Kami 3/5/10

Wild weekend ahead! Hope I can hang on! Kache is playing in a baseball tourney today and tomorrow in St. George, Brinley and Kolby have violin festival competition in the morning. I am trying to plan my R.S. lesson for Sunday, get supplies and start on Kache's career fair project due Thurs. and get R.S. Birthday party all planned/prepared before Wed. Plus clean/organize my house, workout, plan free day and the list goes on!!! If I think of this as positive pressure hopefully my attitude will stay up!!!

Workout:
NOTHING! (YET) I got up to work out and was even on the treadmill when I felt a sweet little tug from behind. When I turned to see Kolby awake at 6 am I knew something was wrong (usually it takes a spray bottle to get that kid out of bed). He has fever and bad sore throat (please don't be strep)! I held and cuddled him instead this morning and I feel great about it! Don't worry I have a plan to get my workout in this afternoon after Kolby see's the doctor.

Meals:
(1) cottage cheese/yogurt
(2) apple/string cheese
(3) 180 cal. meal
(4) protein bar
(5) chicken tacos with cabbage

Gratitudes:
-I have to say that I just LOVE the way I feel!!! I have energy, am so happy, not having trouble getting up early, love eating clean, feel less overwhelmed even though I am busier than ever! This alone makes EVERYTHING totally worth it! There have been so many unexpected "perks" in this journey! I am so loving it! Have a great Friday!

Keri 3/2/10

I am grumpy and don't feel like doing anything!! On Monday's I always get my house totally clean from the weekend and get all my laundry caught up so it is easy to take care of for the rest of the week. Not yesterday, I didn't do one thing!! That is probably why I am so grumpy cuzz I hate to be in a mess but I have no ambition to do it. I also wanted to get caught up on the assignments this weekend and didn't get that done either. I am a slacker!
I also got 35 viruses on my vinyl computer and had to have the whole thing deleted and then reinstalled. It deleted all of my fonts that I have ever put on it! Nothing like having to start over!!
My eating has been clean but I don't think I am eating enough cuz yesterday I only ate about 23 points when I should have had between 30-38 points.

Workout yesterday and today were good (at least that is what Leslie said!!) I just have a fear of running and can't get passed it!! I am trying to conquer the "I can't" attitude that is in my head!! Any ideas of how to do that?

M1-Special K
M2-Protein Shake
M3-EFL Asian Stir Fry
M4-Protein Shake
M5-EFL Chicken Enchiladas

I am hoping for a better day and a little bit of ambition to get something done!!

Joanna - FRIDAY!

I'm with Kami - I'm glad it's the weekend. Not entirely sure why - becuase I always seem to build the weekends up to be great and almost every weekend I feel disappointed.....I need to stop putting quite so much pressure on a couple of days.

I had Leslie do my assessment this morning and I was really happy with it. I went into it with NO expectations - just hoping not to be down and cry about it like I did last time when we were done. I have had a stall on the scale the last couple of weeks and was getting really upset about it. But this week I had a loss - a total loss from the beginning of 11 lbs. That excited me a lot!

Even better than the # on the scale is that I've had some other people have noticed a change. I had a woman I don't know particularly well comment about it to me last night and it made such a difference. She said she hadn't seen me in a while and just wanted to know what I was doing because I was looking good. It caught me so off guard and I just kind of bounced all the way home with a grin on my face.

When I got home I started looking in my closet and tried on some shirts I had bought when I was skinny a few years ago. I started putting them on just to see how far I had to get into them and almost all of them fit! Not perfectly, there were bumps in places I didn't really want - but I could get them on - and that is a huge accomplishment for me! It was exciting to see results like that. It got me so excited I pulled out my "skinny pants" from my closet. I should have done that at the beginning - I'm really excited to get back into some of those clothes! Cute skirts, jackets, capris....And I didn't look at it like stuff I'll never wear again - I was looking at all of them in a different, more positive light. And I'm looking at clothes in stores and I'm actually excited to shop in a couple of months for some new spunky stuff. :)

Ok - food today:

1. breakfast smoothie
2. cottage cheese with Mrs. Dash tomato/basil/garlic seasoning (YUM! taste like some kind of a filling for a rich pasta dish - it was yummy!), small orange and carrot sticks
3. protein bar and celery sticks
4. turkey rolls & green apple
5. ?
6. ?

I'm grateful that BOTH of my boys are sleeping right now. My poor little Gabe has taken naps the last 2 days for the first time in MONTHS. He was sick yesterday and I think he still has a bit of a funk. He was waiting for me to get a movie put on for him and fell asleep on my bed. Poor little guy. But while it's quiet - I'm going to take a couple of deep breaths because those kids have worn me out today :)

Happy weekend everyone!

Kami 2/26/10

TGIF ya'll!!!!!!! YIPEEEEEEEEEEE! I don't know what I'm so excited for. It's not like I have any major fun plans for the weekend or anything, just glad it's here! I have planned my menu for Sunday dinner (free day) and can't wait to cook up a storm! I will be making lil' cheddar meatloaves, cheesey (and I mean a lot) augratan potatoes, fairy rolls, My fav. choc. cake from scratch recipe and lots of vanilla ice cream! If only I planned my clean days so far in advance! lol

Workout:
LBWO and abs
-tired legs feel great!

Meals:
(1) ww muffin/veggie omelet
(2) banana/string cheese
(3)180 cal. meal (aka. not much food)
(4) protein bar
(5) ???

Gratitudes:
-I am noticing small changes in the food choices of some of my kids! Last night Kolby asked for a sweet potato w/ cottage cheese. For a snack the other day I caught Brinley mixing up cottage cheese and yogurt! I took Leslie's advice by not trying to change everyone's food habits at once, just my own which is the only way to start, but I am tickled pink that my kids taking notice and making better food choices for themselves! Baby steps!!!

8 weeks!

anyone who would like an 8 week assessment can come over on Fri. from 7:30-9 am or set up a time with me. I can't wait to see how great you did! Keep working hard! Leslie

Mindy Wednesday

So I ran 2 miles yesterday in 22 minutes. I was so excited. 20 minutes is my next goal.

I ran 1 mile today in 10:25. My hip is hurting from the 5k I ran Monday. But I'll push through it.

I've been neglecting my lower body and was planning to do that and upper body today, but my hip said no so I just did upper body. My shoulders still hurt.

Alecia bought me a subscription to Oxygen magazine for my birthday and it is pretty inspiring. I want to cut out all the pictures and post them all over my wall in my exercise room.

I was wondering about the end of week 8. Leslie, is there any way we can have a time in the early morning either Friday or Saturday to get our pics taken and weight/stats done? Actually I can do my own pics, I really would just like to borrow your scale since that's the one I started out on. Let me know. Thanks so much. Hope your birthday was awesome!!

Gratitudes: A baby that is STILL totally an angel baby! He is still sleeping about 18 hours a day. And he is so happy. What a joy he is in my life. I cannot believe that I almost didn't have him. I didn't want more kids, but I'm so glad Jesse talked me in to it. What a blessing of joy he is to me.

Grateful for a supportive husband who never places blame on me or makes me feel like a failure. He is by my side through everything and supports me in whatever I choose.

Joanna

Learned something (or was reminded of something) this morning: Not working out makes me grumpy! I have had some yucky pain in my right ankle the last 2 days. Kept me from running yesterday with Leslie so I decided to get in some cardio last night. I could only last about 7 minutes on the treadmill running but I was determined to finish my 2 miles - so I walked the rest. The walking felt better than the running - but still hurt a lot. After I was done it hurt more than when I had started by quite a bit. Then this morning it hurt a bunch too. Felt better when I iced it - but wasn't going to let me workout. After talking to Leslie decided to let it rest today and see if I can do anything tonight and hopefully tomorrow. Makes me mad because my last 4 workouts with Leslie went really well I thought and I felt like I was getting back to the swing of things.

Anyway - I have found that today has been a tough one for me; and I really think it's because I didn't get the blood pumping this morning and get those healthy endorphins. I keep thinking about that brain scan picture Leslie shared with us and remembering how much better the exercised brain looked. I am pretty sure if you were to do a brain scan on me right now you'd see all kinds of grumpy colors. (My kids would attest to that too!) Hopefully this can be resolved soon - I like the happy Joanna better.

Food today:

1. protein bar
2. turkey w/ laughing cow cheese and orange
3. green salad, cottage cheese & apple
4. spinach wrap with chicken
5. chicken noodle soup (wheat noodles) & string cheese
6. celery sticks & fruit/yogurt smoothie
7. LOTS of water!!!

Gratitudes - that we live somewhere with seasons, bedroom doors (so we can have a *little* quiet at times, endorphins.

Kami 2/24/10

It's been a while, but one thing I know for sure is that I am better at this when I am accountable!
I have not been thrilled with the intensity of my workouts this week. I need to push through this rut that I'm in!!!!

Workout:
UBWO
-worked hard but could have pushed a little harder
-Tonight=treadmill!

Meals:
(1) 2 slices of ham/ yougurt with 2 scoops of granola
(2) apple/cheese
(3) 180 calorie frozen meal
(4) protein bar
(5) ???

-I am grateful for the opportunity to go to the cannery tonight. I haven't been in a long time and am looking forward to adding to my food supply.
-I am grateful for SPRING even though it doesn't feel like it! At Walmart last night they had their seeds displayed. As I was adding to my cart I got so excited with the idea of digging in the dirt and growing things! That is therapy for me!!! I even caught myself sniffing a bag of grass fertilizer and it smelled like spring!!! I can't wait to ride my bike, run and hike outside!!!!

SPRING IS IN THE AIR! (no matter what the weather man says)
Have a good one!

A Fact About Soda

The Main Issue

Soda has a pH of about 1.5 and normal blood pH is between 7.2 to 7.4

It takes 32 glasses of alkaline water at a pH of 9 to neutralize the acid on ONE 12 oz can of soda. Most people don't drink that much water, and if they do, it's just regular water, not water that has been alkalinized. So in order to keep your blood at a neutral pH, your body uses the only thing it has to buffer that acid...the calcium from your bones. For every can of soda, your body withdraws 20mg of calcium from the bones.

