Pyramid + Fitness = Optimum Health!

Interesting...

2008-05-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

Ok so this morning I weighed myself like I ALWAYS do...it's part of maintenance. So yesterday, I weighed 115.6 lbs. My normal weight give or take a few ounces.. This morning..121 lbs. Now that is still below my goal weight of 125 lbs. So its all good, but...where the heck did almost 6 lbs come from? One of life's great mysterys. I weighed myself about 1/2 hour ago. 117 lbs. Who knows?? I guess my point is I was all bent this morning about it...for a moment and then just gave it to God. Our bodies are strange and wonderous things aren't they?

Blessings,

Libby (aka Liz ;)

5-12-08 Food and Exercise Journal

2008-05-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

			Free Calorie Counter my-calorie-counter.com
			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Breakfast
1	serving 1/2 Cup	Swiss Oats with Soy Milk	176	5	1	0	25	30	6	10	7
1	small (6" to 6-7/8" long)	Bananas, raw	90	0	0	0	1	23	3	12	1
1	Serving - 240 ML	SILK - SOYMILK - ORGANIC VANILLA 1 QT CARTON	100	4	1	0	95	10	1	7	6
			366	9	2	0	121	63	10	29	14
Lunch
2	fruit	Clementines, raw	70	0	0	0	1	18	3	14	1
1	1 carton	Amy's Tofu Veggie Lasagna	310	11	2	0	680	41	6	6	13
			380	11	2	0	681	59	9	20	14
Dinner
0.5	tsp	Oil, olive, salad or cooking	20	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
1	cup cherry tomatoes	Tomatoes, red, ripe, raw, year round average	27	0	0	0	7	6	2	4	1
1	Serving - 85 G	DOLE FRESH VEGETABLES - SALAD BLENDS - TUSCANY FIELD GREENS 8 OZ BAG	20	0	0	0	15	4	2	2	1
2	tbsp	Vinegar, red wine	6	0	0	0	2	0	0	0	0
10	medium (3/4" to 1" dia)	Radishes, raw	7	0	0	0	18	2	1	1	0
2	tbsp	Hummus, commercial	46	3	0	0	106	4	2	0	2
1	Serving - 7 G	FRESH GOURMET - CROUTONS - PREMIUM ORGANIC SEASONED 4.5 OZ STAND UP BAG	30	2	0	0	70	4	0	0	1
			156	7	0	0	218	20	7	7	5
Snack
1	1 Bar	Powerbar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Flavor Harvest Whole Grain	240	5	1	0	140	42	5	18	10
1	1 oz - 16 chips	Sun Chips - Multigrain - Original	140	6	1	0	120	18	2	2	2
1	8 oz	Silk - Vanilla Plus Soy Milk with Fiber	100	4	1	0	95	14	5	7	6
			480	15	3	0	355	74	12	27	18
Water Tracker

Totals Target Balance			1382 1650 84 268	42 45 93 3	7 18 39 11	0 300 0 300	1375 2000 69 625	216 227 95 11	38 35 109 3	83 80 104 3	51 82.5 62 31.5

			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Activity
0.5	hour(s)	Elliptical Trainer Machine - Levels 15 and above - Vigorous Effort	-287
0.5	hour(s)	conditioning exercise - calisthenics (e.g. pushups, situps, pullups, jumping jacks), heavy, vigorous effort	-209
Totals			-496

Camp Carter 4-26-08

2008-05-07T18:47:00.001-07:00

The Camp Carter Nashville Experience-042608

5-7-08 Food and Exercise Journal

2008-05-07T06:08:00.000-07:00

			Free Nutrition Counter my-calorie-counter.com
			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Breakfast
1	small (6" to 6-7/8" long)	Bananas, raw	90	0	0	0	1	23	3	12	1
1	Serving - 240 ML	SILK - SOYMILK - ORGANIC VANILLA 1 QT CARTON	100	4	1	0	95	10	1	7	6
1	serving 1/2 Cup	Swiss Oats with Soy Milk	176	5	1	0	25	30	6	10	7
			366	9	2	0	121	63	10	29	14
Lunch
1	tbsp	Vinegar, red wine	3	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0
1	serving	Turkey breast meat	34	1	0	14	335	1	0	1	6
1	Serving - 7 G	FRESH GOURMET - CROUTONS - PREMIUM ORGANIC SEASONED 4.5 OZ STAND UP BAG	30	2	0	0	70	4	0	0	1
1	Serving - 85 G	DOLE FRESH VEGETABLES - SALAD BLENDS - TUSCANY FIELD GREENS 8 OZ BAG	20	0	0	0	15	4	2	2	1
1	Serving - 28 G	KRAFT NATURAL SHREDDED CHEESE - CHEESE - CHEDDAR MILD 2% MILK SHREDDED REDUCED FAT 8 OZ BAG	80	6	4	20	230	1	0	0	7
2	fruit	Clementines, raw	70	0	0	0	1	18	3	14	1
1	tsp	Oil, olive, salad or cooking	40	5	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
			277	14	5	34	652	28	5	17	16
Dinner
0.25	cup	Hummus, commercial	104	6	1	0	237	9	4	0	5
10	medium	Carrots, baby, raw	35	0	0	0	78	8	3	5	1
1	serving 1/2 cup	Black Bean and Corn Salsa - Homemade variety	167	6	0	0	275	22	5	3	7
			306	12	1	0	590	39	12	8	13
Snack
1	small (2-1/2" dia) (approx 4 per lb)	Apples, raw, with skin	55	0	0	0	1	15	3	11	0
1	1 package (2 bars)	*NATURE VALLEY Granola Bar (Oats & Honey)	180	6	0	0	160	29	2	11	4
1	8 oz	Silk - Vanilla Plus Soy Milk with Fiber	100	4	1	0	95	14	5	7	6
			335	10	1	0	256	58	10	29	10
Water Tracker

Totals Target Balance			1284 1650 78 366	45 45 100 0	9 18 50 9	34 300 11 266	1619 2000 81 381	188 227 83 39	37 35 106 2	83 80 104 3	53 82.5 64 29.5

			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Activity
0.75	hour(s)	conditioning exercise - calisthenics (e.g. pushups, situps, pullups, jumping jacks), heavy, vigorous effort	-314
0.25	hour(s)	conditioning exercise - weight lifting (free weight, nautilus or universal-type), power lifting or body building, vigorous effort (Taylor Code 210	-78
Totals			-392

Revised...5-6-08 Food Log

2008-05-06T12:58:00.003-07:00

			Free Calorie Chart my-calorie-counter.com
			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Breakfast
1	small (6" to 6-7/8" long)	Bananas, raw	90	0	0	0	1	23	3	12	1
1	Serving - 240 ML	SILK - SOYMILK - ORGANIC VANILLA 1 QT CARTON	100	4	1	0	95	10	1	7	6
2	serving 1/2 Cup	Swiss Oats with Soy Milk	352	10	2	0	50	60	12	20	14
			542	14	3	0	146	93	16	39	21
Lunch
1	1 box 8 rolls 260g	Hibachi-San Japanese Grill® - California Roll - box - 8 thick sushi rolls with cucumbers, avocado and crab meat	450	11	2	15	1580	75	6	25	12
			450	11	2	15	1580	75	6	25	12
Dinner
15	medium	Carrots, baby, raw	53	0	0	0	117	12	4	7	1
1	tbsp	Hummus, commercial	23	1	0	0	53	2	1	0	1
15	medium (3/4" to 1" dia)	Radishes, raw	11	0	0	0	26	2	1	1	0
			87	1	0	0	196	16	6	8	2
Snack
1	8 oz	Silk - Vanilla Plus Soy Milk with Fiber	100	4	1	0	95	14	5	7	6
1	1 Bar	Powerbar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Flavor Harvest Whole Grain	240	5	1	0	140	42	5	18	10
			340	9	2	0	235	56	10	25	16
Water Tracker

