tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33243097683700039602024-02-20T10:34:47.990-08:00Shapely Weight from 1958Will a vintage diet result in a vintage figure?Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger124125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-77329459932620578062010-07-28T04:46:00.000-07:002010-07-28T04:50:48.771-07:00I'm Moving . . .Not <em>exactly</em> moving, but I'm no longer going to post about my weight loss experiences on this blog. This blog was started specifically using the "Shapely Weight" diet book. Since I'm not using that book now, it seemed appropriate to let this blog be only about the book.<br /><br />So, I'm going to leave this blog up with posts that are related to the book, but I'm going to begin posting about recent experiences on my regular blog:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.havenofhome.blogspot.com/">www.havenofhome.blogspot.com</a><br /><br />Please come over and "follow" there where the new content will be!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-89169003424661661822010-07-26T05:43:00.001-07:002010-07-26T07:22:21.274-07:00You're going to laugh...God is good. No, that's not the part that you'll laugh at.<br /><br />I have known for years that I need to lose this weight. I know that I can't function as I should carrying this much weight on my body. I have purpose on this Earth and, as a believer, I need to hear and obey the Father so that His will for my life will be accomplished, and I need to do that in the body He gave me. I have a responsibility to be a good steward over it.<br /><br />He certainly has heard my cry in the past regarding being overweight and provided all that I need to take care of this. I know HOW to do it. I just haven't gone ahead and, in obedience, overcome this addiction to food.<br /><br />Here's the funny part: He set me up! Yep. He put me in a position where I <strong>have</strong> to go ahead and do what I have known I need to do for some time. He's also gracious, as I'll show you.<br /><br />Our pastor has called a "Daniel-Fast" for our church. My family has committed to eating according to Daniel 1:12 and 10:1-2, which, in a nutshell, means no dairy, no meat, no yeast, no preservatives, and no sweeteners. We had a choice of 10 or 21 days. We chose to do this for 21 days.<br /><br />We began July 19. I've lost four pounds since then.<br /><br />Here's the part about His being gracious: The pastor asked if he could move our Anniversary celebration (see <a href="http://shapelyweightfrom1958.blogspot.com/search/label/anniversary">HERE</a> for explanation--start at the bottom) to August 15 so that we could "feast" at our party.<br /><br />So, not only did I get a major push to go ahead and do what I need to do physically, my anniversary "deadline" has been moved LOL!<br /><br />The purpose of this fast is focusing on God, of course. I'm already hearing wonderful and challenging things from Him and enjoying that aspect of the fast.<br /><br />I decided that I will post about the food side of this because it has certainly been an experience . . . (ha!)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-36621910161697798092010-06-09T17:59:00.000-07:002010-07-26T07:19:00.282-07:00Aaaarrrrgh!OK, I feel better now. A little bit, anyway.<br /><br />Thanks to all sorts of things going on for weeks now, I've pretty much only maintained my weight. Normally, that would be acceptable, but with my 25th anniversary situation coming up (more like "looming") in less than two months, I'm really wanting to give up any efforts at weight-loss at all. It just seems like it's too late.<br /><br />My thoughts run something like this:<br /><ul><li>"Two months! That's not long enough to have visible weight-loss unless I starve myself!"</li><li>"Is there a way to avoid all pictures?"</li><li>(Guilt, guilt) "Surely SOME weight-loss would be better than none, right?"</li><li>"OMG, what will I wear???"</li><li>"Why can I NOT get this under control?" (More guilt.)</li></ul><p>I've been exercising like crazy this week, but I've not reduced the calories. It really, really, really has to be both for me. </p><p>So, I'm voting for "some is better than none," and I'm going to reduce those doggone calories and keep up with my exercise.</p><p>Maybe that will net me enough weight-loss to merit a new outfit . . . .and a neck-to-knees girdle!</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-14863284053316824162010-05-07T18:51:00.000-07:002010-05-07T19:05:50.886-07:00Whew!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxY3Nnu55v8NC1VFSP_AzV5tORBXmNdOx-cwi-KhL4hkijfwXO82OWUBxY8SRrT_WlE20pC8KaW8fyBgIDduVTBfSPgJwIZkr7nyET7bDXiuhIw8w_mxVaE9GRJAE8FfOhW-6R1_KCdONP/s1600/AAAAC-lfYckAAAAAAEX9Dw.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468710962559618674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxY3Nnu55v8NC1VFSP_AzV5tORBXmNdOx-cwi-KhL4hkijfwXO82OWUBxY8SRrT_WlE20pC8KaW8fyBgIDduVTBfSPgJwIZkr7nyET7bDXiuhIw8w_mxVaE9GRJAE8FfOhW-6R1_KCdONP/s200/AAAAC-lfYckAAAAAAEX9Dw.jpg" /></a> Ahhhh. Cinco de Mayo. I've studied the background for the celebration. The history is interesting, certainly. BUT, it's all about the food, baby!<br /><br />I enjoyed every morsel, too, from the day we prepared the food, to the 5th itself and then the leftovers today. But guess what????? I didn't gain any weight!!! I paced myself carefully, not indulging to the degree I would normally. It paid off.<br /><br />There's still a bit in the frig, but I'm back on the diet on Saturday (tomorrow).<br /><br />This year we added another amazing recipe. It's from a lady in our church who was born and raised in Texas. That's close to Mexico! The sauce itself would make a fabulous chip dip. My sister and <a href="http://kidsandweeds.blogspot.com/">FarmMom</a> (who was visiting) even let me lick the bowl. I was polite and used a utensil.