Saturday, December 3, 2011

100 miles in 32 days...I must be crazy

So, a few weeks ago, one of my car pool buddies suggested that I look in on the "Jenny Challenge" (www.jennychallenge.com).  I guess the story goes that several years ago, a girl (Jenny) challenged her dad that she could run 100 miles between thanksgiving and Christmas.  He told her there was no way...and a challenge was born. 
This year there are well over 270 runners in the challenge, from Philadelphia to Portland....and I am one of them.

They tell you that this year there are 32 days between Thanksgiving and Christmas- which averages 3.125 miles per day...not a problem when you think daily...but when you start to think about the time of year, and shopping, and holiday parties and after work drinks....it becomes quite challenging.

I am proud to say, that I am still very much on track.  In fact, after my proposed run of 6 miles today, I will be ahead of schedule!

Here is what I have done so far:
11/24: Thanksgiving: 5 miles - thank you Turkey Trot
11/26: 3 miles
11/28: 6 miles
11/30: 4 miles
12/1: 4 miles


So, if it would stop raining, I would go for my six mile run today.  I am hoping to get a long run in tonight and tomorrow night so I can get a jump start on next week.  So....if you would like to start the challenge...join us.  www.jennychallenge.com

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Getting the hang of this

So I getting the hang of this weight watchers thing.  I am beginning to understand counting points...substitutions...veggies, fruits, etc.  I have found some recipes from the site that I really REALLY love....that give me the goodness that I crave, but are within my point allocations.  I understand what I can eat at snack time (oatmeal----great snack, it warms me up, fills me up and is only 3 points).  I have continued not to use the weekly allocation of 49 points, but instead try to only use the points I earn working out.

I weighed in today at 139.6....so we are moving in the right direction.
I am signed up for the Hot Chocolate 15 K next weekend and about 2 weeks ago I did the math and realized how far 15K was....its almost 10 miles...so I decided I needed to start training.  I did a couple short runs at the gym...but I HATE running on the treadmill.  I really have to be in the right frame of mind and just haven't been lately.  But last weekend was beautiful, so I got to have one more run on the lakepath.  I did about 8 miles and was really proud of myself.  I did a great job.  The next day, there was a 5K that hadn't closed yet, so I went ahead and signed up for that.  I finished with a personal best time of 30:15.. that's not good for many people, but really good for me.  I felt really great after that run.

I am having a really hard time working out after work.  #1- I am STARVING.  I get up at 5:30am, leave my house at 6:10, work all day, drive home, get back home at 6:30....I just want to eat, and go to bed:(  I have to figure out a way to at least get 1 or 2 workouts in during the week.  The weekends are great.  I can get a good long run in and be happy, but I really need to work on this workout during the week thing.

So, to recap-
eating going well....(if anyone wants any recipes, let me know!)
working out- going well on the weekends
life- its getting busy...and like it or not, here come the holidays....

Sunday, October 16, 2011

And....we are back on track!

A huge thank you is due to my dear friend Kari for helping me navigate this whole weight watchers thing.  She gave me some recipes for 0 point soup that I can eat if I am getting a urge to eat..or just before dinner so I don't over eat.  And it is delicious!!!!! 
She also gave me some insights to not use the extra 49 points they give me.  To stick with the 29 points a day and only use the extra points that I earn by working out.

I did GREAT this week! 
Weight 145.2 (3 lbs lost)
Chest: 37.5
Waist: 31.5
Hips: 38.5

And this is after a wonderful dinner last night with Scott at Fork. 

So...here I go again to repeat last week!

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Struggling

I am really struggling getting back on the weight loss train.  All I do is eat...I can't help it.  I am hungry all the time.  This week wasn't even a super crazy week.  Tuesday night (our month anniversary) we had theater tickets, so we went to dinner before hand...and I got this delicious mac and cheese....yes, super healthy...it even had bacon on it:)  And I had a couple glasses of the bubbly stuff...which is like 4 points each in weight watchers world.
I totally went over in points this week, and I really need to get back on the watching what I eat train.  I am just seeing my weight go up and if I get back to where I was when I started this I am not going to be in a good place.  This week should be pretty good. I can work out at least 3 or 4 days this week.  I might even try and get back to the Bikram studio.  One of the huge benefits I found for Bikram was you drink so much water, you are full.  And I didn't have the cravings I have now.
Does anyone know anything else you can eat with salsa besides tortilla chips?  I am looking for some tips:)

Thanks.

PS- this week I weight in at 145.2:(  But I'm not giving up...what doesnt hurt you only makes you stronger.

Sunday, October 2, 2011

I'm a weight watcher

So, I work for a ridiculously large corporation, and we have weight watchers classes that take place weekly.  I have never done weight watchers.  I don't know why....well, except for the fact that in the first 25 years of my life I never had to watch my weight.  I secretly hate the younger me too....so it is ok if you are feeling the same way.  I don't know....I guess there was a stigma to it in my head.  Kind of like the "women only gyms"... I just don't get it...it's not for me.
So, my co-worker also has about 10 lbs to lose and so we decided we would do weight watchers together.  She started about 2 weeks before me, and has already lost 6 lbs.
So, starting today I will be counting my points, trying to get at least 3 workouts in per week, and starting up my momentum to lose these pesky last 13-18 lbs.