Totals Target Balance			1419 1650 86 231	35 45 78 10	7 18 39 11	15 300 5 285	2157 2000 108 157	240 227 106 13	38 35 109 3	97 80 121 17	51 82.5 62 31.5

			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Activity
0.25	hour(s)	conditioning exercise - calisthenics (e.g. pushups, situps, pullups, jumping jacks), heavy, vigorous effort	-105
1	hour(s)	running - running, 6.7 mph (9 min/mile)	-575
Totals			-680

Revised...5-6-08 Food Log

2008-05-06T12:58:00.001-07:00

			Free Calorie Chart my-calorie-counter.com
			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Breakfast
1	small (6" to 6-7/8" long)	Bananas, raw	90	0	0	0	1	23	3	12	1
1	Serving - 240 ML	SILK - SOYMILK - ORGANIC VANILLA 1 QT CARTON	100	4	1	0	95	10	1	7	6
2	serving 1/2 Cup	Swiss Oats with Soy Milk	352	10	2	0	50	60	12	20	14
			542	14	3	0	146	93	16	39	21
Lunch
1	1 box 8 rolls 260g	Hibachi-San Japanese Grill® - California Roll - box - 8 thick sushi rolls with cucumbers, avocado and crab meat	450	11	2	15	1580	75	6	25	12
			450	11	2	15	1580	75	6	25	12
Dinner
15	medium	Carrots, baby, raw	53	0	0	0	117	12	4	7	1
1	tbsp	Hummus, commercial	23	1	0	0	53	2	1	0	1
15	medium (3/4" to 1" dia)	Radishes, raw	11	0	0	0	26	2	1	1	0
			87	1	0	0	196	16	6	8	2
Snack
1	8 oz	Silk - Vanilla Plus Soy Milk with Fiber	100	4	1	0	95	14	5	7	6
1	1 Bar	Powerbar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Flavor Harvest Whole Grain	240	5	1	0	140	42	5	18	10
			340	9	2	0	235	56	10	25	16
Water Tracker

Totals Target Balance			1419 1650 86 231	35 45 78 10	7 18 39 11	15 300 5 285	2157 2000 108 157	240 227 106 13	38 35 109 3	97 80 121 17	51 82.5 62 31.5

			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Activity
0.25	hour(s)	conditioning exercise - calisthenics (e.g. pushups, situps, pullups, jumping jacks), heavy, vigorous effort	-105
1	hour(s)	running - running, 6.7 mph (9 min/mile)	-575
Totals			-680

5-6-08 Food & Exercise

2008-05-06T07:27:00.000-07:00

			Free Weight Tracker my-calorie-counter.com
			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Breakfast
1	small (6" to 6-7/8" long)	Bananas, raw	90	0	0	0	1	23	3	12	1
1	Serving - 240 ML	SILK - SOYMILK - ORGANIC VANILLA 1 QT CARTON	100	4	1	0	95	10	1	7	6
2	serving 1/2 Cup	Swiss Oats with Soy Milk	352	10	2	0	50	60	12	20	14
			542	14	3	0	146	93	16	39	21
Lunch
1	tsp	Oil, olive, salad or cooking	40	5	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
1	Serving - 28 G	KRAFT NATURAL SHREDDED CHEESE - CHEESE - CHEDDAR MILD 2% MILK SHREDDED REDUCED FAT 8 OZ BAG	80	6	4	20	230	1	0	0	7
0.33	Serving - 34 G	JENNIE-O TURKEY STORE - TURKEY FRANKS - W/NATURAL SMOKE FLAVORING 10 CT 12 OZ PACK	26	2	1	8	119	0	0	0	1
1	1 6-inch sub 236g	Subway® - 7 Under 6® Roasted Chicken Breast sandwich, 6-inch sub - boneless roasted chicken breast patty, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, green peppers, olives and pickles on Italian white bread	320	5	2	45	1000	47	5	7	23
1	Serving - 7 G	FRESH GOURMET - CROUTONS - PREMIUM ORGANIC SEASONED 4.5 OZ STAND UP BAG	30	2	0	0	70	4	0	0	1
2	fruit	Clementines, raw	70	0	0	0	1	18	3	14	1
1	Serving - 85 G	DOLE FRESH VEGETABLES - SALAD BLENDS - TUSCANY FIELD GREENS 8 OZ BAG	20	0	0	0	15	4	2	2	1
0.0000005	1	Subway 6 " Honey Oat Roast Beef Sub with American Cheese, Veggies and Red Wine Vinegar	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
			586	20	8	73	1435	74	10	23	34
Dinner
15	medium	Carrots, baby, raw	53	0	0	0	117	12	4	7	1
1	tbsp	Hummus, commercial	23	1	0	0	53	2	1	0	1
15	medium (3/4" to 1" dia)	Radishes, raw	11	0	0	0	26	2	1	1	0
			87	1	0	0	196	16	6	8	2
Snack
1	8 oz	Silk - Vanilla Plus Soy Milk with Fiber	100	4	1	0	95	14	5	7	6
1	1 Bar	Powerbar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Flavor Harvest Whole Grain	240	5	1	0	140	42	5	18	10
			340	9	2	0	235	56	10	25	16
Water Tracker

Totals Target Balance			1555 1650 94 95	44 45 98 1	13 18 72 5	73 300 24 227	2012 2000 101 12	239 227 105 12	42 35 120 7	95 80 119 15	73 82.5 88 9.5

			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Activity
0.25	hour(s)	conditioning exercise - calisthenics (e.g. pushups, situps, pullups, jumping jacks), heavy, vigorous effort	-105
1	hour(s)	running - running, 6.7 mph (9 min/mile)	-575
Totals			-680

My Food and Exercise 5-5-08

2008-05-05T06:14:00.000-07:00

			Free Calorie'>http://www.my-calorie-counter.com/">Calorie Counter my-calorie-counter.com
			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Breakfast
1	serving 1/2 Cup	Swiss Oats with Soy Milk	176	5	1	0	25	30	6	10	7
1	Serving - 240 ML	SILK - SOYMILK - ORGANIC VANILLA 1 QT CARTON	100	4	1	0	95	10	1	7	6
1	small (6" to 6-7/8" long)	Bananas, raw	90	0	0	0	1	23	3	12	1
			366	9	2	0	121	63	10	29	14
Lunch
1	1 oz - 16 chips	Sun Chips - Multigrain - Original	140	6	1	0	120	18	2	2	2
1	fruit 2-1/4" high x 2-1/2" dia	Pears, asian, raw	51	0	0	0	0	13	4	9	1
2	serving 1/2 cup	Black Bean and Corn Salsa - Homemade variety	334	12	0	0	550	44	10	6	14
			525	18	1	0	670	75	16	17	17
Dinner
5	medium	Carrots, baby, raw	18	0	0	0	39	4	1	2	0
1	1 serving	Morning Star Mushroom burger	110	6	1	0	220	8	0	1	7
2	slice	Bread, whole-wheat, commercially prepared, toasted	153	2	0	0	292	26	5	3	8
1	tbsp	Hummus, commercial	23	1	0	0	53	2	1	0	1
			304	9	1	0	604	40	7	6	16
Snack
1	small (2-1/2" dia) (approx 4 per lb)	Apples, raw, with skin	55	0	0	0	1	15	3	11	0
1	8 oz	Silk - Vanilla Plus Soy Milk with Fiber	100	4	1	0	95	14	5	7	6
1	1 bar 35g	Kashi Chewy Granola Bars Honey Almond Flax	140	5	1	0	100	21	4	6	5
			295	9	2	0	196	50	12	24	11
Water Tracker

Totals Target Balance			1490 1650 90 160	45 45 100 0	6 18 33 12	0 300 0 300	1591 2000 80 409	228 227 100 1	45 35 129 10	76 80 95 4	58 82.5 70 24.5

			Cal	Fat	Sat	Chl	Sod	Crb	Fib	Sug	Pro
Activity
0.5	hour(s)	conditioning exercise - calisthenics (e.g. pushups, situps, pullups, jumping jacks), heavy, vigorous effort	-209
0.5	hour(s)	Elliptical Trainer Machine - Levels 11-14 - Vigorous Effort	-261
Totals			-470

Oh wonderful blog...how I have ignored thee...