HOLY COW!!! That is inspiring!

Joanna - 2-23-10

So this morning Leslie kicked my trash with a leg workout. WOW! We did squats with weight like there was no tomorrow! I always cringe a little when I think we are at the end of a set and she says, "I lied - we're doing ___more." And then we did lunges until I was pretty sure my legs were going to fall off. They still seem a little shaky this afternoon! But it also felt awesome - and I love days like that!

I have a big goal this week to drink more water and eat more veggies. I just measured out the water bottle I've been using lately and I had thought it was a 20 ounce bottle - felt good to know it was actually 28 ounces. So I've been drinking more than I thought :)

Today's food:

1. fruit/carbmaster smoothie
2. Adkins peanut butter protein bar (YUM!)
3. tuna salad with veggies & 1/2 alternative bagel
4. cottage cheese & orange
5. lean hamburger with brown rice & salsa with green salad & 1/2 serving of this great dressing (If you like peanut flavor or thai food - this is SOOO good. It has enough flavor that you don't need to even use very much of it!)
6. jerky or turkey slices with apple

Gratitudes:

• Opprotuntites to think outside of myself - so often it's easy to get caught up in our own lives and not slow down to help others.
• Kids who are affectionate and love to give hugs and kisses. Those cute little boys of mine can be rambuncious, but they are the sweetest little boys when they give their hugs and kisses through the day. I'll miss that someday I'm sure!
• My strong body. I love when I'm working out and feel strong - and when it's reinforced to me by others it just feels awesome.
• The ability to turn a possible diet sabotage into a positive thing - I made my kids peanut butter sandwhiches today and I started having the biggest craving for peanut butter and was worried I'd cave in. I realized I had a protein bar with peanut butter in it and I was so excited. It felt good to still satiate that craving - but in a healthy way!

Keri 2/22/10

Dang, I have been a slacker and not posting on our blog!!
I lost 4 pounds last week, I was pretty excited!! So far I have lost 16!

Exercise today: Cardio and UBWO with Leslie

M1-Special K and wheat toast
M2-Grapefruit and string cheese
M3-Chicken salad with tortilla
M4-Protein Shake
M5-Grilled chicken and ????

I can't believe that we just started week 8, that seems so crazy to me. Can't wait to see the difference between 4 and 8. Hopefully I can see something!

Have a great day!

P.S. I hate the snow!

Joanna - Thursday

Wow - what a difference a day makes! Yesterday Monday-Wednesday I felt like a wreck. I felt weak - physically and emotionally. I was grumpy, I felt sick - all around just felt poopy. I still ate clean, but my workouts were 1/2 hearted and pathetic.

Then today I had a feeling as I headed to Leslie's that it would be the same thing. I dreaded it. But it ended up being awesome! I ended up wanting to stay and work some more, wishing I'd pushed it a little harder on the weights and feeling a burst of energy. It was like I was back! I loved the rush of energy I felt and it's carried on through the day. It's been awesome! Sad that it took till Thursday to get that....but still felt awesome!!!

Food for today:

1. berry and carbmaster smoothie (When I open my fridge after my workout and see my husband has made me one of these I just about cry every time. Such a small thing - but fills up my love tank big time!)
2. cottage cheese & orange
3. string cheese, yogurt and carrots
4. ?
5. Healthy sushi & side salad
6. Protein bar

Gratitudes:

• I am grateful for mid-week dates with my hubby (going to a movie and out to dinner tonight - and I feel giddy like a school girl - I'm excited!)
• I'm grateful for reset buttons - the chance to just reset and move on. We all need those in life sometimes don't we?
• Belts - I have been fighting with this particular pair of jeans lately and Cory keeps suggesting I just wear a belt. I did today and I feel a lot better :) (I normally hate belts - but it feels better than pulling at my jeans all the time.
• I'm also grateful for moments where I get to share this journey. I love feeling the excitement of sharing it with my friends and family and feeling like the excitement of what missionaries must feel. Knowing something works and having a "testimony" of it. I have felt like that a few times this week as I've shared my feelings about this journey with "non-members". :)

One last thing - if you're not on Leslie's thread @ t.com, or didn't take her up on her challenge to us today - take a second and make a list of 5 areas you've made PROGRESS in. We're not aiming for being PERFECT - we're working for progress. We've all made it - so think about it for a second and list some of your progress. Here's some of mine:

1. I am feeding my body healthy, clean food every day.
2. I have gone out to eat a couple of times only to choose healthy options. Before starting this I would have given in just at the sight of junk food. Choosing clean food and healthy portions was empowering!
3. Most weeks I am exercising 5-6 times a week. This is compared to 0 times per week before - BIG progress.
4. I purchased a new shirt this past week in a smaller size and after wearing it a friend said it almost looked too big on me. Felt great!
5. My depression and anxiety levels are down SIGNIFICANTLY. Getting a glimpse each day of improvement in this and it feels amazing - better than any of the physical benefits.
6. I have cut down my diet soda habit considerably. I haven't cut it out completly (wasn't my goal) - but I have gotten down to much smaller amounts, and later in the day. It is empowering to know that I don't have to have a soda in the morning to get going and I love that I don't go into our local convenienc store at all anymore - it feels powerful each and every time I drive past without stopping!

Anyway - I hope you all have a fantastic rest of the week!

Leslie 2/18/10

Love Dare Day 2 went awesome. I have a hard time showing love to Andy. He even sent me an email saying he felt neglected by me. That felt pretty sad and I'm glad I have the chance to do this Love Dare. Yesterday I didn't criticize which actually isn't my problem anyway, so that didn't feel difficult, but thinking of something to show my love was a little harder. I almost said forget about it when it was 10pm and I still hadn't done anything. At 10:30 I told him I was going to put lotion on and rub his feet. He always rubs mine, but I NEVER rub his. He has to bribe the kids and they aren't very good. He was tickled pink! Day 2=Success!

Day 3--Whatever you put your time, energy, an money into will become more important to you. It's hard to care for something you are not investing in. Along with restraining from negative comments, buy your spouse something that says, "I was thinking of you today."

Hmmm- A Dr. Pepper? (Only drinks them on Sat.)
Wasabi Cashews?
Beef Jerky and a Card?

I'll be thinking on that today.

Mindy Wednesday

I did get a 2 mile run in yesterday. Thanks for calling me, Alecia!! I did a 15 minute run this morning then UBWO. Jesse helped coach me through it so I got burn out today where I usually give up before then.

Not feeling too good again today. But I can't let that be an excuse. It's too easy to fall off the wagon.

I don't want to go to work tomorrow. Dreading it. It's time for a vacation. I did get a thing in the mail from American Express that if I buy one ticket, I can get another one for $99. I'll have to take advantage of that for sure. I have a year to use it. Where should I go? Hawaii is on my list.

Anyway. I'm behind on my meals again. I didn't eat breakfast until 11 am.

The headache is back so time to go dope up on meds again!! Just kidding. Good thing germs can't be spread over the internet. Hope you all stay well.

Mindy

Kami 1/17/10

Tired of being a cheater!!! I haven't done anything horrible just BLT's (bites, licks and tastes) here and there and I think they are holding me back. This morning my mom and sister and I shook hands that there would be absolutely NO cheating, not even a NIBBLE! So today is going to be BLT free! I had to really "think" not to lick the spoon from the muffin batter this morning, but I didn't give in! I hurried and put in in the sink and submerged it in water so I couldn't change my mind! I had to do that with pizza the other day too. It wasn't enough to just throw it in the trash. I had to make sure it touched the sides so that I wasn't tempted to go dumpster diving! lol If you're thinking "thats totally pathetic" I AGREE with you!!! If they sold self control at Wal-mart I'd buy it by the case!!!

Workout:
Legs and back (P90x)
Ab ripper (P90X)
Man, that was tough!

Meals:
(1) egg white/veggie omelet w/ a sprinkle of cheese
(2) apple/ string cheese
(3) 200 calorie weight watchers meal
(3) protein bar
(5) crock pot chicken in salsa in 2 tortilla wraps

Have a great hump day!!!

Love Dare Day 2 Tomorrow

In addition to saying nothing negative to your spouse today. Do at least one unexpected gesture as an act of kindness.

Can't wait to hear how it all goes for you!

Mindy Tuesday

I am so sick. I feel like I have a buzz. But I haven't even taken any medicine. So I don't know what's going on. I woke up sick a few days ago, but had a hard time getting out of bed today. I think I have a fever. Anyway.

I still have a stong urge to exercise even though I'm sick. So I don't know which part of me will win. I've started cleaning the kitchen and starting to not feel so hot again so maybe I'll take today off.

Meals....a joke today. Not eating on time. Why do we have to get sick????

Planning for a better day tomorrow.

Tried to start the Love Dare but Sick BEAR came out instead. I'll try that again tomorrow also.

Keri 2/16/10

I loved the long weekend, sure wish it wasn't over!! It was a crazy weekend, but that is just normal for us!!

M1-Special K
M2-Fruit and Protein Shake
M3-Chicken tacos with lots of lettuce and salsa
M4-Fruit and Protein Shake
M5-Chicken and broccoli

I am trying really hard this week to do everything I am supposed to...I really would like to see a loss this week!! I did pretty good over the weekend until I started snitching cookie dough out of the bowl on Monday!! Dang free day was over, what was I thinking!!
I am excited to do the Love Dare challenge, I think it will be lots of fun!
I can't wait for warm weather, I am done with winter!

Have a great day!

Kami 2/16/10

This weekend was a struggle to be good! I did great until Sat. night at about 10 and started my free day a little early. I ate so much on Valentines that I wanted to DIE! I cheated a little Monday too but have gotten my work outs in. I did UBWO on Monday and 20 min. on the treadmill on Monday night. This morning I did a 20 min HIIT and it didn't hurt quite as bad as usual (no throwing up) That means progress right???

I have set a goal to have a free meal and treat on Sat. and be good the rest of the day. It is too hard to get back on track after I've totally blown it all day. Plus I feel like crap!!!

