A few days before Christmas I was chewing something hard and heard a crack in my mouth. I felt around, looked in the mirror and couldn't feel or see anything so just ignored it. I wasn't having any pain so I figured it was not actually a tooth cracking.
So by Christmas day I was feeling a little pain in my top back tooth only when I ate, but from the gum, not the tooth (as I have had a root canal on that tooth years ago). I also, the day before Christmas started having a sore jaw, like the bone in my jaw was sore. Christmas night I was around at a friends, the kids were all out in the pool playing and the adults were having cocktails and nibbles inside. I bit into something and again heard a big crack sound. This did not sound good and they pain shooting in my gums was agony! I knew that Monday and Tuesday were public holidays so I thought I just had to make it to Wednesday (today) to see the dentist. From Christmas night I have not been able to eat solid food, I just can't chew at all on my left side as if I do it crunches and really hurts, so I have been living on smoothies (fruit, protein powder in the blender), scrambled eggs as they are soft. I can chew a little on my right side but if I get it in the wrong spot, it crunches and hurts my left side, so I just have to be really careful and try to stick to liquids or melt in my mouth foods.
Yesterday I had a look in the mirror and realised that the crunching on my gums is the tooth, really lose and when I move it it pushes the tooth up into the gums. I am SO upset, I am obviously going to lose the tooth! It is only loose on one side, the inside, obviously the crunch I felt last week, cracked the tooth, then the 2nd big crunch on Christmas day has obviously just cracked the tooth almost out.
Now for the really bad part. My dentist is closed until next Tuesday, the 3rd January. So I have another 6 days to put up with this, eat soft foods and hopefully not have the tooth fall out in case the dentist can save the tooth.
I now have a sore throat, a really sore throat (my mother had a terrible flu last week that started with a sore throat) and now I'm worried I'm getting this horrendous flu! My mums cough is SO bad, she has been so sick.
So great! I've got a sore tooth & mouth, I can hardly eat, now I can hardly swallow.
I'm miserable and feeling sorry for myself! :(
Dec 28, 2011
Dec 26, 2011
Dec 22, 2011
Great Christmas Cookbook
I just bought the best cookbook.
It's the 4 Ingredients Christmas cookbook. It has so many yummy looking and easy to make dishes, that can actually be cooked all year round and every recipe has just 4 ingredients!
It's the 4 Ingredients Christmas cookbook. It has so many yummy looking and easy to make dishes, that can actually be cooked all year round and every recipe has just 4 ingredients!
The book is available at bookstores and also stores like Myer, Target, Big W. You can also buy it direct from 4 Ingredients and the more you buy the cheaper it is Here's the link. http://www.4ingredients.com.au/store/category/large-print-books/
Unlike the other 4 ingredients books, this one has pictures and it's a larger size. There are so many yummy things in it.
Some of the recipes are...
Bacon & Avocado Bruschetta
Breakfast Trifle
Eggs with Smoked Salmon Fingers
Grilled Fruit and Ricotta Stack
Skewer Duo
Crispy Salmon Salad
Mango, Avocado and Prawn Salad
Apple Cambert & Potato Terrine (looks divine)
Maple & Pepper Glazed Turkey
Salmon Terrine
Wild Mushroom Beef Wellington
Vegetable Dishes
and many more nibbles, mains, side dishes.
Lots of Christmas Desserts, like Trifle, Plum Pudding, Christmas Cake, White Christmas Cheesecake and more
Lots of Gift edibles, like Lime & Macadamia Fudge, Reindeer Bark and many more
There are also a number of cocktails and other Christmas drinks.
Christmas Shopping
I thought I burnt off quite a lot of calories today! How? Christmas Shopping.
Yes, I braved the shops today and it was packed! I drove around for about 20 minutes trying to find a parking space. Then once I hit the mall, it was crazy. I think I was there with the rest of Australia. Australia only have a population of 22 million (almost 23 million), so we are a reasonably small country in the way of population, but we have a large land mass. The entire population of Australia is LESS than the population of Los Angeles! How is that, a whole country has less people than one city in the USA.
Anyway back to my shopping.
I had an embarrassing situation today. My neighbour turned up with a Christmas gift for us. Oh no, and I didn't have anything for them. Also I haven't made anything this year. I usually do make different little things like biscuits, truffles, rum balls, even Christmas cakes. But guess what, this year I haven't. I've been too busy, been away and Christmas has just crept up. So I was so embarrassed this morning when she arrive with the gift of homemade rum balls and I didn't have anything for them.
So that was all added to my list today. Containers and wrapping for some home made gifts. I not have two days to whip something up. I got some extras so that if I get any more surprises I can have a gift on hand.
The rest of my shopping is now complete! I just have the last minute grocery shopping to go which I will get done tomorrow and I have some gifts still to wrap and once the wrapping is done, I'm all ready for Christmas.
I hope you all have your shopping done and don't have to go out into the crazy Christmas last minute shopping crowds!
Yes, I braved the shops today and it was packed! I drove around for about 20 minutes trying to find a parking space. Then once I hit the mall, it was crazy. I think I was there with the rest of Australia. Australia only have a population of 22 million (almost 23 million), so we are a reasonably small country in the way of population, but we have a large land mass. The entire population of Australia is LESS than the population of Los Angeles! How is that, a whole country has less people than one city in the USA.
Anyway back to my shopping.
I had an embarrassing situation today. My neighbour turned up with a Christmas gift for us. Oh no, and I didn't have anything for them. Also I haven't made anything this year. I usually do make different little things like biscuits, truffles, rum balls, even Christmas cakes. But guess what, this year I haven't. I've been too busy, been away and Christmas has just crept up. So I was so embarrassed this morning when she arrive with the gift of homemade rum balls and I didn't have anything for them.
So that was all added to my list today. Containers and wrapping for some home made gifts. I not have two days to whip something up. I got some extras so that if I get any more surprises I can have a gift on hand.
The rest of my shopping is now complete! I just have the last minute grocery shopping to go which I will get done tomorrow and I have some gifts still to wrap and once the wrapping is done, I'm all ready for Christmas.
I hope you all have your shopping done and don't have to go out into the crazy Christmas last minute shopping crowds!
Christmas Time
I think this has to be the hardest time of the year to be trying to lose weight!
I am not sure quite how I am going to handle this festive season, food wise. In Australia we celebrate Christmas on Christmas Day. I know a lot of countries celebrate on Christmas Eve but we seem to have our big main Christmas meal for lunch on Christmas Day. Our traditional Christmas meal is a big hot roast turkey, roast vegetables and gravy with Christmas pudding and hot custard for dessert. My family still has this big hot lunch. But many in Australia have moved to a delicious big seafood lunch, lots of prawns (shrimp), lobster, bugs, etc. For those with multiple families, in laws, in laws and parents who have split up and do not mix together, Christmas Day can be spent going from meal to meal.
I remember a few years, my husband and I would spend the entire day eating and driving. His family live about an hour away, mine up the road, none of our parents are still married to each other, so we have 4 meals to do on that day! It was just crazy. We would always have the morning with his family but that meant getting up very early Christmas morning to make the first breakfast over an hours drive away. Once our son was born it was just too much. He would get up in the morning and want to spend the morning opening his presents from Santa, not racing out the door at 6am, long drive, eat, eat again, long drive, eat lunch, drive, dinner, drive home, fall asleep in the car. It was CRAZY!.
How did I put an end to this craziness? We started going away! I do have to admit, we went away with my family, but for the next several years, we went overseas for a white Christmas. It was fantastic, so stress free. I would pack all of Santa''s gifts in the suitcase, our son would hang his Santa sack up outside on the balcony of our hotel room (there was a hook out there, like it was put there for my son's Santa sack). I would pack Christmas trees (just, small, cheap, already decorated ones from the $2 shop) for all of my family. We would have about 4 or 5 hotel rooms, usually on the same floor. We would all put our cheap little trees up, which were so cheap that we could leave them behind and it gave me more room to bring shopping home. We had a small gift limit, so didn't have to drag big gifts home and it was very civilised. We would wake up Christmas morning, my son would find that Santa had been, he would open and play with his presents. We would then all meet up in one of the rooms and have a big present opening session, then would head down to breakfast at the hotel. It was lovely.
We haven't done that in a few years. Now my husband's family seem to do a big Christmas celebration in the weeks leading up to Christmas as the family is so large that many are often going away so it's more convenient to do a celebration and get together before Christmas. Then on Christmas Day we go to lunch at my mothers house and that's it. It is much more relaxing and we have time to actually enjoy the day.
But the whole season, catching up with friends. The whole week from Christmas to New Year seems to consist of eating, drinking, eating, eating and eating. Christmas Day we will be having the big hot turkey lunch, then it's off to dinner at a friends house, hopefully no food required for dinner after the massive lunch.
I hope everybody has a wonderful Christmas filled with lots of laughs, great company and yummy food!
I am not sure quite how I am going to handle this festive season, food wise. In Australia we celebrate Christmas on Christmas Day. I know a lot of countries celebrate on Christmas Eve but we seem to have our big main Christmas meal for lunch on Christmas Day. Our traditional Christmas meal is a big hot roast turkey, roast vegetables and gravy with Christmas pudding and hot custard for dessert. My family still has this big hot lunch. But many in Australia have moved to a delicious big seafood lunch, lots of prawns (shrimp), lobster, bugs, etc. For those with multiple families, in laws, in laws and parents who have split up and do not mix together, Christmas Day can be spent going from meal to meal.
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| Our Christmas Tree |
How did I put an end to this craziness? We started going away! I do have to admit, we went away with my family, but for the next several years, we went overseas for a white Christmas. It was fantastic, so stress free. I would pack all of Santa''s gifts in the suitcase, our son would hang his Santa sack up outside on the balcony of our hotel room (there was a hook out there, like it was put there for my son's Santa sack). I would pack Christmas trees (just, small, cheap, already decorated ones from the $2 shop) for all of my family. We would have about 4 or 5 hotel rooms, usually on the same floor. We would all put our cheap little trees up, which were so cheap that we could leave them behind and it gave me more room to bring shopping home. We had a small gift limit, so didn't have to drag big gifts home and it was very civilised. We would wake up Christmas morning, my son would find that Santa had been, he would open and play with his presents. We would then all meet up in one of the rooms and have a big present opening session, then would head down to breakfast at the hotel. It was lovely.
