I have so much to write about! Look out Tuesday...Here I come!
Funny Random Thought:
Why is the school zone 20mph? That seems like the optimal cruising speed for pedophiles...
Perfectly Inspirational Quote:
"The best way to predict the future is to create it." ~Unknown
Thank you so much for helping me get through week fou; only 48 more to go!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Friday, September 18, 2009
day 26: update
I haven't forgotten about you. As a matter of fact, I think about you all the time!
Today I am on day four of Atkins Induction Phase. If you have no idea what I mean by that, that is perfectly fine. If you are more than 50 pounds overweight; I can almost guarantee that you know what I mean by that. See, after a full weekend of finding out that I CAN drink like I used to (10 year reunion) and finding out that I WOULD LOVE to eat like I used to (mini vacation = a little cheating), I decided I needed a 'detox' period. Carbohydrates for me, are a form of addiction. After I have some carbs, my body needs a week or usually two of no carbs before the cravings (and the cold sweats, hehe) go away and I barely miss them.
The way that induction works? I lower my carb intake to about 20 grams per day; eating mostly green veggies, proteins, eggs and cheese. After two weeks I slowly start to work in other things; nuts, higher carb content veggies and berries. The first couple of days of induction are a bit difficult, but I soon start to realize the benefits and feel the results. After only one day, no heartburn...which while eating carbs is a daily occurrence. Can anyone say, a bottle of tums every two weeks? Yuck. It's even easier to get out of bed in the morning; it seems like (for me) carbs have a tendency to weigh me down, make me tired and cause me to burn out several times throughout the day. Cutting them out gives me immediate results. Plus the weight keeps on coming off.
I'm not saying that this works for everyone, and I will keep saying that, but, in my personal experience, I've had good results. Gradually I can start adding in new items to eat, until I've reached a 'maintaining' point. BUT, I'm still not completely satisfied with my results so 'maintaining' isn't something I'm quite ready for. It is, however, reassuring to know that that point of maintaining exists. It's real! It's really really real! Sooooo, anytime I reach a plateau with the weight, I take it back to induction. If this sounds like something that you think might work for you and if you think you might want some more specifics, because this is, by no means, a technical explanation of Atkins and the way it works; I highly recommend checking out the Atkins website. While you are there, click on Success Stories. It's motivation at it's finest. Before and afters? I can't get enough of them!
One of my biggest struggles with my blog is coming up with a daily topic. I've started jotting notes down on my phone when things come to me, but your input and your questions...They are so so helpful.
And so I ask you, “What do you hate more than anything about trying to lose weight? Let's quite with this 'it's so amazing', 'it seems to be so easy' crap and get down to the nitty gritty!”
Today I am on day four of Atkins Induction Phase. If you have no idea what I mean by that, that is perfectly fine. If you are more than 50 pounds overweight; I can almost guarantee that you know what I mean by that. See, after a full weekend of finding out that I CAN drink like I used to (10 year reunion) and finding out that I WOULD LOVE to eat like I used to (mini vacation = a little cheating), I decided I needed a 'detox' period. Carbohydrates for me, are a form of addiction. After I have some carbs, my body needs a week or usually two of no carbs before the cravings (and the cold sweats, hehe) go away and I barely miss them.
The way that induction works? I lower my carb intake to about 20 grams per day; eating mostly green veggies, proteins, eggs and cheese. After two weeks I slowly start to work in other things; nuts, higher carb content veggies and berries. The first couple of days of induction are a bit difficult, but I soon start to realize the benefits and feel the results. After only one day, no heartburn...which while eating carbs is a daily occurrence. Can anyone say, a bottle of tums every two weeks? Yuck. It's even easier to get out of bed in the morning; it seems like (for me) carbs have a tendency to weigh me down, make me tired and cause me to burn out several times throughout the day. Cutting them out gives me immediate results. Plus the weight keeps on coming off.
I'm not saying that this works for everyone, and I will keep saying that, but, in my personal experience, I've had good results. Gradually I can start adding in new items to eat, until I've reached a 'maintaining' point. BUT, I'm still not completely satisfied with my results so 'maintaining' isn't something I'm quite ready for. It is, however, reassuring to know that that point of maintaining exists. It's real! It's really really real! Sooooo, anytime I reach a plateau with the weight, I take it back to induction. If this sounds like something that you think might work for you and if you think you might want some more specifics, because this is, by no means, a technical explanation of Atkins and the way it works; I highly recommend checking out the Atkins website. While you are there, click on Success Stories. It's motivation at it's finest. Before and afters? I can't get enough of them!