Meals:

(1) veggie/ egg beaters omelet & whole wheat bread
(2) apple and string cheese
(3) lean cuisine (200 calories)
(4) protein bar
(5) chicken and veggies

gratitudes:
-I am thankful for schedules that keep me on track
-Thankful for long weekends that leave me feeling refreshed.

Ahhhhh.....Sundays are hectic days at our house. Somehow that time getting my 2 boys out the door for church puts me in such a grumpy mood. I hope to work on that and someday enjoy getting to church with my kids....but we made it today - and that is a victory - right?

I've been feeling frustrated with things lately - and although I know I'm doing the right things, the exercise and eating clean - I'm just wishing I was seeing the outward results quicker. In my mind I should be further along in the journey.....although some of my clothes are getting looser I have others I got o put on and think they should be looser and they aren't yet....then I start second guessing what I've done wrong. I know it's a long-term program (or at least 18 weeks) - but I keep feeling like I'm 6 weeks into it - and wish I was seeing more outward results. I did read a page out of the "Body For Life Champions" book this weekend talking about how week 8 and 9 are when a lot of people feel like they magically start seeing results. I'm hoping that is the case and that I can pump it up a bit till then.....

I was also wondering about supplements. Do any of you take additional supplements? I'm not trying to builk up at all - just want to build the best lean muscle I can and wonder if I should be adding some nutritional supplements to help that. Any suggestions?

Ok - here's my plan for food today:
1- alternative WW bagel & cottage cheese
2 - protein shake
3 - brown rice with lean ground beef & salsa
4 - tuna and carrots
5 - egg beaters omlete with whole wheat toast
6 - apple with turkey/laughing cow cheese rolls

I am grateful today for the beautiful sunshine and gorgeous blue sky. I'm also grateful for the awesome Olympics - I feel inspired by the athletes and want to be a champion in my own life like they are. What awesome stories and energy!

Hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine's Day and good luck focusing on the relationships and love rather than the treats

Joanna - 2-11-10

I haven't posted in a few days - it feels weird. But I've been sticking on track, eating right and getting my workouts in. In fact - that's probably part of why I haven't posted - I've been so sore this week from the Tuesday leg workout I haven't been getting on my computer as much. I still feel like I'm walking like a pregnant woman (you know - the awkward stage where you waddle, move all weird and every movement takes major exertion?). Hopefully I'll get a day or 2 without hurting before we have another killer leg workout.....(did you ear that Leslie - take it a little easier on our leg workout tomorrow).

This week I had an exciting day where I had been pulling at my jeans all day long. (I hate wearing belts). That night I realized I could pull them clear off without even unbuttoning them. That was kind of exciting :) Since I've been optomistic before I happen to have several pairs of jeans in my next size down so I'm excited to wear them (new with tags on them!) in the coming weeks.

Food:

1. fruit and protein yogurt smoothie
2. beef tacos on corn tortillas
3. cottage cheese and rice chips
4. tuna salad (Sweet & Spicy tuna mixed with chopped carrots and chopped celery)
5. veggie soup and cottage cheese (?)
6. apple & jerky

I have BUNCO tonight so I'm psyching myself up to not eat goodies there. I have an easier time in public settings than when I'm home by myself. Especially if people know I'm working towards something like this - because then I guess my pride steps in and I don't want them to see me cheating. So let's hope I'm good tonight. I'm worried that if my kids don't calm down a bit I might be a little high-strung when the time comes and I hope I don't eat out of stress.

I'm really excited because I've been going back and forth about going to Dallas for the last few weeks. I'd decided no, I couldn't - then I'd still keep looking at ways to make it work. Last thing was that I had decided I was going to shoot for the Vegas or Denver conventions later this hyear. But today my husband told me he'd been planning on me going and really wanted me to make the trip. (I think he knows that if I truly do this Transformation and become my best self - I'll be a lot more fun as a wife and mom.) He's even trying to make it work that he'll come with me. I'm so grateful for his support, his belief in me, and his ability to dream big. I think in our relationship I'm definetly the one who sees all of the limits and he's the one who can dream and see our lives getting so much better. I'm grateful for that. I'm excited to be doing the Love Dare too - picked up my book today and I'm looking forward to it!

2/11/10

I am heading to St. George today to get a cut and color and then off to find Kelton some new Sunday clothes to wear to the Sweethearts dance on Saturday. Kody is feeling better but I didn't send him to school since it had not been 24 hours on his antibiotic until 10 this morning. So we are hanging out together today.

M1-alternative bagel and string cheese
M2-Turkey sand. on bagel and brocolli
M3-protein shake
M4-probably mongolian bbq since I will be in St. George--lots and lots of veggies!
M5-not sure--maybe another protein shake

I am so thankful to still be doing this journey, I know it will pay off!!
I am thankful that Kody is feeling better and hoping that no one else gets strep!

Kami 2/11/10

February Enrichment is done and was a success. I sampled a little too much homemade bread and pie crust, but will be better today!
It seems like such a small thing, but for some reason these activities REALLY stresses me out! Glad that Mindy is my co-pilot! I always have so much fun with her!

My house is a dump! Hopefully I can get it together before we leave for a weekend of baseball tournaments for Kache and Kolby. Happy Thursday! Thanks for letting me vent!!!

Meals
(1) alternative bagel/ peanut butter/ calorie free fruit spread
(2) apple string cheese
(3) hamburger and rice w/ 0 point soup
(4) protein bar
(5) Salmon and veggies


-I am thankful to have Monday off to "regroup"
-Thankful for such a supportive mom who is always there for me.
-Thankful for my cheerleader hubby who I adore.
-Thankful for my 3 rugrats who keep me RUNNING!

Kami 2/10/10

Haven't been here in a while. I have been SUPER sick! I have taken 2 days off of work in the last week and that is totally not like me, but this little bug has been that bad. I am sniffling, sneezing, and barking my way through today and have got to be on the down hill with this. I didn't work out at all yesterday because my lungs were so full of junk. I just hung out by my breathing machine. Today we did upper body at 5:15 am. My alarm didn't go off and so I arrived at 5:20am. I won't do that again! I got my HEAD bit off! lol It is good for me that I have people depending on me. I had a free day and a half (Sunday and part of Monday). I was on track with eating yesterday and WILL be good today.

Meals:
(1) whole wheat toast, peanut butter, calorie free jelly
(2) apple/gouda cheese
(3) 200 calorie microwave meal
(4) protein bar
(5) ?

-I am grateful for antibiotics
-Substitute teachers that can fill in last moment
-tissue with lotion infused
-big, fuzzy socks and hot tea

Mindy - Wednesday

I am having such a bad week. For the first 5 weeks of this challenge, I did not cheat once. Not once. But I have cheated every day this week. Sunday was a couple chocolate coverd marshmellows, Monday was a few bites of icecream, Tuesday was some Tootsie Frootie candies, but no cheating so far today.

My workout yesterday was 30 minutes on the treadmill and I made it 2.3 miles. My work out today...crappy. I only ran maybe 10 mintues of my 20 minute stretch. I felt really light headed and thought I could push through it, but add heart palpitations and I just couldn't go any harder. So I tried to do my weight training and the same thing. I just felt like crap. It's been an hour and a half and I still don't feel great. So I think I'll try it again in just a bit, now that I've got some food in my belly. Very Frustrating!!

As far as the cheating goes, I know why I'm doing it. Stress at work. But I can't eat the stress away and it's only going to cause more stress.

Anyway. Sorry for being the downer today. Just thought I'd get on here and confess so I can be accountable. Have a good day. Tomorrow will be better.....

Keri 2/10

My day isn't starting out to well, Kody woke up with a high fever, sore throat and headache. We are headed to the Dr. Strep is going around so I am afraid that is what he has. This is the first time he has been really sick since his chemo and radiation, we have been really lucky. Of course Karl is out of town, so I guess it is a day off from work for me.

I haven't been to Leslie's yet so not sure what the workout is but I am guessing cardio and Abs!

M1-Alternative bagel and string cheese
M2-Protein Shake
M3-Chicken salad with salsa
M4-Protein Shake
M5-Lean Cuisine (I am getting tired of leftovers)

My legs hurt so bad from the workout yesterday, I am so glad that it means progress!
I hope everyone has a great day!

Hey girls! Im a slacker on posting, i told myself I was going to get better and I still havent! anyway kinda a weird weekend, not in the greatest mood, I ended up in the E.R. cause of a bad reaction to medication I thought i was dying fun stuff. But Im all good now and in a lot better mood than i was yesterday, I was a little out of sorts to say the least! workouts have been going well and eating has been so far so good, I was sad I didnt make it to vegas with you guys heard it was great and you all did awesome!!!!
today:
cardio eliptical 20 min
killer LBWO
meals
m1-egg beaters in corn tortilla
m2-yogurt and cottage cheese
m3-string cheese and banana
m3-baked potatoe and cottage cheese
m5-chicken con carbon
m6-

how am i feeling greatful the last couple of days are over, and ready to move on. stressed financially and want to be over that and ready as always for a vacation!!

I am greatful for wonderful friends and for the breaks I get in the day to workout and feel like its the time I get for myself!!

6 words for you.....

I HATE LOWER BODY WORK OUTS!!!

(More later - just had to get that out....)

Keri 2/9/10

I forgot to post yesterday but it was a good day. No problems with eating and had a good workout.

M1-Whole wheat bagel and string cheese
M2-Protein Shake
M3-Turkey wrap
M4-Protein Shake
M5-not sure, probably leftovers since my fridge is full!!

I can't believe that we are already on week 6, time is just flying by!! I had a great time in Vegas, it was so fun to talk to everyone at lunch. Kody is already planning his next race, he says it is going to be a 10K!! That kid can run! I am so glad that all of my kids got their dad's running skills and not mine. Thank you Andy and Leslie for organizing the Vegas race, you guys are awesome and I appreciate all of the support you give me. I am so excited to do the Love Dare challenge...here's to a great week!

