tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87332323481465302402024-03-12T17:08:30.720-07:00Beth's Advocare 24-Day Challenge BlogIn the next 24 days I will: jumpstart my weight loss journey, lower my blood sugar and change my eating habits! Who's with me?!!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-10368285982696673252012-05-25T10:40:00.001-07:002012-05-25T11:02:09.553-07:00It's been a YEAR since my jouney began<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Looking back, the last year has been one of the most challenging, scary, fun and rewarding experiences I've ever had. I totally changed my life, my health my WARDROBE (omg, you have no idea how much fun that is) .<br />
At the risk of sounding superficial, which I am most decidedly NOT, (I just was not in a space in my head where I felt very pretty) For a long time I wouldn't even look at pictures of myself, before this all started. I would even cut myself out of pictures at family events if I thought they made me look a certain way. Now I'm like.. hey, you have a camera? check out this smile! Last week at my daughters I saw a cringe-worthy picture of me at the Alamo with my Husband and Daughter in what should have been a cute, touristy photo from about five years earlier. I couldn't believe it was me. I looked so unhealthy and dare I say it, fat! In that body, it took me a while to realize exactly what I really looked like. Whereas a year ago I would have ripped that picture up, I stared at it a long while, amazed at image of me then, and excited for that "person" and who she would become, and focusing instead on the memories of the fun we had that day. It is only in retrospect that I can see it. Why didn't I do something about my weight or health back then? I didn't change anything until I was physically tired of it all, and really began feeling like I wanted to Feel different. I guess you sort of get comfortable with the aches and pains and addiction to food and that becomes your new normal, so I didn't see a problem for a LONG time. I had no idea back then what I was really doing to myself, I just knew I needed a change, and had no idea how to get there. I guess it's true what they say, you have to be ready. Now, yall better be ready for ME! :)<br />
So ... fast forward one year and this is what you get... (below is me with my sons Sean and Nick on mother's day)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean and me and Nick on Mother's Day 2012</td></tr>
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Am I still using Advocare? YES! since I'm not reducing calories anymore, I just take The Coreplex multivitamin, my Catalyst when I work out and drink my Spark. I do take Thermoplus if I'm going to a party or something, it gives me a feeling of fullness so I don't over indulge, but mostly now I am able with counting calories and watching portions to stay on track. And thanks to Advocare giving me energy, and my own motivation I am still feeling so great!!! I went from no activity at all to speak of to doing ZUMBA, bike riding, (8 miles a day) and bellydancing. My newest passion is hooping. (remember hula hoops) I am teaching myself all kinds of tricks. I eat a normal diet, cut out soda, do NOT do the aspartame/splenda/crap. I use stevia but not even very much of that. I watch my dairy, Drink LOTS of water, eat complex carbs, and stay away from chips and over processed foods.I eat lots of veggies, watch my portions and have been maintaining my weight without much effort because I still do my yoga/pilates workout in addition to my other activities. I don't go crazy about it. I just make sure I do SOMETHING every day, even if it's for 15 minutes. My goal is 300 minutes of exercise a week, and I stick to that. So have I eaten cookies, cake, ice cream? Sure, sometimes, but I find that I don't really need it. So here I am, today, at 109 pounds! I don't care what the scale says though. You can see the sparkle of life came back to my eyes!!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-73029131125934745192011-10-18T20:37:00.000-07:002011-10-18T20:37:28.395-07:00It's October and I've long since reached my goal weight and I'm still going strong! I work out about 3 times a week to maintain and I have been doing kickboxing with my sons, which is hilarious and scary at the same time. I'm enjoying the time with them though. Not too many grown men hang with their Moms. Or teach them how to KILL. So, I'm lucky.Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-85261075848785096902011-07-31T21:22:00.000-07:002011-07-31T21:36:18.770-07:00Happy Happy HappyMy blessings are not lost on me, that's for sure. I know how fortunate I am to have a wonderful life, a loving family and all my dear friends. I have great co-workers (especially the other teachers I work with in our class) and I love my job. I've always been pretty happy. But now that I've been doing Advocare's MNS all summer, I have realized how much happier and more positive I've become. I had never realized how much I was missing out on being unfit. I never knew I could be so active and have so much fun getting out of my comfort zone, my living room and my HEAD.. long enough to really start living. It took me a while to learn that I am in "control" of my energy. I can now put it where I want to, when I want to, and it just gets easier and more fun all the time. <br />
I am losing weight like nobody's business. Nine pounds to go and I'm there. Easy Peasy. So let me ask you this, are you convinced yet? I am not saying Advocare is for everyone, but living your best life, that is something we all want, right? Where do you see yourself in say, six months if you do nothing to change how you feel right now? In April I would have said you were nuts if you told me I could feel and look this great in 2 1/2 months. Now I wonder why I didn't do it years ago. Just think of all the time I wasted. Take my advice. If you have been wanting to make changes in your life, no matter what they pertain to, don't wait. I wish you all the happiness your heart can hold!<br />
