new blog is live!!!!!

WEBSITE IS LIVEEEEE!!! So i'll be blogging there from now on :) So Check it out!!!!!!

And leave some love :)

http://www.lessbrittmorelife.com

LAUNCHING THE NEW WEBSITE THIS WEEK!!!!!

LAUNCH COMING AT THE NEW BLOG THIS WEEK!!!!


SO GO there and check it out:

www.lessbrittmorelife.com

Week 3

Much better week this week! yayy! I lost what i had gained last week (2.2 pounds), and then i also lost 0.2 pound! Yes, even the tenths of a pound count! For a total of 2.4 pounds loss. Another huge thing, is that i lost weight during Thanksgiving week!!! I also got exercise on Thanksgiving day... that's never happened! And this is definitely something i want to do every holiday and incorporate more exercise into my daily life!

So the new Weight Watchers Points plus program rolled out, and i really like it so far! I think this is one of those times, when change can be a good thing! But, man some of the people in my group just weren't getting it. I didn't understand that, i thought the program is very easy to understand. I'm thankful to have you, my readers, who support me, the #fitblog community, and health / fitness community to support me along my weight loss and fitness/health achieving journey!

One of the things i'm excited about it that all FRUITS ARE ZERO POINTS!!!! I love me some fruits :) As a matter of fact, i'm eating some green grapes right now! yesssss.

I'll do another post later this week with more detail about my thoughts on the new program. I definitely believe that Weight Watchers is the program for me!

Thanksgiving / 3 recipes!

Hello blogsphere,

Here are some awesome recipes from my grandma. I have to figure out the weight watchers points values at some point. But i thought i'd share them anyway. IF anyone wants to help me and figure out the point values-- feel free yay :)

Also, the Thanksgiving day/weekend went pretty well. I exercised 3 days, and even did my own version of a turkey trot. I walked for 3 miles over 1 hour. It was great. It was the first time i got exercise, and it was great. I was able to eat guilt-free, and i didn't go overboard, like i have in the past. It was wonderful. I love making good decisions, and feeling better about myself. I wish i could get over this cold soon, and get that pain in my lower right leg to stop hurting! yay! oh also 38.5 days until graduation!!! oh. my. word.

Recipe #1:

Pronto Taco Soup

1 pound lean ground beef

1 medium onion chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 cans (14 - 1/2 ounces each) of beef broth

1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

1-1/2 cups picante sauce

1 cup uncooked spiral or small shell pasta

1 medium green bell pepper, chopped

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes

Shredded cheddar cheese and tortilla chips

In a large saucepan, cook beef onion, & garlic until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add the broth, tomatoes, picante sauce, pasta, green pepper, chili powder and parsley. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until pasta is tender. Garnish with cheese and tortilla chips. Yield: 8 servings (2 quarts)

recipe #2: Gina's Salsa

2 cans whole tomatoes in blender

Add one chopped onion

(4) Jalapenos -- remove the seeds to make not so spicy

Cilantro to taste

Minced garlic

Pulse blender 2 or 3 times.

ADD: 3 tablespoons vinegar

3 tablespoons oil

1 tablespoon salt

1 whole juice of lime

Recipe #3: Ham & Cheese Quiche

2 red potatoes, cubed

1 tablespoon dried rosemary

1 cup cubed ham

1 (8 or 9-inch) premade pie shell in foil pain

1 cup shredded Colby & Monterey jack cheese blend (recommended: Kraft)

3 eggs

1 cup milk

1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning (Recommended: McCormick)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Place potatoes and rosemary in a microwaveable dish. Cover with a damp paper towel & microwave for 2 minutes, until almost cooked through. *(Or boil potatoes on stove until almost cooked through).

Cover the bottom of the premade pie shell with potatoes, ham, and cheese. Place on a cookie sheet and set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and seasoning and pour into the pie shell.

Place quiche into preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until eggs have set.

6 servings

Bon Appetit!

Shrinking Jeans week 1

So, you know, if you read yesterday's post... that i didn't have the best of weeks. But that's okay, nothing to be ashamed about. We can't all have amazing weeks, can we?! The pity party is definitely over. Back on track, and eating foods that are good for me-- eating in moderation, and not depriving myself of those foods that i love.

So according to the Weight Watchers scale yesterday, i gained 2.2 pounds yikes! But that's okay... I did get my 150 minutes (or 2.5 hours of walking in) which is good. I just need to eat good foods for me, within my allowed points, and exercise... That is my plan for weight loss.

Thank you, again, to everyone who supported me yesterday and today for giving me words of encouragement and not giving up on me! I need the support now, more than ever... So thank you!

And what's real, is that the half-marathon i'm walking is in 3 months... oh my word. I've seriously got to get my ass in check. I'm starting to get nervous about it! oh yes.

Week 2

So let's be honest, this week was not the best, i was exhausted from school and clinicals. I had no energy to cook... i ate fast food, when i knew i should not have. I did not count and track points, when i should have. I did not grocery shop and i did not plan and search recipes, when i should have.

So i did a lot of things that i shouldn't have, you know ... one of those weeks when you have no energy for anything, and could really care less. Yes it was one of those weeks.

But enough with the pitty party self... time to get back on track. Walking 4 days a week for 300 minutes, for tracking like i know i need to and like i should ....

I'm sorry to my ho-ho-hoe's, for letting our team down and for letting myself down. I know i can do this and i know that i want to do this, i have to work hard... and some days i just don't want to do it!

This overweight, lazy, tired girl is not who i want to be, and not who i believe i am supposed to be.

Like Tara said, "do not let the gain deter you! In fact let it fuel the fire. #yougotthis"

#fitblog family, your twitter words of encouragement, were 110% needed today and greatly appreciated! Thank you again for your support!

week 1

So if you didn't know i decided to go back to Weight Watchers, and it's been a great idea and much needed change! I'm able to eat fruits and pastas now, with moderation of course!

At the meeting this week, we talked about how to handle different stressors that come along during the holidays. We learned about how to handle situations, and how to speak with people who may think they're being kind and loving-- but they may say spiteful things when we're eating. It was good to learn. I KNOW that exercise is the #1 way to help control stress in my life! I just have to do it ... obvious, Brittany!

My 1st weigh-on Tuesday went great! I lost 3.4 pounds the first week!!! YAY!!! GO ME!

This 1st week went well for me-- i was quite surprised!!! I had gone out of town for the weekend to Pittsburgh, PA to celebrate the wedding of my sister and brother-in-law with my stepmom's family, since most of the family was not able to come to the wedding! It was sooo much fun! And i did sooo good/well (whatev.) with my eating! I was so proud of myself and quite surprised. I believe it was because i truely want to change my ways! Or maybe because what we ate at the Celebration was Pittsburgh-foods which i wasn't real sure about. But seriously, i did well because i wanted to, and i know that i need to change my habits/thoughts if i really want to change my lifestyle choices!