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff6600;">Cinco de Mayo Enchiladas</span></strong><br /><br /><span style="color:#000000;">3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts</span><br /><br />Boil breasts in water with a packet of fajita mix marinade. Cool and shred.<br /><br /><strong>Sauce:</strong><br />32 ounces sour cream<br />1 pound grated cheddar (reserve some for top)<br />2 oz. cans green chilis<br />1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapenos<br />1/2 cup picante sauce<br />garlic, salt, and Mrs. Dash, to taste<br />Flour tortillas (large or small)<br /><br />Stir all sauce ingredients together. Reserve 1 pint. Mix the rest of the sauce with the shredded chicken. Fill flour tortillas with chicken mixture and place in a 9 x 13 casserole. Pour reserved sauce over the top and bake 25 minutes at 350. Sprinkle reserved cheese on top and bake five minutes more.<br /><br />The rest of the menu was the same as our 2009 celebration which you can view <a href="http://shapelyweightfrom1958.blogspot.com/2009/05/week-five-monday-and-tuesday-menus.html">HERE</a>.<br /><br />Ole!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-46229655965943221072010-05-03T09:08:00.000-07:002010-05-03T09:40:09.493-07:005/3 Weigh-in<div align="left">What a week! I spent the whole week preparing for a giant two-day yard sale. I monitored what I ate each day and had both my sister and my husband hold me back from getting a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">McD's</span> Sweet Tea on the yard sale days. That was the hardest!<br /><br />Since I was careful, I didn't GAIN anything! I consider that an achievement considering the whacked out schedule I kept all week.<br /><br />This week, however, might be even more of a challenge. Some dear friends of ours are coming for a visit that just <em>happened</em> to coincide with one of my favorite holidays: <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Cinco</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">de</span> Mayo.<br /><br />I'm really going to try hard, but I suspect those four little pounds I lost and have kept off might be making a come-back this week. I really will try.<br /><br />The funny thing is that this time last year we had a yard sale and then celebrated <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Cinco</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">de</span> Mayo. For some reason they go together for me.<br /><br />Here's the post from last year if you'd like to see some recipes!<br /><br /><center><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"><a href="http://shapelyweightfrom1958.blogspot.com/2009/05/week-five-monday-and-tuesday-menus.html"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Cinco</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">de</span> Mayo 2009</a></span></div></center>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-37592875620509357222010-04-26T06:12:00.000-07:002010-04-26T06:24:09.886-07:00Drum roll, please!In my last post I mentioned that I have a HUGE motivation to get this weight off. We are apparently going to be "thrown" an anniversary party for our 25th. There will be pictures. (Shrieking loudly deep inside my soul.)<br /><br />I heard that news last Sunday. On Tuesday I got REALLY serious. REALLY. I walked every day, including this Sunday. I FAITHFULLY followed my diet. I downed 8-9 glasses of water each day. I went to the bathroom a lot.<br /><br />Well, it worked! Imagine that. <br /><br />I lost 4.4 pounds this week! I suspect that a lot of that is excess water retention. Fine with me. Since it was hanging around, it had to go. I don't expect the next week to have as dramatic of a loss, but 1-2 (preferably two!) pounds a week will put me in the 160s by August 3rd. <br /><br />I just finished my 20 minute walk. I'm sipping my second glass of water while I'm typing this and I'm about to have my low-calorie breakfast. A sense of the <em>possibility </em>of success is flooding through me. <br /><br />I will do this.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-34778520913492055262010-04-19T18:53:00.000-07:002010-07-26T07:18:30.348-07:004/19 Weigh-in and a BIG Motivation on the horizonI am so loving this digital scale. Those tenths of a pound are fun to see. According to this wonderful scale, I am 6/10s of a pound DOWN. Woo hoo!<br /><br />I'm going to pick up on the exercise this week and see if I can actually move BEYOND tenths to ACTUAL pounds. That would be nice.<br /><br />In fact, I'd better get those pounds coming off just a little faster than that. One of those "life motivators" is staring me in the face.<br /><br />August 3rd will be our 25th wedding anniversary. We are not outgoing people. We like to keep things low-key and pretty private. Much to my surprise (and chagrin), our pastor started talking to us from the pulpit during announcement time about this special event. THEN he announced that the church was going to give us a party. My smile froze.<br /><br />You know what went through my mind? PICTURES. They will insist on taking PICTURES at this party. I just can't be the weight I am for those pictures!<br /><br />I have exactly FIFTEEN weeks. If I can lose a pound a week, I'll be down to 173. If I step up the exercise, I might be able to make that 1 1/2 pounds a week. That would bring it down to 165.<br /><br />CAN I DO IT???<br /><br />I had my son make a sign that says, "August 3." I put it on the refrigerator.<br /><br />CAN I DO THIS???<br /><br />(Why, oh why didn't we get married in December?)<br /><br /><p align="left"><a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn47/RoxanneB-2008/baby%20pics/Weddingphoto.