LOVE !!!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-24047780103757365242011-07-04T09:07:00.000-07:002011-07-04T09:07:06.175-07:00New Month- New Me!Well it's true what they say about things becoming a habit after 28 days, but luckily I had a lot of motivation for the change and pretty much kicked that 28 days in the ass. I am feeling so good about all of this. It's summer, and though I go back to work in a few weeks I thought, I should establish a daily routine and can change it as I need to to fit my work schedule later... I'm posting it here for you to see, but also to keep myself on track.<br />
the first thing I did this week was join the website <br />
http://caloriecount.about.com which is free and helps log your food, provides analysis of your nutrition and gives tips, exercises, helps goal setting, its amazing. If you join, my name on there is mermiehug. friend me and we can support each other!!<br />
So, my day goes something like this...<br />
First thing in the morning I get up, do some stretching and take my MNS before breakfast pack which is about 4 pills, *the max 3 is really knocking of the pounds! I am consistently losing 2-3 pounds a week and hope to reach my goal by My birthday in October but probably before, at the rate I am going! Max 3 is better for me than the max e (haven't tried c yet) I drink 1 to 2 eight ounce glasses of water at that time, shower, dress and get ready for the day. I drink 1 spark throughout the morning *wooo energy!<br />
I eat 30 min later, (400 calories, give or take)and take my vitamins then and my catalyst, (amino acid supplement) which is litterally carving out my body like a giant potato peeler of gorgeous. It tells your body to use the fat for energy thereby leaving muscle and helping your workouts tone it better. It's the best! MY tummy is almost actually flat! ME!!! still in shock there! My rear end is lifting up!! my 45 year old butt still has some hope for a shape that is actually butt-shaped !<br />
Anyway, so I do household things or bills and maybe check facebook and log my foods on caloriecounter, go to the pool and chill and then do my workout, which is about 45 minutes of pilates and yoga. Its a CRUNCH brand workout I watch on Netflix called "super slim down" and I look forward to it every day. ME! Mrs. Ican'tdothatcuzIgotasthma. LOVE IT<br />
So after that I do regular stuff, you know, snuggle the hubby, visit with my kids, turn on pandora and bust a move and do laundry, etc. and drink 2 glasses of water. 30 min. before lunch I take my MNS again.<br />
I eat lunch which is usually about 400 calories or so, and I eat lots of fruit and veggies with it. I actually have to make myself eat that much food. I thought I'd be starving but I am finding I have a good appetite and that cravings are almost gone. I don't add sugar to anything anymore and I don't miss it!<br />
So, afternoon comes, where I used to go grab a soda or eat a handful of jellybeans. Instead I make myself an Advocare Muscle Gain shake and go for a 3.8 mile bike ride. And we haul ass, let me tell you. And I can set a pace where my fit husband isn't riding irritatingly slow. He actually says "slow down and pace yourself" I love him. When we ride I call him my boyfriend and we flirt. It's so fun, "I hope my husband doesn't find out I am riding with you, you are awfully cute.." and I think I have to look up what a MILF is, cuz he called me that a few times..anyway, it's fun. and after 26 years of marriage, that's saying something that we do it together every day. (I mean the bike riding.)<br />
After we get back I log my daily activities on caloriecounter and see how much I burned doing what.<br />
I also log my meals, and see how I am doing nutritionally. Dinner is usually around 7 and it's about 4-500 calories, though I usually eat less than that and later have a handfull of almonds and some raisins or some fruit before bed. I always do some yoga in the evening, and I sleep a lot better. Nothing strenuous, just some stretching. And that's pretty much my day. I will be posting some pics as soon as I fix my camera. I dropped it! it still works but needs some love. I'll post more when I can<br />
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LOVE!!<br />
see ya soon~Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-39589663012459457292011-06-19T22:32:00.000-07:002011-06-19T22:35:19.443-07:00it's been six days since the challenge ended I feel really good and I am getting stronger and leaner every day. Thanks to the max E from advocare my appetite is being controlled nicely!! I am starting the Max 3's tomorrow, a little less on energy and appetite control, just wanna try it and see how it works. I'm planning on posting more pics soon. Just wanted to let yall know.. I'm not done!!! I am working out daily and bike riding every night with my husband up some pretty knarly trails, and I have a lot of energy and drive to see this through!<br />
LOVE!!!<br />
ttylGroovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-45064951397789850042011-06-15T11:06:00.000-07:002011-07-31T21:44:12.940-07:00Day 24- I've lost so much, and gained so much more<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIioJ86vVkovEHpoINNoUi9lVqXeATsVxp_Bs-is2WrM5fvVi4na2eD4CgJbSQTMremCuUYS9MNBrfP1ieeOIjbso9CDI6XhYB8FNDsA9u6BafRHpvs8eeDwBTD2QENkmZn95RlXMWVp8/s1600/after+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIioJ86vVkovEHpoINNoUi9lVqXeATsVxp_Bs-is2WrM5fvVi4na2eD4CgJbSQTMremCuUYS9MNBrfP1ieeOIjbso9CDI6XhYB8FNDsA9u6BafRHpvs8eeDwBTD2QENkmZn95RlXMWVp8/s400/after+013.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>So, 24 Days ago, I was an out of shape, wheezing, shortwaisted Grandmother with high blood sugar and missing clavicles!! look at me now!! I still have a ways to go, but I am loving the new me!!<br />
My blood sugar is way more consistent, often 125 or lower! (no more "prediabetes" readings, but time will tell!) <br />
I've Lost 11 pounds! (148-11=137!!)<br />
I am now in a size 10 instead of 14! (pants) and wearing MEDIUM to SMALL depending on the cut of the shirt<br />
My waist is 31 (down 4.5 inches)<br />
My hips are 39 (4 inches)<br />