One of my biggest struggles with my blog is coming up with a daily topic. I've started jotting notes down on my phone when things come to me, but your input and your questions...They are so so helpful.
And so I ask you, “What do you hate more than anything about trying to lose weight? Let's quite with this 'it's so amazing', 'it seems to be so easy' crap and get down to the nitty gritty!”
Monday, September 14, 2009
day 22: monday funday?
Last week was pure insanity. I am ecstatic that it is Monday...Ah, the delightful feeling of a new week; how I love thee.
But before I get on with my week as if last week never happened...
Now would be the perfect time to tell my Mother how much I love her. See with everything going on last week and worrying so much about how she was doing in dealing with the passing of my grandpa; I, idiot, completely forgot about her birthday! I spoke with her on her birthday...had an entire conversation, but the words, "Happy Birthday" never left my mouth, not once. What a crappy feeling that is. I love you Mom, so so SO much! HAPPY (belated) BIRTHDAY! I will make it up to you, and like I said...It won't happen again.
And now the fun part...
Funny Random Thought:I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? Dammit!),but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voicemail. What'd you do after I didn't answer? Drop the phone and runaway?
Perfectly Inspirational Quote:
"To live in hearts we leave behind, Is not to die." ~Thomas Campbell
Thank you so much for helping me get through week three; only 49 more to go!
Friday, September 11, 2009
day 19: argh!
Friday Update Day. Argh!
I’m normally not a huge fan of the word ‘argh’, but I think it appropriately portrays my feelings about this last week.
Let me start by saying…You know that feeling you have when you have a goal and you are so intent on accomplishing that goal and nothing in the world could stop you from it because you are ultra determined? OK…Now you know that feeling when that feeling goes away? Isn’t that the worst? Well, I can’t say that the determined feeling has gone away completely, this past week, but it has definitely been bumped off the tracks slightly. This is just a tiny peek into my week (peek into my week…that’s cute).
* Shopping and getting ready for my 10 year high school reunion. (It’s tonight…Milestone!)
* Avery’s first day of fourth grade.
*Evenings of getting homework done and trying to keep Avery on track.
*Laundry, cooking and cleaning (but never as much as I should be doing).
*Not a single blog…it’s been literally driving me nuts!
On top of the above, I received a phone call Tuesday morning that my 26 year old brother was in the hospital with heart complications. He has since been released from the hospital and seems to be recovering ok in the comfort of his own home, but he gave us all quite the scare. I should tell him…Next time, just hide in the closet for 20 minutes until you have that perfect opportunity to jump out, scream BOO and make us pee our pants. It’s so much more fun that way! Anthony…I love you!
You might not believe it, but all of this is just the tip of the iceberg. On Saturday night I received the very sad news that my grandpa Stan would have no more than 4 months left to live. He had a difficult battle with cancer and it wasn’t looking good. At that moment, I sat alone and had the most amazing cry ever. It was one of those kind of cry’s where you think of the good times and all of the memories; you cry, you laugh, you cry harder. You think about the fact that you should have visited more, you think about how your mom and the rest of your family is feeling…you cry even harder; until you just can’t cry anymore. Just thinking about that kind of cry, makes me teary eyed. Sadly, my grandpa Stan, didn’t make it 4 months; he passed away at home on September 9, 2009. In honor of my grandpa Stan, I have posted his obituary directly below this post and I’ve added just a couple of my own personal memories of my time with him. Grandpa Stan…I love you!
You get to a point, when being faced with so many different things, that you start to wonder, “Why is MY goal so important”, “I should be focusing on others, not just myself”, “Problems and issues that I’M having aren’t always the most important things in life”. You just have to remember that in order for you to, say, be there for your child who just started school, or your family who has lost a loved one, or a friend or relative with health issues, or to be there for your home…making sure it’s being kept up and that your family is happy and comfortable, or…the list goes on and on; YOU really are the most important element. YOU are the common link and in order for YOU to be at your best, you should feel your best and you should never ever feel guilty or afraid to accomplish your most desirable goals.
Do you like how I direct all of this towards YOU? Really, it is my intention is to reinforce this within MYSELF! At this point in my life, I am required to stay on course, stay consistent and show myself, my son, my friends and family that I CAN DO THIS…I CAN AND WILL FINISH WHAT I’VE STARTED.
And so I say to everyone who is letting life get in the way of your dreams, “Your dreams ARE your life, catch them while you can!”.
I’m normally not a huge fan of the word ‘argh’, but I think it appropriately portrays my feelings about this last week.