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-34073527955722273992010-04-13T05:48:00.000-07:002010-04-13T06:05:39.841-07:00Weigh-in and a PollAfter over a week of being off the wagon thanks to tax preparation, Easter, and Son's birthday party, I stepped on the scale. I'm up 8/10ths of a pound. Not bad considering all the high-calorie foods I consumed.<br /><br />I'm back on track this week and have already exercised this morning. My water-intake was practically non-existent, so I'm being more conscientious about that, too.<br /><br />I still have a four pound loss, so I've decided to reward myself when I get to five pounds (with no spare "tenths!). A banana split! Just kidding. No, I'm actually going to go for a pedicure. Spring is truly <em>trying </em>to come to our area of the country, though this morning's temp of 43 is not in agreement!<br /><br />My favorite color is candy-apple red. I always use it. It is just so . . . red! I've considered other colors, but I keep going back to this one. I decided it was high-time I did a poll. It has absolutely nothing to do with calories, lettuce, or weight-loss. It has to do with nail polish color!<br /><br />What ONE color would you consider as your essential pedicure color? If you like to use everything, then ask yourself the "dessert island" question and narrow it down to one.<br /><br />Come and vote!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-85078667551185949862010-04-06T21:01:00.000-07:002010-04-06T21:04:12.760-07:00Weigh-inI am stretched to the max this week: Easter, Taxes (which are extremely involved due to our business, etc.), homeschooling, and now we've got actual thunder and I have to get off of the computer!<br /><br />I wanted to check in, though, and say that I like my new scale. I like it because it says nice things like . . .<br /><br />I lost another pound!!!!!!<br /><br />I refrained from kissing it, though the effort might have burned a couple of calories.<br /><br />Oops--there goes more lightning. I believe I'll shut down now!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-3132909477593456232010-04-01T19:46:00.001-07:002010-04-02T17:00:00.947-07:00I got a new scale!My old scale had broken a couple of weeks ago. I told my husband I was going to go to the vet's office to weigh. He was not amused. I knew the ladies who worked there would totally understand, but he just got a pained expression and told me that we would be fitting a scale into the budget.<br /><br />Today I finally got one. It's digital and it gave me an official number. A number that I'm afraid to share as it's pretty embarrassing.<br /><br />Here's my concern: If I share it, will you give a little scream of horror and turn your face away from your computer screen? Will you give a quiet "tsk, tsk" in a disapproving way? Will you "un-follow" me?<br /><br />You see, I was never fat until AFTER my son was born. In high school, I weighed about 108. At 5'4" I looked healthy. At my wedding at 21, I weighed 121. At 25, I weighed 125. I never thought about my weight at all. It wasn't an all-consuming, daily condemning issue like it is now. (BTW, after 25yo the numbers didn't follow my age so nicely!)<br /><br />I was 147 pounds the day <em>after</em> I gave birth. I weighed 150 when I GOT pregnant. I had gestational diabetes and spent the last three months of my pregnancy strictly monitoring my diet (and I mean STRICT) so that I wouldn't have to use insulin. Apparently all the baby weight was just that--the baby and all the accompanying stuff! It all came off plus three pounds, but I didn't take advantage of that nice situation.<br /><br />After he was born, I went through a several-month bout of postpartum depression. My hormones were all over the place and the only thing that made me feel "normal" was chocolate. And chips. And ice cream. Once I began to feel more myself and more confident about mothering, I just kept on eating the junk. Mostly 'cause it tasted good, but also because I'd gotten into the pattern of eating for emotional reasons.<br /><br />That's when I really packed on the pounds. My son will be 8yo in just a few days. I've spent nearly 1/5 of my life at a <em>very</em> uncomfortable weight. My husband keeps telling me to stop saying bad things to my reflection in the mirror. So, I try not to look in the mirror!<br /><br />Dare I reveal the number? Yay or nay? Will it be like a catharsis for me, or just plain ol' everyday humiliation? Will posting that number help me to FACE the reality of it and get ON with this effort to change permanently? I THINK it might. Or will I regret it?<br /><br />Aside from the committment to a starting number, the digital scale I can even give TENTHS of pounds! That alone might make it worth posting. (Ha!)<br /><br />What do you think? Are YOU ready to see those digits? LOL!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-25734549980323764552010-03-29T16:26:00.000-07:002010-03-29T16:39:01.285-07:00A Plateau of willpower already?Excuses. I hate excuses. They are so flimsy, yet I cling to them. Bah!<br /><br />I had three weeks (21 days to change a habit, right?) of fantastic follow-through on monitoring my calories. Then, Week Four was a week of power rearranging of three rooms of the house which gave me lots of good exercise, but lots of calories. It went downhill from there.<br /><br />Then we come to this week (Week Five). Newest excuse? Husband has been working the night shift and is home all day, but needing to sleep for part of the day. For some reason I'm allowing this to be a problem in the eating department. I've been cooking good meals all along, but I keep randomly grazing those extra calories and visiting the McD's drive-thru for Sweet Tea. I could try to blame it on the schedule, but that's really not the reason.<br /><br />Mainly, I've lost sight of my long-term goal and letting instant gratification (Easter candy and Sweet Tea!) get in the way.