening!

I'm still hugging that 133 mark--so I'm on a quest to break through!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Doing ok today. had a great back workout yesturday and did 40 minutes on the elliptical right after since it was raining.

It was really my goal to get up early inthe mornings, but I'm just too tired. I got up early today but had NO energy. It could just be this week, or whatever is going on in my body. I'll just keep my cardio for after weights, although that's not my ideal.

Everything else is going fine. Weight is stable, but I'm getting my period soon, so that's to be expected. Honestly, for where I am in the month I actually feel pretty good.

Anywho, I'll post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Pretty good today--though I had a small sliver of homemade cheesecake from the party at lunch. However, I brought the rest into work, so there won't be anymore to snack on! Rest of the day looks good!

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg; 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 slice ww bread

10:00 MEAL 2: 1 apple; 7 walnut halves

1:30 MEAL 3: Ckicken Salad with 4 oz chicken, half apple, celery, 4 walnuts; sliver of cheesecake (prob 150 cals)

4:00 MEAL 4: 1/2 cup tofu/tempeh; 1/2 cup pasta salad

6:00 MEAL 5: 3.5 oz tuna; 1/2 cup pasta salad

7:30 MEAL 6: Turkey Patty; 1 large zucchini; 2 cups spinach

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

EXERCISE:

4:45-35 Minutes Chest/Tri Workout
5:30-30 Mintutes elliptical/walk/jog

SO far I'm feeling ok. Not too tired. I'm hoping to do both the elliptical tonight as well as walk the dog some.

Also, I've been e-mailing a trainer near me, who sounds promising. I'll have to wait to hear her fees, though. It's going to be hard convincing my hubby to let me use the money for one. Oh well!

Good day, though!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Still doing well. My energy levels are up this week and I was able to do the elliptical for 40 minutes yesturday after a wonderful chest/tri workout! I'm also due for my period here in the next day or to, and the scale is still just at 133, which I think is good considering I'm a bit bloated.

Tonight I'm going to do my cardio kickboxing along with some ab work. Lately, I've really enjoyed doing my cardio, but perhaps that's because for the first time in my life I'm starting to be able to tolerate it for a decent distance or length. If I can, I'd really like to start jogging.

That's about it. I should mention quickly that I'm really happy with my birth control pill. Concidering how painfull my periods used to be, this has really helped. Plus they're shorter and less of a pain in general. Though some women have commented that when you bf gets down, the stuff makes you retain water from the estrogen. My pill has VERY LITTLE estrogen, so I'm hoping that doesn't happen.

Though I'd be happy to have the low bf to at least see--lol!

Anywho, post my meals later!

lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Pretty good day for all the runnning around I have to do!


7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg; 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 serving grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: 1 apple; 7 walnut halves (small slice of zucchini bread at 11)

1:30 MEAL 3: 3.5oz Tuna; 1 cup pasta salad with veggies

4:00 MEAL 4: 1/2 cup tofu/tempeh; 1/2 cup pasta salad

6:00 MEAL 5: 1 slice ww bread and tablsp Peanut Butter

7:30 MEAL 6: 6 inch Roast Chicken Sub from Subway

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

EXERCISE:

4:45-45 Minutes Elliptical including ab work

[Ms. Lucy]

Still 133!! But I can't complain, as it's that time for me, and I usually gain some!

However, I had a wonderful cardio session yesturday 9did I just say that?-lol). I went on the elliptical for 20 minutes and despite getting pretty darn tired, I decided to take my dog for a walk. Well, the walk turned into a walk/jog, basically 4 minutes walking and 1 minute jogging. It actually felt good. i'm no runner, so the fact that I could ven do stage one was pretty cool. I'll do that again today or tomorrow and up it a bit next week!

As for my body, can I say I feel like I'm looking good! It crazy, because I'm about to get my period, but I feel pretty good about myself--which doesn't usually happen! Also, It's funny because it has taken me forever to lose justr a bit of weight, but nonetheless, I've lost weight, instead of gaining it! SUre, a lot of the lack of progress was my own fault, taken too many cheats or not working hard enough, but I also think it takes some peoples bodies awhile to accept what you're trying to get it to do, especially if you've been on a starvation diet.

But honestly, I can't wait to get back down to being fit again, and probably much improved. If anything I think it will show that as long as you are persistent and don't let slips get the better of you, you'll eventually get to where you're going!

It's definetly no 10 pounds in 2 weeks, but I'm pretty sure it will be permanent!

Anywho, that's all for now!

Lucy

[pipgarden]

Ms. Lucy-congratulations! All your hard work on nutrition and exercise are showing results. Don't get discouraged, just keep on keeping on!!

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey thanks! ANd I am!

I honestly get discouraged at times, but all in all I'm making good progress. I can also see a big difference in my pictures even though the scale only says I've lost 10lbs!

However, I've tweaked my program a bit, changed up spme exercises and added a bit more cardio and I'm seeing better results and muscle soreness! I'm really thinking I'll get out of this 133 rut soon!

Also, I'm not always the best on the weekends and have recently addressed that, so I'm preparing meals ahead of time and agreeing with the hubby on our one "somewhat" treat. (chicken salad a restaurant!). We also have our 2year wedding anniversary on the 3rd of August, so I want to go!

So thanks again, the encouragement helps a lot. I can't wait to post some pics. They're probably not that impressive, given the time I've had, but they're what I've been working so hard on!

Thanks again (Geez, i really ramble!)

[Ms. Lucy]

Looking good today, found out how to get more veggies in!

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg; 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 serving grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: 1 apple; 7 walnut halves

1:30 MEAL 3: 3.5oz Tuna; 1 slice ww bread

4:00 MEAL 4: 1o baby carrots; half green pepper, 4 celery sticks with 2 tablsp peanut butter.

6:00 MEAL 5: 1 cup tofu/tempeh; 1 serving grape nuts

7:30 MEAL 6: 1 egg, 2 egg whites, 2 slices lean ham; 2 cups broccoli/cauliflower

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

EXERCISE:

4:45-30 Minutes Leg Exercises
5:30-30 Minutes Elliptical or Walk/Jog

I just got my period, and I've got very low energy. I'm really going to make an effort to get in my leg workout and hopefully will build some energy to at least walk/jog some, however, I'm more interested in just getting through my leg training!

Oh and tests came back, no thyroid or iron problem, so I have no idea why I get so drained. I guess I'll have to try the sleep study!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Stupid period! lol

Actually I'm ok, weight jumped up quick, however, which is to be expected!

I was also pretty exhausted yesturday and almost talked myself out of my leg routine. Luckily I was able to convince myself that I will not get anywhere by skipping workouts and ended up having an awesome one! I then jumped on the elliptical, but only for 20 minutes as my cramps were getting the better of me!

The hubby and I also went out to eat. I had some falaffel and 1 piece of pita bread, ok and a glass of wine!

Later that night I had some chicken and a salad, since I was still hungry!

But nothing was too bad (could have skipped the wine). We were going to go out this weekend and have this, but we'll probably just stay in, which is fine. I'd like to get through a weekend while eating well. I am also going to do my cardio kickboxing first thing in the morning Saturday and then just do some light walking on Sunday. SInce I'm feeling so bloated now, I hate having a day of doing nothing, so light walking will have to do!

Other than that I'm doing well. I've been a bit tired this week, but able to break past it to get my workouts in. My whole body is also kinda sore from this week so far, which is just such a great feeling (especially a sore chest, makes the boobs feel good--and bigger-lol). SO I'm pretty happy.

I'll also try to keep track of my meals this weekend!

That's it for now!

Hope everyone has a great Friday!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Little low on protein today, as I got up late and missed my egg breakfast, but still ok. Definetly got in a lot more veggies!

7:00 MEAL 1: Banana; 1 serving grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: 1 apple; 7 walnut halves

1:30 MEAL 3: 3.5oz Tuna; 1 slice ww bread; 1 cup brocolli

4:00 MEAL 4: 10 baby carrots; half green pepper, 4 celery sticks with 2 tablsp peanut butter.

6:00 MEAL 5: 3.5 oz tuna; 1 serving CytoVol

7:30 MEAL 6: 1 turkey sausage; 10 asparagus spears; 1 cup zucchini/squash; 1/2 cup brown rice


+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

EXERCISE:

4:45-30 Minutes Shoulder/Delt/Calf
5:30-30 Minutes Elliptical or Walk/Jog

Still very bloated today, but hoping to see that scale drop below 133 next week when my period is gone! That or I'm going to shoot myself. (lol)

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

I'm having an awesome day!

I woke up early to have brekkie and fit in all my meals. Then I went to the park with my dog and we walked for 30 minutes and then I was able to job for 10 minutes, rest another 5 and then ran another 5 minutes! It may not sound like much, but I've never been able to run that much before!

I think I could have done evern more if the dog wasn't with me, as she pulls quite a bit!

My meals so far have also been right on. My eggs and grape nuts for breakfast and then tuna, a banana and 10 asparagus spears for my first snack!

I'm also much less bloated then yesturday, which is nice. I absolutely know that I'll be able to break that 133 mark next week!

Anyways, that's it for now, just wanted to check in!

Hopefully I can also post my meals later!

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

Originally posted by Ms. Lucy
I'm having an awesome day!

I woke up early to have brekkie and fit in all my meals. Then I went to the park with my dog and we walked for 30 minutes and then I was able to job for 10 minutes, rest another 5 and then ran another 5 minutes! It may not sound like much, but I've never been able to run that much before!

I think I could have done evern more if the dog wasn't with me, as she pulls quite a bit!

My meals so far have also been right on. My eggs and grape nuts for breakfast and then tuna, a banana and 10 asparagus spears for my first snack!

I'm also much less bloated then yesturday, which is nice. I absolutely know that I'll be able to break that 133 mark next week!

Anyways, that's it for now, just wanted to check in!

Hopefully I can also post my meals later!

Lucy

Good news all round - test results, running, diet, puppy pulling (means she feels great!!) and less bloat!!! Woo hoo!!! **happy dance**...

Fingers crossed for your scales moving as well!

[imperfectly_lou]

Glad to hear you are doing so well Lucy! Keep up the great work!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Girls!

I'm feeling pretty good and starting to see myself skinnier!

And Emma--Tyler is doing exceptionally well. We just bought her a lifejacket to take her kayaking next weekend, and hopefully get her on the jet ski soon!

Still 133 this morning, but I know I'll be able to break that this week since I'll be off my cycle!

I'm just getting excited. We're also starting to scuba dive, so I'm feeling very active. It's funny because before when I was skinny I was smoking and although somewhat active, I always felt like a cheat cause of the smoking. Now I'm finally eating well and living the life I always wanted, doing all sorts of fun activities, and now I just want my body to catch up with me!!

But it's been a fun process, I'm really looking forward to this week! Thanks again for the encouragement!

Later

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Still feeling pretty good this morning! My weight is at 133.5, which is good. I should be able to get that down ths week!

My weekend food plan went really well. I Ate every 2 1/2 to 3 hours and was eating the same sort of meals that I eat during the week. We also got take away with family and I ordered a spinach salad with grilled chicken, instead of my usually, fattier fare. So I was pleased with that!

I'm just anxious now to move on. I've been stuck here forever, and I think I'm doing the right work finally. As much as many people don't advice on longer stints of cardio, instead doing HIIT, I seem to work better with the longer sessions. I think it may be that I don't push myself enough on the HIIT, as I say minimal results with it. I'm going to stick with my cardio for awhile and see how it goes. Mabey when my weight gets down, the HIIT will work better for my new goals. We'll see.

I'll post my meals later!

[Ms. Lucy]

I can't believe it's August!!

Anyways, meals are going well today. Here's how it looks!

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 serving grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: 2 cups spinach; 3 oz chicken

1:30 MEAL 3: 3.5oz Tuna; 1 cup brown rice; 2 cup brocolli/cauliflower

4:00 MEAL 4: Banana; 7 walnut halves

6:00 MEAL 5: 3.5 oz tuna; 1 serving CytoVol

7:30 MEAL 6: 4 oz salmon; 1 cup brown rice; 1 large zucchini

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

EXERCISE:

4:45-30 Minutes Back/Bi Workout
5:30-30 Minutes Elliptical or Walk/Jog

[pipgarden]

Keep it up--sounds like you're doing great! Congrats on puppy pulling, too!!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks a lot!

I appreciate it!

[Ms. Lucy]

Well today the hubby and I celebrate 2 years of marriage! The sweetie actually woke up and made me breakfast (usually does, though) and when I came down he had a huge bouquet of flowers in a gourgeus vase sitting on the table. He also got me a cute little lingerie thing, probably more for him-lol. He's such a cutie! I'm so happy to be married!

Everyuthing else is going ok. My weight it still at 133.5, which is kinda hard for me, seeings how I've been at this weight for months now. I'm just going to make sure I get in some more cardio, going5x a week, instead of before doing just 3x a week. I really think my body needs the extra cardio to shed the fat.

My weight routine is going well. I'm hoping to meet with a trainer soon to review what I've been doing. I'd love to meet with her more, but I just don't have the money. She's $60/hr--well qualified, but after the puppy surgery, we're short on cash. Plus I just wasted that money on the nutritionist, so I feel like I may be taking a chance with this as well! But she has a master's in exercise science, so she's not some weekend workout warrior with a quick degree. Anyways, we'll see what happens. I've asked her is she does paskages to help bring the cost down, and I'm still waiting to see.

So that's about it. I'm having a great day because of my hubby, but I can't help but be slightly down. I really need to get into my 120's soon or I'm going to have a fit. I just don't know what I'm doing wrong, and I'm deathly afraid that my body has just picked this as it's set point, though I doubt it.

Enough complaining! I'll write down my foods later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Pretty good with meals today. I forgot, though, yesturday my hubby wasn't gettingoof til realy late, so we got a wendy's chili instead of the salmon we'll have tonight. Here's how today looks:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 2 slices lean ham; 1 serving grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: Apple; 7 walnut halves

1:30 MEAL 3: 3.5oz Tuna; 1 serving grape nuts; 2 cup brocolli/cauliflower

4:00 MEAL 4: Banana; 1/2 Roast Beef sandwich on ww bread w/ mustard

6:00 MEAL 5: 1/2 Roast Beef sandwich on ww bread w/ mustard

7:30 MEAL 6: 4 oz salmon; 1 cup brown rice; 1 large zucchini

+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

EXERCISE:

4:45-30 Minutes Chest/Tri
5:30-30 Minutes Elliptical or Walk/Jog

[Ms. Lucy]

Well last night wasn't too stellar. My hubby bought home some wine for our anniversary and we ended up eatingat an Italian place (I had lasagna). I know better, but also know that for some occassions, you do that. Yet I feel so incredibly aweful today. I almost threw up last night because I was sick with myself for eating it. I know that's horrible, but I think I'm getting to the point where I'm becoming obsessive with my weight, and totally discouraged by my lack of progress. So on those now rare occassions when I have a glass of wine, I actually feel better because I'm not thinking about all ths weight crap. Yet when I have a drink, I end up eating crap and feeling even worse. I know it seems obvious to skip the wine, and I honestly have quit drinking as much as I used to, but this is really unhealthy behavior to me. But I'm lost. Why aren't I losing more weight? I eat better than most people (ok, not competion diet or anything, but pretty darn good) and I workout 5x a week! Other people who just cut back from what they're eating seem to lose weight faster than me. Oh, and that sweet lingerie gift my hubby got me looked pathetic, and it upsets me because if I lost another 15 pounds it probably wouldn't look too bad.

I just don't get it. I'm very discouraged today and very down. I don't want to have a weight problem my whole life--I don't have the energry to deal with this. I'm so absolutely afraid that my body has decided to stay at this weight.

I'm just not sure what to do. I'vve been struggling now for over a year--yet I've only lost 10 pounds I just don't get it. I don't even know where to look for help. Everyone says something different. My nutritionist doesn't go by, get bf% just weight. The trainer I found is out of my reach financially, and I just don't know where to go from here.

Of course today is just a ****ty day. Perhaps tomorrow I'll feel better and won't be so down, I'm just worried that I'm becoming very unhealthy here. I'm just not sure what else to do.

I'll try and post my meals later.

[Emma-Leigh]

Argggg... That sucks.

:( Hang in there ok! Don't let your negative thoughts get to you. You have been doing really well - you have improved your body composition enormously, decreased your weight, increased your strength and improved your health... These are all positive things!

Don't let a number on a scale ruin your self-confidence and cause you to go mental!

I am glad you didn't vomit - that is not going to solve anything and it would do more damage (both physically and mentally) than anything else.

Ok... So things have come to a standstill - you just have to work out why!
1. Assess your training
2. Assess your cardio
3. Assess your diet - both macronutrient content and calorie content

Lets look at all these things and see what you can do....

Just stay sane ok! DO NOT let a 'diet' ruin your life!!

[pipgarden]

Miss Lucy, don't let numbers get you down! You are working very hard and had one cheat meal.

New day, begin again, don't let one meal ruin your day!! You eat so well, you are a big motivator to me when I look at your journal.

Be encouraged. You have supporters out here

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks!