We haven't done that in a few years. Now my husband's family seem to do a big Christmas celebration in the weeks leading up to Christmas as the family is so large that many are often going away so it's more convenient to do a celebration and get together before Christmas. Then on Christmas Day we go to lunch at my mothers house and that's it. It is much more relaxing and we have time to actually enjoy the day.
But the whole season, catching up with friends. The whole week from Christmas to New Year seems to consist of eating, drinking, eating, eating and eating. Christmas Day we will be having the big hot turkey lunch, then it's off to dinner at a friends house, hopefully no food required for dinner after the massive lunch.
I hope everybody has a wonderful Christmas filled with lots of laughs, great company and yummy food!
Dec 19, 2011
Google Plus
I have to say that I'm confused!
Now I think of my self as reasonably tech savvy. I am the go to person in the family with any computer or internet type questions. I am on twitter, facebook etc. I have an online business. So I know my way around a computer.
But for the life of me, I can not work out Google Plus. I am on there, I have created a page for this blog and my new travel blog. But I kind of don't get it. Is it a cross between twitter and facebook? None of my friends are on Google Plus yet, so I don't have any friends or family to add, everybody seems to be on facebook. I don't get the whole circle thing. I can't work out how to find people other than clicking on the "entertainment" or such headings. I'd love to follow blog pages and blogs that I follow and other people, not just celebrities.
I guess I will work it out. I've added the Google Plus badge to my page here on my blog for anybody who is on Google Plus. Guess I will work it out one day, LOL.
Now I think of my self as reasonably tech savvy. I am the go to person in the family with any computer or internet type questions. I am on twitter, facebook etc. I have an online business. So I know my way around a computer.
But for the life of me, I can not work out Google Plus. I am on there, I have created a page for this blog and my new travel blog. But I kind of don't get it. Is it a cross between twitter and facebook? None of my friends are on Google Plus yet, so I don't have any friends or family to add, everybody seems to be on facebook. I don't get the whole circle thing. I can't work out how to find people other than clicking on the "entertainment" or such headings. I'd love to follow blog pages and blogs that I follow and other people, not just celebrities.
I guess I will work it out. I've added the Google Plus badge to my page here on my blog for anybody who is on Google Plus. Guess I will work it out one day, LOL.
No Vacation Weight Gain
I have been so nervous since arriving home, too nervous to hop on the scales.
Being away on vacation for a couple of weeks can tend to promote weight gain rather than loss. I was really good whist we were away. I did an online order from Coles to be delivered to our accommodation, so I continued to make my protein shakes for breakfast, sometimes a late night snack, afternoon tea, even dinner.
I did still have a few naughty things, we had a buffet breakfast twice where I did indulge in a big breakfast, I had a cream & jam donut (oh it was SO good). But I guess as I kept going to the gym and also doing some good walks around the island (there are some really big hills on Hamilton Island) and swimming, I hoped that I wouldn't undo all that I had done over the last three months.
Well this morning I hopped on the scales. I have lost 1kg (2.2lbs). So I am thrilled. Not only did I not gain any weight whilst away, but I did actually continue to lose weight.
Now it's Christmas time, hope the losing trend continues!
Being away on vacation for a couple of weeks can tend to promote weight gain rather than loss. I was really good whist we were away. I did an online order from Coles to be delivered to our accommodation, so I continued to make my protein shakes for breakfast, sometimes a late night snack, afternoon tea, even dinner.
I did still have a few naughty things, we had a buffet breakfast twice where I did indulge in a big breakfast, I had a cream & jam donut (oh it was SO good). But I guess as I kept going to the gym and also doing some good walks around the island (there are some really big hills on Hamilton Island) and swimming, I hoped that I wouldn't undo all that I had done over the last three months.
Well this morning I hopped on the scales. I have lost 1kg (2.2lbs). So I am thrilled. Not only did I not gain any weight whilst away, but I did actually continue to lose weight.
Now it's Christmas time, hope the losing trend continues!
Dec 17, 2011
Home Again
Well after a wonderful, relaxing, two week vacation we are home.
It was really good on the trip. Stuck to my eating plan most of the time (yes I was naughty sometimes, but I was on vacation, LOL). I also went to the gym almost every day.
The gym was quite small, but it was all I needed.
It was really good on the trip. Stuck to my eating plan most of the time (yes I was naughty sometimes, but I was on vacation, LOL). I also went to the gym almost every day.
The gym was quite small, but it was all I needed.
Yes it was small. But look at the view when you are on the treadmill, bike, eliptical etc. Just amazing!
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| Not a bad view as you walk on the treadmill |
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| Not a bad view as you peddle on the bike |
To read more about my vacation, pop over to my travel blog A Mother, A Son and A Suitcase.
Nov 29, 2011
Vacation
I am heading to the gym today for my weigh in and measurements for the final time for the 12 week transformation challenge. My personal challenge isn't over as I am only 1/3 of the way to my goal weight, but the official challenge ends at the end of this week. Unfortunately I am going away on vacation so will not be home for the final week of the challenge.
I don't actually think I will win, as I have seen others on the challenge and they look amazing. The men seem to lose a lot more than the women, annoying, LOL. I will let you know how I go. I think after my vacation I will be due for some updates to my progress photos.
I will still be exercising and sticking to my eating plan whilst away on vacation.
If you want to follow my vacation you can read about it on my travel blog. A Mother, A Son and A Suitcase.
I don't actually think I will win, as I have seen others on the challenge and they look amazing. The men seem to lose a lot more than the women, annoying, LOL. I will let you know how I go. I think after my vacation I will be due for some updates to my progress photos.
I will still be exercising and sticking to my eating plan whilst away on vacation.
If you want to follow my vacation you can read about it on my travel blog. A Mother, A Son and A Suitcase.
Nov 23, 2011
12 Week Challenge Is Almost Over
Can you believe my 12 week transformation challenge is almost over! I can't. The time seems to have gone so quickly.
Sadly I am going away on vacation so will miss the last week of the challenge and will not be able to go to the final presentation dinner. I don't mind though, I will be relaxing on the gorgeous Hamilton Island, showing off my 10+ kg lighter body. Now I do still have about 20kgs to lose, I'm about 1/3 of the way through my weight loss journey.
I have my final weigh and measure in on Monday at the gym, a week early thanks to being away at the end. Also I have final photos! That is what I'm really looking forward to, to see the difference on camera.
I'm actually really looking forward to the trip. At the place we are staying at, there is a gym, so I will be able to continue with my workout routine. There are also lots of gorgeous walking tracks that I can do too to add something different to my workouts. I have been to Hamilton Island so many times and not once have I done a walk. Well I tried one day up one of the massive hills and I walked about 100 metres up and it almost killed me, LOL. It will be interesting to see how much further I get this trip after I have been exercising for the last three months.
I will keep you updated on my progress whilst away for the two weeks and will let you know how I go on Monday with my final weigh/measure/photos.
Sadly I am going away on vacation so will miss the last week of the challenge and will not be able to go to the final presentation dinner. I don't mind though, I will be relaxing on the gorgeous Hamilton Island, showing off my 10+ kg lighter body. Now I do still have about 20kgs to lose, I'm about 1/3 of the way through my weight loss journey.
I have my final weigh and measure in on Monday at the gym, a week early thanks to being away at the end. Also I have final photos! That is what I'm really looking forward to, to see the difference on camera.
I'm actually really looking forward to the trip. At the place we are staying at, there is a gym, so I will be able to continue with my workout routine. There are also lots of gorgeous walking tracks that I can do too to add something different to my workouts. I have been to Hamilton Island so many times and not once have I done a walk. Well I tried one day up one of the massive hills and I walked about 100 metres up and it almost killed me, LOL. It will be interesting to see how much further I get this trip after I have been exercising for the last three months.
I will keep you updated on my progress whilst away for the two weeks and will let you know how I go on Monday with my final weigh/measure/photos.
Nov 22, 2011
Birthday Weekend
Well I have just had my birthday and I did not behave (in the food/eating department), LOL .
Good thing is.... I still lost weight over the weekend. Not a lot, but certainly didn't put anything on.
I went out for dinner twice over the weekend.
We had teppanyaki for one meal, where I had a big bowl of this....
Then at the dinner with my family, this arrived just as they cleared the plates from our main meal.
Yes I did have a piece and it was SO delicious. It was chocolate mud cake and it was worth every mouthful. I have been so good for the last couple of months that I thought surely it would be ok to have a treat. After all, it was my birthday.
I'm glad that I didn't put any weight on over the weekend. I am off on vacation for two weeks next week. Hope my weight loss continues whilst I'm away. There is a gym where we are staying so I do plan on going to the gym every day. I will keep you posted whilst I'm away on my progress!
Good thing is.... I still lost weight over the weekend. Not a lot, but certainly didn't put anything on.
I went out for dinner twice over the weekend.
We had teppanyaki for one meal, where I had a big bowl of this....
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| Yes, that is chicken fried rice and it was delicious! |
Then at the dinner with my family, this arrived just as they cleared the plates from our main meal.
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| Dark Chocolate Mud Cake with White Chocolate swirls.... So Good |
Yes I did have a piece and it was SO delicious. It was chocolate mud cake and it was worth every mouthful. I have been so good for the last couple of months that I thought surely it would be ok to have a treat. After all, it was my birthday.
I'm glad that I didn't put any weight on over the weekend. I am off on vacation for two weeks next week. Hope my weight loss continues whilst I'm away. There is a gym where we are staying so I do plan on going to the gym every day. I will keep you posted whilst I'm away on my progress!
Nov 10, 2011
Plodding Along
Well I weighed myself this morning and I have lost a total of 9.9kgs (21.82lbs) so far, that's in 8 weeks.
