Ok, folks. Just wanted to post something so you know I'm alive. I know I haven't posted and there's a ton to talk about, but unfortunately none of it is in the weight loss arena. I'm in the 'just don't lose as much ground as possible' stage - straightening out a lot of issues of my life and the weight loss thing is on the back burner. I'm trying to not eat as bad as I have been lately, so I'm trying to lure that back in. I'm doing OK - I can do better but it's ok for now.
Also, work is absolutely killing me. So many long nights, weekends, you name it. But I'm surviving. I'm ok - I'm loving what I'm doing and in a crazy way, it's something I was meant to do. But it's absolutely crazy.
I'm living in a new place, I'm meeting new people, I'm learning new things through the school, and my daily schedule is completely opposite of what it used to be - it's so unorganized, and the next day is nothing like the day before it. I love it though, but as time goes on with all these changes I'm trying to create a routine - that's what saved me last time, knowing that I'm going to work at a certain time, school at a certain time, the gym at a certain time, eating at certain times - but now, it's a matter of getting through each day.
I did buy myself a lunch box and an icebox thing and am going to start making my lunches every day. It's so much cheaper, and so much better. Regulate the things you can, right?
Things are good - they're not IDEAL, but they're great for where I am in my life right now. We are going through the divorce process and Erin has been really good about it. We've done what we've had to do to make this as decent and as respectful as possible. We didn't work at a married couple, but I can tell you that through this process she's a great person and will make a great girlfriend/wife for someone else down the road.
Ok, no more time for now, gotta run. Just wanted to let you guys know I haven't fallen off the side of the earth. I used to spend 12-14 hours a day on a computer, and now if I see one every few days it's a gift. Catch you soon - leave me lots of comments so I know you haven't forgotten who I am ;)
Monday, October 20, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Out there
It's 2:15am and I can't sleep - I'm going to pay for this come 6am when the alarm goes off.
Not much has changed here - things are still crazy hectic and I've been feeling down lately. I mean, there's some great things going on in my life right now, but everything is different. My schedule, my planning, my meals, everything - I feel as if I'm living on a shoestring, just living day to day. It's hard to explain, but all structure has disappeared from my life. I used to have this whole routing - wake up, gym, work, school, home, take care of business, have dinner, hang out watching TV and go to bed. A pattern. A routine.
Nothing though, now. I'm TRYING to eat right, but it's not working. I've been as unmotivated as you can imagine, and nothing seems to make me want to be different. I mean - I KNOW what I'm doing to myself. I have a choice of rising about and achieving new things and falling into my own self pity, and yet I've chosen the second one.
I'll figure this out, but this one is going to need time. As I said, there's some great things going on in my life - mostly school related. In fact, you should all turn on the Today Show (you know, the national AM tv show) Thursday morning. I'm not sure what time during the program this will be, but we (my band) has been invited to perform on the Today Show at Campus Martius Park here in Detroit. I'm not sure how it's going to work but we're going to be downtown at 5:15am on Thursday and performing for the Today Show, so set those DVRs.
Anyway, the weight loss thing is in trouble. I'm not done, and I certainly haven't failed, but it's been tough. Going to cut this short - I've got to be up in 3 1/2 hours. I can't sleep at all, I've tried about 4 times tonight. Hang in there with me.
Not much has changed here - things are still crazy hectic and I've been feeling down lately. I mean, there's some great things going on in my life right now, but everything is different. My schedule, my planning, my meals, everything - I feel as if I'm living on a shoestring, just living day to day. It's hard to explain, but all structure has disappeared from my life. I used to have this whole routing - wake up, gym, work, school, home, take care of business, have dinner, hang out watching TV and go to bed. A pattern. A routine.
Nothing though, now. I'm TRYING to eat right, but it's not working. I've been as unmotivated as you can imagine, and nothing seems to make me want to be different. I mean - I KNOW what I'm doing to myself. I have a choice of rising about and achieving new things and falling into my own self pity, and yet I've chosen the second one.
I'll figure this out, but this one is going to need time. As I said, there's some great things going on in my life - mostly school related. In fact, you should all turn on the Today Show (you know, the national AM tv show) Thursday morning. I'm not sure what time during the program this will be, but we (my band) has been invited to perform on the Today Show at Campus Martius Park here in Detroit. I'm not sure how it's going to work but we're going to be downtown at 5:15am on Thursday and performing for the Today Show, so set those DVRs.
Anyway, the weight loss thing is in trouble. I'm not done, and I certainly haven't failed, but it's been tough. Going to cut this short - I've got to be up in 3 1/2 hours. I can't sleep at all, I've tried about 4 times tonight. Hang in there with me.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Lost
I thought I should update you all on what's been going on in my life and why I've been missing from blogsville for the past few weeks.
I am getting a divorce from my wife.
It's hard to type, and even harder to realize. Erin and I had a great run - we met on new year's eve back in 2000-2001, dated for five years and were married for three. I don't want to get into the details - there's quite a bit that I'm not proud of - and I don't want to turn this into anything negative, as there's already so much of that. I refuse to say a bad thing about her and hope that it can be the same way. She's a great person, and we were great friends - but the marriage didn't work. I'll leave it at that and will delete all comments that slam her, me or the marriage.
That being said, I hope that helps to explain where I've been.
I feel lost. I don't have my goals straight or my life planned out anymore. I'm working at the high school full time - probably 12-14 hour days on the slow days, and some nights I don't get home until 11pm-12am because of a band event. That's good though, because it keeps me distracted. It keeps me focused on something so I don't have a lot of time to worry about things. And the best news to come out of it is, I'm a pretty damned good band director. I've found my passion and this is something that I truly know that I was put on this earth to do. I've found a drive to not only teach music - but to teach students to reach beyond what they thought was possible by setting challenges in front of them and just being amazed when they overachieve. Teaching is something that has always been in my blood - and being able to realize this dream is something that I have been needing to do for years.
So my life is the most extreme ups and downs that it could possibly be. I'm going through divorce - and have no job. I quit my $60k+/year job working 30 hours a week at the newspaper so I could student teach - for free, and in fact, I paid $2500 in tuition to do it. My stability is gone, my faith is weakened, and I'm holding onto everything that I can to keep my entire world as I know it together. I spent quite a bit of time with my in laws, my church, my friends - and essentially it all disappeared.
Weight loss has been a struggle lately, as you can imagine. It's in my mind - I *NEED* to start eating right. I'm living on my brother's couch, and just not in the right mind frame to eat healthy and work out. I haven't seen the gym in almost a month. I've been eating out most meals because I don't want to bother my brother by preparing food in his house - I know that sounds stupid and he'd kick me if I said that, but I don't want to impose on him.
I have no idea what my weight is - my brother doesn't have a scale and mine is still at my house. I know I'm losing control, and every day I wake up saying that today is going to be the day that I get my head back on and regain control of my life, yet I slip into shitty eating and not working out every single day. Now, I'm on my feet for at least 12-14 hours a day, so the gym isn't *AS* detrimental as the eating, but it's still a factor.
My motivation has been gone lately. I'm not looking for pity. I'm not expecting anyone to give me a free pass. The bottom line is, I'm in a major rut and just don't know how to get out of it. New opportunities in my life are popping up now, and I'm not strong enough to force myself to the gym and to eat right, right now. But I need to.
This is the time of my life where I need to stand up and make a decision - am I going to regain all of this weight because of the struggles in my life that I am facing, or do I pull myself up out of the quicksand and fight?
It's so much easier to say than do. Just hang in there with me - if I don't post, it's not because I don't care. It's because I don't see a computer for days sometimes. I'm around, but I'm fighting the battles right now.
I haven't failed. For whoever said I did, you're mistaken. Thanks anyway, though.
I am getting a divorce from my wife.
It's hard to type, and even harder to realize. Erin and I had a great run - we met on new year's eve back in 2000-2001, dated for five years and were married for three. I don't want to get into the details - there's quite a bit that I'm not proud of - and I don't want to turn this into anything negative, as there's already so much of that. I refuse to say a bad thing about her and hope that it can be the same way. She's a great person, and we were great friends - but the marriage didn't work. I'll leave it at that and will delete all comments that slam her, me or the marriage.
That being said, I hope that helps to explain where I've been.
I feel lost. I don't have my goals straight or my life planned out anymore. I'm working at the high school full time - probably 12-14 hour days on the slow days, and some nights I don't get home until 11pm-12am because of a band event. That's good though, because it keeps me distracted. It keeps me focused on something so I don't have a lot of time to worry about things. And the best news to come out of it is, I'm a pretty damned good band director. I've found my passion and this is something that I truly know that I was put on this earth to do. I've found a drive to not only teach music - but to teach students to reach beyond what they thought was possible by setting challenges in front of them and just being amazed when they overachieve. Teaching is something that has always been in my blood - and being able to realize this dream is something that I have been needing to do for years.
So my life is the most extreme ups and downs that it could possibly be. I'm going through divorce - and have no job. I quit my $60k+/year job working 30 hours a week at the newspaper so I could student teach - for free, and in fact, I paid $2500 in tuition to do it. My stability is gone, my faith is weakened, and I'm holding onto everything that I can to keep my entire world as I know it together. I spent quite a bit of time with my in laws, my church, my friends - and essentially it all disappeared.
Weight loss has been a struggle lately, as you can imagine. It's in my mind - I *NEED* to start eating right. I'm living on my brother's couch, and just not in the right mind frame to eat healthy and work out. I haven't seen the gym in almost a month. I've been eating out most meals because I don't want to bother my brother by preparing food in his house - I know that sounds stupid and he'd kick me if I said that, but I don't want to impose on him.
I have no idea what my weight is - my brother doesn't have a scale and mine is still at my house. I know I'm losing control, and every day I wake up saying that today is going to be the day that I get my head back on and regain control of my life, yet I slip into shitty eating and not working out every single day. Now, I'm on my feet for at least 12-14 hours a day, so the gym isn't *AS* detrimental as the eating, but it's still a factor.
My motivation has been gone lately. I'm not looking for pity. I'm not expecting anyone to give me a free pass. The bottom line is, I'm in a major rut and just don't know how to get out of it. New opportunities in my life are popping up now, and I'm not strong enough to force myself to the gym and to eat right, right now. But I need to.
This is the time of my life where I need to stand up and make a decision - am I going to regain all of this weight because of the struggles in my life that I am facing, or do I pull myself up out of the quicksand and fight?
It's so much easier to say than do. Just hang in there with me - if I don't post, it's not because I don't care. It's because I don't see a computer for days sometimes. I'm around, but I'm fighting the battles right now.
I haven't failed. For whoever said I did, you're mistaken. Thanks anyway, though.
Monday, August 25, 2008
First Steps
Weigh In: 291
Right back to where I started. Tom and I have this challenge going on to see who can lose the most weight in a month, and I'm currently at zero. More on that later, though. We've got until Labor Day.
Today is a major day for me. Last Friday I quit my job at the newspaper after 8 years, and today I start the first day of Marching Band Camp with Martin Luther King HS in Detroit. This is the band that went to China to perform at the Olympics. This is the band that is pretty much the face of the city of Detroit. This band is everything that is right with the city of Detroit. HUGE program.
Marching band camp is 8am-6pm Monday-Friday this week. I'll be there at 7:30. I'll be on the field marching and keeping up with these high schoolers all week. I've committed to 100% eating this week. I've been using this week as my reason (read: excuse) for eating poorly lately, that I'll just "start" when I'll be at camp. So here it is.
I'll be takling more about this band as I go - I'm considering creating an entire secondary blog about them. This is what I've been looking forward to doing since literally 1994 when I started my college career. I've taken quite a few steps - some in the right, some in the wrong direction, but I'm finally here.
More later - but I needed to put my numbers out there to keep myself accountable. I'm not proud of myself lately - in fact, I feel a lot today like I did the first time I wrote a blog here - unaccountable, embarrassed, feeling pretty down about myself and my lack of control.. but I know I've pulled myself from the ashes before, and it's time for me to do it again. I need to find pride in myself again, and I think that it starts with being a part of this marching band.
They are, after all, Crusaders. Wish me luck.
Right back to where I started. Tom and I have this challenge going on to see who can lose the most weight in a month, and I'm currently at zero. More on that later, though. We've got until Labor Day.
Today is a major day for me. Last Friday I quit my job at the newspaper after 8 years, and today I start the first day of Marching Band Camp with Martin Luther King HS in Detroit. This is the band that went to China to perform at the Olympics. This is the band that is pretty much the face of the city of Detroit. This band is everything that is right with the city of Detroit. HUGE program.
Marching band camp is 8am-6pm Monday-Friday this week. I'll be there at 7:30. I'll be on the field marching and keeping up with these high schoolers all week. I've committed to 100% eating this week. I've been using this week as my reason (read: excuse) for eating poorly lately, that I'll just "start" when I'll be at camp. So here it is.
I'll be takling more about this band as I go - I'm considering creating an entire secondary blog about them. This is what I've been looking forward to doing since literally 1994 when I started my college career. I've taken quite a few steps - some in the right, some in the wrong direction, but I'm finally here.
More later - but I needed to put my numbers out there to keep myself accountable. I'm not proud of myself lately - in fact, I feel a lot today like I did the first time I wrote a blog here - unaccountable, embarrassed, feeling pretty down about myself and my lack of control.. but I know I've pulled myself from the ashes before, and it's time for me to do it again. I need to find pride in myself again, and I think that it starts with being a part of this marching band.
They are, after all, Crusaders. Wish me luck.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Update - I'm alive
Quick update - I gained a pound since I talked last - I have 2 days left on a job I've held for 8 years, my eating has been so-so, not bad, not good, I haven't been to the gym more than twice in the past week, and I'm going to be running one of the largest marching bands in the state of Michigan (the only band in the United States that was invited to perform in China during the Olympics and they just returned yesterday).
Life is insane. I hate that I'm leaving you guys hanging, but it's been absolutely crazy lately. 287.8 was the weigh in.
Starting Monday it's going to be 10 hours of Marching Band camp for a full week and then school starts, where I am responsible for the entire marching band, jazz program and all classes. There will be no time for eating (especially the junk laying around my current work office), and I will be on my feet and marching and running around 10 hours a day.
The weight will get in the right direction.. sorry it's been so light on the blogs/weigh in's lately, but I hardly have time to do anything. I haven't given up, but I totally know it looks like it. Hang in there with me - my world flips on its head Monday morning.
Life is insane. I hate that I'm leaving you guys hanging, but it's been absolutely crazy lately. 287.8 was the weigh in.
Starting Monday it's going to be 10 hours of Marching Band camp for a full week and then school starts, where I am responsible for the entire marching band, jazz program and all classes. There will be no time for eating (especially the junk laying around my current work office), and I will be on my feet and marching and running around 10 hours a day.
