Seriously Losing It!: 2010

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Calorie deficit = 987. Steps = 10,539. Water 64 ounces. Sodium = 2,079. Fat = 39%

I hit all the goals except for my fat percentage!! Those 6 McDonald's chicken nuggets and 1/2 a bag of fries sure were good!

We went to Wildlights at the zoo last night and that's how I got in my steps. We walked around in the cold rain for 2 1/2 hours. It was really pretty and not too miserable. I didn't spend any time on the treadmill. It doesn't matter how you get in the activity, as long as you get it in!

I am still thinking about buying a step and a step aerobic tape. I would really like a Wii, since EVERYONE seems to have one and love it. Maybe someday ...

For now, I am happy with my BodyMedia armband and my treadmill.

I will be using the treadmill today and walking while shopping. Michael is requesting spaghetti for dinner. I am considering stopping by Mejiers and getting a trout -- spaqhetti sounds too fattening!!!!!

Have a good day! Eat less!! Move more!!

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Progress 12/10

I am not sure you can call what I have been doing progress in the challenge. It is progress in my life but I have lots of work to do on the challenge! Here are my numbers:

BodyMedia FIT data for December 10, 2010

Steps - 7,053
Deficit - 2087
Sodium - 2341
Fat - 39.3%

Anyone out there ever feel like you are neglecting your family? I feel just awful because until I get my steps in, I am constantly looking to escape to go exercise! I feel so guilty. I know rationally that I am giving them and myself a great gift but the short term goals are so tough. I am struggling with balancing work, school activities, my nonprofit work, spending fun time with my fam, blogging and getting my steps in! I do well in the food realm... it is just that hour to 1.5 hours I need each day to myself to exercise. Golly, I can't imagine doing more than that but I know that I will need to at some point.

Yesterday, my steps were completely shopping steps. We are getting close to being done but we still have more to go. I think the majority will be done online now so that might free up some time.

Well, I am off to Chinese school then school play and then a Christmas party. Will I get my steps in today. I highly doubt it. Tomorrow, I have to work 8 hours and then go directly to a family Christmas party. Again, I highly doubt I will get my steps in. I guess that means double duty next week (I think things calm down then)!

Have a good day!

- Tracy

Saturday, December 10, 2010

Calorie deficit = 445. Steps = 9,556. Water = 64 ounces. Sodium - 3,640 mg. Fat = 38%.

I made my steps goal on the treadmill. Thanks goodness I bought it! The walking that I did around the house combined with 2 miles on the treamill took me to the 9,556. I would like to walk 3 miles on the treadmill every day. The time factor is what's holding me back. I can't walk 3 miles at 3 mph quite yet, so I'm walking at 2mph. To walk 3 miles at 2 mph would take 1 1/2 hours. I just don't have that much time on a work day to devote to walking.

If I want to meet my weight loss goal by September, I'm going to have to reduce my caloric intake. The Body Media system says I have to have a calorie defict of 1,000 in order to get to 175 by September 2011. I have a calorie deficit of about 750 over the past 15 days.

It's either up my exercise or increase my deficit if I want to make my goal by September 2011.

When I reflect on the choices I made yesterday, I see times where I could have reduced my caloric intake. I could have not had 1 1/2 cups of pasta at dinner. I could have skipped the salad dressing. I could have made a different choice for a mid-morning snack. Small choices like these can make a big impact.

Like Boxer in Animal Farm said, "I will try harder!"

Have a great day! Eat less! Walk more!

Friday, December 10, 2010

I hit my step goal!

BodyMedia FIT data for December 9, 2010
Calories Burned - 3746 | Calories Consumed - 1711 | Total Activity - 1:18 | Moderate Activity - 1:13 | Vigorous Activity - 0:05 | Steps Taken - 10389 | Sleep Duration - 9:20 | Lying Down - 9:39 | Sleep Efficiency - 97%

Steps- 10,389
Deficit - 2035
Sodium - 2873
Fat -36.1%

Now, before I celebrate this little goal. I want to say that it would have been higher if I had realized that I put the armband on partially over my shirt. Dang it. I have had some sort of snaffu almost everyday this week. Booo!

Please note the vigorous activity again. Again, this was done with the Wii game and not at the gym. Yay! I think it is the dancing... LOL. Santa will be bringing us the dancing game for Wii for Christmas too. I think that will also be fun and good exercise.

The plan for today is to work this morning and then play the Wii this afternoon and possibly make it to the gym. Tonight, we have to be two places at once. Not sure how that one will play out.

Make this day a fantastic one!
- Tracy

December 10, 2010

Excellent numbers from yesterday! I made a real effort to hit all goals, and I achieved it.

Calorie deficit = 1,030. Steps = 10,392. Water = 64 ounces. Sodium = 1,856. Fat = 27%

I tossed the old digital scale which was giving crazy numbers and bought a cheapy analog scale. No more decimals; in fact, I can barely read it. I decided to concentrate on my waist measurement, the way my clothes fit, and the way I look. It's going be a long process to get to 175 pounds. The decimals and minor flucations don't matter. Dealing with "point whatever" is driving me crazy. I'm going to trust the process, redouble my efforts at walking and calorie reduction, and report as accurately as possible.

I also re-established my goals with the BodyMedia system. I basically had to since the new scale isn't weighing even close to the old one. The new scale seems to show difference of 10 pounds. My husband got weighed on it and he showed 10 pounds heavier, too.

Moving on with the new plan, I should reach 175 by September 2011. I think the new plan is reasonable, but I also imagine that I'll change it again. That's just how I roll. :)

Some exciting news from yesterday is that I wore a pair of jeans that I haven't worn in more than a year! They were comfortable enough to wear all day!

I think I'll ask my sister to take a picture of me this weekend and add it to the "Diana's Progress" page. I've been at it 6 weeks. I bet that a difference will be evident!

Have a great day! Walk lots! Eat less!

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Progress for 12/8

BodyMedia FIT data for December 8, 2010

Calories Burned - 3456 | Calories Consumed - 1880 | Total Activity - 1:10 | Moderate Activity - 1:03 | Vigorous Activity - 0:07 | Steps Taken - 9165 | Sleep Duration - 6:01 | Lying Down - 6:14 | Sleep Efficiency - 97%

NOTE the vigorous activity!!!! I did it with that silly Wii game! Also, Nic (from BodyMedia) told me to wear my armband lower on my arm and I did that for the first time today. Woo hoo!

Steps - 9165 Just under my goal. Now if I could remember to put my armband on, this would have been higher.

Deficit - 1576

Sodium - 3723

Fat - 23.4

Eating lots of clementines lately. I think I ate a dozen yesterday. The good news is that these only have 35 calories each AND they up my fiber and lower my fat. The best of all, they are sooooooo good and full of fluid during this dry time of the year!

I am going to be using my Walk It Out game again today and tonight I have my class at the Y. I will be lifting weights and doing some aerobic activity. I WILL MEET MY STEP GOAL TODAY!