I'm participating in a challenge over at Shrinking Jeans , with some pretty amazing ladies! In the challenge, we are on a team of 8 or less, and the team that losses the most wins a prize! And there are other prizes to win along the way as well. You know i love a good prize and winning free things :) Check them out! Mel, Karena, Jen, Christy, Colleen, Mandy, Melissa, and myself! So far, I am convinced that being on a team for a challenge, is the best idea ever! We are here for each other, motivating each other along the way! I always did enjoy playing team sports (well most of the time-- i really enjoyed swimming, until i quit!).

A little bit of info before i state my goals: So last week at my 1st WW's meeting, our leader had us address a postcard to ourselves that we will get at someone point of the holidays. We had to write on the card 1 goal that we would like to achieve by the 1st meeting of the new year. I chose to reach my 5% weight loss by 1st meeting. For me, that would be 13 pounds! I've already lost 3.4 pounds, so i need to lose 9.6 pounds!

Goals:

-Weight goal: To lose 9.6 pounds, and reach my 5% lost goal too!

-Exercise: 300 minutes (I'm in walking training for my half-marathon i'm doing in February!!!) I'll be walking 4 days a week, Normally 3 miles on Mon, 3 miles on Wed, 3 miles on Thurs, and the long walks on Saturday ranging from 7 - 10 miles on Saturdays as it gets closer!!!) PLEASE DO NOT LET ME SLACK ON THIS!!!!!

-Accomplishing my weight loss with Weight Watchers-- enjoying cooking, eating healthy, and making better decisions for myself!

phewww. enough!

Thanksgiving Day foods + points

Oops... i forgot what i was really excited about. Here's the list of foods they provided us, with their points value! yay! To make planning food choices on Thanksgiving and Christmas THAT much easier :)

Turkey, baked without skin 3 oz = 3 pts
Turkey Friend 3.5 oz = 5 pts
Pork Roast 3 oz = 6 pts
Beef Roast 3 oz = 5 pts
Ham, baked glazed 4 oz = 6 pts
Rice Dressing 1 cup = 9 pts
Cornbread dressing 1 cup = 8 points
Gravy, brown or gibley 1 cup = 4 pts
Potato Salad 1/2 cup = 7 pts
Green Bean Casserole 1 cup = 5 pts
Candied Yams 1/2 cup = 4 pts
Baked Sweet Potato 7 oz = 3 pts
Mac & Cheese 1 cup = 9 pts
Mashed Potatoes 1/2 cup = 2 pts
Green beans-steamed 1 cup = 0 pts
Cole Slaw 1/2 cup = 4 pts
Cranberry Sauce 1/4 cup = 2 pts
Dinner Roll 2 oz = 3 pts
Fruit Salad 1 cup = 1 pt
Pumpkin Pie 1/8 pie = 9 pts
Apple pie 1/8 pie = 9 pts
Pecan Pie 1/2 pie = 12 pts
Fudge 1 in X 2 in 1 oz = 3 pts
Praline 2-1/2 inch diameter = 5 pts
Fruit Cake 2 oz = 4 pts
Fruit Salad 1 cup = o pts


ENJOY!

back to weight watchers.....

So back to weight watchers. I had been on the "ideal protein" diet for 6.5 months, and i'd lost about 33 pounds. But i decided that i needed the support, encouragement, resources, and to be able to eat normal, real foods without having a gain on the scale.

So back to weight watchers i went today. I knew that i probably had a gain, but i didn't think i had gained that much. Like almost 6 pounds of gain-ness in 12 days. That's ridiculous... hopefully my TOM is aboutt o start, or otherwise that's ridiculous. But like i tweeted earlier... that almost gallon of icecream & bag of airheads didn't do much help. Time to get serious.

The meeting was great, My leader i really think i'm gonna like her. Well until i move to Austin in February, and have to find another meeting and leader and get used to the new group there!

She had a table set up like thanksgiving, and we went to the table and took the pictures she made of correct portion sizes, and so we could see what our Thanksgiving would look like. We then guesstimated the points values, and then after everyone was done "picking out their dinner". She revealed the total points. I was pretty close, i was 8 points off. So we talked about ways to handle Thanksgiving. Since normally i won't get my grandmother's cooking who lives in Texas (where i'll be going for Thanksgiving) I'll eat more of her cooked foods, and less of foods that i can eat every other time of the year.

My thanksgiving dinner:

( ) = my points guess, { } = weight watchers given points

Fruit Salad, 1 Cup (0) {1}
Pumpkin pie, 1 slice (5) {9}
Pecan pie, 1/8slice --> fold a paper place into 1/8 and that's the slice of pecan pie & pumpkin pie (5) {12!!!!!}
Fudge, 1 in X 2 in. (7) {3}
Mashed potatoes, 1 Cup (6) {4}
Rice dressing, 1 Cup (6) {9}
Green bean casserole, 1 Cup (5) {5}
Turkey, 3 oz. (5) {5}
Roast, 3 oz. (4) {6}
Dinner roll, 1 (2 oz.) (4) {3}
Candied yams, 1/2 cup (6) {4}

My guessed points - 53 points
Weight watchers points - 61 points!!!

My total daily points 35 + 35 extra points for the week = 70 .. so i would be able to eat a few things for Breakfast! I'd hae to cut out some of those sweets and probably the candied yams. But i'm definitely keeping my grandma's mashed potatoes on there! No one makes them like hers.

Then she talked about how to prepare for the holidays.
Also, we filled out a postcard to mail to ourselves, for a goal to reach/something to achieve my 1st meeting of the new year.

My achievement shall be: Reach 5% weight loss (which would be 13 pounds lost). I totally think this goal is achieveable. That's like 2 pound loss over the 6 weeks (until the new year!!!)

Here's the recipe from the meeting for the week:

Crustless Pumpkin Pie
15 oz. canned pumpkin
12 oz. fat-free evaporated milk
1-1/2 cup egg beaters egg whites
3/4 cup sugar substitute (Splenda)
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla

--> Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients in a bowl & mix thoroughly. Place mixture in a 8X8 baking dish. Sprayed lightly with nonstick spray & bake for 45 minutes. It will remain a little soft like pie filling. Servce hot or cold. Store leftovers in fridge.

8 servings @ 2 pt each.