Let me start by saying…You know that feeling you have when you have a goal and you are so intent on accomplishing that goal and nothing in the world could stop you from it because you are ultra determined? OK…Now you know that feeling when that feeling goes away? Isn’t that the worst? Well, I can’t say that the determined feeling has gone away completely, this past week, but it has definitely been bumped off the tracks slightly. This is just a tiny peek into my week (peek into my week…that’s cute).
* Shopping and getting ready for my 10 year high school reunion. (It’s tonight…Milestone!)
* Avery’s first day of fourth grade.
*Evenings of getting homework done and trying to keep Avery on track.
*Laundry, cooking and cleaning (but never as much as I should be doing).
*Not a single blog…it’s been literally driving me nuts!
On top of the above, I received a phone call Tuesday morning that my 26 year old brother was in the hospital with heart complications. He has since been released from the hospital and seems to be recovering ok in the comfort of his own home, but he gave us all quite the scare. I should tell him…Next time, just hide in the closet for 20 minutes until you have that perfect opportunity to jump out, scream BOO and make us pee our pants. It’s so much more fun that way! Anthony…I love you!
You might not believe it, but all of this is just the tip of the iceberg. On Saturday night I received the very sad news that my grandpa Stan would have no more than 4 months left to live. He had a difficult battle with cancer and it wasn’t looking good. At that moment, I sat alone and had the most amazing cry ever. It was one of those kind of cry’s where you think of the good times and all of the memories; you cry, you laugh, you cry harder. You think about the fact that you should have visited more, you think about how your mom and the rest of your family is feeling…you cry even harder; until you just can’t cry anymore. Just thinking about that kind of cry, makes me teary eyed. Sadly, my grandpa Stan, didn’t make it 4 months; he passed away at home on September 9, 2009. In honor of my grandpa Stan, I have posted his obituary directly below this post and I’ve added just a couple of my own personal memories of my time with him. Grandpa Stan…I love you!
You get to a point, when being faced with so many different things, that you start to wonder, “Why is MY goal so important”, “I should be focusing on others, not just myself”, “Problems and issues that I’M having aren’t always the most important things in life”. You just have to remember that in order for you to, say, be there for your child who just started school, or your family who has lost a loved one, or a friend or relative with health issues, or to be there for your home…making sure it’s being kept up and that your family is happy and comfortable, or…the list goes on and on; YOU really are the most important element. YOU are the common link and in order for YOU to be at your best, you should feel your best and you should never ever feel guilty or afraid to accomplish your most desirable goals.
Do you like how I direct all of this towards YOU? Really, it is my intention is to reinforce this within MYSELF! At this point in my life, I am required to stay on course, stay consistent and show myself, my son, my friends and family that I CAN DO THIS…I CAN AND WILL FINISH WHAT I’VE STARTED.
And so I say to everyone who is letting life get in the way of your dreams, “Your dreams ARE your life, catch them while you can!”.
My Grandpa Stan
This obituary came from the Washington State Everett Herald Newspaper:
Stanley passed away at home on September 9, 2009 after battling cancer. He was born on February 2, 1931 to Charles and Florence Adams in Everett where he resided his entire life.
Stan is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Debbie. He also leaves behind his children, daughter, Kim (Adams) Wylde; sons, Shawn and Mitchell Adams; and step-children, Steve Strabeck (Jo) and Kathie Waters (Mike). Stan was blessed with six grandchildren, Shawndra, Anthony, David, Ryan, Kelsey and Bevan; as well as three great-grandchildren, Avery, Colin and Stella. The "outlaws" were especially close to Stan: mother-in-law, Elaine; sister-in-law, Tammy Sampson (nephews Drew and Adam); and brother-in-law, Mitch Davis (Eileen; niece, Shelly and nephew, Joey).
Stanley was preceded in death by Gramma Haley, Gramma Florence, Gramma Babe, and, recently, his father-in-law, Bill Davis.
Stan was the "best shake sawyer around" where he worked for Miller Shingle Co. For many of his last working years, he also owned and operated his own saw mill. Because working for a saw mill can be hazardous he did lose a finger. He proudly displayed it, especially to the children when he teased them saying "an alligator bit it off", and delighting in their wide-eyed expressions.
First and foremost, Stan was a family man and loved the family gatherings over the years: birthday parties, Thanksgiving, Christmas, 4th of July to name a few. He also loved the life of gambling until he wised up in his later years. Stan enjoyed a variety of careers early in his life such as mechanic in the Army at the age of 15 by way of an altered birth certificate, cab driver, commercial fisherman, and insurance sales.As per Stan's wishes, there will not be a service.