<br /><br />I've maintained my 3 pounds lost, but I'm up an inch.<br /><br />And Aunt Flo has come for a visit. Chocolate cravings magnified!<br /><br />The only thing that can get this turned around is willpower. I have no problem telling my son "no" if something isn't good for him. Should I call my mother and have her tell me "no?" I doubt it would help--I probably wouldn't listen to her, either!<br /><br />On a positive note, we started some herb plants this morning. And, though it was 20 degrees on Saturday morning, it looks like we'll be in the 70s for a couple of days by the end of the week.<br /><br />Spring is coming! A return of outdoor activity.<br /><br />The willpower needs to return, too.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-35171795178029652072010-03-23T18:58:00.001-07:002010-03-23T19:13:33.962-07:00Week 4 StatsI was so busy yesterday that I forgot to post my stats! First the numbers:<br /><br />Considering I fell off the wagon last week, there was apparently no damage done. The three pounds are still gone and the inches haven't changed either. I attribute that to the fact that I worked myself to the bone hauling furniture all over Kingdom come!<br /><br /><em>(Speaking of "Kingdom come," I've been saying that phrase since I was little as it's a "southern" kind of thing. It wasn't until I typed it that I wondered about its origin. I suspected it was referring to the Bible, but now I have the definitive answer: It's referring to the Lord's Prayer where Jesus says, "Thy will be done; Thy Kingdom come. . ." How's that for a little trivia?)<br /></em><br />Back on topic. I'm maintaining my exercise level so far this week. I haven't been keeping track of my calories (again due to busyness), but will jump in tomorrow with some numbers.<br /><br />Now, I'd like to address an area that could be a problem when trying to lose weight. Sure, I'm over 40. That alone makes it more of a challenge. Hormones? Check. Too much of a sweet tooth? Unfortunately, yes. But there's another area: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJrvPbqgCTVz12oCesQZFDD12MJDqOBS8pw5H7jiRofRPDiwx3W2Mr-TfLC-IUoLld0kTV0tJWeQufrKtbgV5XKE1LrQSoUematUBqmGm1HNvoX1BupvNKXaSRpqMlhB3VHuqplt-jAAl/s1600-h/3389485281_7804f3ed8e.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 239px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452014046294039986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJrvPbqgCTVz12oCesQZFDD12MJDqOBS8pw5H7jiRofRPDiwx3W2Mr-TfLC-IUoLld0kTV0tJWeQufrKtbgV5XKE1LrQSoUematUBqmGm1HNvoX1BupvNKXaSRpqMlhB3VHuqplt-jAAl/s320/3389485281_7804f3ed8e.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Sleep.<br /><br />Here is just ONE of a whole lot of articles that talk about the connection between enough sleep and weight loss: <a href="http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/sleep-more-weigh-less">WebMD--Sleep More, Weigh Less.</a> I have also read (many places) that the sleep you get BEFORE midnight is more beneficial. Studies have suggested that 1 hour before 12am is equal to 4 hours after 12pm. <a href="http://rawfooddietsecrets.com/blog/20/raw-foods-and-the-importance-of-sleep/">The Importance of Sleep</a> is a link that talks about that.<br /><br />I can vouch that I was READY for bed every night last week. There was no 30 minutes to an hour to finally drop off to sleep, either. I was out cold within a few minutes after hitting the pillow--and I was seeking that pillow around 8pm! Interestingly, it was actually easier for me to get up at my usual time between 6 and 6:30, even though I was so bodily tired the night before.<br /><br />It's 9:49 now and I'm heading to bed shortly. I'm liking feeling more rested. I'm hoping that more sleep before midnight will translate into some help with all this calorie counting and exercising!<br /><br />So, good night, y'all!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-36477649691291965852010-03-18T06:39:00.001-07:002010-03-18T06:47:36.653-07:00Do-overs count, don't they?Evidently Week Four is going to have to be a do-over! <br /><br />It wasn't the lowered calorie cap (1400 calories) that was the problem. I have spent the week moving my Son's room from upstairs to the first floor. That has involved hours (each day and into the night) of sorting, hauling stuff, decluttering, carrying (heavy) furniture, cleaning, etc. as well as rearranging our basement to make all this work.<br /><br />In all of that there was bad and there was good. First, the bad. I had NO time to plan, shop for or monitor the meals, which resulted in the higher calories. <br /><br />But, then we have the good:<br /><ul><li>I still never went over 1800 calories, even without monitoring. I just added things up at the end of the day. A month ago I was consuming close to 3000 calories a day, so I'm not too upset though there will probably not be a change on the scale on Monday.</li><li>I would HOPE that all that hauling up and down stairs (sometimes two flights) would have burned some calories!</li><li>Now that it's done, I'm ready to get back on track. </li></ul><p>So, I declare Week Four to begin (again) on Monday, 3/22.</p><p>(Just so you KNOW that I really, really exercised, I took my Son from a 228 sf room down to an 80 sf room. It doesn't look (too) crowded, either! I'll probably post about it <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.havenofhome.blogspot.com">HERE</a> soon, just to share the miracle LOL!)</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-38728738063304603492010-03-15T07:55:00.000-07:002010-03-15T07:59:55.046-07:003/15 Weigh-inI can tell that there is less *something* around my waistline. It just feels "less." It's a good thing that I feel that because my scale and my measuring tape are registering big ol' ZEROS as far as pound and inch loss.