Weeellll, here we are again my loyal followers. I am back in business again! The highest weight loss reported was last February, which was 30 pounds. I got my bloodwork done in June and everything was perfect. I had improved dramatically and needed no meds at the time. Sooooo, I thought cool and being the carbohydrate addict that I am, quickly went off the wagon. The good thing is that to this day, I rarely eat anything white, as in potatoes, pasta, rice and bread. For this, I am very pleased with myself.
As I sit here tonight, I am at 7 pounds form the 30. So, yes, all of you mathematicians out there...I have gained 23 pounds back. I have been so upset with myself and so avoiding blogging again, but over the past week I have really wanted to get back with the program. As many of you know, my personal swimsuit season is right around the corner and I do not want to look like a whale laying on the beach in sunny Florida!
I have lost 5 pounds in the past week. I have walked a couple of times around the neighborhood and down yard work. It is a start :)
The most compelling thing that I want to say is that how bad I feel about disappointing all of my followers who have taken that step toward healthy living and weight loss. I was talking to a friend of mine the other day, an Activity Director colleague, and it is because of this blog that she started her own exercise and dieting program. I felt happy that I had influenced a person's life, but totally embarrassed that I had not only let myself down, but I had let her down as well. I am so sorry for that Marybeth!
That is it for today! I will be working out after school on Tuesday if any of you Spartans want to join me in the Fitness Center??
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Short Update
I lost 2 pounds this week and worked out a couple of times. I went back on good carbs yesterday, but I am going to try no carbs again during the week. I think I will try this for awhile and see what kind of results I have. To be continued...
Monday, April 25, 2011
Restart!!
Well, after a couple of trips and some time away, I am starting the 2 week Phase 1 of the South Beach Diet today! This is the phase with no carbs for 2 weeks.
To date, I have lost and maintained a weight loss of 17 pounds, Yes, I have gained 13 back of what I had lost. I guess I now know how careful I will have to be when I go off of the strict guidelines of the South Beach Diet. I haven't totally lost it! I have just been eating too many of the right kind of carbs and not exercising at all.
I am starting a 2-3 day exercise routine with a friend at my work and hopefully, this will motivate me. It is also going to be nice to take the dog for a walk now that the weather is starting to improve.
I appreciate all of your support and I will keep you updated!
To date, I have lost and maintained a weight loss of 17 pounds, Yes, I have gained 13 back of what I had lost. I guess I now know how careful I will have to be when I go off of the strict guidelines of the South Beach Diet. I haven't totally lost it! I have just been eating too many of the right kind of carbs and not exercising at all.
I am starting a 2-3 day exercise routine with a friend at my work and hopefully, this will motivate me. It is also going to be nice to take the dog for a walk now that the weather is starting to improve.
I appreciate all of your support and I will keep you updated!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Update Coming Soon!
Obviously, I have been away from blogging for over a month now. I will have an update on the progress over the weekend, but I will let you know that I have gained a few pounds. Not the end of the world...just too much going on in my life and I have always dealt with problems with food, so now I am learning to re-train myself.
Talk to you soon and I am still 2 sizes down and over 25 pounds!
Talk to you soon and I am still 2 sizes down and over 25 pounds!
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Plateau!
It is has happened...boo hiss. I am stuck at 30! I am getting a little depressed so I thought I would blog this morning. The weather sucks and I am not losing. I also think I have Seasonal Affective Disorder...seriously. Sad to say that I didn't even really enjoy the sun for the past 2 days because I can still see the piles of snow. This isn't helping the weight loss when I really need to push it.
What is the plan? First, cut out some carbs and up the protein. Second, exercise at class on Monday and Tuesday and for another 2 times throughout the week. Third, go tanning to get a base for Florida and hopefully, relieve some of the depression. I just need to feel warm!
I could really use some encouragement people...so give me some love! I need to lose 5-6 pounds by February 28 to stay on track.
Update: Jim continues, but I think he has also reached a plateau himself. My mom, having spent the last 3 weeks in Florida, has increased her loss to 18! Way to go mom!
What is the plan? First, cut out some carbs and up the protein. Second, exercise at class on Monday and Tuesday and for another 2 times throughout the week. Third, go tanning to get a base for Florida and hopefully, relieve some of the depression. I just need to feel warm!
I could really use some encouragement people...so give me some love! I need to lose 5-6 pounds by February 28 to stay on track.
Update: Jim continues, but I think he has also reached a plateau himself. My mom, having spent the last 3 weeks in Florida, has increased her loss to 18! Way to go mom!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
A Changed Woman!
This week I started taking 2 fitness classes. On Monday, I had a very energetic Zumba workout and on Tuesday a Cardio/Core workout. By the second night, I was questioning why I would take 2 classes and why I would do them back to back. I feel like if they were spread out that I would make excuses not to go to one of them. I actually feel fine and have no major aches or pains. I did both workouts to the best of my ability and did not waver. Is this really Julie Harb typing this into the blog? Yep, it is!
