Eat fast, but eat smart

I don't remember where i got this from, but it's helpful.Sometimes you are out with other people and you have no choice but to eat fast foods. Choose wisely.


Burger King-
Ask for a Veggie Whopper (not to be confused with the BK Veggie Burger, which has 400 calories—surprisingly, 160 more than a single hamburger). This includes all the trappings of the Whopper—tomatoes, lettuce, mayo, ketchup, pickles, and onions on a toasted sesame-seed bun—minus the meat patty.

Save: 240 calories, or get a Whopper Jr. (with meat) and save 330 calories



In-N-Out Burger-
Ask for any sandwich "protein style" and it will come wrapped in a lettuce leaf instead of on a bun.
Save: 70 calories
Ask them to hold the meat on your cheeseburger so it's just a bun with a slice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onions.
Save: 100 calories



Moe's Southwest Grill-
Ask for a burrito "streaker style" and they'll drop the tortilla.
Save: 310 calories



Pizza Hut-
Order any pie "fit 'n delicious" style to get half the cheese and extra sauce and veggies.
Save: 400 calories for a personal pie; 100 to 300 calories per slice of a medium pizza.



Popeye's Louisiana Kitchen-
Although the option is no longer on the official menu, some franchises may honor a request for "naked chicken" (grilled chicken breast instead of fried) on sandwiches or in salads.
Save: About 100 calories

Outsmart restaurant menus with these tricks.



Qdoba Mexican Grill-
Request that any burrito on the menu "go naked" and it will arrive without the standard four-ounce tortilla. This advice also works for salads that are served in a taco shell.
Save: 300 calories



Starbucks-
Order any hot beverage in a "short" size and they'll shrink your drink to an eight-ounce cup.
Save: 140 to 350 calories

Add protein powder to any drink. For 30 calories, you'll add six grams of protein and one gram of fiber.



Subway-
Order any sandwich as a salad.
Save: Up to 520 calories (depending on the size of the sandwich)

Wendy's
Ask for a "veggie" burger to get a sandwich sans patty.
Save: 220 calories, or get a junior-size hamburger and save 90 calories

No One is perfect

A lot of people are getting plastic surgeries these days or having weight loss procedures done. In my opinion that is all uncalled for. We are beautiful as we were created and if you don't like something change it. All day long we see sexy actresses, singers, TV/radio personalities, model, etc and think, "Wow! I wish I looked like THAT. He/she is so perfect.". WRONG! None of those people are perfect. Beyonce says she hates her arms, but she didn't go out and cut out her arm fat....she simply works out to keep the body she has. Kim Kardashian admits she has cellulite and even did a cover not too long ago and requested no air brushing. They are real people just like you and I. As opposed to complaining I say we do something about it. Yeah they might have the top rated trainers, the best cooks to prepare the best meals, the best nutritionists, but so what. Its the fact that they took the initiative to even get started. Gym too expensive? walk around your block, community, or a local park. Can't afford a nutritionist? There are plenty of websites that have meal plans (such as this one) that have the same meal plans as a nutritionist would). Don't have time? Make time! This is YOU we are talking about here.Who or what is more important than YOU? Got a family to take care of? So what? How can you take care of your family if you can't even take care of yourself. No one is perfect. Learn to love YOU. Once you learn how great you are the world will be a better place. Don't blame it on your husband/boyfriend/significant other, friends, family, co-workers, etc. because no one can change how you feel about yourself. YOU are he only one that can decide how you feel. In the words of comedian Kat Williams, "B*tch it's a muthf*ckin-steam of YOURSELF, how did I change how you feel about you?". Love the skin you're in :)

Get Active!

In motion is asking all Saskatchewan people to “Join the Movement” of physical activity


for health benefits. Get started by incorporating physical activity into your daily life by

trying some of these “easy ways to get active”. Strive towards achieving Canada’s

Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living’s recommendation of accumulating 30-

60 minutes of moderate physical activity most days, preferably daily.

1 0 0 EASY WAYS TO GET ACTIVE

1. Going shopping? Find a parking spot that is at least a brisk ten-minute walk to

the store.

2. Walk your dog, and invite your family and friends to join you.

3. Prune, weed and dig your garden. You’ll improve flexibility in your arms, legs

and back while enjoying the outdoors.

4. Dance to your favorite music 10 minutes each day.

5. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

6. Ride your bike.

7. Play catch with your kids.

8. Walk to the store for milk.

9. Skip a rope.

10. Try curling in a local league or bonspiel.

11. Dance with your kids.

12. Rake your leaves.

13. Trade in your power mower for a push mower.

14. Wash and wax your car, vigorously!

15. Hit the trail! Discover local trails or try trails in new communities. Don’t forget

your bike, running shoes, cross country skis or hiking boots.