15 oz canned pumpkin = 2 pts
12 oz fatfree evaporated milk = 5 pts
1/2 cup eggbeaters egg whites = 4 pts
3/4 cup splenda = 8 pts!!!
2 tsp pumpkin spice = 0
1/2 tsp salt = 0
1 tsp vanilla extract = 0

19 / 8 servings = 2 pts/serving


Phewwww. I'm tired from today. Yowza. So excited for #wwchat starting soon. Make sure you follow myself (@gettinfitbritt) and Colleen (@tryn2bfit) for latest details on when we'll be launching the 1st chat!!! We're so excited!

peace, yo.

weight watchers chat

I'm so excited to working with Colleen on this new adventure! Check out her post yesterday, about why Weight Watchers works!

Do you follow the Weight Watchers plan?
Even if you are not currently subscribed, but you still follow it, or are interested in following it then we have the perfect place for you to come and chat all about it!

Brittany and Colleen will be hosting a weekly Weight Watchers chat on Twitter to have one place where you can come and chat and get to know everyone who is following the plan! Brittany has been on Weight Watchers for 1 week and has lost 2 pounds doing it! Colleen has been on Weight Watchers for 8 months and has lost 71 pounds doing it! They are two friends trying to spread the word about this great program and reaching out to help people stay on track :)

Twitter chats are an easy fun way to interact with people all at the same time at once! We will be using the hashtag #wwchat . We will also be starting a chat (you can use www.tweetchat.com and enter the hashtag wwchat on Thursday evening starting December 2nd. Our chat will be from 8-9 eastern time (7-8 central time). We will be talking about different weight watchers topics and issues. Please email either of us during the week if you have any issues or topics, that you want to talk about on Thursday nights.

All week long we encourage you to tweet using this hashtag so that people can get to know you and learn from your ideas. If you have a blog we would love you to mention this chat on your blog and when you post something helpful to Weight Watchers followers use the hashtag so we can read all about it!
Stay tuned for more information and please send any ideas, questions or comments you have to us!

Brittany lessbrittmorelife@gmail.com www.pursuitoftherealme.blogspot.com (website soon coming: www.lessbrittmorelife.com )
Colleen tryn2bfit@gmail.com www.thefitbee.com

Ideal Protein vs. Weight Watchers

So i've been on Ideal Protein for almost 6.5 months, i've lost 35 pounds and 23 inches. It's been really great, but for me to lose food i have to follow the plan EXACTLY. Having to do things EXACTLY PERFECT does not work out so well for me. At first i really like this plan, because i only had to cook/prepare one meal a day, per say. With preparing vegetables for 2 meals a day. I was still getting the protein i needed. And i couldn't have fruit :(

I've been on Weight Watchers several times. In 2006 was my most successful time, i lost 30 pounds and i felt great i was down to 208. Since then i've gained it all back and then 50 more pounds. But currently i've lost almost 35 pounds and i do feel great. I know that i have a ways t go. Statistically by BMI standards, i should weigh somewhere in between 130-155 for a "healthy" BMI. I know i have more to lose i don't know about losing 105 more pounds. I know i want to be below 200. I would think 150-175 would be okay. I just will have to see how i feel when i get near goal.

So the last few days i've given thought to going back to Weight Watchers. I really need the information from the meetings and accountability that i get from the meetings. I know there will be a lot more planning, recording of points/foods, and more time dedicated to shopping/meal planning. I'm also excited to see the new program that Weight Watchers is coming out with soon.

Thoughts / comments in regards to Weight Watchers? Do you participate in Weight Watchers? Do you like it? Any favorite Weight Watchers recipes that you want to share??

time to get to work

“It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.”
-Vince Lombardi

So i've been off of my weight loss game for the last month for the most part. I was definitely stressed out with my sister's upcoming wedding. My sister's wedding was 16 days ago. It's time to get back to work. I know that is what i want to do, and need to do. I need to find the own motivation from myself, and then let's go from there. I know that i want to better myself, and help to better those that i love, and those around me. It's time to commit and really do something different. I know that i have issues with committing. It took me several days to figure out a new blog domain name, and a long time to sit with it and figure out if i was going to make the change. I know that making the change will be a great thing for me.

Clean Eats: 12/50

Resistance Training: 3/15

Cardio Training: 4/18

Weight Loss: 0/10

1: Blog Every Other Day (15 blogs) (3/15)

2: Drink more water! ( doing great with that!)

3: Have positive self-talk, and not talk myself down when i don't do my best or don't have a weight loss

(This is something that needs daily work, but it's in progress!)

XOXO.

changes coming soon!

Hey readers,

There are some changes in the making. I decided it's time to break out on my own. Blogging-ly speaking. I've been wrestling with the idea for quite some time of going big. I've got big dreams and ideas of doing something with my blog and my weight loss journey. I've had this idea for the past 5 or 6 years since the last time i lost a good big of weight. (In 2006, i lost 30 pounds!)

I want to document my journey. Use it as a source of inspiration for myself, and hopefully i can motivate others to change their ideas, thoughts, health choices, and food patterns. I have long dreamed about working with overweight people and get them to turn their lives around. Having once been in their own shoes, i feel i could help them a great deal.

So soon i'll be closing down this blog and moving over to my new website:

www.lessbrittmorelife.com

So please check out the "under construction site" and sign up to be notified of the website launch date!

-------------------------------------

In other words, life is going well. 67 days until graduation! I am so excited! I can't wait to be done with school, and start this next adventure of my life. I am so excited to start the next chapter in my life that includes AUSTIN, TEXAS!!!!!! So excited to see what life holds for me next. I am dedicated and motivated to be the best Brittany i can be in the next 3-4 months by the time i move to Austin. It's time to shed myself of this weight and the negative thoughts and habits for once and for all. Time to let go of the pain of my parents divorce once and for all. Time to let go of all the negative talk, the self-doubt, the hatred i have towards myself and the decisions i've made. I'm tired of being this person. I'm done. So now begins the self-love, the accepting myself for my faults and mess-ups. I will do this, and i can do this.. I will change my life for the better. I want to love and be loved. I want to fall in love.

whew. good night, all.

XOXO,

Britt

coming soon EXPOSED brittany edition....

So lots of bloggers have been sharing their exposed posts. While i am still unsure about doing a picture exposed, I will however do a exposed post brittany edition.

Stay tuned for that greatness soon!

#Fitblog i can't say enough how great you are!
Thank you Katy and Rita for your amazingness! Keep working hard, and doing great things for the healthy and fit blogging community!

self domain??

I've been given some thought lately to making my own domain and getting my own site away from blogspot. Any ideas blog peeps?? Recommendations for sites to use? Did you have any problems starting your own site? Did you use any IT people to help you transfer your posts from your old site??

Help. Ideas. Thoughts. Stories. Recommendations greatly appreciated, ya'll!

#33DC

So day 3 of #33DC has arrived and it's going well so far. There are only a few of us doing it. If you're interested in joining, you can start at any time! Check out Sam's blog for more info!