So I'm really happy. I'm averaging about 1kg a week. They say the slower it comes off, the more likely it is to stay off.
I have to say that I am finding it hard to keep motivated to go to the gym at the moment! Something else always seems to come up or I'm sore from a previous workout. I have still been going about 4 times a week, but those times, I really have to force myself to go. I know that my blood pressure had come down and in order to keep it down I have to exercise so I will continue to go. I'm still sticking to the diet too, which I thought I would find hard, but maybe that I am actually eating more than I did before and that fact that I can still have my dark chocolate keeps me on track.
So for those still following my journey, Thank You!
So I'm really happy. I'm averaging about 1kg a week. They say the slower it comes off, the more likely it is to stay off.
I have to say that I am finding it hard to keep motivated to go to the gym at the moment! Something else always seems to come up or I'm sore from a previous workout. I have still been going about 4 times a week, but those times, I really have to force myself to go. I know that my blood pressure had come down and in order to keep it down I have to exercise so I will continue to go. I'm still sticking to the diet too, which I thought I would find hard, but maybe that I am actually eating more than I did before and that fact that I can still have my dark chocolate keeps me on track.
So for those still following my journey, Thank You!
Oct 25, 2011
New Bathroom Scales
I got new bathroom scales today!
Why? I don't know. I guess a now that I am seriously into this weight loss and turning my life around by getting healthy, I thought my old scales should be upgraded to some new... super dooper... all the bells and whistles scales. I don't like them!
These new scales measure body fat, water, weight, they are very high tech. But there is a problem! I am 2 kgs (4.4 lbs) heavier with these scales, LOL.
So now what to do? I am the same weight this morning as I am now, but according to my new scales I am heavier. So do I stick with the old scales or do I start using the old scales and all of my measurements will have to go up, when I haven't put on weight.
Oh well, I guess I may as well use the new ones.
Why? I don't know. I guess a now that I am seriously into this weight loss and turning my life around by getting healthy, I thought my old scales should be upgraded to some new... super dooper... all the bells and whistles scales. I don't like them!
These new scales measure body fat, water, weight, they are very high tech. But there is a problem! I am 2 kgs (4.4 lbs) heavier with these scales, LOL.
So now what to do? I am the same weight this morning as I am now, but according to my new scales I am heavier. So do I stick with the old scales or do I start using the old scales and all of my measurements will have to go up, when I haven't put on weight.
Oh well, I guess I may as well use the new ones.
Oct 21, 2011
Great News
I went to the Dr today. I have been on blood pressure medication for a year and a half now, since I tore the artery in my neck to keep my blood pressure low (it tends to be on the high side). Before my vertebral artery dissection I was borderline hypertensive. So I had borderline high blood pressure, not quite high enough to medicate. Then I tore the artery and they said it needs to be medicated.
I started on the lowest dose, 150mgs but it didn't help. My dose was then increased to 300mgs a day where it has been for over a year.
Anyway I went and saw my Dr today and as my blood pressure has been so good since I started this challenge and am exercising up to 5 to 6 times a week. My medication has reduced down to 150mgs a day from 300mg a day. I am to stay on that for a month and see that it is still stable, then move to 150mgs every second day!!!!!!
I am then hoping, that as my cardio vascular fitness improves over the next couple of months and if it continues to improve at the rate it has been over the last month and a half, then I may actually get off this medication altogether.
On that note... I am heading off to the gym.
Very Exciting!
I started on the lowest dose, 150mgs but it didn't help. My dose was then increased to 300mgs a day where it has been for over a year.
Anyway I went and saw my Dr today and as my blood pressure has been so good since I started this challenge and am exercising up to 5 to 6 times a week. My medication has reduced down to 150mgs a day from 300mg a day. I am to stay on that for a month and see that it is still stable, then move to 150mgs every second day!!!!!!
I am then hoping, that as my cardio vascular fitness improves over the next couple of months and if it continues to improve at the rate it has been over the last month and a half, then I may actually get off this medication altogether.
On that note... I am heading off to the gym.
Very Exciting!
Oct 9, 2011
Results from Week 4
I had my Week 4 measurements and weigh in on Friday. I hadn't lost as much weight as I had planned but my fat loss was quite big.
Skin Fold (pinch test/fat test) results
9/9/11 10/7/11
Tricep - 31 31
Umbilicus (stomach) - 48 33
S-iliac - (back I think) 33 26
Sub Scapular (?) 38 33
Axilla (under arm area) 27 16
Pectoral 23 20
Thigh 68 52
Total 268 211
Measurements (in cm's)
Shoulder 120 119
Chest 110 107
Navel 114 89
Right Bicep 35 33
Left Bicep 34 33
Hips 117 114
Right Thigh 66.5 62
Left Thigh 69.5 67
Total 666 624
Weight (in KG's) 87.7 82.5
Skin Fold (pinch test/fat test) results
9/9/11 10/7/11
Tricep - 31 31
Umbilicus (stomach) - 48 33
S-iliac - (back I think) 33 26
Sub Scapular (?) 38 33
Axilla (under arm area) 27 16
Pectoral 23 20
Thigh 68 52
Total 268 211
Measurements (in cm's)
Shoulder 120 119
Chest 110 107
Navel 114 89
Right Bicep 35 33
Left Bicep 34 33
Hips 117 114
Right Thigh 66.5 62
Left Thigh 69.5 67
Total 666 624
Weight (in KG's) 87.7 82.5
Oct 6, 2011
Results Tomorrow
I'm both excited and nervous about tomorrow. As part of the 12 week transformation challenge, we have to be weighed and measured each 4 weeks. Tomorrow is my 4 weekly weigh in and measurements... I have been doing this challenge now for 4 weeks.
I have no idea why I am nervous. I have been weighing and measuring myself along the way, I can't help it. My trainer said I shouldn't be doing that. I should just wait for when she does it but i just can't help myself. I actually find it more motivating by seeing my progress. Not that I need to. I can tell from my clothes that I have lost weight and a lot from around my waist.
More and more people are noticing too. Almost daily I am having people comment on my weight loss. "are you losing weight". "Ah yes, I sure am... thanks for noticing" is always my reply.
Tomorrow I will post my results for all of you to see.
Stay tuned.....
I have no idea why I am nervous. I have been weighing and measuring myself along the way, I can't help it. My trainer said I shouldn't be doing that. I should just wait for when she does it but i just can't help myself. I actually find it more motivating by seeing my progress. Not that I need to. I can tell from my clothes that I have lost weight and a lot from around my waist.
More and more people are noticing too. Almost daily I am having people comment on my weight loss. "are you losing weight". "Ah yes, I sure am... thanks for noticing" is always my reply.
Tomorrow I will post my results for all of you to see.
Stay tuned.....
Sep 28, 2011
Nightmare Neighbours
Today has been a very stressful and drama filled.
The day started with me waking up a little later than usual. My son was still asleep. Being school holidays I do let him sleep in as he is growing and needs his sleep.
I was downstairs in my bra and underpants (yes a bit too much information, LOL. And yes, a really scary sight!) and I looked outside into my backyard and there was a man. Wandering around in my yard, wearing some sort of yellow jacket that trades people seem to wear in Australia. I was mortified. I wasn't scared... as I do live in a gated community, which is very safe and we have security people at the gates who have to let everybody in, so I know he was a tradesman (by the yellow jacket) and therefore had been let in by security for some reason. He seemed to be doing something in my garden.
I ran upstairs to finish getting dressed and then proceeded out in front of my house where he as in his truck, which was parked over my drive way. I said good morning and asked him what he had been doing in my yard. He said my neighbours had called him to come and alter my sprinkler system. He said the sprinkler system was going off every day and they weren't happy so they had called him in to reprogram my sprinkler system and so that it goes off just two days a week and at a different time. WHAT!!! I was furious!
I said to the man that I hadn't authorised him to touch anything on my property and that he was trespassing and had no right to touch anything to do with my sprinkler system or to come onto my property without my approval. He said well my neighbours had asked him to so he has assumed that I had asked them to get him to do it. He then left.
I was so angry, just so angry. My neighbours are a nightmare. They are like the street police. They think they own everybody elses property, they seem to think they have a right to do and say whatever they wish.
I went to my neighbour who was out pottering in her garden and told her that I know she probably did that with good intentions but she had no right to send somebody onto my property and if she had a problem then she should have rang my doorbell and I would have fixed the problem. She then started screaming "Your f...ing sprinklers have been going off at midnight and waking me up....." she went on and on and on with foul language. I ended up walking off and telling her she was very rude and needed to get a life. She then came and rang my doorbell and I was inside on the phone. I asked my son to go out and tell whoever it was that I was on the phone and would be there soon. When I got out there, she as having a go at my son, going on and on and I told him to go inside. She then said she came to apologise as it was not appropriate for her to do that. She continued to go on and on then about other things and I again ended up asking her to leave my property and get a life and went back inside. I ended up calling security and lodging a complaint about them.
These women constantly come into my house and use my hose, my son will be outside climbing a tree, our tree, on our property and she tells him to get out and not ruin the garden! OUR GARDEN! If she doesn't like the plants in my garden, she will come and plant new ones! They are a pair of sisters, in their late 60's maybe. They are both never married, have no other family, no children and are just nasty miserable old women.
To get rid of my frustration I went to the gym and boy did I have a big workout, LOL. Maybe I need to have an altercation with them every day, LOL.
Thanks for listening and letting me vent.
The day started with me waking up a little later than usual. My son was still asleep. Being school holidays I do let him sleep in as he is growing and needs his sleep.
I was downstairs in my bra and underpants (yes a bit too much information, LOL. And yes, a really scary sight!) and I looked outside into my backyard and there was a man. Wandering around in my yard, wearing some sort of yellow jacket that trades people seem to wear in Australia. I was mortified. I wasn't scared... as I do live in a gated community, which is very safe and we have security people at the gates who have to let everybody in, so I know he was a tradesman (by the yellow jacket) and therefore had been let in by security for some reason. He seemed to be doing something in my garden.