The weight will get in the right direction.. sorry it's been so light on the blogs/weigh in's lately, but I hardly have time to do anything. I haven't given up, but I totally know it looks like it. Hang in there with me - my world flips on its head Monday morning.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Stagnant
My schedule's been incredibly crazy lately, so it's been more of a "hold onto the ground you've gained" situation. I keep thinking in the back of my head that I leave the office job and will be running marching band camps and will be on my feet 16 hours a day starting after next week (the last day at the office is the 22nd), so that maybe the weight loss will kick back in.
I've been doing ok, but because my schedule (and honestly, I've been lazy when I actually DO get to rest) I haven't been in the gym much. Maybe 3 times a week? I guess that's good for some, but for me, that's like almost nothing. I'll get back into gear here.
Not much to say today except for that I'm doing "ok" - I could be driving hard, but I could be falling off the wagon, and neither is happening. I wish I didn't keep having an excuse each time for not pushing hard, but having the whole job turnover thing in a week, it's kind of been my focus while everything else has taken a back seat. Neutral isn't 5th gear, but it's not reverse either. I'm hanging in there.
I've been doing ok, but because my schedule (and honestly, I've been lazy when I actually DO get to rest) I haven't been in the gym much. Maybe 3 times a week? I guess that's good for some, but for me, that's like almost nothing. I'll get back into gear here.
Not much to say today except for that I'm doing "ok" - I could be driving hard, but I could be falling off the wagon, and neither is happening. I wish I didn't keep having an excuse each time for not pushing hard, but having the whole job turnover thing in a week, it's kind of been my focus while everything else has taken a back seat. Neutral isn't 5th gear, but it's not reverse either. I'm hanging in there.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Keeping On
Another short one - I'm up too early for work today so I had a second.
My shoulder has been killing me all week and it's been keeping me out of the gym. That kind of sucks - as the weight is sneaking up again without it.
I'll be overdosing Aleve (or however you spell it) again today, and I'm hoping it gets better. I hate being out of sync.
Trying to hang on. Hoping to have some extra time on my hands in the next few days - we'll see how that goes. Sorry for being 4 days since my last post, I had no idea how quick that went by.
Totally uninspired today, the blog's boring. More tomorrow.
My shoulder has been killing me all week and it's been keeping me out of the gym. That kind of sucks - as the weight is sneaking up again without it.
I'll be overdosing Aleve (or however you spell it) again today, and I'm hoping it gets better. I hate being out of sync.
Trying to hang on. Hoping to have some extra time on my hands in the next few days - we'll see how that goes. Sorry for being 4 days since my last post, I had no idea how quick that went by.
Totally uninspired today, the blog's boring. More tomorrow.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Short One II
Weigh In: 277.0
Yeah, that sucked. Tom's catching up on the Labor Day weekend race. I had a bad, bad Saturday. Ate perfectly all day.. until the wedding. Then, I ate perfectly there - which mens I had a little bit of EVERYTHING and way too many beers. Not good - the weight soared. Kills me that you can eat perfectly for a week and be down 4 pounds and then watch it all go away with one bad night's decision.
Gonna make this short - I've been working like 8am-11pm about 4-5 nights a week, and totaling I think we said 70-some hours a week the past few weeks. That'll explain the lack of blogging. It's totally not because I'm slacking or not trying. It's getting the time in.
That being said, it's 11:47 and I'm working at 8 again.
Oh, side note - I hope this doesn't become an issue but as of now, my right shoulder is in BLINDING pain. I was yanking out a garbage bag tonight and literally heard the rotator cuff pop. Let's hope I just pulled a muscle and this ibuprofen will get me through the night. I don't have time for doctors and injuries. Knock on wood. More tomorrow.
Yeah, that sucked. Tom's catching up on the Labor Day weekend race. I had a bad, bad Saturday. Ate perfectly all day.. until the wedding. Then, I ate perfectly there - which mens I had a little bit of EVERYTHING and way too many beers. Not good - the weight soared. Kills me that you can eat perfectly for a week and be down 4 pounds and then watch it all go away with one bad night's decision.
Gonna make this short - I've been working like 8am-11pm about 4-5 nights a week, and totaling I think we said 70-some hours a week the past few weeks. That'll explain the lack of blogging. It's totally not because I'm slacking or not trying. It's getting the time in.
That being said, it's 11:47 and I'm working at 8 again.
Oh, side note - I hope this doesn't become an issue but as of now, my right shoulder is in BLINDING pain. I was yanking out a garbage bag tonight and literally heard the rotator cuff pop. Let's hope I just pulled a muscle and this ibuprofen will get me through the night. I don't have time for doctors and injuries. Knock on wood. More tomorrow.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Short one
Sorry guys - been working long hours and doing way too much. Life has taken some turns lately that I never thought they would.
I'm still going strong - skipped today's workout because I worked from 8am-12am and wasn't going to get up at 5:30 to do so, but the weight is locked in at 286. Gotta get lower, but I'm doing good. Sorry for the slow response.
I'm still going strong - skipped today's workout because I worked from 8am-12am and wasn't going to get up at 5:30 to do so, but the weight is locked in at 286. Gotta get lower, but I'm doing good. Sorry for the slow response.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Whoops
Weigh In: 286.6
Yikes, two days slipped by without posting. Things have been good - I just got home last night, laid down on the couch and went unconscious. Getting into bed from there was tough. I've been totally exhausted lately, but making the right decisions. We ended up at a BBQ right after work yesterday so I had to make sure I made good eating decisions there for dinner - could have done better, I did have a hamburger, but I just had carrots, broccoli with hummus as my side. And of course I slipped at the end and had two (although small, I had two. Stupid.) sections of this chocolate bundt cake (hell I dont know how to spell it but it was good) just because it was there. I caught the dirty look from Erin and I knew she was right.
It's 6:11 and I'm late for the gym (6am), so this is going to be short - I just needed to get SOMETHING in as part of my deal.
Yikes, two days slipped by without posting. Things have been good - I just got home last night, laid down on the couch and went unconscious. Getting into bed from there was tough. I've been totally exhausted lately, but making the right decisions. We ended up at a BBQ right after work yesterday so I had to make sure I made good eating decisions there for dinner - could have done better, I did have a hamburger, but I just had carrots, broccoli with hummus as my side. And of course I slipped at the end and had two (although small, I had two. Stupid.) sections of this chocolate bundt cake (hell I dont know how to spell it but it was good) just because it was there. I caught the dirty look from Erin and I knew she was right.
It's 6:11 and I'm late for the gym (6am), so this is going to be short - I just needed to get SOMETHING in as part of my deal.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Weekend Done
Weigh In: 286.0
Calories Counted: ? 2400 ish?
Quickie tonight - had a good weekend. Probably drank too many beers (only 3) on Saturday, avoided some temptations, hit the gym when I needed to but missed this morning, and had BBQ type food tonight - so not the best of all, but I saw the weight come down today.
I'll be hitting the gym in the morning and right back on my feet. I'd give myself a B- this weekend. Ate well 'most' of the time and missed a workout. But, I avoided a pizza temptation, hit the gym, and had a good handle on what I was doing. I can't complain.
My first weigh in against my father in law Tom is tomorrow - remember, whoever loses the challenge on Labor Day has to cook a healthy meal for the family. Either way, we both win. But Tom - you KNOW I'm gonna win ;)
Calories Counted: ? 2400 ish?
Quickie tonight - had a good weekend. Probably drank too many beers (only 3) on Saturday, avoided some temptations, hit the gym when I needed to but missed this morning, and had BBQ type food tonight - so not the best of all, but I saw the weight come down today.
I'll be hitting the gym in the morning and right back on my feet. I'd give myself a B- this weekend. Ate well 'most' of the time and missed a workout. But, I avoided a pizza temptation, hit the gym, and had a good handle on what I was doing. I can't complain.
My first weigh in against my father in law Tom is tomorrow - remember, whoever loses the challenge on Labor Day has to cook a healthy meal for the family. Either way, we both win. But Tom - you KNOW I'm gonna win ;)
Friday, July 25, 2008
The Weekend Warrior Returns
Yesterday's Weigh In: 286.4
Yesterday's Calories: I haven't counted them yet but similar to past few days
Just a few quick notes, going to be out late tonight again so I wanted to get something in. My first week was pretty good - I was at 291 at the beginning of the week and now on Friday, I'm 286.4. That brings me to the weekend. We all know what happens, so I have to continue this momenteum into next week.
I was reading through the Men's Health website and came across this article. Not only is there good information, but for a few of us FAT Coalition folks, a few popular phrases rang out.
"Weekend Warriors"
"Just Do Something"
Here's a link to the article, but if you guys are as lazy about these things as I am, here's the text of the article as well. It's not ground breaking - in fact, it's oversimplified, but it gets the point across and addresses one of my biggest weaknesses - the weekend.
Be strong this weekend, folks.
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Yesterday's Calories: I haven't counted them yet but similar to past few days
Just a few quick notes, going to be out late tonight again so I wanted to get something in. My first week was pretty good - I was at 291 at the beginning of the week and now on Friday, I'm 286.4. That brings me to the weekend. We all know what happens, so I have to continue this momenteum into next week.
I was reading through the Men's Health website and came across this article. Not only is there good information, but for a few of us FAT Coalition folks, a few popular phrases rang out.
"Weekend Warriors"
"Just Do Something"
Here's a link to the article, but if you guys are as lazy about these things as I am, here's the text of the article as well. It's not ground breaking - in fact, it's oversimplified, but it gets the point across and addresses one of my biggest weaknesses - the weekend.
Be strong this weekend, folks.
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Abs Diet: Weekend Workout Program
Weekend Warrior Training PlanHow to get the most out of your weekend, workout-wise
The Friday Workout
The workday ends. The whistle blows, you slide down the dinosaur's tail and into your car, and the weekend has begun. Now squeeze in a workout before joining in the festivities.
Here's the plan:
6:00 p.m. Stretch.
6:05 Sweat. Do something aerobic for 20 minutes. Your options: Take a fast-paced walk; do some light jogging; go swimming; hop on a stationary bike, rower or stairclimber; jump rope. Or do any 20-minute combination of these. "It's not so much what you do," says Warren Anderson, M.S., C.S.C.S., owner of Rehab Plus in Phoenix, "it's that you do. Just do something."
6:25 Cool down. Walk around for a few minutes to bring down your heart rate.
6:30 Pump. It's time to move some iron. For your resistance workout, don't feel like you need a separate exercise for every tiny muscle in your body. By targeting the major muscle groups, the following program will hit almost every muscle to one degree or another. For each exercise, do two sets of 10 to 15 repetitions.
- bench presses
- leg presses or squats
- lat pulldowns
- dumbbell curls
- back extensions or seated pulley rows
- two sets of 15 crunches to work your abdominals
A word about weights: "If you haven't done any weight training during the week, you should stick to moderate weights on Friday and then go hard on Sunday," says Gary Hunter, Ph.D., director of the exercise physiology department at the University of Alabama, Birmingham. "On Friday, aim for about 80 percent of what you could lift if you went all out. In other words, if you know you can bench-press 100 pounds for two sets of 10, do both sets with 80 pounds on Friday and 100 pounds on Sunday." Why not go hard both days? "You don't want to stress totally unprepared muscles," says Wayne Campbell, Ph.D., exercise physiologist at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Which brings us to this public-service message:
6:55 Stretch.
7:00 You're off. If you're feeling social, shower first.
Saturday
If you want to do aerobics, rake some leaves, wash your car or wallpaper your wife. Lay off the weights.
Sunday
Similar to Friday's workout, with two exceptions: First, try to do a different activity for your 20-minute aerobic workout. "I recommend doing different stuff both days so you don't overstress any one muscle group," says Campbell. "Then, there's no problem at all doing aerobics multiple times in the same weekend. The idea is to get a good workout without crippling yourself for Monday." Second, do the same strength routine, but use a little extra weight. Campbell recommends lifting as much as you can handle for two sets of 10 to 15 repetitions.Thursday, July 24, 2008
Quickie
In between 1st job and 2nd, have literally 1 minute.
Eating great today, worked out. Yesterday I couldn't get home to get the dinner that Erin made, so I ended up having ONE piece of pizza for dinner. Could have been much worse. I wish I wouldn't have had pizza, but one slice didn't kill me. In fact, the weight went down again.
286.4 today. Leaving for work now, back after 11:00pm after being in the gym around 6am and working first job all day. More later.
Eating great today, worked out. Yesterday I couldn't get home to get the dinner that Erin made, so I ended up having ONE piece of pizza for dinner. Could have been much worse. I wish I wouldn't have had pizza, but one slice didn't kill me. In fact, the weight went down again.
286.4 today. Leaving for work now, back after 11:00pm after being in the gym around 6am and working first job all day. More later.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
3's a streak
Weigh In: 287.4
Calories Counted: 2407
Days Blogged in a row: 4
Another day of being physically exhausted, but productive. Played softball tonight, went 2 for 3 with a home run (which Erin missed cause she was talking to people instead of watching lol), and a triple.
Came home and had a great dinner. Kind of hard to really line it up in calorie counter, but had salmon-kabobs with salmon (duh) and veggies cooked with non-stick spray and BBQ'd with corn on the cob, salad and a small serving (about 5 bites) of noodles. For lunch I had the turkey chili, for breakfast the shredded wheat again, and bananas for a snack. Also had a package of those small peanut butter/cheese crackers which wasn't bright, but its' a 200 calorie(ish) snack and it was the only thing I had between 12pm and 9pm, so I'm not sweating it.
So I'm doing well. The pounds are coming off, but that's not a shock. I know all too well that the first few pounds after a HUGE weight gain are easy. Anyone can lose a bunch of water and salt by being good for a few days. Hard to get excited about 287 nowadays, but I have to get to 287 to get to 267, so I'm on my way.
LOOOONG day tomorrow. I'm going to try to blog, but I hit the gym at 6am, work the first job from 8-4:30pm, then head to the second job from 5:oo-11:00, which will turn into midnight. If I don't blog tomorrow night, you know why - but I'm hoping to. Catch you all then.
Calories Counted: 2407
Days Blogged in a row: 4
Another day of being physically exhausted, but productive. Played softball tonight, went 2 for 3 with a home run (which Erin missed cause she was talking to people instead of watching lol), and a triple.
Came home and had a great dinner. Kind of hard to really line it up in calorie counter, but had salmon-kabobs with salmon (duh) and veggies cooked with non-stick spray and BBQ'd with corn on the cob, salad and a small serving (about 5 bites) of noodles. For lunch I had the turkey chili, for breakfast the shredded wheat again, and bananas for a snack. Also had a package of those small peanut butter/cheese crackers which wasn't bright, but its' a 200 calorie(ish) snack and it was the only thing I had between 12pm and 9pm, so I'm not sweating it.