Goals:

Clean Eats: 2/50

Resistance Training: 0/15

Cardio Training: 1/18

Weight Loss: 0/10

1: Blog Every Other Day (15 blogs) (1/15)

2: Drink more water! ( doing great with that!)

3: Have positive self-talk, and not talk myself down when i don't do my best or don't have a weight loss

(This is something that needs daily work, but it's in progress!)

love, 33 day challenge

So instead of eating i decided to watch Letters to Juliet. Oh man i'm such a sap, and a lover of love stories. It's so true, and such a beautiful thing :)

So Sam @ Never Say Never came up with a great challenge! I'm really excited about it. Check out her blog if you're interested in joining the challenge! I find that challenges thare are shorter in length are much easier to complete, and goals in shorter time frames are much easier to keep.

I made some amazing friends this week through #fitblog and the twitter world. Sam and Emily are so totally awesome and amazing women. Emily will be getting married next year, and i hope i get to be there!

Like Em said, i love the fitblogger world, i've "met" some amazing guys and gals. I can't wait to actually meet them in real life someday.

__________________________________________________________

Whenever i need my butt kicked, I'm always up for a good challenge.

Sam posted her 33 Day Challenge. The first day is TODAY! Don't worry, if you'd like to join in, you're more than welcome! Come chat with us on Twitter as well under #33DC.

Goals:

Clean Eats: 50 clean eats (25 days of clean eats)

Resistance Training: 15 RT

Cardio Training: 18 CT

Weight Loss: 10 pounds

1: Blog Every Other Day (15 blogs)

2: Drink more water!

3: Have positive self-talk, and not talk myself down when i don't do my best or don't have a weight loss

Please check out Sam's blog for more details, or contact me for more details if you have questions!

Keep it real.

3:

long awaited update :)

1st - Momo (my mom's mom), Jerry (my brother-in-law / my sister's new husband), and my mom

2nd - Mom playing the scrubboard ( a traditional cajun musical instrument)

3rd - Me, looking beautiful while not really helping at all to fix the bustle on my sister's wedding dress

4th - The totally in love newlyweds

5th - Chels (the bride), me, and my other sister Desi (Chels and Desi are twins!) I love this picture so much! This was after crying at the wedding and during the toasts the siblings and my parents made and then after cajun dancing for almost 4 hours.

Here we go. The wedding was absolutely beautiful, and i was a crying mess of course. My sister still did a few traditional things in her non-traditional way. That made my heart happy. yay. It was such a joy and honor to be there for my sister on her special day. It was great.

I was so glad to be a part of it, but i really am glad that it's over. No i can use my stressed out ness for other things haha. Like finishing school, graduating, studying for boards, packing, moving, working on my weight loss.

I ate pretty well i would say. My 288 pound self would be quite shocked. I had a few petit-fours at the bridal shower. Ate good at lunches and dinners. Didn't go to crazy on the pastas that were served. Ate a good portion of vegetables. There were SIXTEEN, yes 16 cakes, at the wedding and i did not have a single piece of cake. No even a piece of my grandfather's birthday cake!! (He turned 82!!!!!) I was way too busy talking to people, and dancing. I completely forget about the cake which i as a surprise to me!!

I feel better about my self than i did when i started my journey back in April, but i really have a good ways to go, before i totally feel happy with myself in pictures. I can't wait for the day with i feel good about how i look in a picture, and i won't have to take another picture just because i don't like the way i look! Oh how i can't wait for that day :)

Phewwww. Long post. Enough for now.

Laissez Le Bon Temps Rouler Mes Amis! (Let the good times roll, my friends!)

motivation please...

I am in need of some butt kicking i do believe.

I really don't have the energy or motivation right now, to continue with my exercising and eating right. Maybe it's because i don't have the money for the gym membership or to buy any food until the end of the month... I'm not sure what it is.

I think it's because i'm so tired, and still re-cooperating from my sister's wedding.

So i hope that it gets better in a few days.

I definitely failed last week and never posted for HOT 100 and the #OctGTD challenges. Whoopsies!

Let the ass kicking and motivation commence, please and thank you!

update soon....

So just a quick post... My sister's wedding was absolutely beautiful and it was so much fun to see all of my crazy and hilarious family on mom's and dad's side.

Longer update, with pictures, to come sometime this week!

Friend Making Monday!

So Kenz @ All The Weigh always has fun topics for Friend Making Monday. I really liked today's so i thought i'd share my answers, and post the questions on my blog, too!

1) Do you prefer talking or texting? I text like a crazy person, since most days i'm so exhausted. I normally do not have energy to talk at the end of the day, so texting is much better. However, for long conversations and actually visiting-- i much prefer to talk or visit in person.

2) Do you make your bed everyday? Definitely not... I run out of time getting ready in the morning. I normally try to make it on the weekends, though.

3) What sounds do you hear right now? Harry Potter movie on the tv...

4) List three things that you always carry with you: My iPhone, wallet, a pen or few.

5) What are your favorite TV shows? House, Gossip Girl, One Tree Hill, NCIS, NCIS-Los Angeles, Criminal Minds, Bones, Grey's Anatomy, Rizzoli & Isles, Discovery Health Channel.

6) Is there a hobby that you'd like to devote more time to? If so, what is it? Really learning how to play guitar, and be able to write my own songs-- and do something with that talent.

7) What is your favorite drink? FAVORITE probably... Root Beer or Shiner Bock, Abita Amber, or Blue Moon .... but lately i just drink water :)

8) Share a couple of cool facts about your family: I was named after a province in France called Bretagne (Brittany), My sisters are twins and they are a minute apart, my great-grandfather (maternal) came from Sicily on a boat by himself when he was 9 year old.

9) List one thing that you will do for yourself today: Eat a good and healthy dinner.

10) Share something that you're thankful for today: The people who love me, despite all of my faults.

Please share your answers, and pass it on to your blog too!

mostly wedding success!

So one of my classmates got married tonight, so me and 4 girls in our class went! It was a beautiful ceremony! And i didn't workout earlier today, because i thought we were gonna stay a while and dance! Boy was i disappointed or what... let's just say we didn't dance and i was disappointed!

That just means i'll have to dance my booty off at my sister's wedding next weekend :) OH EM GEE. It's next saturday!!! AHHHHH!!!!!

Food wise for the wedding i did good-ish ... 5 little meatballs, 3 little pieces of chicken, tomatoes, carrots, 1/2 of a little triangle sandwich, 1 sprite, 1 michelob ultra, and 1 piece of yummy delicious pecan filled cake! And i only had one serving... didn't go back for Seconds or Thirds or Fourths, etc. SMALL VICTORY FOR ME! Now let's see if i can do the same for my sister's wedding and upcoming events!!!