Have a great day!
- Tracy

December 9, 2010

I tried hard to get my steps in yesterday since I'd been close but not quite there for five days in a row. I combined short walks on the treadmill between chores and work with a short walk with Opal outside. It was cold outside! The good news is that I made my step goal. I miss the warmer weather and walking outside with my pooch!

Calorie deficit = 674. Steps = 9,635. Water 64+. Sodium = 3,324. Fat = 35%

We're two weeks into this challenge. I think I'm doing pretty well. The BodyMedia system shows that I have a calorie deficit of around 9,000 over the past couple weeks. That should be a three pound weight loss. Even if my reported calorie intake is off by 1/3, I should have a loss of about 2 pounds.

I feel like I'm right on track. My old scales showed a loss of 5.4 in the past two weeks. Like I mentioned yesterday, I didn't trust them, so I threw them out yesterday morning. It feels weird not having them, even though they reported inconsistently. I'm getting new scales in the next couple days. Whatever they say, I'm going with.

What do I know for sure? I know that if I keep walking and trying to reduce my caloric intake, the weight will come off.

Here's to keeping at it!

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Wii Walking It Out!

I tried this game out tonight. FUN! I played with my daughter and I was seriously sweating. The step numbers that they calculate compared to the BodyMedia are high. Probably 30% higher. No big deal though. As long as I know this, I can calculate an estimated number for my armband. I have to admit though that I was doing some dancing instead of steps some of the time.

My daughter wants to get up in the morning before school and do it with me. I LOVE THAT! I am trying to find some Wii games like this so that I don't always have to leave; I can just stay here and do the game with her. A nice compromise. I do admit though that I feel like I cheated because it was fun. :-)

- Tracy

Progress for 12/7

BodyMedia FIT data for December 7, 2010

As you can see, not so good yesterday. We ended up not going to gymnastics because life just did not allow. I got in a few steps taking the dog out though. Goodness it is hard to get those steps in when it is freezing!

Tonight, I am going to the gym. I am going to try to spend an hour or more there to make up some steps. I would like to hit 15k, but somehow I do not think that is going to happen. I will be happy with 10k.

Talk to you soon!

- Tracy

December 8, 2010

From yesterday: Calorie deficit = 597. Steps = 8,362. Water 64+ ounces. Sodium = 2763. Fat = 27%.

Still short on my steps! The cold weather kept me inside and on the treadmill. I walked 1.5 miles on the treadmill yesterday and worked up quite a sweat. I should walk two miles on it on my work days, or I won't get in enough steps. My sodium and fat numbers look good. I'm getting used to the new taste of things without butter and salt. BTW, the salt substitute is pretty bad!

I am frustrated with my scales. For one, they use batteries and run through them rather quickly. As of late, they often flash "E" and make me step on again. (Even with new batteries.) The weight they report flucates wildly, so I'm not sure what my weight actually is. I've been getting weighed twice each day; once as person one and again as person two. If both weights match, I use that weight. Today, I couldn't get them to match. The weights varied as much as 8.6 pounds. I've decided to throw them out and get a new set (non-digital). I really do need to track my weight.

Instead of a weight measurment, I took my waist measurement today. I'm down another 1/2 inch. That makes a total of 1 1/2 inches since October 22!

Have a good day!

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Progress for 12/6

Today was a much better day, although, I didn't even look at my computer until 15 minutes before bed. I did get to do shopping with oldest daughter AND I was at the gym twice. Both gym visits were short but allowed me to get my steps. Here are my numbers:

BodyMedia FIT data for December 6, 2010

Deficit - 2790 - this is obviously too high!

Steps - 11,007

Sodium - 2483
Fat - 39.7%

Water - 40 oz

Today will be difficult to get my steps in. I will walk while my daughter is in Gymnastics but I work all day and even the dog does not want to go outside because it is soooooooo cold!

Talk to you later!
- Tracy

December 7, 2010

Calorie deficit = 820. Steps = 7,995. Water = 30 ounces. Sodium = 4,335. Fat = 24%

I'm having a hard time getting my steps in simply due to time. I have been very busy the past several days. I used the treadmill yesterday morning and walked one mile before I headed out for my day. Other than that, I didn't get any exercise.

This sure is a busy (and tempting!) time of year.

Have a great day!

Monday, December 6, 2010

Vegetarian Anyone?

I am seriously considering becoming a Vegetarian/Vegan. I think the only thing that I could not live without is Cheese and eggs. Perhaps I could start out allowing myself to have these two things and later move to become Vegan. I am reading a book called the China Study and it makes a very convincing case against eating animal protein.

Anyone out there a vegetarian? How did you make the transition?

Progress for 12/5

Finally, I have a minute to post. I have a very full day today and am just now looking at my computer for the first time. I didn't have the best day on the 5th but I made up for it today. Here are my numbers:

BodyMedia FIT data for December 5, 2010

Deficit - 1156
Steps - 7967
Sodium - 3629
Fat - 30.8%
Water - 40 oz

Talk to you in the morning to report on my crazy busy day!
- Tracy

December 6, 2010

I had a pretty good day yesterday.

Calorie deficit = 1,439. Steps = 8,513. Water 32 ounces. Sodium = 2,907. Fat = 40%.

My fat percentage would have been better if I hadn't had 3 ounces of cheese at the tea party. I did the right thing by removing the cheese from the bread, that certainly helped calorie intake, but cheese is so high in fat!!! I had three tiny little cheescake bites. Boy, they were good!!

It was hard to get in my steps yesterday, as I ran around non-stop the entire day. I didn't get any formal exercise in. All my steps were from errands and shopping.

I am proud of my calorie deficit!

Today, I have another class to attend at the Red cross. I will take a walk at lunch, like I did before. This morning before I leave, I'll hop on the treamill and try to log in few steps as well.

Have a great day!!

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Progress for 12/4

Well, today was definitely a challenge. I didn't quite get my steps in for the day. I did do well with food despite the banana nut muffin I had with breakfast. All of my steps came from shopping. I did not go to the gym or do any official walking.

BodyMedia FIT data for December 4, 2010

Steps - 8802

Deficit - 1892

Sodium - 2077 (low because I put salt on my potato)

Fat - 46% (whoa, I thought I made better choices than this!)

Water - 64oz

Ok, so I didn't do quite as well with food as I thought. My fat % is off the hook. Salt and fat are a huge problem for me. I need to eat more veggies and fruits. I think that will help solve that problem. Also, I didn't have my standard breakfast of a Myoplex drink and that hurts my fat% since this drink has such a low fat %.

Today, I work all day. I will try to make it to the gym right after work. If not, I will be in danger of not making my steps. It all depends on the family and how things play out today.

Take care and have a great day today!
- Tracy

December 5, 2010

Well, yesterday sure was lousy! I did fine up until dinner and then I simply lost it. I ate 8 fish sticks instead of 3. I used tarter sauce. Later when I cleaning the table and putting things back in the fridge, I spied a piece of fried chicken that Michael had brought home from work. I was like a possessed drug addict! I snatched it from the fridge and gobbled it up.