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My arms and legs are more toned, and I think I at least LOOK taller!! the distance btw my chest and waist seems longer and more toned, at least to me. <br />
In conclusion...this is NOT the end!<br />
As I said, I've loved what's happening to my body so much I am now a distributor for ADVOCARE. The products work and I worked too, and together with sensible changes in my life which were really easy, surprisingly enough, I ACTUALLY did what I set out to do. I know it sounds cliche' but if I can do this in 24 days, IMAGINE what you could do, too!<br />
I will be keeping the blog up, and probably posting weekly until I reach my goal weight, then who knows? Thank you so much for supporting me on this journey. It means the world to me!!<br />
LOVE!!!<br />
see ya soon! (but you'll have to catch me, first...)Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-71712536666341516992011-06-15T10:48:00.000-07:002011-06-15T10:48:20.141-07:00Before (May 22) After(June 14)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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</tbody></table>Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-2047310838245910792011-06-14T19:38:00.000-07:002011-06-14T19:38:47.328-07:00Day 23= I'm so excited! I have clavicles!!Today we took the "after" pics. you can sorta see my clavicles in the pic (more in person for some reason, must be lighting?) But they are there. That is a huge thing for me, since I haven't seen them in a while. I almost forgot I had them. Again, I am not going for super model thin here, but eventually, I wanna see at least a few of my bones, here and there.<br />
I went with my hubby on a 3.5 mile bike ride tonight, and it was so much fun.Why did I ever stop doing the physical stuff? I did have a car accident,where I hurt my back 2 years ago, I have some neck issues and my asthma but I never tried to work around that, except with yoga, but I didn't do the "hardcore" exercise that toned much at all, and by not working out and building up my strength, I missed out on so much fun. But now it's part of every day and I'm so happy that it is. Tomorrow is gonna be great, but so are the days after that, because I'm really getting somewhere, and I like where I'm going!<br />
LOVE!!<br />
See you tomorrow for the 'big reveal' lolGroovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-42477543424368429112011-06-13T21:38:00.000-07:002011-06-13T21:38:53.735-07:00day 22- OMG, 2 more days!! I have never sweated (I mean perspired) like I've been doing since I started this. I never worked up a sweat unless I was outside and it was really warm, but here I am working out in my 75 degree air conditioned house and feeling great because I'm working really hard and I was really working up a sweat!! I feel like such a tough broad! I was even growling at one point today, and I had to stop doing my leg lifts because I started laughing. Maybe I'm not that tough after all, huh? lol<br />
Today was lots of fun. I got to babysit my grandson and he kept me running all day long, and we danced together and played bongo drums. I am lucky to be a young granny, and that I just got new tennis balls on my walker! (that last part was a joke)<br />
What was also nice is that my daughter noticed that I'm looking better!! I hadn't seen her in a couple weeks and she said "wow mom! you do look thinner" My husband says he noticed it in my face too. I can't really tell, so you will have to let me know when you see my pictures on wednesday!! I am so pleased that I am really seeing results, and I am able to just carry on without feeling like I'm on diet. I'm actually on a "lifestyle change" so is that a "live it?" My blood sugar was 125 today, which still is lowish and good. Still no dairy for me and I ate gluten free waffles for breakfast... not a real fan of those though.<br />
LOVE !!!<br />
see you tomorrow!!!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-7852272122725375162011-06-12T21:55:00.000-07:002011-06-12T21:55:21.945-07:00Day 21-in the grooveThings are humming along nicely!! I went for a lovely morning bike ride and came back to find a meditation dvd in my mailbox from netflix, so I popped that in and LOVED it. It had a 20 minute yoga series (vinyasa) at the beginning and a guided meditation, and wow, it was really relaxing and actually quite energizing. Yoga is so uplifting to me.. afterwards, I pretty much cleaned everything in the house while listening to funk on pandora and dancing around with my swiffer. I had been really focused on my fitness and forgot to do laundry for the last few days. I might have stinky clothes, but they fit better now! lol<br />
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I find that I am really looking forward to working out now and that I'm starting to really see results. I am not to my goal weight yet, but I am looking better and feeling more flexible, and that's a good thing!! I have noticed that even if I get a little sore from working out, if I rest a day, I'm usually fine. I read an article about the branch-chain amino acids (like catalyst by advocare) and wondered what exactly they are supposed to do, and one of the perks is that they help you recover faster, so I'm sure that's why I am able to get up and move the next day under my own power. I am really trying to emphasize quality over quantity, too. I'd rather do 3 crunches correctly than ten incorrectly. It's funny, when the movement is correct, it just clicks, there's a different feeling than just trying to keep up with the movements. Tomorrow is day 22.. wooohoo!!<br />
LOVE!!<br />