So I'm doing well. The pounds are coming off, but that's not a shock. I know all too well that the first few pounds after a HUGE weight gain are easy. Anyone can lose a bunch of water and salt by being good for a few days. Hard to get excited about 287 nowadays, but I have to get to 287 to get to 267, so I'm on my way.
LOOOONG day tomorrow. I'm going to try to blog, but I hit the gym at 6am, work the first job from 8-4:30pm, then head to the second job from 5:oo-11:00, which will turn into midnight. If I don't blog tomorrow night, you know why - but I'm hoping to. Catch you all then.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Graphic Graphs
Calories Counted: 2192
Weigh In: 288.4
Consecutive Blog Days: 3
A few quick things - Tom (father in law) has challenged me to a 'most % of body weight lost by Labor Day' challenge - the loser has to cook a healthy dinner for the entire family. I like that challenge - and I kind of feel bad for him - he's got no chance to win ;)
Second off - I'm flat out exhausted after another good workout, 13 hours of work, and I'm ready to go to bed. If it wasn't for this blog I would have totally skipped the whole internet thing tonight, but I made the commitment, so here it is.
So, here's my food from today. Pretty damned identical, except we baked salmon tonight.
Here's something that really, really bummed me out - but put this whole thing into a perspective. First off, of COURSE Kevin and I are lock step in everything we do - including suffering right now. I just started plugging my weights back into Calorie-count.com again, and when I did my weight graph, this is what I saw:
If you click on it, you can see the entire thing with more detail. Basically, I lost over 14 months of hard work by being a complete loser the past 4 months. Take a look at that graph - the last time I was 291 pounds was May of 07. Honestly, that pisses me off. Why work at things? Why spend time sacrificing, if you're just going to be a complete dick and not finish what you started?
So yeah - I feel like a total failure right now in the weight loss department.
The good news is - I have to take the advice I've given others a hundred time - "the only loser is the one who quits".
I haven't quit. I'm back on my feet. I'll lose this weight, if it kills me.
Ok, so that's probably not the best analogy to use, but you know what I mean.
Off to bed - more tomorrow.
Weigh In: 288.4
Consecutive Blog Days: 3
A few quick things - Tom (father in law) has challenged me to a 'most % of body weight lost by Labor Day' challenge - the loser has to cook a healthy dinner for the entire family. I like that challenge - and I kind of feel bad for him - he's got no chance to win ;)
Second off - I'm flat out exhausted after another good workout, 13 hours of work, and I'm ready to go to bed. If it wasn't for this blog I would have totally skipped the whole internet thing tonight, but I made the commitment, so here it is.
So, here's my food from today. Pretty damned identical, except we baked salmon tonight.
| Mon, Jul 21 2008 | |||
| Breakfast | |||
  | A- KELLOGG'S STRAWBERRY MINI-WHEATS  | 107 | 358 |
| A- Milk, Lowfat, Fluid, 1% Milkfat - With Added Vitamin A | 244 | 103 |
| Lunch | |||
| C- LEAN POCKETS Brand Sausage & Pepperoni Pizza | 504 | 560 |
| Dinner | |||
| A Bread, Whole-wheat, Commercially Prepared | 140 | 346 |
| A- Salmon, Atlantic, Wild - Cooked, Dry Heat | 185 | 337 |
| Concord Grape Jelly - Smucker's | 80 | 200 |
| Snacks | |||
| A Bananas | 324 | 288 |
| Total Calories Consumed | 2,192 | ||
Here's something that really, really bummed me out - but put this whole thing into a perspective. First off, of COURSE Kevin and I are lock step in everything we do - including suffering right now. I just started plugging my weights back into Calorie-count.com again, and when I did my weight graph, this is what I saw:
If you click on it, you can see the entire thing with more detail. Basically, I lost over 14 months of hard work by being a complete loser the past 4 months. Take a look at that graph - the last time I was 291 pounds was May of 07. Honestly, that pisses me off. Why work at things? Why spend time sacrificing, if you're just going to be a complete dick and not finish what you started?
So yeah - I feel like a total failure right now in the weight loss department.
The good news is - I have to take the advice I've given others a hundred time - "the only loser is the one who quits".
I haven't quit. I'm back on my feet. I'll lose this weight, if it kills me.
Ok, so that's probably not the best analogy to use, but you know what I mean.
Off to bed - more tomorrow.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Deja Vu
First Weigh In: 291.0
Calories Counted Today: 2216
Days In A Row Blogging: 1
I said yesterday that there were three things that I had to do to make sure I get my ass back in gear.
1: Go the gym on a consistent basis
2: Count and report calories
3: Daily blogging
This is what I have to do to get back on track. I've "said" I was going to get on track a few (ok, about 43 times) in the past, but I never followed up on this. It's the key ingredient to this whole process - accountability. So, here's the first step - my eating for today:
Bugs me that the peanut butter isn't the right kind but I only had 1 tablespoon of the Kroger reduced fat and the program won't let me do 'half' a serving, since the serving size is 2 tablespoons. Other than that, it's pretty on. I think I did too much of the greek dressing too, but I'd rather be higher than lower.
Also, I hit the gym hard as hell today, used the Belly Off "Summer Special" - tons of squats and such, so my legs are totally destroyed. I actually went to do some time on the Eliptical today after my workout by my legs were shaking so hard I literally got like 90 seconds in and almost fell off. So, good workout.
I also avoided a temptation. We ended up going to dinner with the parents and grandparents tonight - I got the salad (actually split it with my wife, I had the smaller "half"), and as we were done, the waitress tells us that "with every dinner comes a complimentary dessert tonight". I had the choice between rice pudding, tapioca or wild cherry ice cream (which is one of my favorites of all time).
I chose nothing.
So, one day in the books. It means nothing if I screw up day two - stay tuned.
Calories Counted Today: 2216
Days In A Row Blogging: 1
I said yesterday that there were three things that I had to do to make sure I get my ass back in gear.
1: Go the gym on a consistent basis
2: Count and report calories
3: Daily blogging
This is what I have to do to get back on track. I've "said" I was going to get on track a few (ok, about 43 times) in the past, but I never followed up on this. It's the key ingredient to this whole process - accountability. So, here's the first step - my eating for today:
| Sun, Jul 20 2008 | |||
| Breakfast | |||
| A- KELLOGG'S FROSTED MINI-WHEATS, bite size | 111 | 382 |
| A- Milk, Lowfat, Fluid, 1% Milkfat - With Added Vitamin A | 366 | 154 |
| Lunch | |||
| C- LEAN POCKETS Brand Sausage & Pepperoni Pizza | 504 | 560 |
| Dinner | |||
| Greek Dressing | 112 | 400 |
| A- Salad, Vegetables Tossed - Without Dressing, With Turkey, Ham And Cheese | 435 | 357 |
| Snacks | |||
| A Bananas | 303 | 270 |
| B- Peanut Butter, Chunk Style - With Salt | 16 | 94 |
| Total Calories Consumed | 2,216 | ||
Bugs me that the peanut butter isn't the right kind but I only had 1 tablespoon of the Kroger reduced fat and the program won't let me do 'half' a serving, since the serving size is 2 tablespoons. Other than that, it's pretty on. I think I did too much of the greek dressing too, but I'd rather be higher than lower.
Also, I hit the gym hard as hell today, used the Belly Off "Summer Special" - tons of squats and such, so my legs are totally destroyed. I actually went to do some time on the Eliptical today after my workout by my legs were shaking so hard I literally got like 90 seconds in and almost fell off. So, good workout.
I also avoided a temptation. We ended up going to dinner with the parents and grandparents tonight - I got the salad (actually split it with my wife, I had the smaller "half"), and as we were done, the waitress tells us that "with every dinner comes a complimentary dessert tonight". I had the choice between rice pudding, tapioca or wild cherry ice cream (which is one of my favorites of all time).
I chose nothing.
So, one day in the books. It means nothing if I screw up day two - stay tuned.
Reality Check
Ok, so I've been talking about a 'break' for a while now, and how I had to get my head back into this game. I've given you a ton of excuses, given myself a ton of excuses, and basically pitied myself for not holding up to my end of the deal.
I've given a bunch of "comeback" speeches, but have never delivered at the end of the game.
My weight is up just.. bad. I mean, bad. I don't want to report until tomorrow morning, because I am going to rely on that weight as my 'starting weight' - the first weigh in of the morning. It's not pretty. In fact, it's just to the wrong side of ugly and 'holy shit'. I'll face that music tomorrow morning.
This is what HASN'T happened in a while:
A: A consistent gym workout plan - I will be downloading one of my old workouts from the Belly Off program tomorrow morning and will be begin to utilize it. It gives me a plan, a focus and a realistic goal once I'm in the gym instead of just letting myself half ass my way through a so-called 'workout'. I will finish it this time.
B: Counting calories and REPORTING them - I have done a flat out piss poor job with this. And, we all know why. It's because it's damned hard to lie to yourself about your caloric intake when you're blatantly cheating on a daily basis. It's pretty freaking pointless. I will be much better at this.
C: Blogging DAILY. None of this "I don't have time tonight so here are my numbers" shit. Straight up blogging. Talking about my goals, how I am going, what I plan to do next, how I'm feeling, etc. I've done over a year of blogging and one thing is clear - when I'm consistently doing all three of these, I'm losing weight. When I'm NOT, I don't.
It's that simple.
I was gone on vacation up north all last week (from Saturday until today), so I basically took the past few weeks off knowing that it was going to be a fat chance in hell that I would stick to a good eating plan up north - hell, I haven't been able to do it at HOME.
So, no 'comeback' speeches. No bullshit.
I have to complete each of those three things - blogging, counting calories and an organized workout plan - each and every single day.
Accountablity is how I was able to lose the weight I did. Losing that accountability has really, really hurt me.
So, if you're still reading this, stick with me. Business is picking up. More tomorrow morning when I get a workout plan printed and my official weigh in. It's going to be bad - but it's on me to change that.
I've given a bunch of "comeback" speeches, but have never delivered at the end of the game.
My weight is up just.. bad. I mean, bad. I don't want to report until tomorrow morning, because I am going to rely on that weight as my 'starting weight' - the first weigh in of the morning. It's not pretty. In fact, it's just to the wrong side of ugly and 'holy shit'. I'll face that music tomorrow morning.
This is what HASN'T happened in a while:
A: A consistent gym workout plan - I will be downloading one of my old workouts from the Belly Off program tomorrow morning and will be begin to utilize it. It gives me a plan, a focus and a realistic goal once I'm in the gym instead of just letting myself half ass my way through a so-called 'workout'. I will finish it this time.
B: Counting calories and REPORTING them - I have done a flat out piss poor job with this. And, we all know why. It's because it's damned hard to lie to yourself about your caloric intake when you're blatantly cheating on a daily basis. It's pretty freaking pointless. I will be much better at this.
C: Blogging DAILY. None of this "I don't have time tonight so here are my numbers" shit. Straight up blogging. Talking about my goals, how I am going, what I plan to do next, how I'm feeling, etc. I've done over a year of blogging and one thing is clear - when I'm consistently doing all three of these, I'm losing weight. When I'm NOT, I don't.
It's that simple.
I was gone on vacation up north all last week (from Saturday until today), so I basically took the past few weeks off knowing that it was going to be a fat chance in hell that I would stick to a good eating plan up north - hell, I haven't been able to do it at HOME.
So, no 'comeback' speeches. No bullshit.
I have to complete each of those three things - blogging, counting calories and an organized workout plan - each and every single day.
Accountablity is how I was able to lose the weight I did. Losing that accountability has really, really hurt me.
So, if you're still reading this, stick with me. Business is picking up. More tomorrow morning when I get a workout plan printed and my official weigh in. It's going to be bad - but it's on me to change that.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Explanation
Weigh In: 281.4
I figured I'd offer up an explanation for what I've been doing lately. It's hard to really go at something like weight loss for almost two years now and do it consistently and full speed ahead.
I started this in November of 2006. I weighed 379 pounds back then. I had lost control of my life, I felt like a shut-in who was unable to really do anything because I felt like a complete loser. I wasn't athletic, my eating was uncontrolable. For those of you who weren't around when I described my "typical eating day" back in 2006, it went something like this - with NO exaggeration.
Breakfast: 4 McGriddles, 3 hash brown and a large orange juice.
Lunch: 4 double cheeseburgers, large fry, a few pies and a large mountain dew.
Mid-day: Chocolate bars, ice cream - and on the way home, yes -2-3 double cheeseburgers.
Dinner: Healthy dinner that my wife made, because I was ashamed to talk about what I had done during the day.
I think we calculated something like 7000-8000 calories PER DAY.
Per *DAY*.
So when I look back at that, I know that I've come a long way. But the reality is, I've got a long way to go. I still have 50-60 pounds that I would like to lose. I know that when I'm doing this, I have to be at 100% concentration and 100% FULL DESIRE to get this done - a lot like how I was in the past, and a lot like a many of you are doing right now.
But I got tired of the grind. Doing this 7 days a week in the gym, eating perfect, recording calories, all the sacrifices that go along with it - it wears you out mentally. And when you add my schedule and other personal stresses that consume one's life in a way that takes your focus off of anything else you have on your plate .. weight loss becomes secondary.
For a while, I took that hard. I couldn't understand WHY I couldn't get geared up. I couldn't get why I would go one day balls out, and then just cave in and have crap for dinner.
It's because I needed a break.
So, I'm taking a break - but it's MUCH different than before. I'm not counting calories - and today was the first time I went to the gym in about 4-5 days - and that's saying something for me.
But unlike in the past, I'm not regaining all of my weight on my break. I'm slipping into neutral, trying to stay around the same weight as I can, not lose too much ground, and get my head into it. It's the only way that I can be truly honest with myself about where I am, what I need, and how I'm going to get there.
Soon, I'll be 100% again. Sooner than later, you'll see me talking about the runs, the gym workouts, the perfect eating streaks.. all of that. But right now, I'm recharging the batteries. Now, I'm not going crazy. I'm eating right. Perhaps not the ideal eating conditions for weight loss, but for maintaining, I'm doing ok. Workouts are a little more sporadic, but that comes with an everchanging schedule. That'll be resolved soon too.
This may sound like a big excuse to some of you, but this is how it is with me right now. It's the mindset I'm in. I'm not in fifth gear, but I'm not in reverse. Think of it was sitting in line waiting to fill the tank up at the gas station, except minus the $4+ gas prices.
