I am having a little "anxiety" (I put that in quotes because I wouldn't quite call it anxiety-- more like a sneaky suspicious worry...) about my trip back to the scale on Saturday.
Today is just Monday, and many things have gone well already this week menu-wise, but I had 2 "MOMO's" over the weekend.
If I have trouble at the scale this week-- I want to record this for my own edification. I'll want to think twice about MOMO's if I have a problem.
Anyway, that is not to say that I blew it or even "splurged" (the JC way or binge or whatever-- eating too much) on either occasion.
The first meal was on Saturday night. We were planning to go out for sushi, but we wound up ordering in b/c I just didn't feel like coping with the potential fall out of a tired Jordan at the restaurant. Here's what I had:
Sashimi-- 2 pieces tuna, 2 pieces Ikura (salmon roe), 4 pieces salmon
Roll--3 roll pieces of spicy salmon roll
Wonton soup broth (no wontons)
Now, I know this is a larger portion than the average JC meal, and I don't have my menu planner in front of me-- but I know I skipped my fruits or something to sort of make up the calorie diference. Note: I was totally and completely STUFFED after this meal. I was shocked b/c it really wasn't so much food-- just more to the point that I really have shrunk my stomach's expectation of the size of a meal.
The second meal was not planned-- it wound up that we went to the Children's Museum yesterday in Paramus, NJ with our friends and their adorable son, whom Jordan calls "LuLu" sometimes. Cute.
We were out so long and I brought my ATB and sourdough bites, but it came time for lunch and we went to Legal Seafood.
I ordered very assertively b/c the server was like, "the salad you're ordering is all mixed together with a sesame dressing already... blah blah"-- I said:
"I don't want any oil--absolutely none, I just want grilled salmon on a bed of lettuce."
And that is what I got-- I would say the portion of salmon I was given was probably 6 to 7 oz and I ate half of it (around the size of a computer mouse, which JC says is 3oz)... I dipped my fork in the dressing 2 times. Oh, and I had 3 kalamata olives-- so I counted it as my lunch plus 2 limited extras.
I believe I got all of this right-- but see where the anxiety is coming from?
I mean, I know that these choices were healthy (maybe Friday night's dinner was too big-- probably not good that I was stuffed afterwards-- it didn't feel good either). But I am scared I won't lose any weight this week, and not getting on the scale is exacerbating the situation. That's really dumb-- I will lose or gain based on my behaviors. I will have to accept the consequences.
But I am back to "hitting" my JC menus "hard," as my JCC calls it (cute!).
I've also completed my promised exercise for the week already: I am still going easy and just expecting myself to do 3 times a week, 25 mins of cardio each workout. In fact, Saturday and Sunday, I put in an intense 30 minutes of cardio, followed by today-- a lighter upright bike for 25 minutes. LOVE having my promised exercise done by the first 3 days of the week.
Well-- the news will come on Friday (I think I'll have to get on the scale then... just to prepare myself for the Saturday weigh in...), by then the truth will be told as to whether I've made any weight progress or not.
It's all for learning anyway. I won't DIE if I don't lose weight afterall-- but I might be kicking myself a bit for the MOMO's and go very close to JC for a while longer (and not get too confident so fast, that is what is scaring me now-- too much confidence in my very fresh new eating habits).
Acceptance for now is key. "Forget regret, for life is yours to miss. No other way... no day but today."
good ole ticker...
Monday, January 29, 2007
Sunday, January 28, 2007
The truce with food
When I first began working with my nutritionist back in the beginning of 2006, she observed to me that I used alot of aggressive-type words to discuss my weight situation and attempts at weight reduction.
These included:
Struggle
War
Battle
Fight
Beat
I also had alot of all or nothing thinking phrases:
"once and for all"
"never again"
"it's over"
"finally"
I know that I tend to hyperbole to begin with, am quite dramatic etc and so forth-- but I am thinking about this history of mine-- and thinking of where I stand now.
The truce is ON!
I am not "struggling against," "battling," or "fighting off" food cravings. They are just not there. It is really kind of weird, to say the truth.
I am not thinking that I'll "never" have a big slab of chocoate cake again (if I choose,) or a large meal-- when I when. I just don't feel like it now. I don't think that "it's finally 'over,' " and I have "beat" the issues of my weight. I am not sure I will ever totally leave these behind-- but it's OK with me. That's not the point, because self-management is an everyday event. That's OK too. I kind of like the freedom of the self-management, if you can see how that might be. It's freeing to not constantly be considering whether I should or should not eat this or that.
I know what's healthy and what's not. It's all my choice in the end.
I realize that I am on a journey, and my feelings might change along the way.
But right now, I am just living my life, one day at a time, enjoying food and healthy activity. I am feeling light and free-- excited by the changes and healthier by the day.
Maybe there will "never" be another war? We'll have to see.
These included:
Struggle
War
Battle
Fight
Beat
I also had alot of all or nothing thinking phrases:
"once and for all"
"never again"
"it's over"
"finally"
I know that I tend to hyperbole to begin with, am quite dramatic etc and so forth-- but I am thinking about this history of mine-- and thinking of where I stand now.
The truce is ON!
I am not "struggling against," "battling," or "fighting off" food cravings. They are just not there. It is really kind of weird, to say the truth.
I am not thinking that I'll "never" have a big slab of chocoate cake again (if I choose,) or a large meal-- when I when. I just don't feel like it now. I don't think that "it's finally 'over,' " and I have "beat" the issues of my weight. I am not sure I will ever totally leave these behind-- but it's OK with me. That's not the point, because self-management is an everyday event. That's OK too. I kind of like the freedom of the self-management, if you can see how that might be. It's freeing to not constantly be considering whether I should or should not eat this or that.
I know what's healthy and what's not. It's all my choice in the end.
I realize that I am on a journey, and my feelings might change along the way.
But right now, I am just living my life, one day at a time, enjoying food and healthy activity. I am feeling light and free-- excited by the changes and healthier by the day.
Maybe there will "never" be another war? We'll have to see.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Me...only lighter
This is me shortly before I started JC.
This is me today, 10.5 pounds lighter.
I promised my JC consultant a 10 pounds off picture...so I figured I would share it with my dear readers!
I am proud-- and still completely motivated. It's exciting-- and regarding the scale, I am so relieved to not have to think about it again until next week. It's freeing. (She says today, hmmmm.)
This is me today, 10.5 pounds lighter.
I promised my JC consultant a 10 pounds off picture...so I figured I would share it with my dear readers!
I am proud-- and still completely motivated. It's exciting-- and regarding the scale, I am so relieved to not have to think about it again until next week. It's freeing. (She says today, hmmmm.)
The DAILY scale-- bah humbug
Hi, another 2 pounds down! Yay me!
I say this with just a tinge of sadness b/c of all of my scale drama this week.
I was totally back to "scalemastering" after I had committed (a while back) to stay off the scale, except weekly.
Well, if I learned anything this week, I learned that the DAILY scale is a nightmare for me-- and causes me unnecessary drama and bad feelings about myself.
Since I know that I am following my program, basically to the letter (a few changes, here or there-- but totally following the calories and healthy principles, on to that in a moment)... I know I will lose weight in the proper sequence.
Now that doesn't mean that I will continue this trend of 2 pounds per week. I just know that might not last... and I get lighter, my body may fight to keep the weight on and I might need to up my exercise or change something. A week or 2 (HORRIBLE thought, but possible) of no loss while following program might indicate that.
But so what really? I am doing this for a lasting change-- I am working for a new me, one that doesn't 'battle' with my weight or food-- but just exists.
I love food, I love to eat-- it's all about learning the truth of moderation and 'growing myself up' a little. You can't have brownies every day and be at your goal weight. But you can have wonderful healthy food that fuels your body, every single day-- terrific veggies, yummy fruit, and moderate portions of the extra yummy proteins, fats, simple carbs-- it can be done-- it's all about moderation.
Scalemastering is NOT moderation. It's just an obsessive gesture back towards the old me-- and here it STOPS. I'd like to say, once and for all-- but I can't. But at least I can commit for a WEEK to staying off the scale.
Now: I said I'd come onto my little changes to the JC program here and there and how I think they are OK.
For the most part, I eat all JC meals and basically do the plan as written (often swapping lunch for dinner, though-- but that is really totally on target according to JC.)
But, this week-- I traded in that "lemon cake" that I hate, but came with my started plan for 1 chocolate chip cookie. I believe the cake had 170 calories, and the cookie had 150-- so it was essentially the same calorie equivalent.
And it was a real and yummy cookie! MMMMMM
The other thing I did, which I think I will continue to do on occasion (moderation, all about moderation).. is that I traded in 1 fat, 1 fruit, and 1 limited extra (total cals= 150) for a glass of red wine (measured to equal 150 calories.)
Now, this is probably a bit more 'controversial' (if you will)-- but I'm not planning it every day, I know I need my fruits... but the JC program considers alcohol fat, since that is how it is processed in your liver, so I was half-right!
The 'diet' portion of the program doesn't allow for such items-- and I like an occasional glass of wine. Let me tell you: it tasted AWESOME.
I really appreciated the flavors, the aroma, and the sensual experience of drinking a glass of wine. It was wonderful and special and a bit of a treat-- and I'm going to do it again sometime soon... b/c there is no harm in it and I must learn moderation.