I immediately felt horrrible and went to lay down in the bedroom. My grand-daughter came in the room and said, "What's wrong, Grandma?" I told her that I just needed to rest for a minute. She patted my head and said "Don't let the bed bugs bites!" and turned off the light. I laid there for a few minutes and thought about just turning in for the night. Instead I got up and went into the living room.

I fessed up to Michael who was totally shocked (and bit mad because he wanted the chicken for himself). We discussed whether I should get on the treadmill. My stomach felt too upset to exercise. I ending up watching a movie and snacking on apple slices the rest of the night.

Maybe this sounds like a bunch of internal drama over a piece of chicken and a few fish sticks. Maybe you're thinking, "What the hell is wrong with her? Isn't she supposed to be on a diet? Didn't she start the day pledging good intentions?" Maybe you're thinking I'm weak and lack will power.

I'm a food addict. It was like I couldn't stop myself. I wasn't hungry. At the moment I saw the fried chicken, I was powerless. I need to think about a better plan for those moments. I will let those ideas develop. More later on that topic

Okay! Enough dwelling on the negative. Let's review what I did well yesterday. I took a walk at lunch even though it was cold and everyone else stayed in the warm building. I packed a healthy lunch while most people went to Wendy's or snacked on chips and candy. I drank more than 64 ounces of water. I tried the salt substitute that I bought the other day.

Most importantly, though, I didn't "hide." I fessed up. I could have pretended it didn't happen. I could have not reported it on the BodyMedia site and "pretended" that my lack of weight loss was a "problem" with my body. My body is fine, it's my mind that's messed up!!!!!! hahahaha

The number from yesterday reflect the worst day of this challenge.

Calorie deficit = 113. Steps = 8,259. Water 64+. Sodium = 5.063. Fat 43%

Today brings more challenges. I will attending an annual Christmas Tea Party. There will be little sandwiches and lovely tiny cakes. I'm going to face the challenges that today brings with resolve and confidence.

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Progress for 12/3

BodyMedia FIT data for December 3, 2010

Calorie Deficit - 2054
Steps - 9347

Sodium - 4071

Fat - 32%

Water - 64oz

I wish my steps were better but I am a wee bit sore from Thursday night. At least I made minimum goal. I also stayed good on the food front despite the Christmas party we attended last night. This morning is another Christmas party! This one is a breakfast buffet so perhaps it will be easier to navigate.

I will be getting my exercise in after the party. I will probably get in many at the party as well. It is probably a shopping day after the party so my steps will come from shopping. Fingers crossed that I can make my numbers that way!

Have a fantastic day today!
- Tracy

December 4, 2010

Yesterday could have been better. The main culprit (other than my choices) was Hamburger Helper. I had a 2 cup portion, green beans and fruit cocktail for dinner. Not exactly gourmet, I know!! ;) Naturally, the sodium and fat numbers are too high from yesterday. My steps were rather low, too.

Calorie deficit = 1,104. Steps = 7,978. Water = 64. Sodium = 4,640. Fat = 32%.

I'm taking a Red Cross class today and will be out of the house all day. Tonight I'll get home just in time to make dinner for the hubby and the kids. Food and walking will be an issue since I'll be out of my routine.

Here's the plan. Pack a healthy lunch and snacks to take with me. Wear my walking shoes and spend the lunch hour walking. I will also stop and get a giangantic bottle of water to take to the class today to flush out the sodium from yesterday. Tonight for dinner I promised the kids fish sticks (another not so healthy choice for me). I'll serve cooked broccoli and cauliflower and oranges with dinner. I'll concentrate on those and check the box for a recommended portion size on the fish sticks. No tarter sauce!!!

Here's to the promise of a good day despite the odds!!

BTW, I bought a container of salt substitute yesterday. It was expensive at more than $7 for 11 ounces. I'll let you know what I think of the taste. I recall trying some years ago and finding the taste oddly metallic. We'll see.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Progress for 12/2

BodyMedia FIT data for December 2, 2010

Steps - 9482 (lost at least 3k steps because I did not have my armband on)

Deficit - 1965

Sodium - 1975

Fat - 26.8%

Water - 64 oz

All in all a good day except when I forgot to put on my armband! I am so mad at myself for that. I do think that I will add 2k steps to my number for today when I do the averages. I am so far behind that I just can't afford to lose those steps!

Today will be hard to get my numbers. I work in the morning, then have about 3 hours free, then I have a holiday party for the rest of the day. Saturday is another holiday party in the morning. Arghhhh.... Busy busy!

Make today a great day!
- Tracy

Friday, December 3, 2010

I lost weight again! Yippee! I am now down 12.8 pounds. I'm not quite sure how that happened, since my calorie deficit wasn't good yesterday, but I'll take it!!

Weight loss is cummulative, that I know. Your "good deeds" build over time. I guess my efforts are paying off. Please remind me of the last few days when the scales sit still and don't budge for days and days ...

Calorie deficit = 177. Steps = 10,302. Water = 24 ounces. Soidum = 2,094. Fat = 38%

Have a good day!!

Thursday, December 2, 2010

I did it!

I did 42 minutes on the elliptical machine tonight! Even one week ago I would have told you were crazy if you told me I would do 30 minutes! I am so happy about this accomplishment. My heart rate was up so I know I was burning the calories. My legs and rear hurt pretty badly tonight so I can imagine they will hurt worse tomorrow. I am drinking "Reload" from EAS. I am hoping that this will help my muscles get back in shape quickly. If not, I am going to have some painful walking tomorrow!

Eventually, I will be a runner! Now, I would have never said this before and would have never said it before tonight. I know now that if I can do this amount of advancement, that I will make that leap to running in the end.

Talk to you in the morning... I am kind of mad at myself about my stats today. I had my armband off for almost 4 hours and missed between 3k and 4k steps. Boo!
- Tracy

Christmas Challenge data uploaded

Finally, I had a few minutes to create a spreadsheet. I just uploaded it under the page "Christmas Challenge". So far the results are not bad. Diana is really doing fabulous on her goals. So far she is meeting all but the step challenge (only behind by a few steps). Me on the other hand, I have lots of catching up to do in the step realm. I also just reset my goal for calorie deficit average to 1750 and that means I have some catching up to do there!

Thank goodness for averages this month!
- Tracy

Progress for 12/1

BodyMedia FIT data for December 1, 2010

Steps - 10,633

Calorie Deficit - 1,641

Sodium - 3,571

Fat - 31.9%

I had an ok day. I had really hoped for more steps. I spent an hour and a half at the gym last night. Did about 45 minutes of walking and a 15 minute mile on the elliptical. I even jogged when I took the dog for a walk in the afternoon. Where is the vigorous activity? I have no idea how to make this happen. I have gotten vigorous activity when I just walk sometimes. I have no idea how I can jog and not get vigorous activity. Mind boggling to me!

I am going to set my new calorie deficit average as 1750 per day. This is because I want to lose 20 pounds before vacation in January. I may not lose 20 pounds but I will have had enough of a calorie reduction to eventually lose that much weight. That ends up being 3500 calories every 2 days (equivalent to 1 pound of fat)! Now, the body does not always cooperate so I am not going to get caught up in the pounds. I am going to just focus on the calories.

