BetsCblog Bites

aMayzing 30 Day Challenge - Day 6

2012-02-23T04:31:00.000-05:00

February 22, 2012

BootCamp: Strength & Cardio Training

60 minutes

Move over ...

2012-02-22T04:43:00.000-05:00

Move over Salt & Vinegar, ...there's a new taste in town!

aMayzing 30 Day Challenge - Day 5

2012-02-22T04:40:00.000-05:00

February 21, 2012

Treadmill: Run

70 minutes
5.50 miles
905 calories
5.0 mph
0 incline

aMayzing 30 Day Challenge - Day 4

2012-02-21T13:11:00.002-05:00

February 20, 2012

BootCamp: Strength & Cardio Training

60 minutes

Treadmill: Interval Run-Incline/Run-Speed

83 minutes
6.17 miles
1005 calories
4.0/5.0/6.0 mph run
3 incline

Max'd Out Fitness: Core & Cardio Training

60 Minutes

aMayzing 30 Day Challenge - Day 3

2012-02-19T19:01:00.006-05:00

February 19, 2012

Treadmill: Interval Run/Walk

75 minutes
4.17 miles
886 calories
4.0 mph run / 3.0 walk
10 incline

Scale, what scale?

2012-02-18T18:53:00.003-05:00

Kenny loves to tease me, ...it's okay, scale, what scale? Number 4, check!

See, I got this!!!

aMayzing 30 Day Challenge - Day 2

2012-02-18T10:27:00.003-05:00

February 18, 2012

Treadmill: Run

75 minutes
5.33 miles
865 calories
4.5 mph
0 incline

(Oh, and yes, I was tempted by the scale so Kenny grabbed it up and made it disappear.)

aMayzing 30 Day Challenge - Day 1

2012-02-17T15:33:00.003-05:00

February 17, 2012

BootCamp: Strength & Cardio Training

60 minutes

Treadmill: Run

70 minutes
5.2 miles
860 calories
4.5 mph
0 incline

aMayzing 30 Day Challenge

2012-02-17T15:17:00.009-05:00

February 17, 2012

Current weight: 157.0 lbs.
Measurements: 23"

I'm excited, I love being part of a challenge, because it is just that ..."challenging."

So, for the next 30 days, I will test my strength, endurance, pride, and most of all my belief in myself to achieve what I have set out to do. Transform my body!

My aMayzing 30 Day Challenge!

2012-02-17T14:42:00.010-05:00

My aMayzing 30 Day Challenge

Start Date: February 17

End Date: March 17

Rules:

1.) Exercise 1 hour sessions daily for 30 days.

Max'd Out 2X Week
BootCamp 3X Week
Running 4X Week

2.) Eat Clean.

Food for Fuel

3.) Water.

Drink 4 Nathan Bottles per day.

4.)

Skip the scale!

Are those really my legs?

2012-02-16T14:56:00.000-05:00

Today while doing the "Evil Betsy's" during my morning BootCamp I couldn't help but look at my legs and think "are those really my legs?"

It's funny how much your body can change with exercise to the point that you don't even recognize it! LoL

Drum roll ...

2012-01-28T10:52:00.001-05:00

I am doing the happy dance today!

I just returned home from my Saturday morning Weight Watchers Weigh In and drum roll, ... I lost 3.2 lbs. this week! Okay, I need to mention that this was really a two week period since I missed last Satrday due to the ice, ...but I'm so excited because I learned that using up my 49 additional points and any activity points really does provide the real benefit!!!

On average I lost 3 times the weight I was loosing by "not" using them. So, no more saving them like they are gold, ...just going to continue to eat healthy and use them as my body needs them!

What's the surprise ...

2012-01-28T10:45:00.002-05:00

I've been getting a few emails asking about the "surprise" in my recipe called Tuna Salad Surprise.

Well, there's not really a surprise, but, ...more of a "surprise factor." You see, I really don't like the taste of tuna fish (or the smell) so for me to actually make and eat a recipe containing tuna fish ranks from challenging to impossible.

Staying true to this weeks "theme" of facing fears I took a tuna challenge and turned the impossible into not only possible but into something that is delicious and leaves you satisfied yet somehow wanting more!

So, to answer the question about the surprise, ...it's tuna salad and the fact that I came up with a tuna recipe that I truly like was a huge "surprise" for me!

Raspberry Vanilla Protein Shake

2012-01-26T05:12:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:

1 cup - Almond Milk

1/4 cup - Greek Yogurt (plain)

1 scoop - Designer Whey French Vanilla Protein Powder

1 cup - Red Raspberries

1 - banana

6 - ice cubes

Procedure:

Put all ingredients into a blender, whirl (blend until smooth) and Enjoy!!!

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 3 pts.

7 Ways to Pass Your Weight Loss Plateau

2012-01-24T14:24:00.002-05:00

What to do when you hit the weight loss wall, and how to get over it.

One of the most common frustrations in weight loss is when all progress halts despite the fact that you are diligently following your plan. Such plateaus are predictable and explainable. Basal metabolic rate (BMR)—the energy required to keep the heart pumping, lungs expanding, kidneys filtering, and all other vital bodily functions going when the body is at rest—accounts for 60 to 70 percent of the calories you burn and depends, for the most part, on body mass. When weight loss occurs, body mass goes down; so does BMR.

Consider an example: You weigh 162 pounds and eat 1,900 calories a day. To lose a pound a week, you've got to cut between 500 and 600 calories per day. So you restrict yourself to 1,400 calories, and the weight comes off. But suddenly, after week six, the scale refuses to budge. This is because with the weight loss, your BMR has also declined (say, from 0.95 to 0.75 calories per minute), and where your body used to burn 1,368 calories per day, now it's using only 1,080. At this weight, there's also less of you to move around, so you burn fewer calories working out and waste fewer calories as heat. All in all, your daily calorie expenditure is now pretty close to what you're taking in. You've hit a new—and probably very annoying—equilibrium. Now that you know why it happens, here's what to do:

1. Hang in there.
You may feel stuck, but you're probably still losing weight—just not enough to register on the scale. But even dropping a third of a pound per week means that in a year, you'll be down a whole 17 pounds.