I ran upstairs to finish getting dressed and then proceeded out in front of my house where he as in his truck, which was parked over my drive way. I said good morning and asked him what he had been doing in my yard. He said my neighbours had called him to come and alter my sprinkler system. He said the sprinkler system was going off every day and they weren't happy so they had called him in to reprogram my sprinkler system and so that it goes off just two days a week and at a different time. WHAT!!! I was furious!
I said to the man that I hadn't authorised him to touch anything on my property and that he was trespassing and had no right to touch anything to do with my sprinkler system or to come onto my property without my approval. He said well my neighbours had asked him to so he has assumed that I had asked them to get him to do it. He then left.
I was so angry, just so angry. My neighbours are a nightmare. They are like the street police. They think they own everybody elses property, they seem to think they have a right to do and say whatever they wish.
I went to my neighbour who was out pottering in her garden and told her that I know she probably did that with good intentions but she had no right to send somebody onto my property and if she had a problem then she should have rang my doorbell and I would have fixed the problem. She then started screaming "Your f...ing sprinklers have been going off at midnight and waking me up....." she went on and on and on with foul language. I ended up walking off and telling her she was very rude and needed to get a life. She then came and rang my doorbell and I was inside on the phone. I asked my son to go out and tell whoever it was that I was on the phone and would be there soon. When I got out there, she as having a go at my son, going on and on and I told him to go inside. She then said she came to apologise as it was not appropriate for her to do that. She continued to go on and on then about other things and I again ended up asking her to leave my property and get a life and went back inside. I ended up calling security and lodging a complaint about them.
These women constantly come into my house and use my hose, my son will be outside climbing a tree, our tree, on our property and she tells him to get out and not ruin the garden! OUR GARDEN! If she doesn't like the plants in my garden, she will come and plant new ones! They are a pair of sisters, in their late 60's maybe. They are both never married, have no other family, no children and are just nasty miserable old women.
To get rid of my frustration I went to the gym and boy did I have a big workout, LOL. Maybe I need to have an altercation with them every day, LOL.
Thanks for listening and letting me vent.
Sep 25, 2011
Chia Seeds
I am thrilled that I found these tiny little seeds. I have been adding Chia seeds to my protein shakes and sprinkle them on my salad every day.
Chia seeds (also called Salvia) are fantastic for weight loss apparently as well as many other health benefits, including being very high in Omega 3. They are known as natures complete super food.
Chia Seeds have...
8 times more omega-3s than salmon
5 times more calcium than whole milk
15 times more magnesium than broccoli
3 times more antioxidants than blueberries
3 times more iron than spinach
7 times more vitamin C than an orange
2 times more potassium than bananas
more fibre than flax seed
more protein than soy
good source of B vitamins and the bone building mineral combination of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, boron, and copper rich source of the antioxidants chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and flavonol glycosides.
They are a complete source of protein, providing all the essential amino acids in an easily digestible form. They are also a fabulous source of soluble fibre. Like flax, chia is highly 'hydrophilic' - the seeds absorb water and create a type of gel. They can hold 9 to 12 times their weight in water and they absorb it very rapidly, in less than 10 minutes. They are a fantastic thickening agent, so can be added to soups or sauces to thicken, they can also be sprinkled over salads. They can be added to smoothies or any drinks or liquids.
I add some chia seeds to my son's cereal in the morning so he gets all of the health benefits and doesn't even know they're there. Chia seed's don't have any taste, so they can easily be added to things, particularly for children and they won't even know they are there. I don't know if any particular brand is better than another. We have an organic brand of Chia Seeds, but there are many out there.
There are so many health benefits of these seeds, just to many to list. So I have included a couple of videos below that have great information and many of the health benefits of Chia seeds. You can also read more about them here.
Chia seeds (also called Salvia) are fantastic for weight loss apparently as well as many other health benefits, including being very high in Omega 3. They are known as natures complete super food.
Chia Seeds have...
8 times more omega-3s than salmon
5 times more calcium than whole milk
15 times more magnesium than broccoli
3 times more antioxidants than blueberries
3 times more iron than spinach
7 times more vitamin C than an orange
2 times more potassium than bananas
more fibre than flax seed
more protein than soy
good source of B vitamins and the bone building mineral combination of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, boron, and copper rich source of the antioxidants chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and flavonol glycosides.
They are a complete source of protein, providing all the essential amino acids in an easily digestible form. They are also a fabulous source of soluble fibre. Like flax, chia is highly 'hydrophilic' - the seeds absorb water and create a type of gel. They can hold 9 to 12 times their weight in water and they absorb it very rapidly, in less than 10 minutes. They are a fantastic thickening agent, so can be added to soups or sauces to thicken, they can also be sprinkled over salads. They can be added to smoothies or any drinks or liquids.
I add some chia seeds to my son's cereal in the morning so he gets all of the health benefits and doesn't even know they're there. Chia seed's don't have any taste, so they can easily be added to things, particularly for children and they won't even know they are there. I don't know if any particular brand is better than another. We have an organic brand of Chia Seeds, but there are many out there.
There are so many health benefits of these seeds, just to many to list. So I have included a couple of videos below that have great information and many of the health benefits of Chia seeds. You can also read more about them here.
Sep 23, 2011
Bloggers Choice Awards
I would love to get my votes up in the Bloggers Choice Awards. Can all of my followers please please vote for me.
To vote just click on the link below...
Thank you so much in advance
To vote just click on the link below...
Thank you so much in advance
Sep 22, 2011
Seeing Results
I was really excited today. My mother has been away on vacation for the last couple of weeks so I have not seen her since I started on this 12 week transformation challenge.
I popped around to her place this afternoon and the first thing she said was "Wow, look how much weight you have lost". I was so excited. It has only been two weeks (well almost two weeks), actually it's been 12 days to be exact. I haven't lost a lot in kg's but I know I have lost quite a lot in cm's, well a lot for 12 days. But the exciting thing was my mum is the only person I have seen who doesn't see me on an almost basis since I have started.
It feels so great to see and feel the results of my hard work. I have been eating the 6 meals a day as instructed. I actually eat a lot more than I did before oddly enough and I have been exercising every day. Not crazy, but an hour a day alternating between cardio and resistance and it's just falling off.
Woo Hoo!
I popped around to her place this afternoon and the first thing she said was "Wow, look how much weight you have lost". I was so excited. It has only been two weeks (well almost two weeks), actually it's been 12 days to be exact. I haven't lost a lot in kg's but I know I have lost quite a lot in cm's, well a lot for 12 days. But the exciting thing was my mum is the only person I have seen who doesn't see me on an almost basis since I have started.
It feels so great to see and feel the results of my hard work. I have been eating the 6 meals a day as instructed. I actually eat a lot more than I did before oddly enough and I have been exercising every day. Not crazy, but an hour a day alternating between cardio and resistance and it's just falling off.
Woo Hoo!
Sep 21, 2011
Junk Food Ad's
Is it just me or when you are on a diet all you seem to see on TV is ad's for junk food.
I have not eaten McDonald's in over two years. I remember when it was... it was at an airport as we were waiting for a plane. We just grabbed the McDonald's at the airport before boarding the plane. So this is not something that we eat often, it's not something that I ever crave, not something that I ever had a desire to eat! Until NOW!
As I write this, there is an ad for blocks of chocolate, light fluffy chocolate filled with bubbles! What prompted me to hop online and write this post was a McDonald's ad! I suddenly got hungry and wanted a McFlurry or whatever it was they were advertising. I have never had a McFlurry! Never wanted a McFlurry. Until now that is... now I want a McFlurry, why? Not because I will like the McFlurry, not because I actually want a McFlurry, it's because I am not allowed or supposed to have a McFlurry!
Now I could head out to McDonald's and get myself a McFlurry. Nobody would know, nobody but myself. I will not be doing that as the only person that will suffer is myself. But I am just surprised how many ads there are on TV about food and junk food and I don't normally notice them. Chocolate, KFC, McDonald's, Red Rooster, Hungry Jack's, Pizza, Pizza and more Pizza (Pizza Hut, Eagle Boys, Dominos), more chocolate, ice cream, Subway. Then the Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig comes on straight after the mouth watering KFC chicken fillet burger ad to try and sway you away from the junk in the previous ad and into their program, LOL.
There is the odd ad for apples or mandarins or bananas, but not many, it's always for junk food! So annoying.
That's my vent for the night, thank you for listening. I will continue to watch my show and continue to ignore those ad's for yummy looking things, that are not good for me, that never actually look like they do in the ad when you get them in the shop or restaurant anyway.
Does anybody else notice how many food ad's there are on TV?
I have not eaten McDonald's in over two years. I remember when it was... it was at an airport as we were waiting for a plane. We just grabbed the McDonald's at the airport before boarding the plane. So this is not something that we eat often, it's not something that I ever crave, not something that I ever had a desire to eat! Until NOW!
As I write this, there is an ad for blocks of chocolate, light fluffy chocolate filled with bubbles! What prompted me to hop online and write this post was a McDonald's ad! I suddenly got hungry and wanted a McFlurry or whatever it was they were advertising. I have never had a McFlurry! Never wanted a McFlurry. Until now that is... now I want a McFlurry, why? Not because I will like the McFlurry, not because I actually want a McFlurry, it's because I am not allowed or supposed to have a McFlurry!
Now I could head out to McDonald's and get myself a McFlurry. Nobody would know, nobody but myself. I will not be doing that as the only person that will suffer is myself. But I am just surprised how many ads there are on TV about food and junk food and I don't normally notice them. Chocolate, KFC, McDonald's, Red Rooster, Hungry Jack's, Pizza, Pizza and more Pizza (Pizza Hut, Eagle Boys, Dominos), more chocolate, ice cream, Subway. Then the Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig comes on straight after the mouth watering KFC chicken fillet burger ad to try and sway you away from the junk in the previous ad and into their program, LOL.
There is the odd ad for apples or mandarins or bananas, but not many, it's always for junk food! So annoying.