I, sometimes, feel like I am on some reality show and that my blog is being published nationwide for all to see. If that were the case, I would say, GREAT! If I can make this much change in my life in a few short months, I know others can do the same. If I have helped any of you along my journey, I am thankful!
As of this morning, I have lost 31 pounds in less than 16 weeks. I had a blood test on Monday, given free by the RiteAid Wellness Program. The blood test showed overall cholesterol and glucose levels. I am happy to report the results...my glucose is now down 30 points and is in the normal range and my total cholesterol has dropped 20 points. I am going to be excited to see the full workup in April with my doctor. My triglycerides were the worst and I am sure that with this low carb, whole wheat carb diet, those levels have dropped as well.
This is my story and I AM STICKING TO IT!
I, sometimes, feel like I am on some reality show and that my blog is being published nationwide for all to see. If that were the case, I would say, GREAT! If I can make this much change in my life in a few short months, I know others can do the same. If I have helped any of you along my journey, I am thankful!
As of this morning, I have lost 31 pounds in less than 16 weeks. I had a blood test on Monday, given free by the RiteAid Wellness Program. The blood test showed overall cholesterol and glucose levels. I am happy to report the results...my glucose is now down 30 points and is in the normal range and my total cholesterol has dropped 20 points. I am going to be excited to see the full workup in April with my doctor. My triglycerides were the worst and I am sure that with this low carb, whole wheat carb diet, those levels have dropped as well.
This is my story and I AM STICKING TO IT!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
A Couple of Pictures
I couldn't get the picture to rotate in the blog, but I think that you can see a difference.
Starting the 2 exercise classes this week!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
New Recipes
As of last Sunday, I am now down 29 pounds! It is really hard not to weigh myself everyday, but I have found that I always drop on the weekend. So, this week, I am trying not to weigh myself everyday. It has worked all, but 1 day. I do find, though, that even when I gain a little during the week, I do not get as disgusted with myself as has been past Julie diet mode. I just sit back and remember all that I have accomplished in such a short amount of time.
I was discussing the weight program and blog today with 2 friends who knew nothing of it. They asked me what the South Beach diet did for me. I can honestly say that I do not think any diet can do it for you until you are ready to lose the weight and, more importantly, make a lifestyle change. I sometimes cannot believe these words are coming from my mouth.
The keys to any change in life are to make it simple, set little goals for yourself, and to try new things.
I have 2 new recipes for you that I have made, or should I say, made up myself. For Christmas, I told the kids that we were not having cheesy potatoes this year. Instead, we were going to have cheesy artichokes. Do you remember the no-bake cookies that have the chocolate, peanut butter and oats in them? I thought so...soooo good, right?
Artichoke Dish ( a newer version of the Christmas side dish):
You will need the following in any amount:
Frozen artichoke hearts (thawed and drained)
green pepper
onion
fresh mushrooms
fresh cilantro
garlic
sun dried tomatoes
freshly grated Parmesan cheese
chopped walnuts
Mrs. Dash regular spice or any herbs and Italian spices you want.
First, chop all of the fresh vegetables and into small chunks (personal choice) and mince the garlic.
Use spray olive oil or liquid olive oil in a pan to saute the vegetables and garlic together for about 10 minutes (you do not want them to be too mushy).
In a bowl mix the artichoke hearts and the sauteed vegetables. Add in the sun dried tomatoes, about 1/2 cup of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and the spices of your choice. Mix well.
Put the artichoke mixture in a pie plate cover again with Parmesan cheese and some chopped walnuts.
Heat at 350 for about 25 minutes or until the cheese if fully melted.
Eat!
Famous No Bake Cookie Dessert
Mix all of the following ingredients in a small (one serving) bowl:
1 Jello Brand sugar-free chocolate pudding (the small pre-made snack size containers you get in the refrigerator section at the grocery store).
1 tablespoon peanut butter (I prefer chunky and we use the Smart Balance brand).
1/4 cup of plain Old-Fashioned Oats
Eat!
Delicious and it tastes just like the cookies!!
This is our 14th week on the diet and our family has lost a small child. No, not our own...Jim has lost 28 pounds and my mom has lost almost 16 pounds. Way to go family!!
I was discussing the weight program and blog today with 2 friends who knew nothing of it. They asked me what the South Beach diet did for me. I can honestly say that I do not think any diet can do it for you until you are ready to lose the weight and, more importantly, make a lifestyle change. I sometimes cannot believe these words are coming from my mouth.
The keys to any change in life are to make it simple, set little goals for yourself, and to try new things.