Donations in Stanley's name are appreciated and can be sent to Providence Hospice of Snohomish County.
A few of my fondest memories, of my time with my Grandpa Stan:
I remember as a little girl, staying over at my grandpas house on Christmas Eve. I remember feeling completely safe, comfortable and cozy; peeking out the window in the middle of the night expecting to see Santa and his sleigh fly by. When we woke up in the morning, we would have delicious food and open presents…one of my favorite days of the year as a little girl.
I remember the many many family get-togethers throughout the years and everyone devouring my grandpas AMAZING spaghetti. He would spend ALL day making his sauce. In our family, he was famous for his spaghetti; it was the best spaghetti you would ever taste!
Some little girls might have been frightened by a large, tattooed man with a missing finger, but he was MY grandpa! I was fascinated and intrigued by him. I would climb up in his lap and we would check out his tattoos together. I remember feeling very safe and protected in my grandpas lap.
Some years of my life were filled with my grandpa Stan and some years of my life were scattered with my grandpa Stan, but the memories that I have of him will stay with me forever. Grandpa Stan…You were an amazing man, I will love you and remember you always. Thank you for sharing with us, your time here on earth. Rest in Peace.
I remember the many many family get-togethers throughout the years and everyone devouring my grandpas AMAZING spaghetti. He would spend ALL day making his sauce. In our family, he was famous for his spaghetti; it was the best spaghetti you would ever taste!
Some little girls might have been frightened by a large, tattooed man with a missing finger, but he was MY grandpa! I was fascinated and intrigued by him. I would climb up in his lap and we would check out his tattoos together. I remember feeling very safe and protected in my grandpas lap.
Some years of my life were filled with my grandpa Stan and some years of my life were scattered with my grandpa Stan, but the memories that I have of him will stay with me forever. Grandpa Stan…You were an amazing man, I will love you and remember you always. Thank you for sharing with us, your time here on earth. Rest in Peace.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
day 14: sunday funday
So I miss ONE day of blogging and what happens?
Eggs and bacon for breakfast, that's what!
Time for some fun and encouragement to get me back on track for next week!
Funny Random Thought:
MapQuest really needs to start their directions on #5. Pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.
Perfectly Inspirational Quote:
"A man who wants something will find a way; a man who doesn't will find an excuse." -Stephan Dolley Jr.
Thank you so much for helping me get through week two; only 50 more to go!
Eggs and bacon for breakfast, that's what!
Time for some fun and encouragement to get me back on track for next week!
Funny Random Thought:
MapQuest really needs to start their directions on #5. Pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.
Perfectly Inspirational Quote:
"A man who wants something will find a way; a man who doesn't will find an excuse." -Stephan Dolley Jr.
Thank you so much for helping me get through week two; only 50 more to go!
Friday, September 4, 2009
day 12: update
I never realized the therapeutic effect this blog would have on me. It’s actually pretty incredible. Not only am I getting the opportunity to share thoughts and ideas with you; which is, by the way, one of my most favorite things to do in the whole wide world, BUT I’m also getting a chance to get some weight off of my chest (no pun intended). Getting some of my more intimate thoughts out there, intimate thoughts that have never before left my head…it feels marvelous…simply marvelous. I always feel like I have to say simply marvelous after I say marvelous. OK…now I think I’m just stalling. Let me just get to it already…
I, Shawndra, have made an agreement with myself to go ahead and just lay it ALL out on the table. As you may or may not know, today is Friday Update Day. It is the day that I have dedicated to ME and my progress; where I’m at with my plan, any struggles I’ve faced over the past week, things of that nature. Are you thinking ‘just get to it already, lady’?
Well, once a month from here on out I will be posting my actual weight and measurements. There is never a bad time to get some extra motivation SO, to start, I’m going to be using my weight and measurements from April 4, 2009 to compare and give you and myself, a clear idea of where I stand right now and how far I’ve already come. Here we go…
April 4, 2009
Age: 27
Height: 5’ 8”
Weight: 258.6 lbs (yes, I count the tenths! Don’t judge me.)
Hips: 51”
Waist: 42”
Chest: 48”
Legs: 28”
Arms: 18”
September 4, 2009
Age: 28
Height: 5’ 8”
Weight: 213.0 lbs
Hips: 45”
Waist: 36”
Chest: 43”
Legs: 25”
Arms: 15”
Total LOSS(-)/gain(+)
Age: +1
Height: no change
Weight: -45.6 lbs!!!