Love Dare

I wanted to invite you and anyone else interested to do the "Love Dare". It is a 40 day relationship challenge from the movie FireProof. Everyday there is a new assignment that you need to do and at the end of 40 days it promises that you will have a stronger and healthier marriage. They are simple but not easy assignments such as #1--Do not criticize one thing your spouse does today. If you can't say anything nice, do not say anything at all. I think it would be fun to work on our marriages at the same time as our transformation and discuss what we find and experience with eachother. The only thing that I ask is that you don't share what we are doing with the husbands. The experiment loses its power when they know they are being experimented on--lol! We are going to start next Monday on Day 1 so let me know if you are interested. The books are at most book stores and I've heard Wal-Mart? I bought mine at amazon and I have free shipping if you want me to order you one. I think this could be fun.....!!! Who's in?

Race Results

I have been searching for the results and kept getting an error page. Finally found this link. So here you go with the results everyone:

RACE RESULTS

Kickin' off Week Six!!

I just wanted to get on and post how incredibly fun it was to run with all of you this weekend in Vegas! I think it would be a blast to do more of that and get even more of our friends involved. I'm just curious about how you all felt? What was your favorite part? I want details......

Since that was a lot of your first races, I just wanted you to know that it wasn't normal that the first mile was so crazy. Races usually are lined up by speed with walkers, dogs, and strollers in the back leaving the runners plenty of room to run. But even with rain and some dodging, I still had a blast and I hope you did too. Make-a-wish raised over $230,000 dollars thanks to you and many others and that feels good. It was also cool to have our very own wish kid on our team. Cody ran the entire 3.1 miles and gave us all a run for our money. I'm so dang proud of him and of you too!

Joanna - 2-5-10

Yesterday was a tough day for me. I was just rundown, hungry, grumpy....but instead of trying to eat enough to help me in all 3 departments I didn't eat much at all. (? I don't really know why - it was a weird day). Anyway - by the end of the day I was starving. It was a good lesson to me to keep up on meals so I don't make dumb decisions.

Does anyone else feel like this is just continually a learning experience? I know at some point it will seem natural and normal, and I'll do it as easy as breathing - but right now I'm not at that point. I wish I could figure out the perfect mix of cardio/weights/protein/carbs/timing of meals - I just don't feel like I have it all together yet. Wondering at what point I actually will.....I'd love to hear everyone else's honest feelings on how they're coming along with it being natural for them.

Food today:

1. yogurt and carbmaster yogurt
2. lean cuisine
3. orange & cottage cheese
4. string cheese & apple
5. hamburger & rice with green beans and small green salad
6. ?

Today I'm grateful for sweet moments with my kids. I spent a good part of the afternoon doing puzzles with my 2 year old (over and over and over again). Everytime I'd hand him a puzzle piece he'd say "hanks mom!" - over and over. It started to get old, but after a million times it was really sweet. I realized that his sincerity was the same the last "hanks mom" he said as his first. I loved that he wasn't doing it out of obligation - but was genuinely grateful. I want to be more like my kids in that regard. (And in lots of other ways too!)

Excited to see everyone tomorrow. Looking forward to it being over :)

Keri 2/4/10 and 2/5/10

I didn't get a chance to post yesterday, I did good though. I went to a birthday party where they were having pizza and cake and I took my own chicken salad and passed on the cake. YEAH!

Today I was down another 2 lbs. so now it is a total of 12!

Yesterday's meals
M1-Oatmeal with protein powder Yuck, I won't do that again! I gagged down about 1/2 of it.
M2-Bagel and string cheese
M3-Chicken breast with brocolli and a tortilla
M4-Bagel and string cheese (again, I was at work and it was easy)
M5-Chicken salad with no dressing only salsa

Today's meals
M1-Bagel and string cheese
M2-Chicken breast with brocolli and a tortilla
M3-Bagel and string cheese (I am at work again)
M4-not sure
M5-not sure

I guess I didn't need to post each day, they are almost exactly the same!! Oh well....
I hope I make it tomorrow, Wednesday's 5K was 46 min. Hopefully I am not the last!!
Good luck to everyone!

Kami 02/05/10

Tomorrow is the big day!!! I am excited and nervous at the same time. I got to thinking, where do you keep your car keys/cell phone during the race? I'm thinking I might need to bring a fanny pack. Any better suggestions here??? Sundee and I am packing meals so we can stay "clean" for Superbowl Sunday!

I am a little stressed about the scale thing today. It showed that I have lost ZILCH this week! I have exercised and haven't cheated, but I think I am going to reevaluate my meals to make sure calorie wise that they are balancing out. Under 1300 calories is the goal right? or is it 1200??? Hopefully I'll figure out where I can improve and see some results!

Exercise: I did UBWO this morning and it was good, but I realized that I need to add 20 lb. weights to my collection.

Meals:
(1) oatmeal w/ 1/2 scoop protein powder
(2) apple/ string cheese
(3) microwave meal (180 calories)
(4) protein bar
(5) ???

Gratitdues:
-I am thankful for a sweet husband who tells and shows me that he loves me everyday.
-I am thankful for my mom and sister who are patient with me at my attempts to help us get healthy.
-I am thankful for Dr. Oz. He is a wealth of information on health and did an excellent show on Oprah yesterday about the diabetes epidemic. It was a real wake up call for me and scared me to death. AMERICAN'S are KILLING themselves with sugar! I didn't realize how serious of a problem this is. ScArY!

Chris Rile

I just found out that Chris Rile will be at the race on Saturday. He was the other champion that was named during my round. If you want to learn more about him before the race, his profile name is chrisrile. Also another new transformer from Las Vegas will be there. Her name is Em (Em2010) . She is nervous that she has to walk a little but I reassured her that, that is ok! If you have time to swing by and welcome her, that would be awesome!

Everybody Ready For Tomorrow???

I'm nervous but excited to run with everyone tomorrow. And Joanna, I doubt you will be last.

I took it easy again this morning due to tomorrow's race. 10 minutes running on treadmill, then did circuit training for upper body (P90x style). Did 2 different exercises for shoulders, biceps, and triceps and repeated twice.

Yesterday's meals were a joke, because I didn't get them in on time. I worked so I wasn't on a schedule with eating. This is what I had:

1: Oatmeal and egg beaters
2: protein bar
3: chicken salad
4: protein bar
5: protein shake (at like 10 pm)

So I guess it wasn't too bad, not enough carbs though. Anyway. Hopefully today will be better.

I'm excited to see everyone tomorrow. Go Team T.com!!

Gratitudes: Going to bed early. Being over-tired and trying to fall asleep is torture!! Mother's who will babysit while I run races!!

5k Saturday!!!!

Transformation.com Team 5K

9:15 AM, February 6, 2010

Hey Everyone,

For those running in the Make-A-Wish Foundation 5K on Saturday, February 6, here is a bit of information that might be helpful:

1) Leslie and I are going to pick up all of our team’s packets on Friday. If you signed up after Noon on February 2^nd then you are probably not officially on the team and will need to pick up your packet yourself before the race in front of Borders in Town Square.

BUT if you signed up before then, you don’t need to stand in line. Leslie and I will have your packets on race morning.

2) We will meet on the NorthEast corner of the Borders Bookstore Building between 8:15 and 8:45 AM Nevada time on Saturday morning. That’s the NORTHEAST corner of Borders in Town Square which is located at 6605 Las Vegas Blvd South. Directions are below. Please be on time so we aren’t stressing out waiting for people. If you are late or lost, PLEASE call my cell phone (435-590-3744) or Leslie’s (435-590-1267). If you are later than 8:45, we will give your packet back to the registration table which will be on the South side of Borders. The race starts at 9:15 AM, NEVADA TIME.

(IF for some reason the Northeast corner of Borders is blocked or too crowded, we will meet on the Northwest corner of Borders. Remember to please be on-time or early.)

3) After the race, there are some really fun things to do there. They will have food and music and just a bunch of fun stuff. Most of us will probably hang out at or near the finish line to cheer for each other as we come in. For those of you who want to go to lunch together, we will meet back at the same meeting spot (either northeast or northwest corner of Borders) after all of our team has crossed the finish line, and then head off to lunch.

4) For anyone who wants to come to lunch as a group, Leslie and I are going to the Sweet Tomotoes on Stephanie, just east of Sunset (375 N Stephanie St Ste 111 
Henderson, NV 89014). I also found a 2 for 1 coupon that you can print and bring with you. It is at the following link …. http://dealspl.us/imageview.php?f=96491

5) Leslie and I have decided to take the whole family, so we won’t have any room. Can you PLEASE email us back with the following information: 1- are you willing to drive someone? 2- How many extra seats do you have? 3- Do you need a ride from someone? 4- Your phone number. Do this BEFORE Thursday evening as I won’t be checking or helping to make arrangements after that. Also, if you get a ride from someone, it would be cool of you to offer them some gas money. (You all would have done that anyway, but just a friendly reminder.)

6) Leslie and I won’t be heading back to Cedar until the next day.

7) Directions to Town Square:

Take I-15 South

Exit at exit number 36 (Russell Road) and go left onto Russell Road

Go about a half mile and then Turn slight right onto Las Vegas Blvd.

Go about 1.2 miles and then turn right into Town Square.

You should be able to see Borders Books pretty easily.

8) Try your best to be early or on time. This is going to be fun. Can’t wait to see you all!

-Andy

Below are the actual coupon for Sweet Tomatoes and the Map of the Town Square complex and 5K route.

http://dealspl.us/imageview.php?f=96491

http://www.runforawish.com/ ....then click "Race Route" on the left

1265044246_1942.jpg

Route 2010 copy.jpg

Joanna 2-4-10

There are just some days when my kids make me nuts. I love them, I really do - but somedays I just need them to stop talking!!!!!

Today's workout kicked my fanny. I feel like I say that every day.....I guess that's a good thing. There was a point when I was doing jumping squats when I had to ask Leslie if I my feet were even leaving the ground - I felt like I had NO momentum. The next time we came around to that exercise (we were doing circuts) she said, "Ok Joanna - strength + speed = POWER". I just burst out laughing. The idea of making my exhausted legs do anything at all - especially something resembling "strength" or "power" was comical. It was either laugh or cry..... :)

I'm really dragging today all around. Just didn't feel like I got off to the best start. I started out really hungry and haven't been able to curb my appetite either. And I'm not just hungry for cottage cheese and carrots.....I'm craving naughty stuff. I keep telling myself Saturday is coming - but I'm still longing for bad food. I had to give in and make some homemade oven baked fries (which technically were still legal) and they helped....but I hope I can stop being so darn hungry. (I did only make one potato worth and I had it with cottage cheese). I honestly don't feel like this very often - so when I do it makes me a little nuts. Here's hoping I can stick to some kind of a plan the rest of the day.