I'm still here, and for what it's worth, I check the blog a few times daily to see if any comments have come in. I'm VERY ... let me repeat .. *VERY* honored and appreciative that you guys are on me, and not giving up on me. It's what I need, and I hope that my mentality right now doesn't get you down on me. I'm still going to blog, and yes - I do need to do that more often. It doesn't take but a few minutes to blog every day. I'll do better on this.
So, hope everyone is doing well. Forward and onward, right? I just wanted to let you know that I'm doing well, I haven't fallen off the bandwagon, and in fact, have lost 2 pounds since the last time I blogged. I'll get back sooner this time. Thanks!
I figured I'd offer up an explanation for what I've been doing lately. It's hard to really go at something like weight loss for almost two years now and do it consistently and full speed ahead.
I started this in November of 2006. I weighed 379 pounds back then. I had lost control of my life, I felt like a shut-in who was unable to really do anything because I felt like a complete loser. I wasn't athletic, my eating was uncontrolable. For those of you who weren't around when I described my "typical eating day" back in 2006, it went something like this - with NO exaggeration.
Breakfast: 4 McGriddles, 3 hash brown and a large orange juice.
Lunch: 4 double cheeseburgers, large fry, a few pies and a large mountain dew.
Mid-day: Chocolate bars, ice cream - and on the way home, yes -2-3 double cheeseburgers.
Dinner: Healthy dinner that my wife made, because I was ashamed to talk about what I had done during the day.
I think we calculated something like 7000-8000 calories PER DAY.
Per *DAY*.
So when I look back at that, I know that I've come a long way. But the reality is, I've got a long way to go. I still have 50-60 pounds that I would like to lose. I know that when I'm doing this, I have to be at 100% concentration and 100% FULL DESIRE to get this done - a lot like how I was in the past, and a lot like a many of you are doing right now.
But I got tired of the grind. Doing this 7 days a week in the gym, eating perfect, recording calories, all the sacrifices that go along with it - it wears you out mentally. And when you add my schedule and other personal stresses that consume one's life in a way that takes your focus off of anything else you have on your plate .. weight loss becomes secondary.
For a while, I took that hard. I couldn't understand WHY I couldn't get geared up. I couldn't get why I would go one day balls out, and then just cave in and have crap for dinner.
It's because I needed a break.
So, I'm taking a break - but it's MUCH different than before. I'm not counting calories - and today was the first time I went to the gym in about 4-5 days - and that's saying something for me.
But unlike in the past, I'm not regaining all of my weight on my break. I'm slipping into neutral, trying to stay around the same weight as I can, not lose too much ground, and get my head into it. It's the only way that I can be truly honest with myself about where I am, what I need, and how I'm going to get there.
Soon, I'll be 100% again. Sooner than later, you'll see me talking about the runs, the gym workouts, the perfect eating streaks.. all of that. But right now, I'm recharging the batteries. Now, I'm not going crazy. I'm eating right. Perhaps not the ideal eating conditions for weight loss, but for maintaining, I'm doing ok. Workouts are a little more sporadic, but that comes with an everchanging schedule. That'll be resolved soon too.
This may sound like a big excuse to some of you, but this is how it is with me right now. It's the mindset I'm in. I'm not in fifth gear, but I'm not in reverse. Think of it was sitting in line waiting to fill the tank up at the gas station, except minus the $4+ gas prices.
I'm still here, and for what it's worth, I check the blog a few times daily to see if any comments have come in. I'm VERY ... let me repeat .. *VERY* honored and appreciative that you guys are on me, and not giving up on me. It's what I need, and I hope that my mentality right now doesn't get you down on me. I'm still going to blog, and yes - I do need to do that more often. It doesn't take but a few minutes to blog every day. I'll do better on this.
So, hope everyone is doing well. Forward and onward, right? I just wanted to let you know that I'm doing well, I haven't fallen off the bandwagon, and in fact, have lost 2 pounds since the last time I blogged. I'll get back sooner this time. Thanks!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Tuesday already
June 12 Starting Weigh In: 283.6
Today's Weigh In: 282.0
Total Lost: 1.6 pounds, 9.4 to go
Just a quick shot - just got into work. Things have been going well. I just got out of the gym and here to work, and I've got a healthy lunch planned (thanks for packing the lunch dear). I'm in the 'trap' today - 10 hours sitting on my ass at the office with all the distractions around. I'm determined to not fall for them today.
Then, a softball doubleheader so that'll help on the fitness level as well.
Made grilled walleye last night, it was pretty good. Grilled with with lemon juice, a touch of butter (to keep it from sticking), and cajun spices and had corn on the cob and salad with it. Pretty healthy. I'm starting to get pretty good at the whole fish-on-the-barbie thing, so I think we're going to keep doing that. Great for you, and easy clean up ;)
So, still going strong.
Today's Weigh In: 282.0
Total Lost: 1.6 pounds, 9.4 to go
Just a quick shot - just got into work. Things have been going well. I just got out of the gym and here to work, and I've got a healthy lunch planned (thanks for packing the lunch dear). I'm in the 'trap' today - 10 hours sitting on my ass at the office with all the distractions around. I'm determined to not fall for them today.
Then, a softball doubleheader so that'll help on the fitness level as well.
Made grilled walleye last night, it was pretty good. Grilled with with lemon juice, a touch of butter (to keep it from sticking), and cajun spices and had corn on the cob and salad with it. Pretty healthy. I'm starting to get pretty good at the whole fish-on-the-barbie thing, so I think we're going to keep doing that. Great for you, and easy clean up ;)
So, still going strong.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Day 3
June 12 Starting Weigh In: 283.6
Today's Weigh In: 282.0
Total Lost: 1.6 pounds, 9.4 to go
Yesterday was a pretty good day with a potential pothole right at the end. Ate pretty well all the way through the day, but then ended up going to dinner with the parents and wife. Ate Mexican, which isn't the best, but got the sauces on the side, made one of the healthier decisions (could have done better but could have done *MUCH* worse), and then I made sure to not finish the meal, only had one of my two enchiladas. Then, ended up at the bar last night and had two beers.
But, the weight went down a pound this morning, so you know I'm going to keep moving forward. Today so far, I've been to the gym and mowed the lawn and I'm sweating balls. I stepped on the scale a little while ago (with shorts/tshirt on), not quite sure why, and saw 281.4, which means I'm going in the right direction.
Have to be smart this weekend - Father's Day means 2 BBQs, tonight and tomorrow. I said in the past that "one good day" is just a day, "two good days" is a good start, and "three good days" is the beginning to a good streak.
Today's day 3.
Today's Weigh In: 282.0
Total Lost: 1.6 pounds, 9.4 to go
Yesterday was a pretty good day with a potential pothole right at the end. Ate pretty well all the way through the day, but then ended up going to dinner with the parents and wife. Ate Mexican, which isn't the best, but got the sauces on the side, made one of the healthier decisions (could have done better but could have done *MUCH* worse), and then I made sure to not finish the meal, only had one of my two enchiladas. Then, ended up at the bar last night and had two beers.
But, the weight went down a pound this morning, so you know I'm going to keep moving forward. Today so far, I've been to the gym and mowed the lawn and I'm sweating balls. I stepped on the scale a little while ago (with shorts/tshirt on), not quite sure why, and saw 281.4, which means I'm going in the right direction.
Have to be smart this weekend - Father's Day means 2 BBQs, tonight and tomorrow. I said in the past that "one good day" is just a day, "two good days" is a good start, and "three good days" is the beginning to a good streak.
Today's day 3.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Called Out
Yesterday's Starting Weigh In: 283.6
Today's Weigh In: 283.0
Total Lost: 0.6 pounds, 10.4 to go
From Billy's blog:
Rob Tucker.
Weighing in somewhere around 281 lbs, this master of motivation has been spinning his wheels for months. Will he step up to face the "Ocean's 11" challenge? Or will he recede into the background, yet another weight-loss "could-have been"?
So, I get called out.
I've been looking for a reason to get my ass in gear for months now. For the past few months, I've been a shell of what I used to be, and a shadow of what my potential was. I'm not sure how that happened, but with some stressful events in my life and a incredibly crazy schedule, that was a perfect backdrop for a wall of excuses.
I stopped blogging because I was tired of writing about the same failures, and I knew that you guys were tired of hearing about me failing. But, instead of fixing the behavior, I pouted about it and just gave up. I think of all things - even more than the weight gain, that part bothers me the most - the fact that instead of fighting, I kind of gave up.
So, I get called out on it.
The challenge is on, my friends. I read about this yesterday and wanted to kick it into gear yesterday, so I ate right, worked out (even though it was a small workout), but then I spent a few hours coaching football/basketball at Erin's end-of-year picnic with all the 1st, 3rd and 4th graders. I then went to soccer and coached there as well, so I had a good cardio day.
Today, I hit the gym early, and got a good workout in for once. I'm at work all day on a Friday (the 13th by the way), and have 10 hours to find any excuse to eat the horrible food that lays around here. Instead, I had grapes for breakfast (it's incredibly how filling they can be), I brought a yogurt with me to eat around 10am, I have my chili read to rock around 1pm, and then a few smart snacks to get me through the day.
A race to 11 pounds? Ocean's 11? I haven't seen the movie, but I know the ending to this one. I've been to 272.6 a few times, I know that ground well. It's time to revisit.
Thanks to those of you who haven't given up on me - you may have just saved me from disaster.
Today's Weigh In: 283.0
Total Lost: 0.6 pounds, 10.4 to go
From Billy's blog:
Rob Tucker.
Weighing in somewhere around 281 lbs, this master of motivation has been spinning his wheels for months. Will he step up to face the "Ocean's 11" challenge? Or will he recede into the background, yet another weight-loss "could-have been"?
So, I get called out.
I've been looking for a reason to get my ass in gear for months now. For the past few months, I've been a shell of what I used to be, and a shadow of what my potential was. I'm not sure how that happened, but with some stressful events in my life and a incredibly crazy schedule, that was a perfect backdrop for a wall of excuses.
I stopped blogging because I was tired of writing about the same failures, and I knew that you guys were tired of hearing about me failing. But, instead of fixing the behavior, I pouted about it and just gave up. I think of all things - even more than the weight gain, that part bothers me the most - the fact that instead of fighting, I kind of gave up.
So, I get called out on it.
The challenge is on, my friends. I read about this yesterday and wanted to kick it into gear yesterday, so I ate right, worked out (even though it was a small workout), but then I spent a few hours coaching football/basketball at Erin's end-of-year picnic with all the 1st, 3rd and 4th graders. I then went to soccer and coached there as well, so I had a good cardio day.
Today, I hit the gym early, and got a good workout in for once. I'm at work all day on a Friday (the 13th by the way), and have 10 hours to find any excuse to eat the horrible food that lays around here. Instead, I had grapes for breakfast (it's incredibly how filling they can be), I brought a yogurt with me to eat around 10am, I have my chili read to rock around 1pm, and then a few smart snacks to get me through the day.
A race to 11 pounds? Ocean's 11? I haven't seen the movie, but I know the ending to this one. I've been to 272.6 a few times, I know that ground well. It's time to revisit.
Thanks to those of you who haven't given up on me - you may have just saved me from disaster.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Brainwashing
I haven't posted for over a week, and it's not for lack of trying.
I've been trying to push myself to the limits, and it's funny the games that your mind and body will play with you. For example.. on Saturday I went to the gym in the morning, mowed the lawn (it was 95 degrees with 95% humidity - I POURED sweat), and then I went on a 17-18 mile bike ride. I ate flawlessly.
My weight went up 2 pounds.
That's not the type of thing the struggling dieter needs to see.
I've been really focusing on getting the eating in check and getting my mental state better. It's been a rough road lately, and my moods in regards to weight loss have been all over the map. I've gone from being SUPER dedication and feeling good about it - that 'challenging' myself mode, to the 'barely hanging on' mode, to the 'who cares, I'll eat it tomorrow' mode.
I've been staying away from the blogs lately because I know this mental struggle is boring to read about. You can only say "I'm gonna.." a hundred times and get the same response from you guys. You already know what I'm going to write, and I already know what your comments are going to say.
And you're right - and I'm struggling, but I haven't given up. It's still going strong, no matter what the scale says.
I've been trying to push myself to the limits, and it's funny the games that your mind and body will play with you. For example.. on Saturday I went to the gym in the morning, mowed the lawn (it was 95 degrees with 95% humidity - I POURED sweat), and then I went on a 17-18 mile bike ride. I ate flawlessly.
My weight went up 2 pounds.
That's not the type of thing the struggling dieter needs to see.
I've been really focusing on getting the eating in check and getting my mental state better. It's been a rough road lately, and my moods in regards to weight loss have been all over the map. I've gone from being SUPER dedication and feeling good about it - that 'challenging' myself mode, to the 'barely hanging on' mode, to the 'who cares, I'll eat it tomorrow' mode.
I've been staying away from the blogs lately because I know this mental struggle is boring to read about. You can only say "I'm gonna.." a hundred times and get the same response from you guys. You already know what I'm going to write, and I already know what your comments are going to say.
And you're right - and I'm struggling, but I haven't given up. It's still going strong, no matter what the scale says.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Running, Eating
Weigh In: 281.4
Time: 33.11
Jim and I ran the 5k Race for the Cure this year and we decided to run it together instead of 'racing' each other. Pretty damn proud of him. I waited a day in case he wanted to brag about it but I'll brag about it FOR him. He shaved like 10 minutes off of his race time since last year, and it was the first time he's done a non-treadmill 5k non-stop. That's incredible, so I'm big time proud of him. I'm proud of myself too - I haven't really ran that much lately and my weight has been going the wrong way, so for me to be able to even finish this race (especially with my bum hip), I'm patting myself on the back.
But exercise isn't my vice - it's my eating.
So, I get to brag about something else.
Had a graduation party today, and you know how they do food at those things. For lunch, I totally skipped the dogs and burgers and worked on sides. So, for my meal I had carrots, broccoli, 2 dill pickle slices, some cut up fruit and homemade coleslaw.
Winner.
Night's not over but we're home from the party and I'll be able to eat a dinner that makes sense. I have to keep this mentality going - everything else is a waste of my time.
Time: 33.11
Jim and I ran the 5k Race for the Cure this year and we decided to run it together instead of 'racing' each other. Pretty damn proud of him. I waited a day in case he wanted to brag about it but I'll brag about it FOR him. He shaved like 10 minutes off of his race time since last year, and it was the first time he's done a non-treadmill 5k non-stop. That's incredible, so I'm big time proud of him. I'm proud of myself too - I haven't really ran that much lately and my weight has been going the wrong way, so for me to be able to even finish this race (especially with my bum hip), I'm patting myself on the back.
But exercise isn't my vice - it's my eating.
So, I get to brag about something else.