Have a fantastic day today folks!
- Tracy

December 2, 2010

I did pretty well yesterday. I didn't get enough steps in, I'd like to hit 9,000 each day and didn't quite make it. Everything else was good, though!

Steps = 8,318. Calorie deficit = 1,066. (!) Water 54 ounces. Sodium 2,138. Fat 28%

The scale made me happy again this morning by showing a loss of 0.4. That's 11.8 since 10/24/10.

I'm proud of my accomplishments! I have made significant changes in regard to activity level and food choices. Sometimes it occurs to me what I did in my "old life." Things like sneak eating, using too much fat as a condiment, not measuring and just not being active.

I'm not even a quarter of the way there, but I know I'll make it. Steady, persistent effort will ensure that I achieve my goal.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Quote of Day!

"We can do anything we want to do if we stick to it long enough." ~Helen Keller

Today's Breakfast (12/1/10)

Since there's all this talk of fat and sodium, I thought I'd try to make a healthy breakfast, and report in.

I made an omelet from 1 whole egg and 2 egg whites. I cooked it in Pam. I added dried onions and NO SALT. I ate it with two pieces of dry toast and unsweetened tea.

Well, as for tastiness, I'll rate it 4 out of 10. However, my belly is full and the numbers are good.

Calories 248
Sodium 512 mg
Fat 27%
Protein 29%
Carbs 44%

I miss the butter! I miss the other egg yolks! I miss the cheese!!

I LOVE THE NUMBERS!

I'm Back!

Finally, I was able to walk without feeling like I was going to die. So, my numbers are good for 11/30! Here goes:

BodyMedia FIT data for November 30, 2010

Deficit - 2098
Sodium - 3374
Fat - 37%

Fat and sodium are very tough to deal with. I really hadn't paid much attention until this challenge and now I am seeing things a weee bit differently!

Working on an active day today. Hoping to hit the gym!
- Tracy

December 1, 2010

Not a bad day yesterday. Calorie deficit = 754. Steps = 9,456. Water = 64 ounces. Sodium = 3,335. Fat = 34%.

Calorie deficit and steps were both within my target range, as was water.

Sodium and fat were both slightly high. If I had just stuck to my guns and not spread a tablespoon of margarine on my cornbread, I'm sure both would have been fine.

Dinner was good last night! We had bean soup and cornbread. What a great meal -- warm and satisfying -- real "comfort food!"

I'm really loving the treamill. Since it poured down rain yesterday, I would not have gotten in my steps otherwise. I stepped it off in 5 increments, and didn't quit for the day until I was sure I'd made my goal.

The best news of all? I showed another loss today! I'm now down 11.4 pounds. Excited to see a loss of 15! My clothes are fitting differently. I have two pairs of jeans that I could get on, but couldn't really wear. They are comfortable enough to wear all day now.

I think I'll go take my waist measurement really quickly -- hang on and I'll report the results ... Oh my gosh! 45 1/2! That's a loss of exactly 1 inch since October 22.

For those of you reading this blog that are struggling with your weight, please know that persistent effort DOES pay off. Sure it's hard! Sure you'd rather not walk/go to the gym/do you aerobics tape (whatever). Sure you'd rather eat the cake and use salt liberally. If you don't, if you choose to make better choices, things will change. The decisions get easier.

Share your struggles. There's strength in numbers! Share your challenges! When you release your struggles by sharing there's less to carry yourself ...

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Numbers for 11/29

BodyMedia FIT data for November 29, 2010

Calories Burned - 3157 | Calories Consumed - 2211 | Total Activity - 0:42 | Moderate Activity - 0:42 | Vigorous Activity - 0:00 | Steps Taken - 6406 | Sleep Duration - 7:46 | Lying Down - 8:07 | Sleep Efficiency - 96%

Deficit - 946
Sodium - 2419
Fat - 29%

Ate a bunch yesterday and didn't get my steps in but I did manage Sodium and Fat well! Woohoo! I will be working harder on the steps today. Unfortunately I work the entire day today. I will keep my food intake down today as well so my deficit is better!

Feeling better but still not 100%. I am going to push myself a bit today. I think I am ready! I have lots of steps to make up. Thank goodness this is about averages this month!
- Tracy

November 30, 2010

Yesterday was a stellar day! Here are my numbers: Calorie deficit = 789. Steps = 11,569. Water = 64+ ounces. Sodium = 2,882mg. Fat = 29%.

Since we began the Christmas Challenge on November 26th, this is the first day that I have achieved ALL the metrics. I'm VERY proud. The scales also budged after holding steady for a week. I am down 10.8 pounds. I hope to be down 20 pounds by December 22, which is my two month anniversary with the BodyMedia armband.

I posted a "fat picture" yesterday. It's on the page called "Diana's Progress." I can barely believe I did it. That's a big step for me, since I even posted my weight. I'm not hiding anymore. I seem to want to scream outloud, "I have an issue! See??!!"

Thanks for listening. Thanks for helping just by knowing ...

Monday, November 29, 2010

2 inches off my waist!

Coolness, just checked my waist measurement and if you recall the last time it was 52.5. Well, now it is 50.5! Nice. 2 inches is good progress for sure. I am happy lady.

That is all. :-) Talk to you tomorrow!
- Tracy

Numbers for 11/28

BodyMedia FIT data for November 28, 2010

These are the most embarrassing numbers ever. I took it VERY easy today. I ended up taking the dog out only once. My hubby did the rest.

Today, I will be working harder! My numbers will be in the range for today! I am still sick but doing much better after my restful weekend.

Have a wonderful day today!
- Tracy

Monday, November 29, 2010

Here are my numbers from yesterday. It was a good day! Calorie defict = 877. Steps = 10,200. Water = 64 ounces. Sodium = 2,844. Fat = 37%

All my tracked goals except fat were excellent. Fat is still high at 37%. (My goal is 30%.)I had some cheese yesterday; that's what did it.

Heading into the office today for a meeting. I will avoid the pizza that's being offered and take a walk at lunch instead. I have pre-planned and packed some healthy food.

Have a great day! Hope you are feeling better, Tracy!!!

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Fun with the new treadmill!

Today I am experimenting with the treadmill.

On days when I do not take a walk, I get between 4,000 and 5,000 steps. I have been counting those regular steps as part of my daily total. A walk around the "medium square" takes about 40 minutes and adds about 4,000 steps. That's how I met my step goal last month.

On the treadmill, I walk a mile in about 20 minutes. That makes perfect sense since I have it set on 3 mph. A mile worked out to be about 2,400 steps. Soooooooooo, if I walk 3 miles on the treadmill I will make/exceed my step goal.

I wouldn't really matter how I racked up three miles. I could do an hour all at once, I could do 3 20 minute segments, or even 6 10 mintes segments.

So far today, I have done 2 10 minute segments.

I'll keep you posted!

Reflections...