I have 2 new recipes for you that I have made, or should I say, made up myself. For Christmas, I told the kids that we were not having cheesy potatoes this year. Instead, we were going to have cheesy artichokes. Do you remember the no-bake cookies that have the chocolate, peanut butter and oats in them? I thought so...soooo good, right?
Artichoke Dish ( a newer version of the Christmas side dish):
You will need the following in any amount:
Frozen artichoke hearts (thawed and drained)
green pepper
onion
fresh mushrooms
fresh cilantro
garlic
sun dried tomatoes
freshly grated Parmesan cheese
chopped walnuts
Mrs. Dash regular spice or any herbs and Italian spices you want.
First, chop all of the fresh vegetables and into small chunks (personal choice) and mince the garlic.
Use spray olive oil or liquid olive oil in a pan to saute the vegetables and garlic together for about 10 minutes (you do not want them to be too mushy).
In a bowl mix the artichoke hearts and the sauteed vegetables. Add in the sun dried tomatoes, about 1/2 cup of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and the spices of your choice. Mix well.
Put the artichoke mixture in a pie plate cover again with Parmesan cheese and some chopped walnuts.
Heat at 350 for about 25 minutes or until the cheese if fully melted.
Eat!
Famous No Bake Cookie Dessert
Mix all of the following ingredients in a small (one serving) bowl:
1 Jello Brand sugar-free chocolate pudding (the small pre-made snack size containers you get in the refrigerator section at the grocery store).
1 tablespoon peanut butter (I prefer chunky and we use the Smart Balance brand).
1/4 cup of plain Old-Fashioned Oats
Eat!
Delicious and it tastes just like the cookies!!
This is our 14th week on the diet and our family has lost a small child. No, not our own...Jim has lost 28 pounds and my mom has lost almost 16 pounds. Way to go family!!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Happy New Year!
My wish for everyone is that this year brings you good health and happiness! Wishing for prosperity in these tough economic times, well, just isn't going to happen and who needs it anyway. We all need to focus on the important things in life...your family and friends. We also need to focus on doing kind things for others. Believe it or not, being kind to others brings that good health and happiness we all need in 2011! Random acts of kindness are always fun too!
As for my journey...it continues in 2011. To date, I have made it through the holiday season without gaining an ounce! In fact, through numerous gatherings and parties, I have managed to lose another 2 pounds. This puts my total at 27 pounds in 12 weeks! We had a skinnygirl Christmas dinner at our house this year. No starch was included, with the exception of some whole wheat rolls. I also tried a new artichoke recipe, which once it is revised a bit, I will post on this blog.
My step-daughters and their boyfriends gave me the Biggest Loser workout for Christmas. It is for Wii and incorporates the balance board that is used with Wii Fit. It is a wonderful program that allows you to create your own style of workout. You can also pick the number of days per week that you want to work out and the level of training. I love the workouts because they are never boring and a good mix of different types of exercise. You can also choose different areas of the body to focus on.
I am also very committed to increasing my level of exercise in the new year. I am going to sign up for 2 classes that are being offered through the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools, Community Ed. program. In case anyone wants to join me, you can see the offerings and register online at http://communityeducation.pccs.k12.mi.us/. The classes that I am going to take start at the end of January. They are Abs, Floor, Core and More and yes, I am finally going to try Zumba...can't wait! The classes run for eight weeks.
Just a reminder of my goals...no weight gain throughout the Holidays and 5 pounds a month from January through May. That should get me to my 50 pound goal!
Happy, Healthy New Year!
As for my journey...it continues in 2011. To date, I have made it through the holiday season without gaining an ounce! In fact, through numerous gatherings and parties, I have managed to lose another 2 pounds. This puts my total at 27 pounds in 12 weeks! We had a skinnygirl Christmas dinner at our house this year. No starch was included, with the exception of some whole wheat rolls. I also tried a new artichoke recipe, which once it is revised a bit, I will post on this blog.
My step-daughters and their boyfriends gave me the Biggest Loser workout for Christmas. It is for Wii and incorporates the balance board that is used with Wii Fit. It is a wonderful program that allows you to create your own style of workout. You can also pick the number of days per week that you want to work out and the level of training. I love the workouts because they are never boring and a good mix of different types of exercise. You can also choose different areas of the body to focus on.
I am also very committed to increasing my level of exercise in the new year. I am going to sign up for 2 classes that are being offered through the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools, Community Ed. program. In case anyone wants to join me, you can see the offerings and register online at http://communityeducation.pccs.k12.mi.us/. The classes that I am going to take start at the end of January. They are Abs, Floor, Core and More and yes, I am finally going to try Zumba...can't wait! The classes run for eight weeks.
Just a reminder of my goals...no weight gain throughout the Holidays and 5 pounds a month from January through May. That should get me to my 50 pound goal!
Happy, Healthy New Year!
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