Today's weigh in:
143.6 lbs
chest: 37 inches
waist: 32 inches
hips: 38.5 inches

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Hello- Have you missed me?

Well, I have missed you to.

I last left you in May, these were my stats:

weight: 142.8
BMI- 24.4
Chest- 37 inches
Waist- 31 inches
Hips- 38 inches

I tried on my wedding dress in June and they had to take it in 2 inches!!!  it was wonderful...but they told me I couldn't lose more weight....so, I tried to maintain...

Now we are married, and I am still about 10 lbs away from my goal of 130.  I would like to reach it by the end of the year.  I hear all about this newlywed 20 and I do NOT want to gain that.

So, my husband and I joined a gym on Saturday and I have been 2 times since Saturday!  I was up early yesterday morning so I went to the gym at 5am!  Today I went after work.  The gym I joined is my favorite gym...Galter Life Center!  I used to belong to Galter a couple of years ago and then when I moved in with Scott, I ended my contract.  Since then I have tried LA Fitness and Xport...and neither has left me with the happiness that I experienced at Galter.  It's privately owned and is part of a hospital...and it has a steam room (lets be realistic...that's the real winner).

They have TONS of good, free group classes, tons of machines, and wonderful people.  So....I am happy to be back at Galter!

So, now that I am back at Galter, and can lose weight again, I am back to you, my faithful readers to help keep me in check.

I will do my official first weigh in on Sunday as usual.  This may be challenging, being a newly wed, getting to be winter, and with my job...but I am going to do it!

Sunday, June 26, 2011

10 weeks...10 pounds...

So, the date has finally arrived.  We are getting to crunch time.  There are 10 weeks left til our wedding...10 weeks!  holy crap, how did that happen?  Pretty soon (like um, next week) its going to be 2 months. 

While wedding plans are well underway....the only real thing left are some of the details (like what color am I going to write guest names on place cards and how am I going to indicate what type of meal they ordered), my weight loss has taken a stand still.  I have been hovering around 139/140 for the past two weeks, which is great since my workout routine has still sucked major! 

This is all going to change starting this week.  The problem...I have the busiest week EVER.  Tomorrow is my hair trial, Tuesday is bookclub, Thursday is my first dress fitting!!!  Next weekend in 4th of July which only means bad food, lots of beer, and more bad food....grrr....what is a girl to do??!!??!!

I am going to try my hardest to get up several days this week BEFORE work to try and get a quick 3-4 mile jog in.  That will help alot....let's say that gets me 4 workouts....technically I walked for about 45 minutes this morning...but I need a little more than that. 

I will let you know how this week goes:) 

YIKES 10 weeks and COUNTING!

Sunday, June 12, 2011

The 17 day diet starts today!

Friday was a wonderful day!  I weighed myself and I finally broke the 140 mark.  I was down to 139.8 lbs.  I'm going to go ahead and give the heat some props on this.  This past week was HOT HOT HOT.  So hot that eating anything was almost out of the question.  Wednesday night I had cheese and apricot preserves for dinner.  And I drank so much water this week it was insane!

Well, yesterday I ate about a pound and a half of candied bacon made by Tricia Meier that was AMAZING.  OMG- have you had candied bacon before?  Number 1- it's awesome...cuz its bacon...#2 its coated in brown sugar.  you cant even imagine how good this is...and in celebration of Ms. Meier's birthday, some celebratory cocktails were had.

So....I am back up to 141...:( 


Today I am starting the 17 day diet....well actually it will probably be tomorrow....but I have bought all the food... so that's a good first step.  I am supposed to lose 10 pounds in 17 days....which would put me right at the mark i want to be at!


But on a good note- I went to the doctor on Friday.  I guess my blood pressure is GREAT..everyone kept commenting on it!

Sunday, May 29, 2011

I'm BACK!!!! May is over...let June begin!

Well, I have good news and better news! 

i spent the month of May "off".  It wasn't on purpose.  I really planned on running 4 days a week and training for the "Soldier Field 10 miler". A race I ran yesterday in benefit for the American Cancer Society! 

Even though I didn't "work out", I did watch my calorie intake, and DADA---didn't gain any weight!!!  i didn't lose any weight.  Well technically, I weighed myself this morning and I gained 0.2lbs....but Im ok with that:)

So...I still have these pesky 10 pounds to lose in the next 98 days...yep, that's right 98 days, and I did a much better job when I was blogging and was accountable to you.  So....I'm back!

The workouts won't be as structured.  I don't have the flexibility at this time to make a 30 day commitment to one type of workout, but I have a couple of workouts still purchased, and will be running with my buddy Carolyn about once a week and trying to do Bikram about one other day a week,  I will figure out something else to do the other 2 days a week.

I will eat better.  As of today, I am cutting out alcohol for the month of June....yikes!  I mean it's boating season...I don't know that I have ever been on a boat without a beer....I'm kinda not sure it's allowed...but I am going to try!  I know that will help jump start me back into weight loss.

So, yesterday I ran the Soldier Field 10 miler.  I didn't train.  I probably ran 10 miles in the last month!  So, I was very nervous going into the race.  I wasn't going to put any unrealistic expectations on myself.  I was hoping to finish in under 2 hours, and figured I would walk somewhere around mile 6.
But, I did it!  I ran the whole thing!  I finished in 1:46 minutes and felt awesome...well, minus the pesky knee that is still hurting today.  I should go to yoga today...but am not hydrated enough, so I will try to go tomorrow!