2. Avoid fuzzy math.
It's common to overestimate calories burned and underestimate calories eaten. Look for places where calories may hide—dressings, spreads, sauces, croutons, and condiments. Are you tasting a lot while cooking? Finishing what the kids leave on their plates? Absentmindedly grabbing handfuls of nuts, chips, or candy? You might try keeping a detailed food diary. Remember that for each pound you want to lose, you need to cut at least 3,500 calories—and if you don't want to eat less, to lose the same pound you'll have to add about ten extra hours of brisk walking or the equivalent.

3. Put up some resistance.
Increasing physical activity is particularly useful for moving beyond a plateau because exercise both uses calories and builds muscle. The more muscle you have, the higher your BMR, which is why working out with light weights or doing some kind of resistance training can be especially helpful. In fact, increasing your muscle mass as you lose body fat can compensate for the decline in BMR induced by weight loss.

4. Up your protein quotient.
There is some evidence that shifting fat and carbohydrate calories to protein calories may help preserve BMR during weight loss. But don't overdo it—20 percent of daily calories from protein is as high as you should go.

5. Shake it up.
Many fitness gurus claim that surprising your body with a change in diet, workout, or both can jostle you out of a weight loss rut. The science is pretty thin here, but the advice is reasonable because variety can keep you interested. Instead of constant dieting, you might try alternating calorie-cutting days, for example, with less-restrictive maintenance days. Switch to a new type of exercise. Alternate aerobic workouts with light weight training. A change may be just what you need to get the progress rolling again.

6. Recharge your drive:
If your motivation is flagging, write down all the reasons you originally wanted, and still want, to lose weight. Look at the list every day. Also let friends and family know what you're up to, and ask for their support.

7. Reconsider the skin you're in:
A plateau is an opportunity to reassess whether further weight loss is worth all the work it will take—and to reconsider whether you may, in truth, now be at a perfectly healthy weight and don't need to go any lower. If you do choose to stop where you are, turn your focus toward maintaining what you've achieved and keeping your body in good shape. Remember, eating well and being physically active are good for you. Do a little of both every day, and you will be a total success.

More Ways to Stay Healthy:

David L. Katz, MD, is a professor at Yale University School of Medicine and the author of The Way to Eat (Sourcebooks).

Printed from Oprah.com on Tuesday, January 24, 2012

7 Ways to Pass Your Weight Loss Plateau

Oprah.com | From the August 2003 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine

.

01/23/12

2012-01-24T14:01:00.002-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Monday, January 23, 2012

Morning

1 large banana(s)

1 item(s) ready-to-eat shredded wheat cereal

1 cup(s) Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze®

1 serving(s) Capella New York Cheesecake Flavor Drops

Subtotal

Midday

2 slice(s) Organic Ezekiel 4:9 Low Sodium Sprouted Grain Bread

1 serving(s) Lipton Instant Soup, Spring Vegetable

1 Tuna Salad Surprise Sandwich

Subtotal

Evening

1 serving(s) Birds Eye Corn, Super Sweet

1 pattie(s) cooked 80% lean ground beef

2 cup(s) tossed salad without dressing

2 tbl.- Wishbone 1000 Island Salad Dressing - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

1/8 serving(s) Blue Diamond Almondmilk, Vanilla, Unsweetened

1 serving(s) Marzetti Croutons, Large Cut, Cheese & Garlic

1 serving(s) French's Mustard, Honey

1/4 serving(s) Heinz Tomato Ketchup

2 tsp olive oil

Subtotal

Anytime

1 - Nature Valley Protein Bar (PBC) - Quick-added food - Quick-added food - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

2 large whole hard-boiled egg(s)

1 cup(s) cherries

1 serving(s) Weight Watchers Sorbet & Ice Cream Bars, Giant Wildberry & Orange

1 cup(s) fresh blueberries

1 serving(s) Nature Valley Granola Bars, Crunchy, Oats 'N Honey

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

BootCamp - Activity I created

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

© 2012 Weight Watchers International, Inc. © 2012 WeightWatchers.com, Inc. All rights reserved.
WEIGHT WATCHERS and PointsPlus® are the registered trademarks of Weight Watchers International, Inc. and are used under license by WeightWatchers.com, Inc.

01/22/12

2012-01-24T13:57:00.002-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Sunday, January 22, 2012

Morning

1 Strawberry Ricotta French Toast

Subtotal

Midday

1 serving(s) Jillian Michaels Whey Protein Va

1 cup(s) Hemp Milk Hemp Milk Vanilla

Capella Vanilla Cupcake Flavor Drops - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

1 large banana(s)

Subtotal

Evening

1 cup(s) cooked brussels sprouts

1 serving(s) Sesmark Sesame Thins, Original

1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 medium uncooked baby carrots

Subtotal

Anytime

1 cup(s) grapes

1 serving(s) Kraft Tomato Basil String Cheese

27 cracker(s) Crackers Cheez-it made with whole grain

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

No entries for activity.