Had a graduation party today, and you know how they do food at those things. For lunch, I totally skipped the dogs and burgers and worked on sides. So, for my meal I had carrots, broccoli, 2 dill pickle slices, some cut up fruit and homemade coleslaw.
Winner.
Night's not over but we're home from the party and I'll be able to eat a dinner that makes sense. I have to keep this mentality going - everything else is a waste of my time.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Elimination Game
Weigh In: 281.4
I went to the Pistons/Celtics Game 6 tonight and sat about 15 rows from the court, dead center half court. Great seats, great venue, and most of the night was a great game.
The Pistons started slow but started to figure it out. They struggled but kept it close going into halftime. The third quarter came, they found their 5th gear and ROARED to a 10 point lead going into the 4th. In the fourth, it seemed like they let the foot off the gas, Boston caught up and ended up winning the game - eliminating the Pistons from the playoffs.
With 1:35 left in the game, the Pistons were down 6. It was a time-out, and about a one minute break in the action. I'm standing up looking at the scoreboard and I'm getting pissed. I think to myself, "we had this - we were rolling. We let our foot off the gas and the lead we had was pissed away. We were so close to winning but complacent and let the Celtics back into this game".
And then it clicks.
I'm the Detroit Pistons of weight loss.
I did great during the regular season. The last 6 years the Pistons have made the Eastern Conference. I've made it to 269 pounds like 6 times. Each time the Pistons got there, they let their foot off the gas, lost the ground, and struggled to regain that ground. I've let my foot off the gas, lost the ground, and struggled to regain those lost pounds.
The Pistons' season is over because of their complacency. I've been half assing it for months.
I know I've said this, but hopefully I mean it.
I'm running the 5k Race for the Cure tomorrow. I've got my pills, I've been doing a bit of running lately and I've been feeling OK, so I'm going to go for it. And when I get home, I'm going to carry that momenteum in the third quarter. I'm going to a graduation party this Sunday and I AM GOING TO EAT PERFECT. None of this "just a little bit" shit.
I hit 286 pounds this week. Let me spell that out. Two hunderd and EIGHTY SIX pounds.
There's no excuse for that. I'm not lazy in ANY other aspect of my life, but I'm being lazy with this.
Stops now. I'm not getting eliminated this post season.
I went to the Pistons/Celtics Game 6 tonight and sat about 15 rows from the court, dead center half court. Great seats, great venue, and most of the night was a great game.
The Pistons started slow but started to figure it out. They struggled but kept it close going into halftime. The third quarter came, they found their 5th gear and ROARED to a 10 point lead going into the 4th. In the fourth, it seemed like they let the foot off the gas, Boston caught up and ended up winning the game - eliminating the Pistons from the playoffs.
With 1:35 left in the game, the Pistons were down 6. It was a time-out, and about a one minute break in the action. I'm standing up looking at the scoreboard and I'm getting pissed. I think to myself, "we had this - we were rolling. We let our foot off the gas and the lead we had was pissed away. We were so close to winning but complacent and let the Celtics back into this game".
And then it clicks.
I'm the Detroit Pistons of weight loss.
I did great during the regular season. The last 6 years the Pistons have made the Eastern Conference. I've made it to 269 pounds like 6 times. Each time the Pistons got there, they let their foot off the gas, lost the ground, and struggled to regain that ground. I've let my foot off the gas, lost the ground, and struggled to regain those lost pounds.
The Pistons' season is over because of their complacency. I've been half assing it for months.
I know I've said this, but hopefully I mean it.
I'm running the 5k Race for the Cure tomorrow. I've got my pills, I've been doing a bit of running lately and I've been feeling OK, so I'm going to go for it. And when I get home, I'm going to carry that momenteum in the third quarter. I'm going to a graduation party this Sunday and I AM GOING TO EAT PERFECT. None of this "just a little bit" shit.
I hit 286 pounds this week. Let me spell that out. Two hunderd and EIGHTY SIX pounds.
There's no excuse for that. I'm not lazy in ANY other aspect of my life, but I'm being lazy with this.
Stops now. I'm not getting eliminated this post season.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Posting for Rip
Because Rip chewed my ass, I know I have to post soon or he's coming over to the house and kicking the door down :)
I went to the doc two days ago and long story made short, the hip problem that I've had was a pinched nerve between the F4 and F5 vertebrae (am I saying that right, I don't remember if that's right or not), and then there's 'severe inflammation' around the nerve. So, he gave me some anti-inflammatory drugs and set me up for 2 weeks of Physical Therapy. I've never done PT before, so I'm a bit interested in seeing what that's all about.
Since I've been taking the drugs, it seems to be helping. I went for a 2 mile run yesterday, hit the gym today, did my soccer coaching thing and running around, and then have a softball doubleheader tonight, so I'll keep busy. Eating has been "OK' - not stellar, but not bad - but I really need to get it locked in. My brain keeps telling me that I'm in maintenance mode, that's how I'm acting, and it's really, REALLY hard to get out of that mode once I've slipped in.
I need to start doing MORE. Feel more 'athletic'. I've got my bike in the back seat of my SUV (if you can call a Saturn VUE an SUV) just trying to get the seat fixed so I can start biking to work (about 8 miles). I need to do more runs. I need to get back in the gym MORE. I'm doing "OK", and it's clear that OK isn't enough.
Another day goes by, and it's another day that I'm stagnant. That bothers me, but it's easier to blog about than it is to do something about it.
At least I blogged today so Rip has to wait until tomorrow to beat me down again ;)
(In all seriousness, I really, really appreciate you guys getting on my ass. It's what I need right now).
I went to the doc two days ago and long story made short, the hip problem that I've had was a pinched nerve between the F4 and F5 vertebrae (am I saying that right, I don't remember if that's right or not), and then there's 'severe inflammation' around the nerve. So, he gave me some anti-inflammatory drugs and set me up for 2 weeks of Physical Therapy. I've never done PT before, so I'm a bit interested in seeing what that's all about.
Since I've been taking the drugs, it seems to be helping. I went for a 2 mile run yesterday, hit the gym today, did my soccer coaching thing and running around, and then have a softball doubleheader tonight, so I'll keep busy. Eating has been "OK' - not stellar, but not bad - but I really need to get it locked in. My brain keeps telling me that I'm in maintenance mode, that's how I'm acting, and it's really, REALLY hard to get out of that mode once I've slipped in.
I need to start doing MORE. Feel more 'athletic'. I've got my bike in the back seat of my SUV (if you can call a Saturn VUE an SUV) just trying to get the seat fixed so I can start biking to work (about 8 miles). I need to do more runs. I need to get back in the gym MORE. I'm doing "OK", and it's clear that OK isn't enough.
Another day goes by, and it's another day that I'm stagnant. That bothers me, but it's easier to blog about than it is to do something about it.
At least I blogged today so Rip has to wait until tomorrow to beat me down again ;)
(In all seriousness, I really, really appreciate you guys getting on my ass. It's what I need right now).
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Quick Holiday Blog
Weigh In: 279.8
Quick one, I just have to get SOMETHING in. Had a good workout this morning with Erin, went to breakfast (ended up with a mushroom/cheese omelet and 1 pancake) - and then off to the grocery store. From there, I worked outside ALL DAY. Just walked in the door about 15 minutes ago (it's now 9:45pm) - would have been working more if I didn't run out of sunlight.
Planted flowers, hauled dirt and mulch, raked/mowed the lawn, you name it. I'm flipping exhausted right now. Frankly, I can't see how I CAN'T lose weight tonight.
My body's beat up big time - just drained, but I got a ton accomplished today. Tomorrow - at the church at 7:45am for a performance at 8:30, another one at 11, and then back to the yard to finishing the trimming, fix the deck (a plank coming up) and a few more lawn related deals. Then, HUGE BBQ family bash on Memorial Day.
Happy Memorial Day weekend, folks.
Quick one, I just have to get SOMETHING in. Had a good workout this morning with Erin, went to breakfast (ended up with a mushroom/cheese omelet and 1 pancake) - and then off to the grocery store. From there, I worked outside ALL DAY. Just walked in the door about 15 minutes ago (it's now 9:45pm) - would have been working more if I didn't run out of sunlight.
Planted flowers, hauled dirt and mulch, raked/mowed the lawn, you name it. I'm flipping exhausted right now. Frankly, I can't see how I CAN'T lose weight tonight.
My body's beat up big time - just drained, but I got a ton accomplished today. Tomorrow - at the church at 7:45am for a performance at 8:30, another one at 11, and then back to the yard to finishing the trimming, fix the deck (a plank coming up) and a few more lawn related deals. Then, HUGE BBQ family bash on Memorial Day.
Happy Memorial Day weekend, folks.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Keeping Accountable
Hey guys - honestly, it's just been a 'getting to a computer' thing - I've actually been doing well. Thanks for the comments in the blog pushing me to post - that means a lot.
Last two weigh ins: 279.8 and 279.4 today.
Food's on target, have had turkey burgers and salmon grilled the last two nights, been having turkey chili for lunch (smart one's lunch today, didn't have time to make chili) with cereal for breakfast.
Had a concert last night that lasted until 9:30, came home and watched a quarter of the Pistons before falling asleep on the couch. The next few nights are going to be the same way - Tigers game (we're going) tonight, won't see the house before 10pm, then teaching lessons on Thursday night, then Friday we're going to another Tiger's game, and then Memorial Day weekend - one of my favorite weekends of the entire year.
Doing well - just haven't blogged. THANK YOU for keeping me accountable!
Last two weigh ins: 279.8 and 279.4 today.
Food's on target, have had turkey burgers and salmon grilled the last two nights, been having turkey chili for lunch (smart one's lunch today, didn't have time to make chili) with cereal for breakfast.
Had a concert last night that lasted until 9:30, came home and watched a quarter of the Pistons before falling asleep on the couch. The next few nights are going to be the same way - Tigers game (we're going) tonight, won't see the house before 10pm, then teaching lessons on Thursday night, then Friday we're going to another Tiger's game, and then Memorial Day weekend - one of my favorite weekends of the entire year.
Doing well - just haven't blogged. THANK YOU for keeping me accountable!
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Turning Point?
8:00am weigh in: 281.2
Beers at night, playing games with friends until 12:30am, and then the Taco Bell run - where you order food just because you want it - knowing DAMN WELL what's going to happen in the morning.
Been there?
I'm tired of being there. Went there again last night night - so the weight SOARED. No surprise, and it's pretty much what I deserve.
I don't know what's going on - but this morning I feel different. I read a few articles in Men's Health this morning that inspired me a little bit, and went to the gym today and completely kicked my own ass - had a bit of the anger come back that pushed me to the point where my arms are so sore that if we were doing the YMCA dance, I could only do the M and the C.
I had 2 scrambled eggs and 2 pieces of toast for breakfast. I didn't even feel like eating that as I was so disgusted with my Taco Bell binge just 7 hours earlier. We went running errands, then to the gym, and I just wrapped up mowing the lawn, and Erin brought me out a PB&J on wheat while I was mowing. Had a bottled water with it.
I'm hungry right now, but I don't want to eat. I don't know if it's a 'punishment' or my body still cringing the Chalupas, Tacos and "Cheese Roll". It's called a freaking CHEESE ROLL, and I had one at 1am? Stupid.
So I feel like I'm at a breaking point. I've said this so many times where I don't know if I believe it or not, but maybe something clicked. I've been going through some stuff online, thinking about joining a health class at the gym, getting more into that mindset. I miss it. I can't just go to the gym with no purpose, work out hard and then eat like shit. It makes no freaking sense.
So, turning point, or all talk? We'll see where the rest of the week takes me.
Beers at night, playing games with friends until 12:30am, and then the Taco Bell run - where you order food just because you want it - knowing DAMN WELL what's going to happen in the morning.
Been there?
I'm tired of being there. Went there again last night night - so the weight SOARED. No surprise, and it's pretty much what I deserve.
I don't know what's going on - but this morning I feel different. I read a few articles in Men's Health this morning that inspired me a little bit, and went to the gym today and completely kicked my own ass - had a bit of the anger come back that pushed me to the point where my arms are so sore that if we were doing the YMCA dance, I could only do the M and the C.
I had 2 scrambled eggs and 2 pieces of toast for breakfast. I didn't even feel like eating that as I was so disgusted with my Taco Bell binge just 7 hours earlier. We went running errands, then to the gym, and I just wrapped up mowing the lawn, and Erin brought me out a PB&J on wheat while I was mowing. Had a bottled water with it.
I'm hungry right now, but I don't want to eat. I don't know if it's a 'punishment' or my body still cringing the Chalupas, Tacos and "Cheese Roll". It's called a freaking CHEESE ROLL, and I had one at 1am? Stupid.
So I feel like I'm at a breaking point. I've said this so many times where I don't know if I believe it or not, but maybe something clicked. I've been going through some stuff online, thinking about joining a health class at the gym, getting more into that mindset. I miss it. I can't just go to the gym with no purpose, work out hard and then eat like shit. It makes no freaking sense.
So, turning point, or all talk? We'll see where the rest of the week takes me.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Morning vs. Night
Weigh In: 277.4
So far, so good - came down a bit this morning. Was happy with that.
I'm discovering something about how my body works lately - I think that I need to start doing more activity at night. My body seems to react well to afternoon/night exercise. I get my morning work in, but for example - yesterday I didn't work out in the morning. Gave myself a breather because I knew I'd have time to exercise later. Risky, because there was a chance I'd just skip it since it wasn't 'habit' for me to work out during the day, but it worked. Played soccer with the 3-4 year olds, played softball and hit the gym for some cardio, all after 2pm. It's an entirely different world exercising when the sun is up.
The hip's still acting up - I'm starting to accept the fact that I should probably have it checked out. I don't have the time or desire to go see a doctor, but I may have to end up sucking it up. Joy.
Anyway, wanted to blog during the day while I had a few minutes.
So far, so good - came down a bit this morning. Was happy with that.
I'm discovering something about how my body works lately - I think that I need to start doing more activity at night. My body seems to react well to afternoon/night exercise. I get my morning work in, but for example - yesterday I didn't work out in the morning. Gave myself a breather because I knew I'd have time to exercise later. Risky, because there was a chance I'd just skip it since it wasn't 'habit' for me to work out during the day, but it worked. Played soccer with the 3-4 year olds, played softball and hit the gym for some cardio, all after 2pm. It's an entirely different world exercising when the sun is up.
The hip's still acting up - I'm starting to accept the fact that I should probably have it checked out. I don't have the time or desire to go see a doctor, but I may have to end up sucking it up. Joy.
Anyway, wanted to blog during the day while I had a few minutes.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Neutral
Weigh In: 279.8
Another quick one tonight - completely exhausted.
