Sunday, April 5, 2009
TIP OF THE DAY- MONDAY
TRACK WHAT YOU EAT. No matter how it adds up you will learn from it. This will take some work to get into the habit of writing everything down you eat but it really will help you see where you need the work and just what it is that you are eating. This is the biggest reason why I chose a few months ago to use the sparkpeople program. Most of the foods I like and eat on already on their program and it tell me exactly how many calories, carb, proteins, fats, fibers and other nutrients I am getting from each food. I think I am eating better, although this weekend I was pretty lazy. I know I didn't eat as good as I should and at the end of the day the program showed me exactly how bad I had eaten. It really makes me stop and thing and promise to do better tomorrow. Give it a try. You will be surprised how easy it is to use and how little time it really does take.
TIP OF THE DAY - SUNDAY
LOOK AT MOTIVATIONAL ARTICLES. Seeing how others overcome similar struggles and obstacles can be a great source of motivation. Just google "diet tips" or if you are having a problem in one area such as finding recipes you would like to try just google diet foods or fat free snacks or whatever. I am sure you all know how to use the computer far more than I do so just let it work for you. Another place to find help is right here on this blog. The tips come from lots of us, so take a few minutes, or a half hour or even an hour if you have it and read some of the comments from others. I love the comments and find them very helpful. After reading leave a few comments of your own. We love hearing from each other and it is what keeps us going.
Friday, April 3, 2009
TIP OF THE DAY - SATURDAY
DRINK YOUR WATER. Try to aim for 8 cups each day and you’ll feel the difference!
This does get easier and easier as time goes on. I think what helps me is that with the wood stove I keep the house at about 82 degrees, which is hot for most people, but nice and warm for me. It makes me forget that we are still getting snow here and I think it is summer and with summer comes cool drinks. My favorite cool drink is water. So, stick with it and you will develop a love for water too. Just don't give up!!
This does get easier and easier as time goes on. I think what helps me is that with the wood stove I keep the house at about 82 degrees, which is hot for most people, but nice and warm for me. It makes me forget that we are still getting snow here and I think it is summer and with summer comes cool drinks. My favorite cool drink is water. So, stick with it and you will develop a love for water too. Just don't give up!!
THIS IS HARD
How many of you find yourself saying the same thing. I went into this thinking I'll lose 10 pounds a month for a couple of months and then drop off to 5 to 7 pounds a month, and then down to 3 a month to finish things off -- Ha, Ha. Here I am three months into it and I've only lost 7 pounds. But I will continue. I keep reading Yvonne's daily tips, and go back over what we've been learning and will stick with it, (that in itself is better than the past). It really helps to have this blog and to have to weigh in weekly and post a result, and not pay weight watchers to do it. My rewards have been messed up, too, and I'll have to change those. I wanted to get a good short haircut after I lost 20 pounds. I have already cut my hair three times this year (but it's not real short yet). However, another reward was supposed to be new glasses and/or contacts after 30 pounds. But last week I broke my glasses completely (and found out I really can't wear contacts without wearing reading glasses) so I have new glasses ordered already. I'll probably need that haircut to go with the glasses. I'm terrible about picking out glass frames (I can't SEE what they look like!) That's it for my update. Good luck to all in the new month.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
TIP OF THE DAY - FRIDAY
EAT A HEALTHY BREAKFAST. Your morning meal sets the stage for the rest of your day, so start if off right! Here are some healthy breakfast ideas:
Enjoy cottage cheese with fresh fruit and some kind of whole-wheat bread.
Plain fat-free yogurt, sugar-free jam and 1/4 cup of grape nuts. It has around 170-190 calories.
Egg beaters and fresh veggies! Put 1/2 a cup of Egg Beaters in the microwave (directions are on the container) and about halfway through, when you're told to stir, just add some fresh veggies and low-fat cheese.
A bowl of fresh berries topped with yogurt and slivered almonds and a half a toasted whole wheat bagel with fat-free cream cheese or goat cheese.
Good old fashioned oatmeal, orange juice and a slice of whole wheat toast made with broccoli.
Enjoy cottage cheese with fresh fruit and some kind of whole-wheat bread.
Plain fat-free yogurt, sugar-free jam and 1/4 cup of grape nuts. It has around 170-190 calories.
Egg beaters and fresh veggies! Put 1/2 a cup of Egg Beaters in the microwave (directions are on the container) and about halfway through, when you're told to stir, just add some fresh veggies and low-fat cheese.