That's my vent for the night, thank you for listening. I will continue to watch my show and continue to ignore those ad's for yummy looking things, that are not good for me, that never actually look like they do in the ad when you get them in the shop or restaurant anyway.
Does anybody else notice how many food ad's there are on TV?
Sep 19, 2011
Baggy Pants
I don't have my next weigh in and measurements for another 2 and a half weeks. For the challenge, I had my weight in and all of my measurements on the first day, then we are done again at 4 weeks, 8 weeks and then finally at the end of the 12th week. I do mean to post my starting measurements here but I have not received them from my trainer. I am taking my challenge book to the gym tomorrow so I will get all of them then and reveal them to all of you tomorrow.
I know I have lost weight. Well I had better have! It's 9 days today and I have been sticking to the eating plan and also exercising every day. I haven't been to the gym every day but have exercised. If I don't go to the gym then I go for a big walk. How do I know I've lost weight? Well my pants are getting a lot more room in them. My jeans and shorts were getting so tight that I was hanging over the top. Yes, the classic muffin top. Well the muffin top has gone! Completely gone! So that is very exciting. Now I am not any where near finished yet. Just because the muffin top has gone, if I put on a size smaller jeans then I would have the muffin top. So until I get down to my desired, healthy weight then I will not be celebrating! But I am happy, happy that there are results for all of my hard work so far.
I will update tomorrow with my starting measurements.
I know I have lost weight. Well I had better have! It's 9 days today and I have been sticking to the eating plan and also exercising every day. I haven't been to the gym every day but have exercised. If I don't go to the gym then I go for a big walk. How do I know I've lost weight? Well my pants are getting a lot more room in them. My jeans and shorts were getting so tight that I was hanging over the top. Yes, the classic muffin top. Well the muffin top has gone! Completely gone! So that is very exciting. Now I am not any where near finished yet. Just because the muffin top has gone, if I put on a size smaller jeans then I would have the muffin top. So until I get down to my desired, healthy weight then I will not be celebrating! But I am happy, happy that there are results for all of my hard work so far.
I will update tomorrow with my starting measurements.
Sep 18, 2011
Sunday Breakfast
I made breakfast for the family this morning and then breakfast for myself. On the menu for the family was Mickey Mouse pancakes. We love Disney in our house, Disneyaholics I guess you could call us!
They turned out perfect little mickey heads.
For myself I made an egg white omelette with one egg yolk, filled with Spinach, Feta and Radish Sprouts.
It was delicious (yes not as good as the pancakes would have been, but still good). I had this a few hours after my regular protein and frozen berry shake.
What a perfect Sunday Morning breakfast!
I made the pancake batter with flour, sugar, eggs, butter and milk, just a plain simple recipe.
Heated up the pan and added the cute little pancake rings that we got at Walt Disney World last year.
They turned out perfect little mickey heads.
That was had with butter and maple syrup, YUM.
For myself I made an egg white omelette with one egg yolk, filled with Spinach, Feta and Radish Sprouts.
It was delicious (yes not as good as the pancakes would have been, but still good). I had this a few hours after my regular protein and frozen berry shake.
What a perfect Sunday Morning breakfast!
Protein Shakes
Day 9 of my challenge has started with my usual protein shake with frozen organic blueberries and strawberries, some Acai powder and some cacao powder. Yum. I have this three times a day as per my eating plan and it really is delicious.
I was worried about having these protein powders that it said I was to have on my eating plan. Whilst I do like sugar, (I wouldn't be over weight if my diet didn't contribute to my weight gain in some way), but my eating in general isn't as bad as it could be. In my household we rarely eat processed foods and a majority of my diet is fresh organic food. We tend not to buy something that has numbers in it and virtually never foods with preservatives, additives and/or colours (I can't say never as we do eat out at restaurants so I can not say what they use). But at home, never. My major problem is the 100% lack of exercise, doing about 2000 steps of a recommended 10,000 steps a day.
Anyway, when I was told to have protein powder 3 times a day, I asked if I could have anything else that was more natural, I really didn't want to start taking something, that was filled with additives and unnatural things. My trainer could not help me, she looked a little blank actually, so I told her not to worry. When I left the gym I called my brother. My brother is the go to guy for all things healthy. He is the epitome of a healthy person. Eats an all natural, organic, additive free diet, very fit, exercises regularly. He has studied nutrition and he is just a very very healthy person. So I asked him about protein shakes and what they were wanting me to have at the gym. He told me about a great protein powder which I could get from my local organic supermarket and this is what I have been having for the last week and I really like it. Well it took a little getting used to, but when I filled my blender with frozen berries and the powder, it is just like a berry smoothie and really quite delicious!
I was worried about having these protein powders that it said I was to have on my eating plan. Whilst I do like sugar, (I wouldn't be over weight if my diet didn't contribute to my weight gain in some way), but my eating in general isn't as bad as it could be. In my household we rarely eat processed foods and a majority of my diet is fresh organic food. We tend not to buy something that has numbers in it and virtually never foods with preservatives, additives and/or colours (I can't say never as we do eat out at restaurants so I can not say what they use). But at home, never. My major problem is the 100% lack of exercise, doing about 2000 steps of a recommended 10,000 steps a day.
Anyway, when I was told to have protein powder 3 times a day, I asked if I could have anything else that was more natural, I really didn't want to start taking something, that was filled with additives and unnatural things. My trainer could not help me, she looked a little blank actually, so I told her not to worry. When I left the gym I called my brother. My brother is the go to guy for all things healthy. He is the epitome of a healthy person. Eats an all natural, organic, additive free diet, very fit, exercises regularly. He has studied nutrition and he is just a very very healthy person. So I asked him about protein shakes and what they were wanting me to have at the gym. He told me about a great protein powder which I could get from my local organic supermarket and this is what I have been having for the last week and I really like it. Well it took a little getting used to, but when I filled my blender with frozen berries and the powder, it is just like a berry smoothie and really quite delicious!
I have the Vanilla flavour as I can add different things to it. I had the chocolate in my basket to start with but decided I may not always want chocolate flavour so changed to the vanilla. Next time I'm actually going to get the natural flavour to try.
Sep 15, 2011
Ah The Pain
After my first two days at the gym I am still in agony. I have realised that after my session on Tuesday with the trainer and being so very sore in my legs and stomach (I have realised I must have virtually no core muscles, LOL). But I didn't rest, I'm determined to win this challenge so off to the gym I went yesterday.
By last night I was in agony. Every step was just a killer, getting up off the chair was almost impossible, moving hurt my lower stomach muscles so much. I had a wheat pack on my stomach and on my legs. I then decided to go and lie in a bath with some Epsom salts. That was absolute bliss, just sitting in the bath was giving so much relieve. After a while I dragged myself out.
I awoke this morning even worse. I thought that after a big session that the next day you can be sore, but I didn't realise it can get worse over 48 hours! (but it can, I have now read). So I contacted my trainer this morning as I was due to see her today at the gym. I explained that I was so unbelievably sore and she said that I really should rest today as the muscles do need time to rest when they are really sore.
I really didn't want to do no exercise today so I have just been for a light walk. Every step was painful, but I pushed through it and did about 45 minutes.
As the saying goes... "no pain, no gain". Well with all of the pain I'm experiencing, there had better be a great deal of gain, LOL.
By last night I was in agony. Every step was just a killer, getting up off the chair was almost impossible, moving hurt my lower stomach muscles so much. I had a wheat pack on my stomach and on my legs. I then decided to go and lie in a bath with some Epsom salts. That was absolute bliss, just sitting in the bath was giving so much relieve. After a while I dragged myself out.
I awoke this morning even worse. I thought that after a big session that the next day you can be sore, but I didn't realise it can get worse over 48 hours! (but it can, I have now read). So I contacted my trainer this morning as I was due to see her today at the gym. I explained that I was so unbelievably sore and she said that I really should rest today as the muscles do need time to rest when they are really sore.
I really didn't want to do no exercise today so I have just been for a light walk. Every step was painful, but I pushed through it and did about 45 minutes.
As the saying goes... "no pain, no gain". Well with all of the pain I'm experiencing, there had better be a great deal of gain, LOL.
Sep 14, 2011
My Goals
I just saw a quote "Goals are dreams in writing". I thought to my self "I have not set my goals down on paper" (well this isn't paper but close enough, LOL). I have them in my head, I know where I am headed but writing down my goals is really something that I should do as I embark on this new journey.
So here are my new goals.
1. To get into a size 10 (size 6 USA) - I have so many brand new clothes in size 10, still with the tags on, that I purchased before I tore my artery. Since then I have packed on a whopping 18kgs (about 40 pounds) in the last 12-18 months so. So I have my new wardrobe for when I lose the weight.
2. To come off blood pressure medication - I would really love to be medication free!
3. To have more energy - I have so little energy.
4. To run the 4km run in the Mothers Day Classic - Up until now, I always do the 4km walk every year in the Mothers Day Classic (my blog about it here). I have always wanted to do the 8km walk instead but next year, I am planning on being so fit that I would love to participate in the 4km run!
These are my main goals. Yes of course I have goals/aspirations, that I want to look better, feel better, become healthier, fitter, reduce my risk of stroke, heart attack, diabetes, be a whole new me but they will all be a result if my above goals are achieved.
What are your goals?
So here are my new goals.
1. To get into a size 10 (size 6 USA) - I have so many brand new clothes in size 10, still with the tags on, that I purchased before I tore my artery. Since then I have packed on a whopping 18kgs (about 40 pounds) in the last 12-18 months so. So I have my new wardrobe for when I lose the weight.
2. To come off blood pressure medication - I would really love to be medication free!
3. To have more energy - I have so little energy.
4. To run the 4km run in the Mothers Day Classic - Up until now, I always do the 4km walk every year in the Mothers Day Classic (my blog about it here). I have always wanted to do the 8km walk instead but next year, I am planning on being so fit that I would love to participate in the 4km run!
These are my main goals. Yes of course I have goals/aspirations, that I want to look better, feel better, become healthier, fitter, reduce my risk of stroke, heart attack, diabetes, be a whole new me but they will all be a result if my above goals are achieved.