GEAUX TIGERS!
GEAUX SAINTS!

Best of Luck to Melissa, Rita, and Jennifer doing half-marathons tomorrow!

much love, yo.

HOT 100 Update #2 / Questionnaire

So this week has been not so great. I'm superrrrr stressed out with school and my sister's wedding next week. Let's just say i'm not the best dealer of stress in a good way. I'm slowly but surely figuring out and learning how to deal with the stress and stressors in my life appropriately and in a good way.

I really do like the HOT 100 challenge. It's been a great way to met new people / bloggers along with the wonderful #fitblog family.

Goals:

1) I definitely will be sleeping more- It helps with weight loss, energy, and mood :)--

Sleep is doing great this week, that's about it.

2) I WILL exercise 4-5 times a week, and doing some weights too.--

Well i only exercised 2 times this week, but there were good exercising times. I was just so worn out and didn't have the energy, desire, motivation or time to exercise until yesterday.

3) Continue to have good foods prepared and cooked, so i'm not tempted to stop for junk food and fast food after clinicals, school, working out, etc.--

This was actually good for the most part, having food cooked ahead of time helps. But i still get tempted to go out to lunch with my classmates. I've got to stop doing that seriously. It's not good for my wallet or my waistline.

4) Be way more committed to Ideal Protein, follow the plan exactly, to maximize my weight loss!--

I've done okay with sticking to Ideal Protein plan, not the best though, but one day at a time. Things will get better, and i WILL be committed.

-----------------------------------

So i love my #fitblog family, and all of these wonderful health/fitness/weight loss bloggers. This community is so wonderful and supportive. I love always having someone to listen to what i'm going through, and give me advice no matter what they're dealing with and going through. Such a beautiful thing!

Christina @ Never the Skinny Girl posted a questionnaire on her blog. It's a great way to get to know fellow bloggers and fellow readers and followers about what they're dealing with and what's going on with them.

I thought for fun I would post a questionnaire just to get to know some of you better.

1. What was your highest weight, what do you weigh right now and what is your goal weight?

2. What is your #1 motivation for losing weight?

3. Have you always been overweight?

4. When you want to give up what inspires you to keep going?

5. What is the #1 thing you look forward to when you hit your goal weight?

6. Do you have support on your weight loss journey?

7. What is your favorite exercise?

8. What is the most important thing you have learned on your weight loss journey?

9. What is one thing you have given up that you miss the most?

10. What is your strategy for losing weight?

I REALLY am looking forward to learning more about each person. Sometimes i get so excited about the support and community, i get so excited. Just know when we meet someday, i'll be giving each of you the biggest hug ever!

Much Love as always.

not so great

So weigh-in today was not pretty. I don't even want to update my progress or BMI because it will go up. 4.5 weight gain. DAMNNNNN IT. I really wish at times that i could go into inpatient rehab for emotional eating and mindless eating. So i could be detoxified from food, and then re-programmed my brain, and programmed with healthy and correct eating habits. But i know that, that will not happen or do much good. I would be more than likely, to go back to my old weighs rather quickly.

Have to deal with school, and my sister's wedding, and graduation, and the move is really quite stressful. I was doing so good. 32 pounds lost, and now i'm at 27.5 pounds lost. UGGGGH! I totally wanted to be at 40 pounds lost for my sister's wedding. I really think it's highly unlike that i'll lose 12.5 pounds for when i weigh-in next wednesday, so oh well.

I just have to get back up on that proverbial horse, and keep working hard, and keep trying hard. I really need to exercise like i tell myself i'm going to. Getting exercise, and getting that anxiety out really helps with my emotions, and all that anxiety i have that goes towards mindless and emotional eating.

I really love #fitblog, it's helped me so much. I've met some great people that are going through and dealing with and have gone thrown the same issues i'm having. It's such a beautiful thing. I wish sometimes they could be up in my face, telling me not to eat fast food when i want to stop after school or, telling me that i shouldn't order 6 sushi rolls, maybe 2 or 3. That i shouldn't eat 4 or 5 bread rolls at O'Charley's maybe just ask the people i'm with to move the bread basket to another side of the table. Sometimes i can totally do the turning down food at dinner and parties and function, but sometimes I SO CAN NOT. This past week it was SOOOOO CAN NOT!

Weigh gain occurred from: Eating pasta at dinner and 4 bread rolls, eating rolls of sushi, eating fastfood 3 times this week (which i never do! or try NOT to do!) Eating cheese and crackers which i'm not supposed to eat.

My Ideal Protein Protocol / Plan consists of:

Breakfast - 1 multi-vitamin, 1 potassium calcium vitamin, & select 1 Ideal Protein Food ( I normally have pudding, bar, or pre-made chocolate drink)

--> No mid-morning snack

Lunch - 2 cups of vegetables (there's a list of vegetables, some i'm not allowed to have as they are higher in carbs and calories than others), along with another IP food.

Dinner - 2 cups of vegetables ,and 5-7 oz of protein of my choosing (seafood, beef, chicken, poultry, eggs)

2 capsules of Magnesium-Calcium Vitamin

After dinner snack- another IP food with 2 more capsules of Magnesium-Calcium Vitamin

-----------

I've been on weight watchers several times, LA Weight Loss, and other diets. I found that when i follow the protocol exactly and get exercise-- I do great and feel great and i lose weight!!! But sometimes i just don't want to eat those healthy foods, i want to eat foods that i can't eat and shouldn't eat. It's difficult for me to plan meals, and pick out what's best. That's why this program works so WELL FOR ME! I just really need to get back to the program! YEAH that's right, i'm getting back on and i'm gonna do it!

Whoa, thanks for your listening :)

Until next time,

PS--> What do you do to keep yourself from overeating like crazy when you go to dinner / parties / weddings / showers / functions??? Input and comments are greatly appreciated!

better day

So today was a much better day. Thank you wonderful blog people for the great words of advice and encouragement. It was much needed and much appreciated.

Also, my beloved New Orleans Saints WON TODAY!!!!! Which makes me a happy, happy lady :)

So let's get this week started off on the right foot. And my sister's wedding is in 13 days, ahhhh!!! I'm soooooo not ready to be walking down the aisle, and having people starring at me.... But i've got my high waist long thigh Spanx bought and ready to go-- yikes. I had wanted to have a "DATE" for my sister's wedding, oh well that's not happening. I'm happy that my best friend / roommate is coming with me to the wedding. Pictures to follow in a few weeks!

okay that's all for now folks.

Happy Sunday.

Keep it real.

Peace.

set back

I really hate my bad habits, and the fact that when i go to my dad's house to house sit. I lose all habits of self-control.