16. Go for a swim at your local pool or in your favorite lake.

17. Join a marching band!

18. Grab a racquet and play squash, racquetball or badminton.

19. Try walking, rollerblading, wheeling or biking to work.

20. Join a fitness class.

21. Hit a tennis ball with a friend.

22. Play softball, baseball or slow pitch.

23. Row your boat.

24. Put a basketball hoop up in your yard.

25. Try a yoga or tai-chi class.

26. Strike out inactivity by bowling.
 
27. Play soccer in a league, or with family and friends in a park or field.


28. Play tag.

29. Make housework fun! Dust and vacuum to your favorite tunes and throw in a

dance step or two along the way!

30. Celebrate your cultural heritage by learning a traditional dance.

31. Play hopscotch with your kids.

32. Add a stationary bike or exercise equipment to your home.

33. Flood ice in your yard or neighborhood park for skating or hockey.

34. Climb hills during your next walk or hike.

35. Go golfing and walk the course.

36. Try a new type of dancing such as square, folk, round, jig, hip hop or ballroom

dancing.

37. Pitch in and help build a trail in your community. It’s great exercise and there

will be a new facility for the enjoyment of future generations.

38. Dig out your hoola hoop and twist to some old favorites.

39. Suggest a break during work meetings and encourage your colleagues to stretch,

walk the halls, or climb the stairs.

40. Post a recording sheet on the stairwell at work for people to sign when they use

the stairs. Award prizes and incentives.

41. To encourage use of the stairs, place a question to a riddle at the bottom of the

stairs and place the answer at the top.

42. Replace your coffee breaks with walking breaks. You’ll enjoy the outdoors and

be revitalized when you go back to work!

43. Organize a lunch-time walking or fitness club. Bring in speakers from time to

time to keep you motivated.

44. Organize an Alternative Transportation Day. Walk or cycle to work.

45. Be an agent for change. Determine the task or define the problem in the meeting

room, then discuss it while out for a 20-minute walk.

46. Roll your shoulders and stretch your neck when sitting in front of the computer.

47. Contract your back and stomach muscles while sitting on the bus or in your

office.

48. Try a new physical activity: goal ball, ultimate Frisbee, speed skating, folk

dancing, fencing and many others are available.

49. Join a league, club or leisure centre. The social support will keep you in motion.

50. Rise one-half hour early in the morning and go for walk. Ask a family member or

friend to join you.

51. Take advantage of local hiking trails.

52. Walk in your local malls if weather is an issue for you.

53. Hit the slopes with your skiis. It’s fun and it will give your lungs a good workout.

54. Get off the bus a couple of stops early and walk the rest of the way home.

55. Shovel your sidewalks.

56. Keep pathways in your neighborhood free of snow so the elderly and disabled can

get their mail and walk to the bus stop or corner store with ease.

57. If a seniors’ residence is your home, start a hall-walking group. Meet daily and

stroll the halls. Go for distance by adding a route each time.

58. At school, create a walking school bus! Have parents or older siblings take turns

walking the children to school each day instead of taking the car.

59. Have students research games, activities or dances that are a part of their cultural

heritage as part of a history, geography or physical education assignment. Present

the information, then have all students participate in the activity.

60. Ensure that your child’s pre-school program includes vigorous physical activities

each day.

61. Have students design, organize and implement active living intramural programs.

Make sure all interest groups are represented when planning this activity.

62. Have students make a list of different activities that get the body moving – from

walking to more vigorous activities. Encourage them to participate in these

activities, as well as traditional sport and exercise programs.

63. Allow teachers to organize “Gym Blasts”. It’s a full day of physical activity

games the whole school can partake in.

64. Promote physical activity in the school by having school teams challenge the

teachers.

65. Organize a parent and toddler active living group. Meet weekly for vigorous

activities with babies and toddlers.

66. Have a street hockey tournament.

67. Play shinny.

68. Go skating.

69. Play snow pitch.

70. Go tobogganing.

71. Snowshoe to your neighbors.

72. How about a camping trip? Take advantage of hiking trails, swimming in the lake

and other Park activities.

73. Join a martial arts program.

74. Climbing walls can be good for you! Try rock or wall climbing. It will challenge

your arms, legs and finger strength, as well as challenge your balance.