Food:

1. Adkins protein shake
2. baked fries with cottage cheese
3. spinach and turkey wrap w/ side of carrots
4. apple & jerky
5. ???
6. protein bar

I'm grateful for days when my hubby helps around the house. I realize how grateful I am for those days when an off day happens and he doesn't do the things he normally helps with. Like today - my dishes are piling up in my sink because the clean dishes in the dishwasher haven't been emptied. Anyway - I'm focusing on being grateful for the help he does generally give me.

Kami 2/4/10

How crazy is this? One of my good friends from HS and who has lived in NYC for the past 10 years by some miracle will be in Vegas this weekend and just happened to sign up for the SAME 5 K race as me!! I found out through facebook. I've only seen her twice since HS and we are hoping to meet up at the race. I can't wait to see her!

Exercise: Cardio 20 min. HIIT & abs

Meals:
(1) yogurt/granola & string cheese
(2) apple & gouda cheese
(3) a. bagel/ww cream cheese, turkey and veggies
(4) protein bar
(5) chicken and veggies

Joanna 2-3-10

So I thought of something really exciting today after running my 1st 5k. The fact that I am going to be the last one across the finish line is actually a GOOD thing. Being last means that EVERYONE will be there to not only cheer me on in the end - but to take pictures to prove I did it :) So if you're going to be there Saturday please cheer extra loud and bring a camera!

So I did the 5k today. I had every issue possible - I felt like a stinker full of excuses - shoes needed tightened, my muscles were killing me, thought I was going to throw up, ended up with a blister from new running shoes (ended up tightening them TOO tight - go figure). Anyway - when it was done (45 minutes later) I was still alive, and I think that's a great thing. I'm really nervous for Saturday, but it's all for fun (and the sweet Make-a-Wish kids) - right?

Food today:

1. Carbmaster yogurt and fruit = smoothie
2. yogurt & string cheese
3. lean cuisine
4. cottage cheese & orange
5. Spinach and turkey wrap and side of salad
6. carrots & something.....

Today I am grateful for listening ears - people who understand and listen to my troubles.

I'm also grateful that while my kids are generally messy - they aren't always as bad as they've been today. I'm pretty sure my house looks like a tornado has hit.

Mindy 2/3/10

Mindy + 5 K = 41:33

Yahoo!!

Joanna - 2-2-10

I am dragging today....I'm feeling my arm workout from yesterday and after this morning my legs are still a little wobbly. I'm tired, but it's a good tired - a worn out from working hard tired and not a sluggish feeling from eating wrong and not taking care of my body. I'm grateful for the difference.

Today's workout was tough. I felt strong for most of my HIIT run and then my legs felt so weak through my LBWO. I just felt like I was about to crash on the floor after every lunge. Whew - it tough. But it was also awesome.

Leslie and I also looked over a training schedule for a 1/2 marathon and I'm in. I'm going to sign up for the Bryce Canyon 1/2 July 17th. If any of you want to join me it would be awesome. With the training schedule that Leslie showed me it's totally doable from this point in time. I'm actually looking at the Summer Games 10K in June to warm up for it - and any of you are invited for that too.

Food for today:

1. Atkins protein shake (I tried this for the first time today and I really liked it. 15 grams of protein and 150 calories. The carbs were really low too. I tried strawberry and it didn't have a yucky taste - it was just like a strawberry shake!)
2. cottage cheese and orange
3. spinach and chicken wrap
4. apple and string cheese
5. Schwan's Marco Polo chicken with broccoli
6. protein bar

I'm grateful for supportive people in my life - family, friends, online support - with good support we can do anything!

Clean cars - I LOVE washing my car till it's sparkling and clean. Now if it could at least stay that way till I get home from the car wash.

Colors - think of how dull our lives would be if there wasn't any color in the world. So grateful for colorful sunsets, sunrises, the beautiful colors of my kids eyes.

Keri 2/2/10

Todays workout was hard....I got through it though!!

M1-Special K and boiled egg
M2-Protein and fruit shake
M3-WW Bagel with turkey, lettuce and weight watchers cream cheese. Broccoli
M4-Protein and fruit shake
M5-not sure maybe a bagel sandwich again.

I did so good yesterday with my meals until about 8:30 when I decided I needed a tortilla roll up with turkey and cream cheese. I would have been just fine on points if I would have just had that but I snuck in another tortilla and went over 2 points!! Dang it!! Oh well, my whole workout today probably went to that stinkin' tortilla!

Kelton needed my car yesterday so I took the suburban and when I went to get in I slipped on the ice and landed flat on my back. I am sure the neighbors got a good laugh!! Oh well at least I wasn't hurt just my pride.

Transformation Questions

Hey, a few woman have asked me to teach them a little bit about transformation and so I am having a meeting at my house tomorrow at 1:30. If any of you would like to come and share or know someone who would like to listen, we'd love to have them.

Wed, Feb 3, at 1:30 p.m.

Leslie

Kami 2/2/10

Ran a 5k this morning in 40:48. I was happy to shave a few minutes off of my first time, but man it was HARD!!! Tonight I'm going to do some abs and then plan the LBWO circuit for tomorrow. We were given pedometers at school yesterday as a challenge to "walk fit" The goal is 10,000 steps. Just from the run I was over 6,000 steps at 6:30 am. That felt awesome!

Meals:
(1) Whole wheat oatmeal choc./chip muffin (naughty) and veggie omelet
(2) apple/gouda cheese
(3) salad w/ veggies, turkey/ egg whites/whole wheat roll
(4) protein bar
(5) ???

Gratitude:
-My sweet visiting teacher who I barely know (she just got assigned to me) knew that yesterday was going to be particularly stressful for me and showed up at my house with two pizzas! I wanted to cry! Her kind and thoughtful actions meant so much to me.

Have a great Tuesday!!!

Mindy 2/2/10

Hey, hey!! Two days in a row!! I'm on a roll.

Did LBWO today, then HIIT. Jesse wanted the treadmill first so I ran at the end of my work out. Very hard!! I prefer to run first. But gotta share, right?

I totally wanted to change my workout half way through but I stuck to it and finished all of what I had planned. I felt like I squatted with enough weight, but maybe need to increase the other weights. Lunges and calves were tough, but maybe I'll add 5 lbs next time???

Meals...I'm going to do better today and get all of them in on time.

I don't work today so I'm going to enjoy it!!

Have a good day, everyone!!

Mindy 2/1/10

I'm feeling really down today. I worked on my t.com assignments and got them done last night. Assignment 4 was so draining. I was emotionally wore out. That's why I'd been avoiding it. I am truly an emotional eater. I cheated for the first time in 4 weeks. I had a comforting bowl of frog eye salad. I didn't feel bad about it at all.

I'm back on the wagon and on the program today.

I woke up at my regular time (5:40 am) and Jesse and I hit the home gym. I ran for 20 minutes straight (felt good), then did UBWO for 25 minutes.

Meals:

1: Oatmeal & egg beaters
2: Protein bar
3: yogurt & string cheese
4: steak & whole wheat english muffin
5: missed
6: missed

So my attitude stinks today. Work stress is about to kill me. I promise I'll be in a better mood tomorrow. Planning to run a 5k on Wednesday.

Joanna 2-1-10

Well after a kind of rough day yesterday I was grateful to start fresh today. I'm not going to beat myself up over having an off day yesterday - just going to forge ahead :).

Food Today:

1. fruit and carbmaster yogurt (made into smoothie - my hubby added some protein powder, but I'm going to avoid doing that because it adds more protein than I need and extra calories).
2. spinach flat out wrap with spinach and chicken (check out the flat out wraps here - the light ones are great - only 90 calories, full of fiber and even 9 grams protein! I have bought them @ Lins - they are in the bakery/deli area - at the top of the shelf between those 2 sections - above some rolls.)
3. cottage cheese & orange
4. either protein shake or 1/2 protein bar
5. wheat pasta with sauce and light hamburger, spinach salad
6. other 1/2 of protein bar

My focus today is to write down not only what I plan to eat - but what I actually eat. I'm also writing down the times I eat - hoping to help me get the meals in that I need to. I've actually put together a little food tracking sheet that is almost the same to the one in the back of the Body For Life book (if any of you have seen that). If any of you are interested in a copy of it let me know - I'll email it to you. It's just a planning sheet that has spots to track your plans, and then what you actually eat. And spots to mark off that you got enough servings of proteins, carbs, veggies, water. I'm a visual person and it helps me to glance at it and remember what I need to finish up with. Anyway - leave me a note in the comments if you want me to email it to you. :)

Upper body circut was tough this morning. Leslie said, "we're going to do 8 rounds" and I about died. We only made it through 5 (and still went way over on time) - but it was still tough.

Grateful today for libraries - isn't it awesome that we have such a wealth of knowledge available to us? On my list of careers I'd love to have "someday" would be to be a children's library worker. I love childrens books and reading with my children!

Sundee

Well I started exercising with my sister Kami this morning. We started at 5:10 which is REALLY early for me. We did a P90 X arm and core video. It was so hard! I couldn't even do half of it but still felt like I worked my arms. I wanted to throw up when I was done. Does that feeling go away after you get stronger? I sure hope so.

Today's food-
M1- omelet with 1 cup strawberries.
M2- Atkins protein bar with 1 gram sugar. (These aren't to bad)
M3- Lean cuisine turkey with green beans. 150 calories 1 cup strawberries 50 calories.
M4- String cheese with 6 triscuit crackers (I might throw in some zero point soup)
M5- chicken fajita with corn tortillas and some broccoli.
M6?

I am thankful for Kami. She is going to be a great work out partner! Thankful for my home. Thankful for my bed that I will want to fall in tonight!

Keri 2/1/10

Yeah for Week 5!! I am so happy that I am still doing this...thank you to everyone for all of your encouragement! I am going to try really hard this week to get at least 5 meals every day.

