Day Sixty-Four: I have a chin!

Current Weight: 192.2 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 17.2
Pounds til goal: 52.2

Percent Body Fat: 39.2
BMI: 30.9

Gym today was 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level Two, and 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running. I burned 717 Calories today.

Breakfast was a Power Bar. Lunch was Sesame chicken and white rice. Dinner was a grilled turkey and cheese sandwich with chips and salsa. After dinner I had a yogurt as a snack. My total for the day was 1,325 Calories, and I was under my limit by 602 Calories. 

Well, My attempt to get down to 180 before May First has got off to a bad start. But that's ok, I still have 26 days to catch up! Also, On the bright side, I was able to run for 8 minutes two times today! I don't know if I mentioned it, but I'm attempting to do the Couch 2 5K program again. I'm in the middle of week five and was having issues getting past running 5 minutes at a time. Honestly, I'm pretty darn proud of myself, especially when you figure that the first time I tried it, I couldn't even do day one!

The other day, I was going through my old Facebook photos, and I saw this one. It was from The Monster's first Halloween in 2008:

10/31/2008- I was at my heaviest- 230 pounds (maybe more- the scale and I weren't friends during this time in my life)

I was kind of shocked. I mean, I knew I was big, but just to look at the difference in my face between then and now is big. I started looking through what pictures I have in that time frame, trying to see if I have any from when I started losing weight (January 2009). I couldn't.

I did find this one from October 11th, 2008:

(I'm on the right)

Still not too attractive.... So I kept digging. Found this one from November 2008:

Was I really that big? I mean, look at that stomach hanging over my jeans! I kept digging. The next picture I found of me was from the Monster's 1st birthday party in May 2009:

Well, at least I'm standing in this one. Is that a smile or a cringe? This is after I lost 20 pounds and I still look big!

Maybe you'll understand my shock if I make a side by side comparison:

Left 10/31/2008, Right 3/26/2011

I don't know, maybe it's just me, but it still shocks the crap out of me! It's also nice to have found my chin!


Edit (Made later in the day):
Now that I think about it, it IS a big difference! In the the past 2-ish years, I've lost 40 pounds. I've gone from a size 22 to a 12. I feel better, I'm eating healthier (somewhat), and my cholesterol is WAY down! I think I'm going to print this out and hang it up for more motivation!

Day Sixty-Three: You do it too.

Current Weight: 191.4 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 18.0

Pounds til goal: 51.4

Percent Body Fat: 39.3

BMI: 30.7

I woke up late and felt like crap today. I'm still coughing and hacking, so I skipped the gym today. It is Sunday, after all!

Breakfast was Cocoa Pebbles with Skim Milk. Lunch was Nothing, I totally skipped it. Dinner was Panda Express. I also had some crackers and pepperoni. I didn't log everything, but I'm sure I went waaaaaaay over! Don't judge. You do it too.

Day Sixty-Two: Whiny and Bitchy

Current Weight: 190.4 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 19.0
Pounds til goal: 50.4

Percent Body Fat: 39.4

BMI: 30.6

I woke up late and exhausted today. I did 20 minutes of strength training and then 35 minutes on the treadmill at Fat Burn Level Two.  I didn't even want to ATTEMPT the elliptical. I burned 301 calories.

Breakfast was a Power Bar. Lunch was a Chicken Fajita Pita and fries from Jack in the Box. After that, I binged on chips and salsa, then had Applebee's for dinner. I didn't even bother to log it all. I'm sure I went way over.

Obviously, I'm whiny and bitchy today. I apologize, and I hope my mood improves soon!

Day Sixty-One: It's the thought that counts.

Current Weight: 190.6 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 18.8
Pounds til goal: 50.6

Percent Body Fat: 39.7

BMI: 30.6

Gym was 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level Two, and 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running. I burned 742 Calories.

Breakfast was a Power Bar. Lunch was a subway ham sandwich with Baked BBQ chips. Dinner was a cafe steamers frozen dinner followed by two slices of chocolate pie. My total was 1,750 Calories and I was under my calories by 202.

I still couldn't run for more than 5 minutes, but I'm trying hard, and that's all that counts. Right?

On the bright side, one of my mini goals was to be at 190 by April First! My next mini goal will be to be at 180 by May First! 

Day Sixty: Lookin' Good!

Current Weight: 191.6 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 17.8
Pounds til goal: 51.6

Percent Body Fat: 40.0

BMI: 30.8

Gym today was 20 minutes of Strength training, 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level Two, and 35 minutes on the treadmill at Fat burn Level Two. I burned 720 Calories today.

Breakfast was a Power Bar. Lunch was two slices of pizza. Dinner was an Indian Taco (the fair is in town, so I'm eating a lot of bad food this week!). The Monster and I shared an ice cream cone for dessert. My total Calories for the day is 1,528, and I'm under my calories by 402.

I'm feeling a little better, but I'm still coughing up a lung. I can't believe I've been doing this for sixty days already. I never did take any pictures, so you'll just have to take my word that I'm looking good!

Day Fifty-Nine: Katie of The Future......

Current Weight: 192.0 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 17.4
Pounds til goal: 52.0

Percent Body Fat: 40.0

BMI: 30.8

I made it to the gym today, I did 30 minutes on the elliptical at  Level Two, and 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running. I burned 699 calories today.