75. Do a walking tour of art galleries, museums or libraries.

76. Collect and chop your firewood.

77. Do sit ups, pushups, stretch or other exercises at home.

78. Participate in community, provincial and national events that offer physical

activity opportunities. In many cases, you’ll be supporting a worthwhile event

while enjoying social interaction and getting some physical activity.

79. Try dogsledding. It’s more fun that you may think!

80. Play hockey or ringette. Join a league or play a “pick up” game.

81. Build a quinsy (snow hut) with family and friends.

82. Prepare for cold weather by video taping an episode of your favorite exercise

show. Invite a friend over and sweat away the cabin fever.

83. Make a personal or a family commitment to try a new physical activity each

season: snow shoe, bowl, dance, hike, curl, etc.

84. Host a barbeque in your neighborhood, apartment complex or village. Invite

guests to play active games in the park, playground or open space. Then enjoy

feasting on healthy foods.

85. Organize a neighborhood-walking group. Choose different routes, one for each

day of the week, and invite family and friends to join you.

86. Join a lawn bowling league.

87. Red Rover, Red Rover…don’t forget about old fashioned street games like Red

Rover, Kick the Can, Follow the Leader, and Hide and Seek. What a fun way to

stay active!

88. Support your community with a physical activity twist…help build a new

structure at your neighborhood playground, a Habitat for Humanity home, a barn

raising or simply participate in a local fundraising run or walk. The benefits are

amazing!

89. Orienteering in the snow.

90. Have a winter picnic on skiis.

91. Join a bird watching club. You will get to enjoy the outdoors while making new

friends.

92. Enjoy a moonlit stroll or use a flashlight to light the way on a trail.

93. Play a musical instrument (strum a guitar, play a trumpet or “tickle the ivories”

for upper-body workouts).

94. Try water polo.

95. Play beach or court volleyball.

96. Toss a football in the park or join a football team.

97. Play table tennis.

98. Remember Jumping Jacks?

99. Play croquet, lawn darts or horseshoes.

100. Think small doses. Do an activity that will get your heart beating faster, even just

for ten minutes at a time. Walk briskly, climb a few extra stairs, dance, walk up a

hill, be active in the pool, skip rope or play tag with the children. Try to

accumulate at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day.

Help others to be physically active by holding a community sports equipment exchange

or used equipment sale.

Find a physical activity you enjoy doing and do it for life!

Please, always check with your physician before beginning any new exercise. It is

important to choose activities that are right for you. Following the advice of a

health or fitness professional will help to ensure the success of your new in motion

lifestyle!
 
 
courtesy of regainmotion.org

Be Green, compost.

• Use cans to plant seeds
• Use old tea cups and sauce pans to grow seeds
• Try growing your own herbs

Compost

Get a in, pitch fork, shovel,garden cart, compost thermometer

use the 4 brown to 1 green ratio

greens and browns:
fresh grass clippings, fresh manure (horse, chicken, rabbits, or cows), kitchen scraps (fruits, veggies, coffee grounds, tea bags), weeds, green leaves, left over fruits, brown leaves (dry), dried grass, corn stalks, starw, sawdust (in moderation)

DO NOT ADD:
meat, fish, animal fats, shredded newspapers/office papers, ashes from bar-b-q grill, dog/cat feces.

sterilize compost for potting by microwave or poor boiling water over it

for more detailed info on composting you can buy a book online it shouldn't cost you more than $10.

Free Veggies!!!

I got this list from a friend who does weight watchers. These veggies are either zero calories or very close to it. You can use this list as a reference of good complex carbs. Enjoy!

• asperagus-12 spears or 1 cup
• green eans-1 cup
• wax beans- 1 cup
• beets- 1 cup
• broccoli- 1 cup
• brussel sprouts- 1 cup
• cabbage- 1 cup
• carrots- uncooked-1cup, baby-10 pcs, large-2
• cauliflower-1 cup
• celery-1 cup
• cucumer- 1 cup
• egg plant- 1 cup
• endive- 1 cup
• escarole- 1 cup
• greens- 1 cup (beet, chard, collard, dandelion, kale, mustard & turnip)
• hearts of palm-1 cup
• jicama-1 cup
• lettuce-1 cup
• mushrooms fresh-1 cup
• okra-1 cup
• onions-uncooked 1 cup
• peppers-1cup
• pickles-1 cup or 1 large
• pimientos-1 cup
• radishes-1 cup
• salads-1 cup (mixed greens, sde salad, tossed salad)
• salsa (fat free) 2 tbsp.
• sauerkraut-1 cup
• scallions-1 cup
• spinach- 1 cup
• squash- 1 cup (spaghetti, summer zucchini)
• frozen veggies w/o sauce, cooked-1 cup
• tomatoes-dried (not in oil)1/4 cup, fresh/canned 1 cup, paste 2 tbsp., sauce, canned 1 cup
• turnips- 1 cup
• watercress- 1 cup
• zucchini-1 cup