Now that I am completely awake and feeling a bit better, I am thinking about the weight loss. My youngest daughter only weighs 49 pounds! So, I have lost more than her total body weight/mass. It is amazing to think of it this way! I am so very proud. I think I am going to reward myself with a little early Christmas present of clothes! I can wear my size 26 clothes now as long as they give somewhat. I haven't tried the jeans lately. I will not make it out again today. I will probably go tomorrow and see what I can find. I nice pair of exercise pants would be great!

As far as exercise today, I am going to take it easy again. I need this thing to go! I might get 5k steps I take the dog out a few extra times today. Here are my numbers for yesterday:

BodyMedia FIT data for November 27, 2010

Steps - 5,026
Deficit - 1,552
Fat - 44% (ate walnuts for dinner)

Sodium - 1771 <I am thinking that is why the scales looked so good this morning!>

Have a great day!

- Tracy

Down 52 pounds total!

I am so very excited about this, BUT I am still sick! I did not get my steps in yesterday. I think I over did it on Friday at the gym. My voice is better but it is still out. I now have what looks like a huge pink patch under my eye.... OH no! Is it pink eye? Good lord... I am tired of being sick! I am going back to bed and will update a bit later today.

- Tracy

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Results from yesterday ... Calorie deficit = 447, Steps = 4,929, Water = 64, Sodium = 4,990, % Fat = 29.

I made a little chart showing all the goals for the Christmas Challenge and have posted it on my fridge. I also decided to use color to indicate whether I met that particular goal. I tried post it here, but it didn't come out looking the same. I'm sure that Tracy could have posted it, she's way better at computer stuff than I am.

Anyway, I was thinking that seeing it every day and recording whether I met the goal would be another reminder to keep my eyes on the prize.

I seem to have a major issue. My calorie deficit isn't low enough to facilate the rate at which I want to lose weight. Sure, I've had a deficit every day expect for one in the past 5 weeks, but it hasn't been as much as I wanted. I realize that I'm the one making the choices that are resulting in a lower defict than I want. Still I "forget" my goals sometimes when I sit down to eat.

Hey! I just had a brainstorm! Why not take the chart I just made and put it on the table with me while I'm eating? It would be an obvious reminder ...

Well, have a great day. I sure hope to! I'm getting my treadmill today!

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Progress for Friday 11/26

I am still sick but did quite well considering. I do feel better thanks to Mucinex D (it gives me some motivation to move at least).

We had left overs for lunch. I ate mashed potatoes, stuffing, turkey and my cranberry apple sauce sweetened with Spenda. After logging everything, my numbers say that my fat content was only 30% but my sodium was off the hook at 5240. We ate out for dinner at Applebee's. Despite the low calorie salad, it had 3200 mg of sodium alone!

I manage to get my steps in thanks to the rec center near my daughter's gymnastics class. I walked with my hubby for about an hour and 30 minutes to get these steps. Oh how I wish it had been shopping steps.... that would have been so much more fun!

Here are my other numbers:

BodyMedia FIT data for November 26, 2010

My plan for today is to walk again at some point. My daughter has gymnastics but it costs $4.50 to use that track. I might see about getting to the gym at some point instead. We are putting up the tree and generally hanging out at home today. I hope that my voice comes back soon!

Have a great day everyone!
- Tracy

Saturday November 27, 2010

Day One Christmas Challenge results are in! Not bad! Steps = 10,385. Calorie deficit = 537. Sodium = 2,782. Fat = 27.3%

BRRRRRRR! I went for a walk after work. Even Opal was cold! When we stopped at lights, she kept nudging my hand with her nose. I'm pretty sure that was her way of saying, "Let's go, Mom!" I thought about turning around after five minutes because I was cold, but kept moving anyway. After a time, I warmed up and ended up completing the "medium square."

I've been trying much harder to reduce my sodium. It takes some getting used to. My corn seemed "boring" last night. In the past, I've slapped butter on it and used plenty of salt. I just had it plain. Since it's home-processed, and I don't use salt when I process my vegetables, it was just corn. It was okay, not as good as usual, though. I imagine I'll get used to it.

I have been thinking of ways to reduce my fat besides not using butter on my vegetables. This is also a hard one for me. We eat lots of red meat because we process our own hogs and beef. As you know, red meat is high in fat. To make matters worse, I honestly like the taste of pork and beef fat and, if given the choice, will eat it rather than cut it off like many other people do. I have been trimming the fat off pork chops and from steaks and roasts. This year, I'm going to make sure we grind much less fat in the hamburger, ground pork and sausage. Since butchering season begins in December, and last year's beef and pork is almost gone, this change is right around the corner. I have heard about people rinsing their hamburger after frying it. Rinsing it with hot water, in addition to straining it, would remove excess fat, but, honestly that sounds just awful!!!

I pick up my treadmill tomorrow!

Have a great day!

Tracy, I hope you feel better, you sicko!!!!!

Friday, November 26, 2010

Christmas Challenge!

Here we go with a new challenge! We are shooting for averages this time around. This way if we have a bad day, we can make up for it the next day.

28 days of a new challenge! This will be even tougher than the last one. Here is what we are shooting for...

Sugar-Free Pumpkin Pie!

Diana -
Calorie Deficit - 750 average per day
Steps - 9250 average per day
Fat % - 35% average
Sodium - reduce dramatically - shoot for a "recommended" range (2500 to 3000)

Tracy -
Calorie Deficit - 1200 average per day
Steps - 9250 average per day
Fat % - 35% average
Sodium - reduce dramatically - shoot for a "recommended" range (2500 to 3000)

Thanksgiving Challenge - Final

Diana

Steps - 12,124 Water - ? Calorie Deficit - 1,122
Steps - 9,168 Water - ? Calorie Deficit - 123
Steps - 8,194 Water - ? Calorie Deficit - 1,105
Steps - 9,306 Water - ? Calorie Deficit - 955
Steps - 17,062 Water - 24 oz Calorie Deficit - 774
Steps - 9,339, Water - 32 oz Calorie Deficit - 792
Steps - 7,877 Water - 32 oz Calorie Deficit - 498
Steps - 13,528 Water - 32 oz Calorie Deficit - 748
Steps - 9,584 Water - 16 oz Calorie Deficit - 432
Steps - 8,898 Water 32oz + Calorie Deficit - 702
Steps - 6,559 Water - ? Calorie Deficit - + 97
Steps - 20,360 Water - 32oz Calorie Deficit - 866
Steps - 8,463 Water - 32oz Calorie Deficit - 1,028
Steps - 4349 Water - 64 oz Calorie Deficit - 369
Steps - 11,559 Water - 24oz Calorie Deficit - 257
Steps - 8,771 Water - 64 oz Calorie Deficit - 155
Steps - 5,479 Water - 64 oz Calorie Deficit - 251
Steps - 10,168 Water - 64 oz Calorie Deficit -651
Steps - 12,349 Water - 0 Calorie Deficit - 412
Steps -17,485 Water - 24 oz Calorie Deficit -932
Steps - 5042 Water - 24 oz Calorie Deficit - 513
Steps - 4,473 Water - 64 oz Calorie Deficit - 458