See you tomorrow!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-44529691618830216762011-06-11T21:39:00.000-07:002011-06-11T21:44:42.238-07:00Day 20- a typical day?My daily life has changed so much since I finally got to that place in my life that lead me to take this journey. I was writing the title of this post thinking, wow, it's day 20? already? It also occurred to me that I don't count the days like I used to. It's just another day, which means I've reached a point where this IS how things are,not "I'm trying to stick with this". I'm actually making new HABITS and I LIKE it, it's not something I dread, and I feel really healthy every day. Oh, sure I have to plan what I am going to eat for the day, and I have to remember to take the MNS pills a half an hour before I eat, so there's a bit of preparation involved, but it's not something that is too difficult. I have forgotten a few times, but now, it's so much a part of the day, I rarely think about it. I just do "this" now instead of winging it! Something else that I love is that I LOVE to exercise! I have NO problem fitting it into my day and I LOVE how it makes me feel. How strange to feel that way. I have said before that I love yoga, but cardio? the very word used to send me running (ok, well walking briskly) to my inhaler. Now, if I DON'T work out, it feels wrong! I am shaking my head in amazement as I type this. <br />
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Some of the biggest challenges have been trying to make food my family will eat that's also good for me. I live with 2 very skinny guys, My husband and my youngest son. So the issues that I have are very different from theirs. While they are bulking-up, I am trying to slim down, and somehow, we have to meet in the middle. Luckily, I'm a pretty good cook, and they are both very supportive. I just eat a little less at the meal than they do and we've been sticking to basic foods. I have also brought more fruit into the house and more salad with romaine and tons of veggies. So we are all getting what we need. The boys are gonna start the advocare muscle builder shakes and I'm excited to see how well that works!<br />
So a typical day at my house is changing for the better. We now do more activity together as a family, eat higher amounts of fiber and veggies and fruits and are making healthier choices. I have 4 days left on the challenge, and I know the habits I'm forming aren't going to end when it does.<br />
LOVE!!!<br />
see you tomorrow!!!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-46536158812095171592011-06-10T20:59:00.000-07:002011-06-10T20:59:20.184-07:00day 19- max-in and relaxinSo today I took a break from exercise and just did some gentle yoga stretching, and weighed myself again, and .. oh, ya know.. I kinda lost 2 more pounds or whatever.. no big deal.. !!!!!!!<br />
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134 134 134 can i say it again? I don't tired of it! 134!<br />
Max-e is doing its thing all in there!!! Tomorrow I am going on a long bike ride, so I am not going to over do it today. Yesterday when I worked out and went bike riding was a little much, I was pretty tired this afternoon after work, so I think I needed a little break, but I am feeling great about the progress!!<br />
LOVE!!!<br />
see you tomorrow!!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-52952355276889946852011-06-09T19:13:00.000-07:002011-06-09T19:24:46.110-07:00Day 18-Best.DAY.EVER!!!!I feeel GREAT!!!!<br />
love love love the new bike!! Went on a trail tonight. I haven't ridden a bike in a long time, a few years, even. But I was able to keep up and did not even get out of breath or need my inhaler. It's so weird for me to have this level of activity and not be chained to my drugs. You have NO idea how good that feels.<br />
I am dying for day24, simply because I want to show you my picture and the changes in my physique. I am doing really well keeping up with the MNS and taking my catalyst every day. It really DOES help make me stronger and able to have more endurance. I mean.. literally 3 weeks ago, not even, I could do maaaybe 15 minutes of a cardio workout, stopping to use my inhaler halfway through and definitely not breathing to my fullest potential. (now? 30 min, and 15 of pilates on top of that, daily) and tonight I rode 4 flippin miles on a bike. After doing my workout this afternoon! And, I am not sore, I am not wheezing and I got checked out by some dude on a ten speed. So, yeah.. :)<br />
LOVVVEEE,<br />
"hot granny" <br />
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!!!! see you tomorrow!!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-36998242568739563702011-06-08T17:52:00.000-07:002011-06-08T17:56:20.395-07:00Day 17- Breathe....I have dedicated a part of each day to just breathing. I sit and simply try to clear my mind and breathe. It sounds really easy, but it really takes practice. Being an asthmatic, I have a hard time with focusing on the breath in daily life, and even more when I work out. I think we all tend to hold onto our breath when we exert ourselves, but have you ever consciously concentrated for a long period of time on your breath? I mean actually sitting down and doing NOTHING else? I breathe "in to the count of four, out to the count of five" through my nose. Your belly should rise with each inhale and squeeze out each breath by tightening your abdomen. If you try it, let me know how it goes. Post a comment, I love hearing from you.<br />
Anyway, the reason I bring it up today is that I've been doing so well with my asthma, and this part of the year especially used to give me bad allergies, but since I have almost no dairy (I do kinda miss the cheese still though..) and really cut the processed flour, it's a whole lot better, and easier for me to breathe. Yet another benefit to this whole deal! So worth it!<br />
Being in this phase of the challenge is, well, challenging! I have 14 pills to take from my vitamin/appetite pack and 3 catalyst right before I work out..and taking them used to require a lot of psyc-ing myself out, even though I've never actually had a problem with pills, it makes me a bit nervous, because I never liked doing it. Something unnatural about swallowing something without chewing, I suppose.. Taking the pills was the one thing that made me the most worried about the whole cleanse thing! Turns out to be no big deal really.And this goes with the subject of my post nicely, because I breathe my way through it. Relaxing is pretty much the key to dealing with everything for me now. By trying to learn "relaxing at will" I have been learning to put my energy where I want to, when I want to, and it's really helped me on this journey. I try not to sweat the small stuff, but, I still sweat like a pig when I work out! But I'm also breathing!! It's a great feeling..AHHHHH.....<br />