I don't mean to complain--I think it's lack of sleep and dehydration! Plus, it can just be frustrating! But my only alternative is to go back to binge eating and not exercising, which isn't going to happen! My results just seem very slow, so and I'm so eager to get to the 120's. But I am trying to lift up my chin a bit today and get back on track. Today is my day off, so I'm actually going to nap and then I have an evening class to go to. Hopefully that will get me ready for a good leg workout! SO thanks for the support, I certainly need it and appreciate it! I'll stop being an idiot!

Anyways, here's my meals for today. I woke up supper late, so I missed my egg breakfast. All-in-all, my cals are probably pretty low today, but I'm also bloated from last night!Here goes:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 serving grape nuts; banana

10:00 MEAL 2: Apple; 7 walnut halves

12:30 MEAL 3: 3.5oz Tuna; 1 cup brown rice; 1 cup brocolli/cauliflower

4:00 MEAL 4: Prune; 1 tablsp Peanut Butter; 10 carrot sticks

6:30 MEAL 5: 1/2 Subway Sandwich; 10 asparagus spears


+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

EXERCISE:

None-Day Off

Thanks again for the support girls. I hate being so down on myself at times--I'm trying hard to get better at that!

[Ms. Lucy]

I can't help but feel a bit discusted with myself. The wife of a guy I know just lost her life from breast cancer, which she's been battling for years. I just found out this morning and it kind of threw things into a bit of perspective. Aside from my nagging weight, I'm healthy, have a wonderful husband and home. They also had 2 kids, which is just so sad.

So anyways, I feel silly for gettting so bent out of shape (though, I'm sure it won't be the last time, as things go). Overall I am making progress, I have and do see changes and while I may not be going as fast as some model or success story person, I am, nontheless making some progress. Though Emma is right, I need to reassess my overal plan since I've stalled.

So thanks again for the support. I'm now just feeling a bit down from the news. What a hrrible thing for a family to go through.

[pipgarden]

Very sad for the family and their friends.


don't be disgusted-that's life to complain until we see someone else's problems--isn't that how we use the forums?

We're all better and worse off than others. Just try to be up when a friends down and maybe they'll be up when you're down.

[Ms. Lucy]

Very true.

I think we often forget how fortuanate we are!I also know that complaining is part of life and pain exists to help us grow! And you're right, that's what these forums are for.

I just need to do the best for me. I'm not a miracle loose 20lbs in 10 days kinda gal. My weight loss is slow but still there. Yes, I'll complain about it more, but I just think it helps to keep things in perspective.

I uses to be better at that, more aware I guess, and have lost a lot of that from being so self-conscious. I defenetly don't want to have my life's focus be on my weight, on want it to be on happiness. Somehow, I need to learn more about balance. Still achieve and work towards my weight goals, but not become so consumed by them. Besides, you can't let some physical attributes lead you through life. You grwo older, your body changes and you'l lno longer look like a 20-something. I want to appreciate how my body changes instead of yelling at it all the time. I just hate how our society focuses on such insignificant things, and I hate more that I fall victim to it!

That's my new focud now, I have to learn to find happiness outside my physical body--what a pathetic life I would lead to think of nothing else, or let it interfere with more important things!

Thanks again pipgarden!

[Ms. Lucy]

Feeling a bt better. I'm looking forward to my workout and also to having a good night's sleep!

Here' show I'm looking for today:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1 serving grape nuts; banana (Running late)

10:00 MEAL 2: Apple; 3.5 oz tuna

12:30 MEAL 3: Ckn Salad (4 oz chicken, celery, walnuts and apple slices with light nayonnaise dressing)

4:00 MEAL 4: 10 carrot sticks + 2 celery stalks with 1.5 tablsp peanut butter

6:30 MEAL 5: Plum; 3.5 oz tuna

8:00 MEAL 6: 1 cup Chkn Salad; 10 asparagus spears


+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

EXERCISE:

4:45-30 Minutes Leg Workout
5:30-30 Minutes Elliptical/walk_jog (if I have enough energy!)

I really need to start tracking not my daily meals, but yesturday's meals. I type this around noon, and sometimes things change. I really want this to reflect exactly what I eat, so perhaps I'll try that starting next week, or this weekend!

Lucy

[pipgarden]

That's what I'm doing Lucy, waiting til the next day to type what I eat today. "cause sometimes it's the wee hours that get ya!!"

I'm 45 and as I get older I'm starting to think deeper thoughts. You're there already! :)

Take care!

[Ms. Lucy]

Well, I'm now at 132.5, which is just nice to see.

I also got an email from a personal trainer I had wanted to work with (still don't know if I can afford it) and she said she could (probably) get me in for bf testing at the University which has underwater testing. That would be great--but I assume I then have to pay her to train me-lol!

Overall I'm starting to feel a bit better with myself. I'm still frustrated at times, but I just need to stick to it. I'm going to change up my schedule for workouts next week and also change up some of my eating habits. I'm going to try including yogurt, possibly cottage cheese in somewhere. I know my diet is ok, but needs some fixing. I've also been waking up late and missing my eggs in the morning, so I definetly need to get better with that.

Also, I was able to do my walk/jog routine yesturday after my leg workout. My breathing is getting better, but my calves are still balling up. In fact, they hurt more when I stop and start walking than when I jog. Not sure what that means, but I am stretching.

Well, that's about it! I hope everyone is having a good day!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

I messed breakfast again--this weeks nasty habit! HOwever, I'm making eggs for dinner to make up for it!

Here's how today looks:

7:00 MEAL 1: 1.5 serving grape nuts

10:00 MEAL 2: Apple; 3.5 oz tuna

12:30 MEAL 3: Ckn Salad (4 oz chicken, celery, walnuts and apple slices with light nayonnaise dressing); large salad with 2 cups lettuce (romaine/red leaf) 5 large black olive a tablsp light dressing

4:00 MEAL 4: 10 carrot sticks + 2 celery stalks with 2 tablsp peanut butter

6:30 MEAL 5: Plum; 3.5 oz tuna

8:00 MEAL 6: 1 egg, 2 egg whites, 2 slices lean ham, onions, mushrooms and red pepper omlete


+1/2 gallon pure water (with lemon) +1/2 gallon decaf green tea.

EXERCISE:

4:45-30 Minutes Shoulder/Delt Workout
6:00-60 minutes Cardio Kickboxing plus ab work

I'm going to try and keep track of my meals this weekend as well.
Tomorrow I am also going to take the dog for an hour long walk including as much jogging as I can manage!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Pretty good weekend. I wanted to do more cardio last night, but it didn't happen. I'm going to try and do an 45 minutes each day this week. I'm also switching up my 4 day spliit. Today I will work on legs.

This morning I felt sick and sort of skipped breakfast--I know that's not good, but my stomach really felt terrible.

I was also supposed to speak with my "trainer" yesturday but she didn't call. It was kind of disappointing, but what can I do?

Overall, just feeling ok.

[Ms. Lucy]

Same thing.

Just another day.

[Spongebob7]

Hi, I'm not an authority, but I noticed that often you have complex carbs like brown rice or the roll on your subway in the evening, and it is often recommended that for leaning complex carbs be replaced after the mid day meal with green vegetables for the rest of the day.
Personally, I always feel leaner/less bloated the day after an evening where dinner consisted of a lean protein and some green vegetables rather than rice/pasta/bread.
I realize you are not cutting, but I wanted to address your frustrations with how slowly you have been losing. If this were done consistently, I think you would see slightly quicker weight loss.
I would also suggest weigh ins only once a week, though I think it's been said.
HTH

[Ms. Lucy]

lol--thanks Spongebob!

I am very aware of the weigh in thing--it's become an unhealthy obsession of mine, that I really need to get rid of!

As for the carbs--I have actually heard both arguments, however, seeing that my results have all but stopped, I'll take that advice. I will however, have to have some carbs in the evening, since I lift in the early evening.

I'm also hoping to hook up with a trainer here. Although I can't afford it, I think it would be good to have someone lead me in the right direction, otherwise I'm going to go nutty!

Thanks again for the reminder--I'll try and put the scale away.

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

I'm VERY happy today!

Last night I spoke with my husband about the fact that I've just been so upset latetly and feeling like I'm getting nowhere. I had also researched personal trainers in the area and found a preoffesional bodybuilder about a half hour away that trains. We can't necessarily spend the money, but he agreed to let me sign up for 15 sessions--which will be 3x a week for about 5 weeks!

I'm really thinking that this will help me work on both my form and push myself harder in the gym--not to mention expose me to new machines (leg press) that I don't have at home. I love being able to train at home, but I know I would push myself harder with a trainer, and hopefully that's what I need to get myself going.

The trainer will also make recommendations fore my diet. He's not a nutritionist, and informed me he has to say so, he again, he can suggest things. Having had a poor experience with a nutiritonist, I'm not worried about that so long as he still recommends veggies and moderate carbs!

I am VERY, VERY stoked. I've done things my way for so long, that it will really be a relief to just listen to what someone say, do it! My hubby is also going to help me cook and make sure I do everything he says---even if that means getting up at 4:30m in the morning to go jogging!

I can't wait!

I just have to send him a message and let him know I'm ready to move forward.

I'll keep you posted!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

I forgot to mention this!

I'm putting the scale away!

The last few months have been hell. I'd be feeling fine, then weigh myself and get depressed. I'm excited about training with this professional bodybuilder and don't want a number to get inthe way. I will take all my meaurements before and hopefully get my body fat tested. I will probably weigh myself just before I train, but then it's up inthe attic for at least 1 month--hopefully longer if I can do it!

I'm really looking forward to getting some good training!

lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I start Saturday--we're doing Chest/Back!

It'll be nice to work with someone! I'm pretty excited. My only concern at this point is that my wrist is bothering me--but only when I put too much pressure on it. I REALLY hope it doesn't hurt on Saturday as I don't want to feel like an idiot!

I also haven't been posting meals lately. Not because I'm not eating well--because I am, but I've just been busy and figur I will post them as soon as I figure out what kind of plan he wants to put me on!

But I'm really looking forward to this. It's about bloody time!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well meals are going well today--however, my wrist is still somewhat sore!

This afternoon I'm going to go on the elliptical for 45 minutes. I'm not doing weights until I start Saturday!

I'm just so excited! It would be wonderful to finally get rid of this extra bit of fat for once!

I'm just praying that it's a lot easier to keep it off then to get it off!

[ChocoChick]

This sounds great! I hope you are able to achieve your goals... and then some!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks, me too!

I was sitting down last night trying to remember how good it felt when I was at 115 and could wear anything and was actually happy with my body.

I try not to get too upset with myself now, but I REALLY want my body back. I wonder if that's being vain?

Anyways, I'm excited to work with this trainer(tomorrow!!) and my wrist is actually feeling a bit better!

We'll see what happens!

Lucy

[SEADRA]

You have a really great attitude!!!! I remember when I was 150lb and would do anything to be 120. I stayed consisitent and it seemed oneday the weight just started droping and droping, a little to far. 110-115 is also my goal. If you dont mind me aking how far away from 115 are you?

[Ms. Lucy]

lol--if you saw any of my entries from last week you may have to second guess that "great attitude" remark-lol. Honestly, I'm doing MUCH better this week--and realize now that I DO need a trainer for some help!

Anyways, I'd like to say I'm 15lbs away from my goal. I think my ideal is between 115-117 for now and I weigh around 132-133 now, although my weight has been hovering at that mark for months, which was my wake up call to get some help!

I started out at 142 + (wouldn't weigh myself after 142-lol) last January. SO given the time frame (ok, I gave up a few times and was bingeing) I haven't lost much scale weight, but my body composition has changes quite a bit.

Like you, I'm praying to see 120-something. Can't wait til 125. However, because of my little breakdown last week, I'm going to just weigh myself once tomorrow morning and put the scale away for the next 5 weeks while I work with this trainer!

As for you--how long did it take to get from 150-115 (or are you there yet). What are your stats and workout schedule like, if you don't mind my asking. I'm hoping to get my weight down to 115ish by Christmas--I think doable goal (if I can stay away from the red wine-lol)

[SEADRA]

I only weigh 103 I'm trying to gain to 115. I went to boot camp at 150 and came out at 134 3 months later. The hardest weight to loose seemed to 128 that took a month or so. After 128 it started to fly off even when I wasn't trying to loose weight. I had my body on such a routine I really gave it no choice. I do remember it didnt seem to happen gradually I just steped on the scale and was hapilly surprised. Of course I did not own my own scale so I couldn't weigh myself all the time.

[Ms. Lucy]

Wow--funny how you went straight past your ideal weight and are now trying to get the weight back on! I feeling like saying I wish I was in that position, but I'm sure it's just as frustrating!

Also, boot camp for 3 months--wow--I may have to consider that-lol!

Well, we'll see what my trainer says, I have a lot of cleaning up to do with my program and hopefully will have some good results.

Keep me posted on your progress!

[Emma-Leigh]

Originally posted by Ms. Lucy
Anyways, I'm excited to work with this trainer(tomorrow!!) and my wrist is actually feeling a bit better!

We'll see what happens!

Lucy

Good luck!! :D

[halo518]

Yes - good luck! I can't wait to hear how it goes ... hope he gives you your money's worth and then some ;-) Please keep some good mental notes to share in your journal tomorrow - I know I for one will be waiting anxiously to read all about it!

[Ms. Lucy]

Who-hoo!!!

Trainer is AWESOME!!!! My back and chest are already killing me. After 2 sets I was working harder than I ever have before! We actually worked out for about 2 hours--talking all about my training and his past experience. I train legs tomorrow and he said not to eat for a few hours before so I don't puke!! I've never almost puked during a workout--I can't wait!!

Plus, he addressed my main concern as well. For months I've been listening or reading so much about different training techniques and nutritional programs that I ahven't been able to stick to one for any length of time before second guessing it. So he's going to outline a nutritional program for me on Wednesday and I'm going to stick to it!

So for the next 5 weeks I'll be training about 1.5 hours 3x a week with him doing:
Sat: Back/Chest
Sun: Legs
Wed: Arms/Shoulders

I'll also train abs every other day. He did recommend a 5-day split but he's a good 1/2 hour away, so I can really only do this for now!

I feel so good--so sore, and crazy as it is--I love that feeling!

Oh--and 2 awesome things happened at the gym.

1. After doing a bit of my chest workout, some random guy came up and wanted to know how long I was working with the trainer because I looked so muscular!!! He then walked over to my trainer and I think made a similar comment.

2. I was doing seated rows and this guy wanted to work inbetween sets with me and my trainer said fine. So I was about to do another set and this guy was like, oh, I have it at 100lbs, you may want to move it, and my trainer was like, no, that's what she's doing. lol He was older and not really fit, but it still made me laugh a bit. When we were done, he was telling my trainer that he could go heavier, he was just taking it easy. lol. I feel bad, but it felt good!

I also did incline chest presses at 75lbs and my trainer said I could easily do 100lbs normally. It may not be much, but I remember shaking when I just lifted a bar (actually, he started me off with the 35lb bar because I don't think he believed I could go a bit heavier-lol.

I just love this--one day and I love it. I've never really been pushed before or had someone push me. So obviouslly my confidence is up big time--I can't wait to see result!!!

Anyways, thanks for the encouragement guys! I can't wait to let you know how things progress!

More tomorrow--hopefully I won't puke!!

Lucy

[SEADRA]

I recently have been seeing a trainer. She does not seem as good as yours. She is new to the business though. I'm so happy for you this is just the extra motivation you need.

Good luck!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Sea!

I'm about to go to my leg session and I actually have butterflyies in my stomach!!

I also woke up this morning and could barely pull myself up from all the ab work I did. My back and chest are also killing--but I love that feeling!

I let you know if I can walk later (hubby has to drive me just in case I can't!-lol)

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

Originally posted by Ms. Lucy
Thanks Sea!

I'm about to go to my leg session and I actually have butterflyies in my stomach!!

I also woke up this morning and could barely pull myself up from all the ab work I did. My back and chest are also killing--but I love that feeling!

I let you know if I can walk later (hubby has to drive me just in case I can't!-lol)

Lucy

Sooo - SPILL!!

How did your legs day go??!! Did you puke?!! :D Nausea? See spots? Does it hurt to sit already??

TELL!! (Hmmm.. Seems I gain vicarious pain via your leg-workout torture!!) ;)

How is your eating looking? Is he giving you advice on that?

[Ms. Lucy]

OH MY GOSH!!!

C-A-N-T ----M-O-V-E

lol.

Wow, what a workout.

Before I started, I had two different people come up to me and ask if it was my first leg training day. When I said yes they both smiled and said good luck. :)

ANyways, it was a very LONG session--about 2 hours. Mainly because we were trying to get the right weight on a variety of exercises. He said he underestimated my strength. For example, I have never really done hack squats, so he figured the weight of the machine alone would exhaust me. However, we made it to an extra 75 lbs before I maxed out! But he wanted to give me at least 2 good working sets as the other didn't exhaust me--so we did quit a few.

Overall I did:
Hack Squats
Leg Press
Leg Ext
Leg Curl
Standing Calf Raises

By the end, by legs were jello-lol. I LOVED it!

It was funny too, because he figured the pain (next day_ would bother me so much I would never come back (many clients haven't). But I LOVE this feeling, my legs feel huge (in a good way)!