I ordered take-out sushi which i haven't had in forever, and have way too many rolls. I eat myself into a frenzy, and no i feel nauseus and sick to my stomach. UGGGH. Now i've undone all of the hardwork that i did this week.

Oh way, no use in beating myself up now. It's not going to do any good. I just needed to rant.

So thank you for listening :)

I just need to turn over a new leaf, and get back to better health and better foods as soon as i am not sick to my stomach anymore.

Let's not let bad days, turn into bad weeks and months.

What do YOU do to rebound back when you have a bad day/days? How do you turn around your bad times to keep them from worsening?

HOt 100 Update #1

So the Hot 100 challenge has been really great. I have some great followers of my blog, thanks to it.

So thank you Steve, for issuing this challenge :)

I really like having goals, challenges, things to work hard for. I may not do the best all the time, but that's okay. And i'm totally okay with that. My weight loss blogging journey has brought so many wonderful and amazing people into my life, and i am incredibly grateful and thankful for that.

Goals:

1) I definitely will be sleeping more- It helps with weight loss, energy, and mood :)--

Well 5 out of the 7 nights this 1st week i've sleep 8-9 hours so yay!
2) I WILL exercise 4-5 times a week, and doing some weights too.--

I've worked out 5 times in the last week. And I've increased my length on the elliptical machine by 2 minutes.
3) Continue to have good foods prepared and cooked, so i'm not tempted to stop for junk food and fast food after clinicals, school, working out, etc.--

This was another success, well mostly. I ate out with my clinical group after we finished another rotation on Wednesday. We went to O'Charley's where i had like 4 of those delicious and amazing bread rolls, potato soap, and chicken pasta. So not on my food plan. But they were sooooo good and yummy. So at least the cheat, was good.
4) Be way more committed to Ideal Protein, follow the plan exactly, to maximize my weight loss!--

I've done great with Ideal Protein this week, I need to keep up the great work, to maximize my weight loss and to help with my fitness. So that i can be the best Brittany that i can be.

Oh yeah, if you're interested in learning more about Ideal Protein please contact me :)

half-marathon decision

So i've thought about it, and i have decided to walk the half-marathon. My mom and my sister will most likely be jogging/running the marathon. SO i may be doing it by myself!

If any of you are interested in walking with me, definitely feel free :) Your verbal and textual support is always appreciated and encouraged.

http://www.youraustinmarathon.com/

At this moment, what my current pace is-- i will be cutting it short to finish 13.1 miles in 4 hours. Even if i come in at right at 4 hours, I'll still be getting a Medal!!! How freaking excited, right?!?!

So over the next 21 weeks i'll be working on training, getting shape, increasing my pace-- along with finishing school, graduating, studying for NCLEX-PN, doing my 100 miles challenge for October and doing the HOT 100 challenge! And then there's also moving to Austin, packing, finding a place to live, and getting settled! WHOA BABY! There's a busy few months coming up! But i'm so excited. I feel that my heart is in the right place, and going in the right place and the right direction.

I also need to work on my Half-Marathon playlist for my ipod. Suggestions also recommended.

I am just so excited for this. Never in the past 7 years have i thought this is something i could do, and complete! This is huge. I have faith in myself, and i believe that this is something i can complete, and will do well. I know that i have what i need to get prepared and train for this race. What a gift to myself! I will wear that medal proudly for days following the Half-Marathon :)

stay tuned tomorrow, for HOT 100 update!

Ca C'est Bon!

Papa Red-- This one's for you!

I leave you with 2 thoughts ...

Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero! (Seize the day, put no trust in tomorrow)

No day but today, forget regret or life is yours to miss! -- RENT

half marathon??!

Okay so input is appreciated...

So in August i had decided i was going to walk a half-marathon in Austin in February. Yes you heard right a half-marathon, that is 13.1 miles. WHOA! I had barely been doing 13.1 miles of exercise in a week, but over the last 3 weeks i've been exercising 3-4 times a week and i feel great.

I've been walking, doing the elliptical, and riding the stationary bike. Some days all 3, some days just one. And i've been doing some strength training like 3 days a week. I don't want to do too much lifting, since muscle weighs more than fat, and more muscle will decrease the amount of weight i will lose for my weigh-ins. I have a friend who is a personal trainer, who set me up with a program to exercise 4-5 times/week.

So yesterday i told a guy friend that i was going to do it, and he questions me. Saying something you know that's 12 miles right, and i said NO! It's 13.1! He goes, well can you do that?! I Said YES! of course i can.

Now, since yesterday i've been thinking about it. That's 13.1 MILES! I'm just concerned with completing it, in the allotted time. Since i'm walking the half-marathon, i have 4 hours to complete the half-marathon. I think that is totally do-able. Right now walking on the treadmill or outside on the track- it takes 20ish minutes to walk 1.25 minutes- So to do 13.1 miles at my current pace would take somewhere around close to 3 hours.

I REALLY wanted to do the half-marathon, it seems like a great goal. But is the goal too much for me right now, is the goal too big to attain?!

Thoughts on: doing a half-marathon for the first time? Should i do the 5k instead? How else should i be preparing to walk the half-marathon!?!

Any input is greatly appreciated.

Blog Award :) and fitblog #2

So while i'm watching Glee and waiting for FitBlog! I was looking at some blogs, and found out that i was given an award :)

this is my FIRST AWARD! This is so exciting, and i am so excited!

The award was given from Jessica over at Rotund Revolution. So Thank You jess!

With this award, comes three requirements!

1. Thank the person who gave it to you. Jessica, you totally made my day! I'm glad we're blogging friends, and i'm glad we found each other. (cheesy yes, but true). I feel like a real blogger with my first award :)

2. Sum up your blog philosophy in five words. Five words. Only five words, goodness: I WILL NOT GIVE UP!

3. Pay it forward by nominate ten more awesome bloggers.

1. Melissa @ Journey to Marvelous

2. Carly @ Swim Run Om

3. Emmie @ Skinnyemmie

4. Karen @ Waisting Time

5. Blubeari @ Shrinking Blubeari

6. Jessica @ 266NeverAgain

7. Emily @ Emilys Inner Skinny

8. Kenz @ All The Weigh

9. Tiff @ Project 365

10. Pippa @ Pippa's Porch

Also, tonight was my 2nd fitblog session, and i absolutely love it! Here's a link for anyone not involved to check it out -- http://katywidrick.com/fitblogchat

oh mondays...

SO i'm tired exhausted, and cranky. I just want to eattttttt. But i'm not going to. I'm not going to. I'm not going to. I'm not going to.

If i say it enough, hopefully it will eventually go in!

Even though today's weather is absolutely BEAUTIFUL, i'm stressed out.

I can't wait for my sister's wedding to be over with, and for my stress and anxiety level to go down for a few weeks!!!