Anyways- the base line for the next 4 weeks:
weight: 142.8
BMI- 24.4
Chest- 37 inches
Waist- 31 inches
Hips- 38 inches

See you next week.

Sunday, April 24, 2011

The 4 months are OVER....WHAT!!!

So Im sitting here...and realized my four months are over.  (You know the title 4 months, 4 workouts 20lbs)....
Let's recap-
In January I did Bikram Yoga...26 yoga poses in a hot HOT room (105 degrees F).  I learned what sweating is like in Bikram.  I loved it.  Loved the studio, lost a lot of weight, and loved being WARM in those cold January days!

February was The Daley Method-  The Daley Method is a combination of pilates, yoga, and ballet.  I believe the daley method helped me build up some of my upper body strength so I could do Jillian Michaels.  Sometimes the classes seemed a little less "exercisey" for my taste...and more like a fashion show.... but it was a good workout.

March was Jillian Michaels.  I worked out from home, did the "no more trouble zones" workout.  I liked getting home early and getting a parking spot.  I liked being able to compare and see how I was progressing and finally being able to do the WHOLE workout without taking a break.  I love me some Jillian...she kicks my bootie.

April was Row Fit Chicago.  Most of the classes were spent on an urg.  rowing in an instructor led class.  There were a few "cross fit" days thrown in there, working on upper body and building some muscles.  I really like rowing.  I think I will use this as my "cross train" day when running in May and may end up getting a membership in June.

So...what do the results show?  Bikrams WINS....Surprisingly, the daley method was  a close second.
However, in the defense of Jillian and Rowing...my diet was MUCH MUCH better in January and February.


Month Beginning Weight End Weight Weigh Loss Total Weight Loss % Workout
Jan 161.2 153 8.2 5.09% Bikram
Feb 153 147.6 5.4 3.53% Daley Method
Mar 147.6 145.2 2.4 1.63% Jillian
Apr 145.2 142.6 2.6 1.79% Rowing

Now, fear not.  I will continue blogging about my weigh loss journey.  I still haven't lost my 20 lbs...just BARLY under... and I need to continue this and do a few more.  I'd truly in my heart of hearts like to be about 130 for the wedding....
Luckily, I have another 4 months to go.  I think I now have a better idea of what works, and I still have a boot camp groupon to use!

Rowing Weigh in - Week 4

Good Easter Morning all-
First, thank you for all your comments on my last post.  Thanks to you, I have upped my calorie intake to 1250 net calories per day.  Let me tell you what a difference it makes.  I am not feeling hungry anymore, and have seen a decrease in weight...just as you all predicted!  I think my body is still getting used to not being "starved", so it may take a bit longer, but I think it will get me back on track!

This week was great.  I am getting SOOOO good at rowing.  My splits are going down, I am getting better at form (my back doesnt hurt nearly as badly). If it wasn't for this silly run I am doing at the end of May, I think I would continue rowing.  Instead, after Wednesday---Melissa is my name, Running is my game.

My mom and sister came to town yesterday, and all of us (including Scott) went on a food tour of a neighborhood in Chicago.  It was sooooo fun!  We went on the near north side and had 7 stops: We had a pastrami sandwich at one of the only real Jewish Deli's in downtown chicago, we had some tea at Tea Guschwender, went to The Spice House where we tasted cinnemen from around the world, Old Town Oil, where we sampled some great 100% EVOO's and balsamic vinagarettes, some delicious toffee from the Fudge Pot, a perogi and Kolaczki's, and then to Bocino's pizza for some "heart healthy" Chicago style stuffed pizza.
All that eating....but it was a walking tour, we walked about 3 miles through three different Chicago Neighborhoods (Gold Coast, Old Town, Lincoln Park).  Learned a lot about the history of Chicago, saw the original playboy mansion, and just had a great time.  I highly HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who wants a nice way to spend a few (3 and a half) hours on a walking tour in Chicago.

Anyways, with all that walking plus some more, and my rowing yesterday and the burger and fries I had for dinner, I still didnt get my required calorie intake!  I tried as hard as I could!!!!

Mom and sis are still here, and we are up for some more eating and fun!  Enjoy your Easter's.
PS- next weekend I will be at a wedding.  I may post something on Monday!

Oh- the weigh in results!
Weight- 142.6 lbs
Hips- 38
Waist- 30.5
Chest- 37

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Too FEW calories?

So, I have been utilizing livestrong.com to tell me how many calories I need to consume to get down to my target weight by my my wedding  (my own personal shedding for the wedding....but I don't win a honeymoon:().  According to livestrong.com I was supposed to be around 940 calories a day.  Here's the thing....since I have started trying to get down to 940, nothing has been happening!  I have been doing some research and I think I am not eating ENOUGH!  I guess if you "starve" yourself- which I have not been doing in case anyone is worried- your body stores all the extra food so it has a safety zone!

So, I from what I am reading, I need to increase my calorie intake to 1200/day, which is what I was doing a few months ago (4 meals a day at 300 calories a meal).

Hopefully this will keep me going and put back on track!

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Hey there readers

Guess what....I am not weighing in..  Well, I take that back...I did weigh in...it was a pretty miserable experience.  Last week being my birthday week and all (30---yippee), I ate pretty horribly, and it all caught up to me.  (PS- did you know that Leinenkugals Berry Weis has 208 calories per bottle...that was pretty depressing!)