I'm still fighting this urge to eat everything in the cupboards. I don't know what it is - but it's a battle I'm milimeters from failing at. I don't know why I constantly am thinking about the next meal - the next anything- that I can stuff down my piehole, but it's all I've been thinking.
I'm doing well - in the gym, played softball tonight (triple, sweet), and did my youth soccer thing which meant I was running around chasing 3 and 4 year olds down for 45 minutes. It's a workout.
But I'm stalemated. It's like I'm winning half of the tug of war, and I'm losing miserably at the other side. I'm locked in at 279 and that's just rediculous.
Add to this that the hip's been giving me some grief lately (I don't even want to think about how it's going to feel when I wake up in the AM), and it makes for high levels of frustration. But, I have to keep going - keep focused, and get the eating on track. I just can't quit.
Another quick one tonight - completely exhausted.
I'm still fighting this urge to eat everything in the cupboards. I don't know what it is - but it's a battle I'm milimeters from failing at. I don't know why I constantly am thinking about the next meal - the next anything- that I can stuff down my piehole, but it's all I've been thinking.
I'm doing well - in the gym, played softball tonight (triple, sweet), and did my youth soccer thing which meant I was running around chasing 3 and 4 year olds down for 45 minutes. It's a workout.
But I'm stalemated. It's like I'm winning half of the tug of war, and I'm losing miserably at the other side. I'm locked in at 279 and that's just rediculous.
Add to this that the hip's been giving me some grief lately (I don't even want to think about how it's going to feel when I wake up in the AM), and it makes for high levels of frustration. But, I have to keep going - keep focused, and get the eating on track. I just can't quit.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Gotta Keep Posting
Yesterday's Weigh In: 279.4
Today's Weigh In: 279.8
Sorry I didn't post yesterday, my intentions are to get back to posting every day. Got busy, ended up working on business until 10:30pm last night, and then straight to bed. Had the Pistons game going on in the background so it slowed progress a little bit ;)
I'm "back" under 280 but I don't think that's something to celebrate. I don't even want to think of it, actually.
I went out for a run this morning - I get a lot more out of it than I do hitting the treadmill or eliptical, but I've been having issues with my right hip for the past 5-6 months, I get really stiff when I run. I've been kind of hobbling around today as it's super stiff. One of these days I'm going to have to get it checked out - I'm not sure what the story is. Picture running (and yes, stretching it out and cooling it down) but the front-right part of the hip tightens up like a rubber band in a freezer. Pain in the butt - won't keep me from running though.
Not much else to report, just got into the office but wanted to post SOMETHING.
Today's Weigh In: 279.8
Sorry I didn't post yesterday, my intentions are to get back to posting every day. Got busy, ended up working on business until 10:30pm last night, and then straight to bed. Had the Pistons game going on in the background so it slowed progress a little bit ;)
I'm "back" under 280 but I don't think that's something to celebrate. I don't even want to think of it, actually.
I went out for a run this morning - I get a lot more out of it than I do hitting the treadmill or eliptical, but I've been having issues with my right hip for the past 5-6 months, I get really stiff when I run. I've been kind of hobbling around today as it's super stiff. One of these days I'm going to have to get it checked out - I'm not sure what the story is. Picture running (and yes, stretching it out and cooling it down) but the front-right part of the hip tightens up like a rubber band in a freezer. Pain in the butt - won't keep me from running though.
Not much else to report, just got into the office but wanted to post SOMETHING.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Truth In Advertising
I wanted to start keeping myself accountable to you folks again - this means reporting my weigh ins. The sharp ones have noticed I've intentionally kept it off of the board. Frankly, I'm pretty ashamed of myself for it. But if I'm going to get back on the road, I have to have a map. So, here goes nothing.
Today's Weigh In: 282.4
That's just rediculous to me. I was so frustrated with myself over the past few weeks that I felt it completely steamroll me. One bad meal in an otherwise good day turned into a bad night. That bad night turned into me remembering how good it is to eat fried food. Next thing you know, I'm justifying popcorn shrimp and boneless barbequed buffalo wings because the chicken tenders I got with it (oh, and 44 ounces of Samuel Adams) were grilled.
And it wasn't just one meal - I've felt it spiral out of control. I've felt that helpless feeling of "well, I've already f'ed the goat today, I might as well have (fill in the blank). I felt each day that I slipped farther and farther away from 270 added to the hopelessness. Then I saw 279 and thought that I'd line it up. And then I had a shitty weekend. So I'm rewarded with the 280's again.
That's how I yo-yo dieted for years. I can't allow myself to fall into that trap again.
So today I decided to get back into gear - I know I've heard myself say that a hundred times. I've been ashamed of myself lately - I didn't want to say "I'm going to do this again!" because I know what you all are thinking. I'm thinking it too - HOW MANY TIMES IS HE GOING TO SAY THIS INSTEAD OF DO THIS?
I know. And I don't know the answer. I don't know the "why" that is associated with this entire thing. I only know that I have to link a few good days together before I can even talk about being "back".
Today, I had a small bowl of Raisin Bran Crunch for breakfast, 2 bananas and turkey chili for lunch, oatmeal as a snack at work, some almonds before dinner, and baked salmon with salad and corn on the cob for dinner.
One day at a time. I promise that I'll try and catch up on everyone's blogs ASAP as well - been a horrible blog buddy this month. Currently, I am 97 blogs back. Daunting - but you guys have earned the right to be read. I'll get to you, sooner than later.
Today's Weigh In: 282.4
That's just rediculous to me. I was so frustrated with myself over the past few weeks that I felt it completely steamroll me. One bad meal in an otherwise good day turned into a bad night. That bad night turned into me remembering how good it is to eat fried food. Next thing you know, I'm justifying popcorn shrimp and boneless barbequed buffalo wings because the chicken tenders I got with it (oh, and 44 ounces of Samuel Adams) were grilled.
And it wasn't just one meal - I've felt it spiral out of control. I've felt that helpless feeling of "well, I've already f'ed the goat today, I might as well have (fill in the blank). I felt each day that I slipped farther and farther away from 270 added to the hopelessness. Then I saw 279 and thought that I'd line it up. And then I had a shitty weekend. So I'm rewarded with the 280's again.
That's how I yo-yo dieted for years. I can't allow myself to fall into that trap again.
So today I decided to get back into gear - I know I've heard myself say that a hundred times. I've been ashamed of myself lately - I didn't want to say "I'm going to do this again!" because I know what you all are thinking. I'm thinking it too - HOW MANY TIMES IS HE GOING TO SAY THIS INSTEAD OF DO THIS?
I know. And I don't know the answer. I don't know the "why" that is associated with this entire thing. I only know that I have to link a few good days together before I can even talk about being "back".
Today, I had a small bowl of Raisin Bran Crunch for breakfast, 2 bananas and turkey chili for lunch, oatmeal as a snack at work, some almonds before dinner, and baked salmon with salad and corn on the cob for dinner.
One day at a time. I promise that I'll try and catch up on everyone's blogs ASAP as well - been a horrible blog buddy this month. Currently, I am 97 blogs back. Daunting - but you guys have earned the right to be read. I'll get to you, sooner than later.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
A week already?
It's hard to believe it's been a week since I've posted. I've wanted to, I've actually sat down and hit the "compose" button a few times - but I've had nothing to say.
Tell me if you've heard this one before:
"I'm busy, hardly have time for anything - been working out a lot, hardly missing a day in the gym. The problem is that my eating has been bad - I eat well most of the day, and then there's always one point where I screw it up. I'm not feeling motivated right now, but I'm going to start RIGHT NOW, and everything is going to be great! Back at it starting NOW!"
Heard that one from me before?
I need to get it to stick. I'm not sure why, but I'm fighting the stagnant lifestyle again. Went to two mother's day parties today and just ate bad. Side dishes, cheeseburgers (yes, plural - one at each), cheese and crackers, cupcakes... just out of control. And I have this thing in my head where there's a mental battle.. the "you're doing so bad you might as well keep eating" - and the "what the HELL are you doing to yourself?!?"
The war isn't over, and I've won a bunch of battles in the past. The past few months - this army is on its heels, backed into a corner.
This week will be a test for me. Do I want it - or am I weak enough to 'settle' for where I am?
Get on me folks - I really need you guys.
Tell me if you've heard this one before:
"I'm busy, hardly have time for anything - been working out a lot, hardly missing a day in the gym. The problem is that my eating has been bad - I eat well most of the day, and then there's always one point where I screw it up. I'm not feeling motivated right now, but I'm going to start RIGHT NOW, and everything is going to be great! Back at it starting NOW!"
Heard that one from me before?
I need to get it to stick. I'm not sure why, but I'm fighting the stagnant lifestyle again. Went to two mother's day parties today and just ate bad. Side dishes, cheeseburgers (yes, plural - one at each), cheese and crackers, cupcakes... just out of control. And I have this thing in my head where there's a mental battle.. the "you're doing so bad you might as well keep eating" - and the "what the HELL are you doing to yourself?!?"
The war isn't over, and I've won a bunch of battles in the past. The past few months - this army is on its heels, backed into a corner.
This week will be a test for me. Do I want it - or am I weak enough to 'settle' for where I am?
Get on me folks - I really need you guys.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb
After last night's poor decisions, I made up with some great ones today.
Gary and his new son Brennan got baptized today, and afterwards they had a party at their house. Fried foods all over the place: fried chicken, fried potatoes, french fries, cakes.. you name it, not a healthy choice in the house.
So, I didn't eat. I had a peanut butter/jelly rollup when I got home.
Went to dinner tonight.
Had broiled cod and green beans w/ diet Coke.
I have to get back into this mentality that I HAVE to sacrifice - and that it's the only way things are going to get done.
So I did well today.
Gary and his new son Brennan got baptized today, and afterwards they had a party at their house. Fried foods all over the place: fried chicken, fried potatoes, french fries, cakes.. you name it, not a healthy choice in the house.
So, I didn't eat. I had a peanut butter/jelly rollup when I got home.
Went to dinner tonight.
Had broiled cod and green beans w/ diet Coke.
I have to get back into this mentality that I HAVE to sacrifice - and that it's the only way things are going to get done.
So I did well today.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Slap Me
Weigh In: 275.6
Believe it or not, that above weigh in is the best I've seen since I last reported a weight about 2 weeks ago.
Not much to say again today - I probably should be more down on myself than I am. I had a great start to my day - a GREAT workout, healthy breakfast, healthy lunch, healthy snacks, and then we went to dinner - healthy salad.
Then, went to the bar and had nachos. Not a ton of them, but enough that I should be pissed at myself. Erin and I split one - and she gave me the glare when I ordered them, but as we were working them down, about 2/3 of the way, she put the napkin on the plate and had the waiter take them away. I also had a tall Sam Adams Summer Ale - not the greatest one Adams has ever made, but definitely a pretty good beer.
The problem isn't as much the nachos - it's the lackadaisical attitude I have about it. I feel no 'remorse' at all. THAT is where the problem is, and I know it. It's a mental game, and I can't say I'm LOSING it - it's that I'm not even showing up the field.
Believe it or not, that above weigh in is the best I've seen since I last reported a weight about 2 weeks ago.
Not much to say again today - I probably should be more down on myself than I am. I had a great start to my day - a GREAT workout, healthy breakfast, healthy lunch, healthy snacks, and then we went to dinner - healthy salad.
Then, went to the bar and had nachos. Not a ton of them, but enough that I should be pissed at myself. Erin and I split one - and she gave me the glare when I ordered them, but as we were working them down, about 2/3 of the way, she put the napkin on the plate and had the waiter take them away. I also had a tall Sam Adams Summer Ale - not the greatest one Adams has ever made, but definitely a pretty good beer.
The problem isn't as much the nachos - it's the lackadaisical attitude I have about it. I feel no 'remorse' at all. THAT is where the problem is, and I know it. It's a mental game, and I can't say I'm LOSING it - it's that I'm not even showing up the field.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Short but required
Calories Counted: 2,397
I'm going to make this short and sweet, it's 12:30am and I'm back up and in the gym in a few hours, but I HAD to report my calories - it's after all, Day 1 of restart #42525.
A good day - I ate kind of late, but that's because I've been working my tail off. I got a lot done today, and headed into the weekend it's packed full as usual. But it's fun stuff - softball, the gym, teaching a lesson, church stuff - active lifestyle, right?
So - hopefully I can get into a flow here. Let's see what happens.
I'm going to make this short and sweet, it's 12:30am and I'm back up and in the gym in a few hours, but I HAD to report my calories - it's after all, Day 1 of restart #42525.
A good day - I ate kind of late, but that's because I've been working my tail off. I got a lot done today, and headed into the weekend it's packed full as usual. But it's fun stuff - softball, the gym, teaching a lesson, church stuff - active lifestyle, right?
So - hopefully I can get into a flow here. Let's see what happens.
Old Habits
I started counting calories again today. When I went back into my calorie-count.com profile, I realized it's been since December since I've done this. Back to business.
I don't have much to say - I don't really want to get into this big motivational thing about "I've done it before, I'll do it again.. this is what I'm going to do.. blah blah blah", because I know you all are as tired of hearing it as I am of saying it. Hell, I've even said *THAT* thirty times before.
It's hard to stay diligent over a long period of time like this. When I look back, I've been doing this weight loss and blog thing for a YEAR AND A HALF. This will be my 460th blog entry. Part of me wants to be impressed by that - the fact that over the long haul, I've stuck to this. Another part of me is just frustrated that in all this time and blogs I've still not figured out how to be consistent with this whole thing.
I make the same mistakes, over and over again. I go strong for a few weeks, hit a milestone that I'm proud of, and then lay off and lose the milestone, just to go back and have to chase it again. I don't know why, and I can't explain it.
So.. here we go again? I'm going back to counting my calories - ALL my calories. I've already established that I'm strong in the gym (cranked it out again today), so it's all on my ability to eat smart.
Now, if I could only get to the 45 unread blogs in my Google Reader.. I'm trying folks, I've been a piss poor blog buddy lately. Hang in there with me.
I don't have much to say - I don't really want to get into this big motivational thing about "I've done it before, I'll do it again.. this is what I'm going to do.. blah blah blah", because I know you all are as tired of hearing it as I am of saying it. Hell, I've even said *THAT* thirty times before.
It's hard to stay diligent over a long period of time like this. When I look back, I've been doing this weight loss and blog thing for a YEAR AND A HALF. This will be my 460th blog entry. Part of me wants to be impressed by that - the fact that over the long haul, I've stuck to this. Another part of me is just frustrated that in all this time and blogs I've still not figured out how to be consistent with this whole thing.
I make the same mistakes, over and over again. I go strong for a few weeks, hit a milestone that I'm proud of, and then lay off and lose the milestone, just to go back and have to chase it again. I don't know why, and I can't explain it.