As anyone who might be reading might know: I am a perfectionist and NOT moderate about most things-- that is the challenge for me and my eating habits. The key for my continued JC success is learning all of these ways to be 'just right,' not perfect.
And I am on my way, every day. Even my bumps in the road (scalemaster this week) are learning experiences, and good ones at that.
I am feeling confident and calm. It is heavenly. Thank you JC-- and Thank you, Vanessa!
I say this with just a tinge of sadness b/c of all of my scale drama this week.
I was totally back to "scalemastering" after I had committed (a while back) to stay off the scale, except weekly.
Well, if I learned anything this week, I learned that the DAILY scale is a nightmare for me-- and causes me unnecessary drama and bad feelings about myself.
Since I know that I am following my program, basically to the letter (a few changes, here or there-- but totally following the calories and healthy principles, on to that in a moment)... I know I will lose weight in the proper sequence.
Now that doesn't mean that I will continue this trend of 2 pounds per week. I just know that might not last... and I get lighter, my body may fight to keep the weight on and I might need to up my exercise or change something. A week or 2 (HORRIBLE thought, but possible) of no loss while following program might indicate that.
But so what really? I am doing this for a lasting change-- I am working for a new me, one that doesn't 'battle' with my weight or food-- but just exists.
I love food, I love to eat-- it's all about learning the truth of moderation and 'growing myself up' a little. You can't have brownies every day and be at your goal weight. But you can have wonderful healthy food that fuels your body, every single day-- terrific veggies, yummy fruit, and moderate portions of the extra yummy proteins, fats, simple carbs-- it can be done-- it's all about moderation.
Scalemastering is NOT moderation. It's just an obsessive gesture back towards the old me-- and here it STOPS. I'd like to say, once and for all-- but I can't. But at least I can commit for a WEEK to staying off the scale.
Now: I said I'd come onto my little changes to the JC program here and there and how I think they are OK.
For the most part, I eat all JC meals and basically do the plan as written (often swapping lunch for dinner, though-- but that is really totally on target according to JC.)
But, this week-- I traded in that "lemon cake" that I hate, but came with my started plan for 1 chocolate chip cookie. I believe the cake had 170 calories, and the cookie had 150-- so it was essentially the same calorie equivalent.
And it was a real and yummy cookie! MMMMMM
The other thing I did, which I think I will continue to do on occasion (moderation, all about moderation).. is that I traded in 1 fat, 1 fruit, and 1 limited extra (total cals= 150) for a glass of red wine (measured to equal 150 calories.)
Now, this is probably a bit more 'controversial' (if you will)-- but I'm not planning it every day, I know I need my fruits... but the JC program considers alcohol fat, since that is how it is processed in your liver, so I was half-right!
The 'diet' portion of the program doesn't allow for such items-- and I like an occasional glass of wine. Let me tell you: it tasted AWESOME.
I really appreciated the flavors, the aroma, and the sensual experience of drinking a glass of wine. It was wonderful and special and a bit of a treat-- and I'm going to do it again sometime soon... b/c there is no harm in it and I must learn moderation.
As anyone who might be reading might know: I am a perfectionist and NOT moderate about most things-- that is the challenge for me and my eating habits. The key for my continued JC success is learning all of these ways to be 'just right,' not perfect.
And I am on my way, every day. Even my bumps in the road (scalemaster this week) are learning experiences, and good ones at that.
I am feeling confident and calm. It is heavenly. Thank you JC-- and Thank you, Vanessa!
Friday, January 26, 2007
Time to say goodbye
Today is my last day at my job where I've been for almost 6 years.
My work tenure at this small community hospital has been nothing short of an amazing time in my life.
Personally, I met and married Andre while working there, as well as having Jordan, returning from maternity leave in an amazing 5 weeks (pretty wild), bought and sold our first home... lots of my life happened!
I really loved my job, sure there were the typical frustrations and challenges of work. But I learned so many things and go to my next job really prepared to put everything I learned into fresh action.
The one drawback of being someplace for a while, especially while you are learning management skills, is that there are people who can remember the 'old' you. Ah well-- I've learned and grown. I am a much better manager than I ever was at the beginning. I am dedicated to the mentoring, growth and development of the people who work with me-- while still running a tight ship (as I've been told I do.)
I hope to exude an image of fairness and no-nonsense, while still keeping my human side at all times.
I am re-reading my Dale Carnegie, career changing tome: "How to win friends and influence people."
I recommend it to every human beings. The book can be absolutely life-changing.
My work tenure at this small community hospital has been nothing short of an amazing time in my life.
Personally, I met and married Andre while working there, as well as having Jordan, returning from maternity leave in an amazing 5 weeks (pretty wild), bought and sold our first home... lots of my life happened!
I really loved my job, sure there were the typical frustrations and challenges of work. But I learned so many things and go to my next job really prepared to put everything I learned into fresh action.
The one drawback of being someplace for a while, especially while you are learning management skills, is that there are people who can remember the 'old' you. Ah well-- I've learned and grown. I am a much better manager than I ever was at the beginning. I am dedicated to the mentoring, growth and development of the people who work with me-- while still running a tight ship (as I've been told I do.)
I hope to exude an image of fairness and no-nonsense, while still keeping my human side at all times.
I am re-reading my Dale Carnegie, career changing tome: "How to win friends and influence people."
I recommend it to every human beings. The book can be absolutely life-changing.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Cream(y) soup-- hold the cream
Here is a recipe for a yummy veggie soup that is "free" on JC (or any diet plan) and delish:
Pureed Asparagus Soup
Ingredients:
1 box frozen asparagus (defrosted)
1 large white onion
1-3 garlic bulb pieces
1 tbs. chicken boullion
Prep:
1. Coursely chop asparagus, white onion, and fresh garlic
2. Add vegetables, chicken boullion to large soup pot and add water to cover the mixture plus about 1 cup more
3. Bring to light boil.
4. Turn down heat, cover and simmer for 25 minutes.
5. CAREFULLY (watch for splatter that can burn, ouch)-- Transfer mixture into blender or food processor and puree
5a. For a thinner consistency-- add more water as desired and heat pureed soup with added water for an additional 5 to 10 minutes
VOILA-- enjoy
Pureed Asparagus Soup
Ingredients:
1 box frozen asparagus (defrosted)
1 large white onion
1-3 garlic bulb pieces
1 tbs. chicken boullion
Prep:
1. Coursely chop asparagus, white onion, and fresh garlic
2. Add vegetables, chicken boullion to large soup pot and add water to cover the mixture plus about 1 cup more
3. Bring to light boil.
4. Turn down heat, cover and simmer for 25 minutes.
5. CAREFULLY (watch for splatter that can burn, ouch)-- Transfer mixture into blender or food processor and puree
5a. For a thinner consistency-- add more water as desired and heat pureed soup with added water for an additional 5 to 10 minutes
VOILA-- enjoy
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Your'e hungry... now what?
Well, I'm experiencing my first crave-y and hungry afternoon today. Thinking about Mexican food (chips and guac.) for some reason-- maybe b/c our former babysitter is here visiting with Jordan. Last time she was here, I had the flu, and I was barely able to function-- I didn't eat anything and went to bed super early!
But Andre and she ordered Mexican with Jordan. Perhaps I'm wishing to make up for that lost meal?
Anyhow: it's almost 4PM, and of my planned JC food, I have my Anytime bar, 2/3rd of my chocolate graham pretzels, and Lasagna for dinner. I also have some milk leftover from breakfast (I get 1 cup of milk with breakfast and I usually save it for coffee through the day, occasionally, I will just drink the milk later in the day.)
Is this post boring?
Well: I decided to make myself some Mexican flavored pan spinach-- of course, a Jenny 'free preparation.'
Here's the recipe:
Baby spinach, lite soy sauce, chipotle pepper spice, lemon juice, olive oil Pam, onion and garlic powder
Combine all in pan and sautee-- eat, enjoy and satisfy cravings!
In other news: I am so excited to start my new job-- I have been working towards a shopping trip next Saturday, waiting until I lost the maximal weight I could prior to purchasing new clothes that I will likely wind up wearing for a while and then having to give away when the get too big!
Oh the drama... let me tell you, I will be very glad to give away my whole wardrobe in favor of smaller sizes. And this is to stay: no more gaining back. I have JC in my corner for 1 year, and I hope that I will be at my goal weight by May or June... the rest of the year will be working on maintanence and solidifying lifestyle change.
Onward.
But Andre and she ordered Mexican with Jordan. Perhaps I'm wishing to make up for that lost meal?
Anyhow: it's almost 4PM, and of my planned JC food, I have my Anytime bar, 2/3rd of my chocolate graham pretzels, and Lasagna for dinner. I also have some milk leftover from breakfast (I get 1 cup of milk with breakfast and I usually save it for coffee through the day, occasionally, I will just drink the milk later in the day.)
Is this post boring?
Well: I decided to make myself some Mexican flavored pan spinach-- of course, a Jenny 'free preparation.'
Here's the recipe:
Baby spinach, lite soy sauce, chipotle pepper spice, lemon juice, olive oil Pam, onion and garlic powder
Combine all in pan and sautee-- eat, enjoy and satisfy cravings!
In other news: I am so excited to start my new job-- I have been working towards a shopping trip next Saturday, waiting until I lost the maximal weight I could prior to purchasing new clothes that I will likely wind up wearing for a while and then having to give away when the get too big!