A bowl of fresh berries topped with yogurt and slivered almonds and a half a toasted whole wheat bagel with fat-free cream cheese or goat cheese.
Good old fashioned oatmeal, orange juice and a slice of whole wheat toast made with broccoli.
LET'S TAKE A LOOK BACK TO JANUARY
AND THE REASONS WE ARE ALL DOING THIS WEIGHT LOSS CHALLENGE. As I said in this morning's blog, part of rededicating ourselves to this program is to look at some of the reasons we want to lose the weight and how we might do it. Here are some of our reasons and thoughts. Enjoy reading them and think about what you wanted to do just 3 months ago. Has anything changed?
Mission Statement
The purpose of this blog is to motivate, encourage, support each other as we make 2009 a healthier year for the women in our family. Seven sisters (and a few of their daughters) on a weight loss quest for the year 2009. Weight loss goals range from less than 10 pounds to over 100 pounds. We know this won't be easy, especially for those with lots of weight to lose, but we know it will be worth it. Another reason for the blog is simply that if we have to answer to each other about our progress it just might keep us on track and a little more honest. Of course the biggest benefit of the blog will be to keep in touch with each other.
Eileen's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
I am joining this group because I know it is the only way I will stick with a weight loss plan. Trying to do it on my own doesn't work - I am my own worst enemy. I am going to be 57 in a few days, unless I can just forget the date and let it slide by. I am not including my exact weight here because I really am ashamed of myself for getting here. I have no children at home, I have no husband here to use as an excuse. I don't have any rewards to look forward to when I get to my goal weight. Losing the weight will be reward enough I guess. I'll revisit the issue if and when the pounds are gone and the economy is better.
Chelsea's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
I'm almost 18, and just about done with high school. I know I look amazingly cute. No one in our family is exactly "slender", and that's not healthy. So I'm super excited to do this-mainly because my mommy PROMISED we'd go to EUROPE once I graduate and down to my specific weight. So I'm really really working on losing this nasty fat because let's face it - I want to go to Europe...and look EXCEPTIONALLY good! Under all this blubber I have a good figure and I can't wait to see it and feel more amazing about myself then I already do. I'm not cocky - just confident. So I'll be excited to drop the pounds.
Elizabeth's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
I want to lose 20 pounds. In a perfect world I would lose 30 pounds, but I'd be happy to lose 20 and keep it off. My main goals for this year isn't to lose a set number of pounds as much as it is to get FIT! I want to get rid of my baby tummy, buns, thighs, etc. and I want to wear my favorite jeans again.I didn't really have a prize for the end, but I think I just decided. When I reach my goal I'm buying a new diamond ring! I've been thinking about redesigning my wedding ring and last night I think I found the type I want, so that is my prize.
Renee's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
My goal weight is 140. Chelsea-my youngest will be graduating. I'll be celebrating my 50th birthday and I'm certain menopause is on its way. They tell you when you enter puberty you're becoming a woman, but what they don't tell you is what you become when you enter menopause. More than humorous, I find that statement profound.The years ahead are going to be so different than the past 49. I can transform myself into the vibrant, vivacious woman I've always believed existed but never had a chance to find. So, basically, my reason for losing weight has absolutely nothing to do with kids, grandkids, some man, the dog or anyone else. It's all for ME. But more than anything-when I look in the mirror I want to think to myself and say our loud, "Damn girl, you look
Sarah's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
My goal is 140 pounds (as my doctor recommends). I too have already sort of outlined my rewards, one for each 5 pound increment up to 25 pounds...I'll have to start thinking bigger rewards after that.
My trouble is that I have always lost weight so slowly. BUT that's not an acceptable excuse not to make some changes.
So here's to all of us in 2009.
Joleane's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
My goals are to lose 50ish pounds. I'm cool with 45-55 pounds. I also want to run a 5K, 10K, and half marathon this year. (There is a 5K in Eugene on Valentine's Day that I'm planning on running, then a 10K in May and half marathon in August or so).
My plan of action, so to speak, is basically to run my butt off, and stomach and hips and thighs...I also need to keep track of calories. I've tried each method individually and only get good results when I both exercise and watch what I eat. I'm going to train for the runs and I have a weight loss program for my PDA that will help me keep track of calories. I also need to do some weight bearing exercises for my upper body.
Here's to 2009!
Becky's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
I'm trying to lose 35 pounds--would like to lose more, but I'm trying to be realistic.
I'm not sure how I'm going to go about losing the weight but I have already picked out the rewards I'm going to give myself along the way.