So.. here we go again? I'm going back to counting my calories - ALL my calories. I've already established that I'm strong in the gym (cranked it out again today), so it's all on my ability to eat smart.
Now, if I could only get to the 45 unread blogs in my Google Reader.. I'm trying folks, I've been a piss poor blog buddy lately. Hang in there with me.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Rut-Ro
I talked to Kevin tonight, Erin's been on me, a few of you have asked, and I've been wondering myself.
Why haven't I blogged?
I don't know. I just have been dragging ass and feeling completely motivated. This is the tough, yet confusing, part for me.
I work out SEVEN days a week. I play basketball on Tuesdays, softball the past few Saturdays, go for runs, bike rides with my wife - I'm active. I'm REALLY active, and I feel great about it.
But my eating is piss poor. And I don't mean 'cheat' meals. I eat the right stuff. I'm just eating a LOT of it. My serving sizes are WAY too big - I go back for seconds when I don't want them, I pick all day, I grab all the snacky shit at work and at school. Kid at school offers me a brownie? Sure, pass it along. Work has cake for someone's birthday? Pass it to me.
I *NEVER* fell into that. My problem was always the fast food and the bad stuff in large quantities. Now, it seems like I'm always hungry, and I've fallen back into the thing where I start thinking about the next meal the MOMENT this one's done. I'm falling back into these old feelings of weakness and self doubt, and I really don't like myself right now.
I've seen everything form 268 to 282 these past two weeks. It's infuriating. Right now, I'm somewhere in the middle. Hell, I've even been avoiding my SCALE. And for those of you who have read my blog more than once, you know how much I'm obsessed by that damn thing.
Either way, maybe it's turning around. I got two hours of GOOD basketball in tonight, and I came home wanting to eat (of course). Instead, it's gatorade and that's it. Softball is starting up, and I got my "Race for the Cure" packet in the mail. 5k race at the end of the month - I should start preparing and getting in the mood for it.
So - hang in there with me. I know, this is the same old story. It's just a matter of picking myself up - slapping myself in the face to get rid of the pity party, and moving forward. At least the active lifestyle is winning. Now, I need the healthy eating lifestyle part to be figured out. Keep pushing me.
Why haven't I blogged?
I don't know. I just have been dragging ass and feeling completely motivated. This is the tough, yet confusing, part for me.
I work out SEVEN days a week. I play basketball on Tuesdays, softball the past few Saturdays, go for runs, bike rides with my wife - I'm active. I'm REALLY active, and I feel great about it.
But my eating is piss poor. And I don't mean 'cheat' meals. I eat the right stuff. I'm just eating a LOT of it. My serving sizes are WAY too big - I go back for seconds when I don't want them, I pick all day, I grab all the snacky shit at work and at school. Kid at school offers me a brownie? Sure, pass it along. Work has cake for someone's birthday? Pass it to me.
I *NEVER* fell into that. My problem was always the fast food and the bad stuff in large quantities. Now, it seems like I'm always hungry, and I've fallen back into the thing where I start thinking about the next meal the MOMENT this one's done. I'm falling back into these old feelings of weakness and self doubt, and I really don't like myself right now.
I've seen everything form 268 to 282 these past two weeks. It's infuriating. Right now, I'm somewhere in the middle. Hell, I've even been avoiding my SCALE. And for those of you who have read my blog more than once, you know how much I'm obsessed by that damn thing.
Either way, maybe it's turning around. I got two hours of GOOD basketball in tonight, and I came home wanting to eat (of course). Instead, it's gatorade and that's it. Softball is starting up, and I got my "Race for the Cure" packet in the mail. 5k race at the end of the month - I should start preparing and getting in the mood for it.
So - hang in there with me. I know, this is the same old story. It's just a matter of picking myself up - slapping myself in the face to get rid of the pity party, and moving forward. At least the active lifestyle is winning. Now, I need the healthy eating lifestyle part to be figured out. Keep pushing me.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Same Old Song?
Weigh In: 273.4
You could already predict that the weight went up due to me not blogging since Friday.
This isn't going to be the 'poor me' blog, we've all seen this too many times to count. I was talking to Kevin last night playing hoops and he said that he had a feeling that I wasn't doing so well since he hadn't seen a blog from me in a while. That's partially true (ok, about 99% of it), but I've been pretty busy lately too - many nights not seeing the house until after 8 or 9pm, after leaving to start my day at or before 6am. It drains you.
It's a combination of things sometimes that we really have to pay attention to. I wouldn't say that I 'fell off the wagon' and started eating the 'bad food'. I didn't stop working out - in fact, I don't think I've missed a day in the gym in a few weeks, and I've probably been either in the gym or on a long 2-4 mile run 28 out of the past 30 days. I've been pretty good.
Portion sizes and eating later at night is such a trap for me. I do really well all day long - in fact, I probably eat not enough during the day - and perhaps that's the problem. I get home, and I've always had dinner be the full, satisfying meal of the day. My meals have been bigger, I've been having seconds - I even had ice cream a few nights ago at 9:30 at night.
See, the ice cream I don't really have an issue with - I've been able to be faithful to eating it out of the 1/2 cup measuring cup. 140 calories, 2-3 grams of fat. I honestly have no issue with that. But the unscheduled eating of said ice cream at 9:30 at night after having 2 helping of dinner? That's what is not acceptable.
It's easy to keep the eye on the prize when the schedule fits and everything else is working how it's supposed to. The minute you take your eye off the road though - that's when you crash the car.
I'm not being myself up over 273 - but it's kind of disheartening.
Here's some good news - after MONTHS, I finally got Gary back on the program. He signed up at my community center this morning and we're back on track. He went from 280 or so and got down to 236 or something like that while working out with me in the past. He fell off the wagon and ended up gaining the weight back. It sucks, but it's something we've ALL done before.
No shame in that - but you use that as fuel to learn from your mistakes. As I see it - the only person that fails is the one that gives up. He's back with me, and that'll help both of us. For him to even come to me and want to get back into it - I respect the hell out of that. Also, one thing that he mentioned that I will be blatantly stealing is a trick that worked for him. At dinner, instead of using a full sized plate, he uses a small saucer. Whatever he can fit on that saucer, he eats. Total mind trick, and I don't doubt for a second that it works. I'll be stealing that one.
Hope everyone is doing well - keep strong.
You could already predict that the weight went up due to me not blogging since Friday.
This isn't going to be the 'poor me' blog, we've all seen this too many times to count. I was talking to Kevin last night playing hoops and he said that he had a feeling that I wasn't doing so well since he hadn't seen a blog from me in a while. That's partially true (ok, about 99% of it), but I've been pretty busy lately too - many nights not seeing the house until after 8 or 9pm, after leaving to start my day at or before 6am. It drains you.
It's a combination of things sometimes that we really have to pay attention to. I wouldn't say that I 'fell off the wagon' and started eating the 'bad food'. I didn't stop working out - in fact, I don't think I've missed a day in the gym in a few weeks, and I've probably been either in the gym or on a long 2-4 mile run 28 out of the past 30 days. I've been pretty good.
Portion sizes and eating later at night is such a trap for me. I do really well all day long - in fact, I probably eat not enough during the day - and perhaps that's the problem. I get home, and I've always had dinner be the full, satisfying meal of the day. My meals have been bigger, I've been having seconds - I even had ice cream a few nights ago at 9:30 at night.
See, the ice cream I don't really have an issue with - I've been able to be faithful to eating it out of the 1/2 cup measuring cup. 140 calories, 2-3 grams of fat. I honestly have no issue with that. But the unscheduled eating of said ice cream at 9:30 at night after having 2 helping of dinner? That's what is not acceptable.
It's easy to keep the eye on the prize when the schedule fits and everything else is working how it's supposed to. The minute you take your eye off the road though - that's when you crash the car.
I'm not being myself up over 273 - but it's kind of disheartening.
Here's some good news - after MONTHS, I finally got Gary back on the program. He signed up at my community center this morning and we're back on track. He went from 280 or so and got down to 236 or something like that while working out with me in the past. He fell off the wagon and ended up gaining the weight back. It sucks, but it's something we've ALL done before.
No shame in that - but you use that as fuel to learn from your mistakes. As I see it - the only person that fails is the one that gives up. He's back with me, and that'll help both of us. For him to even come to me and want to get back into it - I respect the hell out of that. Also, one thing that he mentioned that I will be blatantly stealing is a trick that worked for him. At dinner, instead of using a full sized plate, he uses a small saucer. Whatever he can fit on that saucer, he eats. Total mind trick, and I don't doubt for a second that it works. I'll be stealing that one.
Hope everyone is doing well - keep strong.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Weekend
Weigh In: 270.2
That kind of sucked. Snuck up again - but I didn't want to feel TOO bad about it. I had a LOOONG night last night where I had two bottled waters after 11pm. Didn't want to eat anything or add calories, but I'm assuming that played a role in seeing the weight go up in the AM.
Lame, but what can you do?
Tomorrow's just as busy - the weekend, the time for "rest", right?
Cutting this short - hoping tomorrow's a little more 'scale' friendly. I've got some weight to drop still.
That kind of sucked. Snuck up again - but I didn't want to feel TOO bad about it. I had a LOOONG night last night where I had two bottled waters after 11pm. Didn't want to eat anything or add calories, but I'm assuming that played a role in seeing the weight go up in the AM.
Lame, but what can you do?
Tomorrow's just as busy - the weekend, the time for "rest", right?
Cutting this short - hoping tomorrow's a little more 'scale' friendly. I've got some weight to drop still.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Ideas?
In my most recent post I talked about a program that I'm going to start running around town. I'm brainstorming ideas on things that would be most helpful.
Basically, we're looking to work with kids and possibly the parents when it comes to almost a "FIT camp" - a combination of exercises, fun activities, nutritional guidance and possible motivational speakers and tips to help these families eat and live healthier lives.
I'm thinking of what we've done in the past - and things that may have worked for you, that you think would benefit a program like this. We're talking about working with the families from within - both with the kids to show them that sports can be fun (some of these kids would feel uncomfortable playing with their 'healthy' peers), and we also want to approach the parents with educational materials - for example, showing visuals with measuring out HOW MUCH SUGAR is in a can of pop (measure out the sugar and physically show them) - as well as giving them healthy alternatives.
I want this to be the best possible program to reach out to the people who need it most.
So - what do you think would work in a program like this? If you were a parent with a child in this scenario, what would YOU want to see?
Thanks!
Basically, we're looking to work with kids and possibly the parents when it comes to almost a "FIT camp" - a combination of exercises, fun activities, nutritional guidance and possible motivational speakers and tips to help these families eat and live healthier lives.
I'm thinking of what we've done in the past - and things that may have worked for you, that you think would benefit a program like this. We're talking about working with the families from within - both with the kids to show them that sports can be fun (some of these kids would feel uncomfortable playing with their 'healthy' peers), and we also want to approach the parents with educational materials - for example, showing visuals with measuring out HOW MUCH SUGAR is in a can of pop (measure out the sugar and physically show them) - as well as giving them healthy alternatives.
I want this to be the best possible program to reach out to the people who need it most.
So - what do you think would work in a program like this? If you were a parent with a child in this scenario, what would YOU want to see?
Thanks!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
An Honor and Privilege
I already talked about my weigh in today, but I want to tell you guys a story that I think each and every single one of you will appreciate.
I'm looking for a second job to help supplement my income when I'm doing my student teaching, and through craigslist.com I found a woman is is pretty deeply involved in youth sports programs. We had this meeting tonight - her, I and about 5 other folks, about different programs to run in the area. Soccer camps, football leagues - those types of things. Things that you would find in a Parks & Recs program book.
We partnered up, and I ended up talking to a guy named Kenny. He's doing his student teaching like I am, and he's a basketball coach at one of the local high schools. Long story made short, we had to come up with a program to run - something that will benefit kids.
He mentioned doing a "fit camp".
He had no idea on my background, or my weight history. This, I believe, is a calling that was given to me - an opportunity that I was blessed with. We discussed this for 3 hours - from 8:30 tonight until about 11:30 - it's 11:45pm as I write this.
The two of us are going to run a fit camp - a "Biggest Loser" meets "Shaq's Big Challenge" type of camp. It's going to be classes of approximately 20 people - geared towards families - to help them get fit, lose weight, and live a healthy lifestyle. The details aren't worked out yet - we're meeting again tomorrow night, but the goal is there. Motivational speakers (Michigan FAT members, are you listening?) - working with nutritional lessons, showing them how to eat right, make better decisions when it comes to preparing food and eating out - promoting exercise - you name it - that's the process we're going through to work out the details.
There's so much more to figure out - but we're going to have this up and running in the next few weeks. My head is spnning right now with the endless possibilities - I want this to be about helping people discover a healthy life - and this is the opportunity to pay it forward that I was given.
I'm blessed for even having this opportunity, and I'm going to make the best of it. I'm not sure the details yet - but I know this - we're GOING to be doing this. We're going to be able to show these families - these adults, kids, brothers and sisters, best friends - whoever want to do this - how to do what all FAT members know works: how to be accountable for your decisions, what those right decisions consist of - and how it will affect them in the long run. Everything from these nutritional plans to helping them with exercise to giving them the support system that they need to make a difference.
You can tell by this blog that my mind is ALL over the place.
I'm going to be able to make a difference where it counts - in my own community. We're talking tentatively classes of about 20, and probably 4-6 classes.
I can't tell you how happy I am to be given this chance. I am going to bring EVERYTHING I'VE GOT to the table. This is what it's all about.
I'm looking for a second job to help supplement my income when I'm doing my student teaching, and through craigslist.com I found a woman is is pretty deeply involved in youth sports programs. We had this meeting tonight - her, I and about 5 other folks, about different programs to run in the area. Soccer camps, football leagues - those types of things. Things that you would find in a Parks & Recs program book.
We partnered up, and I ended up talking to a guy named Kenny. He's doing his student teaching like I am, and he's a basketball coach at one of the local high schools. Long story made short, we had to come up with a program to run - something that will benefit kids.
He mentioned doing a "fit camp".
He had no idea on my background, or my weight history. This, I believe, is a calling that was given to me - an opportunity that I was blessed with. We discussed this for 3 hours - from 8:30 tonight until about 11:30 - it's 11:45pm as I write this.
The two of us are going to run a fit camp - a "Biggest Loser" meets "Shaq's Big Challenge" type of camp. It's going to be classes of approximately 20 people - geared towards families - to help them get fit, lose weight, and live a healthy lifestyle. The details aren't worked out yet - we're meeting again tomorrow night, but the goal is there. Motivational speakers (Michigan FAT members, are you listening?) - working with nutritional lessons, showing them how to eat right, make better decisions when it comes to preparing food and eating out - promoting exercise - you name it - that's the process we're going through to work out the details.