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

01/21/12

2012-01-24T13:55:00.000-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Saturday, January 21, 2012

Morning

1 serving(s) Good Belly Probiotic Juice Drink, Mango Flavor

1 large whole hard-boiled egg(s)

1 item(s) ready-to-eat shredded wheat cereal

1 cup(s) Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze®

Maple syrup - Quick-added food - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

Subtotal

Midday

1 large banana(s)

1 serving(s) !Tam-x-ico's! Lo-Carb Wheat Tortilla

1/2 serving(s) Kroger Peanut Butter, Natural Crunchy

1 serving(s) Smucker's Spreadable Fruit, Apricot

1 slice(s) Organic Ezekiel 4:9 Low Sodium Sprouted Grain Bread

1 Tuna Salad Surprise Sandwich

Subtotal

Evening

2 slice(s) Organic Ezekiel 4:9 Low Sodium Sprouted Grain Bread

1 medium uncooked baby carrots

1 Tuna Salad Surprise Sandwich

Subtotal

Anytime

1 cup(s) fresh blueberries

1 serving(s) Sesmark Sesame Thins, Original

1 cup(s) grapes

1 serving(s) Weight Watchers Sorbet & Ice Cream Bars, Giant Wildberry & Orange

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

No entries for activity.

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

Whole Wheat Bagel Thins

2012-01-22T13:04:00.000-05:00

Turkey burger w/apricots, cranberries, baby carrots and whole grain rice

2012-01-22T13:00:00.000-05:00

BLT on Whole Wheat

2012-01-22T12:54:00.002-05:00

2012-01-22T12:51:00.002-05:00

Cup-a-Soup

2012-01-22T12:48:00.000-05:00

Tuna Salad Surprise on Whole Wheat

2012-01-22T12:44:00.000-05:00

Strawberry Ricotta French Toast

2012-01-22T12:39:00.002-05:00

Skipped Weigh In

2012-01-21T11:54:00.001-05:00

I had to skip my Weight Watchers Weigh In this morning, the roads are covered with ice. I stepped on my home scale and it showed a loss "Woo Hoo" however, I will wait until next Saturday to post my official WW numbers.

I'm relieved and excited to announce that using up my 49 extra weekly points and 28 out of 55 of my earned activity points this week had a positive effect!

01/20/12

2012-01-21T09:13:00.002-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Friday, January 20, 2012

Morning

1 - Nature Valley Protein Bar (PBC) - Quick-added food - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

1 cup(s) Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze®

6 item(s) egg white(s)

1 serving(s) Jillian Michaels Whey Protein Va

1 1/2 cup(s) strawberries

Subtotal

Midday

1 serving(s) Lipton Soup, Noodle, with Real Chicken Broth

1 serving(s) !Tam-x-ico's! Lo-Carb Wheat Tortilla

1/2 serving(s) Kroger Peanut Butter, Natural Crunchy

White Clover Honey - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

1 large banana(s)

Subtotal

Evening

1 serving(s) Marzetti Croutons, Large Cut, Cheese & Garlic

1 cup(s) Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze®

1 serving(s) Capella New York Cheesecake Flavor Drops

1 serving(s) Kroger Ricotta Cheese, Part Skim

4 oz Ribeye Steak

3/4 cup(s) frozen cut green beans

1 cup(s) cherries

Subtotal

Anytime

2 serving(s) Kroger Yogurt & Berries mini rice cakes

1 serving(s) Kraft Tomato Basil String Cheese

1 serving(s) Sesmark Sesame Thins, Original

1 serving(s) Simply Grapefruit Grapefruit Juice, Pulp Free, Original

1 cup(s) cherries

1 serving(s) Kashi Fruit & Grain Bars, Dark Chocolate Coconut

27 cracker(s) Crackers Cheez-it made with whole grain

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

BootCamp - Activity I created

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

01/19/12

2012-01-20T04:13:00.000-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Morning

1 serving(s) McCann's Irish Oatmeal, Steel Cut

1 large whole hard-boiled egg(s)

Maple syrup - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

Capella Vanilla Cupcake Flavor Drops - Quick-added food

Subtotal

Midday

1 cup(s) fresh tomato(es)

1 cup(s) romaine lettuce

3 slice(s) reduced-fat cooked crisp bacon

2 slice(s) Whole grains 100% whole wheat bread

Subtotal

Evening

1 serving(s) Gold Star Chili Chili, Original

1 serving(s) Barilla Spaghetti

1 serving(s) Kroger Red Beans

1/4 cup(s) 2% Milk Reduced Fat Natural Shredded Cheese Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese

1 bar(s) Giant orange sherbet & ice cream bar

Subtotal

Anytime

1 serving(s) Thomas' Bagel Thins, Pre-Sliced, 100% Whole Wheat

1 serving(s) Kroger Peanut Butter, Natural Crunchy

1 serving(s) Smucker's Spreadable Fruit, Apricot

Daily. Chef Pitted Plums - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

1 serving(s) Chobani Yogurt, Greek, Non-Fat, Black Cherry

1 medium uncooked baby carrots

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

No entries for activity.

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes
TÖM - Day 1 (Start)

01/18/12

2012-01-19T13:44:00.002-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Morning

1 serving(s) Food For Life Cereal, Almond

1/2 serving(s) Blue Diamond Almondmilk, Vanilla, Unsweetened

Nature Valley Protein Bar (PBC) - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

Subtotal

Midday

1 cup(s) grapes

1 serving(s) Special K Crackers, Multi-Grain

2 cup(s) tossed salad without dressing

1/8 serving(s) Blue Diamond Almondmilk, Vanilla, Unsweetened

2 tbl.- Wishbone 1000 Island Salad Dressing - Quick-added food

Subtotal

Evening

BBQ Porkchop - Quick-added food

1/2 cup(s) canned yellow corn

Subtotal

Anytime

2 large banana(s)

1 serving(s) Smucker's Spreadable Fruit, Apricot

1 serving(s) Kroger 100% Whole Wheat Tortillas

1/2 serving(s) Kroger Peanut Butter, Natural Crunchy

1 - Nature Valley Protein Bar (PBC) - Quick-added food - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