2008-03-27T06:41:00.000-07:00

Today I weighed in at 115.2 lbs. I have been in maintenance for 1 year! On October 10, 2008, I will celebrate my 3rd year of living a healthy life style. I have so much to be grateful for. A wonderful family, great friends, a Savior Who forgives all... and my health. Which is prime! :)

I made a new friend recently. He has been through the same battles I have and has done extremely well. Walt, I love you dude. You rock! :)

Scott, my wonderful husband. Thank you for being so strong for me and encouraging me and loving me unconditionally these past 11 years. :)

Blessings,

Libby...

Updates....

2007-12-01T06:27:00.000-08:00

As of yesterday morning when I stood on the scale I am 116 lbs. That means I have officially lost 100 lbs. My unofficial start weight was 216 lbs. I lost 12 lbs in 3 months without even trying when I switched jobs. Stress is a powerful thing! It can make you fat! Anyway... I am down a total of 100 lbs in 26 months time. Not too shabby. I am fitting into anything from a girls size 14 to a size 4 petites. However, 4's are starting to get baggy on me. I'm only 5' tall and even though I look thin, I have a TREMENDOUS amount of lean body mass or muscle. I recently had to start monitoring my calories again and increase them and what do you know, I lost another couple of lbs. I was at 118 and then I lost another lb at the beginning of November and on the last day of November I lost yet, ANOTHER pound. I'm not complaining, but I'm not necessarily trying to lose weight. I told myself a while ago that I didn't want to get any smaller than 115 lbs. I have now lost 9 lbs over my original goal weight of 125 lbs. Freaky... Never in my wildest imagination did I ever think I was going to be this lean. I used to dream of being smaller than my hubby, who through the majority of our 10 years of marriage was smaller than me. He's now about 10 lbs heavier than me. UNTHINKABLE!!! I have had a smaller waist than him since May of 06. That was kind of cool. Now my waist is 23 1/2 inches and his is still 29 inches. He's a lean man and always has been, but has managed to actually put on a few lbs of muscle since I started my lifestyle change.

Goals for the new year.... Well, I want to be a more organized person. I want to recycle more, be a better Christian (never can be a good enough Christian, always have to try harder), I want to run, yes, I said RUN a half and a full marathon by the end of 2008. I also want to become a certified personal trainer. It's quite a complicated process. But I'm up for it. In the long term, I also want to go back to school to some day be a registered dietitian. I will maintain a weight of between 115 and 125 for life. I know that now. I can maintain. I have for almost a year now. In 4 months it will be 1 year since I reached goal.

Thanks for reading, God bless!

Libby

118 lbs..

2007-10-29T06:26:00.001-07:00

Yep!! and October 10th was my 2 year "lifestyle change" anniversary!! YAY!!

God is good!

Libby

New Discovery....

2007-08-28T16:24:00.000-07:00

Went to a doctor about a month ago that I hadn't been to in over 2 years. I found out that when I was last there I weighed 216 lbs. So I officially lost 97 lbs to date because I now weigh 119 lbs!

YAY!!! Pretty cool.

120!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-07-28T05:11:00.000-07:00

Well my body wasn't finished losing and done lost ANOTHER lb! I'm 120 lbs as of this morning's weigh in. I really don't want to lose any more though. I want to stay RIGHT HERE! Ranging between 120 and 125. That would be best. I have a lot of muscle so, I look even thinner than I am. I could probably pass for 110 lbs as thin as I look. Never saw that coming!

Praise Jesus!

Libby

Hello Old Friend....

2007-07-23T22:04:00.000-07:00

Haven't been on in quite some time.

Current Weight: 121 lbs

Measurements:

Neck - 12

Chest - 34

Upper Arm - 9 1/2 unflexed 10 1/2 flexed

Waist - 24

Hips - 32

Thigh - 19

Body Fat 15%

I love maintenance. I love my healthy lifestyle. Notice I didn't say "new" healthy lifestyle. It's no longer new. It's pretty old actually. October 10 of this year will be 2 years since I changed my life. What a great life it has become.

I am so blessed. Thank you Lord.

God Bless,

Libby

it's been a while

2007-07-12T18:58:00.000-07:00

still doing well. Maintaining 121 lbs! :) It's been almost 4 months in maintenance. What a great feeling. Sure I enjoy treats and things every once in a while. Do I live on these foods? NO. I am on vacation right now and am doing ok. Not sticking to my eating 100%. Eating all my fruits and veggies and whole grain, but I have been eating a small piece of cake a day and also enjoyed veggie pizza yesterday and not so veggie pizza tonight. What are you going to do, it's done. Tomorrow is a new day and I am going swimming! :)

Be Blessed,

Libby

Wow...

2007-06-08T21:40:00.000-07:00

It's been over a month since I've posted. Well I've walked 1/2 marathons 3 times in the past month and have maintained a weight between 122 and 124. Mainly I gain a pound or two because of humidity. But I'm still keeping on. Wasn't too diligent with the cardio this week, well except for walking, jumping jacks and push-ups. I also did weight training 2 times this week instead of my usual 3. Was in a bit of a funk this week. I think it's mainly because I am turning 35 tomorrow. For some reason it's getting to me a little. Oh well. Age is truly just a number. At 35 I am in the best shape ever. I'm healthy. Thank you Jesus!

God Bless,

Libby

Measurements and Body Fat Update

2007-05-01T14:46:00.000-07:00

Took my measurements this morning:

Chest 34
Waist 24
Hips 32

Body Fat is now 15%

God Bless!

Libby

123 lbs...

2007-04-26T08:39:00.000-07:00

Lost another pound! Who knew! :)

Sodium + Fiber without enough water =

2007-04-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

Excess bloating and constipation.... :(

For 35 - 50 grams of fiber a day and 2500 MG (or less) of sodium a day, I need to be doubling my water in take. I've gained some water weight. I know it's only temporary, so I will not fret, I just wanted to document this new learning experience. I will drink 16 - 20 oz with each meal as well as my 10 8 oz glasses a day along with 32 oz with my work out. Fiber is our friend, but can become cranky if we don't give it enough water to push it along.

Now that that's been said, have a wonderfully "regular" day!

God bless,

Libby

124!!!

2007-04-05T17:34:00.000-07:00

Yes...I'm 124 lbs. I've lost an additional pound. I might see what happens and just go with it. What's the harm? I don't want to me any smaller than 120 lbs. I'm also 18% body fat!!!!! YES!!! That's the best part of it to me. I love being so lean. I love having muscles.

Most of all I love having optimum health and NEVER having to DIET again!!!

Love you Jesus! Thank you for dying for me all those years ago. Praise the Lord, you rose again to save us from sin. Praise God, Praise God, I'm a child of the King!

God Bless,

Libby

GOAL!!!!

2007-03-27T02:28:00.000-07:00

I have reached my goal! I am officially 125 lbs. HAPPY HAPPY JOY JOY!!! Thank you Lord for giving me the tools, wisdom and faith to keep going.

Don't give up!

God Bless,

Libby

126!!!!

2007-03-18T04:51:00.000-07:00

I was 126.0 this morning.... 1 MORE lb TO GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yeah! :)

God bless! This is the day the Lord hath made. I shall rejoice and be glad in it!!!!

Libby

Still have 2 lbs left to go

2007-03-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

It's been over a month and no weight loss, but no weight gain either. I knew the last few would be a struggle, so, no worries. My measurements went down a little. I now have a 25 inch waist and 19 inch thighs. :) That's 2 1/2 inches lost in the last month. :)

Be strong and keep on going, no matter what!

God bless,

Libby

Measurements

2007-02-18T06:44:00.000-08:00

October 10, 2005 Starting Measurements were 44, 39, 49

Today my Measurements are 34, 25.5, 33

(Insert Happy Dance Here)

God Bless,

Libby

127!! 2 lbs to go!