Hips: -6”!!!
Waist: -6”!!!
Chest: -5”!!!
Legs: -3”!!!
Arms: -3”!!!
This is exactly 5 months of progress! Trust me starting numbers are always daunting but after looking back, I’m so glad I had a record of where I was. I would HIGHLY recommend to you, to keep track of your measurements. The scale isn’t always the best way to track your progress. There are several reasons your weight may fluctuate but if you are measuring on top of that, you are getting a clear idea of how your body is transforming. And please don’t weigh yourself everyday…you will, most likely, be disappointed. Checking your weight weekly and measuring monthly gives your body time to adjust and change. If you write it down, you can visually see those changes; that’s motivation in itself. And never ever forget…IT WILL TAKE TIME, especially to lose weight the right way.
So since today is all about ME, I say to myself, self, “You are a strong, powerful, beautiful woman…Oh shoot, did you remember to turn off the iron? I joke, I joke. I kid, I kid. I don’t iron! Ha.”
I, Shawndra, have made an agreement with myself to go ahead and just lay it ALL out on the table. As you may or may not know, today is Friday Update Day. It is the day that I have dedicated to ME and my progress; where I’m at with my plan, any struggles I’ve faced over the past week, things of that nature. Are you thinking ‘just get to it already, lady’?
Well, once a month from here on out I will be posting my actual weight and measurements. There is never a bad time to get some extra motivation SO, to start, I’m going to be using my weight and measurements from April 4, 2009 to compare and give you and myself, a clear idea of where I stand right now and how far I’ve already come. Here we go…
April 4, 2009
Age: 27
Height: 5’ 8”
Weight: 258.6 lbs (yes, I count the tenths! Don’t judge me.)
Hips: 51”
Waist: 42”
Chest: 48”
Legs: 28”
Arms: 18”
September 4, 2009
Age: 28
Height: 5’ 8”
Weight: 213.0 lbs
Hips: 45”
Waist: 36”
Chest: 43”
Legs: 25”
Arms: 15”
Total LOSS(-)/gain(+)
Age: +1
Height: no change
Weight: -45.6 lbs!!!
Hips: -6”!!!
Waist: -6”!!!
Chest: -5”!!!
Legs: -3”!!!
Arms: -3”!!!
This is exactly 5 months of progress! Trust me starting numbers are always daunting but after looking back, I’m so glad I had a record of where I was. I would HIGHLY recommend to you, to keep track of your measurements. The scale isn’t always the best way to track your progress. There are several reasons your weight may fluctuate but if you are measuring on top of that, you are getting a clear idea of how your body is transforming. And please don’t weigh yourself everyday…you will, most likely, be disappointed. Checking your weight weekly and measuring monthly gives your body time to adjust and change. If you write it down, you can visually see those changes; that’s motivation in itself. And never ever forget…IT WILL TAKE TIME, especially to lose weight the right way.
So since today is all about ME, I say to myself, self, “You are a strong, powerful, beautiful woman…Oh shoot, did you remember to turn off the iron? I joke, I joke. I kid, I kid. I don’t iron! Ha.”
Thursday, September 3, 2009
day 11: the side dish
Today is all about side dishes and if you are thinking...BORING, then this will be perfect for you
I think that a lot of people get stuck when it comes to side dishes. I think they feel like they have to make a starch, whether it's potato, rice or pasta, they feel like dinner isn't complete without it. And more than likely, it happens to be a potato, rice or pasta out of a box. Gross. I know for me, it's not possible to lose weight consistently while eating a serving (or more, which usually happens) of potato, rice or pasta every day. I'm sure once I get into a state of 'maintaining' my weight, I can start adding these things back into my diet in small amounts. But until then, I am required to be creative and make my side dishes satisfying and delicious. Such as these...
Fresh and Easy
Roughly chop cucumbers and tomato, in a bowl; drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper (use sliced onion or even just onion powder for extra flavor), add chopped garlic and fresh basil. Done!
Quick and Flavorful
Add garlic to a little bit of olive oil in a saute pan on medium heat (this will infuse the oil giving it tons of garlic taste), add fresh chopped zucchini and/or summer squash, season with salt and pepper (again, use sliced onion or even just onion powder for extra flavor), saute until desired texture, add chopped fresh basil. Done!
If you can't tell...I love love love fresh basil! Oh, and the "use sliced onion or even just onion powder" thing works every time!
Cool and Refreshing
Add a little sour cream to chopped cucumber and red onion, season with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning salt, add lemon zest for extra ummm...zest. Done!