Oh the drama... let me tell you, I will be very glad to give away my whole wardrobe in favor of smaller sizes. And this is to stay: no more gaining back. I have JC in my corner for 1 year, and I hope that I will be at my goal weight by May or June... the rest of the year will be working on maintanence and solidifying lifestyle change.
Onward.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
I lost it!
I just love that show title on 'Discovery Health,' I know it's a direct reference to weight loss, but it cracks me up. I think of that phrase more as "I went completely bonkers!"
Anyhow: I am still going strong-- lost another 2.5 pounds on JC this week and I even had my first "MOMO" (meal on my own) yesterday. It was yummy sahsimi with just a bit of rice and a big salad. Delish.
That's a total of 8.5 pounds!
I guess I am in a silly mood b/c I am thinking everything is funny this morning-- I just love the 'language' of each diet. JC's language includes:
"MOMO" (as above)
"Win"-- defined as a success on your program
"Value Add"-- great traits that you have in your personality
I will think of more-- but this type of diet language is sort of 'cult' following oriented to me. It's only possible for me to partially buy in to using the language-- even if it's convenient and makes sense. A little skepticism is always good.
Anyhow: I am still going strong-- lost another 2.5 pounds on JC this week and I even had my first "MOMO" (meal on my own) yesterday. It was yummy sahsimi with just a bit of rice and a big salad. Delish.
That's a total of 8.5 pounds!
I guess I am in a silly mood b/c I am thinking everything is funny this morning-- I just love the 'language' of each diet. JC's language includes:
"MOMO" (as above)
"Win"-- defined as a success on your program
"Value Add"-- great traits that you have in your personality
I will think of more-- but this type of diet language is sort of 'cult' following oriented to me. It's only possible for me to partially buy in to using the language-- even if it's convenient and makes sense. A little skepticism is always good.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Excited and happy
I am feeling very good... things are still rolling along with JC, and I just posted to their website that I feel NO struggle against food.
How refreshing! Someone posted about 'binge triggers' (like foods that make you just want to eat more and more)-- and I posted back and said that I have the gamut in my home as we speak.
With Jordan here, we have all sorts of 'goodies'-- chocolate chip cookies, full fat cheese, peanut butter-- all things that have tempted me and slipped me up in the past.
But I am working on managing my hunger and keeping full with water and veggies and getting all of my JC food in there. It IS great modeling for me and I am still so happy for the structure. I have found myself wishing to go out to a restaurant now and again-- so I may look into this with my consultant. I know I could go to a restaurant at any time and just have a salad or steamed veggies... but I am wondering when is the right time to try ONE meal on my own.
I don't want to mess things up, but I also don't want to put pressure on myself for perfection. I am not perfect and I don't need to be to lose weight. I just need to follow the consistent program all layed out for me by JC!
I am also really excited about my new job. My old job is winding down and the new job is winding up. I met with my new boss and there are alot of exciting things ahead-- scary too-- there's alot to do and alot of it will just be up to me to decide and mold the department. But that is honestly stuff that I am really good at and that I love to do.
It's a great relief to know that I won't have to be thinking, what will I bring for lunch? Will I partake of the cookies in the break room (I think they have one on my floor...) etc. The answer is: JC lunches come with me, along with my snacks and fresh fruits... and NO off plan snacking. It's easy and wonderful.
Onward, and looking forward to my week 3 weigh in.
PS: I have been back on the scale, but it's not quite as obsessive-- it looks like I am currently down 1 pound, I will take it.
I have sort of wondered whether I might slow to a pound a week once the true fat loss kicks in, and though that makes me a slight bit bummed, I know this is good for the long haul to be patient and measured in the weight loss process. It is also the process where I am retraining myself, my gut, and my mind for permanent lifestyle eating success!
How refreshing! Someone posted about 'binge triggers' (like foods that make you just want to eat more and more)-- and I posted back and said that I have the gamut in my home as we speak.
With Jordan here, we have all sorts of 'goodies'-- chocolate chip cookies, full fat cheese, peanut butter-- all things that have tempted me and slipped me up in the past.
But I am working on managing my hunger and keeping full with water and veggies and getting all of my JC food in there. It IS great modeling for me and I am still so happy for the structure. I have found myself wishing to go out to a restaurant now and again-- so I may look into this with my consultant. I know I could go to a restaurant at any time and just have a salad or steamed veggies... but I am wondering when is the right time to try ONE meal on my own.
I don't want to mess things up, but I also don't want to put pressure on myself for perfection. I am not perfect and I don't need to be to lose weight. I just need to follow the consistent program all layed out for me by JC!
I am also really excited about my new job. My old job is winding down and the new job is winding up. I met with my new boss and there are alot of exciting things ahead-- scary too-- there's alot to do and alot of it will just be up to me to decide and mold the department. But that is honestly stuff that I am really good at and that I love to do.
It's a great relief to know that I won't have to be thinking, what will I bring for lunch? Will I partake of the cookies in the break room (I think they have one on my floor...) etc. The answer is: JC lunches come with me, along with my snacks and fresh fruits... and NO off plan snacking. It's easy and wonderful.
Onward, and looking forward to my week 3 weigh in.
PS: I have been back on the scale, but it's not quite as obsessive-- it looks like I am currently down 1 pound, I will take it.
I have sort of wondered whether I might slow to a pound a week once the true fat loss kicks in, and though that makes me a slight bit bummed, I know this is good for the long haul to be patient and measured in the weight loss process. It is also the process where I am retraining myself, my gut, and my mind for permanent lifestyle eating success!
Monday, January 15, 2007
Note to self
I just posted on the JC board to a woman who is having a problem that I might have down the line. I hope I can remember to return to it if the going ever gets tough for me on my program.
Right now, I am so committed, I cannot see that happening-- but that is quite dangerous. Noone is perfect, and I suffer from perfectionism syndrome-- I don't want to 'give it all up' if I make one screw up or something...
but the truth is that JC is just so easy for me right now. It is so the thing I needed to get myself together. The structure/ modeling of proper portions, spreading out meals effectively, combining lots of veggies with smaller amounts of carbs and proteins is just the trick. Well, I am living for today, and today is abfab-- I am working it!
The great thing about the JC board is that all of these people are expressing concerns that I might say myself, or are saying stuff that might come up later for me-- it's like signs in the road for me so that I can avoid an accident!
It's so good and inspiring to go there and see the daily struggles that others face-- of course, it's nice to be in it with others.
So here's the post:
She said:
Hi everyone,I've been on this program for about 10 weeks now, 20 pounds down and 20 more to go. For some reason I gained a pound this week, and I just feel like I'm in a rut all of a sudden. I did the same exercise/eating routine as usual, so now I'm frustrated and worried that this is going to become a weekly thing.
I replied:
1) You've been on program for 10 weeks-- have you gotten lazy and done anything that might be adding calories (like not measuring your limited extras?)
2) Are you doing MOMO's now? Maybe your measurements are off?
[meals on my own]
3) If you are doing all JC food: are you absolutely CERTAIN that you are not doing any BLT's around family/ friends/ kids (bites, licks, and tastes)-- those can add up!
4) Have you accommodated to your exercise routine and are you just 'phoning it in?' In order to continue to burn fat consistently-- your program must be increased in intensity (full on sweaty workout at least 3 times per week) for your needs.
I am not blaming you, only asking you to really examine what is happening here... we can do alot of denial that gets in our way and causes us to think we've gotten stuck, when we're really just digging our own grave instead.
My advice:
1) Up the intensity of your workouts (if you are working out 3 days, add another day or add 10 minutes to each workout this week)
2) Measure yourself and make sure you haven't taken off inches and just getting the old "scale lying" that H** W*** always speaks of and links to
3) Increase your intake of water and maybe take some water with lemon juice, choose grapefruit for fruit some of the time and eat asparagus-- all natural diuretics.
4) If you are not already (or if you used to and stopped)-- write down EVERY MORSEL OF FOOD AND EVERY DRINK you put into your mouth... this will help you check and see if you've actually reached some sort of plateau state-- or if you're unknowingly 'cheating'
5) Check with your JCC consultant-- are your JC meals all at the higher end of the calorie scale, there are low end and high end calorie foods-- try to choose foods that you enjoy that are on the lower end for a week or 2.
I wish you the best and am in my 3rd week now, I am writing this post to you but also to myself for when and if I reach a plateau.
Keep up the hard work and your body will respond
Right now, I am so committed, I cannot see that happening-- but that is quite dangerous. Noone is perfect, and I suffer from perfectionism syndrome-- I don't want to 'give it all up' if I make one screw up or something...
but the truth is that JC is just so easy for me right now. It is so the thing I needed to get myself together. The structure/ modeling of proper portions, spreading out meals effectively, combining lots of veggies with smaller amounts of carbs and proteins is just the trick. Well, I am living for today, and today is abfab-- I am working it!
The great thing about the JC board is that all of these people are expressing concerns that I might say myself, or are saying stuff that might come up later for me-- it's like signs in the road for me so that I can avoid an accident!
It's so good and inspiring to go there and see the daily struggles that others face-- of course, it's nice to be in it with others.
So here's the post:
She said:
Hi everyone,I've been on this program for about 10 weeks now, 20 pounds down and 20 more to go. For some reason I gained a pound this week, and I just feel like I'm in a rut all of a sudden. I did the same exercise/eating routine as usual, so now I'm frustrated and worried that this is going to become a weekly thing.