2007-02-08T02:52:00.000-08:00

I have 2 lbs to go till I reach my goal of 125. It's been a CRAZY ride. I'm ready to get off and maintain! :)

God Bless,

Libby

I met my hero!

2007-02-04T14:17:00.000-08:00

Yesterday at a health expo in Novi, Michigan, I met Zonya Foco. She's an RD, Author and host of her own show on PBS called Zonya's Health Bites. Wonderful lady. She was nice enough to take the time to take a picture with me, give me an autographed copy of her cookbook and then if that wasn't enough, she shared her own platform with me and asked me to share my story with her audience. WOW. It was awesome.

Thank you Zonya! You're the best.

God Bless! Follow your dreams,

Libby

Body Fat

2007-01-28T05:06:00.000-08:00

As of yesterday my hips went down another inch and I'm at 20% body fat. That means 80% of me is LEAN muscle mass, well and organs, water, blood and guts. But ONLY 20% of me is fat!!! :) When I started I was over 50% fat. Half of me was fat.

Be fit.

God Bless,

Libby

Size 4

2007-01-27T08:23:00.000-08:00

As of about 2 weeks ago, I am a size 4!

129

2007-01-06T08:04:00.000-08:00

I'm in my 120's finally!!! Wow...only 4 more lbs to go.

5 more lbs to go!

2007-01-04T17:06:00.000-08:00

130 as of this morning. YAY!!!

God Bless,

Libby

Latest B&A

2006-12-29T15:25:00.000-08:00

Before 200 + Pounds June 2005 Size 20

Current 131 lbs December 2006
Size 5

Body Fat....

2006-12-23T11:26:00.000-08:00

23% My starting was 52%. YAY!!!

Merry Christmas

2006-12-23T11:22:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy HEALTHY New Year!!

My elliptical broke about 2 weeks ago, but my mommy got me a new one for Christmas. So I'm back in the game. It's literally the best piece of cardio equipment I've ever used. I'm going to be very careful in my portion sizes Christmas Eve and Day, but I'm not going to deny myself anything. I never do... I finally get it.

God bless!

Libby

BMI - NORMAL!!!!

2006-12-12T17:43:00.000-08:00

I am 131 lbs and have a NORMAL BMI for the first time in about 12 years. 24.7 Wow....

God bless you and your health,

Libby

133

2006-12-09T21:03:00.000-08:00

I am 133 as of the beginning of this week. Just got so busy forgot to post. YAY!!! Also, I am now a size 5 in levi jeans! YIPPEE!!!

Loving it all!

God Bless,

Libby

134

2006-12-03T12:47:00.000-08:00

9 lbs to go!!!

It's almost Christmas and I find myself wanting a cookie or something sweet from time to time. I'm not going to go ballistic on myself and deny, because I know that I'm control and can have a cookie, perhaps even daily if I want. But for the most part, I feel that I will abstain and focus on enjoying those things, in moderation, on Christmas eve and Christmas day. :) I have a few parties and other things coming up, but I know I'll hold my ground. No worries.

Have a very Merry Blessed Christmas. And Healthy New Year!

Jesus is the reason for the season. He was born to die. To save us. Amen

God Bless,

Libby

Thanksgiving...

2006-11-23T08:30:00.000-08:00

Today is Thanksgiving 2006. On Thanksgiving 2005, I was the same Liz that I am today. My weight does not define me.

First and foremost above anything, I am most grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ and my Salvation. Without those things I am nothing...

Second of all, I am grateful for my husband, Scott. He is my rock, my inspiration, my best friend, my lover, my confidant, he is my everything of this world.

Thirdly, I am grateful for my children. Alex and Austin. They are amazing blessings that I hope I NEVER take for granted.

And finally, I am grateful for my family and friends. They are amazing and have been a wonderful support to me over the last year that I have changed my life. Not ME, but my life.

Have a blessed, wonderful and healthy Thanksgiving.

Love,

Liz

God bless you all.

Almost forgot

2006-11-20T19:47:00.000-08:00

135 BABY!!!!! 10 MORE POUNDS TO GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YEAH!!!!

Cool

2006-11-20T19:45:00.000-08:00

I was the featured caller today on Bob Greene's XM Radio show on Oprah & Friends. He's a really great guy who GENUINELY cares. It was so much fun.

Good times!

God Bless,

Libby

I created a Slide Show! Check it out!

2006-11-18T07:42:00.000-08:00

As of the beginning of the week....

2006-11-18T07:25:00.000-08:00

I am 136! 11 more lbs to go!!!

137...yep....137!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-11-07T16:51:00.000-08:00

67 DOWN.......12 TO GO!!!!!!!

God Bless,

Libby

138

2006-11-05T05:34:00.000-08:00

13 more lbs to go! :) YAY!!!!

God Bless,

Libby

139

2006-10-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

I am under 140! YEAH!!! 14 more pounds to go until I reach my goal. Then maintenance baby!!!

Live well, eat well and move well!

God bless,

Libby

140!!! :)

2006-10-18T12:09:00.000-07:00

I am 140 lbs as of today! 15 more lbs to go!!!

A year ago today....

2006-10-10T18:53:00.000-07:00

, I set off on a journey to get healthier and lose weight. Wasn’t sure at first how I was going to accomplish that. I had been on so many diets before and failed at each one. I needed to incorporate good habits into my life that could last a life time. I am here to say that one year later I have lost 63 lbs and over 42 inches. I went from a size 20 to a size 6 and my BMI was 40.5 and now it’s 27.5. (3 points from normal) I changed my life. I follow the USDA food pyramid and eat healthy whole foods as much as possible and avoid artificial ingredients, hydrogenated fats and especially high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). There were few things I have cut completely out of my diet. The main thing was soda. I used to drink a 2 liter a day or more. Empty, nutritionally bankrupt, full of HFCS and not a whole lot more. I started out with a few tools and then gained more and more knowledge and my healthy eating progressed. My family is eating healthier now too.

I started working out on December 29. I worked out at a gym at first for 5 solid months 3 – 4 days a week. I bought several pieces of equipment and by May had my own gym. I work out exclusively on my own at home. Strength training and cardio, an equal balance of the two is important. They are both fundamental in losing weight for the long haul and creating lean muscle.

More than the weight loss is the way I feel. I feel fabulous. I look better. I am in the best shape and health of my entire life at 34. My journey is far from over. I still have 16 lbs left to lose and then I have maintenance to learn. I accept the challenge with zeal. J

I owe a lot of my success to my support systems. First and foremost my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for without Him, I would not have come this far. When God is your personal trainer, you can’t wrong. Secondly, but a close second, is my dear husband. He gave me so much inspiration, time, support and praise. With God’s grace, if His will allows, I plan on spending my golden years with my hubby. And someday beating him at push-ups! My two son’s. I want to be a part of their lives as much and as long as possible. I want to be there at graduations, weddings and grandbabies. And it had better be in that order! J My friends, they are truly the best. My family, they flood me with compliments that help me and keep me going. My co-workers who, although they have only known me a short time have given me so much praise, kudos and support, they have no idea how effective they have been. Last, but certainly not least, 3fatchicks.com. The advice, story sharing, laughs, tears, recipes, diet tips, exercise tips, etc… have been priceless to me. I cannot begin to thank those 3 sisters (Suzanne, Jennifer and Amy) enough for developing this online community of wonderful women (and men too). Meg, Mel, Ellis, Ilene, just to name a handful, are some of the most patient, wonderful women. They give excellent advice and keep the reader in perspective at the same time. They use life experience to help others. That’s wonderful. Thank you all! Thank you all! Without each and everyone of you who has helped me through this journey, I know I would not be as successful.

I feel like I am in control for the first time in my life. I have conquered unhealthy eating, overeating, sedentary lifestyle, being at risk for type 2 diabetes, being at risk for heart disease, obesity, depression, self-hate and more. I am not finished by any stretch of the imagination. I have so many other things in my life I want to improve. This process has helped me develop the self-awareness and discipline to know that I can accomplish anything.