Crisp and Tasty
Chop up your favorite vegetables into large chunks (i.e. bell peppers, carrots, radishes, cucumber, zucchini, tomato, green onion, cabbage), arrange on and around a small bed of green leaf lettuce, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper. Done!
Oh...I like balsamic vinegar a whole bunch too! For lunches I mix a small container of olive oil, baslamic vinegar and salt and pepper. If you chop everything when you get home from the grocery store, or the night before, and place into plastic baggies...this is the easiest lunch in the world to grab!
All of these simple side dishes are GREAT for warmer weather and, as we start to move into the fall and winter seasons, I will work on coming up with new ideas to keep you comforted and fufilled.
So are you one of those people who feel like you have to have a starch with dinner? You know I gotta say something to you...”You are allowed to have ONE side dish, that ONE side dish is allowed to be vegetables and you are allowed to enjoy it! It's OK, I promise."
I think that a lot of people get stuck when it comes to side dishes. I think they feel like they have to make a starch, whether it's potato, rice or pasta, they feel like dinner isn't complete without it. And more than likely, it happens to be a potato, rice or pasta out of a box. Gross. I know for me, it's not possible to lose weight consistently while eating a serving (or more, which usually happens) of potato, rice or pasta every day. I'm sure once I get into a state of 'maintaining' my weight, I can start adding these things back into my diet in small amounts. But until then, I am required to be creative and make my side dishes satisfying and delicious. Such as these...
Fresh and Easy
Roughly chop cucumbers and tomato, in a bowl; drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper (use sliced onion or even just onion powder for extra flavor), add chopped garlic and fresh basil. Done!
Quick and Flavorful
Add garlic to a little bit of olive oil in a saute pan on medium heat (this will infuse the oil giving it tons of garlic taste), add fresh chopped zucchini and/or summer squash, season with salt and pepper (again, use sliced onion or even just onion powder for extra flavor), saute until desired texture, add chopped fresh basil. Done!
If you can't tell...I love love love fresh basil! Oh, and the "use sliced onion or even just onion powder" thing works every time!
Cool and Refreshing
Add a little sour cream to chopped cucumber and red onion, season with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning salt, add lemon zest for extra ummm...zest. Done!
Crisp and Tasty
Chop up your favorite vegetables into large chunks (i.e. bell peppers, carrots, radishes, cucumber, zucchini, tomato, green onion, cabbage), arrange on and around a small bed of green leaf lettuce, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper. Done!
Oh...I like balsamic vinegar a whole bunch too! For lunches I mix a small container of olive oil, baslamic vinegar and salt and pepper. If you chop everything when you get home from the grocery store, or the night before, and place into plastic baggies...this is the easiest lunch in the world to grab!
All of these simple side dishes are GREAT for warmer weather and, as we start to move into the fall and winter seasons, I will work on coming up with new ideas to keep you comforted and fufilled.
So are you one of those people who feel like you have to have a starch with dinner? You know I gotta say something to you...”You are allowed to have ONE side dish, that ONE side dish is allowed to be vegetables and you are allowed to enjoy it! It's OK, I promise."
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
day 10: why brain, why?
I touched briefly on substitutions in restaurants...you know, the typical substitute, a veggie or side salad for your starch. Alright, alright, I touched microscopically on substitutions in restaurants. It seems like everybody would most likely know that you can substitute a veggie for a starch, but it’s all about thinking of it! If you have easy tips in the back of your head, maybe they'll start popping up more and more.
I know that when I had felt especially down on myself because of my weight issues; maybe it was an unsuccessful trip to the mall or a belly full of fast food, I would seriously think about food constantly. I would think about how much I hated food, I would think about all of the things I was never going to eat again; it consumed me. But the moment I had food in front of me, as soon as I was eating delightfully awful food, every single thought that I had about food; all of the constant thoughts that would run through my head every second of the day...gone; gone as if they had never existed. That is a very difficult fight to fight with yourself. I cannot pinpoint the exact moment of change or why it happened (yet!), but writing about it in the past tense is SUPER AMAZING!
So in an attempt to brainwash you and completely change your way of thinking…Here are just a couple really easy, delicious substitutions:
Starbucks
I know so many people that say they will never give up their coffee, that’s perfectly fine, just change it up a little bit so that it works for you.
Watching your carbs?
Try a tall iced coffee with cream and sugar free vanilla. If you want something extra sweet, ask for whip cream. If you just can’t give up that latte, ask for a breve.
Watching your calories?
Go for a tall Americano with a splash of cream and sweet n low.