Tracy

Steps - 8,054 Water - 64 oz Calorie Deficit - 1,188
Steps - 10,276 Water - 84 oz Calorie Deficit - 1,659
Steps - 13,208 Water - 64 oz Calorie Deficit - 1,906
Steps - 11,634 Water - 48oz Calorie Deficit - 1,982
Steps - 4,602 Water - 48 oz Calorie Deficit - 289
Steps - 13,927 Water - 64 oz Calorie Deficit - 1,629
Steps - 6,771 Water - 90 oz Calorie Deficit - 1,734
Steps - 8.073 Water - 48 oz Calorie Deficit - 2,041
Steps - 10,049 Water - 64oz Calorie Deficit - 1,877
Steps - 8,057 Water - 32 oz Calorie Deficit - 1,822
Steps - 8,476 Water - 54 oz Calorie Deficit - 1,626
Steps - 3,937 Water - 64oz Calorie Deficit - 183
Steps - 9,036 Water - 32 oz Calorie Deficit - 2,037
Steps - 10,140 Water - 50oz Calorie Deficit - 2,022
Steps - 7,180 Water - 64oz Calorie Deficit - 1,240
Steps - 10,297 Water - 64 oz Calorie Deficit - 2,254
Steps - 9,869 Water - 32 oz Calorie Deficit -1,860
Steps - 3,850 Water - 24 oz Calorie Deficit -0
Steps - 8174 Water - 32 oz Calorie Deficit - 1,643
Steps - 16,143 Water - 50 oz Calorie Deficit -2,140
Steps - 3,245 Water - 64oz Calorie Deficit - 1,126
Steps - 5,221 Water - 32 oz Calorie Deficit - 552

Goals:
D -will be working for a 500 to 1000 calorie deficit each day with at least 8k steps 15 (8) out of the 22 days,10k steps 5 (4) out of the 22 days and 15k steps 2 (3) out of the 22 days. Drink at least 64 ounces of water each day!

T will be working for a 1000 to 1500 calorie deficit each day with at least 8k steps 15 (7) out of the 22 days, 10k steps 5 (7) out of the 22 days and 15k steps 2 (1) out of the 22 days. I am also pledging to drink at least 64 ounces of water each day!

November 26, 2010

On to a new challenge! Twenty-eight days until Christmas Eve; that'll be my next "day off!" 9,250 per day as an average for my steps and a calorie deficit of 750 for 28 days. I am still holding a personal goal of 10 pounds lost for my second month. My second month anniversary will be December 22.

I will also try to summon the courage to post a "fat picture." I already shared my weight in an earlier post, so what's left to hide now??!! hahahaha

December brings MANY challenges and I can see some looming ahead -- a day in the office where there will be pizza, gatherings with family and friends, my wedding anniversary. I hope to face them all one at a time.

I have to work today and it's freezing cold outside. Since I don't pick up my treadmill until Sunday, I'll have to either brave the cold, or be creative in getting my steps in.

Have a great day!

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Thanksgiving!

How did I manage all this????? I have more than 8,000 steps in and didn't take a walk! I watched my food today and actually have a calorie deficit! I didn't have any dessert! I decided to only have one kind of potatoes with my dinner; I choose sweet and didn't take any mashed! I got full after one plate and didn't have second! I got mad because I was full! hahahaha

I totally handled it today ....

Pumkin Pie is Delicious!

We had it for breakfast this morning! I am soooo thankful for my husband! He is taking care of everything today. I am a lucky woman.

I baked 2 types of pies today. One Pumpkin and one Apple. Both are sugar free version of what we normally have. I just plugged in the pumkin pie recipe and the result is only 195 calories per slice! Quite honestly, this pie is REALLY not bad at all. Let me give you the stats for the pie:

8.6 Fat

18.3 Carb

3.7 Protein

300% Vitamin A (beta carotene)

4 grams of Fiber

Fat content is high but there is no sugar!!!!!! I used Spenda. It is delicious! Even my father liked it and he NEVER eats sugar free!

- Tracy

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Well, I sorta blew it on the last day of the challenge. Here are my excuses ... I worked and when I got off I had to roast a turkey, carve it, and prepare it for travel. I had to peel and mash 20 pounds of potatoes. I had to make 8 cups of gravy. I had to clean the kitchen up from the mess. By that time it was 8:00. My grand daughter said, "Grandma, come take a break. Sit on the couch with me." It was cold and rainy, so I couldn't take a walk. I plopped on the couch and knew I wouldn't get up. I hadn't eaten dinner. Since I'd put my husband in charge of dinner, a Pizza Hut box sat on the coffee table right in front of me. I ate three pieces of cheese pizza. It was good.

Here are my numbers anyway: Steps 4,473. Calorie deficit 458. Water 64 ounces.

I am going to wear my armband and log my food as best I can today.

I do have something extra-special that I'm looking forward to today in regard to my weight loss program. I'm getting a treadmill! I'm sooooooooo excited! With winter upon us, some days it will be impossible to get outside for a walk. It's used, but in excellent condition. It's a Gold's gym model with all the bells and whistles. I have no excuses now for not getting in my steps!

Have a great day! Enjoy the blessing of your family and friends.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Sugar Free Surprise!

I have taken some medicine and am feeling a bit better. So, I am baking 2 types of pies today. One Pumpkin and one Apple. Both will be a sugar free version of what we normally have. I just plugged in the pumkin pie recipe and the result is only 195 calories per slice! Quite honestly, this pie is REALLY not bad at all. Let me give you the stats for the pie:

8.6 Fat
18.3 Carb
3.7 Protein
300% Vitamin A (beta carotene)
4 grams of Fiber

Fat content is high but there is no sugar!!!!!! I used Spenda. I will let you know how it tastes when it is done!
- Tracy

Tuesday 11/23

BodyMedia FIT data for November 23, 2010

My numbers are sad at best. I am not at all feeling well. I got up this morning and went right back to bed. I can hardly speak and have a terrible stomach and head ache. I am going to go drug up with some cold and pain medicine. I don't think I am going to make my numbers for the last day of the challenge. I will see how I feel later today....

It is COLD outside today. Wow, what a difference a day makes!

Have a great day everyone! Luckily, my husband has decided to cook for thanksgiving this year. I will probably make a couple of sugar free pies and that is it.

- Tracy

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Big reporting day for me! It's the end of my first month with the BodyMedia armband. It's also the last day of the Thanksgiving Challenge.

As for yesterday, I didn't meet my steps goal. Everything else was okay, though. For 11/23/10: Steps - 5,042. Calorie deficit = 513. Water = 24 ounces.

For the last month, my averages are as follows:

Calores burned 2,696
Calories consumed 2,165
Calorie deficit 531
Physical Activity 53 minutes
Steps 9,288
Sodium 3,808 mg
Carb 35%
Protein 25%
Fat 40%

At this point in the Thanksgving Challenge I have met the step goal for 10,000 steps on 5 days and for 15,000 steps on 2 days (I had 3 days). I didn't meet the steps goal of 8,000 steps for 15 days, only getting 8 days. I didn't meet the calorie defict goal of every day between 500 and 1,000 calorie deficit. I missed 9 days.