Me at 200 lbs November 2005

This is me today at 141 lbs.
16 more to go!

UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE!!!

I grew an INCH!!!! I am now 5' 1" I am so happy!

My progress slide show. More to come later.

2006-10-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

141!

2006-10-08T13:50:00.000-07:00

Weighed myself this morning and I'm 141. Yippee!!!! 16 more pounds to go.

142 BABY!!!!

2006-09-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

I'm 142 lbs as two days ago. I have 17 lbs to go. 17, WOW!!!! Under 20. Now the fun begins. I'm expecting plateaus. But I'm ready for anything. Especially maintanence!!!!!!

Bring it!

God Bless,

Libby

Hmmmm

2006-09-24T06:20:00.000-07:00

I am 144!!! My BMI is 28.2!!!! Haven't worked out at all in the last week. Just push-ups crunches and a little bit on the resistence bands. I have been doing massive amounts of cleaning. My eating hasn't fluxuated any so.... Next week: BACK TO BASICS!!!!

This is the day the Lord hath made, I shall rejoice and be glad in it!

Another thing....

2006-09-16T07:18:00.000-07:00

I keep forgetting to mention that I have been keeping track of my body fat percentages and it is as follows:

Body Fat Percentage 10/10/2005 45.94%
Body Fat Percentage 1/2/2006 44%
Body Fat Percentage 2-19-06 35.70%
Body Fat Percentage 3-6-06 33.86%
Body Fat Percentage 4-22-06 30.10%
Body Fat Percentage 7-8-06 29.33%
Body Fat Percentage 9-16-06 27.98% - Still overfat but a far cry from where I came from.

Total Body Fat Lost to date: 17.96%

My Body Fat Percentage Goal: 15%

I've lost almost 20 % of my original body fat. I'm so happy.

Also Forgot to Add

2006-09-16T07:05:00.000-07:00

Went to see my GP last week and he said that my HDL is still too low, so he has me on Niacin now. We'll see. All other levels were great and he is very happy with my progress. I have lost over 40 inches and 60 lbs since October 10, 2005. He's very happy for me.

2006-09-16T06:34:00.000-07:00

This is me as of mid August 2006. I was 150 lbs in this pic and I have now gone down another 5 lbs to 145 as of yesterday.

Wow....I'm in a size 6....

Feels so good to trust in Jesus. He's my personal trainer you know!

Feel great! ~Libby

Size

2006-09-05T19:30:00.000-07:00

6! As of last Thursday. A little tight, but I can get them over my hips, zip and button them and squat and sit in them. And BREATH!!!! :)

I am 146 lbs. But I'm still working out, eating well. Of course I am. It's my life, not just a passing fad diet. Not a hopeless promise. Not a "quick fix". I've done away with those.

I am living not eating myself to death. Not refusing to move at the end or beginning of the day. I am LIVING! Praise the Lord.

Loving it!

Libby

3 more lbs down!

2006-08-17T04:02:00.000-07:00

I, as of this morning, weigh 147! :) I am already 3 lbs closer to my DECEMBER goal. Of course I think I should have made it an October goal, but, if my expectations are not that high, I usually don't get disappointed.

I have added 2 boot camp sessions. 1 in each of my disciplines. I burned 800 calories in my cardio boot camp yesterday. And at least 400 in my strength training boot camp the day before. I will have things be status quo on the other work out days. But I don't want to plateau now that I have 22 lbs left! I can't believe that I'm actually typing 22 lbs left!!!!

God bless you!

Libby

Drum Roll Please...

2006-08-02T18:12:00.000-07:00

As of this morning's weigh-in I am 150 lbs. I have met my October 10th goal 2 months early. 25 more lbs to go until I make goal.

HOORAY!!!!

Thank you Lord!

Libby

BMI

2006-07-18T18:34:00.000-07:00

My BMI for the first time in years went from "obese" to "over weight". Believe it or not, that is a GOOD THING! :) I have been waiting for months to achieve this milestone and I finally have done it. My BMI is 29.9!!!!! Anything 30.0 and higher is considered obese. Now I just need to lose 25 more lbs and I'll be "normal". :) Then after that it's 3 more lbs till goal.

WHOO HOOO~~~~~~

Loving my new lifestyle!

God bless,

Libby

Great news!!!

2006-07-06T16:37:00.000-07:00

I am officially in a SIZE 8!!!!

I am so excited. I have worked hard and intend on keeping it up. I've changed my life. I've changed my eating habits, portion sizes, the quality of the foods I'm putting into my body. Sure I still have not so healthy things, but rarely and in moderation. I am on top of the world. Truly. I am currently at 154 lbs and have lost 50 lbs and have 29 more to go.

HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY!!!!

God Bless!!!

Libby

Road Trip

2006-06-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

I took my first road trip since I changed my life and you know what??? I did pretty good. I ate really healthy. I did allow myself some steak fries at dinner Friday night, but I ate 1/3 of the serving they provided and only half of my lean roast beef on kaiser roll. I also had some steamed veggies. I did allow myself a few discretionary items, like about a cup of real honest to goodness pop corn. That was SO MUCH FUN!!!! Other than that.. nothing too shocking or out of the norm. I even found the time to work out ( with resistance tubing and 5 lb dumbells) and take a walk. Plus, we visited the oldest stationary carosel in the world. Very cool and walked around that park for at least an hour. It was very nice. I had about 6 oz of minute maid lemonade. Don't usually drink that. It was good. Not going to kill myself to get another glass any time soon, but it was a nice treat.

I worked out this morning for 1 1/2 hours. It felt good to SWEAT LIKE A PIG again!!!

SWEAT SWEAT SWEAT!!!

God Bless,

Libby

New Weigh In

2006-06-10T22:27:00.000-07:00

I Weighed in on Wednesday and have lost 4 more pounds. I have lost 47 lbs to date and have 32 left to go. I feel fabulous. I wear a size 9/10. When I started I wore a size 20.

This is me June 2006

BEFORE PIC ON LEFT.
I AM LAST PERSON ON RIGHT
November 2005

Working out again

2006-05-18T18:28:00.000-07:00

Started working out on Monday for the first time in 2 weeks. Didn't work out again until today. Had a minor set-back with the stomach flu, but made it to work 3 out of 5 days this week so far! :)

I love my new life style. I love the freedom I now have. How much control I have gained in my life. I finally know how I am supposed to feel and what I am supposed to look like. I am changing every day. I still have a ways to go, but I am doing it step by step, day by day.

Can't wait until I can strength train again. I really need to be careful not to herniate myself or rupture my incision.

Hubby is so sweet and loving about my body changes and my dedication. I really think he's reaping the benefits of my new lifestyle. I never have to diet again. I never have to try a new fad or deny myself anything. Most of all, I have GREAT health and will continue to only get better.

Good health, love and wellness to you all!

God Bless,

Libby

Sounding off about a few things.

2006-05-11T15:29:00.000-07:00

First of all American Idol was a complete travesty last night. That is all I'm going to say about that.

Second of all. Rosie O'Donnell, who I used to like, has recently been accused of saying some very hurtful things about Star Jones-Reynolds. First off, she apparently is giving her an extremely hard time about her weight-loss and the origination there-in. First of all, if it is true, how petty, how covetious and how plain mean of Rosie. Star, however she lost the weight, has trasformed her life. I am not at all a huge fan of Gastric-Bypass, Lapband or any kind of cosmetic procedure to lose weight. I have recently found what it takes for me personally to lose weight. I thank the Lord that I am not having to go to such extremes. But, if Star did, her business. She's making it work for herself, she's keeping the course and still losing. I hope and pray her health is what it should be, but other than that, I don't want to be critical.

Also, there is a really horrible rumor going around the Internet that Rosie has gotten Star fired from The View. I find it very hard to believe. But if it is true, how unbelievably selfish of Ms. O'Donnell. I will no longer watch that program if that is the case.

Just had to speak my piece. Thank you.

161!!!!