As for the meal plan, he said he's going to map on out tomorrow for me. He is NOT a nutritionist, he's just making suggestions (hi gf is a figure competitor too). But he thinks he'll keep me around 1500 cals (bit higher on training days) and keep carbs at about 50%. Also, not friut for now. He says fruit in general is fine, but it's natures dessert, and during the next few months I'm not allowed dessert! FIne by me. I certainly know some argue fruit is fine and such, but that's been my biggest problem, I've listened to and heard so many different things, so this time I'm just going to listen to him and follow his advbice to the tee. Taht way if I don't make good progress, I can at least say it wasn't something I did or I didn't follow 100% . THEN I'll probably take different advice.

But this guy seems really cool--down to tearth and certainly walks the walk.

Right now my whole body is aching--I even had to wear a button down shirt! Of course I real do love every second of it!

I only wish I could train with someone for more than 5 weeks, but I just don't think that's possible.

Anyways, that's it for now. I am doing arms and shoulders tomorrow (unless I'm too sore, and we will move it to Thursday).

Oh one other thing--this is exhausting-lol. I finished yesturday by 1:00 and I was literally falling asleep from exhaustion by 4 that evening. My body just had enough! Of course, I've been sleeping REALLY well.

So yeah, it's great and totally what I need emotionally and physically right now. I can't wait til tomorrow to see what I'll be eating!

Let you know when I do Emma!

Lucy

[SEADRA]

I hate legs but your routine sounds just like mine. You probaly wont even need a trainer after five weeks just get all the fundamentals now. Make sure he shows you each move correctly and after he's gone just continue with all your added knowledge. My trainer looks really out of shape at leat 15 pounds over weight and barely any muscle definition. But she seems to know her stuff. But I will admit it worries me a little she's giving me all this training but why does she not do it herself. I'm probaly just being paranoid. Anyway glad to see you like your trainer.

[Emma-Leigh]

Originally posted by Ms. Lucy
OH MY GOSH!!!

C-A-N-T ----M-O-V-E

lol.

...

By the end, by legs were jello-lol. I LOVED it!

It was funny too, because he figured the pain (next day_ would bother me so much I would never come back (many clients haven't). But I LOVE this feeling, my legs feel huge (in a good way)!
Woo Hoo!! That sounds like you had the BEST fun!!! Nothing like a good leg workout! God I love legs days....

I LOVE that burning pain of not being able to sit down the next few days too!! :D

I am so glad that this is working out for you!! Keep the info on the workouts coming!! And do let me know about the nutrition plan (would be interested to see!!) :)

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey thanks guys!

Yeah, I'm thinking that after these five months I'm going to have him plan out some workouts for me for the next 2 months and just check in with him every 2 weeks or so. I definetly do well with some accountability!!

Today I get my meal plan (can't wait!) and I also work my arms and shoulders. Because we only workout 3x a week the sessions are a bit long, but well worth it. Plus, I'm only doing cardio4x a week for about 30 minutes so I have plenty of time to rest. I actually went to bed last night at 7:30. I was just wipped out. WHile I do need to watch out for overtraining, I just think for now my body is shocked from bring it up a few notches. But i feel good, and love the routines. Overall, the soreness has gone down a bit (ok, little sad about that) but I'm glad since I'm working arms today. Ideally, we'd do it on Wednesday's, but he has a client, so that's how it has to be!

Also, the hubby and I went out last night for an early somewhat cheat dinner since I get my nutritional plan tomorrow and will follow it religiously! I just had a glass of wine and a brownie for dessert!!

I also took all my measurements and some pictures to follow up on my progress. He said he prefers to use measurements and pics rather than testing bf or weight because so many women get obsessed with the numbers (I am one of those). He said it sucks to train someone who's doing well, looking anf feeling good and then get onthe scale or take their bf and literally cry because it's not the "number" they wanted. I can relate. Pictures are fine for me. If I want to compete at some point, I'll probably need them, but I'm fine with that for now. Even this weekend I felt good and wasn't upset about my weight, as I know it will change. It's probably a nice thing for my husband as well. I feel so bad for letting this affect him so much! BUt again, the trainer said that by Christmas I'll have a kickass body. I'm looking forward to that!

ANyways, I'll let you know how my training session goes tonight. I start at 6:30--so I probably won't get home til 9--and I'm sure I'll go straight to bed!

Until then!!

[Spongebob7]

This is so cool! :cool: I am really excited for you Ms. Lucy. It is great to see how excited you are about your trainer and your new routines. You are inspiring me to work harder in the gym!
Thanks! :D

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey Thanks!

And I've thrown away the scale btw! (ok, put it upstairs)

I don't think I've worked out this hard in my whole life!

I'll keep you posted!

Good luck kicking butt in the gym!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Awe Man!!

I wasn't able to make it to my session last night. I feel awesful that I had to reschedule last minute but I was absolutely exhausted by 4pm. Training started at 6:30 and I'd have to drive 30 minutes back at 8:30 and that just wasn't going to happen. I wanted to go so bad though--especially because I was getting my nutritional program outlined. But what can you do. It probably would have tazed my body to go when I really just needed to sleep. I'm hoping I'm less fatigued today and will train arms now on Thursday at 7.

Overall the soreness is going away--except my left calve which is still hard to walk on-lol. I'm also hoping again that my body just has to get used to this sort of training and then I'll be a bit less fatigued. I don't mind going to bed at 8 in the evening (wake up 6:30) but getting wasted by 4 is a little sad! But I'll talk to the trainer about it.

Aside from that I'm doing ok. Eating is still not 100% as I haven't been shopping because I thought I was going to be following this meal plan. So I've been eating up our pasta and tuna. But again, I'll have it Thursday evening. So by the weekend I should be good to go!

I'm still very excited and motivated. I'm hoping to be back to shape by the holidays!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Finally!

I had a great arm/shoulder workout and got my nutritional programlast night. I need to go shopping so it will officially start tomorrow--though I'm still trying to eat weel now.

ANyways, it's basically about 1500 cals--I can do a bit more on workout days and a bit less on non-days. It's also:

50% complex carbs (rice, potatoes, oatmeal, some pasta)
30-40% Lean Protein
10-20% Fat.

I can also have all the veggies I want, and they don't count as calories. ALso, not fruit til I've lost the weight. He says it's antures candy and I'm not allowed candy for awhile.

I should stress, however, it's not an end-all diet. He told me that if I'm starving, sluggish or whatever we will make adjustments--and I should be starving myself.

He wants me to keep fat at 10% the first week and see how I go. If I need to I can up the fat intake and cals. But once again, I'm just going to listen to what the man says right now. I haven't made much progress over the last few months, so I'd rather just listen to his advice.

Tonight I'm going to go shopping and start preparing everything I need for the week.

I feel good except I must have pulled a muscle in my neck. You know, when you can't turn the stupid thing to one side cause it hurts. That really sucks because I have so much driving to do today, but what can you do?

I'm also much more rested. He said the first week would be brutal, and he wants to take it down a notch from last weekend, so I don't destroy myself.

So I still feel great about him. He's hard and no-nonsense but not to the point of causing injury or overtraining. I also feel good about the diet. It's just to get me started and then I can raise cals when the weight is off. But I'm glad he's big on carbs too, because I just don't agree with high protein diets, and would probably not have made it to work if I wasn't eating any last week!

Well, that's about it! Again, we do legs tomorrow, which is my favorite! I'll let you know how I do!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Just had another killer leg workout! I also start my eating program today.

Everything is going gret--can't wait to see results!!!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Chest and Back today! Another great workout.

I've really been feeling the workouts, and am getting much less tired than I was last week!

Tomorrow is just cardio!

[Ms. Lucy]

Feeling WONDEFUL!

My back is pretty stiff from yesturdays workout, and my legs are still stiff. We ended up doing drop sets for hack squats on Saturday that murdered my legs.

We are certainly training LONG, but we rest a LOT inbetween each set. We are also doing about 4 exercises for main muscles and 3 for smaller--whereas before I was doing 3 exercises for larger and 2 for smaller. We also do a few warm-up sets before the heavy weight for legs to keep me warmed up and then 3-4 "wroking sets." There are probably a lot of people who may disagree, and I have questioned it, but it seems to be working well. This week I have a ton of energy, as opposed to last week, and just love the tightness in my muscles. It's also nice because we work hard on the weekend and 1 day during the week, so aside from cardio, my weeknights are freed up to cook. Also, weekends have always been the hardest for me, and this helps get me off on the right foot. Aside from the distance, (30 mins t0-from) I'm really quite happy.

My diet is also going well for the few days I've followed it. It's a nice change from what I've been doing. Hopefully I can start tracking it again, but I've just been so busy I haven't had time.

On a final note, a pair of pants I bought in the winter are practically falling off me now! Hopefully I can get another pair this weekend--not that I'm complaining or anything-lol!

Lucy

[jkmom]

Good luck with your new diet! Your trainer sounds excellent! How nice to find someone knowledgeable! I have been working with a trainer for a few weeks now and really like him. He is a former Olympian and really knows his stuff! He is in his 60's so he has seen it all!
Keep up the graet work!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks JK! I think trainers can be very beneficial when you're starting out or stuck like I am! ANd it feels nice to be so sore!

Anywho, here's my meals for today:

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1 serving oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 cup brown rice; 4 oz Chicken

MEAL 3: 3.5 Oz Tuna; 1 serving wheat bran; small sald with olive oil/vinegar dressing, red peppers, cucumbers

MEAL 4: 1 serving egg noodles; 4 oz Chicken

MEAL 5: 1/2 cup Oatmeal; Tuna

MEAL 6: 4 oz Chicken; 1 cup brown rice


Total: 1600 Cals
50% Carbs
35% Protein
15% Fat

I have also noticed that the new brown rice (long grain) I've been buying has a lot less cals/carbs than the short grain I used to buy.

Also, I'll do 30-45 minutes of cardio tonight. This week should be interesting--I'm busy as heck, am getting my period and need to stick to my diet 100%!

SHould be fun!-lol

Lucy

[jkmom]

Your diet is perfect!! Wish I had that discipline!!

[Emma-Leigh]

Originally posted by Ms. Lucy
Thanks JK! I think trainers can be very beneficial when you're starting out or stuck like I am! ANd it feels nice to be so sore!

Anywho, here's my meals for today:

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1 serving oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 cup brown rice; 4 oz Chicken

MEAL 3: 3.5 Oz Tuna; 1 serving wheat bran; small sald with olive oil/vinegar dressing, red peppers, cucumbers

MEAL 4: 1 serving egg noodles; 4 oz Chicken

MEAL 5: 1/2 cup Oatmeal; Tuna

MEAL 6: 4 oz Chicken; 1 cup brown rice


Total: 1600 Cals
50% Carbs
35% Protein
15% Fat

I have also noticed that the new brown rice (long grain) I've been buying has a lot less cals/carbs than the short grain I used to buy.

Also, I'll do 30-45 minutes of cardio tonight. This week should be interesting--I'm busy as heck, am getting my period and need to stick to my diet 100%!

SHould be fun!-lol

Lucy

Diet looks excellent Samantha!! (+ all the vege's you want!! Yum!! :p ). Trainer sounds like he knows his stuff - I am so pleased for you!!

Don't let yourself fall into the trap of a mindset of "it is my period week so I am going to crave more". If you tell yourself that this week is no different to every other week and you do not let yourself get away with "period cheating" then you will have no problems sticking to your diet!!

Keep going! :D

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey thanks for the support guys!

Emma, I'm very happy with the diet. He said you either go higher carbs and low fat or people do low protein, higher fat diets. We both prefer eating carbs!! The lower fat is tough, but probably what my body needs. In fact he used a nice analogy and explained my diet/past dieting in terms of starting a fire. Basically you start off with lots of kindling and twigs to get it going. If you happen to throw in a huge log right away it will kill the fire, however, build the fire up huge and a huge log will actually help it get bigger. Well, that's what my metabolism has been doing. I eat good monday thru Friday but then eat crappy foods on the weekend and distinguish my gains. He said to just stick with the diet 100% for a month or so and if my progress starts to wane, THEN I can throw in a big log to keep things going again. SOunds silly, but it made sense!!

Anywho, today I was running around a bit and ate less than I should, but I had work meetings and couldn't leave--but I also didn't eat anything bad. Tonight I do shoulders and arms and then cardio until Saturday. Here's how the diet looks so far for today:

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein Shake (in a meeting)

MEAL 3: Grilled chkn salad (5 oz?) with lettuce/tomatoes

MEAL 4: 3.5 oz Tuna; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: Protein Shake; 1 cup oatmeal (after workout)

I'd love to eat another meal, but I'll be asleep after my post workout meal! I'll eat a bit more this week to be balanced!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well, as expected I got my period today. My hubby has been buying me these heat wrap things for my stomach which make me feel heeps better at night.

As for the diet, it's still going really well. We had fajitas last night in corn tortillas. It was a nice semi-treat, as we used a packet of seasoning which is loaded with sodium. Aside from that my diet was spot on, but I just wanted a strong seasoning since I've been eating plain tuna and chicken all week. But in general I feel pretty good, even though I'm typically pretty crappy my first day.

My tri and bi's are also pretty sore today from our workout. I'm also really looking forward to this weekends sessiuons. I just get such a high now. I don't have the same doubt I did before thinking I was doing the wrong things and obsessing about my weight. I actually feel like I'm making progress now and am starting to notice my muscles a bit better--my stomach even seems flatter! SO overall, whicle a bit pricy for us, I think a trainer was definetly the way to go--especially the one I got.

So I'm pretty much doing better than ever! I'll try to post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

SO far so good today. I think I'll just do leftovers for dinner!

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 3.5 Oz Tuna; 1 serving Cracked Wheat; 10 asparagus spears

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Oz Tuna; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 6: 4oz Chicken Fajitas; 2 small corn tortillas; red pepper/onion/spices. 4 tablsp ff sour cream, lettuce

Calories: 1500
45% Carbs
45% Protein
10% Fat

I'll also do 30-45 minutes Cardio. Yesturday I did 30 minutes.

My trainer has also been keeping track of my workouts, so I'm going to show my workout routines here. It's probably nothing too special, but I think it will be neat to just show what I'm doing-also good just to keep track!

Lucy

[jkmom]

You are doing so well! Keep up the great work!! Love the nutrition plan!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks! I'm trying!

(I can't wait to get some pics up in a month or so!)

[SEADRA]

I am just curious when you say 1 cup oatmeal is that one cup dry or 1 cup cooked? And 1/2 cup oatmeal dry or cooked? I am wondering beacause i aeat and love oatmeal and was wondering if my servings were right. I eat 1/2 cup dry but I hear people say thay eat a 1/2 cup cooked, so it confuses me.
Thanks

Glad you like your trainer!!

Seadra

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey Sea!

I actually eat 1/2 cup DRY as a serving. In fact, I hate eating oatmeal with water or milk, so I seriously scoop a 1/2 cup into a cup and eat it. Talk about your coworkers looking at you funny!

Overall I'm feeling great! I did 30 mins on the elliptical yesturday and 30 minute brisk walk with my dog. I'm actually feeling smaller and more tight and I'm on my period, so that's pretty unusual, but great. This weekend I know I'm going to have 2 hard sessions and I'm already starting to get bummed since I only have 10 more sessions with this trainer. I'd love to do more, but I really don't think we can do it!

Diet is also still going great. Today kinda stinks as we have a meeting out of the office with another company that's providing lunch. I had my usual eggs and oatmeal this morning and will try to squeeze in a prtein shake on the way to the meeting (9:00) but then they won't serve lunch I'm sure, until 12, which sucks, but happens. Hopefully it won't be too terribly bad! My luck it will be pizza. I'll just graze and then run home quick when we get back and grab something from home.

But aside from that I'm feeling great!! I can't wait to workout this weekend and then weigh in on Monday--Im seriously not trying to be obsessive, but the trainer said once a week is ok! If I get upset, I swear I'll throw it out!!

ANyways, hopefully I can post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Going great today. I fit in a protein shake before our meeting and was home for a good lunch! I swear I can feel myself getting smaller-lol! Anywho, here's how today looks:


MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein Shake

MEAL 3: 4 oz Chicken; 1 serving egg noodles

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Oz Tuna; 1 serving cracked wheat

MEAL 6: 4oz Chicken; 1 cup rice; 10 asparagus spears; red peppers, mushrooms, onions

Calories: 1550
48% Carbs
44% Protein
10% Fat

[Emma-Leigh]

Originally posted by Ms. Lucy
Going great today. I fit in a protein shake before our meeting and was home for a good lunch! I swear I can feel myself getting smaller-lol! Anywho, here's how today looks:


MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein Shake

MEAL 3: 4 oz Chicken; 1 serving egg noodles

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Oz Tuna; 1 serving cracked wheat

MEAL 6: 4oz Chicken; 1 cup rice; 10 asparagus spears; red peppers, mushrooms, onions

Calories: 1550
48% Carbs
44% Protein
10% Fat

Diet looks absolutely spot on Samantha!! :D

Don't stress about loosing the trainer - enjoy it while it lasts and KNOW that you now have been given different techniques that you can use in the gym to help intensify your own workouts!