What are your goals?
FTC So Far
Today is day 5 of my Fenix Transformation Challenge.
I am going to head off to the gym shortly for a cardio session. Just the bike, treadmill and elliptical (which I hate, LOL). I did more of a light weights session with my personal trainer yesterday and I have to say I am in agony today, LOL. My arms are sore and oh my legs... they are sore with every step! My legs were like jelly for hours after the workout yesterday. But I am really enjoying it. The only annoying thing is that I have to take it easy and work up to more intensive workouts thanks to my high blood pressure and the vertebral artery dissection that I suffered from last year. So I feel as if I could do more, but am restricted to not getting my heart rate over 145.
Now the diet. I am still trying to get my head around that and get it all perfect but I'm doing pretty well I think. The diet is based on Metabolic Precision and from what I have read so far, you ultimately want to eat six times a day. With three of those meals being protein shakes. You have to have protein at certain times and carbs at certain times, around exercise, which I have been sticking to well. I have the guide printed up on my fridge to keep as a guide and I haven't been hungry once. In actual fact I am eating a lot more than I usually eat! I think my metabolism has slowed down to almost nothing or is it possible to actually have a negative metabolism, LOL. If it is I think that's what I have. The exciting thing is... is that I can still have my dark chocolate! I love dark chocolate and I think if I had to remove all of my very favourite things from my diet it would be harder to stick to, but having the chocolate makes it all fine and easy to stick too. Now when I say have dark chocolate, I'm sure they don't mean have a block or two a day. I have good quality organic dark chocolate and will have just one row or two a day. So with Metabolic Precision it's all about building up your muscles to increase your metabolism and burn more fat while in the end once your muscles have built up it will increase your metabolism enough so that you don't have to exercise 7 days a week to maintain, from what I can gather so far.
So I hopped on the scales today to just have a sneak peak to see if I was losing anything. After all it's not a week yet, its the beginning of my 5th day and I have lost just over 1kg (2.2 pounds), so that is exciting and encouraging!
Sep 10, 2011
Day 1 of FTC
Today is the first day of the Fenix Transformation Challenge (FTC).
I had a setback with the trainer yesterday for my first session at the gym. When I got there and filled in the forms, as I have high blood pressure and also had the torn artery, she needs a letter from my Dr before going up my exercise plan. So rather than training yesterday, which I was hoping was my first day at the gym, we spent the 45 minutes chatting about the transformation challenge, doing my weight and also my measurements.
I was absolutely mortified to see that my weight was now 88.7kgs (195 pounds). I was only 90kgs (198 pounds) when I gave birth to my son. How on earth did I get this big! Anyway I will not be this big for long, I can't wait to reveal my results in 12 weeks time. I don't have my measurements as she didn't give those to me and there were so many, I just can't remember. My next session at the Gym is Monday, so I will ask her for those then so I can share them here.
When I hopped on the scales I did let out a little swear word as I did truly get a shock. She did say "well you do have your shoes on, they add weight, about 700grams (1.5pounds). I said "oh come on, LOL. That means I still weigh 88kgs (194 pounds), that's still disgusting). Anyway I am so embarrassed, I will not be revealing my initial weight to anyone.
I have just had a thought though. When I win this challenge and win the $5000, my weight will be revealed, my starting weight will be revealed! I am hoping that won't bother me as much once I am 28.7kgs lighter. My initial goal was 20kgs, but now seeing that I am 8.7kgs heavier than I thought, I am now having to set a new goal. I don't know that I will get the whole 28.7kgs off in 12 weeks, people do lose 20 to 30 kgs so it is possible. I will see how I go.
Anyway this morning is my first day. As I am not able to train at the gym until I receive clearance from my Dr (which I will get, Monday), I am off for a walk today. Have to get moving and start my meal plan. My first meal this morning was a protein shake. Then I am off for my walk and they out for breakfast with friends, I will be armed with what I can and can not eat, so I don't break the program on the first day.
Will update tonight with more details on my eating plan.
I had a setback with the trainer yesterday for my first session at the gym. When I got there and filled in the forms, as I have high blood pressure and also had the torn artery, she needs a letter from my Dr before going up my exercise plan. So rather than training yesterday, which I was hoping was my first day at the gym, we spent the 45 minutes chatting about the transformation challenge, doing my weight and also my measurements.
I was absolutely mortified to see that my weight was now 88.7kgs (195 pounds). I was only 90kgs (198 pounds) when I gave birth to my son. How on earth did I get this big! Anyway I will not be this big for long, I can't wait to reveal my results in 12 weeks time. I don't have my measurements as she didn't give those to me and there were so many, I just can't remember. My next session at the Gym is Monday, so I will ask her for those then so I can share them here.
When I hopped on the scales I did let out a little swear word as I did truly get a shock. She did say "well you do have your shoes on, they add weight, about 700grams (1.5pounds). I said "oh come on, LOL. That means I still weigh 88kgs (194 pounds), that's still disgusting). Anyway I am so embarrassed, I will not be revealing my initial weight to anyone.
I have just had a thought though. When I win this challenge and win the $5000, my weight will be revealed, my starting weight will be revealed! I am hoping that won't bother me as much once I am 28.7kgs lighter. My initial goal was 20kgs, but now seeing that I am 8.7kgs heavier than I thought, I am now having to set a new goal. I don't know that I will get the whole 28.7kgs off in 12 weeks, people do lose 20 to 30 kgs so it is possible. I will see how I go.
Anyway this morning is my first day. As I am not able to train at the gym until I receive clearance from my Dr (which I will get, Monday), I am off for a walk today. Have to get moving and start my meal plan. My first meal this morning was a protein shake. Then I am off for my walk and they out for breakfast with friends, I will be armed with what I can and can not eat, so I don't break the program on the first day.
Will update tonight with more details on my eating plan.
Sep 8, 2011
Tomorrow
It's still two days until the big 12 week challenge begins on Saturday but tomorrow is going to be exciting.
Tomorrow is my first appointment at the Gym after joining up a couple of days ago. I will meet my personal trainer for the first time and she will do my program for me and do my before photos and measurements for the challenge (eeekkk, not looking forward to that).
So tonight I am getting out my work out clothes, get my outfit all organised. My gym clothes that have been getting dusty up in my closet for well over a year how. I have just had a terrifying thought! What if they don't fit, last time I wore them I was 10kgs (22 pounds) lighter! Oh well, they won't be tight for long and there isn't any point in spending money on new gym clothes when I will only need them at that size for a month or two. So I will be in skin tight gym clothes, guaranteed that I will have a rather large muffin top (such a bad look!) but there isn't anything I can do. So whilst technically the challenge doesn't start until Saturday, I will be starting tomorrow with my first gym workout!
I will let all of you know tomorrow night how it all went. I will probably be very sore, LOL
Tomorrow is my first appointment at the Gym after joining up a couple of days ago. I will meet my personal trainer for the first time and she will do my program for me and do my before photos and measurements for the challenge (eeekkk, not looking forward to that).
So tonight I am getting out my work out clothes, get my outfit all organised. My gym clothes that have been getting dusty up in my closet for well over a year how. I have just had a terrifying thought! What if they don't fit, last time I wore them I was 10kgs (22 pounds) lighter! Oh well, they won't be tight for long and there isn't any point in spending money on new gym clothes when I will only need them at that size for a month or two. So I will be in skin tight gym clothes, guaranteed that I will have a rather large muffin top (such a bad look!) but there isn't anything I can do. So whilst technically the challenge doesn't start until Saturday, I will be starting tomorrow with my first gym workout!
I will let all of you know tomorrow night how it all went. I will probably be very sore, LOL
Sep 7, 2011
Getting Ready...
After joining the gym yesterday and signing up for the Fenix 12 week Transformation Challenge, the next step was being assigned a trainer and getting an appointment set up.
My new trainer called me today and we have set up an appointment for Friday. There we are going to do my before photos, measurements, my diet, get my diary, get my challenge tshirt and do my workout program. I can't wait. I am actually really getting quite excited about this. I know it's going to be hard work, but i am actually quite driven to win that $5000. If I don't win I won't be disappointed as I will have the new me, a fitter, healthier, happier me and that is prize enough, but really, $5000 wouldn't go astray. I will need that money to buy myself a new wardrobe as none of my current clothes will fit me!
I will update you all on Friday after my meeting at the gym with my trainer. I will reveal my measurements (yes I will be embarrassed and mortified to reveal those, but the upside is that I will get to reveal my amazing measurements in 12 weeks at the end of the challenge).
My new trainer called me today and we have set up an appointment for Friday. There we are going to do my before photos, measurements, my diet, get my diary, get my challenge tshirt and do my workout program. I can't wait. I am actually really getting quite excited about this. I know it's going to be hard work, but i am actually quite driven to win that $5000. If I don't win I won't be disappointed as I will have the new me, a fitter, healthier, happier me and that is prize enough, but really, $5000 wouldn't go astray. I will need that money to buy myself a new wardrobe as none of my current clothes will fit me!
I will update you all on Friday after my meeting at the gym with my trainer. I will reveal my measurements (yes I will be embarrassed and mortified to reveal those, but the upside is that I will get to reveal my amazing measurements in 12 weeks at the end of the challenge).
Sep 6, 2011
I Did It
Today I joined the gym. Yes my days of indecision, will I.... won't I. Well that is the sort of unmotivated attitude that got me in this overweight mess in the first place.
See I don't eat really badly. Yes I love dark chocolate. But I don't drink soft drink (soda, pop), I don't have a fridge/freezer filled with ice cream, pantry filled with chips (crisps). I don't eat lots of fast food or fried food. It's my portion sizes and my complete lack of movement! And possibly not eating enough for so many years that my metabolism is totally dormant. In my house we always eat whole grain bread, and not wheat bread, organic ancient grain bread filled with whole grains and seeds. We eat organic brown rice, we eat organic spelt pasta (and brown, not white), lots of fresh vegies and fruit.