BootCamp - Activity I created

Max'd Out Fitness - Activity I created

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

01/17/12

2012-01-18T14:49:00.002-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Morning

1 serving(s) McCann's Irish Oatmeal, Steel Cut

1 cup(s) Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze®

White Clover Honey - Quick-added food

Maple syrup - Quick-added food

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 serving(s) Good Belly Probiotic Juice Drink, Blueberry Acai Flavor

Subtotal

Midday

3 oz cooked 99% fat-free ground turkey breast

1 serving(s) Ocean Spray Cranberries, Sweetened Dried, Snack Packs

1 serving(s) Smucker's Spreadable Fruit, Apricot

1 cup(s) cooked carrot(s)

1/4 cup(s) All natural brown and wild rice

Subtotal

Evening

Wishbone 1000 Island Salad Dressing - Quick-added food

2 cup(s) tossed salad without dressing

Daily. Chef Pitted Plums - Quick-added food

1 large whole hard-boiled egg(s)

1/2 cup(s) fat-free ricotta cheese

Subtotal

Anytime

Kashi Banana CC chewy bar - Quick-added food

27 cracker(s) Crackers Cheez-it made with whole grain

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

No entries for activity.

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

01/16/12

2012-01-18T14:45:00.000-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Monday, January 16, 2012

Morning

Nature Valley Protein Bar (PBC) - Quick-added food

Daily. Chef Pitted Plums - Quick-added food

Subtotal

Midday

1 serving(s) Mother's Toasted Wheat Germ

1 large banana(s)

1 cup(s) Iceberg lettuce

2 cup(s) fresh tomato(es)

Almond Breeze Almond Coconut Milk - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

3 slice(s) reduced-fat cooked crisp bacon

1 serving(s) Campbell's Soup, Condensed, Tomato

2 slice(s) Organic Ezekiel 4:9 Low Sodium Sprouted Grain Bread

Bee Pollen - Quick-added food

Subtotal

Evening

1 serving(s) Ocean Spray Cranberries, Sweetened Dried, Snack Packs

1 serving(s) Smucker's Spreadable Fruit, Apricot

3 oz cooked 99% fat-free ground turkey breast

1 medium uncooked baby carrots

1/4 cup(s) All natural brown and wild rice

Subtotal

Anytime

1 oz Classic hummus

1/2 medium English cucumber(s)

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

Max'd Out Fitness - Activity I created

BootCamp - Activity I created

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

01/15/12

2012-01-16T09:15:00.007-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Sunday, January 15, 2012

Morning

1 cup(s) cooked teff

1 cup(s) Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze®

1 serving(s) Simply Grapefruit Grapefruit Juice, Pulp Free, Original

1 cup(s) unsweetened canned pears

1 serving(s) Emerald Walnuts and Almonds, Natural.

Sunsweet PlumAmazins - Quick-added food

Subtotal

Midday

Celestial Raspberry Zinger Tea (decaf) - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

1 cup(s) pineapple

Frisch''s Ranch Salad Dressing - Quick-added food - Quick-added food

2 cup(s) tossed salad without dressing

1/4 large cantaloupe

Subtotal

Evening

1 serving(s) Weight Watchers Cheese Product, American Singles

1 serving(s) Campbell's Soup, Condensed, Tomato

1 serving(s) Special K Crackers, Multi-Grain

1 tsp olive oil

2 serving(s) Orowheat Bread, 100% Whole Wheat

Subtotal

Anytime

1 cup(s) cherries

1 cup(s) fresh blueberries

Daily Chef Pitted Plums - Quick-added food

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

No entries for activity.

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

Oh, I get a good feeling ...

2012-01-14T18:05:00.009-05:00

Red Hot Chili Peppers, INXS, Nickleback, Mellencamp, ...yep, this is how I roll! But, Rap? Nah, never seemed to connect much to rap songs, but this one, ...totally had me move'n and groove'n in my chair the first time I heard it. (Phew, good thing Karen didn't have her video camera in hand while watching me, it definately would have been a FaceBook/YouTube shameless moment!)

Give it a listen, I think you will like it too!

01/14/12

2012-01-14T14:30:00.001-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Saturday, January 14, 2012

Morning

1 serving(s) Kashi Protein & Fiber Bar, Peanut Butter & Chocolate

1/4 cup(s) Steel cut oats

PB2 (powered peanut butter) - Quick-added food

Almond Breeze Almond Coconut Milk - Quick-added food

1 large banana(s)

Subtotal

Midday

1 serving(s) Wheat Thins Crackers, Garden Vegetable

1 serving(s) Muscle Milk Nutritional Shake, Vanilla Creme

Fresh Fruit Salad

Subtotal

Evening

3 oz cooked 99% fat-free ground turkey breast

1 serving(s) Ocean Spray Cranberries, Sweetened Dried, Snack Packs

3/4 cup(s) frozen cut green beans

1 serving(s) Smucker's Spreadable Fruit, Apricot

2 cup(s) Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze®

Subtotal

Anytime

1 serving(s) Weight Watchers Yogurt, Nonfat, Apple Pie A La Mode

1 pouch(es) Granola Thins Crispy Squares Peanut butter

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

No entries for activity.

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

A look back at my Progress ...