Keep it up - you are doing REALLY REALLY well!!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma! I'm feeling good. I was a bit concerned about the low fat, but it seems to be working fine. HE said that onc I get down to a weight I'm happy with, I can change it up to include more healthy fats, but just not for now.

This weekend I did a chest and back workout on Saturday which was great but got a horrible migraine about 4:30am before my leg workout. I took my medicine, but it was still lingering, so I had to cancel my session. It really stunk too since we were changing up legs and getting more hard core. But this happens every so often, so I guess I just have to take it!

As for the weight, I'm waiting until tomorrow. It's the last day of my period, so I figured that would be ok.I also feel bad having not done anything yesturday! But I'm hopefully going to get in a bit of cardio this afternoon so long as my head doesn't start again. I can tell it's still there, but it's strange for me to have it linger so long. Hopefully I won't start getting them all the time again.

Anyways, that's about it. Everything else is going great!I can't wait to train legs tomorrow! I'm so addicted to this kind of training--my back is STILL sore from Saturday! lol

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 3.5 Oz Tuna; 1 serving Cracked Wheat

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Oz Tuna; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 6: 4oz Chicken; 1 cup rice; 1 cup veggies

Calories: 1520
48% Carbs
43% Protein
19% Fat
28 Grams Fiber

I didn't cook much since I had my migraine--I will tonight. Hopefully I can eat some more brown rice and have a bit less oatmeal--the taste is bugging me today!

I'll also do 45 minutes on the elliptical this evening!

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I'm between 131.5 and 132. My scale does 2 reading, ones with bf (which isn't too accurate) and another by itself. I got both readings this morning. So basically I've been on this diet a little over a week and have lost 2lbs, which is good.

Tonight I will be doing the leg session I missed on Sunday. It will make for a really long evening--but I always feel pumped after legs!

So far so good. I just have to not get ahead of myself. I remember looking at the scale and thinking that 132 wasn't much of a change, but it is--it's 2 pounds since I started the diet and that's excellent. I just think you get into that mindset where you are ready to see yourself drop 10pounds-lol. I just have to keep at it--NO CHEATING!! lol.

That's about it for today. Feeling good.

I'll post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

ok day, though not enough "real" foods. I'm trying to only have 1 or max 2 protein shakes a day~usually if I'm working out, but today got the better of me and I wasn't able to cook and will be gone all this evening! So I know the meals look a bit pitiful, but I'm working on it! ALso, because I train legs so long, and lose my appetite, I tend to lose a meal, thus some cals, but usually make it up later in the week!
MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 3.5 Oz Tuna; 1 cup brown rice; 1 cup broccoli/cauliflower

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 1.5 Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 6: Possibly another meal if awake and hungry but doubt it.

Calories: 1351
49% Carbs
41% Protein
10% Fat
24 Grams Fiber

Luckily the migraine is gone and and my stomach has settled today!

Hopefully we should have a great session, I know he talked about switching things up--so maybe I'll have more problems than usual walking tomorrow! CAN'T WAIT!!!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I just screwed up my knee. Go figure.

I warmed up well and stretched. We started on leg presses and right after the first 2 warm up sets when we added more weights, as soon as I brought my knee down to my chest the side of it started hurting. We tried lowering the weight and doing hack squats but both hurt. We eneded up doing some a ham and calf workout. In the meantime I was told to ice it, take some advil and we'll stretch more next time if it seems ok and ease into it. If it still hurts in a week I'll have to see someone. I really hope it's nothing major.

BUt that just sucks--I was just getting the hang of things.

[Ms. Lucy]

Wow, been out of commision for awhile! lol.

My knee still feels icky and I've been laying off it for now. I have also been dealing with migraines, which haven't bothered me in months, and now i got 2 this week that made me miss a day of work and a training session. I'm really hoping that they go away--I hate having to be on medication as is screws up my eating.

I'm also bummed about not doing any cardio. My trainer says to rest my knee and just do workouts that don't affect it.

I'll do shoulders/bi's and tri's tomorrow alone, since he can't train me, and then we'll do chest and back on Sunday. I may even do my arm workout today, just depends on time--though I'd prefer to give myself a day before jumping into back and chest.

Aside from that I'm just ok. My weight went up 1 pound--but my eating has been messed up because of my migraines. Not eating bad--but only 2-3 times a day because it gives me an upset stomach. But I woke up this morning and started the day off right with breakfast and so long as I don't get hit with another migraine I should be ok.

BUt that's all. I'll try an dpost my meals later if I don't get too busy!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Wow--been awhile!

Stil ldoing great. My knee is not 100% but we're just giving it a bit more time--which I think is smart.

Yesturday I actually got on the scale and it said 130!! It hasn't gone that low for almost 2 years!!! Of course, this morning I jumped on hoping that I may hit the 120's for once and it said 132. I'm not sure what's up with that but honest to goodness it WAS 130 yesturday. I think I'll just keep up with my exercises as normal and then check it again next Monday. I simply can't go through weighing myself every day!

But I'm doing great and am VERY happy with hte development I see in my body. It was definetly a wise investment getting a trainer for awhile. I don't think I can afford a whole month again, but I may try and hook up with him every 2 weeks or so to do a leg workout or possibly back/chest workout. I also love that gym. It's a half hour away but so much better than the Bally's crap gym near me. We'll see. I'm just worrd about the snow!

My meals are also going well. I did cheat and have an ice cream cone (small) on Saturday for our Labor Day picnic! Again it was really small but I enjoyed every bite!

That's about it! I train shoulders and arms tonight and will do a half hour of cardio right after. Although this is my least favorite day--now that my arms are really starting to take shape I'm enjoying them much more!

I'll probably start posting my meals again tomorrow. Just been busy!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Feeling great today! Had a wonderful shoulder/arms workout last night. In fact, I could barely lift my shoulders last night! I also got in a bit of cardio and will do some more this evening.

Meals are going well today, however I can't track the cals because I forgot to enter my veggie/turkey meatloaf infor into fitday, but here's how it looks:

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 serving Veggie/Turkey Meatloaf

MEAL 3: 1 cup pasta shells; 4 oz chicken

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 1.5 Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 6: 3.5 Oz Tuna; Baked Potato (might make zuchini soup-80 cals)


I'll also try and get in 40 minutes of cardio.

Pretty good day!

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

Hey Samantha!!

Just wanted to pop my head in and see how things were going!! Your diet is still looking amazingly clean (and that little ice-cream cheat is not going to hurt a bit ;) ). It is obviously working too - Congratulations on the 130!!! (I am sure it WAS 130 too!! Small water fluctuations can add 2 pounds easily!).

That sucks to hear about your knee - How is it going today?

Anyway - keep it up!!

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey Thanks Emma!

I'm feeling great. The knee is still so-so. We just haven't worked it yet. We may try on Sunday and if it's even slightly crappy we'll wait another week. It's not hurting me or anything, but I want to let it heal.

But the diet is good--training is great and I'm feeling goo dabout my progress. My hubby is also obssessed with my back development!

Getting there!

Tonight is supposed to be leg training, but becuase of my knee we'll probably do hams, calves and abs. My hams are a little weak so it will be nice to focus on them. I'll probably also do some elliptical after.

That's about it for now. I wasn't able to cook last night and have no food in the house, so today's foods will be pretty much tuna. protein powder and oatmeal! Oh well, I was spoiled for a few days with my veggie meatloaf so I'm sure I'll live.

Later

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Again, pretty boring day, but at least it's clean!

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1/2 cup oatmeal; 3.5 oz tuna

MEAL 3: 1 large baked potato;2 tablsp ff sour cream (25 cals); 3.5 oz tuna

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 1.5 Protein Shake; 1 cup pasta

I will also be doing a hams/calves/abs workout along with 45 minutes of elliptical this evening.

I need to start making more VEGGIES!!!

[Ms. Lucy]

Man was I tired last night--but I feel great. I'm also wearing my skinny pants. Actually they're huge--I really need to get new ones, but I kinda am obsessed with the feeling of them about to fall off if that makes sense! THey were snug when I bought them last year and are probably now 2 sizes too big. I also went shopping last weekend and fit into a petite 4--I couldn't believe it. And it was Ann Taylor, not some crazy store that SAYS you're wearing a 4 but it's really a 6. So that really made me smile. After a while you DO FINALLY realize there's more to measuring weight than the scale. ANd man I love my trainer!--I'm seeing great results. (cries now b/c she can't afford him anymore)

Last night we did hams, calves and abs. I also did some leg extensions to warm up my knee. Nothing heavy. I'll probably give it one more week and then try a good workout. We also slammed abs yesturday. I did 150 full sit ups and then about 50 leg raises in 2 sets of 25. BUt it felt awesome to go out and do 150 sit ups no problem. He also said I should stick to high reps for abs for awhile, since we don't want to develope them too much. I agree. When I do weighted stugg my abs protrude and develope quick, I just want a falst stomch with slight defintition, which is more about lowering body fat than anything else. I also did 25 minutes on the elliptical. (did a 25 minute slower warm up as well since I got there early.

Overall, things are going great. I'm planning on reaching my goals by the end of the year. That will give me plenty of time to safetly and slowly lose another 10-15 pounds (not sure which is best yet--depends on bf%). So that will mean it has taken me a year to lose about 30 pounds, but hey, they say slower is better right? I'm not complaining-lol. It will be so wonderful to post my pics--I really can't wait!

That's pretty much it for now. Today should go well nutritionally. I have my regular foods packed and will actually be cooking tonight--it's chicken for a change!

I'll post my meals later!

lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

I've been so busy I haven't had much time to throw things into fitday, especially since I'm eating some new foods. I'll have to get better at that next week to see exactly what I'm eating. Here's what it looks like for today:

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 3.5 Oz Tuna; (forgot oatmeal at home-lol)

MEAL 3: 2 small corn tortillas (60 cals each); 3.5 oz tuna

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 6: 4 oz chicken; either 1 potato, 1 cup brown rice or 1 cup pasta (depends on hubby!)

I will also try and either hop on the elliptical for 30-45 minutes or will take my dog for a walk/jog for the same amount of time. Probably take the dog!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Ok day today. I just finished doing 45 minutes on the elliptical.

We ended up going to dinner last night--we just found a great deal on a new mortgage and used it as a reason to celebrate. I didn't eat bad--just a small steak and potato, but I did treat myself to a glass of wine. Hopefully ti won't kill me too much.

Tomorrow I'll be training back and chest again, which I enjoy. I'm also going to try and get another 1/2 hour of cardio in. Just depends on the time.

Aside from that I'm doing good--just crossing my fingers that I'll see the 120's on Monday, but trying to not make it th eend of the world if I don't (but it's so about time-lol)

:)

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Still nto there-lol. I was at 131 this morning, though with an upset (bloated) tummy. I've been feeling a bit crook all weekend.

I'm not crying yet. I've yet to stay at the 130-131 mark before, I've been battling getting over the 133-132 hurtle. I guess my body just doesn't like to give up its fat, so I guess if I have to do it slow, I'll do it slow.

I am however, going to keep a better record of what I'm eating this week instead of assuming. I have a pretty good idea about calories, but I need an accurat eone. Training is going well, though only 2 more weeks with the trainer. I may have him map out a schedule for me after, I'm not sure yet. I have totally fallen in love with this gym though, but it's a half hour away. Part of me doesn't care, but I'm just worried about crappy winter weather. We'll see. That's still a few months off yet.

So that's where I'm at today. I'm not jumping for joy but I know better than to beat myself up. I guess it really just takes some people awhile. But overall I've now lost over 12lbs and I know my body shape has changed!

Oh well, slowly but surely I guess!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Pretty good day today. Here goes:

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 cup egg noodles; 3 oz lean ground turkey; msh/onions

MEAL 3: 3.5 oz tuna; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Oz TUna; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 6: 4 oz chicken; 1 whole wheat tortilla;1 cup squash

Total Cals: 1300
Protein: 41%
Carbs: 46%
Fat: 14%

I'll also do cardio for 1 hour today. 1/2 on the elliptical and then a brisk 30 minute walk with the dog.

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

MEAL 1: oatmeal

MEAL 3: oatmeal

MEAL 4: oatmeal

MEAL 5: oatmeal

LOL - Got to LOVE oatmeal!! :D

[Ms. Lucy]

lol Emma! I guess it's just easy for me--I eat it dry too!

Looking forward to a great day. Cooked up some foods and I have my shoulders and arms workout tonight. I will also try and do some cardio for 30 minutes or so right after!

I was also just reminded from a thread that I DID starve myself--so as much as I complain about my slow progress, I'm still making progress. It must take your body awhile to finally realize you are actually feeding yourself again and will continue to feed yourself.

I just have to be patient and keep at it. Weight loss ro nor weight loss, I'm still leading a pretty active life!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well this stinks. I got another 2 migraines yesturday--or the same one that never really went away. I had to cancel my training and once again was too medicated and tired to do any cardio (not that my head would take it). This is extremely frustrating. I had gone months without getting them and now I've had them about 10 times in a few weeks. I'm wondering if it the pill, but I had taken that for 2 months before I got these and it's not even duringthe week when the hormones change.

I'm trying so hard to keep a positive attitude with everything going on, and it just sucks that something like this keeps preventing me frm working out!!!

Not to mention my stomach feel horrible from the meds, so I have to force myself to eat a little something.

Arrgh! I better get rid of this today!

[Ms. Lucy]

I'm basically ready to cry. I've had a migraine for 2 days now with no end in sight. I saw the doctor yesturday who pumped me up with more drugs, gave me a new prescription and some steriods to help with the inflamation.

My diet is totally off wack because I can barely eat from being sick and sleeping and everyone at work is looking at my funny becuase no one understands just how bad these things are. I'M NOT MAKING IT UP!

ANyways, I'm on steroids for another 10 days, and I'm praying they will help. But until i can get off my regular medication and my head dies down, I can't do any cardio or weight training.

WHy does this keep happening when I'm just starting to get over a hurdle!

[halo518]

hey ms lucy, hang in there :) I've never had migraines before, but I can totally understand the frustration w/ not being able to workout and the strange looks. You've been working really hard - you're body won't decline overnight, so don't worry. Could be that your body will even thank you for the break. And as for the strange looks - I used to have panic attacks, another one of those things that nobody can really understand unless they have experienced them personally. Which makes it doubly difficult - here you are feeling terrible and everyone thinks you are just being a baby! Just take care of yourself ... I hope you feel better soon!

[Ms. Lucy]

lol--thanks Halo. I used to get panic attacks too!!! Went to the hospital 3x thinking I was about to die. Yeah, talk about some strange responses from the people around you!!

I know my body probably could use a rest, I'm also just concerned about my eating. The medicine I take kills my appetite and I eat sporatically. Yesturday all I had was some chicken soup, a chicken sandwhich (ok, breaded) and small fries (about half). Today I had my egg whites, 1/2 cup oatmeal and a ham sandwich. I"m just not hungry and plain foods kill me as my tastebuds already seem dead.

In a few days I should be ok, I just hope I haven't gained too much weight. I was just at the 130-131 mark and sooooo excited to get to my 120's that this has really dampened my spirit.

I do, however, appreciate the encouraging words and will do my best to use this as some down time (I hate down time).

Thanks again and take care!!

[halo518]

You never know how your body will respond though, so keep your chin up! I was sick a couple weeks ago, for 3 or 4 days. And ALL I felt like was sourdough toast with PB, and chicken soup. That's all I ate for every meal, sometimes 2 pieces of toast at a sitting, with like a TBSP of PB on each piece! I thought my body would give me hell for all those carbs and fat, but I lost a pound every day I was sick! But then of course when I went back to my normal "clean" eating, I put the 4 pounds right back on again :) My point is that it wasn't as bad as I thought. Anyway, I know the medications mess up your appetite and hunger, but usually things have a way of evening out, so don't worry too much. :) (Easy to say coming from someone who worries and stresses over everything!)

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks again Halo--I know you're right. I have just gotten into such a swing with working out my body hates being so sedentary.

On a good note, I've found a new gym--all weights--about 5 minutes from my house that I didn't know was there. The place I've been going with my trainer is 1/2 hour away or more in traffic. I wanted a hard core gym, not a Bally's, and I think this may be it. I'm going to check it out tomorrow. Sucks that I can't do anything as my head is still banging, but at least I'll be IN a gym-lol.

Here's another thought. I started getting migraines when I went on a lower fat diet--10% and less with perhaps a cheat meal every 2 weeks. I'm wondering if I should increase that to 20% as I was never getting them before and that's the only thing I've changed? Maybe I'll ask my doctor when I talk to him.

Anywho, that's all for now. Not much to report as there's not much I'm doing!

Later

[kaylers]

Dear Ms. Lucy,

I also had the problem of headaches when my fat intake was too low. However, I now try to keep it at 20-30%. I also found that eating some more carbs early on in the morning prevented my afternoon headaches. Try mixing up your diet a little bit and see if it helps. I noticed a big overal difference. I also made sure that my consumption of water is always high.
I used to get regular migraines until my massage therapist realized that they were caused by a knot in my back. I know go for regular massages and they are gone. Goodluck, I know the feeling.