Confidence

Hello all! Confidence is a big part of this whole weight loss process. There are many ways to do this. One of them is have a photo shoot. I don't mean take pictures with your digital camera and post them on Facebook. I'm talking about going to a professional and having your picture taken. This will make you feel great and give you motivation to continue on your journey. Remember that this is a work in progress and keep in mind the results you want for the end product. There are many places that are inexpensive and offer discounts, or you can even find a photography student who is looking to build/expand their portfolio. Another way, as I have mentioned before, is to reward yourself with new clothes. I went to Ross the other day in search for new clothes for work and I found that the sizes I was buying before actually fit big. I was so happy and proud of myself, because I then realized that all my hard work had been paying off. Also, make a list of all your qualities and you will be surprised at all the good things that make up wonderful YOU. Also, recognize your insecurities. Think of the things that make you feel uncomfortable and work on ways to change the things you don't like.  If there are things you do not like that's fine, find ways to work on it. Another thing you can do is talk to your friends and family about your progress and future goals. They will support your efforts, acknowledge your progress, and encourage you to continue. In addition, remember never to complain. Be positive and be grateful that you are better off today than you were yesterday. For example, there are some weeks where I feel I did my best and I didn't even lose 1 lb. It's OK, because at least I didn't gain more weight and if I did then I need to see what I did wrong and fix it the next week. After you try these things you should feel great, so great in fact that you will want to help someone else feel as confident as you do. helping friends/family feel better about themselves will help you as well, because you are confident enough to tell someone else how its done. If all else fails fake honey! Faking confidence in the end actually make you feel that way. Well, on that note, I will be getting for my photo shoot next week. Til next time.

Tips for Better Sleep

Sleep

check out this link to find ways to help you get in those ZzZzZz...I know I am always talking about sleep, but believe me it's that important. There's nothing better than starting your day feeling rested. Once you begin to get enough sleep you will notice a difference in your mood, skin, digestion, etc. Remember that your body needs time to recharge and if you don't give it the right amount of time to do it the tasks are incomplete. Use the tips in this video (& below this sleeping kitty picture) and keep in mind all of the things I have mentioned before. Side note, I lost 4 lbs last week. :)

1. Avoid waking up to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night by drinking anything about 2-3 hours before you go to bed.

2. Avoid staying up late and waking up early.

3. If you don't sleep enough is bad ans when you sleep too much its bad so remember everything is good in moderation.

4. Keep the room dark: don't turn on the TV/PC or go on facebook Mobile.

5. No sweets, smoked meats, chocolate, energy drinks, tomatoes sauce, chili, pizza, or spicy foods before bed. Eat foods that will help you fall asleep, such as cherries, bananas, toast, oatmeal, or warm milk)

6. Keep a pen an pad next to your bed side and write down your thoughts or the things you need to do the next day. This will help clear your mind.

7. If you grind your teeth at night you either need to see a dentist, get a night guard, or try acupuncture.

8. Develop a sleep schedule, we all have inner clocks.

9. If you are experiencing frequent urination, see a doctor.

10. If you snore you might get rid of it by losing weight, changing the position you sleep in, avoid alcohol, etc. Never take sleeping pills unless suggested by your doctor and all else fails.

For more info talk to your doctor about your sleep troubles.

Progress

Progres has been made! :) im very excited to say i have lost a total of 15 lbs. and 10 inches! YAY ME! I've been putting in my 8 hours of sleep, I've been going to the gym for an hour and a half four days a week, eating every two hours, staying away from fried and fast food, definately staying away form sweets but I still have the occasional cheat. As a reward to myself I purchased some new workout clothes and I'm working on getting some shoes as well. I also got myself a few new dresses. It helps to buy dress while you're losing weight because pants are too complicated for me right now. If I make my goal for September my reward will be new workout shoes. I want the Nike Free which run about $85. They are a bit pricey, but they are so light and comfy that it's worth it. I'll post some new recipies soon and I have a ton of information to post as well. Til next time..keep it up!

Protein

Here's a list of the amount of protein in certain foods, just a bit of useful info.