I replied:
1) You've been on program for 10 weeks-- have you gotten lazy and done anything that might be adding calories (like not measuring your limited extras?)
2) Are you doing MOMO's now? Maybe your measurements are off?
[meals on my own]
3) If you are doing all JC food: are you absolutely CERTAIN that you are not doing any BLT's around family/ friends/ kids (bites, licks, and tastes)-- those can add up!
4) Have you accommodated to your exercise routine and are you just 'phoning it in?' In order to continue to burn fat consistently-- your program must be increased in intensity (full on sweaty workout at least 3 times per week) for your needs.
I am not blaming you, only asking you to really examine what is happening here... we can do alot of denial that gets in our way and causes us to think we've gotten stuck, when we're really just digging our own grave instead.
My advice:
1) Up the intensity of your workouts (if you are working out 3 days, add another day or add 10 minutes to each workout this week)
2) Measure yourself and make sure you haven't taken off inches and just getting the old "scale lying" that H** W*** always speaks of and links to
3) Increase your intake of water and maybe take some water with lemon juice, choose grapefruit for fruit some of the time and eat asparagus-- all natural diuretics.
4) If you are not already (or if you used to and stopped)-- write down EVERY MORSEL OF FOOD AND EVERY DRINK you put into your mouth... this will help you check and see if you've actually reached some sort of plateau state-- or if you're unknowingly 'cheating'
5) Check with your JCC consultant-- are your JC meals all at the higher end of the calorie scale, there are low end and high end calorie foods-- try to choose foods that you enjoy that are on the lower end for a week or 2.
I wish you the best and am in my 3rd week now, I am writing this post to you but also to myself for when and if I reach a plateau.
Keep up the hard work and your body will respond
Goofy fun
I am pretty certain that I'm making changes-- silly changes, but important ones, like embracing some goofy fun stuff I'd have rejected in the past for I don't know what reason. Too mature, but mature enough to gorge on a big meal to satisfy a need for comfort and fun???
I was in the gym this morning and can see the changes already happening in my abdomen... I start to see the muscle definition on my sides almost immediately when I start working out (doesn't mean that there isn't a good bit of padding over it, but still...).
Anyhow: I was proud.
So, I went food shopping this morning (another win: almost ALL my shopping was on the OUTER portions of the store, that means fresh foods and of course, a ton of veggies). I bought these cute little stick on tatoos-- flowers and hearts, and I put one on my abs. (Right hand side). I tried to take a picture, but it came out too weird.
I'm glad I'm having fun and it's not in the form of a plate of pasta, a brownie, fast food, or Cold Stone Creamery!
I was in the gym this morning and can see the changes already happening in my abdomen... I start to see the muscle definition on my sides almost immediately when I start working out (doesn't mean that there isn't a good bit of padding over it, but still...).
Anyhow: I was proud.
So, I went food shopping this morning (another win: almost ALL my shopping was on the OUTER portions of the store, that means fresh foods and of course, a ton of veggies). I bought these cute little stick on tatoos-- flowers and hearts, and I put one on my abs. (Right hand side). I tried to take a picture, but it came out too weird.
I'm glad I'm having fun and it's not in the form of a plate of pasta, a brownie, fast food, or Cold Stone Creamery!
Sunday, January 14, 2007
A Win!
In JC talk, a "win" is where you make an accomplishment towards your healthy lifestyle choices.
I've had many wins in the past 2 weeks-- but a big win was sticking to my program tonight when we went to have dinner at our friends' home.
They are good friends, so I just brought my JC entree along, ate salad, and even had my ATB for dessert-- all while they ate spaghetti and meatballs and tiramisu.
I must say to myself: You go girl!
I will reach my goals for sure-- I am proud of myself and my wins.
I've had many wins in the past 2 weeks-- but a big win was sticking to my program tonight when we went to have dinner at our friends' home.
They are good friends, so I just brought my JC entree along, ate salad, and even had my ATB for dessert-- all while they ate spaghetti and meatballs and tiramisu.
I must say to myself: You go girl!
I will reach my goals for sure-- I am proud of myself and my wins.
Release from the scale...and a recipe
What a relief... it's nice to not have to worry about getting on and off and the number and how I'll feel and etc and so forth.
Of course, I'm staying very honest about my JC program and exercising as I promised to Christine, my JC consultant. She was perfect on Saturday-- she asked me about my exercise for last week, and when I told her I hadn't done what I'd committed to (but I walked alot!) she called me on the carpet!
She had me make 3 exercise appointments with myself and tell her the times (I chose Sat, Sun, and Mon). I wouldn't typically choose exercise days right in a row, but I knew I could get it in b/c of the long weekend. So, I've now completed 2/3rds of my committment, just one more workout tomorrow and I will be complete in my promise.
Exercise is definitely key to keeping the metabolism stoked and also burning off a few hundred extra calories per week as my body tries to hang onto the fat. Well, with all due respect: nothing doing-- the fat is going to be melted off!
Another great JC friendly veggie recipe I ate last evening:
1 package of defrosted chopped spinach (drained)
garlic and onion powder to taste
dash of kosher salt, dash of lite soy sauce
1/8 cup of skim milk or 1 tbs ff creamer
ranch dressing (could use 1/2 a packet of Jenny's dressing)-- but I very carefully measured out real ranch
Mix together in bowl, pour into oven safe dish and place in 350 degree oven for 30 minutes.
Voila: yummy 'creamed' type spinach-- a perfect side dish for virtually any JC dinner!
Of course, I'm staying very honest about my JC program and exercising as I promised to Christine, my JC consultant. She was perfect on Saturday-- she asked me about my exercise for last week, and when I told her I hadn't done what I'd committed to (but I walked alot!) she called me on the carpet!
She had me make 3 exercise appointments with myself and tell her the times (I chose Sat, Sun, and Mon). I wouldn't typically choose exercise days right in a row, but I knew I could get it in b/c of the long weekend. So, I've now completed 2/3rds of my committment, just one more workout tomorrow and I will be complete in my promise.
Exercise is definitely key to keeping the metabolism stoked and also burning off a few hundred extra calories per week as my body tries to hang onto the fat. Well, with all due respect: nothing doing-- the fat is going to be melted off!
Another great JC friendly veggie recipe I ate last evening:
1 package of defrosted chopped spinach (drained)
garlic and onion powder to taste
dash of kosher salt, dash of lite soy sauce
1/8 cup of skim milk or 1 tbs ff creamer
ranch dressing (could use 1/2 a packet of Jenny's dressing)-- but I very carefully measured out real ranch
Mix together in bowl, pour into oven safe dish and place in 350 degree oven for 30 minutes.
Voila: yummy 'creamed' type spinach-- a perfect side dish for virtually any JC dinner!
Saturday, January 13, 2007
More Success! and Scale sober x 7 days
I lost another 2 pounds y'all!
I am feeling so good about my progress and so strong with this program-- it is so right for me and I have everything in place to do what I need to do.
I find myself having momentary thoughts of-- oh, I wish I could go and just eat anything I like, hard to describe, exactly, but they are not hunger thoughts.
The fact is, I am really not hungry most of the time. Interesting. I guess I am feeding my body what it needs and enough volume to do the trick of keeping my metabolism ticking, for now.
Noodles, from JC, has worried that 1200 calories might ruin our metabolisms and keep them lowered permanently-- and I agree with the concern a bit. But at the same time, though I won't be eating JC meals for the rest of my life, I know that I'll have to keep my portions about this size (in terms of protein and carbs) in order to maintain my true weight (which we all know is 136.)
That's how I'm looking at it from here on, my true weight is 136, and I am currently at another weight, higher, and that is OK b/c that's where I am right now-- the perfect place for myself to teach and learn and ponder the ways to live a healthy life. Each day making new choices and steps towards my truer self.
It's good to stop hating / doubting myself about food and my choices, it's definitely freeing to feel completely UN-tempted by a plateful of cookies and cakes (weird, though.) I cannot explain it exactly, but it's like I know I am making my choices for my reasons. I'm not even missing out b/c of all of the yummy JC treats that I get to have.
It seems like they alternate a sweet and a savory 'snack' at the end of the day-- that is training to me that dessert is not every day, but some days, even alot of days if I want it and fit it in right. There's also the inevitable focus on veggies, and fruit and milk servings-- I am just loving the program, can you tell?
I want to get in some more 'intentional' exercise this week to be sure to ramp up my metabolism further. I only did 2 20 minute sessions this week, where I changed clothes and worked out b/c of some intervening circumstances. I am only 'allowed' to do 25 minutes of cardio 3 times this week by Andre (and my agreement) b/c of my tendency to overexercise and then hurt myself... but I would like to get those short sessions in.
Just to congratulate myself though: I am walking up a total STORM-- not only do I get off the PATH train a stop earlier and walk further to that stop each day, but I walk the stairs at most opportunities, and just get up and down alot more at work instead of sitting on my butt. These are all small changes that I know will help me b/c every calorie burned is another one that my body can't use to hang onto FAT!
And one more thing: I am committing to staying OFF the scale completely this week. I've been jumping on and off that thing like it's a friggin' stairmaster-- and I try not to do it in front of Jordan-- scared he'll see me doing it and think that I person should be on the scale constantly.