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks a lot for the reply--it's nice to know someone knows what I'm talking about!!

I think I will try and up my fat intake to 20% and see what happens. As far as carbs, 40-50% of my daily cals come from carbs including a oatmeal in the morning!

My husband also talked about trying something a bit alternative. I used to see an acupuncturist for migraines and it helped, perhaps the massage would as well.

So thanks for stopping in and giving me some advice--I need all I can get to get rid of this darn migraine!

[Ms. Lucy]

What a week. I had terrible migraines and have been taking so much medicine that I'm unable to exercise. Yesturday, however, was the first day I went without one and was able to do some cardio. I also got my butt up early today and took the dog for a good 1/2 hour walk. I will also be doing kickboxing tonight and hopefully, will get moving into my training again tomorrow. I have a few more sessions with this trainer and then I may be back on my own for a little while! We'll see.

I'm also trying my best to get back to eating well. The steroids I'm taking and regular medication have really messed me up. I'm either not hungry for hours or grabbing everything I can find. Again, hopefully that's something I'll be able to get off soon--but I need to take a few more days of the steroids to keep the inflamation down.

I was pretty bummed this weekend to be honest, as my body doesn't NOT like to workout and I was at such a great point in my progress, but that's life. I'm not weighing myself for a bit as the steroids make you bloated and my eating has not been regular. I'm sure I'm not at 130 anymore, but I also know better than to think i've gain a true 5 lbs or something--again, I just feel bloated.

So hopefully this week will be migraine free--and I'll do my best to track my meals!

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

:(

Arggg... So sorry to hear about your migraine troubles Samantha. I hope your head starts feelings better soon.

Don't get too worked up over your lapse in diet/training. Get well first - then get back to it.

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma--I'm hanging in there--but I hate that medicated feeling--so sluggish and cruddy! I'm still taking a few meds but not as much as last week (and the migraine FINALLY went away)

But it's nice to be eating every few hours again. I also can't wait to go to my class tonight!

Here's my meals for today--I made my favorite vegetable/turkey meatloaf for dinner. It's got a lb of mushrooms, 5 zucchini's, 5 carrots, onion, 1/2 lb of turkey and spices. It ends up having 17 grams of protein, 24 grams of carbs--5 of fiber and 5 grams of fat (1 saturated). Plus, it's so good--even the hubby loves it! I'm also craving a vegetabel stew with chicken and egg noodles--great suggestion from the nutrition board!

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Ground Turkey; 1 cup egg noodles

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Oz Tuna

MEAL 6: 1 slice Vegetable/Turkey Meatloaf

Total Cals: 1434
Protein: 40%
Carbs: 42%
Fat: 18%
Fiber: 21g

Plus I got a good 25 minute walk this morning and will do my hour cardio kickboxing class tonight (only 30 mins of real hard cardio)

And tomorrow I lift---THANK GOD!!!

(hey, on a good note, I've been letting my knee rest a lot so it should be fine to lift again!)

[Ms. Lucy]

ok, so I haven't killed myself this last week! I'm still at 131--but considering the lack of exercise for 1 week, sporatic eating, crazy medication and the fact that I just got my period, I don't think I'm doing too bad. (Darn scale dictating how I feel again, lol, at least it's positive!)

I also found an awesome hair style I'm thinking about having done--as I haven't cut my hair in about a year. My mom is also taking me shopping on Saturday for my birthday. I've been dying to get myself a poncho, so it should be nice.

Origionally I was going to wait to lose the weight before getting the hair done and buying some flattering clothes, but I think now that it's been 8 months and I HAVE lost close to 15 lbs, I deserve a little treat for my efforts. Besides, after another 15lb loss I'll probably still look to lose 1 or 2 more. But I've been doing well, sticking to it for the most part and I'd like to act like I've made a big change. Ok, I won't buy namore pants, because THOSE will change-lol--but I'm wearing an x-small in tops, so I'm going ot let myself go nuts there!

I also start back with training tonight--probably chest/back or possibly legs. I'm extremely excited! I feel like it's been years!

So I guess I'm doing ok considering. I've had a lot of hurdles to say the least, but it will make my weight loss seem so much sweeter!

I'll post my meals later!

(Oh yeah, added 2 cups of popcorn with I can't believe it's not butter topping last night--probably 100 cals)

[Ms. Lucy]

Pretty good day. I can't calculate cals correctly though, as fitday has the wrong infor for ground turkey--it's not lean. But here's what today looks like:

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 1 Slice Vegetable/Turkey Meatloaf

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 oz Ground Turkey; 1 cup egg noodles

I workout this evening so it's difficult to get in another meal as eating too close to my workout makes me sick!

I figure the week evens itself out though!

Aside from that I'm feeling good!

[Ms. Lucy]

Ok, I WILL be in the 120's by my birthday--which is next Tuesday!

Today I was 130/130.5 (crazy scale) and I'm still on the steroids and have my period. It's funny b/c usually the scale is my enemy but now that I'm so insanely bloated from all my medications, it's a relief to see I don't really weigh the 145 lbs that I feel!

Oh YEAH!!! I also made an appointment to get my hair done on Saturday before I go shopping with my mom--I'm so excited. I have real long hair I haven't cur in over a year. It looks like crap. I think it will be so nice--I'm adding a few different highlights--blond, red--hey I'm going to be the big 2-5, so I've got to mark the occassion.

I also had an ok session yesturday--shoulders and arms. I felt funny since it's been a week and I've been doped up everyday but we took it somehwat easy. I have just 2 more sessions left. I was seriously ready to cry about that before, but I think I'm getting ready to workout on my own again. Basically he showed me an awesome program and helped me kick my 134 thing and even with my migraines and such I'll still leave my training somewhere in the 120's (i know it!). TO me, it was totally worth it! Plus, I have found a woman in my area who may be interested in training together--which would be wonderful, but that's not 100%. Either way, I really am excited about not having to drive 30 minutes to this gym for a 2 hour workout and then another 30 minute drive home. Great gym, awesome workouts, but a long way from home. I could basically go to this gym 5 minutes from my house right after work and finish everything and have dinner on the table by the time my hubby gets home (i miss him terribly when I don't get home late). Keep in mind we go to bed around 9:30, so when I wasn't getting home til 9--we didn't see one another. SO yes, I'm excited to get moving with my routine!!!!

Enough rambling, just feeling great today!I have to be in a meeting almost all morning, so I've brought lots of protein powder today to sneak into my coffe cup during my breaks-lol. I just can't go that long without eating!!

Hopefully I can post my meals later!

Lucy

[clc0303]

hey Ms. Lucy... don't mean to butt in but your meatloaf sounds awesome. I make turkey meatloaf a lot and I love zucchini but but bf isn't so excited about it. Do you grind up the veggies for the meatloaf? Can you post your recipe?
thanks!

[Ms. Lucy]

No Problem! I'll put it in the nutrition section tonight or tomorrow. As for the veggies, I actually shred all the veggies I use--it come out nice. The recipe is from a Mayo Clinic/Williams Sanoma book, so it's tasty and healthy!

Ok as for my meals today--I'm doing great aside from the tremendous amount of caffiene I've had--I'm literally shaking! ANyways, here's how it looks!

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 1 Slice Vegetable/Turkey Meatloaf

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 oz Baked Tuna Steak; 1 potato; 1 cup veggies

I'm also going to go to my kickboxing class tonight which will be great!

130 people--It's going to be 120's before my birthday!!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Ya-Who!!!!

129!!!

129!!!

129!!!

Thanks freaking goodness!! I'm soooooo happy right now! Despite having my period and feeling a bit icky from my steroids, I feel awesome!! I'm so totally excited to have FINALLY reached this little turning point. I am just feeling great--and without necessarily getting too far ahead of myself--I can see 125 just over the horizon. I just can't believe it! It's talen me so bloody long to get past that 132-134 point. I'm glad I decided to go with a trainer. Basically he's helped me go from 134 when I started to 129 now and we have one week to go. And THAT"S having a whole week off from migraines, a week of cruddy eating and one terrrible (but deliscious) cheat meal I wasn't supposed to have yet. SO needless to say, I'm totally on a high!

One day at a time!

[Emma-Leigh]

Ya-Who!!!!

129!!!

129!!!

129!!!

Thanks freaking goodness!! I'm soooooo happy right now! Despite having my period and feeling a bit icky from my steroids, I feel awesome!! I'm so totally excited to have FINALLY reached this little turning point. I am just feeling great--and without necessarily getting too far ahead of myself--I can see 125 just over the horizon. I just can't believe it! It's talen me so bloody long to get past that 132-134 point. I'm glad I decided to go with a trainer. Basically he's helped me go from 134 when I started to 129 now and we have one week to go. And THAT"S having a whole week off from migraines, a week of cruddy eating and one terrrible (but deliscious) cheat meal I wasn't supposed to have yet. SO needless to say, I'm totally on a high!

One day at a time!
:jig of joy: YAYAYAYAYAYAY!!! WOO HOOO!!! :jig of joy:

OH MY GOD! You are 129 AND you are bloated by periods and meds!!!!! That is FANTASTIC NEWS!! YES - BLOAT is FANTASTIC NEWS!! Imagine how good you will feel once this disappears!!

1
2
9

1
2
9

Go Samantha!! You deserve to savour EVERY one of those numbers and soon they will be nothing but a memory as well! 125 here here we come!! :D

[Blaney4]

WOW Thats Great! Congrats on the milestone. I had the same trouble breaking the 130 threshold and remember how great it felt to finally see 129. Your journal is a real motivator.

[Ms. Lucy]

Thank you guys so much!!!

I feel so wondeful---and right before my birthday! (I'm treating myself to a new hair style-highlights--and my mom's taking me shopping for some clothes!!)

I just can't believe it took so long!!! Goes to show you, you just have to keep at it--especially when you've messed your metabolism us like mine! I feel so silly getting so depressed at times--what a rollercoaster. Well--125 here I come!

So excited!!!

[Ms. Lucy]

This day just keeps getting better. We had an office lunch--and they actually brought healthy food for a change! I also ran into sometone I haven't seen in a few months who noticed how much weight I had lost right away. Plus, some other coworkers said they noticed it as well and asked what I had been doing!


Oh my gosh--I can seriously taste 120. I know 125 is my next big goal--but I just feel so close--like my body NOW gets what I'm doing. It's taken months and months to lose just 5 pounds and now I feel like working!

I'm going to go to my kickboxing class again tomight. I haven't been in ages and body body pleasantly aches from some of the things I haven't done in awhile!

129!!!!!

Anyways, here's the meals for today:

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 3.5oz Ground Lean Turkey; 1 cup egg noodles; 2 tablsp sauce

MEAL 3: 13 oz Chicken; 1 cup brown rice with beans/veggies; 1/2 pita

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Oz Tuna; 1/2 cup oatmeal

Oh yeah and when I went to my kickboxing (again, it had been a few months) I could tell in the mirror I had lost weight. Usually on certain moves I hated looking at myself because of how I jiggled-lol. ANyways, I was looking pretty darn firm yesturday--If I do say so myself!

LoL--Happy Day!

[ChocoChick]

Woo Hoo! Sorry I haven't been here in a while and missed your milestone. Congrats!!!!! Your hard work is paying off.

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks dbflgirl! I appreciate it!!!

I actually skipped my class last night and did 30 minutes on the elliptical as my knee is acting up again.

I'm also trying to ward off getting sick. My husband has had a cold/flu and the steroids I've been taking for my migraines leave my immunity pretty low--so of course I woke up this morning with a sore throat and head cold--blah!!! I just don't want to be sick for my birthday!! ANyways, I took a multi-vitamin this morning, will take some vitamin C this afternoon and am going to drink a few cups of green tea and then lots of water. If I feel icky this afternoon I may just walk the dog rather than do my kickboxing, but we'll see. Again, it's from the steroids, and while I just have a few more days of them, I can't push myself like I usually would. i just need to make a mental note here to eat my meals every few hours no matter how icky I feel. I want to see 125--but not because I'm sick and dehydrated-lol!

So that's about where I'm at. I don't feel horrible, but it's like at that point where you know you're body is getting sick--kind of achy and clammy. BUt my day is kinda slow today so hopefully I'll be alright!

Post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Definetly Sick! lol. Hopefully it won't last too long!

Meals are so far ok, though I'm losing my appetite. I'll try to eat a little something tonight--even if it's just soup!

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein SHake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 1 Baked potato with ff sour cream; 1 cup broccoli

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: Soup or egg white omlete--probably high fiber cereal (like crunchy things when I feel icky!)

I may walk the dog when I get home but we'll see how I feel. I want to move, but I don't want to push myself either.

[Ms. Lucy]

Going great today!! Weight snuck up over that 130 mark, but I'm not too concerned. I still have this cold/flu thing and another day of the steroids. I did do a great leg workout yesturday--my first since my knee problem--and it went well. My cold thimng is only in my head, so I hope it was ok to train. I have not, however, done any cardio since last week because of being sick, so I'm sure once I get started again I'll get under 129. I also have a family b-day dinner on Wednesday. I'm going to try and be good, but my trainer said it's my b-day and I should enjoy it.

My weekend was great. Got an awesome hair thing that I'm happy with. I have long brown hair and put in some funcky blond and red highlights! It looks awesome! I also went shopping with my mom and bought a cute outfit. It was nice. Now if I could just kick this cold I'd be great!

As for today--we have an office lunch. FOrtunetly we were able to order our meals, so I got a grilled chicken salad with ff ranch dressing. Plus, as I'm going to try and get to my kickboxing class tonight for cardio--or at least do elliptical.

All in all I'm feeling pretty good! We're planning a vacation to Belize in March and I'm joking with my hubby about wearing a thong bikini!--lol. I just can't wait to be fit again and able to show it off!

[Ms. Lucy]

Doing ok so far--despite my cold. I did have a TINY piece of carrot cake, minus the frosting at work (can't help it--it's my favorite-lol). THe rest of the day is very clean though!

MEAL 1: 5 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein SHake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 4 oz grilled chicken; 2 cups salad with tomato; tiny slice carrot cake

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Oz tuna; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 6: 3 oz Chicken; 1 baked potato; 1 cup veggies

I'm going to try and keep some cardio, but I'm feeling a bit sick (carrot cake?). We'll see. I have another training session tomorrow which will be tough so I may rest. ( I can't stop sneezing-lol)

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well, today is my birthday. The big 2-5.

I'm feeling pretty good aside from the fact that I have a cold/flu. I had a hard leg workout on Sunday that probably didn't help my being sick at all, so I went ahead and cancelled my session for tonight--I just need to get better. I'm also ready to get started at my new gym--so I'll need to set up a routine and all.

I also had my b-day dinner cancelled with the family because something came up. The good news is that I won't be cheating-lol. So aside from not being able to exercise much (again-argh), I should be eating well this week.

That's about it. We do have an office lunch for my b-day, but we ordered vietnemese and I got streamed tofu and veggies with no sugar, starch or MSG. SHould be pretty good for me actually. Looking forward to it!

Lucy

[Ivey_Itch]

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!happy Birthday~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[halo518]

:) Happy Birthday!!!!!!! :)

[Emma-Leigh]

:D

Happy Birthday Samantha!

Have a really great day - Gain joy from being healthy, allow yourself to enjoy being you, be proud of your progress and your achievements, relax and most importantly, have fun!!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Guys!!

B-day was nice. I'm still sick, so I did the best I could-lol. I really feel like I need to just calm it down and get better. The pills I was taking specifically said they would weaken your immune system, so I think now that I'm off of them I should rest and focus on getting better. As much as I love working out, that's probably the worst thing I can do right now.

I did end up having a b-day treat. We went and got a burger-lol. I wasn't going to, but figured I'll be eating pretty strict again, so I might as well have a 1/4 century old treat. My weight is still back up to the 130 mark, but I haven't done any exercise, so I'm ok with that. ANother few days and I should be good.

Well that's all for now!!! Just drinking some green tea and trying to get better!

[Ms. Lucy]

Pretty good day, excpet breakfast (felt a bit sick). I'm trying to get back on track with my eating after my little indulgences.

MEAL 1: 1 cup high fiber cereal

MEAL 2: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 3 oz ground turkey; 1 cup pasta; 2 tablsp pasta sauce

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Oz tuna; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 6: 3 oz Chicken; 1 baked potato; 1 cup veggies

I'm starting to feel a little better and think I may do a 1/2 hour on the elliptical and perhaps take the dog for a walk! I hate sitting around--it makes me feel like eating-lol

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well, I'm thinking that I may go ahead and do another session with my trainer. In all honesty I made gains that I've been looking to make for the past 5 months--and that was with one week off because of the migraines and few cheat meals. I might see if I can work something out where I train with him 2x a week (on the weekends) doing legs and chest/back and then do a shoulder/arms workout on my own. By doing this with the 15 sessions he offers, I can get help where I really need help (arms/shoulders is no problem--I have all that equipment at home) and I can drag it out for 2 months. In that time I should hopefully be able to get down to 120--which would be awesome. I realize I CAN do this by myself--but even with my weight going up 1 pound from my b-day cheating I'm getting a bit nervous again, so I think this may help get me down to where my weight is very manageable. The other thing is that we just booked a vacation on March and I remember this happened last year--we booked our Bahamas vacation and I had this dream of losing weight before we left and it never happened. I didn't feel aweful, but I just think I've been making amazing progress and I could definetly go far with another 2 months training. Again, his sessions are usually 2 hours, so you certainly get a huge bang for your buck. And yes, some may not agree with that length of training, but it's done an awesome job for me.