Beef

• Hamburger patty, 4 oz – 28 grams protein (remember to always purchase LEAN meats)

• Steak, 6 oz – 42 grams (never fried)

• Most cuts of beef – 7 grams of protein per ounce

Chicken

• Chicken breast, 3.5 oz - 30 grams protein (always skinless)

• Chicken thigh – 10 grams (for average size)

• Drumstick – 11 grams

• Wing – 6 grams (made in the oven)

• Chicken meat, cooked, 4 oz – 35 grams (if you buy the chicken already cooked it may have too much sodium)

Fish

• Most fish fillets or steaks are about 22 grams of protein for 3 ½ oz (100 grams) of cooked fish, or 6 grams per ounce

• Tuna, 6 oz can - 40 grams of protein (don't add too much mayo)
Pork (try not to eat this too much)

• Pork chop, average - 22 grams protein

• Pork loin or tenderloin, 4 oz – 29 grams

• Ham, 3 oz serving – 19 grams (try turkey ham)

• Ground pork, 1 oz raw – 5 grams; 3 oz cooked – 22 grams

• Bacon, 1 slice – 3 grams (try turkey bacon instead)

• Canadian-style bacon (back bacon), slice – 5 – 6 grams

Eggs and Dairy

• Egg, large - 6 grams protein (use egg whites only)

• Milk, 1 cup - 8 grams (buy 2% milk)

• Cottage cheese, ½ cup - 15 grams (low fta)

• Yogurt, 1 cup – usually 8-12 grams, check label (Greek yogurt has double the protein of regular low fat yogurts)

• Soft cheeses (Mozzarella, Brie, Camembert) – 6 grams per oz

• Medium cheeses (Cheddar, Swiss) – 7 or 8 grams per oz

• Hard cheeses (Parmesan) – 10 grams per oz

Beans (including soy)

• Tofu, ½ cup 20 grams protein

• Tofu, 1 oz, 2.3 grams

• Soy milk, 1 cup - 6 -10 grams

• Most beans (black, pinto, lentils, etc) about 7-10 grams protein per half cup of cooked beans

• Soy beans, ½ cup cooked – 14 grams protein

• Split peas, ½ cup cooked – 8 grams

Nuts and Seeds (try to get lightly salted or non salted)

• Peanut butter, 2 Tablespoons - 8 grams protein

• Almonds, ¼ cup – 8 grams

• Peanuts, ¼ cup – 9 grams

• Cashews, ¼ cup – 5 grams

• Pecans, ¼ cup – 2.5 grams

• Sunflower seeds, ¼ cup – 6 grams

• Pumpkin seeds, ¼ cup – 8 grams

• Flax seeds – ¼ cup – 8 grams

Got hunger?

Well, for some reason I don't. I am loosing my appetite. This happens to me when I'm about to get sick, I'm eating every 2-3 hours on point, or I'm just not hungry. Some may say, "thats' great". Sure, I guess. It's kinda weird though, becasue I just take a few bites of my sanwhich and I'm done. I just had a turkey sanwhich I made myself and I took about four bites and had to throw the rest away. I kinda feel a bit of nausea. Is that normal?

There's No Reason Why You Can't....

I was browsing MSN and I saw this article. All of these people were very unfit and they became fit the moment they stopped making excuses for themselves and got to it. You need to analize your habits (eating, sleeping, emotional, etc). Once you figure out what changes need to be made then you have accomplished the hardest part. When I started last June I made a list of all of the harmful things I was doing to myself and how I could improve or change them. Slowly I started changing the way I eat, the way I viewed life, and the amount of activity that I was lacking in my life. From last June to December I had lost 15-20 lbs. This was all due to the changes I had made. I had a set back in Febuary because of a surgery I had, but as soon as I could I got on it again. It may seem a bit unrealistic to think that I can loose 100lbs in a year and a half, but other people have done it why can't I? I can and you can too!!!!

Check out the article (thanks MSN):

http://health.msn.com/weight-loss/slideshow.aspx?cp-documentid=100260063>1=31036

Beach Time

There’s no better place to hang out in the summer than the beach. How could you not love the sun glistening off the beautiful sea waters, the seagulls trying to eat your food, the annoying people next to you blasting unknown music. Ahh summer time. Living in Florida I go to the beach a lot. i decided to write about a few essential tips everyone should follow when going to the beach. For one, sunscreen is very important. If you do not wear enough you are exposing your skin to harmful UV rays, but if you wear too much you may dry out your skin or cause serious damage. For the most part you should avoid sun exposure between the hours of 10:00AM-3:00PM. Use a sunscreen that has at least 15SPF, the high number the better protection it provides. Children should use nothing lower than 30SPF and you should consult your pediatrician about baby sun exposure. Don’t forget to protect your lips too using a 15SPF lip balm. Also, always keep a bottle of aloe-based cream or gel to sooth your skin after being in the sun. it works wonders. Don’t forget to bring cover-ups such as sun glasses, hats, and protective clothing. A great investment would be a beach umbrella or a tent; many times these items go on sale at stores like Target, WalMart, ect. The sand gets hot too so bring a beach blanket or an extra towel to lie on. The most imperative tip of them all is to keep yourself hydrated. Drink plenty of water and keep your snacks healthy, such as, fresh fruit, cold sandwiches, carrots/celery, etc.