Not to mention it's just stupid and plain terrible for me to see the numbers fluctuate. I know myself and I know my body-- and I know that I am at a point where I can hope for about a 1 to 2 pound weight loss per week and that's it. It's not going to show up on the scale on a daily basis anymore, so it only serves to upset me and possibly derail my progress.
So here's to melting off at least another pound this week-- and sticking with JC as written... onward.
I am feeling so good about my progress and so strong with this program-- it is so right for me and I have everything in place to do what I need to do.
I find myself having momentary thoughts of-- oh, I wish I could go and just eat anything I like, hard to describe, exactly, but they are not hunger thoughts.
The fact is, I am really not hungry most of the time. Interesting. I guess I am feeding my body what it needs and enough volume to do the trick of keeping my metabolism ticking, for now.
Noodles, from JC, has worried that 1200 calories might ruin our metabolisms and keep them lowered permanently-- and I agree with the concern a bit. But at the same time, though I won't be eating JC meals for the rest of my life, I know that I'll have to keep my portions about this size (in terms of protein and carbs) in order to maintain my true weight (which we all know is 136.)
That's how I'm looking at it from here on, my true weight is 136, and I am currently at another weight, higher, and that is OK b/c that's where I am right now-- the perfect place for myself to teach and learn and ponder the ways to live a healthy life. Each day making new choices and steps towards my truer self.
It's good to stop hating / doubting myself about food and my choices, it's definitely freeing to feel completely UN-tempted by a plateful of cookies and cakes (weird, though.) I cannot explain it exactly, but it's like I know I am making my choices for my reasons. I'm not even missing out b/c of all of the yummy JC treats that I get to have.
It seems like they alternate a sweet and a savory 'snack' at the end of the day-- that is training to me that dessert is not every day, but some days, even alot of days if I want it and fit it in right. There's also the inevitable focus on veggies, and fruit and milk servings-- I am just loving the program, can you tell?
I want to get in some more 'intentional' exercise this week to be sure to ramp up my metabolism further. I only did 2 20 minute sessions this week, where I changed clothes and worked out b/c of some intervening circumstances. I am only 'allowed' to do 25 minutes of cardio 3 times this week by Andre (and my agreement) b/c of my tendency to overexercise and then hurt myself... but I would like to get those short sessions in.
Just to congratulate myself though: I am walking up a total STORM-- not only do I get off the PATH train a stop earlier and walk further to that stop each day, but I walk the stairs at most opportunities, and just get up and down alot more at work instead of sitting on my butt. These are all small changes that I know will help me b/c every calorie burned is another one that my body can't use to hang onto FAT!
And one more thing: I am committing to staying OFF the scale completely this week. I've been jumping on and off that thing like it's a friggin' stairmaster-- and I try not to do it in front of Jordan-- scared he'll see me doing it and think that I person should be on the scale constantly.
Not to mention it's just stupid and plain terrible for me to see the numbers fluctuate. I know myself and I know my body-- and I know that I am at a point where I can hope for about a 1 to 2 pound weight loss per week and that's it. It's not going to show up on the scale on a daily basis anymore, so it only serves to upset me and possibly derail my progress.
So here's to melting off at least another pound this week-- and sticking with JC as written... onward.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
The "Redbook" Photoshoot
So, here is a home shot of my hair/ makeup job (several hours later and without professional lighting!) at the Redbook Shoot.
It was completely and totally fun... I got to be a model and the experience was one of a lifetime.
Full hair and makeup job, photographer and 'wind' guy with a fan-- it was so much fun. They provided all sorts of different white tank tops for us, so I came home with a variety!
I was shocked and amazed at the level of attractiveness of the group of 10 women chosen-- also honored to be among them.
It was a real glamour-girl kind of day and a great ego boost.
The way it will work is that this is a new column for Redbook called "Beauty Lineup" and they will run it every other month. They are planning a FULL PAGE feature on each of the "models" (i.e. real women) photo'd today-- they will publish the headshot and an interview with each of us. They will also photograph the products that we said we use...
The way we'll know when our issue will be coming up is that they will be contacting us for interview, fact checking etc etc etc. Who knows when my number will be up, but the first issue is April 2007.
There was one woman who was a dead ringer for Eva Longoria, my bet is on her to be first, but who knows?
Oh: and in case you're wondering-- the shoot was fully catered but I was totally on track with JC. I saved my cereal for my lunch and had it with some reduced fat milk! So easy and there was literally NO temptation for me with the mounds of cookies and blondies at the catering table-- I just took a water and a diet coke and got on with my life.
(They actually had a salad too-- but I didn't want to get any in my teeth!)
Food for the soul...
One of the JC board posters was kind enough to post a list of affirmations and inspiring slogans that I just loved, here are some of my favorites, my special favorites are bolded:
"The difference between try and triumph is just a little umph!" ~ Marvin Phillips
"The road to success is dotted with many tempting parking places" ~ Unknown
"If you don't want to do something, one excuse is as good as another" ~ Yiddish Proverb
"A person who aims at nothing is sure to hit it" ~ Unknown
"All that we are is the result of what we have thought" ~ Buddha
"Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all" ~ Dale Carnegie
"I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who conquers his enemies; for the hardest victory is the victory over self" ~ Aristotle
"Failure is the path of least persistence" ~ Unknown
”Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments” ~ Jim Rohn
”Self-respect is the fruit of discipline: the sense of dignity grows with the ability to say no to oneself” ~ Abraham Heschel
“We never repent of having eaten too little” ~ Thomas Jefferson
“Gluttony is an emotional escape, a sign something is eating us” ~ Peter De Vries
“Your body is the baggage you must carry through life. The more excess the baggage, the shorter the trip” ~ Arnold H. Glasgow
“Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections” ~ Saint Francis de Sales
“Never, never, never quit” ~ Winston Churchill
“The tragedy in life doesn't lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach” ~ Benjamin Mays
“Victory belongs to the most persevering” ~ Napoleon
"If you want to know the past, to know what has caused you, look at yourself in the PRESENT, for that is the past's effect. If you want to know your future, then look at yourself in the PRESENT, for that is the cause of the future” ~ Majjhima Nikaya
"It is easy to dodge our responsibilities, but we cannot dodge the consequences of dodging our responsibilities” ~ Sir Josiah Stamp
"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. " - Anais Nin
"It's not falling off the wagon that causes us to avoid success, it's staying off".
"Don't let your successes go to your head, or failures go to your heart."
The dictionary is the only place where Success comes before Work
That which we persist in doing becomes easier - not that the nature of the task has changed, but our ability to do has increased. - Emerson
'I'm not where I need to be, but Thank God I'm not where I used to be.'
"The difference between try and triumph is just a little umph!" ~ Marvin Phillips
"The road to success is dotted with many tempting parking places" ~ Unknown
"If you don't want to do something, one excuse is as good as another" ~ Yiddish Proverb
"A person who aims at nothing is sure to hit it" ~ Unknown
"All that we are is the result of what we have thought" ~ Buddha
"Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all" ~ Dale Carnegie
"I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who conquers his enemies; for the hardest victory is the victory over self" ~ Aristotle
"Failure is the path of least persistence" ~ Unknown
”Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments” ~ Jim Rohn
”Self-respect is the fruit of discipline: the sense of dignity grows with the ability to say no to oneself” ~ Abraham Heschel
“We never repent of having eaten too little” ~ Thomas Jefferson
“Gluttony is an emotional escape, a sign something is eating us” ~ Peter De Vries
“Your body is the baggage you must carry through life. The more excess the baggage, the shorter the trip” ~ Arnold H. Glasgow
“Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections” ~ Saint Francis de Sales
“Never, never, never quit” ~ Winston Churchill
“The tragedy in life doesn't lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach” ~ Benjamin Mays
“Victory belongs to the most persevering” ~ Napoleon
"If you want to know the past, to know what has caused you, look at yourself in the PRESENT, for that is the past's effect. If you want to know your future, then look at yourself in the PRESENT, for that is the cause of the future” ~ Majjhima Nikaya
"It is easy to dodge our responsibilities, but we cannot dodge the consequences of dodging our responsibilities” ~ Sir Josiah Stamp
"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. " - Anais Nin
"It's not falling off the wagon that causes us to avoid success, it's staying off".
"Don't let your successes go to your head, or failures go to your heart."
The dictionary is the only place where Success comes before Work
That which we persist in doing becomes easier - not that the nature of the task has changed, but our ability to do has increased. - Emerson
'I'm not where I need to be, but Thank God I'm not where I used to be.'
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
My uniform...
** Surprise rant at the bottom of this post**
When I was about 10 years old, I got a sweat-suit that I loved so much, I wore it all the time! I remember my parents calling it my 'uniform.'
Since then, I've noticed, I love to have a uniform, and I've been thinking about it in terms of my weight goals and everything else.
Even though I'm older now-- I still have certain 'uniforms' that I love to wear.
I've always been a 'classic type' dresser, so my uniform is typically something that won't change too much over the years. I have added dresses to my work wardrobe-- but maybe b/c I'm feeling not too great about my weight lately, haven't worn those as much.
Right now I am wearing a cozy white cable knit sweater and (what else) black pants-- which is an essential part of the uniform. I don't know if this will EVER CHANGE, no matter what size I reach.
Most of all, I love to be comfortable and cozy.