As for the cost, I also recently did some freelance work that would pretty much pay for it--maybe I got that job for a reason!-lol. Anyways, when I seriously think about doing it for another 2 months I get pretty darn excited and I think that's a good thing. Sure it's expensive, but when I think about this emotional rollarcoaster ride I 've been on the past year, and then how great it was to have people notice I'd lost weight--and feel good about the clothes I'm wearing, I think it's worth it. It's not like I'm getting liposuction or something--I'm trying to make myself healthier!

So I'll have to talk to my trainer--see if we can work out a schedule so I can still see my hubby on the weekends (this place is 30 mins away) and make this work. My gosh--120---I can barely imagine it.

****Now I've got myself all worked up and excited!*********

[Ms. Lucy]

Still doing great--just extremely busy!

I will also probably be going to my trainer for another 2 month--2x a week. He says that if we start at 129, we should easily get to 119 by the end with a potential vein in my arm, which I'm dying for! While I know I could do a lot by myself, I'm also crazy at work and it's nice to just not think about what I need to do and just show up and work hard. I do, however, need to work on my diet more. I definetly slipped during my b-day and am feeling the effects. I really need a good week to get back on track. But if I can stick to it for those 2 months, I may actually gte back into my teens!!! Imagine--X-mas as 119. Pretty good motivator.

Hope everyone is well!

Lucy

[hotgymchick]

How tall are you Ms. Lucy?

[Ms. Lucy]

That's strange, I already responded to this but it never showed up-lol!

I'm 5'2 and a half. As I mentioned before (maybe) I think 119-120 is a good weight for me as I was 110-115 throughout high school and college!--again, if that's why you were asking.

So about 10 pounds to go in a bit over 2 months! I think It's doable with my trainer's help (better be at what I'm paying-lol)

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I've been getting another few migraines which really mess me up. I have a new medicine to take which hopefully won't affect me as bad as the one I was taking. However, when I get them, I lose my appetite, can't exercise as it hurts my head and later int the evening end up overeating because I'm sick, bored and upset with myself. This is really getting irritating. I'm going to schedule an appointment with a neurologist today, but probably can't get in until November. I was also contemplating going off bc. The first few months I took it I was fine, but that's the only other thing I've really added into my life that I think could account for these migraines. But whatever it is, these have got to stop--I'm just at a standstill. I mean, I'm still happy with the progress I have made, but have gone right over the 130 mark again and need a good week to get it down and get moving--these migraines aren't helping!!

It stinks!

[Ms. Lucy]

Well it just keeps coming-lol.

I ended up in hospital yesturday as from a bad reaction to my migraine medicine. I now have to wait until I see the doctor on Monday to have it change, which means workouts are in question until then.

I just wish these would go away--I did the whole cat scan which was fine and now I'm getting off bc, in case that's what was contributing to them, but honestly, it's driving me nuts. Just when I start to get somewhere I get sick, or get migraines. Arrgh! I'm trying to keep things in perspective and not get too upset, but I'm missing a ton or workouts and feeling bloated and crappy. I seem to be on meds all the time now and can't workout while I'm on them.

Hopefully the doctor will have something new and exciting to share with me on Monday--some breakthrough treatment. (sigh) We'll see anyways.

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

Arrgggg!! Samantha that is such bad news! :(

Try not to worry too much about your diet and training - just get yourself better first! I hope things start to pick up for you soon...

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma, I'm trying!

I haven't had a migraine in 2 days since I've gone off bc. However, I have terrible cramps and bloating as a result--which I'll take!

On the good side, I got my butt up this morning and was able to jog about 10 minutes and walk 10 minutes. Not much, but just got me moving a little earlier. Weight is at 131, which isn't as bad as I thought considering how messed up my eating has been and I haven't been exercising much--plus I'm probably retaining water. As I said before I need a good healthy week to get back on track. It's frustrating, but part of the process. I'm just crossing my fingers that I'll be done with migraines for a bit and/or that this new medicine works. It's just been too crazy otherwise!

Aside from that i'm doing ok. Did some cooking this weekend and will be doing my best to eat regularly and clean. Hopefully I can post my meals later!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Getting there.

I had another migraine yetsurday, but it was the forst in over 4 days--and I've been pretty stressed and busy these last few days.

I get to start working out now with my trainer on Saturday and Sunday morning. We'll do legs one day and chest/back the other. I'll simply do a shoulder/bi/tri workout during the week. This will give me about 2 months with the trainer and we're working on 119 and a vein in the arm! I think I'm at 130, so that should work. The only major problem I have is with my migraines, because they mess up my eating and make working out impossible, aside from walking, so hopefully they will be fewer and fewer.

My meals have been ok, but could be a bit better. I'm eating every few hours, but ned to include more vegetables and keep better track of calories. Again, it's just been crazy these past few days.

Hopefully this weekend will be a good start on the second half of my goals! I feel pretty good about myself but still have a few more pounds to go!

[Ivey_Itch]

Hope you get to feeling better! You'll be at your goals in no time! You've done so great already! Just keep up the great work!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Ivy!!--I appreciate the encouragement!

[Ms. Lucy]

Still hanging in there. Actually no migraines for a bit. I also had 2 great workout sessions this weekend and will be doing cardio this afternoon. I'm also looking at my nutrition more and while I'll stick to my 1500 cals or so, I'm going to up my fat intake to at least 20%. My trainer is great but he's not a nutritionist, and while a low fat was popular awhile ago, I believe there are a ton of benefits in EFA's and I miss my salmon!! I also think that's one of the reasons why I was overeating. So I'll keep to my 40-50% Carbs, 30-40% Protein and 20% fat.

I'm also doing legs on Saturday, Back/Chest/Abs on Sunday--both with the trainer, and then shoulders one day during the week on my own and one day bi/tri also on my own. I'm also going to try and get in 30-45 minutes of cardio 6x a week--first thing in the morning if I can. I've been off the pill for a bit now and really hoping that was the cause of my migraines--we'll see!

I'm still around my 130 mark and am going to forget the scale for a bit. I figure it will take a bit to get on track and I don't need to worry about weight right now--just getting better and into my routine. The weight loss will come.

That being said--we've scheduled our Easter vacation--BELIZE! And this year I AM wearing a skimpy bikini! So while I have awhile--I am making it my mission to be 115-120 by that time--which should be fine--migraines and all!

I really did fall off the wagon with these migraines--ate horrible, took terrible meds and went back to my bad habit of having a drink (or three) because I felt like I wasn't getting anywhere--of course that hindered me even more. So enough of that--I have new medicine and a much better attitude (and more training sessions!!). I'm really looking forward to seeing some new changes!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Great Day--also my hubby's b-day. I got him a certificate to go skydiving!

Meals are also back on track--and I'm going for a walk/jog this afternoon for an hour.

Here's how meals look:

MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 3.5 oz Tuna; 2 cups salad w/ carrots, balsalmic dress; 2 cups broccoli

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 6 oz Swordfish Steak; 1 serving mini potatoes; 10 asparagus spears; mushrooms & Onions

I really have to get back to keeping track of calories, but I'm extremely busy! Hopefully I can do that sometime this week!

Any suggestions appreciated--trying to revamp my program for my second stage of weightloss!!! :)

Lucy

[JLB04]

Hi Lucy,

I just wanted to say "hi" since I have recently joined the forums...I really enjoy reading your journal everyday. Wish me luck and I know you'll obtain your bikinni goal :)

[Ms. Lucy]

Hi Jenny!

Thanks and good luck!

The forums have definetly helped me! It's nice to get feedback and encouragement when you need it--as this can be a struggle at times!

Let me know if you need anything!

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

Good to see you back on track Samantha!!! Diet looks good as always. :D

I think adding a little more fat back in would be healthy - and if your body is saying it wants a little more fat then listen to it!

As for ways to re-vamp your program?? Well - could try carb cycling.. Could also try a different form of training split/ different types of training?

What were you thinking?

[Ms. Lucy]

Hi Emma!

I was just worried about my diet. I'm happy with my trainer and will stick with our workouts for another 2 months when my sessions end. He's great, but I don't totally disagree with his nutritional suggestions--he's a little old fashioned there. He says protein is most important after training (doesn't mention carbs) and wants a strict low fat diet. Problem is, I was prone to binging with too little fat--so I bumped it from 10% to 20%. I guess I just need to make sure I'm doing the right thing--and that carbs are essential post workout!! I've gone back and forth with doing carb rotation--not sure it's for me. Right now I'm trying to get between 1500-1700 cals with 30-40% Protein, 40-50% Carbs and 20% fat. I'm pretty sure that's good for me!

Workouts however are great and he's definetly tops there. Nothing extraordinary in terms of what we're doing, but he has the ability to push me way beyond what I was doing before and I think that matters most! We workout on Saturday and Sunday and I train alone for bi/tri and shoulders during the week which I have no problem with!

Cardio is also getting better. Yesturday, after reading a post here, I decided to try jogging again (I'd love to be able to jog a few miles). I actually walked/jogged for a total of 50 minutes and I swear 20 minutes was jogging (ok, 2-10 minute jogs). But I can't remember the last time I did it. All I really needed to do was SLOW DOWN. I was running too fast before and getting winded. SOmeone could probably walk much faster thanI was jogging--but hey, I was still jogging!!! I am going to try and do that 3x a week--I think I'll evenually be able to go a few miles!

ANyways, that's about it. I'm pretty much feeling fantastic--eating better and have not had a migraine in about a week--thank god! SO no complaining here. Still at 130--no worries!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

I will have to push my weights back to tomorrow--as I have an apt tonight and hate lifting late. I'm actually going to go for another jog with the puppy--I really enjoyed it last night. Leaves are beautiful and it gave me some quiet time to think.

Meals are great today!! I actually added a salad last night because I was still hungry--which was nice!

Here's how today looks:

MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 1 sliceTurkey/Veggie Meatloaf; 1 cup broccoli

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 1 cup Turkey/Veggie Meatloaf (packed with veggies); 10 asparagus spears

MEAL 6: (if hungry) 2 Cups salad mix with chopped carrots, black olives and lite balsalmic dressing (50 cals for 2tablsp)

Exercise: 30-45 Minutes Walk/Jog

Feeling great today--still amazes me why we get cravings for foods that make us feel crappy. You'd think we'd learn after 1 time!!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

I feel fantastic today! I went running again yesturday and was out for a total of 45 minutes and at least 30 of that was jogging!! I stopped once to run to the bathroom--but ran again right after!!I'd love to go again tonight, but I have to train my arms and I also need some good running shoes, as my shins were already bothering me with the crappy old ones I was wearing!

Diet is also going well, just takes a few days to get on track. Also back down to 129.5. That means I'll be starting my new sessions with my trainer at 129 with the end goal of 119 and a vein in the arm!!That reminds me, I'm due for new pictures!!

I also think that the migraines were from the pill, as I have only had 1 since I went off of them. Stinks in one way, but overall I really can't complain! Hopefully it's back to steady training from now on!

Gosh it is good to be back on track and not depressed and sluggish!

Lucy

[JLB04]

I am glad you are feeling "GREAT" - keep it up!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks!

Today's meals are great! I'm going to do a shoulder/bi/tri workout today and take my dog for a 30 minute walk. I'd love to job, but don't want to overdue it. I'll try a longer session again tomorrow!

Here's how today looks:

MEAL 1: 1 egg, 2 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 1 sliceTurkey/Veggie Meatloaf

MEAL 4: Protein Shake; 1/2 Cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 oz tuna; 1 baked potato

MEAL 6: Large salad with 4oz grilled chkn; broccoli/cauliflower; carrots, black olives and lite balsalmic dressing.

Exercise: 45 Minute Shoulder/bi/tri workout
30 Minute Walk Dog

I'm going to get some running shoes this weekend and hopefully a heart rate monitor and one of those mileage tracking things--I'd love to know how far I ran the other day!

[Ms. Lucy]

Still doing well. I had a nice shoulder/bi/tri session yesturday, but think I may do shoulders one day and bi/tri another. I skipped cardio since I have been doing so much, but will jog 45 minutes this afternoon. Diet is also going well and I've been eating clean. Overall, things are going well and I'm looking forward to my next set of changes!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

I think I'm going to give carb cycling a try with Ivey Itch! After reading a few articles and listening to Ms. Fit and Emma both say it's a good program I think I'm pretty convinced it will help me reach my next set of goals. Honestly I really haven't changed up my eating much in almost a year--so long as I now it's not ketogenic and I won't regain the weight with normal (not over) eating, I'm pretty happy. My week has been insane, so I'm hoping to start this weekend possibly Friday and go from there. I was also thingking, although the no carb day it rough, it will at least make me eat more vegetable!! I've been terrible with that lately!!

Anyways, I'm excited--I like trying new things and having a trainer has done so much that perhaps the right eating plan (or a new one) along with the trainer will help me get to where I need to go!

Belize will be here before I know it!

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

Hey Samantha!

Good news about the carb cycling! It is always interesting to try new things to see how your body responds.

Good luck with it - what program are you going to do?

**edit** Gosh I am blind sometimes! I just saw that you are going to be doing the same cycle as Ivey! Yay - That is an excellent program!!! It spells it out pretty clearly in the outline but if you want any advice setting up your days just ask. :)

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma!

Yea, I'm doing the Twin Peaks plan, but on a different schedule than Ivey! I just want to make sure that it's healthy and not a quick fix type of thing--though it doesn't seem like it! Also, I'm going to do 3 days no carb, 2 high and 2 low--with a 4 day split like this: (hoping 3 no carb days is ok--not excessive)

Saturday: Legs (High Carb)
Sun: Back/Chest (Low Carb)
Mon: None (No Carb)
Tues: Bi/Tri (High Carb)
Wed:Non (No Carb)
Thurs: Shoulder (Low Carb)
Friday: None (No Carb)

I'm not sure where to put cardio yet. Also, he suggests a small piece of fruit (50-100 cals) with each carb meal, so I have to figure out some good, but small choices.

Luckily, I'll have Ivey to chat with for support and ideas--she's already made such great progress.

HOwever, I'll be listing my meals (not cals though) and it would be great if you could just look at the first few--as again, I want to make sure I'm being healthy!! Also, Twin Peaks said that even without much cardio, you can expect a 1lb loss a week. Is is bad to have that expectation? I',m hoping because it's so new from what I've done it will work, but I'm not sure.

I'm trying to start today with low carb--though got off on the wrong food by missing breakfast-lol. Go figure--and I never miss breakfast.

But I'm excited about this--migraines have subsided, feeling healthy and ready to PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE lose another 10 pounds! We'll see!

Thanks Emma! ---oh (one more thing) do you happen to know if there are any studies or articles explaining why this works?? I only found testimonials.

[Emma-Leigh]

I just want to make sure that it's healthy and not a quick fix type of thing--though it doesn't seem like it! Also, I'm going to do 3 days no carb, 2 high and 2 low--with a 4 day split like this: (hoping 3 no carb days is ok--not excessive) I think it is a good program for weight loss - and the beauty is that you get to still eat your carbs which means you do not get too 'brain fuzzy', especially if you put your no-carb days the day after high carb days.

As you are used to lots of carbies I would initially try it with 2 no carb days and then see how you go, but if you are not getting results then swap to 2 high, 2 low, 3 no.


Saturday: Legs (High Carb)
Sun: Back/Chest (Low Carb)
Mon: None (No Carb)
Tues: Bi/Tri (High Carb)
Wed:Non (No Carb)
Thurs: Shoulder (Low Carb)
Friday: None (No Carb)

Hmmm - looks ok, but I would put the high carb days on your big workout days. Legs is good, although I am not convinced arms warrants a high carb day (unless you are really trying to build your arms). You might be wasting this high carb day on such a small muscle group... Would you be able to swap things around so your back/chest workout was on a high carb day too?

I would also not do legs the day after a no-carb day (unless you were doing it late enough in the day that you had already re-fueled somewhat)... You need carbies for leggies..


I'm not sure where to put cardio yet. Also, he suggests a small piece of fruit (50-100 cals) with each carb meal, so I have to figure out some good, but small choices.
Although you do not need to do cardio I would do 2 or 3 sessions and you can do on Low or No carb days (I would stick to low intensity on no carb and moderate intensity on low carb)...

As for fruit - small apples, half a pear, stone fruit (like a peach or nectrine) all work well. I like apples.


However, I'll be listing my meals (not cals though) and it would be great if you could just look at the first few--as again, I want to make sure I'm being healthy!!
Not a problem :)


Also, Twin Peaks said that even without much cardio, you can expect a 1lb loss a week. Is is bad to have that expectation? I',m hoping because it's so new from what I've done it will work, but I'm not sure.
I think that most people vary in what they can loose - but you do get good results if you follow the plan correctly (which means no carb days are hard but high carb days are fun!!)... No carb days with only 1.5g/pound of protein + some fats + vegetables is really going to be testing!


oh (one more thing) do you happen to know if there are any studies or articles explaining why this works?? I only found testimonials.
The diet is based on psychological and physiological aspects involved in dieting.