Breakfast
Go ahead and go for the omelet, but I would sub out the hash browns for cottage cheese and tomato slices, or fruit. It’s OK to say no toast! When it’s not in front of you…you can’t eat it. Right?
McDonald’s
I hope by now you know how I feel about fast food. Yuck! It’s just not good for you, but I know, being a mother of a 9 year old, sometimes it’s just easy.
Watching your carbs?
You can order hamburgers and chicken (not breaded) burgers with no bun. Shoot, you can even order a sausage McMuffin with no McMuffin. Say it just like that too, they love that. The salads are a good option, but try and skip the croutons or breaded chicken.
Watching your calories?
I would do a grilled chicken burger with no bun, maybe extra tomatoes. Skip the fries and go for the apple wedges.
So this is the tip of the iceberg as far as substitutions go, but it’s a start.
If your brain shuts down when food is in front of you like mine did, I say to you, “You are getting sleepy...Very sleepy...You will remember these tips when ordering food and when your food comes, your brain won't even know what hit it. You will eat your food and feel happy and satisfied!"
I know that when I had felt especially down on myself because of my weight issues; maybe it was an unsuccessful trip to the mall or a belly full of fast food, I would seriously think about food constantly. I would think about how much I hated food, I would think about all of the things I was never going to eat again; it consumed me. But the moment I had food in front of me, as soon as I was eating delightfully awful food, every single thought that I had about food; all of the constant thoughts that would run through my head every second of the day...gone; gone as if they had never existed. That is a very difficult fight to fight with yourself. I cannot pinpoint the exact moment of change or why it happened (yet!), but writing about it in the past tense is SUPER AMAZING!
So in an attempt to brainwash you and completely change your way of thinking…Here are just a couple really easy, delicious substitutions:
Starbucks
I know so many people that say they will never give up their coffee, that’s perfectly fine, just change it up a little bit so that it works for you.
Watching your carbs?
Try a tall iced coffee with cream and sugar free vanilla. If you want something extra sweet, ask for whip cream. If you just can’t give up that latte, ask for a breve.
Watching your calories?
Go for a tall Americano with a splash of cream and sweet n low.
Breakfast
Go ahead and go for the omelet, but I would sub out the hash browns for cottage cheese and tomato slices, or fruit. It’s OK to say no toast! When it’s not in front of you…you can’t eat it. Right?
McDonald’s
I hope by now you know how I feel about fast food. Yuck! It’s just not good for you, but I know, being a mother of a 9 year old, sometimes it’s just easy.
Watching your carbs?
You can order hamburgers and chicken (not breaded) burgers with no bun. Shoot, you can even order a sausage McMuffin with no McMuffin. Say it just like that too, they love that. The salads are a good option, but try and skip the croutons or breaded chicken.
Watching your calories?
I would do a grilled chicken burger with no bun, maybe extra tomatoes. Skip the fries and go for the apple wedges.
So this is the tip of the iceberg as far as substitutions go, but it’s a start.
If your brain shuts down when food is in front of you like mine did, I say to you, “You are getting sleepy...Very sleepy...You will remember these tips when ordering food and when your food comes, your brain won't even know what hit it. You will eat your food and feel happy and satisfied!"
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
day 9: avoiding the worst foods
Google '30 worst foods in America'; you might be surprised what you find.
A few things I noticed, I thought I would share with you. I'm not going to name restaurants or brand names but if you want to check out the article then seriously...Google '30 worst foods in America'. I am, however, going to try and give you the basic idea of the article and a couple easy tips on avoiding the worst foods in America; tips that I try and stick to when I'm out and about, at restaurants or traveling.
It is a requirement that I start with this interesting fact: They have discovered a “worst” canned fruit. Canned fruit? Isn't it tragic they there is a “worst” canned fruit. I'm sorry but if there is a “worst” of something, I don't think I want it at all. Don't you feel like you should be able to trust fruit, no matter what? Well, I hope this isn't a huge disappointment, but the best kind of fruit is, and always will be, fresh fruit! Canned fruit...full of sugary syrups. Apple chips or banana chips...again, full of sugar and sometimes even fried. Think about fresh fruit like this...you don't have to heat it up or keep it cold, some of it comes in it's own packaging, it's delicious and you can eat it anywhere. Same goes for veggies! As you can see I'm very passionate about my fresh fruit. A-moving-on.