I had hoped to lose 10 pounds the first month. I am showing a loss of 10.2 pounds.

Overall, I am relatively pleased, even though I didn't meet all of my goals.

My "take away" on the past month's worth of data is that I need to reduce my calorie consumption and increase my calorie burn. This will in turn increase my calorie deficit and help me achieve my 10 pound per month weight loss goal.

I know that next month will be even harder than this one was in many ways. And, as the months pass, it will get harder and harder. I am committed, however. I am confident that I can achieve my ultimate goal of 180 pounds by June. Today my weight stands at 249.8 Today, I rededicate myself to my committment!

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Not feeling well...

Sadly, I am going to miss my numbers today. I am not feeling so well. I will get back on track tomorrow. Have a good evening and you will hear from me tomorrow morning!
- Tracy

Holy Fat and Sodium Batman!

I was not able to eat breakfast due to a fast blood test in the AM.

Monday 11/22

My numbers speak for themselves! Here they are:

BodyMedia FIT data for November 22, 2010

A new personal best for me! Went for my walk with Diana in the AM and then the Columbus Zoo Wildlights in the evening. I was worn out by the end of the day but am hoping in a couple of days to see some sort of results from that much walking! Wednesday is the last day of the challenge. We will hopefully be ready for the next one on Black Friday!

Today I work all day so I won't get in a ton of steps. I will be walking tonight while my daughter has gymnastics. I will be trying for 8k steps!

Have a fantastic day!

- Tracy

Tuesday November 23, 2010

Just a quick note, not much time this morning ...

Steps = 17,485. Calories deficit = 932. Water = 24 ounces.

Tomorrow is my one month anniversary with my BodyMeida armband. It's also the end of our Thanksgiving challenge. Tune in tommorrow for the results!

Have a great day!!!!!

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Monday, November 22, 2010

A good day! Steps = 12,349. Calorie deficit = 412. Water not so good. I honesly don't think I drank any! I drank three cups of tea and about 5 cans of diet fago.

We put up Christmas lights yesterday! They look so pretty. I thought they were white when I bought them, but they are actually a light lavender. I love them.

I didn't take an offical walk yesterday. I got my steps in working on the lights with Michael, cleaning out the garden and just being active. Nice!

I am proud of my response the food situation yesterday. I made a plan and stuck to it. Well, mostly anyway, I did have an extra wing. I logged it , though! The giant salad I made was really good. I think I going to throw away the sunflower seeds, though. They are really high in calories and awfully salty. There's still some salad left; I'll have that today.

Looking forward to a big walk today with you, Tracy! See you later!!!!!

Sunday 11/21

All in all my day was good. I had to spend an hour at the gym to make my steps today. I had no time to get any physical activity otherwise. My workout consisted of 30 minutes treadmill, 10 minutes elliptical and 20 minutes walking the track. Here are my numbers:

BodyMedia FIT data for November 21, 2010

Today 11/22 I will walk with Diana on a trail near her home. The trail is 4 miles long. That should provide an opportunity for some good step numbers! See later today Diana!

Back to sleep for me!
- Tracy

Positive Outlook

A while ago I decided that I would think about my current weight loss as a percentage of the total. So that means I am at 19% of the final goal I have set for myself! When you think about it in these terms, somehow is seems less daunting. I am almost 20% there! It always seems so overwhelming when I think "I need to lose a total of 226 pounds"! If I say I only have 81% more to go rather than 179.5, it seems much more doable! After all, I have already completed nearly 20%!

Try shifting your focus to something more positive. There is always an alternative way to view something to make it more positive! This is my challenge to you!

Have a fantastic day!
- Tracy

Saturday 11/20

BodyMedia FIT data for November 20, 2010

Not so good yesterday. I could blame many things, but in the end, I put the food in my mouth and I did not get the exercise that I needed. I won't even bother making excuses. I didn't even log my food because I had Pizza for dinner and Chinese for lunch. Talk about sodium... I am swelled up like a balloon today! Today will be better. I am going to try to get to the gym tonight for a good work out. I do work all day though.

I will be looking to you today Diane to see the big numbers and for inspiration!

- Tracy

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Another post -- pysching myself up ...

Sunday is wonderful day around here! It's always been "our day!" We both have the day off. The kids can sleep in. We have a BIG family breakfast. Then the kids go to their mom's for the day and spend the night there Sunday and Monday. Michael and I have a couple days to ourselves! Before we had the grandkids here, we always devoted the day to spending time together.

Since it's such a great day -- our day the "celebrate" -- food has always been a big focus of the day. A big breakfast, a favorite for lunch, and a lovely dinner. These days are killers for a dieter!

Here's the plan -- only two slices of bacon, two eggs, and slice of sweet bread for breakfast. (Forgoing toast and extra bacon.) I just made a giant salad; only fruits and vegetables in it. (Forgoing cheese, eggs, and meat) I'll have that for lunch. For dinner, I promised Michael chicken wings. He loves my crisy spicy wings. (So do I.) I'll only have 9 ounces. That's probably 4 "flappers." I'll weigh them. I'll have more salad at dinner.

Okay! That's the plan!

Wish me luck!!!!!!!

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Good day! Calorie deficit 621. Steps taken 10,168. Water 64 ounces.

Weight loss to date after 25 days = 10.4.

I really feel that I am on the right path. Sure, it's struggle sometimes. Sometimes I want more food at dinner. Often, I want an ice cream cone or a sweet. I don't want to walk every day. I don't want to log my food immediately every time. Still, I do it.

Little things keep me persistent and I have to focus on those.

Opal, my faithful canine companion, is a VERY smart dog. It didn't take her long to figure out my schedule. As soon as I take my headset off and close down my computer at 4:30, she's up and wagging her tail. She doesn't let up until we are out the door for our daily walk. She's looking great, too. Her middle is trimmer and her hips don't bother her as much. She the biggest reminder that I have to walk!

Another little thing that I'm focusing on is what my husband said the other day. He said my face looked slimmer!

Last week, my granddaughter patted my belly and said that it is smaller. "It doesn't stick out as much, Grandma."

I have a pair of pants that I bought a few months ago in case I had to go somewhere. As a work-at-home person, I don't often have to dress up in anything other than jeans. I didn't have much decent and nothing that fit comfortably. I went to Lane Bryant and bought a pair of size 20 dress pants. Size 20! OMG!!!!!!!! They fit the day I bought them. They are too big now. $55.00 dress pants, worn 3 times. They're up for grabs. Who wants 'em?

I have, waiting for me in my closet, some lovely clothes. 20 more pounds and I'll be in them! After those become too big, I'll have to shop.

Looking down the road to a slimmer, healthier, happier me ...

Saturday, November 20, 2010

For those that may be curious...