Psychologically it allows you to endulge every few days and therefore helps you 'stay mentally sane' in terms of dietry restriction.

Physiologically the high carb days help maintain your leptin levels, help boost and maintain your metabolism, re-fuel glycogen so you fuel your workouts, maintains serotonin levels (for sanity and your mood more than anything) and help decrease the cortisol rise associated with dieting.

But, at the end of the day, it comes down to how all diets work - it is creating a calorie deficiency...

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma!!

I'll have to review my plan this week and see where I can move things around. Unfortunetly, I am with my trainer Sat and Sun and prefer to do legs and chest/back with him and do shoulder/arms on my own, since I can push myself well there. He's also 1/2 hour away, so it's too hard to get out there during the week since I go to bed so early!!

Just to try it, I'm going with no carbs today, then high tomorrow and low on Sunday. I'm curious how the no carb day will go. I already had a 2 egg/3egg white omlet for breakfast with mushrooms, red pepper, green pepper, onions and black olives. Also, the weight is at 132, I guess my starting point. However, I recently had to drop the birth control (2 weeks ago) b/c of the migraines and have been feeling a bit off--tired, crampy but no period, and such. But to take some responsibility as well, I was talking to someone yesturday who mentioned that they have a cycle of getting the weight down, then rewarding themselves with food, gaining weight and then spending the next few weeks getting back to the place they were a month ago. I think that fits me to a tee. I really need to do better. I think here I can deal with the strict days, but as you said, you get a type of "reward" so hopefully it will help a bit. I also agree with starting out with 2 no carb, even though I really just want to do 3. But that's my all or nothing mentality.

ANyways, thanks again for taking the time to answer my questions. I'm always so reluctant to try new things--even when what I'm doing is not working. My trainer would also probably scould me. He's old fashioned when it comes to dieting and wanted me on a low fat diet with minimal cals. It sounded good, but was too strict for me and lead me to want to binge (and actually do so a few times!). So I'll go ahead and give this a try. I've made zero progress (just in terms of weight) this past month!

And I have to buy fruit tonight--gosh I miss fruit--wasn't allowed in my other plan!

BTW--Tyler is dressing up as Zorro tonight for her first little costume party--I'll have to post a picture! (yea, I know Zorro is a guy, but it's so darn cute!)

[Ivey_Itch]

Hey Girl! Good luck on your first NO carb day.... I'll be joining you tomorrow! Bell Peppers and Mushrooms.. darn! Why didn't i think of that.. i went to Sam's last night and stocked up on romaine lettuce and spinach.. oh yeah.. i got some tangerines and frozen strawberries for the fruit...i've got a few apples here at the house.. I bought a HUGE bage of Corn and one of peas too.. lol.. i'm ready for the High Carb Days! Since it's the beginning of the cycle for me tomorrow I might do Low, No, High, and then after the high stick with my original plan. Not sure yet..the other option is No, Low, High. I'd like to put the no before the High day..i think I would feel less guilty eating on the high day then..i'll probably do it that way. (just for this weekend!) I weighted this morning.. knowing I shouldn't have.. and I was up 2.5lbs.. i'm at 135.5.. but i know why.. I missed a cardio session, didn't limit my sodium intake (like I normally do before I weigh), and let's just say.. fiber hasn't been working well! lol
Just think...it will be High Carbs for you tomorrow!! ;) Good luck! Your going to do great!

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Ivey--let me know how you go!

So far so good with the diet. Here's how it looked:

MEAL 1: 2 eggs; 3 egg whites; mushrooms, onion, red/green peppers, black olives (22 grams protein)

MEAL 2: 1.5 Serving Protein Shake (30g Protein)

MEAL 3: Cajun Chicken Salad with oil/vinegar dressing (25g protein)(2nd fat meal, but light dressing)

MEAL 4: 1 Protein Shake; 3 egg whites (30g protein)

MEAL 5: 5 oz Salmon (25g protein?); 20 asparagus

MEAL 6: Protein Shake (20g protein) (going to party, bringing shake)

Total Protein:152 Grams

I have to buy some fruit tonight! Oh and corn sounds great too, I haven't had corn in ages!!

Tomorrow is High Carb. I'm not fiending now, so we'll see. It's 4-6 meals contain carbs + 50-100cals fruit. I'll probably have 1/2 apple or pear for the fruit, so an apple and pear for the day.

Man, I had my salad at 1:00--it's now 4 and I'm still full, not sure if you should just eat anyways, or wait--I feel like I should get all my meals in, but I'm not sure. I'll probably be hungry in a half hour!

oh, and I keep forgeting about my fish oil capsules--they're in my bag!!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Happy Halloween!!

SO far carb cycling is going great. I decided to weigh myself after my first no carb day to start and was 130.5. So of course I also weighed myself this morning to see how a high carb day would affect me and it was 129.5. It's probably all weird monthly got-off-my-pill stuff, but 129 is the lowest I've been (way back in the beginning of the month) so it will be nice to see that go down.

I'm actually enjoying the challenge and variety of this plan. Before it was the same thing everyday, whereas I feel like I have a bit more to choose from--even if that sounds weird. I have also already had a work lunch and family dinner that feel right into the plan, and that's always a plus. Also, we're alllowed 2 higher fat meals if we want, so I can have olive oil and vinegar dressing or a steak in the evening. So I really do feel like I'm able to eat more than I was eating before--oh and I love having fruit again!

Weekends are hard to track my meals as I'm always on the go, but I'll get back to it tomorrow. Today is low carb and tomorrow will be no carb, so I'll post it then.

Anyways, that's about it. I'm off to do a workout, and may walk later this afternoon or do a bit of elliptical. I don't want to do crazy amounts of cardio but it's been a few days since I've done any at all!

Anyways, have a great Halloween everyone--just keep away from the candy!

Lucy

[Ivey_Itch]

Hey! Sounds like your doing good! I had my first no carb day yesterday, and I wasn't hungry a bit! Today is a low carb day and I feel like i'm starving! haha.. that ok though.. tomorrow is a High carb day! I haven't weighted yet, i'll probably do it after my next no carb day.. i'm hoping that BF monitor will be in by then! Happy Halloween!! I too feel like i'm getting to eat "more".. steak is nice..i used to avoid red meat like the plauge! and My mom was excited that she could cook for me for thanksgiving! haha.. (told her turkey's good..and just some plain veggies for me and a sweet tater!.. i'm going to make that a high carb day! .. then i gotta go eat at the in-laws too, so that will probably be one of the protein only meals..it will be nice to eat with everyone instead of looking all stuck up! And tonight..if we all eat out, i can too!!!!! Keep up the great work!!!
-Kim

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey Ivey,

Hi think that if we're strict and doing well with the carb cycling, we should be able to eat what we want on Turkey-day. In fact, it will probably be a good treat for the body. I know they always say that after "dieting" for a bit it's good to throw in a high cal/higher fat meal or two and then get right back to it. So for me, I'm going to follow this the best I can until Turkey Day (we still have 4 weeks) and then enjoy my turkey first and then a bit of stuffing and mash potatoes. I'll keep the portions small, but I will actually be cooking everything this year and I plan on trying it all! I'm really hoping to be at 125 then, but we'll see. I really should get my body fat tested! I have calipers, but never feel like I'm doing it correctly. We'll see. But so far, I agree with Emma, that it's psychologically rewarding. I felt like no carb days were mean to be a challenge and high carb days are a treat, but one you're supposed to have! Today is low for me and tomorrow is another no carb day!

Tonight we're going out to dinner, whch is a Halloween tradition. We don't do candy and such (I know, we're horrible!) and I feel guilty staying home so we go out!! I'll probably get a steak and some veggies.

Later!

[Emma-Leigh]

So far so good with the diet. Here's how it looked:

MEAL 1: 2 eggs; 3 egg whites; mushrooms, onion, red/green peppers, black olives (22 grams protein)

MEAL 2: 1.5 Serving Protein Shake (30g Protein)

MEAL 3: Cajun Chicken Salad with oil/vinegar dressing (25g protein)(2nd fat meal, but light dressing)

MEAL 4: 1 Protein Shake; 3 egg whites (30g protein)

MEAL 5: 5 oz Salmon (25g protein?); 20 asparagus

MEAL 6: Protein Shake (20g protein) (going to party, bringing shake)

Total Protein:152 Grams

Looks great so far Samantha!! I would have aimed for a little more protein (6 meals of 30g so you were up around the 180g mark would have been better) and make sure you are definately hitting your healthy fats (~15g per fat meal). Otherwise it looks great!

Also, remember that the green vegetables (at this stage) do not have to be only one cup per serve - you can have lots more and the only reason you really need to limit them is if your progress stalls.

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma!

I'm really going to try and focus on that this week. I'm so used to certain portions, it's sometimes difficult to eat so much protein in one serving. I also have to push myself to get up early, because if I miss an early meal, I have a hard time making up for it. I may actually get some bars for the weekend, so before my workout I can eat it rather than waking up early and making eggs and oatmeal!

So thanks! I'm going to try and write all my meals down this week--but the weekend went well!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

I'm going to figure these out in fitday later, but here's how I look so far. No Carb Day:

MEAL 1: 2 eggs; 3 egg whites; mushrooms, onion, red/green peppers, black olives (22 grams protein)

MEAL 2: 1.5 Serving Protein Shake (30g Protein)

MEAL 3: 2 Turkey Patty's; salad with carb free light ranch dressing (no oil/vinegar) (48g protein)

MEAL 4: 1.5 Protein Shake (30g protein)

MEAL 5: 5 oz Roast SHoulder of Beef; carrots, zucchini, squash (?g protein?); 20 asparagus

MEAL 6: Not sure yet

Total Protein: Fill in later


Crazy Day!

[Ms. Lucy]

Crazy Elections!


Anyways, low carb day! Tomorrow is no carb and Thursday High. That way I'm pretty well fueled for the hard lifting weekend. Low Friday, High Sat and low Sun. Here's today!

MEAL 1: 1 egg; 4 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal (21 grams protein)

MEAL 2: 1.5 Serving Protein Shake (30g Protein)

MEAL 3: 2 Turkey Patty's; salad with carb free light ranch dressing (no oil/vinegar) (25g protein)

MEAL 4: 1.5 Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal (33g protein)

MEAL 5: Tuna; Baked Potato (25g Protein)

MEAL 6: Turkey Burger; Salad (25g Protein)

Protein 159g

I also went on the elliptical for 30 minutes. Thursday (h.c.) I will be doing shoulders/bi/tri. I'm trying to get to fitday, but today has been crazy. Same with the fruit, I forgot to grab some today--will tomorrow!

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

Hey Samantha!


Anyways, low carb day!.... Here's today!
MEAL 1: 1 egg; 4 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal (21 grams protein)
MEAL 2: 1.5 Serving Protein Shake (30g Protein)
MEAL 3: 2 Turkey Patty's; salad with carb free light ranch dressing (no oil/vinegar) (25g protein)
MEAL 4: 1.5 Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal (33g protein)
MEAL 5: Tuna; Baked Potato (25g Protein)
MEAL 6: Turkey Burger; Salad (25g Protein)
Protein 159g
Hmmm...??? Where is the fruit Samantha?? Can't have carb rotation without the fruit? (oh... wait... just saw you do not have any... ok... you are forgiven ;) ).

And keep on working on getting that protein a tiny bit higher too!! I know it seems like a lot compared to what you are used too, but it will help in the long run! And how much fats are in that day? I can't see all that many, especially your polyunsaturated fats. Have you thought about fish-oil capsules? (Gosh I am a pain sometimes arn't I!) :D


Thursday (h.c.) I will be doing shoulders/bi/tri. Ahhh... Combined the arms and shoulders day - is this how you solved the high-carb day problem!? Good idea!

What does your rotation look like now?

[Ms. Lucy]

Hi Emma,

Yes I know (sigh) Fruit and fish oil! You're right about the protien, I feel like I'm eating a ton--though I added another egg this morning! ANyways, here's how the new split looks:

Sat: High (legs)
Sun: Low (chest/back)
Mon: No
Tues: Low
Wed: No
Thurs:High (SHoulders/arms)
Fri: Low

I know my 2 High days are kind of close, but I do my strenuous exercises then , so thought it was appropriate. I'm also going to try and do two cardio sessions on Tuesday and Friday, perhaps just walk on no carb days--to do something.

Also, I have fish oil capsules, 1000mg, how many should I take each day?

So far I feel good, and enjoy the rotation, but it does feel like a ton of food on high carb days, but I'm sure it will only take a bit for my body to adjust, like with eating 6 smaller meals. But yesturday I got 150g of protein.

Anyways, let me know. In the meantime, I'm going to take one fish oil capsule, since I had 2 whole eggs this morning, and figure that's ok. For my 2nd meal, I'm having 2 protein shakes (scoops) so, 40g protein and will probably take 2 fish oil capsules.

Also, is it ok to drink a protein shake for 2 of my meals as I've been doing?

SO many questions!

[Ivey_Itch]

Hey! I can't help you on some of those questions, but he did say you could have a shake for as many meals as you wanted. When I'm in a hurry, that's my meal ;)

[Ms. Lucy]

SHOOT! I didn't read my labels real well. My protein powder has 5g carbs--so that makes 20 for a day--Is that bad?

Here's how it looks:

MEAL 1: 2 egg; 4 egg whites + 1 Fish oil Capsule

MEAL 2: 2 Serving Protein Shake + 2 Fish Oil Capsules

MEAL 3: 1 Turkey Patty's; 2 cups broccoli

MEAL 4: 2 Protein SHakes + 2 Fish Oil Capsules

MEAL 5: Tuna; Salad

MEAL 6: 4oz Salmon; 1 cup Green Beans

Cals: 1221
Fat: 32g
Carbs: 41g
Protein: 189

20 of the carbs were from the protein powder. Should I eliminate those on no carb days and replace with chicken or tuna? Hummmmm......and cals seem high for no carb day?

[Emma-Leigh]

Sat: High (legs)
Sun: Low (chest/back)
Mon: No
Tues: Low
Wed: No
Thurs:High (SHoulders/arms)
Fri: Low
Looks fine - but those 4 days of Low/No might get hard... So monitor how you do. You might have to think of something else if it is too icky.


Also, I have fish oil capsules, 1000mg, how many should I take each day?
6 caps a day would be a good start and spread them out through the day for the best results.


Also, is it ok to drink a protein shake for 2 of my meals as I've been doing?
Hmmm.. I like real food better and try to stick to this at all costs, but if you can not do it then a protein drink would be fine. If possible, go with a combination protein (not just whey isolate) - so a soy/egg/casein/whey concentrate or a blen would be better.

If not, try to add something to it to help delay digestion - so some vegetables + fats or some vegetables + carbs (add some oats to the shaker bottle as well so you can easily chow down on it).


Also - Your diet today looked good. I would increase fats (As with Ivey, something closer to 40g would be much more appropriate)... Add nuts/linseeds or more fishies to your fat meals (they should have 10-15g of fats in them!).

As for the protein powder - it should not be too much of a problem, but maybe take a look around and see what you can find in terms of low carb products.

[imperfectly_lou]

Hey Samantha!

Good news about the carb cycling! It is always interesting to try new things to see how your body responds.

Good luck with it - what program are you going to do?

**edit** Gosh I am blind sometimes! I just saw that you are going to be doing the same cycle as Ivey! Yay - That is an excellent program!!! It spells it out pretty clearly in the outline but if you want any advice setting up your days just ask. :)

Just wondering, I understand you two are carb cycling, but is it a particular written program you are following? Can anyone give me a link?

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Emma--I think you're right about the foods. When work gets a bit slower in the next week or so I'll try to bring in more real foods--and incorporate more fats. Just feels weird since I've been limiting my fats! But I'm taking my fish oil capsules today!

Lou, BOth Ivey and I are following the Twin Peaks Carb CYcling plan. GO to the articles section here and just type "Twin Peaks Carb Cycling" and it will be the first entry. This is only my first week and so far I like the variety in days.

Of course today will be hell. I have a commercial shoot this morning an hour away and then a photo shoot 2 hours in the opposite direction this evening--so I'll be downing those protein shakes today, but since it's high carb day I also have FRUIT and oats with me!

Later,

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

Just wondering, I understand you two are carb cycling, but is it a particular written program you are following? Can anyone give me a link?

Hey Lou - Click here:
http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/par30.htm

[Ms. Lucy]

SO far this week has been really challenging. I got my first period after being on the pill for about 6 months and I feel like everything has been extremely exaggerated--moods, fatigue, cramps. Poor hubby-lol. The carb cycling is going ok--however, the fatigue on no carb days is a bit much right now. I guess some people it bothers, others not so much. But at about 3-4 my mind gets incredibly muddled. It could simply be this week, but I will honestly have to keep on eye on it, as my job doesn't get done well with that kind of fatigue. The other thing I've noticed is that I feel guity on high carb days and "better" on no carb days. I understand why, but I've never been a no-carb kinda gal, so it's interesting. As far as the weight goes, I feel fantastic, however, once again, these past two weeks have not been the best for stepping on the scale! So I'll have to wait another week.