2006-05-10T06:22:00.000-07:00

I am down to 161 as of yesterday morning. I had my hubby hide the scale until June 27th. That is 3 weeks from the time I can strength train again. I will be able to work out as of Monday.

Loving being "littl'er"

God Bless,

Libby

Swelling went down

2006-05-07T05:53:00.000-07:00

And I realized that I have lost another 3 lbs. I'm sure that is how much the fibriod weighed. Nice. So I now weigh 163 lbs. I have lost 41 lbs and have 38 to go! YIPPEE!!!!! Over the halfway slump.

When I started this 7 months ago, I wasn't sure if it would be a permanent thing. I'm still not sure, but I have a lot more confidence in myself to eat better and move. Not moving too much these days since I'm recovering from surgery. But I'm walking every day. Getting stronger every day. I have a week until I can work out again and 5 weeks until I can strength train again. Hopefully, I'll be back to work in a week. That would be nice. We'll see what Doc says.

Loving life through thick and thin!

God bless,

Libby

Had my surgery and I'm home!

2006-05-03T19:31:00.000-07:00

Everything went well. The Lord is good. I am on the road to recovery. Even went for a brief walk today.

Live well and the rest will follow...

Libby

Weigh in 4/30/06

2006-04-30T06:38:00.000-07:00

I am down another 2 lbs. 38 lbs lost so far and 41 to go!!!!

Oh Oh Oh!!! Almost forgot my weigh in and measure up!

2006-04-19T20:52:00.000-07:00

Almost forgot... Went to see my GP yesterday and my cholesterol went down 16 points! My HDL on the other hand is still too low. I am increasing my omega 3's a bit more. We'll see in 4 months if I improve.

My weight is currently 168 and I have lost a total of 31.5 inches. WHOO HOO!

Less than 2 weeks until surgery.

2006-04-19T20:47:00.000-07:00

I am having a large fibriod removed from my uterus. It will be a minor set-back for me exercise-wise. I will be unable to exercise for 2 weeks after surgery and I won't be able to weight lift for 6 weeks after. I will be fine though. I will just get right back on the horse after the 6 weeks are up.

My home gym....

I am geeked! I have almost my entire home gym in place. I have my Weider Platinum 600, my elliptical, my body by jake hip and thigh machine and my recumbent bike. I also have other accessories and a stability ball. I am still waiting for my treadmill to arrive! Can't wait. It will be treadmill, recumbent and elliptical while I'm waiting to use weights. I am not supposed to do any kind of resistance. :( Oh well.

God will see me through this. I put this in His loving hands.

Glory to God in the highest!

Libby

Measuring up 3/25 & Weighing in 3/27

2006-03-29T16:38:00.001-08:00

Lost 3 more inches...gained 4 lbs....hmmm... As of this morning I was down a couple of lbs so I think it's water. At least I hope. Not the result I was looking for but I'm not complaining. 172 is a whole lot better than 204!

Amen!

Libby

Measuring up 3/25 & Weighing in 3/27

2006-03-29T16:38:00.000-08:00

Concerned....

2006-03-14T07:01:00.000-08:00

I am having surgery on May 1st. This is limit me from working out at all 2 weeks post surgery and then no strength training or abdominal work 6 weeks post surgery. I just don't want to lose too much muscle. I also don't want to lose my drive. I really love being in shape and keeping my body fit. I crave exercise now. I am happy before, after and during exercise. It gives me mental clarity and focus. The Lord is responsible for the majority of that. He has given me the hope and inner peace to know that with Him in my life, all things are possible. I really need to reach out to my Jesus right now and pray for guidance and strength during my down time. I know I can bounce back, but what price am I going to have to pay for stopping? I hope I don't gain more than 5 lbs and gain more than a few inches. I am going to reduce my calories to 1300 a day while I'm down and unable to work out. I won't need all the extra calories I usually consume, while active. That should help keep some stability.

Keep focused,

Libby

Measuring up 3-11-06

2006-03-11T08:05:00.000-08:00

Lost another 4 inches! That is 27.5 inches lost since January 2nd.

AMEN!!! Praise the Lord!

Shrinking is fun...

Libby

Weigh-in Day 3-6-06

2006-03-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

Lost 6 more lbs! Down to 170 from 204! WHOO HOO!!!

Livin lean!

God Bless,

Libby

Fell last week

2006-03-04T12:24:00.000-08:00

Had to skip working out last Thursday. The first time ever. I fell on some ice and smacked my head on a cement step and landed straight on my butt. OUCH!!!

But I worked out again today and felt great, but still sore. I weight in on Monday and am not too optimistic. I think I might have either gained a couple of pounds or lost nothing. I won't let it discourage me. I am going to keep this up.

Goals:

By April 15th - 170 lbs

By October 10th - 150 lbs

By June 9th (2007) - 125 lbs (my goal weight).

As of my last weigh in I weigh 177 lbs.

God bless you and keep up your goals.

Libby

Measuring up 2/25/06

2006-02-25T12:55:00.000-08:00

Lost another 4 1/2 more inches!!!!

Next weigh-in day, March 6th.

Doing great

2006-02-19T18:48:00.000-08:00

It has been over 4 months since I changed my life for the better. I am so happy all the time. I feel fantastic. I have more strength and energy than ever before. I feel like I should be turning 21 in June instead of 34!

Went to the Whole Foods store today. What a FABULOUS place. The nicest people on the planet work there. So helpful and the variety was impressive to say the least. Got some granola, salmon and very yummy cheese. I am so happy. Lunch is going to be a great time this coming week.

God is good.

Feel your best,

Libby

Weigh-in Day

2006-02-14T03:30:00.000-08:00

27 LBS GONE since October 10th. I lost 6 lbs in 3 weeks.

Yippee!

Praise the Lord!

Love,

Libby

Measuring up 2/11/06

2006-02-11T06:22:00.000-08:00

I lost 8 3/4 more inches this past 2 weeks. That is a total of 20 1/4 inches lost since January 2nd. Boy did today's work out feel great.

Be blessed,

Libby

5 days till weigh in day!

2006-02-09T19:14:00.000-08:00

Valentine's day is my weigh in day. It will be 3 weeks since my last weigh in. And this Saturday, it's measurement day again. I am excited and scared at the same time. If I didn't lose anything, it certainly wasn't for lack of trying. I have worked out diligently for these past 3 weeks. My calories and daily requirements have been right on point. I am fitting into more clothes than previously. I am happy and very pleased with my progress. I couldn't have done any of it without my support system. First of all being my Savior Jesus Christ. Prayer and trusting in Him has brought me the farthest. Secondly, would have to be my husband. He's been amazing during all of this. He's wonderful. Next would have to be all of my friends on 3FC. Then my friends at work. Their compliments and encouragement have brought me far. I guess I should probably give some credit to myself. Never once have I not wanted to work out, it's been almost a month and a half. Never once have I wanted to slack. Working out has truly become part of my routine. Eating right and taking better care of myself has also been easier too. I really don't ever want to "pig out" like I used to. I don't want to eat a half gallon of ice cream, like I used to. I don't want to put away an entire pizza myself anymore. I know how much is enough and how much is too much. I know what is best and what is good. I still want certain things and I eat them. It doesn't take much to satisfy. I know when to stop now. That's the difference. 21 lbs are history. 58 to go..

See you on the other side.

God Bless and take care of yourself.

Libby

Measuring up...two weeks later...

2006-01-28T12:05:00.000-08:00

I took my measurements again after 2 weeks and discovered that I have lost 9 and a half inches! The most inches came off of my legs. 2 and 1/2 per leg! WOW. Lost an inch in each arm, 2 inches in my hips and a half an inch in my waist. No change in my neck.

I am just reeling right now! Just got back from working out and I had a great one.

Feel fit, eat well and love life!

God Bless,

Libby

20 LBS GONE!!!

2006-01-23T08:27:00.000-08:00

YEAH!!!!

God Bless,

Libby

Measuring up!