Liisa's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
The question is, can I lose the weight I need in order to live a healthier life? The answer is YES, I am 100% sure I can lose weight. No problem, no big deal, no worries. The thing is, once I lose it, CAN I KEEP IT OFF??? That my dear sisters is the question of the day. The one thing that is usually missing when I diet is EXERCISE. That I think will be the key to this whole adventure for me.So, here is my idea on how to do this, Eat, Breathe, Move; the key to a long healthy life. I will however have to eat more fruits and vegetables, exercise a minimum 4 times a week and continue to breathe when doing so. That is if I can...The recommended weight for my height and frame is 121-135 pounds. My goal weight is 135.
Yvonne's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
Because of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and GERD, I am now taking 12 pills every day. Think of the money we are spending on pills.
With the help of family, friends, and the nutritionist I am now on a 1500 calorie a day diet with 5 small meals instead of 3 BIG meals and I do drink 10 cups of water every day. My goal weight is about 140 pounds How am I going to lose ALL THIS WEIGHT; I know it won't be easy but I also know I will do it.
I have 10 good reasons to do so, my grandchildren. The most important reason I have to diet is simply that I don't want to die. So here is to a much skinner all of us in 2009!
Mission Statement
The purpose of this blog is to motivate, encourage, support each other as we make 2009 a healthier year for the women in our family. Seven sisters (and a few of their daughters) on a weight loss quest for the year 2009. Weight loss goals range from less than 10 pounds to over 100 pounds. We know this won't be easy, especially for those with lots of weight to lose, but we know it will be worth it. Another reason for the blog is simply that if we have to answer to each other about our progress it just might keep us on track and a little more honest. Of course the biggest benefit of the blog will be to keep in touch with each other.
Eileen's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
I am joining this group because I know it is the only way I will stick with a weight loss plan. Trying to do it on my own doesn't work - I am my own worst enemy. I am going to be 57 in a few days, unless I can just forget the date and let it slide by. I am not including my exact weight here because I really am ashamed of myself for getting here. I have no children at home, I have no husband here to use as an excuse. I don't have any rewards to look forward to when I get to my goal weight. Losing the weight will be reward enough I guess. I'll revisit the issue if and when the pounds are gone and the economy is better.
Chelsea's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
I'm almost 18, and just about done with high school. I know I look amazingly cute. No one in our family is exactly "slender", and that's not healthy. So I'm super excited to do this-mainly because my mommy PROMISED we'd go to EUROPE once I graduate and down to my specific weight. So I'm really really working on losing this nasty fat because let's face it - I want to go to Europe...and look EXCEPTIONALLY good! Under all this blubber I have a good figure and I can't wait to see it and feel more amazing about myself then I already do. I'm not cocky - just confident. So I'll be excited to drop the pounds.
Elizabeth's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
I want to lose 20 pounds. In a perfect world I would lose 30 pounds, but I'd be happy to lose 20 and keep it off. My main goals for this year isn't to lose a set number of pounds as much as it is to get FIT! I want to get rid of my baby tummy, buns, thighs, etc. and I want to wear my favorite jeans again.I didn't really have a prize for the end, but I think I just decided. When I reach my goal I'm buying a new diamond ring! I've been thinking about redesigning my wedding ring and last night I think I found the type I want, so that is my prize.
Renee's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
My goal weight is 140. Chelsea-my youngest will be graduating. I'll be celebrating my 50th birthday and I'm certain menopause is on its way. They tell you when you enter puberty you're becoming a woman, but what they don't tell you is what you become when you enter menopause. More than humorous, I find that statement profound.The years ahead are going to be so different than the past 49. I can transform myself into the vibrant, vivacious woman I've always believed existed but never had a chance to find. So, basically, my reason for losing weight has absolutely nothing to do with kids, grandkids, some man, the dog or anyone else. It's all for ME. But more than anything-when I look in the mirror I want to think to myself and say our loud, "Damn girl, you look
Sarah's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
My goal is 140 pounds (as my doctor recommends). I too have already sort of outlined my rewards, one for each 5 pound increment up to 25 pounds...I'll have to start thinking bigger rewards after that.
My trouble is that I have always lost weight so slowly. BUT that's not an acceptable excuse not to make some changes.
So here's to all of us in 2009.
Joleane's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
My goals are to lose 50ish pounds. I'm cool with 45-55 pounds. I also want to run a 5K, 10K, and half marathon this year. (There is a 5K in Eugene on Valentine's Day that I'm planning on running, then a 10K in May and half marathon in August or so).