Also, be aware of your surroundings and keep in mind that around August and September its jellyfish season. Last year I had a terrible experience with that when I went to Key West. For those who don’t know, Jellyfish can be more harmful than they appear with long, spindly tentacles that can inflict red welts and severe pain. I even discovered that they don’t even have to sting you to release venom and harm you. Don’t clean the area with drinking water it will make you itch more, use sea water instead. If you have vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or baking soda use it. if you have any remove the tentacles with tweezers. Next, apply shaving cream and shave the area with a butter knife or tongue blade. Reapply vinegar or cortisone cream. Please contact your doctor if any of the following symptoms develop: nausea, vomiting, joint pain, headache, shortness of breath or a stumbling gait. I had to take antibiotics for a week and half and I wasn’t even stung directly. {Please note that the information I provided as a guide is not intended to be taken as medical advice.}

Snakes

I woke up in the middles of the night out of nowhere. Fear was upon me but nothing had happened to me. Not in real life anyway. I was out of breathe, heart racing, and shaking like I had been spooked. I looked around the room and just lay there for a minute. As I completely woke up and pulled myself together I realized I was having a bad dream. I usually have the same types of dreams, but this one was different. It was such an odd and vivid dream that I could have confused it for being real. I can’t remember it step by step as it happened, but I do remember there were snakes. I’m not sure if it was one snake or a few of them. I can’t even remember what they look like. There was a snake that appeared from under the bed and began attacking the people in the room. I know there were a few people in the room, but can’t remember who they were. The snake ate something or someone, that part is not clear to me right now. Someone grabbed the snake and through it in the bathroom. Everyone was scared and panicking. We all got on the bed. I was last to climb on the bed and then somehow the door came undone. The stupid snake came out and tried to attack me. I got on the bed and I was screaming and everyone was trying to get the snake away from me. I was terrified and the damn snake was looking at me with this evilness in its eyes. It was about to bite me, I think, but I woke up. Once I was fully awake I thought about what this could mean. I couldn’t figure it out so I just prayed myself to sleep. I had to look up what this means. I read it and I still can’t figure it out (you can click the link below to read the description about dreaming with snakes). I guess I need to sit and put more thought into it. I truly believe that our dreams mean something and they are a warning to things we don’t think about in our waking lives or don’t really notice.


http://dreammoods.com/cgibin/dreamdictionarysearch.pl?method=exact&header=dreamsymbol&search=snakes

Love

"A wise girl kisses but doesn't love, listens but doesn't believe, and leaves before she is left."


— Marilyn Monroe



I can see the whole don’t kiss and tell and read between the lines…but do something before it’s done to you? hmmm..yes! It makes perfect sense. No, actually I love this quote because when you are in an
I-hate-men mode it’s empowering. However, once you realize that trying to play games the way men do doesn’t work you go right back to feeling lonely. For those of us who are over it and want to find real love it’s not like that. We take risks no matter how crazy your friends and family think you are for dating that amazing guy you met online (lol). When love is found it is great. Sorry Marilyn, but If the guy you’re all of a sudden madly in love with kisses you, well, you want to tell the world. Not only do you listen to every word he says, but all the things he doesn’t say. You feel his words and believe in a thing called love. You’d never leave if you found the real thing. I know Ja Rule says, “Pain is love”; but that’s not true. Real love doesn’t hurt. When you are truly in love you are supposed to feel happy. For some reason throughout the years, we women have forgotten that. If he cheats on you, abuses you in anyway, or doesn’t treat you the way you want to be treated wake up! I personally know that it takes time and it’s a process, but it can be done. If you need help, get a friend, read a book, or seek professional help. Ladies let’s never settle for a man who isn’t giving us what we need/want. The moment I decided that I was done with the bs coming from the ex is the moment I had my moment of clarity. Your life will be so much better, I promise. You may feel lonely, but so what?! The amazing feeling you experience later is definitely worth it, especially if you’ve found your dream man. Just a little something until the next update on the weight loss…

An inbetween...