2006-01-14T12:32:00.000-08:00

I took some measurements on January 2nd and some today and here are my stats:

** = measurements not taken

Date 1/2/2006

Neck in Inches 14

Leg in Inches **

Arm in Inches **

Hips in Inches 43

Waist in Inches 38

Weight in Pounds 185

Date: 1/14/2006

Neck in Inches 13.5

Leg in Inches 26

Arm in Inches 14

Hips in Inches 43

Waist in Inches 36.5

Overall Inches lost for period 2

Weight in Pounds: I'll let you know in another week.

Next measurements will be taken two weeks from today.

My little guy enjoying some chocolate cake!!

19 lbs slimmer.... :)

2006-01-11T16:09:00.000-08:00

Just updating that I now weigh 185 and I have been working out for 2 weeks. I bought an elliptical and I love it! I also have been eating fabulously and keep track of it all daily. I am hiding the scale for another week and a half and then weighing myself again. I have become addicted to weighing myself. VERY BAD. VERY DISCOURAGING. MIND GAMING!!! So a week from Monday I find out my progress for the past 2 weeks. I gained 3 pounds around Christmas between sodium and fat and it only took me a week to lost the 3 extra pounds, but the lb of fat I lost from progress took me a month. But I relish in that pound. BELIEVE ME!

Loving life and the way I feel.

Christmas eve and day..

2005-12-26T06:09:00.000-08:00

uhhh...well according to my scale this morning I have gained almost 4 lbs. I have had a great couple of days, but I have gone over my in my calories by 300 a day for the last 3 days. Well, gulp, I am back on track and ready to start a new. I started out this morning with my usual oatmeal. Yesterday for break fast I had a cup of cocoa with marshmallows and a piece of cheese. The day before I had a cup of general tso chicken and some fried rice...FOR BREAKFAST!!! Plus the last couple of days I had fried oysters YUM...and chocolate. Not dark chocolate like I usually allow myself, but the real deal and in truffle form and cake and you name it. Well, it was Christmas and Christmas eve and the day before Christmas eve with my co-workers, so I splurged. But I am not daunted by my gain...1200 calories in 3 day over what I am used to...yikes!...I will overcome this with God grace. He will guide me through the rest of this year and beyond. All gift cookies and truffles and chocolate that I received this Christmas (TONS) will be donated to my work on Wednesday. I'm done with all of it...

I feel better today, to be back on track. I am even going to beg my husband to watch my son for a little while today, while I go work out. I haven't been there in YEARS. But I have a lifetime membership and keep paying my dues month after stinking month. So, I'm going back.

New beginnings are exciting!

God Bless,

Libby

I'm still standing...thinner than I once was...

2005-12-17T09:54:00.000-08:00

I am down 17 lbs and still eating to live. Enjoying food to the fullest, not fattest. Following my food pyramid and journaling my food....ALL OF IT!

I feel great and look better. The weight is coming off slower, but it's been 2 months, so that is to be expected. Like I said, I don't care how long this takes, because I want to do this for life.

One thing that I did learn recently was that I am actually 2 inches shorter. So I have a new goal weight. I want to have a "normal weight". Not overweight and CERTAINLY NOT OBESE.

I have inspired those I work with to do the same healthy things for themselves. We are going to do a 5 lb challenge. Who ever loses 5 lbs first wins a prize. We're not sure which one yet.

Fun!

Good eats to you.

God Bless,

Libby

Got a great report back from my doc....

2005-12-10T18:53:00.000-08:00

My cholesterol was 156! WHOO HOOO. My blood sugar was normal. my good cholesterol was about 10 points too low. Which means I need to do exercise. But I am down 16 lbs and holding strong. I am doing well, eating the best I think I've ever eaten. Still weighing myself on a daily basis. Not the best idea. But I am always too curious.

Finally decorated my house for Christmas today. The tree is so beautiful. I really do love this time of the year. My son was so excited about the tree. He loves the lights and the candy canes.

May your days be merry and bright.

God Bless,

Libby

Some new goals....

2005-12-03T04:45:00.000-08:00

1. Weigh myself ONLY 1 time per week. (preferably Monday)
2. Do some kind of exercise at least 3 times per week, even if only for 10 mins.
3. Use the USDA website to monitor my cholesterol intake and keep it at the recommended guidelines.
4. Praise myself more.
5. Be healthier, but not obsessive about it and don't badger others who aren't doing the same thing you are. And don't think poorly of them either. You were once there too.
6. Pray more about this and other things in your life and others.
7. Journal all my food on this website: http://www.mypyramidtracker.gov/login.aspx

breathe....

God Bless,

Libby

15 POUNDS..................................GONE!!!!!

2005-12-01T21:22:00.000-08:00

Wow... The scale was my best friend this morning. I officially weight 189.4 lbs as of this morning. I AM SO HAPPY!!! I feel great and I am starting to look different. I was able to fit into a pair of pants that I haven't been able to in a while. But, alas, it's not about looks, it's about health. Looks are completely secondary. And if it takes me another year or more to lose the remaining 57 lbs so be it! I know that people lose weight at different paces and I'm not going to be discouraged.

What I do know that I need is an exercise plan. I know how to eat now. Not worried at all about that. I just need to learn how to effectively move for my health too! The two go hand in hand, eating well and exercising. I just need to get the nerve up to get the exercise in.

Gulp...

Sigh......HAPPY!!!

God bless,

Libby

Last day of November

2005-11-30T16:52:00.000-08:00

Wow...where has this month gone? On Dec 10th it will be 2 months since I changed my life. I am doing so much better. I am experimenting with new recipes and having so much fun!

All for now.

May there be a yum yum in your future!

God bless!

Libby

I am doing well still

2005-11-29T03:44:00.000-08:00

I was able to face Thanksgiving and the weekend thereafter with a smile. I didn't gain any weight and I managed to lose a few ounces.

Going out to eat at lunch today with people from work. Fun! I am not worried, I'll find a good wholesome item on the menu and eat it moderately. That's what it's all about.

Eat happy!

God bless,

Libby

Today

2005-11-26T06:26:00.000-08:00

I slow cooked some bean and veggie soup last night for 10 hours in my crockpot and had a small bowl this morning for breakfast. Know it sounds weird, but it smelled so good that I had to try it. It was wonderful. Then I had promised my husband I would make a cinnamon pastry braid for breakfast. I had a small bit of the end with a slight drizzle of frosting. I needed to know how it tasted. It was fabulous, but very fattening. I am going to eat much healthier the rest of the day. I just needed to taste it out of curiosity. I have 2 more of those frozen in my frig. I am going to bake another one for Christmas morning breakfast and probably give the other one away. Perhaps to my mother. We'll see.

Lots of house re-arranging to do today, to get ready for Christmas. There is a light blanket of snow on the ground. It's so beautiful. Life seems to look better, smell better and feel better. Even with a cold and scratchy voice. It's almost gone though.

What a nice long weekend. I've enjoyed shopping and spending time with my family.

Eat well and if you need to try something, don't deny yourself, just have a smaller portion to satisfy your curiosity.

God Bless!

Libby

Thanksgiving....

2005-11-25T08:13:00.000-08:00

Went WONDERFULLY!!! I had small portions of just about everything. I even had dessert. I had a sliver of pumpkin pie, banana cream and some chocolate cake. Very small pieces, but just enough wonderful indulgence to satisfy. I loaded up on the veggies and felt better about eating a little white meat, cornbread stuffing, mash potatoes and even GGGGGRAVY!!!! The cranberry relish was wonderful.

For dinner last night...yes dinner, I had a small, yet satisfying salad. I ate at 2:00 PM, so by 7:30, I needed a little something. I know it was late, but I had a great feeling about the way I behaved yesterday. I had a wonderful breakfast yesterday. Oatmeal with dried crans and walnuts. YUMMY!!!

As far as today, I got up this morning BRIGHT AND EARLY and did some door busting at the old stores. Got some great deals.

Ate breakfast at about 8:30. Scrambled eggs with hotsauce chunk ham and a little bit of american cheese. YUMM.. I split them with my son. He loved them too. I also had a small cup of hot and sour soup. I know it sounds weird for breakfast, but I have a bit of a sinus cold right now. It really helped and it is pretty healthy in moderation.