2012-01-14T11:19:00.004-05:00

01-13-12

2012-01-13T20:17:00.002-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Friday, January 13, 2012

Morning

1 large banana(s)

1 serving(s) Kashi Fruit & Grain Bars, Dark Chocolate Coconut

3 medium fresh apricot(s)

3 item(s) egg white(s)

1 serving(s) Weight Watchers Cheese Product, Pasteurized Process, Original Swiss Flavored

1 serving(s) Oscar Mayer Ham, Honey, Shaved, Family Size

1 serving(s) Vlasic Stackers, Kosher Dill

Subtotal

Midday

Celestial Country Peach Passion Tea (decaf) - Quick-added food

1 serving(s) Athenos Pita Chips, Baked, Whole Wheat

1 serving(s) Health Valley Soup, Tomato, No Salt Added

1/2 cup(s) Low-Fat 2% Milkfat Small Curd Cottage Cheese

Subtotal

Evening

Mashed Cauliflower - Quick-added food

3/4 cup(s) frozen cut green beans

1 cup(s) Iceberg lettuce

John Morrell diced ham - Quick-added food

1 serving(s) New York Croutons, Caesar

Frisch's Ranch Salad Dressing - Quick-added food

Celestial Raspberry Zinger Tea (decaf) - Quick-added food

3 tsp Craisins Craisins® original sweetened dried cranberries

Subtotal

Anytime

1 serving(s) Sesmark Sesame Thins, Original

18 large olive(s)

1 serving(s) Weight Watchers Cheese Product, Pasteurized Process, Original Swiss Flavored

1 cup(s) cherries

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

60 min Circuit training, including some aerobic movement with minimal rest, general

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

2012-01-13T18:25:00.002-05:00

LOVE TJ's Lemon Pepper Seasoning

2012-01-13T18:22:00.002-05:00

Ingredients:

Black Peppercorns, Sea Salt, Onion, Lemon Rind, Garlic, Lemon Oil, Citric Acid.

Ah, ...apricots!

2012-01-13T18:20:00.000-05:00

2012-01-13T18:15:00.002-05:00

2012-01-13T18:08:00.002-05:00

01-12-12

2012-01-13T04:02:00.005-05:00

PointsPlus® Tracker entries

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Morning

Blueberry French Toast Scramble - Quick-added food

1 cup(s) Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze®

1 tsp olive oil

Subtotal

Midday

1 serving(s) Thomas' Bagel Thins, Everything

1 serving(s) Vlasic Stackers, Kosher Dill

1 serving(s) Sesmark Sesame Thins, Original

1 serving(s) Oscar Mayer Delifresh Honey Smoked Turkey breast

Subtotal

Evening

1 serving(s) Johnsonville Sausage, Chicken, 3 Cheese Italian Style

Celestial Black Cherry Tea (decaf) - Quick-added food

1 cup(s) cooked spaghetti squash

1 cup(s) cooked zucchini

Orange-Smashed Sweet Potato

Subtotal

Anytime

1 medium uncooked baby carrots

1 large banana(s)

1 serving(s) Chobani Yogurt, Greek, Non-Fat, Black Cherry

Subtotal

Food PointsPlus values total used

Food PointsPlus values remaining

Activity

No entries for activity.

Activity PointsPlus values earned

Check off these important items daily:

Liquids	Milk & Milk Products
Fruit & vegetables	Multivitamin/Mineral
Healthy Oil	Activity

Notes

Blueberry French Toast Scramble

2012-01-12T14:27:00.008-05:00

Ingredients:

1 tsp. olive oil

2 slices (Ezekiel) Cinnamon Raisin Bread

1 whole egg

1 tbl. almond milk

1/4 tsp. maple extract

1/4 tsp. vanilla bean

3/4 cup blueberries

1 tbl. water

1 pkt. True Lemon

cinnamon

Procedure:

1.) Spray skillet with olive oil, then place bread (broken into pieces) into pan.

2.) In a small bowl, whisk together egg, almond milk, maple extract and vanilla beans. Pour liquid over bread and allow to soak for about 5 minutes.

3.) Meanwhile: In a small saucepan combine 1/2 cup blueberries, water and lemon packet. Using a meat mallot, press down on the blueberries causing them to break apart. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, then set aside.

4.) Cook on Medium heat until golden brown on both sides.

5.) Place french toast on a plate, top with blueberry sauce and the remaining 1/4 cup of blueberries.

Eat & Enjoy!!!

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 7 pts.
Recipe includes 1 healthy fat (olive oil) for 1 pt.

PB2

2012-01-12T14:04:00.002-05:00

I LOVE my Nathan!

2012-01-12T14:02:00.000-05:00

Ah, ...so true!

2012-01-12T13:59:00.002-05:00

Crunchy Chili-Lime ChickPeas

2012-01-11T14:45:00.009-05:00

Ingredients:

16 oz. can ChickPeas (garbanzo beans)

1 tsp. olive oil

1 tsp. chili powder

1 tsp. cumin

1 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. cilantro
2 pkt. True Lime

Procedure:

1.) Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2.) Drain and rinse chickpeas.

3.) In a small bowl add chickpeas and seasonings, stir to combine.

4.) Pour onto baking sheet, pop into oven.

5.) Stir every 15 minutes.

6.) Bake for 45 minutes or until peas become crisp.

Eat & Enjoy!!!

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 3 pts. (1/2 cup)

2012-01-11T14:13:00.001-05:00

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 3 pts.

2012-01-11T14:10:00.000-05:00

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 3 pts. (1/2 cup)

Zero points!

2012-01-10T14:12:00.000-05:00

Spaghetti Squash w/Zucchini in Tomato Sauce

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 0 pts.

Spaghetti Squash

2012-01-10T14:08:00.000-05:00

Zucchini in Tomato Sauce

2012-01-10T14:02:00.004-05:00

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 0 pts. (1/2 cup)

A teaspoon of sugar ...

2012-01-06T04:11:00.000-05:00

To calculate the number of teaspoons of sugar in a serving of food, check the food label then divide the grams of sugar listed by 4 to get the number of teaspoons sugar.

Don't Worry

2012-01-05T06:14:00.005-05:00

There are many things that are not within our control, ...it's natural for us to "worry" about them. But what does worry do for us? Nothing. Yes, nothing period. It makes you feel bad, sick, run down, helpless and it doesn't change the outcome.