<br /><br />I believe I'll see some downward movement in those two numbers next time because I am over being sick, I'm reducing my calories to 1400 AND (most importantly) I'm planning on five days of exercise this week.<br /><br />At the bottom of my sidebar is my exercise plan. I gave my reasoning for my intended plan <a href="http://shapelyweightfrom1958.blogspot.com/2009/03/my-exercise-routine.html">HERE</a>.<br /><br />I'll do that for a couple of weeks and then tweak again!<br /><br />Pounds lost: 0<br /><br />Inches lost: 0Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-43504622831122986972010-03-13T16:27:00.000-08:002010-03-13T17:03:39.132-08:00Evaluation: It's been three weeksTomorrow will complete three weeks since I began (again) to diet. I decided to do an evaluation of my progress and my methods and tweak things a bit:<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff9966;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Slow is working for me:</span></strong><br /></span><br />First of all, I highly recommend SLOWLY reducing the calories. I have to say that starting at 2000 calories a day and finishing at 1600 calories a day over three weeks has been painless. Yes, you read that correctly. Counting calories has been fairly easy, and being aware of the amount of calories in the foods has sort of empowered me. I know that I can have some of the things I want (zero deprivation) as long as I work it into the total for the day.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Deprivation breeds rebellion:</span></strong><br /><br />In the past, when I've followed a particular diet as it was laid out, I found myself being a bit of a martyr. "Poor, poor me. I can't have this and I can't have that. Blah. Blah." My best effort at a diet that required major levels of my opinion of deprivation (not getting what I want!) was when I followed the <em>Fat Flush Diet</em> for 2 1/2 months. I lost 23 pounds. I loved the result, but I was flat out grouchy and pathetic. Finally, I caved and began to rebelliously binge on anything I wanted. Guess what <span style="color:#000000;">happened</span>?<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Exercise alone won't provide weight loss. Neither will diet alone:</span></strong><br /><strong></strong><br />About two years ago I exercised six days a week, three using weights, and three doing aerobic exercise. I did that <em>faithfully</em> for 16 weeks. I didn't lose and ounce or an inch. Not even one. The reason? I didn't change my eating habits at all. This time I have reduced my calories faithfully. I have exercised twice. I've lost three pounds and two inches, but I know that I would see better results if I would------exercise AND diet.<br /><br /><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>You get less calories in nutrient dense food:</strong><br /><strong></strong></span><br />I already knew that. I think everyone knows that. It certainly was highlighted this week when I had a day of 1395 total calories thanks to two large Mexican salads as part of my food intake, and had a day of 1798 that got that high thanks to 280 of the calories coming from a Snickers bar. On the day I had all that salad, I also had 9 chocolate Kisses. My chocolate needs were satisfied, and my tummy was full--but of good things.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Water is my friend:</span></strong><br /><strong></strong><br />I've discovered that the more I drink water, the more of a taste I'm developing for it. I'm aware that "studies have shown" that adding lime or lemon juice to the water actually makes it work better in our bodies. I'm not there yet. I <em>like</em> the clean taste of fresh, filtered water. Perhaps as the weather changes I'll give the citrus a try.<br /><br />Starting Monday, my new calorie total cap will be 1400. I intend to exercise to see if I can increase the effectiveness of reducing those calories. I'm feeling pretty excited about it!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-39297119351270183482010-03-08T05:50:00.000-08:002010-03-08T05:57:32.185-08:00Monday's StatsI'm still coughing and coughing, but it seems to be getting better. No excuses this week about exercising. In fact, as soon as I post this, I'm off for my walk.<br /><br />My scale is acting up. I stepped on it and it said no pounds lost; then I stepped on it again and it said I've lost 5 pounds. Rather than choosing which I believe (you KNOW which one I would choose!), I think I'm going to have to do my weigh-ins somewhere else. <br /><br />A new scale is not in the budget right now, but there is an animal hospital around the corner. They have a big ol' digital scale that is out front in the waiting room. Yes, it has come to this!<br /><br />So, rather than guessing, I'll try to get up there today and get an accurate reading.<br /><br />Measuring shows another inch overall, but that's still not very much. I believe adding in the exercise (finally) will help that number begin to change.<br /><br />This week's calorie cap goal is 1600 calories. I'm a little nervous about that as it means it will be more difficult than the last two weeks have been. They were a piece of cake! (Oops, sorry.)<br /><br />I hope I don't weigh as much as a Great Dane.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-89235508502606929472010-03-03T16:30:00.000-08:002010-03-03T16:37:57.292-08:00*whimper* . . . I'm sick!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiamUhUrHGFGYKEcyBy4i_KPLdsqugDmbloKif6ePKoU9sBO-HOTOAHCT3FDvz4rx-yD55Ua7tfelDRDc6vBFXeXH4YHP_QIfvc6ACKl-tFi_dFQfrCvBGZWtJHBwbAm5Cdu0OMs_saWYy/s1600-h/!Be!qLyQ!2k~%24(KGrHqYOKkIEq4umLUERBK7ed0B0yw~~_35.