And i did 40 minutes of cardio/weights inside, then went walk 1.25 miles outside!

Yay.

Now i seriously need to start training for walking the half-marathon in April. I've got like 4 months and 3 weeks! Yowza.

things are getting there

firstly: a quote ...

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us, it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we’re liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
- Nelson Mandela

Secondly, i went grocery shopping tonight and i bought some life saver gummies things, and i was oh i'll just have a few while i was football/moving (ugggh emotional eating) and so i did. After a few, i felt sick to my stomach! So i stopped eating and threw them away. Sad, that i wasted my money on those, but so happy that i stopped myself before i ate the whole bag. I normally don't keep sweet, chips, chocolate, etc in my house anymore because i just don't have the strength or self-control to not eat those things. They are just too tempting.

Thoughts from you awesome people about self-control, temptations when it comes to eating?!

some people...

Just a quick something:

1) I LOVE FOOTBALL!

2) I should never go on a first date to a football game. I would probably scare the crapppp out of my date. But if he didn't leave, then i knew he would be a keeper :)

3) SOME people are so just down awful rude, mean, and hurtful. I was walking into the stadium for the football game with my friend, and there was this older lady he was quite a bit larger than I was. Nearby there were 2 college guys, obviously drunk, who were snickering at her and laughing at her. I felt so incredibly bad for her. It hurt me, that some people think in order to be cool they have to make fun of other people. I never really understood that. I guess because i had been made fun of since i was a little girl. Some people i just want to hit them with a piece of wood, but i guess it's a good thing that i don't.

4) I did good at the football game... i had Fajitas for lunch when we were tailgating, 1 shiner book, PLENTY of water, only a few chips like 5 or 6, and no stadium food! Yayyyy accomplishment for avoiding concession stand food :)

good night, lovely blogsphere.

much love.

CLOTHES!

Happy Saturday blogsphere :)

So this morning i'm trying to figure out what i'm wearing to a football game, and i had pulled a few shirts out of my closet because i wasn't sure what was gonna fit.


So the first shirt i tried on ....... FIT and beautifully! It's a tshirt and a LARGE! This is fabulous, and the shirt is comfortable it's not tight. that is a beautiful thing, and my shorts and now 2 sizes smaller than what i was in April when i started my weight loss journey! This is such a beautiful thing, and a beautiful moment for me!

I can't wait for the rest of the clothes that are in boxes in my closet to fit!

Happy Saturday!

MUCH LOVE.

P.S. --> WHO DAT!

Must watch video!!

I found this amazing video, just watch it! It's only 5 minutes!

And i decided someday i'm going to do an Ironman :)

ramblings, HOT 100 challenge!!!

I feel like i need to sound all smart in the blogging world, but that's not what i want to do or had in mind to do with this blog. I wanted to use the blog for a venting of sorts of my mind and heart, and my weight loss and struggles with food, and if i can help other people along the way, then so be it!

And i definitely love the TOM, water retention, and how i don't lose much weight when i'm on my period. It's just absolutely wonderful. NOT!

I've worked out 3 days this week, and tomorrow will be 4! How exciting. Go me! I was always told how exercising, is good for my and will help bring down my stress level, and will help to not make me want to eat so much... and boy it is so true! What a beautiful thing. I really do feel better about myself.

I think having a goal to work towards- wanting to be healthier, being able to sit comfortably in airplane, looking at yourself in the mirror and not wanting to gag or turn away; it's a beautiful thing. It makes weight loss and all the hard work, more attainable. Making those short term goals, and things to reach work and work for not as painful.

I have like 3 or 4 boxes of clothes in my closet, i really can't wait to be able to wear those- and to try some of those clothes on that i haven't worn in months and years, and for the clothes to fit! i'm just so excited for this new me that i'm finding that will come to be. I am so excited to be losing weight finally, and doing this for me, and not because anyone else wants me to. I'm excited to lose the weight, and for it never to be found again!!!

I graduate from LPN school in 103 days! oh my word. That is so exciting and so scary! I'm gonna be a big girl again and getting out into the real word. I CAN NOT wait to play ultimate frisbee again some day.


that's all for now folks, keep it real.

PS- A challenged was posted by South Beach Steve, and i can not turn down a good challenge :) So here goes! You can read more about it, here!


The challenge officially started Yesterday, September 23rd, but we have until October 1st to post our information. The challenge will require weekly posting and updates. Part of the challenge, we have to set 3 goals to achieve for the 100 days, definitely my least favorite part.

1) I definitely will be sleeping more- It helps with weight loss, energy, and mood :)
2) I WILL exercise 4-5 times a week, and doing some weights too.
3) Continue to have good foods prepared and cooked, so i'm not tempted to stop for junk food and fast food after clinicals, school, working out, etc.
4) Be way more committed to Ideal Protein, follow the plan exactly, to maximize my weight loss!

This really is exciting! I'm so pumped for these next 98 days :) LET'S DO THIS!!! WE CAN DO THIS!!! Let's change America and the world, one healthier person at a time!

Inspirational Weight Loss Quotes

Quotes from Christina, and i thought i'd share them!



Inspirational Weight Loss Quotes
I thought I would just list some motivational quotes that may help some of us get through the rough times.

David Viscott
You must begin to think of yourself as becoming the person you want to be.

Eleanor Roosevelt
You must do the thing you think you cannot do.

Ralph Marston
Your goals, minus your doubts, equal your reality.

George S. Patton
You're never beaten until you admit it.

Lee Iacocca
You've got to say, I think that if I keep working at this and want it badly enough I can have it. It's called perseverance.

Unknown Author
You don't drown by falling in the water. You drown by staying there.

Vince Lombardi
It's not whether you get knocked down; it's whether you get up.

Thomas A. Edison
Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.

Thomas Jefferson
The sovereign invigorator of the body is exercise, and of all the exercises walking is the best.

Carl Sandburg
The time for action is now. It's never too late to do something.

Harriet Beecher Stowe
When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hold on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.

Plato
The first and the best victory is to conquer self.

Vincent Lombardi
The good Lord gave you a body that can stand most anything. It's your mind you have to convince.

Winston Churchill
Never, never, never, never give up.

Fit Blog #1

Well tonight i participated in my first FitBlog, hosted by twitter chat. It's really quite amazing. Answering questions, and getting connected with all kinds of different people who love and are interested in health, weight loss, fitness, exercise.

Such a beautiful thing... I was sooo cranky, crampy, crappy, and exhausted and stressed out.

Having people who understand what i'm going through, and what i'm dealing with REALLY HELPED OUT. And it helped me out to have something to do, and not emotionally eat myself crazy after i ate dinner. I also didn't eat emotionally tonight, i suppose, because i know that i'm weighing in tomorrow, and i totally don't want to wreck the work i've done this week!!