My plan of action, so to speak, is basically to run my butt off, and stomach and hips and thighs...I also need to keep track of calories. I've tried each method individually and only get good results when I both exercise and watch what I eat. I'm going to train for the runs and I have a weight loss program for my PDA that will help me keep track of calories. I also need to do some weight bearing exercises for my upper body.
Here's to 2009!
Becky's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
I'm trying to lose 35 pounds--would like to lose more, but I'm trying to be realistic.
I'm not sure how I'm going to go about losing the weight but I have already picked out the rewards I'm going to give myself along the way.
Liisa's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
The question is, can I lose the weight I need in order to live a healthier life? The answer is YES, I am 100% sure I can lose weight. No problem, no big deal, no worries. The thing is, once I lose it, CAN I KEEP IT OFF??? That my dear sisters is the question of the day. The one thing that is usually missing when I diet is EXERCISE. That I think will be the key to this whole adventure for me.So, here is my idea on how to do this, Eat, Breathe, Move; the key to a long healthy life. I will however have to eat more fruits and vegetables, exercise a minimum 4 times a week and continue to breathe when doing so. That is if I can...The recommended weight for my height and frame is 121-135 pounds. My goal weight is 135.
Yvonne's reasons for joining the weight loss challenge:
Because of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and GERD, I am now taking 12 pills every day. Think of the money we are spending on pills.
With the help of family, friends, and the nutritionist I am now on a 1500 calorie a day diet with 5 small meals instead of 3 BIG meals and I do drink 10 cups of water every day. My goal weight is about 140 pounds How am I going to lose ALL THIS WEIGHT; I know it won't be easy but I also know I will do it.
I have 10 good reasons to do so, my grandchildren. The most important reason I have to diet is simply that I don't want to die. So here is to a much skinner all of us in 2009!
TIP OF THE DAY - THURSDAY
GETTING BACK ON TRACK #2 Yesterday I stated in the tip of the day that this month we would focus on getting back on track, for those of us who may need some help. To go along with that Elizabeth suggested that I go back through the 150 plus posts to find just what motivated us to start this in the first place so look for that new post later today. For today's tip:
Try a new recipe. Cooking healthy foods can be fun and it never has to be bland.
LEAN AND BEEFY TACO SALAD
Ingredients
8 oz lean ground beef2 tsp taco seasoning12 oz yellow sweet corn1-1/2 cups pinto beans1 cup shredded cheddar or colby cheese, low fat5 oz light tortilla chips6 tbsp sour cream, reduced fat4 tbsp taco sauce medium1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded or chopped1 cup tomatoes, chopped or sliced 1/2 cup onions, chopped
Directions
Brown ground beef. Add seasoning mix, corn, pinto beans, and taco sauce. Simmer for approximately 10 - 15 minutes. Sprinkle cheese over the top of the mixture and allow to melt. Serve in about 1/2 cup portion with a tbsp of sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, onions and approximately 6 large tortilla chips crushed over the top. Number of Servings: 10Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user JESS4659. Number of Servings: 10
Nutritional Info
Servings Per Recipe: 10
Amount Per Serving
Calories: 208.0
Total Fat: 8.2 g
Cholesterol: 25.2 mg
Sodium: 344.1 mg
Total Carbs: 23.8 g
Dietary Fiber: 3.5 g
Protein: 11.2 g
Try a new recipe. Cooking healthy foods can be fun and it never has to be bland.
LEAN AND BEEFY TACO SALAD
Ingredients
8 oz lean ground beef2 tsp taco seasoning12 oz yellow sweet corn1-1/2 cups pinto beans1 cup shredded cheddar or colby cheese, low fat5 oz light tortilla chips6 tbsp sour cream, reduced fat4 tbsp taco sauce medium1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded or chopped1 cup tomatoes, chopped or sliced 1/2 cup onions, chopped
Directions
Brown ground beef. Add seasoning mix, corn, pinto beans, and taco sauce. Simmer for approximately 10 - 15 minutes. Sprinkle cheese over the top of the mixture and allow to melt. Serve in about 1/2 cup portion with a tbsp of sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, onions and approximately 6 large tortilla chips crushed over the top. Number of Servings: 10Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user JESS4659. Number of Servings: 10
Nutritional Info
Servings Per Recipe: 10
Amount Per Serving
Calories: 208.0
Total Fat: 8.2 g
Cholesterol: 25.2 mg
Sodium: 344.1 mg
Total Carbs: 23.8 g
Dietary Fiber: 3.5 g
Protein: 11.2 g
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