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 208px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444569753271988450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiamUhUrHGFGYKEcyBy4i_KPLdsqugDmbloKif6ePKoU9sBO-HOTOAHCT3FDvz4rx-yD55Ua7tfelDRDc6vBFXeXH4YHP_QIfvc6ACKl-tFi_dFQfrCvBGZWtJHBwbAm5Cdu0OMs_saWYy/s320/!Be!qLyQ!2k~%24(KGrHqYOKkIEq4umLUERBK7ed0B0yw~~_35.jpg" /></a> I've been trying to ignore it, but the sad truth is that I'm sick. I've been coughing since Saturday night and it has gotten worse.<br /><br />I've tried my best to keep up with good food choices and keeping my calories at a good point. I've even kept my water intake up.<br /><br />Exercise? It's always the first to go!<br /><br />It's only 7:30, but I really should just go to bed. It hasn't helped that we've been reading about the <strong>Black Plague</strong> in our homeschooling today!<br /><br />Or maybe it has. We have SO much more available to us to deal with things than they did then. I can't imagine losing whole families and whole towns like those people had to experience.<br /><br />I'm grateful for Vick's and whoever now makes them LOL!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-44551671041951179262010-03-01T06:43:00.000-08:002010-03-02T11:12:34.551-08:00You're Fat Because . . .My 1955 <em>Good Housekeeping Cookbook</em> is chock-full of all types of information. Not surprisingly, it also had a section entitled, "<strong>Your Weight</strong>."<br /><br />The introductory paragraph says:<br /><br /><em>During childhood and youth, it's desirable to weigh somewhat more than the average for your height and age.</em><br /><br /><em>By middle age, it is better to maintain the ideal weight for a twenty-five-year-old of your height and sex. After twenty-five, you tend to slow down your activities, yet your appetitie may remain as hearty and you may eat more than you should. Unless you are among those few who stay thin no matter what, you gain.</em><br /><br /><em>As you grow older, you should not exceed this ideal weight. </em><em></em><br /><br />Sure. Not a problem.<br /><br />Except that I have a problem. The problem I have is spelled out in this ad from 1955. It just lays it out straight:<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://americanwomendidntgetfat.blogspot.com/2010/01/youre-fat-because-you-eat-too-much.html"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 295px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443490716016395586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimeJOKuJVr2CBfneI3PJICT8j_OAMPcoGpkGZv-zFj9a3N-xC7Ozv6LVw_AF1IS5tgZh0dBPjlBhfpeO4B8LN9e7Sczpq__wMvjGBk9KUxycvWyv5il4p6c7iPitw5j_eH2-UBaAN-L73T/s320/homesgardens.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><p>I found this ad at a new site called, "<a href="http://americanwomendidntgetfat.blogspot.com/">American Women Didn't Get Fat</a>!" You must go and check it out--it's great! Click on the ad above for the post about that ad. </p><p>I found HER through Tessa's weight-loss blog <a href="http://tessaslimming.blogspot.com/">HERE</a>. Tessa's already lost over 6 pounds! Congratulations, Tessa!</p><p>Oh yes. Today is MY weigh-in day, isn't it?</p><p>Well, the scales are telling me I've lost 2 pounds and the measuring tape totals at 1 inch! So far, so good. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-21751493707648526972010-02-28T07:34:00.000-08:002010-03-01T06:03:41.307-08:00SundayToday was my last day of week one. Tomorrow is W-Day (Weigh-in Day). I'm hoping there is SOME progress as I have definitely consumed fewer calories than normal. Beginning Monday, my calorie-cap-goal will be 1800. I will also MAKE IT A POINT to exercise.<br /><br />Tonight I decided to have popcorn with the guys (son and husband). It was so NOT worth the extra 100 calories with just salt on it! Live and learn.<br /><br />Calorie Count: 1947<br /><br />Water: 4 glasses<br /><br />Exercise: It's Sunday. It's supposed to be a day of rest. Ignore the fact that I made last week a WEEK of rest from exercising!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-33594528026885307672010-02-28T05:43:00.000-08:002010-03-01T06:04:12.062-08:00Saturday<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5Mbdc0CYPheElk0ybRQhD5VBmu-W18oebb8QlmCaR6VRaDur4Nj2OmSj9okcyQtjUFKhijIstF_RQSKunk4PBk3kMk-NzhCz3ida_XJaLKk1vURWaaT8FMJAOFLRWftR8X-VG9xV6hmE/s1600-h/CB.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 152px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 187px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443383054507763346" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5Mbdc0CYPheElk0ybRQhD5VBmu-W18oebb8QlmCaR6VRaDur4Nj2OmSj9okcyQtjUFKhijIstF_RQSKunk4PBk3kMk-NzhCz3ida_XJaLKk1vURWaaT8FMJAOFLRWftR8X-VG9xV6hmE/s200/CB.jpg" /></a>On Saturday we were home all day and I cooked like a maniac. My 1955 <em>Good Housekeeping Cookbook</em> hasn't seen this much action in decades, I'm sure!<br /><br />I had the following things to accomplish:<br /><ul><li>Saturday night's dessert (<em>Hot-Milk Spongecake</em>)</li><li>The filling for the dessert (<em>Clear Lime Filling</em>)</li><li>Sweet tea for a neighbor (She just had a baby and we're taking the tea with pizza and salad for a meal on Sunday)</li><li>French toast for Sunday's breakfast (instead of stopping at the convenience store on the way to church)</li><li>Saturday night's supper and Sunday's lunch (<em>Potato Chowder</em>)</li></ul><p>I discovered two things that I need in my kitchen. One is a zester. (It was very hard to zest the lime on my grater and my knuckle became a casualty.) I also need a stand mixer. For the spongecake I had to use my hand mixer and blend it for five minutes on high. My forearm became a casualty in that activity.