LOVE!!<br />
See you tomorrowGroovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-32272375309397131312011-06-07T20:17:00.000-07:002011-06-07T20:52:51.156-07:00Day-16 - I ate a COOKIE!! ahhh!!!OMG!!! relax... It was a healthy peanut butter cookie from the health food store. Even so, I don't have guilt about food. I just think that if you do eat something that's not as good for you as other things might be, you deal with it and move on. I mean, really.. am I going to do 10 more crunches because I ate a cookie? Oh HELL no. I work out pretty hard anyway. I didn't "CHEAT" or fail or screw up. And, I didn't eat it because I was depressed, or because I was so hungry I'll just grab anything that's there. I had saved a little room for it after dinner, then I worked out for about 45 minutes. So, my point, (and I do have one) is that I am not trying to justify it to anybody. I am actually impressed with that cookie I ate, it was full of fiber and whole grain and delicious peanut butter. It was yummy and way healthier than a million other foods, and now it's over. It's in my tummy with the better stuff I ate today. Low fat pasta with fiber ("Barilla pasta plus", try it, it's awesome) and pasta sauce with a TON of veggies, like spinach onions and green peppers.<br />
I have had a few situations recently where someone said "oh do you want a .... (brownie,donut, cupcake, etc?)" and then they go on to say "Oh that's right, you can't HAVE one." Sometimes that irritates me, but, in the last few weeks, I have seen far too many benefits from choosing better foods to fuel my body, and getting off my butt and changing my life, and I'm not going to let other people derail my efforts or upset me about my choices. This is my journey, and I'm really proud of how far I've come. My blood sugar is doing great today, by the way. 123 today! Even after the cookie! so, ya know what? I'm good!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-74680039157948459392011-06-06T20:16:00.000-07:002011-06-06T20:56:25.194-07:00Day 15-lean and strong and healthyToday was lots of fun. I have a little substituting job at the daycare I used to work at for this week, so I got to see some old friends and some little guys who've grown a LOT!! Lots of singing today!<br />
Spent a while at the pool this afternoon and got all pink and lobsterly. I need to go buy sunblock. That's really more a reminder for me than you, but, you know, you probably need it too.<br />
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I am loving the new bike, went for a little ride today and DID NOT wheeze. It used to be that even the smallest exertion made me grab the inhaler. I've got "exercise induced" asthma. Well, to quote "lord of the flies" SUCKS TO ASSMAR! I did pretty well. Cutting the dairy and eating fewer red meats and gluten is helping more every day.<br />
I worked out again doing a pilates/yoga workout dvd and I LOVED it. I was able to keep up and remember to breathe and I have been looking much leaner in the mirror lately. I don't have 2 sets of boobies anymore and the muscles behind them are, shall we say LIFTING!!! It still amazes me that only a short while ago I felt like I'd never get the body I want. I get it more every day. My husband even remarked "hey, your tummy doesn't stick out farther than your chest now, looks good, honey!!" Ab crunches are the devil but they work. curses. must.keep. crunching...<br />
That catalyst stuff is awesome. I will be using that stuff for a long time. Amino acids really help tone the muscles. FAST.<br />
I weighed myself today.... 136! still not starving and feeling great!! Hope you are too, LOVE!! see you tomorrow!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-77204177594615514982011-06-05T19:44:00.000-07:002011-06-05T19:44:47.672-07:00day 14- working my buns off!So today, I got a bike!! it's a KONA mountain bike and I am super excited to go riding. Got it second-hand (love craigslist) and my honey got me a sweet deal! I'm excited to get out there and get riding!<br />
Today, I did yoga in the morning and laundry the rest of the day. I made some awesome oatmeal. Have you ever had 'steel cut oats'? you toast them in the pan first and then add the water. So filling and YUMMY!!<br />
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I am really loving the catalyst. I get an extra boost of energy and I feel like it makes me stronger. As in, I can do more reps on my exercises, without getting super pooped! I think it also is because I am now getting used to doing it, so it's a little easier. Yoga makes me feel great though. I don't have soreness in the evenings like I did before I did it every day, and I keep thinking, if it makes me feel so good and relaxed why do I skip it sometimes? I think life happens and we get side tracked and then go "oh, I'll do it later" and then later never comes. I'm so proud of myself for not doing that anymore. You know what would just be the bees knees? if after I get to my goal weight I find I grew taller. haha. I do know I'll get longer and leaner, and I can feel that happening.<br />
I've decided when I get to my goal weight I'm getting another tattoo. I have 2 but I want one after this. No idea what I'm getting yet. The fun part is thinking about what I want! I might have the hubster draw something, or oh, I don't know.. an anchor with MOM in it? lol. no..<br />