So... I have a wedding to be at in Kansas City at the end of the month and I need to be under 140....so I have a bunch of work to do to get me there:( Also, this weather is NOT helping!!! Grrr....  I am sooo aggravated.  I am ready for spring....I am ready for April....this May better be the floweriest, because this April is the rainiest.  Booooooo rain.

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Row Fit Week 2

Hey all-
Sorry it's so late.  Spring has sprung in Chicago (at least for a few days), and I was taking all the advantage of it I could. 
I am really starting to get into this rowing thing.  I like that I can really start to see my progress. 
There are two "stats" we look at (a) strokes/minute and (b) split (ie- how long to row 500 meters.

When I first started it was really hard for me to get below 2:45 for a split.  but now, I am almost consistently at a 2:20 split (or less if we are doing sprints).  I am feeling really good about it.  My legs are working well, my arms and chest are working well.  I am really liking the coaches, and am really excited for progress.  I really do like this workout alot!

I also got to go on a bikeride yesterday and today.  I volunteered at the "Shamrock Shuffle" this week (one of the largest 8K races in the US).  For those of you who don't know, I race for the American Cancer Society's DetermiNation program.  I have done a marathon and a half marathon in the past.  This year I am doing the Soldier Field 10 mile at the end of April.  We finish on the 50 yard line of soldier field on the jumbotron!!!!  awesome!  (shamless plug for fundraising- here is my link: http://main.acsevents.org/goto/meldanzsf10   )

So, this weekend I volunteered at the expo yesterday and was a "coach" today.  I biked all the way to Navy Pier yesterday and back, today all the way to grant park and back....Im thinking it was about 25 miles total.  My butt HURTS, but it hurts so good.

Anyways, the weight loss doesn't show it this week, but I know if I keep pushing through this, I will get over this plateau.  I feel a little like Cortney on the biggest loser.  But I will keep it up...and it will happen!!!


Weight: 142.8
24.4 BMI
38 inches- hips
30.5 inches waist
37 inches chest...


oh and did I forget to mention.....It's my BIRTHDAY WEEK!!!!  Hip Hip Hooray!!!  I turn 30 on Thursday and can't wait!  I am so excited for my thirties....Thirty, and Flirty and Fun!



Sunday, April 3, 2011

RowFit Week 1

I have a confession to make.  I really really like rowing.  The place where I go for my rowing classes also has a couple of other options for class.  I went to a "cross fit" class on Tuesday where I had to do a sequence of items (dead lifts, ball clings and squats) in a couple of sets 21, 15, 9 in as quick as time as possible.  Most of my rowing classes have a set workout.  So on my first day we rowed did a variety of strokes per minute.  Yesterday in the class we did little races.  So, this was my 3rd day of rowing.  I didn't plan on winning a whole lot of these races....but it's amazing what compitition does to me:)  I lost the first race (the girl next to me was pretty awesome).  I went 548 (or so) meters in 2:30, she went 614- rediculous....So my teacher put us next to someone with closer ability.  The second race I went 558 meters in 2:30.  Not only did I beat myself in the first race, but I beat the person next to me.  In the third race, the girl next to me and I were neck and neck,  The teacher came up behind us with about 20 seconds left and said that it was going to be neck and neck.  I finished with 578 meters in 2:30....the girl next to me....577.  I won....by a METER.
It was amazing.
I do feel like it is a good workout.  I am excited to go back today and the rest of the week this week.
Here are the weigh in results:
Weight: 143.0
BMI: 24.4
Hips: 38 inches
Waist: 31 inches
Chest: 36 inches

If anyone knows of any ways I can lose more around my waist, I would be appreciative!!!

Sunday, March 27, 2011

J. Mike week 4--- results...

I am begining to sense a pattern.  I do really well for the first 3 weeks of a work out and then the forth....not sure if i get bored, if my body just wants more food, or what...but week 4 is always a struggle. 

This week I was still "trying" to do this bo carb thing.  Let's put it this way....my body doesn't do well with no carbs.  I need variety.  Eating meat, cheese and lettuce everyday is not enough for me.  That was why my earlier diet worked so well for me.  I had a variety of things i could eat.  They were all super easy to make and plan for the week.  So, I made a decision over the weekend that I was stopping the no carb thing and going back to my "Flat Belly Diet".  I have a wedding at the end of April, so I do have a pretty aggressive goal that i want to meet!!!! (I also REALLY WANT to break the 140 mark by my birthday....in 20 days).

So not only did I have pretty poor eating habits this week, I also did very poorly on my work out.  I only worked out 2 times.  As easy as it was to do the Jillian Michael's work outs at home...it was equally to come home and sit on the couch.  Especially now that Scott is home every night.  I should have done the at home workouts when he was still in school.  I only worked out twice...TWICE.