So, I have about two more weeks before weigh in and things are looking OK.They could be better, so I am increasing the intensity levels. This means zero whites (only whole grain products), fast foods, sweets, and anything else that will create more fat. I have not succeeded in establishing a bed time. Maybe Memorial weekend had something to do with it, lol. I've also been going out almost every night for the past few weeks and that usually involves drinking. Alcohol is bad when you are trying to loose weight. All of the stuff we mix in there are usually high in sugar and whatever alcohol doesn't leave our system turns into sugar which then turns into fat. For more specific info on this check out this website: http://caloriecount.about.com/calories-alcoholic-drinks-ic1401.  On to the next topic, I've been doing better with the eating schedule. I am eating smaller meals more frequently and monitoring myself very well. I noticed that I am making better decisions when ordering food. For example, the other day there was nothing to eat at my house and I was late for a class I was accompanying my mother to and we stopped at Wendy's because it was something fast. Instead of having a chicken sandwich i got a grilled chicken BLT salad, only used some of the dressing, and didn't eat the croutons. Little things like that make a difference. Even though you didn't eat perfectly that day doesn't mean that the little changes don't count. You might have slipped up during lunch and had a cheese burger with fries and soda and that's not good but it's OK. That's when you keep in mind that for dinner you need to have as much lighter meal that both puts nutrients in your body as well as satisfy your hunger. For instance, on Sundays I sometimes like to have pancakes, eggs, and chocolate milk for breakfast. It's not a healthy choice but i make it so. I make the pancakes with whole wheat pancake mix, non fat milk, and use Smart Balance butter instead of oil. I scramble my eggs with onions, peppers, tomatoes, and spinach (Idon't add salt or cheese). I make the chocolate milk with 2% milk and regular Hershey's chocolate syrup. Could i have chosen a different meal, yes, but sometimes you feel like eating a certain thing. We are human and we will stray from the plan every now and then, but always remember to make better choices and that will lead you to the road to success. On that note, eating on the weekends is a bit of a problem for me. I don't have a set time to eat on the weekends like I do at work. So maybe I'll work on that.  I am still going to the gym aalmost everyday actually. I do at least 4-5 days a week, so I'm very proud of myself for that. I workout about an hour to an hour and a half. I increased my cardio time, added classes to keep me entertained, and do weights twice a week to help the process. I find that the classes are very helpful so long as you give it your all. Classes are very helpful because it's something different to spice up your routine, they're fun, and they provide a great workout. I usually do lots of cardio, minimum weights and belly dancing twice a week. Like I said it keeps me entertained. This week I am going to try Yoga, so let's see how that goes. I'm doing good with the sweets and fried foods, but Taco Bell just calls me late at night. I wanted to mention that just because I am working on this cook book project doesn't mean I splurge on those days. I always try my creations in moderation. I know that if I made a fatty dish (which I try not to) I only eat a little bit of it. I mostly cook for my family and friends never really just for me. I've been doing a lot of research so I have lots of information coming your way. Also, i wanted to talk about this blog a little bit. My main focus right now is the weight loss, but this is not a weight loss blog. It's called a little bit of ice because I am sharing a little bit about me. Now and then you will find different topics, but like I said at the moment weight loss is my main focus. If you see something on my blog and don't see it another don't panic I save it all, so just email me and I will send you a copy of whatever you meed. Well, til next time...