This post is kind of dumb and boring but I wanted to say something today other than weight or complaining about the scale.
**Now I get to ranting and raving about the scale-- my weight was up by a pound this morning. I know, that is what I get for being on the scale constantly-- I will soon have to commit to putting the scale away for days at a time, I know this... but I am as addicted as a crack addict to those numbers.
I'm in kind of a blue funk today and I can think of no other reason than the stupid scale. Especially annoying since I've been following my plan to the letter and done everything on program. Oh heck-- I know I'll lose weight if I stick to it, but it's not always linear. I just was hoping to be one of those JC'ers that they have on the boards who have a loss in their signature every week straight for like, 15 weeks at a time. Ah fantasy...
When I was about 10 years old, I got a sweat-suit that I loved so much, I wore it all the time! I remember my parents calling it my 'uniform.'
Since then, I've noticed, I love to have a uniform, and I've been thinking about it in terms of my weight goals and everything else.
Even though I'm older now-- I still have certain 'uniforms' that I love to wear.
I've always been a 'classic type' dresser, so my uniform is typically something that won't change too much over the years. I have added dresses to my work wardrobe-- but maybe b/c I'm feeling not too great about my weight lately, haven't worn those as much.
Right now I am wearing a cozy white cable knit sweater and (what else) black pants-- which is an essential part of the uniform. I don't know if this will EVER CHANGE, no matter what size I reach.
Most of all, I love to be comfortable and cozy.
This post is kind of dumb and boring but I wanted to say something today other than weight or complaining about the scale.
**Now I get to ranting and raving about the scale-- my weight was up by a pound this morning. I know, that is what I get for being on the scale constantly-- I will soon have to commit to putting the scale away for days at a time, I know this... but I am as addicted as a crack addict to those numbers.
I'm in kind of a blue funk today and I can think of no other reason than the stupid scale. Especially annoying since I've been following my plan to the letter and done everything on program. Oh heck-- I know I'll lose weight if I stick to it, but it's not always linear. I just was hoping to be one of those JC'ers that they have on the boards who have a loss in their signature every week straight for like, 15 weeks at a time. Ah fantasy...
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Do-Re-Mi... back to the very beginning!
Let's talk veggies!
It seems that I am always inspired by the JC board posts to put something on my blog.
I titled this post: 'back to the beginning' because I'm back to recipes... but this time for yummy veggies.
Just would like to share a couple favorite recipes:
ENOKI MUSHROOMS
I love these.. they are a 'boutique' veggie and expensive, but so good and worth it.
I cut off the stems, saute in lite soy sauce, garlic and onion powder.
Fun to eat with chopsticks.
CHIPOTLE OVEN ROASTED PEPPERS
Use yellow, green, red, and or orange peppers, slice into 1/8th-- spray a cookie sheet lightly with "Pam" (any 'flavor') and spray the peppers lightly with Pam.
Pour on garlic, onion, and chipotle powder to taste (it's SPICY!). I also like to use a little Kosher salt for extra flavor.
OVEN ROASTED BRUSSEL SPROUTS
Frozen brussel sprouts are fine!
Defrost and cut each sprout in 2.
Toss in a bowl with your favorite spices and a small bit of Olive Oil (or just use some fat free cooking spray if you're concerned...)
Roast in 450 oven on cookie sheet for 30 minutes!
MMMMM
Enjoy your veggies!
It seems that I am always inspired by the JC board posts to put something on my blog.
I titled this post: 'back to the beginning' because I'm back to recipes... but this time for yummy veggies.
Just would like to share a couple favorite recipes:
ENOKI MUSHROOMS
I love these.. they are a 'boutique' veggie and expensive, but so good and worth it.
I cut off the stems, saute in lite soy sauce, garlic and onion powder.
Fun to eat with chopsticks.
CHIPOTLE OVEN ROASTED PEPPERS
Use yellow, green, red, and or orange peppers, slice into 1/8th-- spray a cookie sheet lightly with "Pam" (any 'flavor') and spray the peppers lightly with Pam.
Pour on garlic, onion, and chipotle powder to taste (it's SPICY!). I also like to use a little Kosher salt for extra flavor.
OVEN ROASTED BRUSSEL SPROUTS
Frozen brussel sprouts are fine!
Defrost and cut each sprout in 2.
Toss in a bowl with your favorite spices and a small bit of Olive Oil (or just use some fat free cooking spray if you're concerned...)
Roast in 450 oven on cookie sheet for 30 minutes!
MMMMM
Enjoy your veggies!
Digging for buried treasure
A woman who has reached and maintained her goal (looking great! I might add) on JC posted this inspiring advice-- I am taking it to heart.
Thank you LJL!
"This time my goal was to "uncover" the skinny girl I knew was already there. I visualized exactly how I looked at my goal, down to what I was wearing, how I was feeling and going through my daily life as that skinny girl - the way the air smelled, the feeling of the sun on my skin, everything.
AT NO POINT DURING MY JENNY CRAIG JOURNEY DID I *ever* NEED WILLPOWER, because in my head I was already a skinny girl and there was never any temptation because my skinny self wanted to be uncovered and my conscious and subconscious self would do anything to make physical reality match my mental reality.
It was EASY to lose this weight, it really was. To add incentive I found pictures of women who inspired me (here on this board too) and those in magazines and I ripped them out and posted them up where I could always see them.
I looked at my Jenny Craig journey like I was digging for a buried treasure: I knew it was there, all I was doing was uncovering it!
The difference in goals may sound like only semantics but it really was profound. Visualization was the key to my success, as well as surrounding myself with reminders of what I wanted.
And remember that the trick with visualization is to visualize the goal as what you are now, not as something to reach in the future. This is what causes the discrepancy between your mental reality and your current physical reality - which your brain will help you to reconcile by helping you to reach your goal. I hope this helps someone who may be struggling! Change the way you think about what you want, and it just may change your life.
Thank you LJL!
"This time my goal was to "uncover" the skinny girl I knew was already there. I visualized exactly how I looked at my goal, down to what I was wearing, how I was feeling and going through my daily life as that skinny girl - the way the air smelled, the feeling of the sun on my skin, everything.
AT NO POINT DURING MY JENNY CRAIG JOURNEY DID I *ever* NEED WILLPOWER, because in my head I was already a skinny girl and there was never any temptation because my skinny self wanted to be uncovered and my conscious and subconscious self would do anything to make physical reality match my mental reality.
It was EASY to lose this weight, it really was. To add incentive I found pictures of women who inspired me (here on this board too) and those in magazines and I ripped them out and posted them up where I could always see them.
I looked at my Jenny Craig journey like I was digging for a buried treasure: I knew it was there, all I was doing was uncovering it!
The difference in goals may sound like only semantics but it really was profound. Visualization was the key to my success, as well as surrounding myself with reminders of what I wanted.
And remember that the trick with visualization is to visualize the goal as what you are now, not as something to reach in the future. This is what causes the discrepancy between your mental reality and your current physical reality - which your brain will help you to reconcile by helping you to reach your goal. I hope this helps someone who may be struggling! Change the way you think about what you want, and it just may change your life.
Monday, January 08, 2007
Rainy day blahs
I feel blah today-- the weather is definitely a component-- and also the knowledge that I will be leaving this job of mine that I've had for almost 6 years.
I am excited for the new challenges, but it's always hard to leave my comfort zone. I feel extra glad that I have the JC program right now to structure out my eating so that there is nothing to chance at the moment.
I am so at the beginning of re-training my mind and body with new habits, it's absolutely feeling more natural and normal, but at the same time, I would be kidding myself to think I'm so adjusted (after 9 days) to just go back to eating on my own and I'd do great.
HAH!
In fact, one of my bigger concerns is that I want to make sure that my next JC shipment arrives on time. The JC Direct service has been unimpressive to say the very least... in fact, I think I will call them now-- I would rather if they sent the damn food EARLY so that I knew it was there than to have it delay for a day.
bye now
I am excited for the new challenges, but it's always hard to leave my comfort zone. I feel extra glad that I have the JC program right now to structure out my eating so that there is nothing to chance at the moment.
I am so at the beginning of re-training my mind and body with new habits, it's absolutely feeling more natural and normal, but at the same time, I would be kidding myself to think I'm so adjusted (after 9 days) to just go back to eating on my own and I'd do great.
HAH!
In fact, one of my bigger concerns is that I want to make sure that my next JC shipment arrives on time. The JC Direct service has been unimpressive to say the very least... in fact, I think I will call them now-- I would rather if they sent the damn food EARLY so that I knew it was there than to have it delay for a day.
bye now
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Success!
I lost 4 pounds this week-- awesome.
Now I now that this kind of weight loss won't last-- I'll be lucky to sustain a 2 pound per week weight loss once I 'stabilize' and stop losing water weight.
But I am really proud of me.
The thing is that JC is really easy if you just do what they say... I want to give myself alot of credit, I am doing everything they say to do-- I am being a 'good girl.'
As a little celebration of me yesterday, I bought myself a bunch of fun fashion and gossip mags to read over the weekend. Kind of decadant and UN-practical-- but I'm worth it.
That's really the goal for me. I want to find ways to downplay food (it can be one of life's sensual pleasures, but just not as a hobby most days of the week!) while enjoying stuff I might of 'deprived' myself of in the past.