But it gives me something else to work for. I am glad I took on this challenge, and I'm glad it won't be over just because the 24 days is ending. I'm trying hard to stick to good habits, and it's working! Hope you are having a fabulous weekend!! LOVE!!! see you tomorrow!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-52284979414987772542011-06-04T16:39:00.000-07:002011-06-04T16:39:55.079-07:00Day 13 - can it be?Wow, day 13 already. I am just amazed at the changes in my life in the last two weeks. I am eating better and feeling better and exercising more than I ever have. I think I'm probably in the best shape I've ever been, and it's getting more shapey all the time. I am taking a break from exercise today, and pretty much just hanging around the house, so it's not super exciting, but a regular day. I have noticed that the Max E's are doing a lot better with my system. I think my body had to get used to them a little. I am eating well and not having cravings, and that's what they say they are supposed to do, so I'd say it's working!<br />
Today I measured myself again. I don't really have any reason to except that I want to see if anything has changed again.<br />
Hips- 39<br />
Waist-32<br />
and that my friends, is a loss of 3 inches off my hips and 2 1/2 off my waist! wowsers!!<br />
I am just over the moon about that!<br />
Hope you are all having a great weekend, too!!<br />
LOVE!!<br />
see you tomorrow!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-28509309175609834352011-06-03T19:32:00.000-07:002011-06-03T19:37:41.691-07:00Day 12- I broke the 140 mark!I am so happy ~~ dance with me, won't you ?( la-lala-la hey! ) I am now 138!! that's a loss of 5 pounds in 12 days, yall. Ok, not a huge dealie if you are one of those who fluctuate 5 pounds this way or that way, but I don't. I hit the scale a few times and even JUMPED on it, and it stayed the same. I went and got my weights and got on it again, and subtracted ten pounds for the weights, and STILL it was 138! I am really extra-super motivated to see this through!!<br />
This kickboxing workout is just amazing, after only a few times, I can actually see my buns lifted up a little. My legs are sore but getting better. I am not having breathing problems doing it at all and haven't had to stop and use my inhaler. I think it must be because I cut dairy out almost totally. I still have yogart, but I don't really drink milk (I have been drinking almond milk..mmm) and really cut the cheese.... Wait... I don't mean "cut the cheese" like I was doing during the cleanse! haha. I mean like as in not eating cheese. I should have said cut OUT the cheese. But anyway..<br />
So I added Catalyst (from Advocare) today to my supplements. I am supposed to take 3 a day before I work out for fat munching amino acids to activate and help preserve muscle when I work out. I took them today, and I'm getting ready to go do my workout now. I feel like a super hero, "fat munching power, ACTIVATE!" if I WAS a superhero, I would totally say that every time I take the catalyst. I think I may just do it anyway.<br />
Today was the last day of school for students at the school where I work. They provided us with a baked potato bar where we could put barbeque beef and cheese and onions and sour cream on the potatoes. I was not really into that. I did have one for lunch, but I put on a little of the bbq beef, on it and that was it. It didn't really fill me up because I didn't finish it. I probably ate less than a 3rd of it. It was a huge potato, but I could tell it wasn't enough of the right foods to get me through the day. I ended up having a meal replacement shake with it, but I don't like having to do that, since I like actual food as much as I can. But it's nice to know when you are stuck somewhere and want to eat, you can have a nice little meal in a cup and not feel like you are missing out. It got me thorough the day.<br />
Well I'm sure you've had enough of my ramblings. ... so, I see you tomorrow! huge LOVE!!! Thanks for all your support. I love hearing from you!! comment!!!<br />
BethGroovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-71882089175895617732011-06-02T18:52:00.000-07:002011-06-02T18:58:00.149-07:00Day-11 to the MAX!Hey yall! I did it! Day 11 rocked. Not only did I start the Metabolic Nutrition System - (E-for energy) but I felt really good all day and had good amounts of energy. I did notice the appetite control might be a bit too much for me, since I really didn't get hungry until dinner time, and that's when I usually like to eat the least, since it's the last meal. I may try these for a few more days and if they seem too much, (at least for me, right now) I'll try the max 3's instead. I did eat, but a lot less than usually, which might be good, but I don't want to under-eat either. It helps to be aware of your body when you're doing this sort of thing. Everyone is different and have different issues. So we'll see in a few days if the E ones are the ones I need. Gotta start somewhere, right? So I'm gonna give a bit of time and see. I can't say they don't WORK, that's for sure, I wasn't hungry, and had no cravings, but I also didn't really want to eat much of anything. Could have had to do with me not getting much sleep last night, and not the MNS at all though. Our air conditioner is on the fritz. Kept turning on last night then saying, "yah know what? hmm, I think I'll turn on and not blow anything". (I could make a <i>that's what she </i>said joke there but I won't :P)<br />
Anyway back to ME! lol Hubster and I went out to dinner tonight to a really good sub place called "thundercloud subs" which I guess is a Texas thing, (you poor yankees.) Got a gluten free bun! and turkey avacado and alfalfa sprouts with tomato and a teeny slice of bacon. YUMMA WUMMA> good stuff. I am not gonna push a workout tonight, since I've been really going at it for days now, so I'll do some relaxing yoga tonight and get to bed fairly early. I am so excited summer is coming! This weekend we are starting on building my bike, and hub has said we are going to go riding every night after dinner. I know I will... he's gonna have to pedal fast to catch me!<br />
LOVE!!! See you tomorrowGroovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-62861409188891786542011-06-01T15:46:00.000-07:002011-06-01T15:46:26.521-07:00Day 10- clean as a whistleYAY!!!! I made it to day 10 and I am so glad! I have completed the cleanse portion of the Advocare 24 Day challenge! Tomorrow, I am going to be off and running in phase 2.<br />