So, since I started I did good and bad all at the same time. I did good because I lost 3 lbs and 7 inches, which is amazing. I'm really proud of myself, but I know I could have done better. I know that I didn't put in as much effort as I could have. A lot of things play a role in weight loss. For one, my sleeping habits are off. I don't have a set time to got to bed, to wake up, to workout, to eat, etc. I feel as if I have no timing for anything. Our bodies are like a clock, believe it or not that's how the body works. Its important to get the right amount of sleep and to sleep well. I'm going to try to work on going to bed no later than 10:00 PM. I'm going to try something new to figure out a schedule that truly works for me. I'll post that as well. I should be able to do it because I don't have any shows that I watch (The Vampire Diaries is on break, lol), I can go to the gym early, and I'm on a budget so I'm not going out at night. Adults should get 7-9 hours of sleep. As we all know everything is good in moderation, so if you over sleep you will feel tiered. Let's talk about how there's a domino effect: if I don't sleep 8 hours, then I wake up later than I had planned. this means I have no time to workout in the morning, prep my lunch, or get ready the way that I want to. I get to work on time, but only because I wasted my gas driving to work and paid for parking instead of taking the metro rail for free. when I get to work I'm tiered and I feel very lazy. when I get out of work I'm so hungry I could eat a horse and I'm craving sugar big time, because I have no energy. After I stuff my face, I definitely don't feel like going to the gym. I get on the computer or watch TV and before you know realize its already 11:30pm. Again, I go to bed late and continue the vicious cycle. So, you see sleep is very important. I didn't accomplish my goal of going to the gym four times a week. I am raising the stakes and playing harder this time around. Another issue is the sweets. I have done a lot better than I usually do, but I still need to cut it down. I have decided to try to only eat sweets for special occasions. out of sight out of mind. if I don't see the sweets I wont think of them. I'm going to try to always make jell-o that way when I get a sweets craving I can just reach for some jell-o instead of cookies, cakes, etc. Let's see how that goes. Another issue I have is the need to eat meat and carbs. Since I'm not eating much rice I felt like I needed more carbs so I included whole grain or honey oat bread to some of my meals and it helps.I crave meat when I'm on my period, but i have noticed that i feel sick sometimes after eating meat. I am not going to cut it off, but I will try to limit myself to eat meat only one or two times a month.  I've been venturing into the smoothie world and I tried a few smoothies for breakfast and I loved them. I'll post some of the recipes on the site. I would say I'm doing ok with the food. I don't eat much rice, white bread, fried foods, etc. Since I'm working on a recipe book I am trying new things. Sometimes the recipes are not so healthy, but I am looking forward to looking for healthier choices. I decided that if I learned what each fruit helps me with I will be more inclined to eating it. So, I looked up a list of fruits and researched how they benefit us. I was happy about what I found and had the great idea of finding a recipe for each fruit. That's really what I'm working on now as far as my recipe book. I might post some of those recipes as well as the benefits of each fruit. Til next time...

The First Day (well, 2nd day actually)

Hello people!!! Well, this blog is not about a particular subject. It's just about whatever I think of that day. However, one of my main focuses will be my weight loss efforts. I'm trying to come up with a system that works for me. Since last year I've improved my eating habits a great deal, I've become more active, and I'm really trying hard. However, I don't always stick to the plan. You see consistency is my biggest problem. I have an application on my phone that lets me scan/search for food and it gives me all the nutritional facts and counts my calories for me. I just started using it on Monday so let's see how that goes. also, I've mapped out a workout schedule. On Mondays and Wednesdays I go to the gym with my step sister. We do about 35-45 minutes of cardio, upper body workouts, an ab machine (not that I have abs to workout yet lol), and then finish it off by going in the sauna for like 10 minutes. On Tuesdays I do a belly dancing class offered at my gym for about 45 minutes and then I do some little exercises at home. I usually take three days off from the gym, so depending on how the weekend looks I go another day. My main focus last month was to stop eating at fast food places, stop eating fried foods, and stop eating white rice and bread. I have been to Taco Bell like 3 times since, but I vow to choose subway, soups, veggies or salads when I eat out. As far as fried food I'm doing good on that. The rice is a little hard, because rice is cooked at my house every single day. I call that the cultural factor. Hispanic people eat a lot of rice lol. The bread I'm good on because I switched to whole wheat. A very difficult part is to lay low on the sweets. This is hard for me because I love sweet food. So my main focus for the remainder of the month is to work on that. I'm trying new alternatives. for example, I like ice cream a lot...my friend suggested I try "the skinny cow" instead of other brands. I tried it once and I really liked it. The ice cream didn't taste diety at all (I know that's not a word, lol). so that will be my goals for the next two weeks: 1. go to the gym 4 days a week, 2. lay low on sweets. I'm going to add a box on the side where I can list what I ate that day. This is really going to help me because I will be forced in a way to complete what I am starting. right now I am 23 years old, I'm 5 foot 3, and I weight 250lbs. I don't have any illnesses (high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.), and I don't want any either. I understand the importance of loosing weight. its not just to look good or get guys, but it to get in shape and feel good about myself. I love shopping, clothes, fashion, but I cant wear the things I want because it wont look good on me. I would love to go into a store and find many items that fit me. I want the only thing standing between me and those guess jeans to be the price lol. My grandfather has diabetes, my dad had hbp and honestly I am grateful that I don't have any of that and I would like to keep it that way. I also have an irregular period and if the doctors are right my weight loss will help it improve or make the problem go away completely. so, wish me luck and if you want take this journey with me...if you have any questions I'll try to be helpful and if have any tips or ideas from me I would appreciate it...


icey