I almost think that I've been very much on a diet of not taking care of myself well enough- no wonder I was hungry. And our society does not help one bit by making food so easily accessible and there being so many mixed messages about food.
Eat! Lose Weight! Anorexia is terrible! Let's celebrate Nicole Richie's 80 pound frame (while we know it's bad-- don't we love to see the transformations?) How disgusting that we can see her bones, get her a sandwich.
All you can eat! Trim Spa!
Blech.
I am proud to say that I'm not buying into the waif thing-- my ultimate goal is very reasonable for my frame, and most of all-- and much more than wanting to be skinny-- I want to get off of the yo-yo dieting train.
I hate it, and I am taking steps to never set foot on it again, one day at a time.
Now I now that this kind of weight loss won't last-- I'll be lucky to sustain a 2 pound per week weight loss once I 'stabilize' and stop losing water weight.
But I am really proud of me.
The thing is that JC is really easy if you just do what they say... I want to give myself alot of credit, I am doing everything they say to do-- I am being a 'good girl.'
As a little celebration of me yesterday, I bought myself a bunch of fun fashion and gossip mags to read over the weekend. Kind of decadant and UN-practical-- but I'm worth it.
That's really the goal for me. I want to find ways to downplay food (it can be one of life's sensual pleasures, but just not as a hobby most days of the week!) while enjoying stuff I might of 'deprived' myself of in the past.
I almost think that I've been very much on a diet of not taking care of myself well enough- no wonder I was hungry. And our society does not help one bit by making food so easily accessible and there being so many mixed messages about food.
Eat! Lose Weight! Anorexia is terrible! Let's celebrate Nicole Richie's 80 pound frame (while we know it's bad-- don't we love to see the transformations?) How disgusting that we can see her bones, get her a sandwich.
All you can eat! Trim Spa!
Blech.
I am proud to say that I'm not buying into the waif thing-- my ultimate goal is very reasonable for my frame, and most of all-- and much more than wanting to be skinny-- I want to get off of the yo-yo dieting train.
I hate it, and I am taking steps to never set foot on it again, one day at a time.
Friday, January 05, 2007
I'm going to be in "Redbook" magazine!!
Wow!
My cousin Aviva, who is a freelance writer for magazines, forwarded me a request for "Real Beauties Wanted!" and I responded. THEY PICKED ME!
Here is the text of the request:
----- Forwarded Message ----
Sent: Friday, January 5, 2007 10:29:55 AM
Subject: Real Beauties Wanted!
The real women search continues! Please forward this email to a pretty--or
simply striking--friend. Thanks!
What does it take to get you out of the house in the morning? REDBOOK is
starting a new column, "Beauty Lineup," in which we'll talk to real women
about their beauty routines. We'll be photographing the women and the
products that they use. Wanna share the contents of your cabinet with
REDBOOK readers? Or know someone who would? Are you between the ages of 27
and 40 and in the New York area? AND, are you free on Thursday, January
11th for a few hours? If so, please email ** with a
current photo of yourself and answers to the following questions...
I have to go in at 11:30 AM on January 11th for a photo shoot (and interview??) and they will do my hair and makeup for a head shot! Eight women total were chosen, I am flattered, though who knows how many replied? The editor told me that they got a ton of responses, but who really knows.
Anyway, I am sure I am their "drug store maven" b/c almost all of the products I use come from the drug store aisles (practical girl here.)
More details to follow... What a month I am having!
My cousin Aviva, who is a freelance writer for magazines, forwarded me a request for "Real Beauties Wanted!" and I responded. THEY PICKED ME!
Here is the text of the request:
----- Forwarded Message ----
Sent: Friday, January 5, 2007 10:29:55 AM
Subject: Real Beauties Wanted!
The real women search continues! Please forward this email to a pretty--or
simply striking--friend. Thanks!
What does it take to get you out of the house in the morning? REDBOOK is
starting a new column, "Beauty Lineup," in which we'll talk to real women
about their beauty routines. We'll be photographing the women and the
products that they use. Wanna share the contents of your cabinet with
REDBOOK readers? Or know someone who would? Are you between the ages of 27
and 40 and in the New York area? AND, are you free on Thursday, January
11th for a few hours? If so, please email ** with a
current photo of yourself and answers to the following questions...
I have to go in at 11:30 AM on January 11th for a photo shoot (and interview??) and they will do my hair and makeup for a head shot! Eight women total were chosen, I am flattered, though who knows how many replied? The editor told me that they got a ton of responses, but who really knows.
Anyway, I am sure I am their "drug store maven" b/c almost all of the products I use come from the drug store aisles (practical girl here.)
More details to follow... What a month I am having!
I love JC x2!
Not only am I loving Jenny Craig-- looks like my weight will be down by 3.5 pounds this week (official weigh in tomorrow)... but I also love Jersey City and our new apartment.
I feel that everything is fitting together right now, even though my life feels somewhat chaotic with my imminent job change, my changing eating and exercise lifestyle, and a still new apartment.
I just love living in a high rise-- it's probably the nicest building that we've ever lived in b/c it's a rental high rise, and they just do everything so nicely, from the lobby to the doormen to the workout room that has free bottled water. What luxury. Not only that, our apartment has some terrific views of NYC and we see the most spectacular sunrises each morning-- really thrilling and inspiring to draw or paint at some point.
I am into treating myself well now more than ever-- and that doesn't necessarily mean that I have to spend money all the time. The other day, after I had to go to the UWS for an appointment, I allowed myself a couple of hours to just walk around, browse and then do the most delicious activity: I went to Barnes and Noble and sat and looked at books and relaxed ALL BY MYSELF.
I remember a time when I was single when being alone was stressful because I felt that I SHOULD be with someone else-- and now that I am married with my adorable little one, I treasure some alone time. I haven't realized just how much it means to me until recently.
I am grabbing little moments whenever I can-- it's not the same to browse in a bookstore with little J and A in tow, I have other stuff on my mind. But having complete freedom to just be me and care for noone but myself is just so:
DELICIOUS.
Note the food language.
I don't want to get all psychobabbly, but I am back to considering how "hungry" I've been in the past and the ways I've used food to comfort myself, instead of learning other wonderful ways to do that that do not involve food.
I know, I know, I know the standard Weight Watchers and JC and whomever advice: take a bubble bath, get a manicure-- and these are things that I've tried. But when you're not thinking it through and just doing it because they said so instead of doing what you 'hunger' for-- it's different.
I am now really trying to key in for what I'm hungry for or shall we say: "needing" for comfort at that time-- and trying to give it to myself and make a plan to get it in the near future.
This is progress that makes my JC program more and more of a lifestyle change (I know I am still just pushing my baby teeth through my gums on this... but every little step forward matters). I am working on making it so that I am not white-knuckling the progress, but enjoying each step along the way and incorporating a new me into my new lifestyle. NOT being hard on myself but being good to myself, just doing it in a new and better and healthier way.
I feel that everything is fitting together right now, even though my life feels somewhat chaotic with my imminent job change, my changing eating and exercise lifestyle, and a still new apartment.
I just love living in a high rise-- it's probably the nicest building that we've ever lived in b/c it's a rental high rise, and they just do everything so nicely, from the lobby to the doormen to the workout room that has free bottled water. What luxury. Not only that, our apartment has some terrific views of NYC and we see the most spectacular sunrises each morning-- really thrilling and inspiring to draw or paint at some point.
I am into treating myself well now more than ever-- and that doesn't necessarily mean that I have to spend money all the time. The other day, after I had to go to the UWS for an appointment, I allowed myself a couple of hours to just walk around, browse and then do the most delicious activity: I went to Barnes and Noble and sat and looked at books and relaxed ALL BY MYSELF.
I remember a time when I was single when being alone was stressful because I felt that I SHOULD be with someone else-- and now that I am married with my adorable little one, I treasure some alone time. I haven't realized just how much it means to me until recently.
I am grabbing little moments whenever I can-- it's not the same to browse in a bookstore with little J and A in tow, I have other stuff on my mind. But having complete freedom to just be me and care for noone but myself is just so:
DELICIOUS.
Note the food language.
I don't want to get all psychobabbly, but I am back to considering how "hungry" I've been in the past and the ways I've used food to comfort myself, instead of learning other wonderful ways to do that that do not involve food.
I know, I know, I know the standard Weight Watchers and JC and whomever advice: take a bubble bath, get a manicure-- and these are things that I've tried. But when you're not thinking it through and just doing it because they said so instead of doing what you 'hunger' for-- it's different.
I am now really trying to key in for what I'm hungry for or shall we say: "needing" for comfort at that time-- and trying to give it to myself and make a plan to get it in the near future.
This is progress that makes my JC program more and more of a lifestyle change (I know I am still just pushing my baby teeth through my gums on this... but every little step forward matters). I am working on making it so that I am not white-knuckling the progress, but enjoying each step along the way and incorporating a new me into my new lifestyle. NOT being hard on myself but being good to myself, just doing it in a new and better and healthier way.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
The NEWS!
I got a new job! Yippee!
I will be starting as a Department Administrator at a large NYC hospital in the beginning of February.
Since this blog is associated with my name, I didn't want to reveal my interview process etc. for confidentiality purposes. But I resigned from my current employer (whom I will miss, a small NYC community hospital struggling against the Berger Commission trying to close it down) today, so I'm going public.