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Basically, now that I've completed the cleanse my body is working at optimal efficiency. Digestion and absorbing nutrients are improved and I can just tell by the way I feel I'm a bit healthier already. 14 days to go ! I believe that once I've committed myself to something, I have to finish it. Which may explain why I married the only boyfriend I ever had, and never use temporary hair dye. I'm an all or nothing kinda girl. <br />
As a person who's suffered IBS most of my life, I have to say, I am feeling oh-so-regular right now, and that is worth a million bucks right there. I just feel better. which ALSO makes me want to work out. So, I WIN!! :)<br />
So exactly what is this "phase 2" business I've been talking about anyway? Huh? Don't get all anxious. I'll explain it. Advocare, as you may know is a company that used to only market to professional athletes, but in the last 18 years or so has expanded and we can now reap the benefits of the science behind what they do.. So, the MSN (Metabolic nutrition system) is what I'll be doing for the next 14 days, and beyond that I'll be fine tuning and tweaking it, But for now it includes vitamins, amino acids, appetite suppressants (herbal ones, like cinnamon!) and probiotics, which will help to even out my metabolism and help me continue to drop the poundage my body has been so fond of hanging on to. I will also have more energy, but in a good way, not in a "is she on speed?" kind of way. There are 3 types of the MSN. "E" gives you more energy than appetite control, C is more appetite control and a bit less on the energy, and Max 3 is sort of even on both fronts. I'm doing the max E and I'll see how that works for me if I need to change or tweak it in the coming weeks!<br />
So, my lovelies, I will see you tomorrow! I'm off to do my weights!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-70069349807186821162011-05-31T19:01:00.000-07:002011-05-31T19:01:53.153-07:00Day 9- Getting easier all the timeMaking good choices about what I do and what goes into my body sounds easy until you try to make it a habit. But it is true what they say... The more you do it the easier it gets. Take today for instance. I went back to work after a 3 day weekend and in the lunch room were 3 plates. 2 of cookies and one of brownie bites. A few weeks ago, you would have found me with napkin in my purse, with 2 or three cookies I'd be saving for later. It's really easy to say "no" now and it sorta freaks me out how easy it really is. Maybe it's the fact that I do not want to be getting diabetes and giving myself injections, but I really don't think about that part all that much. I think it's just that I'm not HUNGRY hungry. Does that make sense? I'm not urgently needing sugar like NOW! or I'm gonna kill somebody. My needs are being met through high volume, low fat foods and vitamins I wasn't getting before. Now since I'm not feeling those huge dips in bloodsugar that make me want to get chips, soda, a bag (I kid you not) of JELLY BEANS or whatever fast fix I can get, I am able to objectively sit back and say, wow they look yummy, but I'm not hungry so I'm not gonna eat it. Now I would be lying if I said I'm never eating cake or cookies or brownies again. I just don't feel the need to eat the whole pan of brownies or 3 slices of cake anymore. My absolute favorite all time sweet is baklava. If you've never had it, you are missing out. But I was thinking about that today and I could imagine what it tasted like, and that was enough, for now. Is that weird? I think it's pretty cool. I'm starting to mature with my impulse control issues, I think.<br />
As for the cleanse, tomorrow is the last day of the fiber drink! then I'll be starting the advocare MNS pack of vitamins. It sorta seems like a lot of pills but I'm told I'll get used to them. These little magic beauties are supposed to aid in appetite control, boost my energy and fill in the gaps where I may need help nutritionally. The weight will really start melting off then. For tonight, I'm taking a much deserved break from excersize and relaxing with the hubster. LOVE !!! see you tomorrow!!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-54625497761598107282011-05-30T20:45:00.000-07:002011-05-30T21:09:07.369-07:00Day 8- the medium(insert ethereal voice..)I see a even smaller size in my future......<br />
I went shopping with the hubster today. Tried on some tops, just for kicks, and size MEDIUM FITS!! I used to be a large, so yay!! I bought a few little cuties and cannot wait to go get more clothes in a few months when I'm down to my goal weight. I'm noticing that my arms are firmer and fit into armholes better. I have a set of dumbells I've been using and now when I wave to someone, only a teensy little bit of my arm keeps waving when I stop, instead of a giant flap of "bye bye arm". <br />
Anyway, Day 8, oh how I love thee! Back with the fiber drink, and probiotics in the AM, no more of the 3 herbal cleanse pills, and it'll be like this till day 10, and then the cleanse part will be over and the challenge of taking a strip of the Max E vitamins. Then the absorbing! OH how I look forward to that! Get in there, you little nutrients! Make me gorgeous-er.<br />
I lost another pound, so the next one will put me UNDER 140!! squeeeee!! that's me, excited. That hasn't happend in 18 years. In fact I was 140 when I had my youngest son, and it sorta just hung on... <br />
I've just started a pilates workout that I found on netflix! did you know you can watch streaming workouts? My favorite is Crunch Candlelight Yoga, it's a relaxing one. But today kicked butt! it was called "crunch fat burning pilates" and I can totally see sticking with that! Super fun, and my asthma didn't act up, so that was a real plus. I will eventually coordinate my feet with what they are doing. It's always hard the first few times, especially when they want you to contract this muscle, extend your leg, clench your butt, breathe when they tell you to, and stand tall. But, I'll get there! <br />