There's so much more to figure out - but we're going to have this up and running in the next few weeks. My head is spnning right now with the endless possibilities - I want this to be about helping people discover a healthy life - and this is the opportunity to pay it forward that I was given.
I'm blessed for even having this opportunity, and I'm going to make the best of it. I'm not sure the details yet - but I know this - we're GOING to be doing this. We're going to be able to show these families - these adults, kids, brothers and sisters, best friends - whoever want to do this - how to do what all FAT members know works: how to be accountable for your decisions, what those right decisions consist of - and how it will affect them in the long run. Everything from these nutritional plans to helping them with exercise to giving them the support system that they need to make a difference.
You can tell by this blog that my mind is ALL over the place.
I'm going to be able to make a difference where it counts - in my own community. We're talking tentatively classes of about 20, and probably 4-6 classes.
I can't tell you how happy I am to be given this chance. I am going to bring EVERYTHING I'VE GOT to the table. This is what it's all about.
Chase It
Goal: Lose 10 Pounds in April
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 267.6
4.4 down, 5.6 to go!
Basketball went great last night - I'm COMPLETELY wiped out. When the alarm went off this morning my body did NOT want to get up. Totally sore from the pores of my feet to the bald spot on the top of my head.
So I went downstairs and weighed in. I got a 268.6.
As is my routine every day, I go to the gym in the morning and then come home and weigh in again. My post-workout weigh-in is the one I count for my official daily weigh in. Some would say that's cheating, but the way I see it - the pre-workout weigh in motivates the hell out of me. I know that whatever I see before my workout is going to be almost a full pound LESS when I get home and weigh in again.
Honestly, that fact in itself is what motivates me to go to the gym 7 days a week.
When I woke up this morning, I just knew I wasn't going to hit the gym. I was sore, tired, I had a HUGE headache.. I just wasn't going to do it. But when I saw that 268.8.. I knew the potential for seeing the 268 was real. My body immediately changed its mind, and WANTED to go to the gym so I could see it on the scale.
That's what motivates me.
267.6
My old "new low" from months ago was 266.6. I haven't seen that number in months - and I haven't seen anything LOWER than that in the past 10 years.
Find what motivates you. Chase it.
Earn it.
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 267.6
4.4 down, 5.6 to go!
Basketball went great last night - I'm COMPLETELY wiped out. When the alarm went off this morning my body did NOT want to get up. Totally sore from the pores of my feet to the bald spot on the top of my head.
So I went downstairs and weighed in. I got a 268.6.
As is my routine every day, I go to the gym in the morning and then come home and weigh in again. My post-workout weigh-in is the one I count for my official daily weigh in. Some would say that's cheating, but the way I see it - the pre-workout weigh in motivates the hell out of me. I know that whatever I see before my workout is going to be almost a full pound LESS when I get home and weigh in again.
Honestly, that fact in itself is what motivates me to go to the gym 7 days a week.
When I woke up this morning, I just knew I wasn't going to hit the gym. I was sore, tired, I had a HUGE headache.. I just wasn't going to do it. But when I saw that 268.8.. I knew the potential for seeing the 268 was real. My body immediately changed its mind, and WANTED to go to the gym so I could see it on the scale.
That's what motivates me.
267.6
My old "new low" from months ago was 266.6. I haven't seen that number in months - and I haven't seen anything LOWER than that in the past 10 years.
Find what motivates you. Chase it.
Earn it.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Hoop Dreams
Goal: Lose 10 Pounds in April
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 269.8
2.4 down, 7.6 to go!
I seem to be locked into the 269 point. It's a bit stressful every time I step on the scale in the morning, as strange as that might sound.
I hit the gym this morning but have basketball tonight - Kevin's been dealing with illness so hopefully he'll be ok to play, but either way I'll have 2 hours hauling ass up and down the court tonight. Really looking forward to it.
I don't know why but I've had this major case of writer's block when it comes to this blog lately. I don't really have much to say - but I feel like I need to post more.
It's tax day - April 15th. That means a few things - one, sucks for you if you don't have your taxes done yet. Two, we're 50% through the month, and I'm falling short of my 10 pounds in April goal. Time to step it up a notch.
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 269.8
2.4 down, 7.6 to go!
I seem to be locked into the 269 point. It's a bit stressful every time I step on the scale in the morning, as strange as that might sound.
I hit the gym this morning but have basketball tonight - Kevin's been dealing with illness so hopefully he'll be ok to play, but either way I'll have 2 hours hauling ass up and down the court tonight. Really looking forward to it.
I don't know why but I've had this major case of writer's block when it comes to this blog lately. I don't really have much to say - but I feel like I need to post more.
It's tax day - April 15th. That means a few things - one, sucks for you if you don't have your taxes done yet. Two, we're 50% through the month, and I'm falling short of my 10 pounds in April goal. Time to step it up a notch.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Keeping Up
Goal: Lose 10 Pounds in April
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 269.6
2.6 down, 7.4 to go!
I've sat in front of my computer every night this week with writer's block. Not sure what to write. I've done my thing - but this last week has been so unorganized. Tuesday - field trip. Wednesday - jazz contest (straight 1st division ratings, btw!). Thursday and Friday were 10 hour work days to make up for Tuesday and Wednesday being off of work. Running all weekend, you name it.
It's Sunday night and I still haven't completed everything I wanted to get done - and honestly, probably shouldn't be doing this now, but I need to get something.
This week was essentially a wash - about the same weigh ins - but I'll take that, considering this week has been a blur. This week I really have to gear up - I want to drop a solid 2 pounds this week, really make an impact.
Been trying to get Gary back into the gym - hopefully I'll be able to report that he's signed up with me sometime this week. Also, been in 'training' for softball season, gearing my workouts towards speed bursts and power, been doing a TON of core exercises.. my ribs/abs haven't ever felt so sore. That's a good thing.
One other quick note - Detroiters, the "Race for the Cure" is May 31st at 8am starting at Comerica Park. There's a 1 mile run, a 5k walk and a 5k run. I just signed up for the 5k run. It's cheaper the earlier you sign up, so if you're interested, do it soon. You can find the link here.
Keep on trucking, Warriors. I can't believe I'm saying this but April is almost halfway over!
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 269.6
2.6 down, 7.4 to go!
I've sat in front of my computer every night this week with writer's block. Not sure what to write. I've done my thing - but this last week has been so unorganized. Tuesday - field trip. Wednesday - jazz contest (straight 1st division ratings, btw!). Thursday and Friday were 10 hour work days to make up for Tuesday and Wednesday being off of work. Running all weekend, you name it.
It's Sunday night and I still haven't completed everything I wanted to get done - and honestly, probably shouldn't be doing this now, but I need to get something.
This week was essentially a wash - about the same weigh ins - but I'll take that, considering this week has been a blur. This week I really have to gear up - I want to drop a solid 2 pounds this week, really make an impact.
Been trying to get Gary back into the gym - hopefully I'll be able to report that he's signed up with me sometime this week. Also, been in 'training' for softball season, gearing my workouts towards speed bursts and power, been doing a TON of core exercises.. my ribs/abs haven't ever felt so sore. That's a good thing.
One other quick note - Detroiters, the "Race for the Cure" is May 31st at 8am starting at Comerica Park. There's a 1 mile run, a 5k walk and a 5k run. I just signed up for the 5k run. It's cheaper the earlier you sign up, so if you're interested, do it soon. You can find the link here.
Keep on trucking, Warriors. I can't believe I'm saying this but April is almost halfway over!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Bedtime
Goal: Lose 10 Pounds in April
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 268.6
3.6 down, 6.4 to go!
Note the timestamp - it's 12:09am. I wasn't going to blog tonight but I had to report my 268.6 this morning. I left for my run around 7am, did about 2+ miles - headed home, showered, and was headed towards school around 8am.
I just walked in the door, 16 hours later. I work in less than 8 hours. So needless to say this is a short blog.
I'm about 1/3rd of my way to 10 pounds lost in April. We're exactly 1/3rd of the way through April.
Attainable.
PS: I want to say that playing hoops for two hours with Kevin and the guys was awesome - what a great workout. We'll be doing it again next Tuesday, so if anyone's around Detroit, c'mon along. Hit me up.
Ok, seriously. Goodnight, I'm BEYOND exhausted.
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 268.6
3.6 down, 6.4 to go!
Note the timestamp - it's 12:09am. I wasn't going to blog tonight but I had to report my 268.6 this morning. I left for my run around 7am, did about 2+ miles - headed home, showered, and was headed towards school around 8am.
I just walked in the door, 16 hours later. I work in less than 8 hours. So needless to say this is a short blog.
I'm about 1/3rd of my way to 10 pounds lost in April. We're exactly 1/3rd of the way through April.
Attainable.
PS: I want to say that playing hoops for two hours with Kevin and the guys was awesome - what a great workout. We'll be doing it again next Tuesday, so if anyone's around Detroit, c'mon along. Hit me up.
Ok, seriously. Goodnight, I'm BEYOND exhausted.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Weekend Diligence
Goal: Lose 10 Pounds in April
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 269.0
3 down, 7.0 to go!
Going to keep this one quick - I know most of us don't check the blogs as much on the weekends.
Weight's slowly going down, eating is solid. Not much else to report.
Kevin and I and others are playing basketball Tuesday, I'm really looking forward to that. We're hosting a BBQ at our place tomorrow, which means I have control over the food choices - which means there'll be good choices for me.
I'm sailing now - I'm 30% to my goal for April and it's April 5th. In the past I've let my foot off the gas - that's not going to happen this month.
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 269.0
3 down, 7.0 to go!
Going to keep this one quick - I know most of us don't check the blogs as much on the weekends.
Weight's slowly going down, eating is solid. Not much else to report.
Kevin and I and others are playing basketball Tuesday, I'm really looking forward to that. We're hosting a BBQ at our place tomorrow, which means I have control over the food choices - which means there'll be good choices for me.
I'm sailing now - I'm 30% to my goal for April and it's April 5th. In the past I've let my foot off the gas - that's not going to happen this month.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Results Come From Your Choices
Goal: Lose 10 Pounds in April
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 269.2
2.8 down, 7.2 to go!
It was good to see the 269 streak continue, and I plan on keeping this up. This is how I ate today:
Breakfast: Honey Nut Cheerios
Lunch: 2 Lean Pockets (I know, but I don't have chili ready), jello cup, 100 cal snack
Snack: Dry tuna out of the packet
Dinner: Cobb Salad (out to eat)
Pretty straight forward. We went to the Pistons game and to a bar afterwards, and here's where the IMPORTANT decisions came in. For dinner, I chose water for my drink. At the Pistons game, I walked past the concession stands without blinking an eye. After the game Erin and I went to a bar for a few drinks - my beverage of choice? Diet Coke.
I think sometimes we try so hard to make the RIGHT decisions all day long that by the end of the day, we're tired of making the right decisions. I read every day about a FAT Coalition member (many times this is me) who talks about how they ate great all day and worked out and did everything they could, but they were so hungry at a certain point (usually dinner) of the day where they just binged and regreted it.
It's about ALL of our choices.
It does no good for me to hold my opponent on the basketball court to just two points on 5 shots for the first three quarters if I'm going to give up 22 in the fourth and foul out.
Almost isn't enough. I think "almost" is what a lot of us settle for sometimes. And results come from the choices we make.
Which is why a lot of us are "almost" losing weight.
Is your health WORTH going 100%? Let's all have a great April. I don't know about you guys, but I'm dropping 10 pounds this month, MINIMUM.
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 269.2
2.8 down, 7.2 to go!
It was good to see the 269 streak continue, and I plan on keeping this up. This is how I ate today:
Breakfast: Honey Nut Cheerios
Lunch: 2 Lean Pockets (I know, but I don't have chili ready), jello cup, 100 cal snack
Snack: Dry tuna out of the packet
Dinner: Cobb Salad (out to eat)
Pretty straight forward. We went to the Pistons game and to a bar afterwards, and here's where the IMPORTANT decisions came in. For dinner, I chose water for my drink. At the Pistons game, I walked past the concession stands without blinking an eye. After the game Erin and I went to a bar for a few drinks - my beverage of choice? Diet Coke.
I think sometimes we try so hard to make the RIGHT decisions all day long that by the end of the day, we're tired of making the right decisions. I read every day about a FAT Coalition member (many times this is me) who talks about how they ate great all day and worked out and did everything they could, but they were so hungry at a certain point (usually dinner) of the day where they just binged and regreted it.
It's about ALL of our choices.
It does no good for me to hold my opponent on the basketball court to just two points on 5 shots for the first three quarters if I'm going to give up 22 in the fourth and foul out.
Almost isn't enough. I think "almost" is what a lot of us settle for sometimes. And results come from the choices we make.
Which is why a lot of us are "almost" losing weight.
Is your health WORTH going 100%? Let's all have a great April. I don't know about you guys, but I'm dropping 10 pounds this month, MINIMUM.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Awesome
Goal: Lose 10 Pounds in April
April 1 - 272.0
Today's Weigh In: 269.8
2.2 down, 7.8 to go!
A few things to note today. First off, of course, is today's weigh-in. I snuck JUST underneath 270 today, a milestone. I've done this a few times before, and I've popped right back up. In fact, my "new low" was 266 - and that was probably 4 months ago - so I'm not getting too excited about anything yet.
There's a few things working in my favor right now - first off, I'm convinced that this Metabolife thing is working.. in conjunction with working out and eating right. It's not a magic pill, and without the hard work being put in, I don't think I'd see the results that I am. But, perhaps it was the catalyst.
Secondly, I got a new toy for my birthday. An Ipod Nano with the Nike+ chip. If you don't know how this thing works - it's a little chip that connects to any Ipod Nano and it records your runs. It's kind of like GPS - I set it when I go for a run, and it tracks how far you've gone, your time, your calories and your history - so you can try to beat your 'pace' next time. It's a cool toy. Also, you can connect it to ITunes and upload your information and it'll give you cool graphs like the one above (click on it or the link to make it bigger) to illustrate how you're doing and let you upload your runs to 'challenge' others. It's a pretty incredible technology.
And besides, it's a new 'toy' so it makes me want to go out and run just so I can use it.
And now that the weather is getting better, I'm wanting to get out more. Kevin's wanting to play some hoops this weekend so I hope I'm able to do this, but softball season is right around the corner, and we're playing basketball on Tuesday nights from 7-9 (anyone local to Detroit is invited, hit me up), so I'm looking forward to the springtime.
Not much else - just staying strong. Hope you're all with me. Amazing April everyone. April 30th's my 3rd wedding anniversary, so I'm hoping to celebrate it under 262. Only one way to accomplish that - hard work and determination with NO slip ups.
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