This is a screen shot of the BodyMedia system that we log into. You just plug in the armband and it uploads the data to this manager. You can see the arrows on the left. Each of the sections drop down with much more data available by clicking the arrow. It will analyze all of the food intake and tell you how much carbs, fat and protein were in your day as well as the specific nutrients. It is pretty incredible how much data is available!

In my image above it shows only 13.5 pounds lost because I started the goal over when I started the Thanksgiving Challenge!

Friday 11/19

Did well yesterday but I had a time period when I did about 2k steps that I did not have my armband on! I am bumming. I have never done this for so many steps. Here are my numbers:

BodyMedia FIT data for November 19, 2010

I can't seem to get that vigorous activity. I am starting to think it is because my arms are so fat that it is not detecting this. I always stay at the top of the aerobic zone for the most part. I sometimes inch up into anaerobic. I would thing that the top of the aerobic zone would be enough for vigorous. I don't know! If anyone has a suggestion, please let me know! I know that I am hitting vigorous activity it is just not registering on the armband.

We have a very busy morning... I have to get going! Have a GREAT day today!

- Tracy

Saturday, November 20, 2010

We are rocking it, Tracy! You are doing so well ... exercise, diet, honesty, persistence. I love you! You are my role model!

I have something noteworthy to report as well! I hit the 10 pounds lost mark! (Actually, 10.2) Yippee skippee! It's been almost a month. I'm pretty proud of myself. I wanted to lose 10 pounds month between now and June. That'll put me in Hatterass on vacation 80 pounds lighter. Assuming I keep up with it, that'll also put me at my 35 year high school class reunion 100 pounds lighter.

I don't have the greatest numbers to report from yesterday. I had a spot removed from my leg yesterday and the doctor told me not to walk last night. It's still sore today, but I'm pretty sure I'll be able to walk tonight. Glad the offending scary spot is gone, but gosh darn it, it was my prettiest freckle! hahaha The stiches will stay for two weeks ...

Steps = 5,479 Calorie deficit = 251 Water = 64

Have a great day, Tracy! See you tomorrow for our mega-walk!!!!!

Friday, November 19, 2010

Christmas day 2008

In this photo I was actually not at my heaviest. I was about 30 or 40 pounds heavier at my heaviest in August 2010. I will post a current photo later. My heaviest weight was 398 pounds. I am now down to 351.5. I feel amazing! I have always been a heavy person. I have NEVER been thin or a normal weight. Arguably in my early teen years I was, but then no more. More to come later!
- Tracy

So very proud!

I am becoming very active and LOVING it! It does however take lots of time and a huge commitment to myself. I have to plan every day with my work out in mind. If I have to sacrifice something that I normally do so that I can work out... I DO IT! I can't do everything and we only get one body in this life. Eventually, I will not have to be so serious but for now I do need to be. Here are my numbers from yesterday:

BodyMedia FIT data for November 18, 2010

Have a FANTASTIC day today!

- Tracy

PS this morning the scales say I am down another 3 pounds! I am getting VERY close to the 50 pounds lost mark.

Friday, November 19, 2010

Around noon yesterdayI realized that my armband wasn't on!!!!! Dagnabbitt! I'd missed 6 hours of data -- including a shopping trip where I'd walked around Giant Eagle for 45 minutes. SOOOOO, my numbers are not accurate. Here they are anyway ... Steps = 8,771 calorie deficit = 155. Water = 64 ounces.

Struggling to get to 10 pounds lost. I really want to see that before Wednesday since that's my 1 month anniversary. Yesterday I was only .2 pounds away, today I'm 1.2 pounds away. We had taco salad last night so I'm blaming the weight gain on sodium.

I have one and a half cans of Slimfast powder in the cabinet. Today, I'm having that for breakfast and lunch.

Have a great day!!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

16 minutes/1 mile on the Elliptical!

I did it! I never ever thought that I could and I did it! Thank you Shelley (my YMCA class coach)!

I have 9k steps so far and hope to have 10k by the time I get to bed!
- Tracy

Wednesday 11/18

First off I want to say that I have lost a total of 43.5 pounds since I started with my BodyMedia armband!!!! Since I started this challenge, I have lost 10.5 pounds! WOW! I feel great and my clothes do not fit. I think I am going to have to ask Santa for new clothes for Christmas.

I didn't do great on Wednesday BUT I feel great so I am quite alright with my progress. Here are my numbers:

BodyMedia FIT data for November 17, 2010

Have a fantastic day today! I am going to!
- Tracy

Thursday November 18, 2010

Wednesday was an okay day. Steps = 11,599. Calorie deficit = 257. Water = 24 ounces.

I was in the office and was able to get some steps at lunch. When S. was in her Girl Scout meeting I took a walk. I ate too much yesterday, though. We had a holiday potluck, and though I managed to avoid the sweets, I did eat tons (well, a cup) of cashews. Also, I had a slice of pizza. At least Tracy brought some clementines -- they saved the day! I had 5 of them. Gosh, they were good!!!!

Looking forward to a BIG walk on Monday! Tracy is coming over and we're going to walk the big loop at the local Metro park.

Have a great day!!!

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Tuesday 11/16

I did pretty good! I have a new plan for the cold days when my daughter is in gymnastics. One of the other mom's and myself went to a close by rec center and just walked their track. It costs $4.50 which is a bit much but my health is worth it! Here are my numbers:

BodyMedia FIT data for November 16, 2010

Today I am in the office. I will get more steps in just by walking around the office. Tonight, I will try to go to the gym or walk the neighborhood. We will see how the weather is...

Have a fantastic day!

- Tracy

Wednesday, Novemeber 17, 2010

Well, I didn't get my steps in. It was cold, rainy, blustery, and just plain old nasty outside. I am going to buy a step and step workout as soon as possible. Winter is upon us and I know that I will not be able to walk outside every day. Money is tight right now and I can't join a gym, so buying a step program seems like a good idea. I may also look at a yoga program; I have always wanted to try yoga.

Total steps taken = 4,349. Calorie deficit = 359. Water = 64 ounce. I just realized that the big water mug I have been drinking from has 64 ounces. I have been reporting that it has 32. When I work, I drink the whole thing.

I am pleased with something I did yesterday. When I realized I wasn't going to get my walking in, I modified my menu to account for the fact that I'd be burning less. I reduced the portion sizes of my dinner items and WEIGHED and MEASURED my portions.

Pleased to report a total weight loss of 9.8 pounds. As I stated a week or so ago, when I hit a total weight loss of 10 pounds, I'm buying myself a treat ....

Have a great day!!!

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Monday 11/15

Mondayy, I went to the gym and just did a bit of everything (trying to mix it up)! Here is the scoop:

Walk track - total 15 minutes
Treadmill - total 20 minutes
Elliptical - 8 minutes
Rowing Machine - 5 minutes

Ab crunches 20!

Many of these will not give me "steps" but they are still great for me. Total moderate activity as of 1:10 = 50 minutes. I also got in some dog walking!

Here are my numbers:

BodyMedia FIT data for November 15, 2010

Not a bad day! I hope that you have a great day today too!

- Tracy