As for training, my chest was KILLING from Sunday which is fantastic. I'm training shoulders, bis and tri today and will walk with the puppy. Last night I went on to kickboxing which helped get some of this aggression out!

All in all, I'm ok, but going off the pill kind of threw me a bit. I originally went on it to get rid of severe PMS, yet had to get off of it because of migraines. I suppose a week of moodiness beats everyday migraines though!! --so I'm trying not to complain!

Have a great day!

Lucy

[Emma-Leigh]

Hey Samantha?? Are you there??

You have gone somewhat silent lately. I miss talking to you and reading your journal! :(

I hope all is going well, both with training/diet and with life in general.

Come back soon....

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey,

It's been awhile, but I've just been in a crappy place lately. Much was probably with my period, but I'm not sure. I had to take a few days off the carb rotation, because I was simply too fatigued (which normally happens during this time). Work has also been crazy.

I haven't stepped on a scale in awhile and am beginning to wonder if I should as often as I do--though I know the answer to that question. Unfortunetly, the other night, I had gone a LONG time without eating because of several meetings I had to take part of but didn't know until last minute. By the time I got home, my hubby had ordered a pizza, thinking I'd be awhile. Of course, I just dug in--4 slices. That's honestly no surprise to me, cause that happens when I don't eat regularly. HOWEVER, afterwards I felt worse than I ever had about eating it--and was a step away from just running to the bathroom--which freaked me out. I'm definetly getting a bit crazy--so I just took a little break--eating several times a day, healthy meals, but not necessarily counting every gram of protein or calories--or eating at a set, specific time. Right now, I'm better, but still in that "I haven't accomplished anything mood" though I know I have. My legs and butt have really firmed up, but I can't seem to convince myself enough--and I'm still too embarrassed to put up photos here. It's also setting in that it's now almost been 1 year since I started this endeavor--I have another vacation coming up in the spring and just wonder if I'll end up the same--setting all these goals and accomplishing none of them. I'm also second guessing myself to death over my diet. My trainer (as old fashioned as he is) suggests a low fat diet--not even fish oil, and I tend to binge on those and feel deprived. I liked the notion of the carb cycling, but wonder if the fatigue was related to that or to my cycle and going off bc. Of course now I'm rereading reviews on the south beach diet and all this other nonsense, knowing that I simple need to follow SOMETHING. I do, however want to be heathy and somewhat normal. Can you eat 3 "larger" meals and snack on fruit and walnuts inbetween or should you always have a protein and carb. I also used to eat all these natural foods--tofu and tempheh and deliscious recipes and feel like I've gotten into this rut of 6 meals a day with 2 protein shakes, turkey patty and crazy amounts of oatmeal. It's fine for now--but I ultimetly want to be able to eat real foods--and meals. I can't remember the last slice of whole wheat bread I've had. Honestly, I don't want my life to be a cycle of what I've gone through the past year. Next to regular people I eat great, but have made little progress. SO am I suppose to accept being 130? I'm EXTREMELY concerned that my body has some set point now and won't go down. So honestly, I just don't know. I really like the carb rotation, and want to go back to it, but I just keep second guessing wheather or not it will work--and while I'm not making much progress, I'm scared I'll gain more trying this.

SO yeah, I guess I haven't written in awhile-lol. Didn't mean to vent for so long. I just feel so consumed by my weight and feel it's not healthy. Yet it means so much for me to be in good shape. On a slightly bright side, I did have a great heart to heart with my husband. He agreed to help me get up in the morning and go for a 30 minute brisk walk. I'm sure it's sort of cardio, but I want to do it more as a way to create a healthy morning routine---a nice walk, sitdown breakfast and talk to my husband. We're just normally so frantic in the morning. I think as well, the sense of accomplishment from getting up will help my moods. I really want to enjoy my vacation with my husband, and feel like I will be miserable if I'm too embarrassed to get in a bikini.

Anyways, again, I hate venting and being so down, but it's just been a rough few days. I just need a stern point in the right direction and need to follow it. I'll probably go back to carb cycling tomorrow and will do my best to track things for awhile to make sure I'm doing it right. I'll try to follow it for 1 month and see what happens. I'd be too scared to go longer with no results--so I'll have to take pictures and keep in touch with Ivey. Today I'll hopefully be doing my bi/tri workout, but my car also just broke down, so hopefully I can get home and get it in on top of the 800 other things I have to do today!!

To sum it all up, I just wish I could be happier about my progress sometimes.

[Ms. Lucy]

I suppose I could b*tch some more, but that never gets me anywhere. I just ate healthy today instead:

MEAL 1: 1 egg; 4 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 Serving Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal; pear

MEAL 3: 1 Slice Turkey/Vegetable Meatloaf; Baked Potato

MEAL 4: 1 Protein Shake;1/2 cup oatmeal; 1/2 grapefruit

MEAL 5: 4 oz Broiled Tuna; 2 cups veggie mix (corn, red pepper, broccoli)

+ 4 Fish Oil Capsules

Cals: 1558
Fat: 23g~14%
Carbs: 219g~49%
Protein: 1369 ~37%
Fiber 36g

EXERCISE: 45 Minutes Elliptical

Until I figure out the best thing to do for now, I'm sticking to my regular plan, 1500-1700 cals around 40/40/20 plan or similar. Tomorrow I train legs with the hubby. Trainer is out of town.

[JLB04]

I suppose I could b*tch some more, but that never gets me anywhere. I just ate healthy today instead:

MEAL 1: 1 egg; 4 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 Serving Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal; pear

MEAL 3: 1 Slice Turkey/Vegetable Meatloaf; Baked Potato

MEAL 4: 1 Protein Shake;1/2 cup oatmeal; 1/2 grapefruit

MEAL 5: 4 oz Broiled Tuna; 2 cups veggie mix (corn, red pepper, broccoli)

+ 4 Fish Oil Capsules

Cals: 1558
Fat: 23g~14%
Carbs: 219g~49%
Protein: 1369 ~37%
Fiber 36g

EXERCISE: 45 Minutes Elliptical

Until I figure out the best thing to do for now, I'm sticking to my regular plan, 1500-1700 cals around 40/40/20 plan or similar. Tomorrow I train legs with the hubby. Trainer is out of town.

Great to see you back!...It's tough some days, just keep moving forward :)

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey Thanks!

What a rollercoaster ride. Sometimes I wonder about that chemical imbalance-lol. I'm just surrounded by body image in my line of work and I find it frustrating. But hey, what's the alternative?

One step at a time.... (or hundreds--I'm just about to jump on my elliptical) :)

[moisy]

I just read your post from a few days ago - hang in there, you will reach your goal of wearing that bikini!! Just try to relax a little bit about the diet and listen to your body. You are a bit like me and need the carbs in your diet to balance out your blood sugar and energy levels so that you don't reach for too much food when you are hungry. I also agree with you that you want to be able to enjoy some normal foods too - keep account of your calories and protein and everything else will fall into place. A little extra fat or carbs on one day will not kill you as long as you are still in your calorie range.

I hope that you are feeling better. I think that it is great that you and your husband are so close andhave decided to take up going for a walk in the morning before breakfast. It sounds great!!!

take care, Moisy

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Moisy!

I appreciate that! I'm going to try and keep my cals around 1500-1700 per week. As for thanksgiving, I'm debating doing a no carb or lower cal day on Wednesday and Friday so I can enjoy a bit of "normal" Thanksgiving. I'm lucky to be having dinner here, so I'll cook it as healthy as I can--and so people will eat it-lol! I'm such a sucker for stuffing :)

Thanks again!

[moisy]

Enjoy your thanksgiving dinner with family since it only comes around once a year. At least most of the food is healthy like the turkey, sweet potatos, cranberries and veggies ... my only weakness would be the pumpkin pie ... but it is so damn good with a little cool whip on top and candied ginger. That is how I like it at least - a family thing!!!! lol

It is raining here where I am today and believe it or not, we had our Santa Claus parade in town today!!!! lol I made sure that I got to the gym well before all of traffic in town started - 5am on a saturday, but that is normal for me during the week!!!! lol Have a wonderful thanksgiving dinner and enjoy!!!

Moisy

[Emma-Leigh]

Hey Samantha,

I hope you are feeling better today. Don't get too disappointed with things ok! Enjoy your thanksgiving dinner and allow yourself to relax and have fun!


- Emma

[beaner1]

I wouldn't worry about being soo strict. You have to allow for some indulgance, so long as you get back to clean eating following. I think if you obsess and concentrate on being good for too long, it sets you up for error.

BTW, I enjoy reading your journal, it's the only one I read....can't figure why..but it's real and entertaining.

[Ms. Lucy]

lol--thanks beaner--love to entertain! :)

I'm going to enjoy T-day, but will also be making some "healthier" options for myself, such as stuffing made with ww bread and chicken broth rather than butter. I also don't like pie, so no problem there. I'm also making some roated pumpkin and squash with a bit of olive oil and sauteed squash and zucchini, also with olive oil. My main goal is to NOT stuff myself. Keep to my 5-6 meals and enjoy a little bit during dinner, and a little bit more when everyone has dessert! Now that I'm back to eating well, I don't want to throw myself way off base and feel sluggish--that always takes me a week to recouperate, which is why cheats don't go well with me! But so far I feel good.

Anyways, here's how today looks:

MEAL 1: 1 egg; 4 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 Serving Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 1 Turkey Patty; 2 cups veggie mix (carrots, corn, beans, green beans)

MEAL 4: 1 Protein Shake;1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Ox Tuna; Grapefruit (post exercise)

MEAL 6: 4 oz Salmon; 2 cups veggie mix

+ 4 Fish Oil Capsules

Cals: 1550
Fat: 23g~15%
Carbs: 175g~41%
Protein: 159 ~44%
Fiber 27g

EXERCISE: 45 Minutes Leg Workout
Cardio Kickboxing Class

Ate well this weekend but missed my workout sessions--which I'm making up this week--which works since there is food EVERYWHERE!

Later!

[beaner1]

A little OT here, but where abouts are you in Ohio? What kind of kickboxing class is it that you are taking? Just a regular version?...What do you think of the class, is it hard, fun, motivating?? Just checking to see if it's "my" kind of kickboxing...TK

[Ms. Lucy]

Hey Beaner,

I'm close to Cleveland. The class I take is just a cardio kickboxing class--not the real thing. It' more for my cardio, so I don't get bored. It's a fun class, but I don't agree with all the moves--not great on your knees, but I only go every so often. They also include a bit of "weights", that I don't do. They use 2-5lb dumbells and do some silly stuff for 30 reps or so, but I'm sure that's what most women do. After that they do sit ups, which I'll do. Overall, it's about 35 minutes of cardio, 5-10 stretching and the rest "weight" and abs. Honestly, I'm thinking I may get myself some Tae Bo DVD's soon, as the workout gets me to sweat, but won't hurt my knees as much!

I hope that answers your question--sorry so long winded--trying to delay doing my work-lol!

Have a great one!

---As an aside, I'm going to have a no carb day today--and a low carb day tomorrow to help with the bit of extra calories I'll be eating on Thursday--at least I think it should. No and low carb days are usually lower in cals, so by the ned of the week I should still be around my 1500-1700. We'll see. But then I'll be going back to normal stuff for a little while!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Well yesturday went partially well! I got a migraine mid-morning and had to take the afternoon off--which meant I slept all day! It's not totally gone, so i missed my workout! However, I haven't had one in so long, that I really can't complain--well, unless I actually start getting them daily again!

Tonight I'm going to try and get some cardio in and then start getting ready for dinner tomorrow. I'm looking forward to a few days off with the hubby and my dog! I'm still training this weekend, but would love to go on some long hikes as well. My husband and I used to go to this place that had 5 mile walking trails through the woods. It was membership only place, so few crowds, Now that's we've moved it's a good hour away, but it's really a beautiful place--and a great workout when it snows! Perhaps we'll get up there this weekend. I also haven't been fishing in forever, and would love to throw on my waders and have a go--just not sure which bait to use--I'll have to ask at the shop.

ANyways, I feel kinda icky and bloated cause of the migraine medicine and slightly irregular meals, but my spirits are up. We also refinanced our house last night and will be saving some money and should have some decent equity when we come to sell it in 5 years or so. I'm not a big money person, but I get tremendous satisfaction being able to live below my means and save a lot. AFter health, financial security is at the top of my list. Doesn't mean you have to make big bucks, just spend and save wisely--so last night I got a big boost of "we;re going in the right direction" which was able to balance out the cruddy headache.

I'm going to try and be good and post my meals over the break (except for perhaps T-Day--that's between me and the turkey).

I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday!

Take Care!

Lucy

[JLB04]

Lucy -

Have a great long holiday weekend! enjoy the outdoors with your hubby:)

[beaner1]

Thanks for briefing me on your class. The reason I ask is to see if it's TurboKick. TK is an awesome class that is SO much fun and SO hard cardio wise. It's a mix of aerobic and anaerobic moves. Too bad it's not that class. Funny thing is that we've had events set up in Cleveland for people to get certified to teach this format, but it didn't happen as not many people signed up.
I know what you're saying about taking k-box classes that are contraindicated. Just make sure you do the moves that are good for your body. So, if they are throwing punches or kicks that just don't seem right, change it to work for you.
Whenever I take people's classes, I never tell them that I'm an instructor just in case I want to walk out or change the moves that suck.
Have a great turkey day. =)

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks JLB04! You too!

Beaner--I've actually never heard of that before--sounds fun! Though I'm looking for soem DVD's to do at home--do you know if they have one for that--or is it a class only thing?

My classes are ok (bummed I missed cardio yesturday). Th eonly thing is that some moves really aren't safe--and KILL your knees. The girls who teach are nice, but get alot of info from magazines and such, and just did a weekend class. The weights they do are also a bit silly. I do the motion with no weights--if nothing more than to stretch. One woman actually came up to me once and asked if I didn't do weights because I didn't want to get bulky-lol. They were using 3lb weights. I'm not making fun of them, but it's just funny the type of information about weight training that's out there.

Anyways, let me know if you know of a good DVD--I'm looking for hard cardio stuff!

Have a great Turkey Day!

[imperfectly_lou]

Hope you are feeling better Lucy! :)

[Ms. Lucy]

Thanks Lou!

I think I've just been a bit stressed lately. Need to find some quiet time to myself. But I appreciate it.

[Ms. Lucy]

Well I made it through Thanksgiving alive!

I enjoyed my one meal and then got back to training. I tried to stay pretty active this weekend--going to my kickboxing classes and on a few long hikes with my hubby. All in all I feel pretty good.

Now I'm back to my typical schedule at work and with my food timing--which is nice after a break where were all over the place. I also noticed over this weekend, that after turkey dinner (ok, a little more than I usually eat at one sitting) I wasn't able to eat for about 4-5 hours, instead of my getting hungry 2.5 hours after normal meals. I guess that's just my body making up for the large meal! So anyways, again, it's just nice to be back in a routine (NEVER thought I'd love a routine-lol).

ANyways, today is leg training day and then I'll probably run up to my kickboxing class. I skipped my leg workout this weekend, only because it was nice and we wanted to be outside--went hiking/fishing. It's been awhile since we did that and it was nice to have the long break to be able to. I still need to work on being a bit nicer to him--he's put up with a lot of my moods and frustrations this past year, not to mention a huge change in meals. I know he's happy for me, and always was, but I know I don't thank him enough for that. I suppose I was always thinking this was a quick fix, that would only take 12 weeks--well, not quite. Still, we're halfway there-progress counts, but there's still things I need to work on. I have 4 weeks before Christmas, and it would be nice to make a goal of being healthy until then--especially with the several parties we have to attend! I'm not a sweats person, so that doesn't bother me, but I love wine--and champagne, but it always leaves me eating something I shouldn't, so I'll need to remember that--especially if I'm in a bad mood!

ANyways, that's about it for now. I'll be tracking my foods again and doing my best to break my "plateau." I'm also getting closer to my next cycle, which seems to always mean horrible mood swings and crappy body image, another thing to watch out for. IN fact, I'm realiziing just how much the pill actually helped me with those symptoms...but I just can't substitute the migraines. Oh well, at least there seems to be a calm before the storm-lol!

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!

Lucy

[Ms. Lucy]

Pretty good day. Pretty busy as well!

MEAL 1: 1 egg; 4 egg whites; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 2: 1 Serving Protein Shake; 1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 3: 1 Turkey Patty; 2 cups veggie mix (carrots, corn, beans, green beans)

MEAL 4: 3.5 oz Tuna;1/2 cup oatmeal

MEAL 5: 3.5 Oz Tuna; Grapefruit (post exercise)

MEAL 6: Turkey Burger; 2 cups veggie mix

+ 4 Fish Oil Capsules

Cals: 1374
Fat: 29g~20%
Carbs: 153g~40%
Protein: 128 ~40%
Fiber 24g

EXERCISE: 45 Minutes Leg Workout
Cardio Kickboxing Class or elliptical

I think I may buy the advanced Tae Bo tape this evening if I have time. I'd love to do that in the mornings if I can get my butt up.