So my results show that.  I was down to 142 on Tuesday and today I was back up to 145.2  :(

Week 1:
Weight: 147.6 lbs
BMI- 25.2
Hips: 38 inches
Waist: 30.5 inches
Chst: 36.5 inches
Week 4:
Weight: 145.2 lbs
Hips: 38
Waist: 31.5 :(
Chest: 37

Now...I did measure myself a little bit later today than usual (not immediatly after I woke up), so I am not too worried about my measurements.  I actually am having a really hard time keeping my "fat pants" on (the ones I bought when I gained those extra 10 lbs:))

So Jillian is over.  I am on to my next adventure.  ROWING!  i bought this groupon a couple of months ago and it expires before the boot camp one I bought (there are also several more classes available.

http://www.rowfitchicago.com/

I went to my first rowing class today.  Not too shabby, but my hands are already starting to feel very calloused.  I also had a pretty sharp pain in my shoulder about 1/2 way through the class.  But I really liked it. 
They have a few other classes as well (boxing and cross training) so I hope to try out some of the other classes and keep you informed.

Thanks for checking in!

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Jillian Michaels- Week 3 Weigh in

So, first of all, I apologize for not weighing in last week.  I had some...well... let's just say I wasn't quite myself last weekend.
I have now been doing Jillian Michaels "No More Trouble Zones" workout for three weeks.  There are good things and bad things about doing the same workout day in/day out.
The bad: it gets a little monotonous.
The good: I can really see how I am getting better, able to do more moves, increase my weights, etc.
When I first started my workouts in January, I couldn't do more than 1 or 2 pushups without having to go to my knees.  Now I can do all the pushups in Jillian's workout (there are two sets of 14 in case you were wondering).  I am ALMOST able to complete the "vicious plank circuit" without going into downward dog.  It feels really good!

Starting Thursday, I decided I was going to do a "low carb diet" for two weeks.  My friend Angelisa did it 2 weeks and lost 5 lbs...just by giving up carbs.  It is proving to be much harder (and more expensive) than I ever knew it would be.  I went to the store yesterday and bought a bunch of meat....that's pretty much it...just meat.  For breakfast Thursday and Friday I had bacon and eggs.  So I am getting rid of my carbs and adding a whole bunch of cholesterol and fat.  Not sure how it is supposed to work, but I guess I will see. 

I know last time I talked to you about how I was a little "sad" that the weight is starting to come off more slowly...but I was thinking about it this week.  I have lost a significant amount of weight since January 1st.  I mean, its only the middle of March and am I past halfway to my goal.  Even if I can lost another 5 lbs by the end of April, I will be in good shape for the wedding I am going to.  Plus it's going to start to get nice outside which will only mean more random "unplanned" calorie burning (walks, bikerides, etc).  So I am feeling confident that I will either meet or SURPASS my goal by the end of April!  (well, technically the beginning goal was 20 lbs- as in then blog title...but I REALLY want to get down to 130 lbs.  I haven't been below 140 since pretty much I moved to Chicago, so I know it's going to take a little longer. 

Anyways, I weighed in today and here are the results:
Weight: 144.0
BMI: 24.6
Hips: 38 inches
Waist: 31 inches
Chest: 37 inches

Thanks for checking in.

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Week 1 of Jillian Michaels kicking my bootie

I had a long conversation with a co-worker about my weight loss struggles.  Ive been a bit irritated that I lost so much weight my first month, and still just keep hovering around 149.  He told me about this is very normal.  I forget what he called it, but said the body will do a good job losing weight and then it hits a plateau, and it takes a good deal of self restraint to really get it kicked back to losing again.  You REALLY have to watch your diet, ensure you are buringing more calories than you take in, etc.
After I had that conversation with him on Wednesday I got did much better at watching the diet. 

I had great workouts this week.  I started Jillian Michaels No More Trouble Zones.  Its about a  50 minute work out when you include the warm up/cool down.  For those of you who do not know, Jillian Michaels is one of the trainers on "The biggest loser".  I used to watch the biggest loser while eating a bowl of icecream.  Now, I watch it while doing squats.  What a lifestyle change. Anyways, in this workout there are 7 circuts of 5 moves (most of them with weights) and they each repeat twice.  I lost my 2 lbs weights so I used my 3 lbs weights.  (Now of course Scott "FOUND" my 2 lbs weights....but now that Ive been doing the workout with the 3, Im going to stick with that.

It's been great to come home right after work and work out.  I can find a pretty good parking spot, and by 8pm I've already had my workout in, ate dinner AND showered.  When I was working out after work at the Dailey Method or Bikram, I was getting HOME at 8pm.  So this week I havent felt as warn down:)

And the results are in....and they are goo!

Weight: 145.6 lbs- I am halfway to my goal of 130!!!!!
BMI: 24.8
Hips 38 inches
Waist: 31 inches
Chest: 37 inches

Have a good weekend all!  Im headed to Pekin to wish my sister the Happiest 21st Birthday!

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Week 4 Dailey Method- How did Dailey Method Stack Up?

It is COLD.  I am so sick of winter.  We got a great glimpse of spring last week and it was just a tease.  There is snow back on the ground, the air is crisp and windy...I just want it to be 50...that's all I am asking:)  Please March come in like a lamb, and leave like one too!

But on a good note, my 4th week of The Dailey Method is over...and that means, so is February!  by the time I finish the next month, it will be April...and spring will be here!  (of course, as much as parts of me wants spring to get here, I have this little event in September that is approaching quickly as well....so I'm in a bit of a conundrum.