My biggest worry these days is the potential guilt feelings I might have when my new hours keep me away from Jordan more... but I will have to cope and know that he loves me and knows that I love him. My mom says: the person who will suffer from the separation is ME, not Jordan. He has Andre when I am not around (and when there is not our babysitter.) He will be safe and sound-- and who knows what will happen? I just need to be prepared for the feelings of separation pain when I need to work more... I can do it.
As for new work clothes, one of my JC goals, Andre and I agreed that I'll shop on Saturday January 27th for a couple of new suits. I know they will be 'interim' clothes b/c it's impossible to lose even 10 pounds and not change sizes, but fortunately-- there is a tailor in my building (on the 2nd floor). So whatever I need taken in, I can get done that week (sleeve lengths, etc). And as I shrink down, I'll make my decisions as to whether to alter clothes that are getting too big, or just buy new ones.
What a fun dilemma to look forward to!
I will be starting as a Department Administrator at a large NYC hospital in the beginning of February.
Since this blog is associated with my name, I didn't want to reveal my interview process etc. for confidentiality purposes. But I resigned from my current employer (whom I will miss, a small NYC community hospital struggling against the Berger Commission trying to close it down) today, so I'm going public.
My biggest worry these days is the potential guilt feelings I might have when my new hours keep me away from Jordan more... but I will have to cope and know that he loves me and knows that I love him. My mom says: the person who will suffer from the separation is ME, not Jordan. He has Andre when I am not around (and when there is not our babysitter.) He will be safe and sound-- and who knows what will happen? I just need to be prepared for the feelings of separation pain when I need to work more... I can do it.
As for new work clothes, one of my JC goals, Andre and I agreed that I'll shop on Saturday January 27th for a couple of new suits. I know they will be 'interim' clothes b/c it's impossible to lose even 10 pounds and not change sizes, but fortunately-- there is a tailor in my building (on the 2nd floor). So whatever I need taken in, I can get done that week (sleeve lengths, etc). And as I shrink down, I'll make my decisions as to whether to alter clothes that are getting too big, or just buy new ones.
What a fun dilemma to look forward to!
The Dinnerland Gang
I just got an email from an old friend who recently had a look at my blog and I sent her some pictures-- so I decided to post some favorites from a recent day here.
So, here you see my gorgeous guy, my gorgeous kid and me-- in Jewish terms, I'm 'kvelling' over these pictures.
JC is still going great, and I am feeling so good b/c I am being good to myself. I stopped at Citarella, a gourmet food market, on my way home yesterday and picked up beautiful strawberries, Enoki mushroom-- a favorite exotic mushroom of mine--, and a salmon/ swordfish burger for Andre. So, even though I didn't cook his dinner (he's more than capable to cook his dinner, he will absolutely tell you that, thank you very much!)-- I felt good 'providing' this yummy main dish. And he cooked up a lovely stir fry on the side, which made me feel good that he had a nice healthy meal.
More soon, and NEWS is coming (be patient, friends.)
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
What's the long term plan?
Another great JC day-- but what worries me is what I'll do for motivation once the initial excitement lapses.
It always seems to happen-- and all the diet advice says, set mini goals-- reward yourself etc etc etc.
Today, when I got on the scale, the number hadn't budged-- but what worried me is what are my expectations?
I want to lose fat, and fat takes time to lose. Yes, I lost 5 'pounds' from my first to my second day on JC-- but I know that wasn't fat.
The scale will ultimately tell the tale, but so will my clothes getting looser, my sizes shrinking down, and actual inches coming off.
Impatience is what I am experiencing-- and I don't want to be "white knuckling" this journey-- b/c it's going to take months. I don't want to wait until I can "go back" to my old way of eating (even though it would be nice to eat whatever, whenever, and never worry about my weight.) BUT THAT WILL NEVER HAPPEN.
I am so tired of myself about this topic, but alas, this is where I am at.
On the Dinnerland front-- I "made" myself Jenny Fajitas last night, and they were so good, I augmented the JC dish with my own roasted orange, red, and green peppers and some balsamic roasted baby bella mushrooms on the side. Delish!
The JC food is surpisingly yummy, especially when you augment it the right way with spices here, soy sauce there etc.
Yesterday's lunch was the dreaded "tuna salad pack" that some really complain about on the JC boards. It is a shelf-stable kit that includes a little can of tuna (already prepped with some fake mayo), wheat crackers (5), and a container of peaches in syrup.
Well, I made this absolutely delicious spinach salad, with brocoli 'slaw' (just pre-cut brocoli and carrots julienned from the produce section), a pickle (chopped), a couple of pepperoncini peppers, smashed the crackers over the salad and WOW. Really good.
I am feeling really good about how much I am enjoying the food and how many veggies I am eating each day. I just want it to be sustainable long term.
For this week, I bought a bunch of veggies and chopped them up and bagged them in individual servings to grab whenever 'snacky.' I hope I can sustain this habit, b/c it's the perfect foil for feeling like a crunchy 'something.'
As for dh and little cute son, I made dh leftover/ augmented fried rice-- and little cute son had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. So cute.
I am glad that I can still cook sometimes for the family and stick to my plan as well.
Onward and downward(on the scale.)
It always seems to happen-- and all the diet advice says, set mini goals-- reward yourself etc etc etc.
Today, when I got on the scale, the number hadn't budged-- but what worried me is what are my expectations?
I want to lose fat, and fat takes time to lose. Yes, I lost 5 'pounds' from my first to my second day on JC-- but I know that wasn't fat.
The scale will ultimately tell the tale, but so will my clothes getting looser, my sizes shrinking down, and actual inches coming off.
Impatience is what I am experiencing-- and I don't want to be "white knuckling" this journey-- b/c it's going to take months. I don't want to wait until I can "go back" to my old way of eating (even though it would be nice to eat whatever, whenever, and never worry about my weight.) BUT THAT WILL NEVER HAPPEN.
I am so tired of myself about this topic, but alas, this is where I am at.
On the Dinnerland front-- I "made" myself Jenny Fajitas last night, and they were so good, I augmented the JC dish with my own roasted orange, red, and green peppers and some balsamic roasted baby bella mushrooms on the side. Delish!
The JC food is surpisingly yummy, especially when you augment it the right way with spices here, soy sauce there etc.
Yesterday's lunch was the dreaded "tuna salad pack" that some really complain about on the JC boards. It is a shelf-stable kit that includes a little can of tuna (already prepped with some fake mayo), wheat crackers (5), and a container of peaches in syrup.
Well, I made this absolutely delicious spinach salad, with brocoli 'slaw' (just pre-cut brocoli and carrots julienned from the produce section), a pickle (chopped), a couple of pepperoncini peppers, smashed the crackers over the salad and WOW. Really good.
I am feeling really good about how much I am enjoying the food and how many veggies I am eating each day. I just want it to be sustainable long term.
For this week, I bought a bunch of veggies and chopped them up and bagged them in individual servings to grab whenever 'snacky.' I hope I can sustain this habit, b/c it's the perfect foil for feeling like a crunchy 'something.'
As for dh and little cute son, I made dh leftover/ augmented fried rice-- and little cute son had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. So cute.
I am glad that I can still cook sometimes for the family and stick to my plan as well.
Onward and downward(on the scale.)
Monday, January 01, 2007
What am I hungry for? A reward...
I was just posting on the JC message boards, and I wrote a rather brilliant post (if I do say so myself.)
Someone posted about needing "positive reinforcement" to get herself through the close to 40 pounds of weight loss she needs to get through.
I essentially wrote back that mini-goals are key (this is not the brilliant part, duh-- I didn't make that up)... but I also wrote that I have written a list of non-food rewards for myself that I plan to give myself along the way of this 'journey' (I kind of hate that expression for some reason).
The interesting part (to me), was that I said that if I feel "HUNGRY"-- I can turn to my rewards list and give myself a treat to fill the void. That's the thing I thought was a brilliant concept for me.
In the past, I've never really bought the whole reward business-- isn't being thin a reward enough???
But I finally think I am getting it. I need to nurture myself so that I won't hunger for comfort that I can easily get through food.
To that end: I am proud to report that my New Year's eve reward (we stayed home, we hate New Year's Eve celebrations, too hyped up for us) to myself was a lovely bath where I used some awesome scented bath oil and then used bath salts to exfoliate. My legs and skin are smooth today and I continue on the path to a new slimmer me.
Happy New Year!
Someone posted about needing "positive reinforcement" to get herself through the close to 40 pounds of weight loss she needs to get through.
I essentially wrote back that mini-goals are key (this is not the brilliant part, duh-- I didn't make that up)... but I also wrote that I have written a list of non-food rewards for myself that I plan to give myself along the way of this 'journey' (I kind of hate that expression for some reason).
The interesting part (to me), was that I said that if I feel "HUNGRY"-- I can turn to my rewards list and give myself a treat to fill the void. That's the thing I thought was a brilliant concept for me.
In the past, I've never really bought the whole reward business-- isn't being thin a reward enough???
But I finally think I am getting it. I need to nurture myself so that I won't hunger for comfort that I can easily get through food.
To that end: I am proud to report that my New Year's eve reward (we stayed home, we hate New Year's Eve celebrations, too hyped up for us) to myself was a lovely bath where I used some awesome scented bath oil and then used bath salts to exfoliate. My legs and skin are smooth today and I continue on the path to a new slimmer me.
Happy New Year!
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