M1-Special K and boiled egg
M2-protein shake
M3-Turkey and whole wheat bagel with lettuce and weight watcher cream cheese (soooo good!!)
(Joanna I love those alternative wheat bagels, thanks for sharing)
M4-other 1/2 of protein shake
M5-chicken tacos with lots of lettuce and salsa

Todays cardio was hard but I did it! Upper body circuit makes my arms feel like jello. Sure wish I could just pull my hair up!!

5k Saturday

Kami, I'm wondering if i could use that extra spot in your car. I have a friend that needs a ride if that would be ok? Thanks so much, Leslie

Kami 2/1/10

Well, I don't know how good it was but I completed my first on my own workout this morning. Proud of myself for showing up. Hopefully in time I'll get this all figures out!

Meals:
(1) oatmeal/egg
(2) apple/gouda cheese
(3) crap, I left my lunch home....Protein bar??? Will see, but something CLEAN!
(4) chicken wrap, veggies
(5) yogurt/cottage cheese

I finally committed and signed up for the 5K on Saturday. I am way excited to participate even if I have to crawl over the finish line! This is the first 5k or "k" of any kind for me. I can't wait! I am driving down and my sister and Melinda Dotson are riding along, but we do have room for 1 more if anyone needs a lift. We won't be staying for the "free day lunch" afterward because we are saving our free day for superbowl Sunday.

Gratitudes:
-Feeling grateful to know even when I don't feel it that I do have the power within me to change, but I must dig deep!
-I ate very clean yesterday and was so thankful that I was able to stick to my guns, because last Sunday I really struggled and felt like crap at the end of the day. Last night felt great!

I just wanted to thank you all again for the great month and let you know that I am going to continue training as a business. I would love it if you would consider recommending me to friends or anyone else that you may know of that is needing help or motivation on their own fitness journey. I am offering packages based on an entire 18 week program and have made my prices about 40% less than a session at Gold's Gym while offering 50% more time (Gold's is $37 for a half hour session).

I have two options

OPTION #1 --5 sessions a week for the entire 18 weeks= $1800
OPTION #2--3 sessions a week for the entire 18 weeks= $1350

All sessions are 1 hour in length and will be held in my home. If any of you are interested in additional training, your program will cost less because you have already done the first 4 weeks--Woo Hoo!

Before and week 4 photos

Kami.white@ironmail.org
mjsmith@scinternet.net
coryjoannaellis@msn.com
amanda.brlw@gmail.com
dabholmes@msn.com
kericallison@hotmail.com

These are the email addresses that I have on file for you. I emailed you your side by side pictures so that you can have a digital image for yourselves or to put online :)

I wanted to say a HUGE thank you for all of your energy and commitment to me this month. I loved every minute of spending time with you and watching you shine! Please keep with it and if you every consider "quitting", call me and let me remind you how awesome you are! Everyday is a choice and YOU are doing it!

Thank you for the gift basket. It had all of my favorites! You guys are the greatest!

Leslie

Feeling so, so, so much better

I am feeling so much better after our meeting today. I love the concept of "this is my before pic, this is my progress pic". I am not done. Thank you everyone for agreeing to post your pics. I now feel like the progress that we thought wasn't there, really is there. We busted our butts and it shows!!

Leslie, will you email me my side by side shot so I can post it on transformation, or tell me how to put the two together and I can create one myself?

Thanks again. I'm off to enjoy my free day!!

I cant Believe its already been 4 weeks

I am so greatful for this chance we have had to gain the knowledge and little succeses everyday with Leslie! Thank you so very much for your time and your sacrifice to be with us, you are the greatest Leslie you have touched my life more than you will ever know! I am sad to think of today as being the last day. After getting my results today I looked at it as a stepping stone to greater and better things to keep coming in the future, Im down 8 punds for the month, yes i would love double digets but i will take that, however, I was exited that my hip size had gone down 2", but I have a ways to go still. I know we have all worked hard and Im exited to see everyone transform through out this transformation!!

m1-EAS bar
m2-
m3-turkey sandwich with mustard on wheat bread
m4-yogurt and cottage cheese
m5-turkey wrap on spinach tortilla
m6-string cheese and apple

How am I feeling: sad that today is the last day, stressed with my hubby anyone up for taking him off my hands and beating him jk!! and ready to climb into a cave and shut the rock behind me. wow that doesnt sound good does it! sorry thats a little negative im a little stressed today!!
I am exited to see everyone in the morning!!

Joanna - 1-29-10

Ok - I've struggled so far today with being positive. I wasn't thrilled with my results and I need to do the same thing and remember that it does take time. I read a quote by Thomas Paine today that said,

"That which we obtain too cheaply we esteem too lightly." --Thomas Paine

This is hard and that's because it's worth it. If we work hard at it we will be even more grateful for it later in life as we're able to share it with others.

But I am realizing that my accomplishments are both physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional. Truthfully the results I've had mentally this month far out-weigh the physical results. I was at an UGLY place before starting this and though I'm not at 100% of where I want to be mentally and emotionally - I can't believe how far I've come in just 4 weeks. My self talk, my attitude, my optimism and hope for something better, my desire to help others feel good too - I feel like that is where my triumph has been.

Today's food:

1. cottage cheese & yogurt
2. carrots and protein shake
3. tuna with veggies and bagel
4. protein bar
5. soup and roll, green salad
6. ?

I think this past week I haven't been great at following through with what I planned to eat. I don't eat crap, but a lot of times I skip meals, or even replace with a healthy alternative (but not as healthy as I COULD be eating.) I also haven't been great about including enough veggies in my diet this last week.

I'll see you all tomorrow morning. Thanks ladies for being a part of this journey - you are all AMAZING!!!!!

Kami 1/29/10 Last day (snif, snif)

I can honestly say even though Leslie worked me to death I am SOOOO sad to see this end. Now the pressure is really on me to follow through and to be honest it scares me to death, because I am so used to letting myself down and not being accountable to myself. I am going to try to take this a day at a time and try not to look to far into the future to help me not get overwhelmed and to stay on track. I will try to live by the quote in my kitchen that says "Inch by inch life's a cinch" Mile by mile it's life's a trial.

As with Mindy I was a little disappointed in some of my assessing results, but that is my fault. I need to get it through my thick skull that results come with consistency and TIME! We live in such a "I need it and I need it now". When really things that come easy (and fast) usually aren't lasting. I really need this to last and so I'm going to need to work really hard for it and that is actually a good thing.

Meals:
(1) oatmeal/hard boiled egg
(2) apple/string cheese
(3) lean cuisine
(4) cottage cheese/ sweet potato
(5) protein bar/veggies

Gratitudes:
It is hard to describe in words how grateful I am for this life changing opportunity. I will forever be grateful for Leslie's sacrifice of time, sleep, family, LIFE, and much more on my behalf! What an amazing and selfless gift she have to each of us. Thank you for believing in me enough to take me on as one of the "chosen". We are all SO lucky and blessed!!!! I too will miss spending time with Leslie each day. She is an AMAZING person and I only hope that I can give back in some way like Leslie has given to me! Thanks for your awesome example!

Last Day

Today was great. After the measurements and assessment, I am slightly disappointed that my numbers (especially my weight) wasn't better. But this is the typical self-degrading attitude that I am trying to change. Instead of focusing on the positive changes, I am focusing on the fact that I don't have "The Biggest Loser" results. I know that is NOT realistic for me. So here is what I am forcing myself to focus on:

Endurance...I can run for more than 3 minutes consecutively. I could not say that before. I ran a 5K!

Strength...I know that I am stronger. I gained an inch in my biceps!! That is good.

Heart rate...I recovered quicker after the step test.

My percentages will only get better from here. I am determined to keep this up and I feel that I've gained the knowledge needed to succeed.

Leslie, thank you so much for this opportunity. Thank you for your sacrifice. I know it was a sacrifice for you and your family and you have given us more than you know. I'm sad that we won't see each other each day, but I know that you will share in my excitement as little victories come my way. Thank you for your support. THANK YOU!!

Tomorrow is the Last Day :(

I have such crazy mixed feelings about tomorrow being the last day. It has been such a blessing to be able to work with you. Thank you for allowing me to learn with you, get to know you , and share a piece of your journey. You have all amazed me with how hard you have worked. Thank you for trusting me.

The final meeting will be a my house Saturday morning at 8 am. It will be less than an hour. I will be giving you an evaluation form tomorrow during your last session. The evaluation means a ton to me and I would love it if you answered the questions as thoroughly as possible. Giving more info than you think is needed would be awesome!

We will be doing a cardio (last chance workout!) and then the final assessment. Please wear the same or similar clothing as your start pics and be ready to be amazed at your hard work and results! Imagine what another 14 weeks will bring!

The Race- Registration for the race closes on Feb. 1. If you are not signed up, you need to sign up before Mon. It is going to be a great time. I'm wondering if there is someone else that is willing to drive? My sister is havin a birthday party for my niece on that same day and I am really wanting to stay for it....? Let me know if you can help in that way.

Leslie

Kami 1/28/10

Cardio was HaRd this morning! I feel awesome now though! I can tell my metabolism is changing because I am feeling more hungry than I did in the beginning. A hot cup of herbal lemon tea helps when the hunger hits. Saturday is on it's way girls! FREE DAY is just around the corner. I am excited for assessments tomorrow. No matter what the outcome is, I know it is better than where I started.

Meals:
(1) Egg/ sweet potato muffin
(2) apple/1 oz. gouda cheese ( This is such a treat!)
(3) green salad/ egg whites/ little turkey/ ff/cal free dressing/ whole wheat roll
(4) protein bar ( The Adkins bars have lots of protein with only 1 or 2 grams of sugar)
(5) sweet potato/ cottage cheese

Gratitudes:
-Body For Life book. It is full of great information. Last night I read about being honest with yourself. Keeping my word to others is not optional, but for some reason I can lie over and over again to myself. I am going to stop treating myself this way and follow through on commitments I make to myself! I owe it to myself!
-I am grateful that for the first time in my life when I eat something terribly fattening (on free day), I am able to do so without the slightest feelings of guilt. Instead of beating myself up I can actually enjoy whatever I want and still feel good about me! This has been an unexpected surprise for me and I LOVE IT!