</p><p>I'd like to comment on the spongecake. I have never made a spongecake, but I have made an angel food cake. They are not the same. Spongecake is, well, sponge-like! It was very moist and it was fun to make. The <em>Clear Lime Filling</em> had lots of flavor, but was pretty gelatinous. I had hoped that it would soak into the spongecake, but it sort of just mounded up and sat there. They were both good, though. </p><p>The <em>Potato</em> <em>Chowder</em> was low in calories, but too liquid-y. We like soups that hold the spoon vertically when it is inserted. </p><p>I had TWO servings of the spongecake, so my calories were more than they would have been, but still under the 2000 calorie cap I set for last week. It was too limey and good to resist!</p><p>Calorie count: 1852</p><p>Water: 6 glasses</p><p>Exercise: Still a resounding no. I need to do something about this.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-67608604614589163842010-02-26T09:29:00.000-08:002010-02-26T09:52:24.249-08:00Heartburn?I finally got a chance to sit down and post my menus. They're on the sidebar.<br /><br />I used both my <a href="http://shapelyweightfrom1958.blogspot.com/2009/03/and-so-it-begins.html">Guidebook</a> and the <a href="http://havenofhome.blogspot.com/2009/07/good-housekeeping-cookbook-1955.html">Gem of a Cookbook </a>to pull the meals together. I'll post the recipes as I go along.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSA7kqxjMp0uE4ifHnkeAPVAsXPD5_MLLa47EYu0MNz2GVbRDEPHReoyZIcp3BWC9JEkc_IDPd9ecULZPnzMkRcBZ_Z7rCQW3HOsG_yYHBsO_TJmMK-cKTjAJqZLGaNxYpQK0uLapkTrJS/s1600-h/archives_center_tn.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 152px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442609444214954930" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSA7kqxjMp0uE4ifHnkeAPVAsXPD5_MLLa47EYu0MNz2GVbRDEPHReoyZIcp3BWC9JEkc_IDPd9ecULZPnzMkRcBZ_Z7rCQW3HOsG_yYHBsO_TJmMK-cKTjAJqZLGaNxYpQK0uLapkTrJS/s200/archives_center_tn.jpg" /></a>When my son was around 2 years old (he's almost 8 now), I developed continuous heartburn. It started out at a mild level, but has progressed to the point where it wakes me in the middle of every night, kicks in if I bend over to work, etc., etc.<br /><br />This is my umpteenth diet attempt since gaining this last fifty pounds. Every time I eat properly, get this, <em>the heartburn disappears.</em><br /><br />It seems, for me anyway, that adding in healthy amounts of vegetables and discontinuing drinking sweet tea from McD's does the trick for me. Every time I've gone back to eating horribly and providing for the McD's manager's kids to get braces, I'm back to the heartburn.<br /><br />I've made this connection before, you know. I've known exactly what I need to do. This time, however, my sleep has been affected more than ever before and its more severe than before as well.<br /><br />I started this diet again on Monday. Despite being over a bit on my planned calories, I've been eating HEALTHY meals and NOT visiting the drive-thru. As a result, the night before last I woke up only once. (I had to go to the bathroom--too much water close to bedtime). Last night I didn't wake up AT ALL.<br /><br />The alarm went off this morning and I was REFRESHED!<br /><br />So, if you suffer from heartburn, perhaps you need to up your veggie intake and reduce (or eliminate) the sugared/carbonated drinks altogether.<br /><br />Then, you just might be able to sleep like . . . me!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-34045380646655123732010-02-25T19:00:00.000-08:002010-02-25T19:15:29.724-08:00Day 4 and beyondIt's really interesting to analyze my typical pattern in dieting. I always start on a Monday, so my days always lay out about the same.<br /><br />Today was Day Four for me. Day Four in my life means an evening commitment that involves rushing around and getting ready to leave right when we should be eating supper. That means an early supper, quickly eaten. Then, we return home quite late (usually between 10 and 11) and we're famished.<br /><br />Day Four is also my usual errand running day. I managed to wrangle the calories down to a dull roar, but just barely. No exercise because of being gone nearly all day.<br /><br />For this week I'm working on getting my calories under 2000. That seems like a lot unless you consider that I usually eat between 3000 and 3500 a day. Mostly junk. Next week I'm going to lower my calorie cap to 1800, then 1600, then 1400. I won't go lower than that for two reasons. One, I think I'll be able to drop weight at a steady rate at that calorie amount and, Two, I may start eating the furniture if I try to go lower. Couch stuffing is not tasty. Trust me.<br /><br />Calorie count: 2070<br /><br />Water: 6 glasses<br /><br />Exercise: nadaUnknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-30018626308654928552010-02-25T06:34:00.000-08:002010-02-25T06:50:48.432-08:00Wednesday: Day 3 Emotional Upheaval<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcSJAUulhnxPRyASYlT-xTXNxZtyfPoa_cs8kM6cWxI21ei_Yx2vNq5Z-uA0MP2Pso6gg1iOTUUircSGC7IXbRvbjGpDenQc2QAAIf5haSsHhxSuLEEpQzkGoLQqZZPKOXTJP7aJ-JSBY1/s1600-h/220px-The_Scream.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 157px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442192862934825794" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcSJAUulhnxPRyASYlT-xTXNxZtyfPoa_cs8kM6cWxI21ei_Yx2vNq5Z-uA0MP2Pso6gg1iOTUUircSGC7IXbRvbjGpDenQc2QAAIf5haSsHhxSuLEEpQzkGoLQqZZPKOXTJP7aJ-JSBY1/s200/220px-The_Scream.jpg" /></a><br /><div>My usual diet pattern is manifesting: </div><ul><li>Day 1, usually successful</li><li>Day 2, unusual circumstance regarding food choices</li><li>Day 3, some big emotional thing that makes me want to eat junk</li></ul><p>On Wednesday came the emotional fallout from a situation. I COULD have allowed myself to fully wallow in the junk food arena. I wanted to. I resisted pretty well. The calories were higher than they should have been for the day, but not as high as normal! Also, the calories were primarily GOOD quality food. And water, lots of water. Overall, I think I worked through it fairly well.