So, let me tell you about The Dailey Method. 
It's all about core strength.  It's all about sucking in your gut (let me tell you...its hard to do that for 60 minutes).  I feel like its all about planks (you seriously do some type of plank for about 5-7 minutes of class....YIKES!).  I am not that strong, my abs are not that strong.  But yesterday I actually finished all 10 pushups on my toes...TWICE!.  So, I know that it's working, I know that I am getting stronger.  I really liked some of the teachers that I had multiple times.  In some of the classes that were less crowded they do a really good job of correcting your body.  I finally figured out how to tuck my hips to get a good workout in my "seat".
I didn't like it as much as Bikram, I miss my Bikram, and I don't think it is something I will do regularly, but I do think it would be a great combination to a running workout for some core strenghening. 

I bought my Jillian Michaels "No More Trouble Zones" and am starting today.  I'm super excited to be able to come home right after work and get a good parking spot.  I wish we lived on the first floor (or in a building completely owned by us) so I could workout in the morning....but no such luck!

My diet was touch and go this month....with a lot more touch than go.  so, I guess the results of the Dailey Method are unfortunately a little skewed.  I am going to try to "jumpstart" my diet again this week and see if I can get back on track!

Here are my week 4 weigh in results:
Weight: 147.6 lbs
BMI- 25.2
Hips: 38 inches
Waist: 30.5 inches
Chst: 36.5 inches

Totals:
Weight Loss: 5.4 lbs
Hips: 0.5 inches
Waist: another inch---whoohoo!
Chest: 0.5 inches

So, still pretty reasonable.  I am hoping for at least another 5-10 lbs in March. Stay Tuned!

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Week 3- The Dailey Method

I started off on Sunday this week saying, oh it's Sunday- I have 7 days until my next weigh in.  I can eat poortly (and had a burger and fries at the bar watching Creighton CREAM Southern illinois in basektball....the joy of that victory was worth all the extra calories)
Unfortunatly, I never seemed to turn off my "bad food" fix.
It was a crazy busy week.  I had a meeting with a photographer on Monday, Bookclub on Wednesday, and my mom, aunt and cousin here yesterday. 
I admit- I only did The Dailey Method 3 times this week :(  It was BEAUTIFUL in Chicago this week (59 degrees on Thursday).  on wednesday I ran to bookclub!!!!!  ~1.5 miles (not too far, but far enough!)  Im pretty sure my bookclub girls think i am on crack....but they did a good job not judgeing me:)

This week looks much better.  Today the girls and I are doing Oscar Movie Marathon.  Seeing "The Kings Speach", "The Fighter" and possibly "The Black Swan".  I got some turkey jurkey and some sugar snap peas for my "movie snacks" and I am going to pick up some vitamin water on my way over. 

I just went to the grocery store.  Scott and I share grocery buying responsibilties...he goes one week, I go the next.  I think what I have found is when I go to the store, I tend to make my meals more often.  If Scott goes- I *seem* to have all this extra money that i can use for purchasing food as meals...I need to stop this!!! 

Well, even with all the poor eating habits this week and the lack of workouts, I still ended up losing some pounds and inches:
Weight: 148.2 lbs
BMI- 25.3
Hips- 38- YEAH I finally broke the 39 mark
Waist- 31 inches
Chest- 36 inches :(  and I am officially back down to a B cup- stupid losing inches in my chest.


How are your new years resolutions going?  It's almost March...are you still going strong?

Sunday, February 13, 2011

The Dailey Method: Week 2

This was the first week I did not make it to work out 4 days.  I only did three. I have to admit I did feel guilty about it last night, but by then it was too late to fix it.
It's Valentine's Day tomorrow.  Scott and I went out to dinner last night at a place called "Chalkboard".  Its a cute little restaurant located close to our neighborhood.  The chef tries to use locally grown products and/or organic stuff when they can.  Therefore, the menu changes based on what is available.
Last night (and all weekend for V-day), they offered a prix fix menu.  5 courses (I got the 5 courses with wine pairings).
Amuse Bouche- Caviar---I have never had cavier before, but it was such a small amount on top of a slice of fingerling potato, I didnt really taste it.
Course 1: I had the tomato bisque soup served with a grilled blue cheese sandwich (AMAZING)  Scott had the risotto.  He said it was good.  I was a bit worried about the blue cheese sandwich.  I like blue cheese, but was worried it it was just blue cheese it would be a bit overpowering.  It wasn't, It was perfect!
Course 2: We both had the scallops.  There are no words to describe how good these were. light, crispy, succulent.  Fabulous!  (the other option was a lobster salad....the lady next to me had it, it looked fine, but I'm glad I had the scallops.
Course 3: We both went with the crab crusted fillet, over the seared ahi Tuna.  This course was my least favorite.  The meat was very well done (and I'm a bit of pink in the center- actually it can be more than a bit kind of girl)
Dessert- cookie dough egg roll with chocolate ice cream.  We shared this and it was good....but I kept myself to a few bites.
What i probably liked best about this meal is that though there were 5 courses, it wasn't TOO MUCH food.  They were perfect portions.  Always left me wanting more (I wasn't on the second course going I'm so full.  I can't eat anymore.)
The wine pairings were very well thought out.  very fresh, very good.
All in all, a very happy valentines day.

Here are my weigh in numbers for the week:
Weight: 149.4 lbs
BMI: 25.5
Chest: 36.5
Waist: 31.5
Hips: 39

I am off to the dailey method now.  Gonna kick this week off right!

