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!
Saturday, February 5, 2011
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!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
First Goal...DONE!
It's official! I made it to 25 pounds today...actually 25.4! I could not have achieved this goal without this blog and the support of all of you. I have never lost so much weight before without paying a lot of money to someone else to help me.
The exercise is still on the slow side. I am walking when I can, but other forms of exercise have been difficult, especially because of another health issue that I have, which is chronic hives. They get worse with warmth, so many forms of exercise are just too much for me right now. I am still looking forward to Zumba and Hot Yoga in 2011!
I have already set up my future goals, which are small and hopefully, achievable. First, to stay at the 25 pound loss throughout the holiday season! My future goal is to lose 5 pounds per month starting in January for 5 months. That should get me to my 50 pound goal and at that point I will have all of my bloodwork done. I have only been able to achieve the success that I have so far because of the small goals that I have set for myself.
My mom has lost 13 pounds and Jim...well I do not ask. I think he needs to re-read all of the blog posts and get back with the program!
RECIPE: Stuffed Green Peppers
Start out with 4 large green peppers or any color pepper would be fine, if you want some variety.
You will also need to mix the following ingredients in a large bowl: 2 pounds of a ground lean meat (beef, pork, turkey), 1 can cannellini beans (undrained), 1 onion finely diced, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 cup whole wheat bread crumbs, garlic salt, pepper and oregano.
Stuff the green peppers with your mixture from the bowl and place in a crock pot (liners are wonderful for easy clean-up) and pour 1 can tomato sauce over the peppers. Also, I added some Mrs. Dash regular spice to the top of the peppers.
Heat in crock pot on low while you are at work or play and hours later, enjoy your healthy stuffed green peppers for a complete meal in one pot.
The exercise is still on the slow side. I am walking when I can, but other forms of exercise have been difficult, especially because of another health issue that I have, which is chronic hives. They get worse with warmth, so many forms of exercise are just too much for me right now. I am still looking forward to Zumba and Hot Yoga in 2011!
I have already set up my future goals, which are small and hopefully, achievable. First, to stay at the 25 pound loss throughout the holiday season! My future goal is to lose 5 pounds per month starting in January for 5 months. That should get me to my 50 pound goal and at that point I will have all of my bloodwork done. I have only been able to achieve the success that I have so far because of the small goals that I have set for myself.
My mom has lost 13 pounds and Jim...well I do not ask. I think he needs to re-read all of the blog posts and get back with the program!
RECIPE: Stuffed Green Peppers
Start out with 4 large green peppers or any color pepper would be fine, if you want some variety.
You will also need to mix the following ingredients in a large bowl: 2 pounds of a ground lean meat (beef, pork, turkey), 1 can cannellini beans (undrained), 1 onion finely diced, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 cup whole wheat bread crumbs, garlic salt, pepper and oregano.
Stuff the green peppers with your mixture from the bowl and place in a crock pot (liners are wonderful for easy clean-up) and pour 1 can tomato sauce over the peppers. Also, I added some Mrs. Dash regular spice to the top of the peppers.
Heat in crock pot on low while you are at work or play and hours later, enjoy your healthy stuffed green peppers for a complete meal in one pot.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Long Overdue Update!
As most of you know, I made it through the Thanksgiving weekend Florida trip in great shape. I actually lost a pound while on vacation. I went for a walk every morning that we were there and it was so nice that I was able to wear shorts and a tank top. I did the grocery shopping the first day we were there and made all of the right choices. My sister-in-law had also left some wonderful egg beater quiches for us in the freezer. As for Thanksgiving, I didn't eat any of the starches that usually accompany the traditional Thanksgiving meal. I did have one tiny spoonful of the sweet potatoes that my mom had made though. It really wasn't that hard! My wonderful sister-in-law made some South Beach deviled eggs for an appetizer and pumpkin mousse for dessert so that I wouldn't be tempted by the original pumpkin pie. Also, NO ALCOHOL THE WHOLE WEEKEND!
As of today, I have lost 23 pounds! 2 pounds left to my goal of 25 before Christmas. This time will include another trip to Florida and I found a fitness place near my mom's condo that offers drop-in classes, so I will probably go to some of those this trip too. As for the exercise, I am planning to take it up a notch this week. I have taped a Zumba class on TV and I am going to see if that is a good fit for me before I actually attend a class. I am also going to attempt "Hot Yoga" this week. I also need to use the weight machines at school this week as I am starting to see flab. WOW, this sounds tiring, maybe only one of those this week. I need to set reasonably achievable goals for myself.
I need to go see my Dr. this week for another issue and I am actually excited to go in. I hope he will be happy with my progress. Once again, thank you to all of my family and friends who have been supporting me through this process and life change. I can never tell you in words how grateful I have to have all of you in my life! Also, to date my mom has lost 13 pounds and Jim, well he didn't do too bad having spent the last 2 weeks in Florida. I won't throw him under the bus at this point.
As of today, I have lost 23 pounds! 2 pounds left to my goal of 25 before Christmas. This time will include another trip to Florida and I found a fitness place near my mom's condo that offers drop-in classes, so I will probably go to some of those this trip too. As for the exercise, I am planning to take it up a notch this week. I have taped a Zumba class on TV and I am going to see if that is a good fit for me before I actually attend a class. I am also going to attempt "Hot Yoga" this week. I also need to use the weight machines at school this week as I am starting to see flab. WOW, this sounds tiring, maybe only one of those this week. I need to set reasonably achievable goals for myself.
I need to go see my Dr. this week for another issue and I am actually excited to go in. I hope he will be happy with my progress. Once again, thank you to all of my family and friends who have been supporting me through this process and life change. I can never tell you in words how grateful I have to have all of you in my life! Also, to date my mom has lost 13 pounds and Jim, well he didn't do too bad having spent the last 2 weeks in Florida. I won't throw him under the bus at this point.
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