Joanna 1-28-10

Feeling great this morning. After spending a good part of the day yesterday icing my hamstrings I got feeling worse - they were cramping up even more. So I stretched and stretched and hopped on my treadmill last night at like 9:00. It felt so good! I ran a while but then they started feeling really sore again so I walked the rest - felt good to get in 2 more miles after having already done 2.5 that morning. Then I stretched, stretched and stretched some more and slept better than I have in months. It was hard to get out of bed after sleeping so well....

Today I'm still SO tight in my hamstrings, but it felt awesome to run some - in fact running felt better than some of the bending and lifting I do just through the day :)

Food today:

1. eggs and toast (have you guys tried this bread? It's pretty *light*, but it's good.)
2. protein bar
3. tuna salad made with carrots and celery
4. apple and string cheese
5. homemade soup with hamburger and rice....maybe a whole wheat roll?
6. ???

Lots to do today and it feels great to have attacked the day with exercise first. Doesn't it feel fantastic to have that done and out of the way?

Gratitudes:

1. conversations with others when they just get it too...when you share, you talk, and you help each other. I had several of those yesterday that left me with tears of gratitude.
2. snow shovels and a husband who normally takes care of that....but grateful for the extra workout I got doing it this morning :)
3. visiting teaching - I start visiting some new people today, with a new partner and I'm excited!

Kami 1/27/10

It's a great day for a 5K! I can't believe it didn't kill me! It actually felt really good and I left feeling energized!

Has anyone else noticed themselves singing this little song?
"Oh where oh where have my bigger boobs gone, oh where oh where could they be?"
So all of the sudden I have NO chest. My bra is drowning me! Wish the fat would come of other places instead, but I'll take what I can get!

Meals:

(1) egg beaters/veggie omelet........a smidge of granola
(2) apple/string cheese
(3) Smart ones meal
(4) protien bar
(5) another protein bar........this is not good I am just starving for some reason!
(6) ??? (not a protein bar though)


Feeling good about the exercise but stressed that our health insurance is changing to equal more $$ out of pocket for Preston's medicine. It is highway robbery I tell you! I am grateful he does have medicine that can help him. I just wish we it wasn't such a monster to pay. The most important thing is that he has his health is in tact.

Have a great HUMP day!

Joanna 1-27-10

Well I wish I was getting on here to scream and shout about my success doing a 5k on the treadmill today.....but instead I'm getting on to say I think I'm injured and had to walk the whole time. Bummer huh? I am pretty sure I've done a little more than just wear out my hamstrings - I'm starting to worry I might have done something more to them. They hurt to the touch, they hurt to stretch - the just HURT. Luckily my little boys are going to my mother-in-law's for the next few days so I am sitting in my bed (and scrapbooking) putting ice on them off and on and hoping I'll be back and ready to go soon. If anyone has any advice I'm open to anything - so share what you've heard works.

Food:

1. bagel & cottage cheese
2. yogurt & string cheese
3. lean cuisine
4. protein shake
5. tuna salad with celery and carrots & apple
6. protein bar

I'm hoping to make it through these next few days and eat healthy...like I mentioned - my kids and hubby are gone for the next few days. Normally I would be excited about some quiet time, time to not have to prepare meals for them, clean things up, stick to any kind of schedule....but I think normally that would also involve eating junk food, some meals out - indulging. So I'm hoping I won't eat out of the desire to indulge, or out of the fact that I'm alone. I'm trying to be aware of the situation and not eating out of boredom. Wish me luck.

Gratitudes -

1. Snowy weather on days when I don't have to drive in it. It really is beautiful!
2. Drinking water - we've had some water issues the last couple of days (now resolved) and it's so great to have yummy tasting water from the tap again!
3. The gift of prayer and knowing someone is listening.

Keri 1/27/10

I got a good workout on the treadmill today. I went to St. George yesterday and bought me some new running shoes only to find out today that they hurt my feet! I tried on lots of different ones and thought I had found the perfect pair, oh well--- I am more hungry today than I have been so it is a good thing that I am at work and not around food!

M1-Special K and boiled egg
M2-Smart Ones and clementine
M3-Yogurt and string cheese
M4-Chicken stir fry
M5-maybe I will try a protein shake

Gratitudes:

I am so thankful for my family and how they encourage me
I am thankful for Leslie and that she believes in me.
I am thankful that St. George is so close so that I can go shopping at real stores!!

5k Wednesday

Can you believe we did it??? I don't know if all of you are the same as me, but this is my first 5k ever. EVER!! I am so high right now. I cannot believe I did it. 43:47

Thanks, Leslie, for pushing me and for telling me over and over that I could do it. I feel so accomplished. I've been worried about Vegas, but now I KNOW I can do it and I'm looking forward to it!!

Joanna - 1-26-10

I'll echo Mindy's comments - HOLY HAMSTRINGS! This is the most sore I've been the whole time - I can hardly walk. I can't believe that I'd feel so sore from a few sets of dead lifts....but I truly feel like I'm walking like a 90 year old lady - and forget trying to bend over for anything....

I was really disappointed in how I felt in my run today. I felt great yesterday, but today I just hurt. I hurt all along it and I kind of wimped out. I had a really hard time breathing, saw stars, got dizzy, thought I was going to throw up...yeah - it felt lousy. Here's hoping tomorrow feels better and that I can pull it together.

Food today:

1. fruit/yogurt/protein shake (my hubby has started making these for me every morning while I'm working out. It helps me so much to have something he hands me as I walk in the door from Leslie's - love him!!!)
2. hamburger with brown rice, added green beans and some ketchup (not the *best* choice, but not the wrost either)
3. apple with peanut butter & beef jerky
4. cottage cheese & ?
5. cabbage salad with chicken
6. protein bar

Gratitudes:

1. FRESH air! I have my bedroom window open right now just because the fresh air feels so awesome. My house heats up like a sauna most days and on a nice one like today all I want is to let in some fresh air and breathe it in. Ahhhhh!
2. HOT baths - I could live in the bathtub. Give me a great big water bottle (or diet Dr Pepper - I won't lie), a good book, some music, a candle, maybe my laptop set up with movies on it....and I could just move in.
3. Quiet time. My hubby is taking my boys up north to my mother-in-law tomorrow for a few days. She's been begging to spend time with her grandkids, my hubby was heading up that direction anyway - and I get a few days of absolute quiet. I have a feeling I'm going to miss them right away, but I also know I won't miss all of the noise....

Kami 1/26/10

After feeling the bug coming yesterday I thought today would be awful, but I ran better than I ever have! It was amazing for me to hit 1.7 miles in 20 minutes and to run it all but the warm up. I've always believed that I could never run/swim distance. I was a sprinter in HS and would never have dreamed of ever doing anything that required much endurance because I didnt' have it. At age 33 I am getting some endurance for the first time in my life! It feels like I am breaking down a major thick, cement wall!

Meals:
(1) banana and string cheese
(2) Apple and string cheese
(3) smart ones meal
(4) ?
(5) ?

I feel great! I feel alive! I have muscle! YIPEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

Gratitudes:
-I am so grateful to have had this opportunity to change my life in a positive way! This has meant the world to me. Leslie gave me something I wouldn't have given myself.
-I am grateful for my family's support and encouragement. Every last one of them have given me words of encouragement. Even my 12 year old boy! I want to be a good example of good health for them.
-I am thankful for hot herbal tea and veggies that fill and warm my tummy when ever I need them.
-

Mindy - Tuesday

Holy Hamstrings!!

I was so tight in my hamstrings this morning, I could hardly lift any weight. But after stretching out a TON, I felt really good by the end of the work out. Cardio was super hard for me today. I didn't feel near as strong as I did yesterday. Resting over the weekend must have helped.

I've found that the exercises I hate doing the most, are the ones that I need to be doing more. It just means I'm weak. But not for long!!

I love eating my oatmeal and egg beaters for breakfast. It is just so much more filling to eat a hot breakfast compared to eating cold cereal. I haven't had cold cereal since I started this 4 weeks ago. Those of you who know how much I used to love cold cereal know that this is a miracle for me.

I'm so grateful for the relationships we form in this life. I'm grateful for my family. I'm grateful for my husband forgiving me when I totally freak out on him for things that other people or other situations do to frustrate me. He gets the bad end of things quite often.

Keri 1/25/10

Today's workout was a killer, but nice to have done!! I can't believe that we have been doing this for almost a month, time has flown by!

M1-Special K and boiled egg
M2-Triscuits and string cheese
M3-WW yogurt and boiled egg
M4-Chicken tacos
M5-not sure
M6-not sure

I would love to keep the blog going and report in to everyone. I love being able to read everyones thoughts and know that I am not the only one going through struggles.

Have a great day!

1/25/10- Kami

Today I am not quite feeling myself. I woke up at 3am with a sinus headache and am starting to feel my lungs fill up with junk. The joys of being asthmatic are few, but am glad that I have been pretty healthy this long. I get more and more excited as I get closer to my goal weight and am excited to continue for the full 18 weeks.

Meals:
(1) yogurt/1 tbs. granola & 1 egg
(2) apple/string cheese
(3) hamburger/rice and 1 cup 0 point soup
(4) tuna wrap
(5) ???

Am starting to think about a plan of how I want to continue this. I own P90X and quite a bit of equipment, but my sister is begging me to join the gym with her. I would really like to continue with our accountability blog. It really helps me stay on track. What are your plans? I am reading the BFL book again and really loving it.

Happy Monday!

Joanna - 1/25/10

Food: (edited to go with what I ATE instead of what I planned...often different...)

1. Protein shake
2. cottage cheese & rice chips
3. chicken/bean soup, whole wheat roll & carrots
4. apple & string cheese
5. taco salad
6. protein bar

Leslie pushed me to a speed I didn't think I'd survive today when running - but I made it! It felt so great the first time we did it - I could feel my lungs expand with every breath. It felt great when those speed bursts were over too. And my hamstrings got worked over doing the dead lifts...but that felt good too. Felt like a great workout today!