It's not surprising that there were more than a few items on this list straight from some of your favorite menus, but what is surprising, and scary, is that some of these menu items contain over 6500mg of sodium! And over 140 grams of fat! I think that someone should litterally be sitting in jail for this. If I were you, I would just try to stick to the basics when you go out to eat, honestly if your going to the right places it should taste good and fill you up. Pick a good protein; if is is not breaded, not fried and, preferably, not drowning in gravy, it's quite possibly, a good protein. These are just suggestions, and sometimes it may be OK to splurge on horribly delicious foods, but not every time. Just ask your server to substitute; some restaurants may charge, but usually not. I will get extra veggies instead of a starch or sometimes a side salad. Now you have a meal full of vegetables and lean, flavorful proteins. You get the idea?
When you're traveling; gas stations, airports, fast food...Actually just stay away from fast food...try to stick to snacks that aren't full of sugars and sodium. Keep in mind, however, that this will be nearly impossible. I would always, first, make this suggestion...bring your own snacks. Obviously, this isn't completely realistic, sometimes you just can't. Always try and find fresh fruit. I mean, if you can find fresh fruit at the gas station, don't you think you can find it just about anywhere? Then try things like almonds, peanuts, beef jerky, string cheese. These are all high protein, and because protein uses 25-30% of the energy it provides just for digestion, this can lead to a higher metabolic rate. This basically means greater fat loss when following a good healthy plan.
So after all of this, now is the most appropriate and inappropriate time to tell you that I am not a health/nutrition expert; shoot, I'm still almost 60 lbs away from my ideal goal weight. Everything I write about just comes from my personal experiences, things I've read in books, things I've done a little research on and maybe even some things I heard from someone who heard it from their neighbors, cousins, brothers, friend.
And so I say to you, “Read me, love me and hopefully you find value in me, but never, ever, EVER sue me!”
A few things I noticed, I thought I would share with you. I'm not going to name restaurants or brand names but if you want to check out the article then seriously...Google '30 worst foods in America'. I am, however, going to try and give you the basic idea of the article and a couple easy tips on avoiding the worst foods in America; tips that I try and stick to when I'm out and about, at restaurants or traveling.
It is a requirement that I start with this interesting fact: They have discovered a “worst” canned fruit. Canned fruit? Isn't it tragic they there is a “worst” canned fruit. I'm sorry but if there is a “worst” of something, I don't think I want it at all. Don't you feel like you should be able to trust fruit, no matter what? Well, I hope this isn't a huge disappointment, but the best kind of fruit is, and always will be, fresh fruit! Canned fruit...full of sugary syrups. Apple chips or banana chips...again, full of sugar and sometimes even fried. Think about fresh fruit like this...you don't have to heat it up or keep it cold, some of it comes in it's own packaging, it's delicious and you can eat it anywhere. Same goes for veggies! As you can see I'm very passionate about my fresh fruit. A-moving-on.
It's not surprising that there were more than a few items on this list straight from some of your favorite menus, but what is surprising, and scary, is that some of these menu items contain over 6500mg of sodium! And over 140 grams of fat! I think that someone should litterally be sitting in jail for this. If I were you, I would just try to stick to the basics when you go out to eat, honestly if your going to the right places it should taste good and fill you up. Pick a good protein; if is is not breaded, not fried and, preferably, not drowning in gravy, it's quite possibly, a good protein. These are just suggestions, and sometimes it may be OK to splurge on horribly delicious foods, but not every time. Just ask your server to substitute; some restaurants may charge, but usually not. I will get extra veggies instead of a starch or sometimes a side salad. Now you have a meal full of vegetables and lean, flavorful proteins. You get the idea?
When you're traveling; gas stations, airports, fast food...Actually just stay away from fast food...try to stick to snacks that aren't full of sugars and sodium. Keep in mind, however, that this will be nearly impossible. I would always, first, make this suggestion...bring your own snacks. Obviously, this isn't completely realistic, sometimes you just can't. Always try and find fresh fruit. I mean, if you can find fresh fruit at the gas station, don't you think you can find it just about anywhere? Then try things like almonds, peanuts, beef jerky, string cheese. These are all high protein, and because protein uses 25-30% of the energy it provides just for digestion, this can lead to a higher metabolic rate. This basically means greater fat loss when following a good healthy plan.
So after all of this, now is the most appropriate and inappropriate time to tell you that I am not a health/nutrition expert; shoot, I'm still almost 60 lbs away from my ideal goal weight. Everything I write about just comes from my personal experiences, things I've read in books, things I've done a little research on and maybe even some things I heard from someone who heard it from their neighbors, cousins, brothers, friend.
And so I say to you, “Read me, love me and hopefully you find value in me, but never, ever, EVER sue me!”
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