Sunday, February 6, 2011

The Dailey Method- Week 1

This week I started The Dailey Method (http://www.thedaileymethod.com/).  I really like it so far.  I went 5 days this week, even with a blizzard!  The Dailey Method is a combination of ballet, pilates, and yoga.  They focus on thighs, "seat, arms,  and core (abs/back).  There are a lot of reps (aLOT) just using your body for the most part.  There are some weights used during the arms portion, but only 2lbs. 
I am having a bit of trouble with "tucking my hips"...I'm not entirely sure what it means, and I KNOW I am not doing it correctly.  The teachers are GREAT though, give some personal attention, making sure you are doing the moves correctly, ensuring you keep your abs sucked in (THAT is hard work:))
But it looks like its paying off:
Here are the numbers:
Weight: 149.7 lbs
BMI: 25.4
Chest: 37 inches
waist: 31.5 inches
hips: 39 inches

I have done MUCH MUCH better on my diet this week (minus the chicken fingers I had at the bar last night).  This week is going to be much more challenging.  I have an ACS meeting on Monday night, Les Miserables on Tuesday night, and I actually have to go into the office this Friday (my team rotates Friday's so we only have to go in once every 5 weeks - AMAZING!), but I am signed up for class Wed-Sat this week.  Hopefully I will have figured out tucking my hips by then:)
Thanks for checking in!

Sunday, January 30, 2011

Bikram Recap- 4 weeks of Bikram...the results are in

I learned something this week.  I learned that if I was on the biggest loser and was faced with my food temptations I would FAIL miserably!  I would be the girl who would go in and be "one little bite won't hurt"....I would be wrong.

My diet was HORRIBLE, HORRIBLE this week. *Please Note- I DO NOT blame the restaurants, I blame myself.  I could have opted for healthier choices....I did not*

Sunday was the HORRIBLE, horrible Bears/Packers game.  I went over a friends house to watch the game.  Now, Papa Johns just opened in the city (or at least in our neighborhood), so I have been wanting to order it.  We did..it was delicious. I should have stopped at one piece, I did not...I had 3 (at a whopping 240 calories a slice...YIKES!). I blame my depression of the bears offense.
Sunday un-needed calories: 720 (half of my usual daily intake)

Monday I didn't like the lunch I took, so I went to the McDonald's in the other corporate office building.  I should have opted to get oatmeal (cuz it's delicious and only 290 calories), but I had a bad meeting, so I opted for a chicken tenders value meal.
Monday un-needed calories- 830

Wednesday, we had a lunch meeting....bring in the Buona Beef Italian Beef Sandwich.  Now, I could have had one 4 inch sandwich (only 300 calories- would have kinda fit in my diet---minus the white awesomely delicious Italian bread (especially when it is soaked in beef broth---yum).  I had 3 4 inch sandwiches. 
Total un-needed calories- 665

Thursday- another lunch meeting, surprisingly more Italian Beef (I did limit to one this time) and some baked mosticholi...yippee....more carbs.  Cant find the calorie count here, but Im assuming at least 600 un needed.

Friday night- (I told you....bad week)- I went out with some co-workers to celebrate some good news from McDonald's...and had a few (several) beers.  Now, I have been trying really hard WHEN I go out, to limit my drinks to vodka and soda....not the case...these were STONG ale's (no MGD 64 here).  Then I had some late night quesadilla's.

So, my results show that.  The only good thing that came from this week was me realizing that my diet was DEFINITELY assisting in my weight loss.

So, enough about all of that.  Let's do a quick recap of my month of Bikram.
I stared Bikram in November, and I remember that first class.  It was horrible.  I sat down about every other pose, I threw up afterward (though I think that is more because of my "Women's One a Day").  Throughout my couple of times going in Nov and Dec I began to really take my yoga seriously.  In January, when it really almost became a daily practice I could feel myself getting further into the poses, into my practice and really being able to breath in the poses.  I became flexible (or at least more flexible) and calm...which is not a word people usually use when they describe me.

So yoga is over. My next 4 weeks will be spent on 'The Daily Method" -which is like the bar method, but closer to my house.  I did my first session this morning, and WOW- it is different that what I have been doing.  I think it's going to kick my rear!  I am also back on the diet.  Scott is at the store as we speaking picking up my healthy options:)

Bikram Yoga week 4 results:
weight: 153 lbs
BMI: 26.1
Chest: 37 inches
Waist: 31.5 inches
Hips: 38.5 inches

Total Loss-
weight: 8lbs 2 oz
chest: 1.5 inches
waist: 2.5 inches
hips: 1.5 inches

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Weigh In- Week 4

This is my LAST week of yoga.  Can you believe it?  I can't.  Im getting a little sad already, because I REALLY REALLY am begining to LOVE my Bikram yoga classes.  I can see how much better I have become, I get through classes without sitting down, and the teachers at Bikram Yoga Andersonville actually complement my poses sometimes (this happened yesterday during triangle....my nemisis pose, so I was pretty excited.

Here is me in a few poses at home.  Note- these were taken at home, and not after a Bikram class, so I am CERTAIN I look better in my class.





Bikram, for me, is great because it is consistent.  It is the same 26 poses every class.  You can really start to feel your body change, your positions change, amidst the consistency.  If you are having a bad class, which happens to the best of  yogis, you can tell where you are in class and know if you should sit down, or if you can make it to the mid-class sevasina (NO idea how to spell that).