Eg: for breakfast this morning I had a banana, a boiled egg, a slice of ancient grain toast and (yes some butter, but come on, I can have some luxuries, LOL). For lunch I had a rice cake with half an avocado and a slice of lite jarlsberg cheese and I have had a row of dark organic chocolate. That's it all day. I now have turkey breast in the oven for dinner which we will have with steamed vegetables.
So... my biggest problem is my lack of movement (and my diet to a degree, it's not all just exercise). What are we supposed to do each day? 10,000 steps? I have probably done about 2000 today. Sitting at the computer working and now writing my blog, LOL.
Today I marched into Fenix Fitness gym near where I live and joined the gym. I get three personal training sessions with that to start and can purchase more. But what I did sign up for along with my membership was the...
See I don't eat really badly. Yes I love dark chocolate. But I don't drink soft drink (soda, pop), I don't have a fridge/freezer filled with ice cream, pantry filled with chips (crisps). I don't eat lots of fast food or fried food. It's my portion sizes and my complete lack of movement! And possibly not eating enough for so many years that my metabolism is totally dormant. In my house we always eat whole grain bread, and not wheat bread, organic ancient grain bread filled with whole grains and seeds. We eat organic brown rice, we eat organic spelt pasta (and brown, not white), lots of fresh vegies and fruit.
Eg: for breakfast this morning I had a banana, a boiled egg, a slice of ancient grain toast and (yes some butter, but come on, I can have some luxuries, LOL). For lunch I had a rice cake with half an avocado and a slice of lite jarlsberg cheese and I have had a row of dark organic chocolate. That's it all day. I now have turkey breast in the oven for dinner which we will have with steamed vegetables.
So... my biggest problem is my lack of movement (and my diet to a degree, it's not all just exercise). What are we supposed to do each day? 10,000 steps? I have probably done about 2000 today. Sitting at the computer working and now writing my blog, LOL.
Today I marched into Fenix Fitness gym near where I live and joined the gym. I get three personal training sessions with that to start and can purchase more. But what I did sign up for along with my membership was the...
The challenge is for 12 weeks. We get assigned a trainer and there are group training sessions with others participating in the challenge. We have to have our before photos done and measurements before Saturday when the challenge starts. We have to submit a little essay about why we have participated in the challenge and what we would like to get out of it. I don't know all of the details completely yet as I have not met with my trainer, but I believe we also get a food diary of some description.
So I will be posting regularly about my progress. I am hoping that over the 12 weeks that I will develop new habits and rid myself of some of my old habits that have me in the place that I am currently in. You can also win $5000 if you win the challenge, so yes, I will be aiming for that, but my main goal is to form new habits, the habit of regular exercise mainly. To get my blood pressure down and ultimately get off my blood pressure medication. Feel more energetic and become a much healthier happier me!
So wish me luck. (well I won't need luck as it isn't about luck, LOL)
Sep 4, 2011
12 Week Transformation Challenge
This coming Saturday starts a 12 week transformation challenge at a gym just up the road from me. I know of two people doing it, another mother from my son's school and a friend of mine's sister. I would really love to do this. I know it will be hard, but they provide a menu plan, which is apparently a eat 6 times a day plan. You exercise 6 times a week, 3 days of weights and 3 days of cardio.
I don't know what is stopping me from signing up. Maybe it's the possibility of failure, the embarrassment of being so unfit when I start or that I won't be able to do it. They say that the 12 weeks is what you need to change a habit or pick up a new habit. So that by the end you will have your exercise habit formed and a new eating plan formed. It is apparently a new way of life, a makeover of mind, body and spirit.
I will need to sign up this week. It's $125 to do it and you must be a member of the gym. Will I do it? I really should!
Sep 3, 2011
Hi Everyone
Well it's been a long time between posts.
I have arrived back at my blog to find a new interface on blogger so am trying to find my way around it. I am posting on what looks like a totally new screen so I hope it looks the same once I publish the post. How does everybody else like the new blogger interface?
I am about to get seriously get back into my journey to getting healthy. I will share all about it very soon.
I have arrived back at my blog to find a new interface on blogger so am trying to find my way around it. I am posting on what looks like a totally new screen so I hope it looks the same once I publish the post. How does everybody else like the new blogger interface?
I am about to get seriously get back into my journey to getting healthy. I will share all about it very soon.
May 8, 2011
My Walk for Breast Cancer Research.
How was everybodies Mothers Day? I hope all of you had a wonderful day, were pampered and spoilt.
I was up early on Mothers Day like I have been for the last few years. Every year we go in the Mothers Day Classic walk for breast cancer research. The event is run (and walked) all around Australia. There is a lot of information about the even in my previous blog post.
So up at 5.30am to get ready for the walk. I had to pin all of our numbers to our tops.
We set off at about 6.45 where we were being taken by bus over to the event. We go every year in a large group and we all meet up, walk or run, then come back to a hotel near by and have breakfast. We arrived at the walk at about 7.30am and watched the runners take off first. They had somebody there getting the crowd to warm up.
It is such a fabulous atmosphere. There are families, children in prams, people in wheelchairs, people recovering from breast cancer, people walking for a family member who has lost their life to breast cancer. There are people dressed in funny costumes, the is lots and lots of pink. Pink as far as the eye can see.
I do have to say that there is one thing and one thing only that I can not stand about this event and this is what they are.....
Do they need any explanation? I don't like public toilets at the best of times, but one thing that really really makes me grosse is port-a-loos. I was that desperate to go to the toilet at one stage but I just couldn't go, I just couldn't go into a port-a-loo. So I held on until we got back to the hotel and ran for my life, LOL (only just made it too).
So we participated in the walk, not the run. It was just fantastic. We headed off at about 8.30am with thousands of other people.
It was just such a fantastic atmosphere but at the same time very emotional. There were times when I would find myself tearing up when reading a tribute that somebody had pinned to their back and I would be walking behind reading. There was also a number of tribute walls which also were very moving.
The whole walk was just so fun. Walking around seeing so many different costumes, from fairies, strange pink outfits to a kangaroo.
Another spectacular thing was walking alongside the beach with the sun rising above. Just magical and a perfect way to spend Mothers Day with my family and friends.
We crossed the finish line and we all got a goody bag, a medal and a bottle of water. The event was very well organised, there were food stalls, jumping castles for the kids, face painters, a band and entertainers in the massive park right on the beach.
All in all it was a really lovely morning, I really enjoyed spending the morning at this very special event with my Mum and my family and many of my wonderful friends.
I can't wait until the event next year!
Thanks for sharing my journey.....
I was up early on Mothers Day like I have been for the last few years. Every year we go in the Mothers Day Classic walk for breast cancer research. The event is run (and walked) all around Australia. There is a lot of information about the even in my previous blog post.
So up at 5.30am to get ready for the walk. I had to pin all of our numbers to our tops.
We set off at about 6.45 where we were being taken by bus over to the event. We go every year in a large group and we all meet up, walk or run, then come back to a hotel near by and have breakfast. We arrived at the walk at about 7.30am and watched the runners take off first. They had somebody there getting the crowd to warm up.
 |
| Warm up guy, getting the runners warmed up. |
 |
| Off they go.... |
 |
| Mum's, Dad's, Kids, Grandma's, Grandpa's, Prams, it was for everybody. |
It is such a fabulous atmosphere. There are families, children in prams, people in wheelchairs, people recovering from breast cancer, people walking for a family member who has lost their life to breast cancer. There are people dressed in funny costumes, the is lots and lots of pink. Pink as far as the eye can see.
 |
| Pink angels in their halos |
 |
| Crowds of pink everywhere. |
I do have to say that there is one thing and one thing only that I can not stand about this event and this is what they are.....
 |
| Port-a-loos.... YUK |
Do they need any explanation? I don't like public toilets at the best of times, but one thing that really really makes me grosse is port-a-loos. I was that desperate to go to the toilet at one stage but I just couldn't go, I just couldn't go into a port-a-loo. So I held on until we got back to the hotel and ran for my life, LOL (only just made it too).
So we participated in the walk, not the run. It was just fantastic. We headed off at about 8.30am with thousands of other people.
 |
| We are at the start for the walk... waiting.... waiting... |
 |
| Off we go... Under the start line. |
It was just such a fantastic atmosphere but at the same time very emotional. There were times when I would find myself tearing up when reading a tribute that somebody had pinned to their back and I would be walking behind reading. There was also a number of tribute walls which also were very moving.
 |
| One of the tribute walls |
 |
| Close up of the tribute wall. |
 |
| Another touching tribute. |
The whole walk was just so fun. Walking around seeing so many different costumes, from fairies, strange pink outfits to a kangaroo.
 |
| The person in that suit must have been so hot! |
Another spectacular thing was walking alongside the beach with the sun rising above. Just magical and a perfect way to spend Mothers Day with my family and friends.
 |
| Sun rising as we walk. |
 |
| The Beach we walked alongside. |
We crossed the finish line and we all got a goody bag, a medal and a bottle of water. The event was very well organised, there were food stalls, jumping castles for the kids, face painters, a band and entertainers in the massive park right on the beach.
 |
| The band played. |
 |
| After the race, just enjoying the morning. |
All in all it was a really lovely morning, I really enjoyed spending the morning at this very special event with my Mum and my family and many of my wonderful friends.
I can't wait until the event next year!
Thanks for sharing my journey.....
May 6, 2011
Top Mommy Blogs
I would love some votes in Top Mommy Blogs. You just have to click on the link to register the vote.
Thank you so much in advance.
Thank you so much in advance.
May 5, 2011
Mothers Day Classic
I am so excited about Mothers Day this weekend. Not because of the breakfast in bed (that I will not be receiving, LOL) or about my gorgeous gift my son has purchased with his own money from the Mothers Day Stall at school (I will share some of the gifts I have received in the past over the weekend).