So, don't worry, ...
instead focus on the things in your life that you can control. : )

Happy New Year!!!

2012-01-01T14:31:00.001-05:00

Reflections of 2011

2011-12-31T15:08:00.004-05:00

It's the last day of December, ...wow! Really, just wow.

This year has brought about many positive changes towards gaining better health and fitness:

I joined Weight Watchers
I re-joined BootCamp
I joined Max'd Out Fitness
I gave up Diet Soda
I fell back in love with WATER
I gave up Caffeine
I RAN my 1st 5K Race
I started Eating Clean

Fast Food, Diet Soda, and Sugar

2011-12-31T14:34:00.010-05:00

I said goodbye to fast food and diet soda in 2011. I tried to say goodbye to sugar but it managed to sweet-talk it's way into staying in my life.

I am proud of my attempts, ...from June until October I did not eat any foods with added sugar of any kind. Yes, I actually went five whole months, incredible progress for me.

Then, on October 10th, while enjoying dinner with my handsome magician I indulged in one bite of Friday's Peanut Butter pie (honestly, I would have eaten the whole thing but was full). Then, I said goodbye again for another two months before I found myself saying hello to my homemade Orange Sweet Pecan Roll on Christmas morning.

That was just enough to get the addiction going again. It's sad but true, ...the week between Christmas and New Year's I ate a small bite here and another bite there of Kenny's sweetened treats (strawberry yogurt ice-cream, pancakes with maple syrup and a chocolate ho-ho). It should of stopped there but didn't. Nutcracker Ball Cookies. Yes, just three little words, but they have such a festive ring, don't they?

I made a batch on Wednesday evening and by Thursday evening, they were gone. GONE! Yes, I ate all 18 of those little nutty balls. I continued to eat clean, so I wasn't hungry. Yet, I couldn't stop eating them, all of them ...until they were gone. Yes, they were tasty, but it was more than that. I wasn't eating, I was "feeding" an addiction to sugar. Oh, and did I mention that they are 3 pts. each? Ugghh, I did the math, that's 54 (frick'en) pts.!!! Geeze Louise!!!

So (again) I am reminded that I have an addiction to sugar. As sweet as it is (and it always is) I know that the time has come again for me to say goodbye to sugar.

Cheers!!! (my glass of water is held high) ...Here's to a sweet year in 2012 without any sugar!!!

If I could only tweak my cookie into a turkey burger

2011-12-29T19:59:00.005-05:00

I've been really good about avoiding sweet foods, ...until now. I stumbled upon Glo's site and what did I see, ...right there looking back at me was her Nutcracker Ball Cookies. Not sure what exactly, but something about this recipe called my name.

I made a batch (18 cookies to be exact) and can't stop eating them! If only I could "tweak" the cookie and turn it into a turkey burger ...I'd be a happy, happy girl!!!

UPDATE: The Recipe Builder at Weight Watchers calculates these little babies at 3 pts. per cookie, ..yeah, I think I'll have another one!

2nd UPDATE: WARNING!!! They are actually 54 pts. (well, that is if you eat the entire batch by yourself!)

Flash cook or freeze!

2011-12-29T14:35:00.000-05:00

Quick and Easy Chicken Breasts

Smart "Tart" Snacking!

2011-12-29T14:16:00.004-05:00

Granny Smith Apple slices w/1 tbl. Peanut Butter

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 3 pts.

Goal Setting

2011-12-28T14:59:00.002-05:00

"SMART Goals"

"S - They should be SPECIFIC.

Make them detailed and unambiguous so that you know exactly what you are trying to achieve.

M – They should be MEASURABLE.

There needs to be a means in which you can measure progress and know that you have achieved your goal.

A – They should be ATTAINABLE.

A goal needs to be something that you know that you can achieve. You definitely don’t want it to be too easy, but you also don’t want it to be out of your reach.

R – Goals need to be REALISTIC.

Make sure that you give yourself enough time to achieve the goal and that it suits your interests, needs, and abilities.

T – Make sure a goal is bound by TIME.

Set deadlines & timelines for goals to help keep you on track & focused towards the finish line." (ErinLea)

Lets' ...do it!!!

2011-12-27T14:20:00.003-05:00

"The difference between who we want to be and who we are ...

is what we do!" (CoastGirl)

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T02:05:00.004-05:00

Original graphics by Betsy at Growlibear Graphics

Placed 2nd!

2011-12-20T12:26:00.003-05:00

This is the last race of the year, ...7 5K's and a 1/2 Marathon since May 2011!

I am so excited I came in 2nd place (in my division) and was awarded my first trophy!!!

Noel 5K Race

2011-12-20T12:24:00.000-05:00

December 17, 2011

Pink & Black ...yes, Just Do It!!!

2011-12-09T17:35:00.002-05:00

Pink & Black, ...my favorite "go to" colors!!!

Progress Photos

2011-12-09T17:28:00.007-05:00

These were taken on 11-19-2011.
Weight: 156.4 lbs.

(Front View)

(Back View)

Lip Smacking Snacks

2011-12-09T15:29:00.002-05:00

Sliced Braeburn Apple w/2 tbl. Almond Butter

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 5 pts.

Fresh to Frozen

2011-12-09T15:24:00.001-05:00

Preparing my fresh veggies for the deep freezer.

These will be grilled, roasted or sauteed, ...

so quick and easy to just grab them and throw them into a recipe!

EC Cooler

2011-12-09T15:19:00.002-05:00

Greek Yogurt Veggie Dip - Salsa Cilantro

2011-12-09T14:52:00.002-05:00

This is sooooo good!

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 2 pts. per serving (2 tbl.)
ECD = 1g sugar per serving (I know), however, it provides 200mg of Omega 3 per serving.

Whole Wheat Tortillas

2011-12-09T14:46:00.000-05:00

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 1 pt.