I have begun following a Bikram Blog- I'm becoming kinda die hard.

As for my diet...I did REALLY good all week, until last night.  I ate chicken fingers at the bar...OMG- they were soooooooooo good:)

Here is my weigh in for 1/23/2011
Weight: 151- only down one pound from last week :(  but still down (I mean, the biggest loser guys GAINED 9 pounds this week, so Im doing just fine)
Chest: 37 inches
Waist- 32 inches (down 1/2 an inch)
Hips- 39 inches (down 1/2 an inch)

Thanks again for checking in and your words of encouragement.

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Week 3 weigh in- Im cheating---

So, it's Saturday---I'm weighing in.
Why, you ask?  Well, it's Scott's birthday so we are going to dinner tonight with his parents.  Dinners with his parents always involve more food and alchol than I should consume prior to my weigh in.  So....I'm weighing in today.

How did I do this week?  As you recall from last week, I had a pretty busy week without my workout schedule.  I had ACS meeting on Monday night, and bookclub on Wednesday night.

No need to fear, I still got my 4 workouts in this week.  Next week is going to be great, as I get MLK, Jr day off and it's my work from home day on Friday.  It's getting easier and so much better.  As I really get to enjoy Bikram, I get sad that it goes so quickly (it's the fastest 90 minutes of my life).  In every class at Bikram Yoga Andersonville, they say "if you want to stay for the next class, go sign in" .  I used to think these people were crazy, but now Im starting to think..."I could do that".  maybe Ill try that this week?

Need more great news?  Yesterday I bought a "living social" deal- $20 for 30 days of boot camp workout.  So, I am going to do that in April! 

I can really start to see that my clothes are fitting better.  My bras aren't pinching anymore, my sports bras are easier to get on and off, my pants are fitting better, and I'm starting to feel better.  At work, we order food more than any company needs to order food in the history of companies.  On Tuesday we ordered lunch from Jason's deli.  Jason's is great because they have good healthy food in general. I was able to order and stick with my diet requirements.  Thursday we went to Gibson's for lunch to celebrate a co-workers birthday and another co-workers last day.  I had a bit of difficulty there.  They brought out chips with my turkey club (with extra avocado)...I ate way too many of them...salt is my weakness:(

Anyways, it was a pretty good and successful week.  Here are the stats:
Weight: 152 lbs (this is probably more like it- 2lbs a week is a bit more realistic)
Body Fat %- 24.4%
BMI= 25.9

Chest: 37 inches
Waist: 32.5 inches
Hips: 39.5 inches

Also, evidently I have quite the following out there.  Thanks for checking on on my status!  It keeps me motivated!

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Week 2- Bikram Yoga

Good morning everyone!

I have something to admit to you.  I only worked out 4 days this week (not that 5 that I am supposed to).  It started because I was LAZY last sunday and didn't go, then Thursday night we went out for drinks with some friends, and Friday....well...I guess I was lazy again.

It's going to be very hard to do 5 days again this week b/c Monday I have a American Cancer Society Meeting, and Wednesday I have bookclub....but I am going to try.

Let me tell you something else.  I went back to Bikram on Monday (after about 2 weeks off)---it SUCKED.  I probably sat over 1/2 of the standing poses.  I was so dizzy and not feeling well.  I went back Tuesday, Wednesday and yesterday and it got MUCH better...hard to believe that before my break, I was able to get through a whole class without a drink or a break, and now I am back to before. 


I have done a really great job at food intake this week.  I followed my diet almost to a tee...I bought a bunch of fish from Trader Joe's (I haven't eaten any of it yet...but it's purchased and in my freezer), I did have some chicken chili at the bar on Thursday night, and last night....last night was not good.  We had some friends over to watch football, and I made artichoke dip....I had to try some, it smelled so good....my stomach did not know what do to with the fatty goodnessI put in my body....it reacted very poorly:(  So, I guess I learned my lesson!

So, now for the stats-
1/9/2011 weigh in:
Weight: 154.0- (mostly this is all water weight- I am not nieve enough to think I will lose 8 lbs a week on a regular basis....but its a great start!)
Body Mass Index= 26.3
Body Fat %= 24.7%
Chest= 37inches
Waist= 32.5 inches
Hips= 39.5 inches

So...so far, so good.  Doing great so far!
Thanks for everyone's words of encouragement.  They are really helping!

Sunday, January 2, 2011

Week 1: Weigh In

Well, I have gotten myself pretty prepared for this 4 month experiement.  I had my last "fun week" last week, full of appetizers, crackers, wine and all the other good stuff.  My journey to lose some weight begins today!

I bought a new scale that shows my BMI, body fat %, bone mass, etc.  Its a pretty cool scale.  It also lets me set a goal weight and it shows my progress.

So, the moment you have all been "weighting" for...and I have been dreading.  Let's take a look at some numbers

Total Lbs: 161.2
BMI: 27.6
Chest: 38.5 inches
Waist: 34 inches
Hips: 40 inches

I head to yoga tonight at 5:45 (I havent been in almost 2 weeks so I am excited, but a little nervous about how much flexibility i have lost in those couple of week).  I also am very dehydrated due to two celebration days , so I will only do what I can.

This week shouldnt be too difficult.  I dont have a whole lot going on, so I should be able to maintain my 5 days schedule!

Ill see you next Sunday with an update (hopefully a lb or so lighter!)