That "thing" happened again, This time it was my son's friend who said I looked like I had lost some weight. This time I didn't start laughing, or thinking he was crazy,and I was actually happy to say that yes, indeedy, I am smaller than I used to be! I do want to speak to something though. With all the negative body image things and unobtainable bodies we all have to deal with from advertising and the media, I do not buy into that garbage, and neither should you. I am not trying to knock anyone's self image, and I can only speak for me. I am not trying to get to a size 2 or be unrealistic. I just want to be healthy and more toned. I had gone through a period in my teens when I tried to starve myself because I didn't think I was pretty, or good enough or 100 other reasons that don't matter a hoot anymore at all. I think that might be why I never really went whole hog trying to really lose weight in my adult life. I always ran out of steam and gave up. I think I was scared I would go too far again. But now, with age I guess comes wisdom (and an egg roll?) I'm trying to be healthy, and I am not trying to be anybody else but me. If I end up looking the same, I don't care, as long as I'm healthy. I do see lots of changes in myself, and my attitude especially. I'm making better choices for myself, and trying to not go to extremes, and be sensible and stay centered. I really appreciate all your support and all of you who read my blog, so I do want to extend a heartfelt "thank you" to you. Keep Reading! I am excited to see how this turns out! LOVE!!! see you tomorrow!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-88466744783600276752011-05-29T20:57:00.000-07:002011-05-29T20:57:23.615-07:00Day -7 One Week in!Seven days!<br />
The cleanse is almost over, friends! I've got 3 more days and then.. the MAX phase, (which I am VERY excited about!!) The weight will just be melting off me, you'll see!<br />
Today was a very laid back kind of day, I went to the pool and did my own version of water aerobics. I wonder what people must have thought watching me swim in place in 3 feet of water? I really don't care, I had fun. I did lots of kicks and knee lifts, and side steps, and some under water marching. I am as happy as if I were in my right mind. :) Very low impact. Our pool here also has water aerobic classes, I am planning on checking those out.<br />
I am really starting to notice that my tummy is toning up and I feel really energized and great about the changes that I'm making to my eating. It's coming more naturally to me to say no to overly processed foods and choose better options. My husband and I went to the store together and he had chosen a few things where I had to say.."no, I have to have whole grain, for the cleanse,that's not good for me" and he's being really supportive, even though he made the boo-boo face. (thanks, honey, I'll make it up to you, somehow.. :P and not with pie.)<br />
Lifestyle change. That's what this is. I was ready. I am so happy that I found a way to do this without feeling like I'm missing out on anything. It really has nothing to do with willpower. It has everything to do with reaching that level within yourself that says, I'm done with feeling like this. I've decided to treat myself to a massage this week. I deserve it! I checked my blood sugar and it was down from 190 last week, to (drumroll) 123 after fasting this morning when I woke up. A few weeks ago, I hadn't been under 130 waking up! Complex carbohydrates and whole foods are my new bestest friends! Tomorrow I wake to more fiber drink.. day 8, I'm gonna kick your butt!Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8733232348146530240.post-14624157040124921472011-05-28T14:51:00.000-07:002011-05-28T15:01:10.475-07:00Day 6- Remember Me?You will be happy to know things are balancing out, and that little " tooty issue" is no longer happening, and the probiotics are doing their little dance all in there, making me much more confident in large groups, if you know what I mean. <br />
I've been dancing around with my pandora radio station on and I've been cleaning and taking boogie breaks. Just for giggles, I decided to measure again. I had not expected anything but I've LOST an INCH off my waist! I've also lost an inch and a half off my hips, and things are looking more toned.<br />
I am feeling great today, and now drinking lots of water is not feeling like a chore. I used to hate plain water. It just seemed boring. I am loving it, and now am constantly drinking throughout the day. It's just there, my little helper, helping things along. I've read that if you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. So drink up, my friends! <br />
I have a weird thing I want to share. I've even joked "watch what happens when I say "hi" to this person," and they do it, every time..Here is what they do.. whenever people see me after a long time, they say "wow, you look great, have you lost weight?" and truthfully, the answer has always been no. I haven't. I have never even dieted before.( I'm not actually dieting now, but I digress..) I do not have a clue as to why, but I think people "remember me" fatter than I am! So then when they see me again, I look smaller than I did in their head. (why am I in your head, random person? why? why?) Or maybe they were hoping to suggest that I NEEDED to lose weight, and so were trying to be encouraging about some imaginary fitness plan they assume I'm on. I don't know..But now that story is gonna have a new ending.. Because the next time YOU see me and say "ooh have you lost weight? I'm gonna say, YES! and here's how..."<br />
Now I know it's only been six days and that's really not long enough to ... Let me rephrase that.. ITS ONLY BEEN SIX DAYS!! are you amazed yet? I know I am. I am gonna see this through and nothing is gonna stop me from reaching my goal. I am basically a very happy person. I've got a great attitude anyway, but OMG! I am just over the moon. I feel awesome. Next time you think of me, remember me exactly as I am, please. LOVE!! see ya tomorrow.Groovydivahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07815715821618724506noreply@blogger.com1