Organic RiceMilk (Unsweetened)

2011-12-09T14:42:00.002-05:00

Good Belly Probiotic Juice: Mango

2011-12-09T14:38:00.003-05:00

Another year, fast approaching, ...

2011-12-09T13:55:00.003-05:00

Weigh In: 12-13-2010

"You don't know where you’re going ...until you know where you've been."

Another year is fast approaching, ...and I'm so happy to be on my way! It's important to look back at where you have been so that you will appreciate where you are. When I weighed 185.6 lbs., I wasn't focused on how I looked or felt, ...honestly, I was just focused on food. Mostly, fast food.

Today, I am still focused on food, but in a different way. I have learned that "food is fuel" and that it's more important to choose foods that will nourish your body not just tickle your tastebuds.

Green Tropic Protein Shake

2011-12-09T07:26:00.010-05:00

This is a little high in points (for Weight Watcher followers) but it really packs a punch in nutrition; it's filled with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich fruits/veggies so it's worth it! ; )

Ingredients:

1 cup - Rice Milk

2 scoops - Plant Protein Powder

1 tsp. - Orange Extract

8 oz. - Mango (Good Belly Juice)

1 cup - Baby Spinach

1 tbl. - Pina Colada Fish Oil (Barleans or The Vitamin Shoppe)

6 - ice cubes

Procedure:

Put all ingredients into a blender, whirl (blend until smooth) and Enjoy!!!

Substitutes:

Use Almond or Soy milk instead of Rice milk. (point value may change)
Use Vanilla Protein Powder instead of Plant Protein Powder. (point value may change)

Additional Information:

Weight Watchers Points Plus = 8 pts.

This is how you remind me of who I am! : )

2011-12-08T22:49:00.004-05:00

60:24 = 1 hour, 24 seconds Interval Training

5:03 = 5.03 miles

800 = 800 calories burned

Run 2 miles for 20 minutes

Walk/Run Intervals: Walk 4mph / Run 8mph (1 minute each) for 40:24 minutes

Ham & Veggie Frittata

2011-12-08T15:42:00.005-05:00

Ingredients:

1 cup - egg whites

2 - eggs (whole)

1/2 cup - pepper mix (red, yellow, orange)

1/2 cup onions (diced)

2 tbl. - cilantro

15 turns - lemon pepper seasoning (Trader Joe's)

1/2 cup - ham (diced)

Procedure:

1.) Mix all ingredients together, scoop into greased muffin tin.

2.) Bake at 350* for 45 minutes.

3.) Allow to cool, eat immediately or refrigerate.

Eat & Enjoy!

NOTE: Makes 10 large or 12 medium muffins.

Rise and Shine

2011-12-08T15:11:00.003-05:00

Egg white omelette w/sweet peppers.
Sides: blueberries, ezekial toast w/apple butter.

So yummy!

2011-12-06T15:54:00.002-05:00

Grilled baja chicken w/grilled peaches, juice sweetened cranberries and cilantro. Sides: steamed broccoli, baked then mashed sweet potato.

Week 4 of 8 Week Challenge!

2011-12-05T04:12:00.000-05:00

Today is Day 28 of my Max'd Out 8 Week Challenge!

Week 1 Rules:
30 minutes of Cardio 3 x per week in addition to 40 minutes of Max'd Out.
64 ounces of water daily
No Fast Food
+
Week 2 Rules:
2 Veggies per day (frozen/raw - no butter, cream or sauce.)
+
Week 3 Rules:
Brown bag (2 snacks & 1 lunch) 3 days per week. (Write down what you eat in your logbook and only eat what's "in the bag.")
+
Week 4 Rules:
30-40 minutes of Interval Training 1 x per week in addition to 40 minutes of Max'd Out.

Why does exercise make me gain weight?

2011-12-03T21:30:00.002-05:00

You have started working out, but the number on the scale is going up instead of down. It could be that you are building muscle, which weighs more than fat, but it may also be that you are not burning off more calories than you consume. Diet and exercise should go hand in hand to promote weight loss. Discuss your weight concerns with a health-care provider and ask him for weight-loss strategies.

Muscle Vs. Fat

If you regularly perform strength-training workouts, such as lifting weights, your muscles are going to grow. The standard recommendation for strength-training is two sessions per week, but if you are doing more than this or lifting heavy weights, you could be contributing to your weight gain. However, even if the number on the scale goes up, your body will look more toned and fit, and you will improve your health. Muscle tissue weighs more than fatty tissue does, and keeping an eye on your body fat percentage, as well as your overall weight, is a better indicator of your fitness level than weight alone.

Credit: http://www.livestrong.com/article/379300-why-does-exercise-make-me-gain-weight/#ixzz1fWrnX0FY

Remember - the scale is just a tool!

2011-12-03T21:25:00.001-05:00

Weight Watchers Meeting:

Today's "weigh in" showed a gain of 2.2 lbs., ...I handled it with grace. Why? Because I know that the scale doesn't define how I look or feel, it's just another "tool" for me to track my progress.

As I always do, I look back at my week to see what worked and what didn't. This week was a really good week, ...I ate clean ALL WEEK long. I increased the duration and the intensity of my work outs, and (drumroll) I was able to get into another (size 8) skinny jeans.

So, for me it was a very successful week, ...I am moving forward, step by step in the right direction.

2011-12-03T21:02:00.003-05:00

Baked pork chops with granny smith apples and sweet vidalia onions.

Sides: fresh steamed carrots and whole wheat couscous.

Gotta Have Gadgets!!!

2011-12-03T07:13:00.001-05:00

Yo Baby!!!

Quick Fix Lunch!

2011-12-03T07:11:00.000-05:00

Spice n things up, ...TJoe's Vegetarian Bowl!

On the Menu ...