Lots to do today, but I enjoy the fresh start Mondays give us. Here's hoping for an awesome week!

Monday - Major Milestone

Today I ran for 18 minutes straight. I cannot believe it. It is my longest stretch for sure. I didn't think I would ever be able to run that long, but it felt good. I felt good. I'm pretty proud of that.

UBWO was good. Does any one else hate triceps as bad as I do? That just means I need to work them more.

I am so excited for Friday. I really want to see where I am with my measurements and the body analysis.

Only 4 more days with Leslie, ladies. Let's make them great!

3 weeks down another 2lbs lighter

Hanging in there going strong! This last week was a great kick but workout week seemed a little tougher than normal. Im sure its because Leslie is pushing us that much harder wich is a good thing, Im hurting in places i didnt know I had! Happy with the results that are happening however, and the workouts are awesome...yesterday had a free day, which was great however one thing ive noticed is I cant eat remotely as much as I used to which is good I get full pretty quick! today I tried out the treadmill again and my shins are still getting to me, it looks like another week on eliptical. had a great core workout today!

m1-oatmeal with protein powder & egg beaters
m2-eas bar
m3-grilled chicken, baked potatoe, & salad
m4-banana & string cheese
m5-ham & cheese on wheat bread
m6-

how am I feeling; exited about the up coming weeks, tired from my baby not sleeping this weekend!

I am so greatful for my nice warm bed that Im about to go climb in!! and as always my wonderful family!!

Keri 1/22/10

YEAH!! I am down 9 lbs!! I was so excited, I hope it keeps going!!!!

M1-Special K
M2-Chicken Taco
M3-String cheese and whole wheat bread
M4-not sure it is just me and Kody tonight and Kailee
M5-not sure

I can't wait for free day tomorrow!! Todays workout was a bear but at least I did it!!

Mindy - Friday

So I didn't make it to Leslie's this morning either. Sorry Joanna. It's my husband's fault. He sure appreciates Cory's help though!!

I did get my cardio in. 2 min @ 3.5, 1 min @ 4, 10 yes I said 10 min @4.5, 4 min @ 3.7, 8 min @ 4.5 and 2 min @ 5 mph. 2 miles in 28:49.

I started on my LBWO and got the leg presses in, then fiddled around with trying to get my Bowflex machine set up for the other exercises and it took so long, I had to go get ready for work. So I'll try to finish up tonight. Night exercises are not my thing.

My diet has sucked today. I haven't been eating on time so I haven't eaten anything since my snack at 10 am this morning. I'm starving and starting to go into the prowling mode. I'll have to hit Subway on my way home.

Very excited for my free day tomorrow.

Joanna - 1/22/10

I was frustrated with the whole working out situation this morning. My hubby went back and forth about 300 times between last night and this morning, "I'll be home to watch the kids for your workout." "I'll be out working on snow removal and won't be back - make other plans." Drove me crazy. I had finally told Leslie I wouldn't make it and then right after my normal workout time I was on my treadmill and he showed up. UGH! So I'm sorry I didn't make it Leslie.

I did go on my treadmill and kicked butt - I was curious if I could do it as long as I wanted to and I did! I did 2 miles in 30 minutes. (for Leslie's benefit: 3 min @ 3.5 - run 5 min @ 4.2 - 2 min @ 3.7 - run 5 min @ 4.5 - 4 min @ 3.7 - 4 min @ 4.2 - 3 min @ 3.7 - 4 min @ 5.0!!!) Then I did 5 sets of deep squats (Cory kept telling me I wasn't going far enough down) for 30 seconds at a time - 10 second breaks. He said he'd help me - but he didn't push me long enough - he stopped @ 5 sets and I could have totally done more....I did 4 minutes of calf raises too. Anyway - I know it wasn't the workout I would have gotten with Leslie - but it felt great to have done the running on my own without Leslie there to talk me through it. I felt really good about that and good that I pushed myself more than I would have normally. I certainly sweat a bunch - so I always think that's a good sign.

And from there on - my day got hectic and crazy. Trying to keep up a good attitude but I'm kind of cranky and tired and need to get some healthy food in me...

Food:

1. protein bar & carrots
2. lean cuisine (I need to eat less of these - but they are portion controlled and I make sure to get ones with at least 18 grams of protein. Helps when I'm in a hurry and wouldn't eat healthy otherwise.)
3. protein shake made with fruit
4. cottage cheese and apple
5. Chicken chili soup and whole wheat roll (this also isn't the *best* meal I could eat - but we're having friends from out of town over and it was something I could cook in the crockpot, reasonably healthy and sounded delicious). I'll probably try to fill up with some green salad too...
6. ??

I must admit I am looking forward to my free day. For me though it's actually more about not keeping up with the 6 meals and not having to PLAN what I'm doing every step. I haven't been obsessing over anything in particular that I want to eat. But I do have a yummy breakfast planned and a very small batch of cookies I want to make.....I'm going to work on being in control still and not letting myself emotionally eat. I love the saying, "Nothing tastes as good as being thin feels."

The funny thing is that my son is catching onto free days. He asked me the other day if I could eat something and then said, "Oh yeah - it's not Saturday". In fact - he is OBSESSED with fruit snacks - he has eaten them almost every day of his life. He recently made his own goal that he won't eat them on school days or Sundays (so the other 4 days of his week are fine). But I liked to see him making that goal himself - it was cute.

Oh - and I had Cory get my scale out (he has it in hiding so I don't obsess too much - I can weigh in on Fridays only) to weigh in after my workout and I'm down a total of 6.4 lbs since starting!!! I was excited about that - but it's the non-scale victories I'm trying to focus on. I put my jeans on yesterday and they were quite a bit looser in the waist - that was exciting! The #'s on the scale only tell us part of the story - but as we're adding more muscle to our bodies we'll see other changes too. Isn't it so exciting!?!?!?

I noticed yesterday that I really just felt strong and pulled together. I don't know if it was that my pants were feeling loose, or if the workout just felt awesome - but I felt great! I still had some moments of frustration with a few things - but I didn't get down on myself about them. I had kind of an "I can do anything!!!" attitude and felt mentally AND physically stronger. And that right there makes all of this worth it.

Love all of you girls and the hard work and effort you're putting into things! Have a wonderful weekend!!!

Kami 1/22/10

I think the word "PLANK" should start with the letter "F" because all I wanted to do was swear when I did them this morning. I probably shouldn't tell you that, but it's the truth. Lower body circuit KILLED me this morning! I got home just in time to throw up in the kitchen sink. YUM! Now that the work out is over. I FEEL AWESOME!

(1) protein bar (didn't think I could hold anything to heavy)
(2) apple/string cheese
(3) chicken and squash
(4) yogurt and cottage cheese
(5) rice/hamburger and 0 point soup

I went to be at 8pm last night because I so done with the day. It felt so good this morning to wake up and not feel sleep deprived. I'm going to try this more often. Feeling so strong and in control today. The weaker moments seem to be getting a little less frequent witch is a nice surprise.

Gratitiudes:
-Snow! We sure need it!
-Visiting teaching: I really enjoyed visiting with my sisters this week. I know I learn much more from them than they do from me.
-Smiles: "If you see some one without a smile, give them one of yours"
-TGIF BABY!
Have an awesome weekend!!!

Joanna - 1/21/10

Hey ladies!

I put on my jeans this morning - and they were looser! It's given me a bounce in my step and made me feel like this really is working! I'm starting to see my abs again (still have so far to go - but at least I know they're there!), I can feel a difference - and I love it!

Food:

1. fruit/yogurt/protein shake (thanks again to my hubby - sure love him!)
2. Lean Cuisine (this one is YUMMY!)
3. Protein bar
4. cottage cheese and yogurt
5. ???
6. ???

Today I DEFINETLY reached burn out with my muscles!!! But I LOVED the rush of adreneline and blood I could feel rushing into my muscles afterwards. We'll see if I'm excited about it tomorrow when I can't raise my arms up....

Gratitudes:

1. My hobbies - I love being creative and making the digi scrapbook stuff I do. I love the feeling of accomplishment after finishing a new project and I'm grateful for the creative teams I get to be on.
2. Water - I'm so glad I'm getting into the habit of drinking more water again! I don't know what I've been doing this past year as I've dehydrated my body....
3. SNOW! YAY - so excited to be looking outside and FINALLY seeing it come down.

1-21-10 Debbie

Hey everyone, I'm still here. Sounds like all of you are doing great. Congrats!! My life has been crazy this week. Leslie I still love your workouts. But I'm really sore this week. Be there tomorrow at 8am*. Joanna and I switched out our times, it helps us both. It is hard to change to many things that I know I won't keep up. Remember the changes you make you want to be comfortable to keep up with and not to just get to a certain weight or size. Still need to live your life, but just healthier and happier. This is just a thought I had to share. Thanks for not giving up on me Leslie, you are awesome!!
Have a Great Day-Everyone! :)

1/21/10-Kami

Whaz up ladies?

I've been a overly swamped this week and haven't been reporting on the blog like I should, but I have been eating clean. Hopefully things will slow down at least a smidge after Friday.

Food:
(1) hard boiled egg, yogurt with a sprinkle of homemade granola.
(2) apple/string cheese
(3) salad with a little turkey and egg whites, whole wheat roll
(4) yogurt, a sprinkle of granola and some sort of protein.
(5) grilled chicken and zuchini

-I am feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. Some weeks are just like that. I'm really needing a nap, but it won't be happening until at least Saturday. I went to scratch an itch on the back of my leg (quad) the other day and grasped onto a pretty big muscle (at least for me)! It was so fun and so unexpected!

Gratitudes:
-I'm grateful for pretty nice kids at least most of the time. I'm glad they chose me to be their mother, but sometimes wonder if they made the best choice for them. I love them to pieces and am glad they love me even if I'm nuts!

LIA SOPHIA:
I am hosting a jewelery party tomorrow at my house at 4:00 pm. If you'd like to add some fun accessories to your new body stop by! If jewelery is not your thing that's okay too! Feel free to stop by and pick up some treats for your "free day" I am making caramel brownies, snowballs and some other junk that I will be pigging down on Sat. as well. Have a great Thursday!