For lunch I will eating light and for dinner as well. Sunday at my mothers we have left over Thanksgiving yummies. I am thinking about a turkey sand with cranberry relish on some sour dough crusty bread. I am looking forward to that!!! We are decorating mom's house and Christmas tree on Sunday. I am really looking forward to that.

I am so happy...

Eat well...It works and your body will thank you.

God Bless!

Libby

Trying something new that I found

2005-11-23T19:27:00.000-08:00

I found this great site called 3fatchicks.com and they have these cool counters you can use to track your progress and share with others.

Happy days!!!

God bless,

Libby

Well...

2005-11-23T12:52:00.000-08:00

Got my blood drawn on Tuesday and went to go visit some old friends at a former job. That was nice. Yesterday and today were rather light at work. Had a good eating day so far:

Breakfast:

Oatmeal (2 packs maple and brown sugar)
dried cranberries and small amount of walnuts (raw no salt) sprinkled on top.

Lunch:

Lean Cuisine (Chicken and Vegetable)
1 small hass avocado
2 - 4 oz of cut up mango and pine apple

Dinner:

?? Probably some left over pasta with meat sauce and Italian sausage

Lemon water all day long. YUMMY!!!!

I feel good, except for this slight cold I have.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. I am most thankful for my salvation and that Jesus forgave ME. Wow...Who am I? Also, I am thankful that I have this healthier outlook on life and eating and that all of my doctor appts so far have gone well. All procedures and tests have gone well. GREAT!!! We'll see how my physical goes on December 7th. Got all my blood work done the other day. Will be nice to know where I stand with blood sugar, cholesterol and such. I am down another 4 oz. I vowed not to look at that scale more than once a week, but yet, I do. Oh well. No harm.

I FEEL GREAT. I am wearing my size 16 jeans and BOY do they feel baggy! (happy dance)

Lots of love and blessings from the good Lord be upon you!

Good eating. Eat it all tomorrow, just smaller portions. Don't overstuff...That's never good or worth it. I am ready to concur Thanksgiving with vim and vigor!!!!

Tests tomorrow

2005-11-21T17:19:00.000-08:00

I am getting blood work done tomorrow. I am currently experiencing a 12 hour fast. No biggie. I started at 7:30 PM. It's only 8:20 PM right now. Had a great supper. Now, I'm just drinking lemon water until I go to bed and then I eat or drink nothing until after my blood work.

I have my physical in a couple of weeks and I really hope that I get good readings on everything. I have been doing so well and eating so healthy. I want so badly to succeed this time. I have more than my vanity to think about. I'm almost into my mid 30's and I'm obese. I have heart disease, diabetes and stroke that runs in my family. I want to beat the odds. It's not just about weight. Weight is a definite factor, but not the end all be all.

With God's grace and help, I know I will be able to change and stay changed.

Thanksgiving is just 3 days away....GULP. Ehhh, I'll be fine. No worries. New attitude, new priorities...new me! :)

God bless and good eatings.

Libby

Great day of eating yesterday

2005-11-20T05:05:00.000-08:00

Me at my former job ------------------------->

Breakfast:

Small avocado
1 scrabbled egg w/cheddar cheese and milk added (small amounts of each)
1 small persimmon
1 cup green tea with 2 tsp honey

Lunch:

8 pieces of sushi(California rolls, tuna & salmon)
1 cup of hot and sour soup
6 peel and eat steamed shrimp
decent amount of soy sauce
water with lemon

Dinner:

White meat chicken (roasted, but with skin removed)
small serving of plain egg noodles
medium serving of broc steamed
small banana

Snack:

Small bite of my sons hamburger from his happy meal! :)

Went to the movies with my wonderful husband. He had a LARGE soda and a LARGE popcorn and I had ONLY a small disani water. :) Didn't even desire one kernel. Besides the sound of 60 people eating popcorn was quite nauseating!

Challenge for today. Sunday dinner at my mother's will consist of KFC. Hmmm...Should be interesting.

LOVE the newly evolving me... :)

God bless!

Libby

11 lbs 2 oz down

2005-11-19T06:48:00.000-08:00

WOOO HOOO.... It's been almost 2 months since I started my little, well HUGE endeavor and I'm very pleased at my progress. As of today I'm down 11 lbs and 2 oz. only 57 lbs 5 oz to go! :)

Be blessed and healthy!

Libby.

New Scale & a refreshed attitude....

2005-11-13T05:25:00.000-08:00

I purchased a scale last night at Sam's club and boy is it COOL! First of all it weighs you and stores up to 4 weight records. It lets you set a goal weight and then keeps track of how much you've lost since your last weigh in. I think it keeps track of over all weight loss too, but not sure. Anyway, I am INCREDIBLY happy to announce that I have lost a total of 10 lbs and 2 oz in the last month. I am thrilled, elated and cautiously optimistic. The reason being, I know that you tend to lose more your first month. But I don't want to lose this weight over night. I want to lose it slowly and properly so that my overall health will change with the weight loss. I am seeing much clearer skin, much shinier, softer hair and my nails are growing like they did when I was pregnant. :)

I am so pleased with my purchase. 28.95 at Sam's. Well worth the money.

Eat well and be pleased with yourself.

God bless,

Libby

Surprisingly enough...

2005-11-12T03:40:00.000-08:00

I'm not having any difficulty with my "new way" of eating. I am basically following the FDA Food Pyramid. I'm having smaller, more reasonable portions of food. Yesterday, my hubby decided to get a pizza. Just pepperoni and cheese. I had some left over chili. Small bowl. And a small slice of pizza and didn't eat the crust, because frankly, it wasn't one of those flavored crusts, so, why bother. :) I feel that I had a sensible, yet enjoyable supper. My chili is extremely healthy too and chocked full of wonderful things. The pizza probably gave me a decent amount of protein, but alas, it was mostly fat, but I had a small piece and didn't eat all of it and I was satisfied. Didn't even think about having another piece. In fact, my 20 month old son ate more pizza than I did last night. :) Wow. Right now for breakfast I'm enjoying a bowl of oatmeal with a tbsp of peanut butter in it. That's right, you heard me, peanut butter. It's really delicious and oh so good for you. A little bit of fat, but a ton of protein and fiber all rolled into one tasty bowl. There is one thing I miss ever so slightly and that is hazelnut coffee with lots of cream and sugar. I basically stopped drinking coffee, because the only way it was palatable to me was to add about 600 calories to it. Thus, making it a very fattening little drink. I have also eliminated pop, soda, carbonated beverages from my diet all together. Don't miss them at all. Pure garbage. I do enjoy a cranberry or cranapple drink every once in a while, but I'm mostly just having water with lemon these days. Love it, crave it, need it! :)

I have a trip to New England in a little over a month. It involves a fair amount of driving from the Midwest and usually stops at McDonald's and Arby's and Burger King. Well, I think what I'm going to do is pack a large bag of trailmix, that I make myself. I love nuts, they love me, so what's the harm. I don't over do it with them either. I am also going to pack some fruit and some turkey wraps and a granola bar for breakfast. Perhaps two? Anyway, I will not be a victim of to any fast food. I don't need it and don't really like it any more. Don't get wrong I love a good burger and fries. But I want to make them myself and know exactly what I'm putting in my body. And even then, they will be not so frequent foods. There are much healthier choices out there and I am all over them. :)

Good eats to all.

God bless,

Libby

Still standing

2005-11-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

I have so much energy since I started eating better. It's truly liberating to make better choices and feel good about them and dare I say, crave them. I love fruit, nuts, fish, oatmeal, all of the great things I am eating. I am so pleased with my progress. I'm not sure what my overall progress is at this time. I need a new scale. The one I have is off by about 8 or 9 lbs. Can't get a decent assessment of what I weight with that one. I am thinking about buying one of those that give you body, fat and water weight. We'll see.

Next time I'll include my recipe for acorn squash, carrot, potato soup.

To your health!

Libby