</p><p>Calorie count: 2200 </p><p>Water: 7 glasses</p><p>Exercise: YES! I managed to get this in.</p><p>After this initial week of reporting in detail, I will go to a sidebar accounting only and will try to write more interesting posts. I'm going shopping today and will be able to use the mid-century menus I've planned.</p><p>I did have a mid-century breakfast menu yesterday: Poached egg, toast, pat of butter, 4 oz. juice. I used a slice of bread from my homemade loaf (see <a href="http://havenofhome.blogspot.com/2010/02/day-in-life-of-me.html">HERE</a>). When I calculated the calories, they came to 160--for ONE piece of bread! I told you the bread was tasty! It was healthy and worth it, but I think I'll slice it thinner next time . </p><p>Off to do the marketing. (Sounds nicer than grocery shopping somehow, doesn't it?)</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-49018895478235351522010-02-23T16:32:00.000-08:002010-02-24T04:18:36.758-08:00Tuesday's ChallengeDay One of a diet is generally one of the easiest days. I'm usually fired up, determined to succeed THIS TIME.<br /><br />Day Two very often offers up an opportunity for instant derailment. My Day Two followed through with tradition.<br /><br />This morning my husband said, "My customer had something come up today so I will be switching them to Saturday. That means we have today free! What do you want to do?"<br /><br />Uh oh.<br /><br />We ended up taking the day to travel to a museum an hour south of here and enjoying all the exhibits. It was great! Food, however, was a challenge.<br /><br />Here's how I met that challenge:<br /><br />Breakfast (270): PBJ (we were rushing around to get out the door) with 2 slices of bread, 1 tbsp. peanut butter, and 1 tsp. jam.<br /><br />Snack (~75): We stopped at one of those touristy places where you get to sample all of their offerings. I sampled around 75 calories worth. I COULD have sampled around 200 calories worth! Score one for willpower.<br /><br />Lunch (355): Half of a 6" sub from <em>Subway</em> (Jared ate at <em>Subway</em> . . .). It would have been less, but I can't stand a sandwich without mayo. I had the turkey/ham with the Italian bread, tomatoes, and onions. (I checked <em>Subway's</em> online nutrition info to get the calorie amounts.)<br /><br />Snack (200): My husband made me. Really, it was all his fault. He listened when I asked him to stop at the convenience store. Therefore, I had HALF of a King-sized <em>Snickers</em> bar. I wanted the whole thing. Point for willpower taken away.<br /><br />Supper (547): We got home late and I slapped together a quickie supper. 2 cups pasta, 1/2 cup pasta sauce, 1 tbsp. butter, 1/2 cup steamed carrots. And. That. Was. It.!<br /><br />It's 7:40 and I really, really want something salty. I've considered popcorn, but without the butter it's not too appealing.<br /><br />I think I'll just go get another glass of water. Oh yeah, water. I've had only 3 glasses today (so far). Yes, I think I'll go get a glass of water. Maybe I'll get a veggie, too. I see that I've had only 2 servings today.<br /><br />Calories today: 1597<br /><br />(Another derailment opportunity is making itself known. When my "monthly" situation is on its way, I get a major headache. I also get major chocolate cravings. That would explain the <em>Snickers</em> incident earlier. I've read that magnesium helps with those issues. I have magnesium!)<br /><br />ETA: I ended up having an apple. It didn't <em>quite</em> do the trick. I added a few crackers. There. 150 calories more and I could carry on.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3324309768370003960.post-62443421386540790272010-02-22T17:28:00.000-08:002010-02-22T17:40:14.405-08:00Monday's StatsDay One is over. I thought I'd post my calorie consumption. It wasn't vintage today as I'm not quite prepared. I'll try to put that together in the morning for the rest of the week.<br /><br />Meanwhile, my total calories for today: 1608 <br /><br />Total water for today: 5 glasses<br /><br />Exercise: Oops! I forgot about that. If I don't do it first thing in the AM, I never get around to it.<br /><br />Evaluation: Considering I've <strong>been</strong> putting away around 3000 calories a day, I've already cut my consumption in half!<br /><br /><strong>Here's how the food went:</strong><br /><br />Breakfast (175): 1 slice bread, 1 tablespoon peanut butter, 1 tsp. jam<br /><br />Lunch (305): BIG salad with 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil and 1 tablespoon lime juice. I also sprinkle cayenne in there. 1/2 can of cream soda because it was in the frig from last night and it called my name. All cans of soda have been banished.<br /><br />Snack (475): Had some trouble mid-afternoon. I started out with 3 vanilla wafers. Still hungry. Saw the last bit of queso in the frig (when I retrieved the cream soda). It spoke to me and the tortilla chips chimed in. I limited myself to 3 tablespoons of the queso and 9 chips. <br /><br />Still hungry. Added small apple. <br /><br />4 more vanilla wafers joined me on my walk down to the cellar to add a log to the fire. <br /><br />(Tomorrow will be better, though. The cokes are banished and I finished the queso. I'll send the vanilla wafers with hubby, but keep the apples.)<br /><br />Supper (511): I was surprised at how high the calorie count was. I had 1 cup brown rice, 1 cup stir-fry veggies, and 4 oz. of grilled steak. I mixed it all together, and splashed a little soy sauce on it. Planning the menus will help avoid this high of a count, I think.<br /><br />Dessert (142): I made Tapioca pudding as a nod to the mid-century. <br /><br />Obviously if I reduce the snacks and drink only water, I will be well on my way to a weight-loss inducing calorie count!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7