I will be spending my Mothers Day morning doing a 4km walk, in the Mothers Day Classic. http://mothersdayclassic.com.au/ The Mothers Day Classic has become a bit of a tradition in my family. My whole family participates, including my mum, we all walk together. I have friends who also go with their families, mothers, sisters, grandmothers, children (and the odd father and husband too). It's a really fun morning, a wonderful way to spend mothers day together, walking in the sunshine (please don't rain on Sunday), alongside the beautiful beach. Unfortunately I missed the walk last year as I had torn the artery in my neck a couple of days before, so was not able to exercise, or do very much at all actually. After the walk we all head out for breakfast, my family, my friends and their families. Anybody who decides not to walk (like me last year) meets us at the restaurant for breakfast after the walk.
The Mothers Day Classic is a great cause, its actually the biggest community fundraiser for breast cancer research in Australia. Walks/Runs happen at the same time right across the country and always on Mothers Day. There are walks in every major city in Australia and in over 28 regional towns across the country. Grandmothers, Mothers, Daughters, Fathers, Grandfathers, Sons, Aunts, Uncles all walking together for a very important cause. Babies and toddlers being pushed in prams, people being pushed in wheelchairs you name it, they are participating too. More than $7.8 million has been raised from this walk/run for breast cancer foundation since the even started years ago.
It's also very touching and emotional too. You get a number to pin to your top and on that is a space for you to write the name of a person or people you are dedicating your walk to or the person you are walking for. People write loved ones or friends battling breast cancer or those who lost their battle with breast cancer. It's a very moving walk as you walk around, seeing the names of those that have had this walk dedicated to by their loved one or friend. It is a wonderful community event and something that I can highly recommend to anybody who has not heard of it before.
If you want to find a walk near you, visit http://mothersdayclassic.com.au/events for a list of where the walks/runs around Australia are. Also if you would like to find more information, register for to do the walk or run or even to make a donation to this very important cause visit http://mothersdayclassic.com.au/
I will be spending my Mothers Day morning doing a 4km walk, in the Mothers Day Classic. http://mothersdayclassic.com.au/ The Mothers Day Classic has become a bit of a tradition in my family. My whole family participates, including my mum, we all walk together. I have friends who also go with their families, mothers, sisters, grandmothers, children (and the odd father and husband too). It's a really fun morning, a wonderful way to spend mothers day together, walking in the sunshine (please don't rain on Sunday), alongside the beautiful beach. Unfortunately I missed the walk last year as I had torn the artery in my neck a couple of days before, so was not able to exercise, or do very much at all actually. After the walk we all head out for breakfast, my family, my friends and their families. Anybody who decides not to walk (like me last year) meets us at the restaurant for breakfast after the walk.
The Mothers Day Classic is a great cause, its actually the biggest community fundraiser for breast cancer research in Australia. Walks/Runs happen at the same time right across the country and always on Mothers Day. There are walks in every major city in Australia and in over 28 regional towns across the country. Grandmothers, Mothers, Daughters, Fathers, Grandfathers, Sons, Aunts, Uncles all walking together for a very important cause. Babies and toddlers being pushed in prams, people being pushed in wheelchairs you name it, they are participating too. More than $7.8 million has been raised from this walk/run for breast cancer foundation since the even started years ago.
It's also very touching and emotional too. You get a number to pin to your top and on that is a space for you to write the name of a person or people you are dedicating your walk to or the person you are walking for. People write loved ones or friends battling breast cancer or those who lost their battle with breast cancer. It's a very moving walk as you walk around, seeing the names of those that have had this walk dedicated to by their loved one or friend. It is a wonderful community event and something that I can highly recommend to anybody who has not heard of it before.
If you want to find a walk near you, visit http://mothersdayclassic.com.au/events for a list of where the walks/runs around Australia are. Also if you would like to find more information, register for to do the walk or run or even to make a donation to this very important cause visit http://mothersdayclassic.com.au/
May 4, 2011
BIG - Extreme Makeover
Gosh, I have just been watching this new show, that premiered tonight on Channel 9 (in Australia). Here's an article on the show and you can see Mick the man featured on the show tonight. Big - Extreme Makeover.
I have to say it was rather shocking to watch. This poor guy on the show was massive, just massive. For those that didn't watch the show or haven't heard of it, they say its the show for people "too big" for "The Biggest Loser"!!! Too big for the biggest loser???? "Are they kidding" I thought. Then I saw that they were not kidding.
I have to take my hat off to Mick, the guy on the show tonight. In his first 40 days he lost 40kgs (88.18lbs). Then the next two weeks he put on 18kgs (39.68lbs). 18kgs in two weeks! Boy Oh Boy that's a lot of weight.
They did some tests and found that he was only getting about two to three hours of sleep a night and this can affect weight loss. Now I did not know this. I do get a good amount of sleep each night, around 7 to 8 hours, but I did not realise that not enough sleep can effect weight loss.
As the show progressed Mick stopped losing weight, mainly because he couldn't stop eating. So they admitted him to a weight loss clinic. He was there for 4 weeks and it was amazing, the change in his attitude and his state of mind. So after 200 days, he lost 50kgs. He has a long way to go, but he is on his way. He lost enough weight to have stomach stapling. How bizarre being too big to have weight loss surgery!
I have to say that Mick was inspirational. Whilst he had ups and downs, who doesn't! He had times when he reverted to his old ways and those bad habits crept back in, but he got off the couch and kept going!
Well Done Mick and good luck with your continued weight loss!
I have to say it was rather shocking to watch. This poor guy on the show was massive, just massive. For those that didn't watch the show or haven't heard of it, they say its the show for people "too big" for "The Biggest Loser"!!! Too big for the biggest loser???? "Are they kidding" I thought. Then I saw that they were not kidding.
I have to take my hat off to Mick, the guy on the show tonight. In his first 40 days he lost 40kgs (88.18lbs). Then the next two weeks he put on 18kgs (39.68lbs). 18kgs in two weeks! Boy Oh Boy that's a lot of weight.
They did some tests and found that he was only getting about two to three hours of sleep a night and this can affect weight loss. Now I did not know this. I do get a good amount of sleep each night, around 7 to 8 hours, but I did not realise that not enough sleep can effect weight loss.
As the show progressed Mick stopped losing weight, mainly because he couldn't stop eating. So they admitted him to a weight loss clinic. He was there for 4 weeks and it was amazing, the change in his attitude and his state of mind. So after 200 days, he lost 50kgs. He has a long way to go, but he is on his way. He lost enough weight to have stomach stapling. How bizarre being too big to have weight loss surgery!
I have to say that Mick was inspirational. Whilst he had ups and downs, who doesn't! He had times when he reverted to his old ways and those bad habits crept back in, but he got off the couch and kept going!
Well Done Mick and good luck with your continued weight loss!
May 2, 2011
An Old Family Favourite
I know this is not diet food, but this is a family favourite recipe passed down through the generations of my family. When my parents got married, my dad came with this recipe. So this is something that my great grandmother used to make my grandmother, my grandmother used to make my dad and my mum made for me and I am now making for my son. My son absolutely loves it so I know it is something that he will carry on to the next generation (phew, that was a long story, LOL). Anyway I thought I would share this dish with you. It is SO easy, really a great dish for the whole family and I was going to say cheap, but it has veal in it, so not so cheap.
So the dish is called "Rice Number". That's it, just rice number. Maybe it had a fancy name once upon a time, but as long as I have known it, it's rice number.
So the ingredients..
Veal (that has been beaten out) (about 4 or 5 large pieces)
Wheatgerm (I used about a cup)
2 x Cans of Campbells Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
2 x Cans of Mushrooms in Butter
1 x 250ml Tub of Natural Yoghurt
1 to 2 Bay leaves
Paprika
Rice
Slice up the veal into small bits.
Place wheatgerm into large zip lock bag (This is obviously a modern day addition to the recipe that I have created as when my dad was young and when I was young, we didn't have zip lock bags, LOL). Place veal into the wheatgerm filled bag and seal the bag.
Move veal around until it is completely coated with veal (making sure no pieces are stuck together).
Once coated, heat a pan and add some oil. Cook veal in small batches until lightly golden brown.
Place cooked veal into baking/casserole dish.
Into large bowl or blender add chicken soup, mushrooms and yoghurt.
Blend until well combined and if in a bowl used a hand blender to mix ingredients until well combined.
Pour sauce mixture over veal and mix lightly.
Add a couple of bay leaves to the top of and press slightly. Sprinkle top with paprika.
Place in moderate oven for about one hour.
Cook some rice.
Add rice to a bowl or plate
Scoop a couple of large ladles of Rice Number over the top.
I have never tried to freeze this, so don't know if it freezes, but it is just as good the next day if stored in the fridge and then reheated.
Enjoy....
So the dish is called "Rice Number". That's it, just rice number. Maybe it had a fancy name once upon a time, but as long as I have known it, it's rice number.
So the ingredients..
Veal (that has been beaten out) (about 4 or 5 large pieces)
Wheatgerm (I used about a cup)
2 x Cans of Campbells Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
2 x Cans of Mushrooms in Butter
1 x 250ml Tub of Natural Yoghurt
1 to 2 Bay leaves
Paprika
Rice
Slice up the veal into small bits.
Place wheatgerm into large zip lock bag (This is obviously a modern day addition to the recipe that I have created as when my dad was young and when I was young, we didn't have zip lock bags, LOL). Place veal into the wheatgerm filled bag and seal the bag.
Move veal around until it is completely coated with veal (making sure no pieces are stuck together).
Once coated, heat a pan and add some oil. Cook veal in small batches until lightly golden brown.
Place cooked veal into baking/casserole dish.
Into large bowl or blender add chicken soup, mushrooms and yoghurt.
Blend until well combined and if in a bowl used a hand blender to mix ingredients until well combined.
Pour sauce mixture over veal and mix lightly.
Add a couple of bay leaves to the top of and press slightly. Sprinkle top with paprika.
Place in moderate oven for about one hour.
Cook some rice.
Add rice to a bowl or plate
Scoop a couple of large ladles of Rice Number over the top.
I have never tried to freeze this, so don't know if it freezes, but it is just as good the next day if stored in the fridge and then reheated.
Enjoy....
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