2011-12-03T06:52:00.000-05:00

Grilled chicken topped with fresh salsa, brown & wild rice, steamed green beans, ...yum, yum!!! : )

Week 3 of 8 Week Challenge!

2011-12-03T06:30:00.003-05:00

Today is Day 21 of my Max'd Out 8 Week Challenge!

Week 1 Rules:
30 minutes of Cardio 3 x per week in addition to 40 minutes of Max'd Out.
64 ounces of water daily
No Fast Food
+
Week 2 Rules:
2 Veggies per day (frozen/raw - no butter, cream or sauce.)
+
Week 3 Rules:
Brown bag (2 snacks & 1 lunch) 3 days per week. (Write down what you eat in your logbook and only eat what's "in the bag.")

Weight Tracker

2011-11-29T20:23:00.000-05:00

It's what's for lunch today!

2011-11-29T14:57:00.002-05:00

(Just click on the photo above for a mouth-watering view ; )

Grilled chicken topped with grilled peppers, garlic, grilled peaches, avocado and cilantro. Sides: Grilled asparagus and Trader Joes Harvest Grains blend.

Week 2 of 8 Week Challenge!

2011-11-20T13:25:00.005-05:00

Today is Day 7 of my Max'd Out 8 Week Challenge!

Week 1 Rules:
30 minutes of Cardio 3 x per week in addition to 40 minutes of Max'd Out.
64 ounces of water daily
No Fast Food
+
Week 2 Rules:
2 Veggies per day (frozen/raw - no butter, cream or sauce.)

Hmmm, ...wondering if Lisa follows the EC diet?

Saturday Weigh In

2011-11-19T10:10:00.005-05:00

Just got home from my Weight Watchers meeting, ...I was down 1.8 lbs, my current weight is now 156.4 lbs. Total weight lost since June is now 22.8 lbs. and 16 inches.

Karen (my fearless Weight Watchers Leader) talked to me about starting a career with Weight Watchers. It's funny, I revealed to her that in the beginning I joked with my friends/family that one day when I reached goal that I would go to work for Weight Watchers. I wasn't expecting the opportunity to arrive so soon, ...I'm still so unsure of my Lifetime Goal weight number.

The Weight Watchers chart shows 146 lbs. as the high range for members who are 5'4" (I'm actually 5"3 &1/4" but Weight Watchers rounds up so I now fall into the 5'4" category). I like reaching for 146 lbs., loosing another 10 lbs. feels so achievable to me.

Okay, since, I have a few more weeks to make that happen, I'm going to research what working for Weight Watchers entails to help me decide if this is the direction I'm wanting to go when I reach my next weight loss goal.

Hummus, ...my new GO-to Snack food!

2011-11-18T07:14:00.002-05:00

Now that I'm eating clean, I'm giving up my old favorite snacks and am seeking out new foods to try. This week I have discovered that I like Hummus. I bought a box of single servings at SAM's Club and really, really like it. The brand is: Sabra Classic Hummus.

I have been eating it with cucumbers and whole wheat pita chips, ...yum, YUM!!!

I have some cookbooks and magazines that feature hummus recipes, thinking next week I will be giving these a try as well! ; )

Wall Sits, ...harder than it looks!

2011-11-16T15:16:00.002-05:00

I'm so excited, ...I have a new record for the Wall Sit!

13:06 (13 minutes - 6 seconds)

Although Jillian wasn't standing on my legs, they felt like someone was so I thought I'd share this photo of another proud moment of doing wall sits!

Simply Apple Protein Shake

2011-11-15T15:22:00.004-05:00

Ingredients:

2/3 cup Egg Whites

8 oz. Simply Apple Juice

1 banana

1 tbl. bee pollen

2 tbl. wheat germ

2 tbl. golden flaxseed (ground)

12 ice cubes

Procedure:

Put all ingredients into a blender, whirl (blend until smooth) and Enjoy!!!

8 Week Challenge

2011-11-14T21:55:00.002-05:00

Today is Day 1 of my Max'd Out 8 Week Challenge!

Week 1 Rules:
30 minutes of Cardio 3 x per week in addition to 40 minutes of Max'd Out.
64 ounces of water daily
No Fast Food

I'll post updates on my progress, ...I am definately in the Game!

Oh, ...you know, I got this!!!

Change is GOOD!

2011-11-12T14:51:00.000-05:00

I love the way my body is changing, it's incredible what eating healthy foods and exercise can do! I weighed in today and I am down 1 lb., yay, ...total weight loss since June 18, 2011 is now 21 lbs. and 16 inches.

It is funny how now weighing in at 158 lbs. I am wearing size 8 jeans and before when I wore them I weighed 130 lbs. It really proves that the scale is JUST a tool to measure progress and should not be used to define how you look and feel. Let your clothes do that for you! ; )

28 Days and still Counting!

2011-11-08T20:39:00.000-05:00

I completed the 28 day Eat Clean Challenge on November 7th. I started my journey with the ECD weighing 164.8 and now I am at 158.2. Total weight loss during this period was 6.4 lbs.

It's great to loose weight, but even better to be putting my efforts on eating healthy foods instead of obsessing about the numbers on the scale. I am so happy to have discocvered the Eat Clean lifestyle. It's so easy to incorporate it into my Weight Watchers program, ...just love that!

And, a huge part of me loves that it provides a bit of comfort since it has similarities to the basic principals of Somersizing! ; )

29 Years @ Zbox

2011-11-06T18:37:00.000-05:00

Kenny and I attended the 25 Year Club Annual Dinner at Summit Hills County Club in Kentucky.

It's fun to dress up and every year I look forward to buying something new for us to wear. This year I decided on a little black/red dress and was so excited when I discovered that I am now in a size 8!!!

Steel Cut Oatmeal

2011-10-27T15:02:00.000-04:00