This blogging this is really great :) And a great source of venting and frustration for me :)

See you next week, fit blog-ers!

Friend Makin Monday

So Kenz at All The Weigh is hosting another Friend Making Monday ... great idea! Check it out :)

Health and Body Image

1) If you could magically change one thing about your body, what would it be? Well, my weight loss will come with time and commitment and i'm okay. I really wish the acne fairy, would take away the blimishes on my face. Silly PCOS!

2) What is your best physical feature? Easiest answer ... My beautiful, curly hair :)


3) Do you weigh yourself daily? Hourly? Weekly? Bi-weekly? Never? I weigh-in once a week on Wednesdays. I would almost be obsessive if i weighed more than once a week.

4) Do you workout regularly? If so, how does if affect you from day to day? I really hadn't been the last 2 months, but i rejoined the gym last week, and i worked out today and i feel good. I am also preparing and training to walk the Austin half-marathon in February, so i'm excited about that.

5) What is the healthiest thing you do for yourself on a regular basis? I drink water like my life depended on it. Since starting Ideal Protein in April, i RARELY drink coke or anything else.


6) If you could look like a celebrity, who would you choose to look like? I would love to say that I wouldn't want to look like one, but I'd be full of it. And i'm trying to be honest with myself ... but i can't think of anyone! ideas?

7) What do you do to make yourself feel pretty/handsome? I love getting dressed up head to toe.... make-up, pretty dresses and skirts, manicures and pedicures, fun heels :)

8) What are you most attracted to in the opposite sex? Gorgeous, beautiful eyes, kind, honest, funny, gentleman.

9) Have you ever avoided situations because you didn't want people to see your body shape? Oh definitely... i haven't been to the beach in over 2 years, and i don't go swimming in public because i don't feel comfortable being in a swimsuit in public... but that will be changing soon :)


10) How do you feel about your overall appearance? Hmmm, I definitely feel better than i did 4.5 months ago, which is a great thing. I still have a lot of work to do though, but one day at a time, and one step at a time.


So feel free to make a friend, and answer the questions for yourself!!!

showers, parties, gatherings

So, so far my ability to avoid snacking like a crazy person at parties, showers, gatherings, etc.

I don't know what it is. Before i've gone to parties, showers since i started this new path, i've eaten a good lunch or dinner before going too. It's like i see all these foods that i don't eat now, and i can't help myself but just to eat, eat, eat. I feel like my stomach thinks it's never going to be able to eat food again.

It's really aggravating for me, and frustrating not to mention, stupid. UGGGH!

Any idea/thoughts peoples?

:)

things i'm looking forward to...

Lately i'm my head i've been thinking about all the things i'm looking forward to when i lose the weight, and i am back to the the healthy / fit / real me. I often have difficulty committing to something, and sticking with it the entire time. So i thought it might be best to write it down or type it out rather, so i can visualize what i want to help me to stay committed.

1) excited about my stomach being gone
2) looking forward to being able to wear the dresses and skirts that i want to and not be nervous about what i look like in them
3) having less total area to shave, pahahaha.
4) having people turn their heads when i walk down the street, because i'm just gorgeous, and they don't even recognize me.
5) not being the largest person in our family photos
6) not looking like a big round giant next to my friends in photos.
7) being able to shop in the normal stores, and NEVER AGAIN will i shop in Lane Bryant or the plus size sections!!!!!!
8) Being able to share clothes with my friends, mom, and sister!
9) Being finally happy with who i am, and really being able to love myself despite my faults.
10) Not being angry at myself for what i look like.

Just some things to share. What are YOU looking forward to, to being healthy / fit / lean and mean???

------------

P.S. Officially as of yesterday, i lost 10% of my body weight!!! SO INCREDIBLY EXCITING!
I decided today, that since the program i'm on doesn't give us any rewards or anything like Weight Watchers does, i'm going to make a bookmark or something to put stickers on it for every 5 pounds i lose as a reminder, of how great i'm doing and to keep me moving and motivated!!!

L&D

So today for clinicals, i was in Labor & Delivery. I was given the opportunity to go in for a C-Section, and a Vaginal Birth! WOW, what an amazing experience. I was able to witness 2 babies come into this world. It was such a beautiful and amazing experience.

I really think after i work as an LPN for a while, i want to go back to school for my RN, and then someday work in Labor and Delivery. In the meantime, i could get a job as an LPN in Wellbaby nursery or postpartum.

wacky weigh-in wednesday

So i weighed in this morning, i lost 2.5 pounds for this week, and 1.5 inches. I definitely felt like i lost more like 3-4 pounds, but that's okay. A loss, is a loss. I'll take what i can lose :)

And i got signed up for another month at the gym, so i'll be going tomorrow for Zumba, that should be interesting for sure.

It's been a long time coming...

So i've been gaining weight increasingly for the past 6-7 years, excluding the time period in 2006 where i lost 30 pounds. I was really encouraged in 2006 from the death of my grandpa, i wanted to lose the weight for him, mostly. I think really wanting to be fit and lose weight never worked out before because it was not something i really wanted. I never wanted to really work hard, and do the work it took to lose weight and work hard and be successful at it.

I probably had been trying to figure out some sort of diet since i was 14 or 15, because my mom wanted me to, or my dad wanted me to, or i was needed to lose weight while i was swimming competitively. It's been too long. And i'd been emotionally eating, and sneaking food around the house, and trying to hide it from other people, since 3rd or 4th grade. That is really too long to dealing with this. I know that sometimes it can be a lifetime battle, and i'm sure it probably will be- but i would really love to get it under control. I would love to develop some good ways to cope with my emotions, instead of stuffing my face with food.

I really think that it took my best friend telling me she was concerned about me, my health, my life, and that she did not want me to die young because of my weight. It took me that realization that i was at the bottom and the only way i could go was up. It took me feeling like i ran into a brick wall going 100 mph, to actually do something different and really change my life, my eating habits, my sedentary lifestyle. It really has to be different, must be different, and will be different this time.

I know that we will gain weight and lose weight at times, but never ever ever will i be as big as i was this time. I won't let it happen, i just won't.

I think that getting out of Louisiana, and moving to Texas where there are more things to do to be active, most things to do outside, and and everything isn't centered around activities involved with the sweet southern cooking that is South Louisiana. I think having this push of moving to a new city, with a new start, with meeting new people, making new friends, and having new opportunities is exactly what i need to really change me, for the better.

I love myself, i know that for sure. But i am so sick and tired of being the emotional eater, i'm so tired of being FAT. I can't wait until the day when i'll be okay with taking full-length pictures, and not just the face pictures.


enough for now, see you on the other side.

-XOXO