Breakfast was a Power Bar. I had Lucky Charms and skim milk as a snack. Lunch was a Panda Express Kid's meal. After that, I lost track of my calories. (I'm actually writing this from the future, and I can not remember what I had for dinner, and I failed to log it, so I'm screwed)

I am disappointed in myself today because I couldn't run for more than 5 minutes at a time when I should be up to 8 minutes right now.On the other hand, I'm still somewhat sick, so I can't beat myself up too much.

Day Fifty-Eight: Meh

Current Weight: 192.0 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 17.4
Pounds til goal: 52.0

Percent Body Fat: 39.7

BMI: 30.8

STILL feel like crap... No gym for me.

Breakfast was Lucky Charms and skim Milk. Lunch was a grilled turkey and ham sandwich with tomato soup. Dinner was an Indian Taco. my total Calories for today was 1,230, and I went over my Calories by 20.


Meh.

Day Fifty-Seven: Still can't breathe!

Current Weight: 191.6 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 17.8
Pounds til goal: 51.6

Percent Body Fat: 39.5
BMI: 30.8

I still feel like crap today. I lounged on the couch all day and caught up on my tv shows that I DVR'd.

Breakfast was Cinnamon Chex and skim milk. Lunch was a quesadilla that I made out of goat meat and Italian cheese. Dinner was 3 slices of veggie lover's pizza. I also had a Power Bar as a snack. Today's total was 1,469 Calories, and I went over my calories by 259.

Obviously, I'm still sick. It's so hard holding myself back so I can recover. I just want to GO, GO, GO!

Day Fifty-Six: Ugh. I wanna breathe!

Current Weight: 192.8 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 16.6
Pounds til goal: 52.8

Percent Body Fat: 39.9
BMI: 30.9

I have a runny nose and a scratchy throat, so I've skipped the gym today. I hope I can kick this quickly, I've got stuff to do!

Breakfast was Lucky Charms with skim milk. Lunch was a Subway ham sandwich with BBQ baked potato chips. Dinner was maple bacon, scrambled eggs, and a Marmalade French Toast Casserole (cooking light). My total for today was 1,483 Calories, and I went over by 273 Calories.

I don't have much to say today, I didn't do much.

Day Fifty-Five: 5K Madness!

Current Weight: 193.2 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 16.2
Pounds til goal: 53.2

Percent Body Fat: 39.70
BMI: 31.0

I didn't go to the gym today because I did another 5K with Alayna. It was hard, but we did it! According to My Fitness Pal, I burned 235 calories alternating between walking and running.

Breakfast was a Power Bar. Lunch was Sesame Chicken and White rice. Dinner was tomato-ricotta spaghetti with french bread. Today's total was 1,291 calories and I was under my calories by 154 calories.

 I'm still feeling some pain in my left foot from the 10K hike a few weeks ago. I've been trying to take it a little easy and have been wearing a brace to keep from re-injuring it. I hope it heals quickly so I can continue training hard!

Day Fifty-four: BRING IT!

Current Weight: 192.6 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 16.8
Pounds til goal: 52.6

Percent Body Fat: 39.6
BMI: 30.9

Oh, crap. I am never going to get this blog done.... I just started watching Dancing With The Stars on HULU (I've never seen it before). The first song is King of Anything. I think I'm hooked! Although, the only person I recognize on the show is the America's Funniest Home Videos host and Kirstie Alley (who I LOVE!).


Anywho, gym was 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level One, then 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running. I hit max speed on the elliptical today, so I think I might bump it back up to Level Two. According to My Fitness Pal, I burned 716 calories.

Breakfast was a Power Bar. I was hungry by mid morning, so I had a bowl of cereal with the Monster as a snack. Lunch was a Tuna Pan Bagnat (cooking light) with jalepeno jack Sun Chips. Dinner was Tuna Noodle Casserole (cooking light). Throughout the day, I ate 6 caramel apple cookies. According to MFP, I consumed1,701 calories and was under my calories by 225.

I'm eager for tomorrow's 5K race! I've got my ankle wrapped and applied my warpaint! BRING IT ON!

Day Fifty-Three: MORE COOKIES!

Current Weight: 193.0 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 16.4
Pounds til goal: 53.0

Percent Body Fat: 39.6
BMI: 31.0

Well, I guess I was wrong about yesterday's binge. I'm still kicking butt!

Gym today was 20-ish minutes of strength training, 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level One, and 24 min on the treadmill at Fat Burn: Level Three, "You Are Doomed! Doomed, I say!"  I increased the weight on most of my strength training today... it burned!!!! I've also started tanning at the gym. Hopefully nobody will make fun of my pasty white legs this year!

Breakfast was a Power Bar. Lunch was a leftover Po' Boy and some carrots. Dinner was Tomato-Ricotta Spaghetti with french bread. And then I made some Caramel Apple cookies (cooking light) and ate 5 of them. I ate 1,476 calories today and stayed under my calories by 299.

MORE COOKIES! Just kidding!

Day Fifty-Two: Gluttony!

Current Weight: 193.6 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 15.8
Pounds til goal: 53.6

Percent Body Fat: 39.7
BMI: 31.1

 In case you haven't noticed, sometimes I write these the next day, but I somehow managed to learn how to postdate and predate the post! Crap, maybe I am becoming a nerd.....

Anywho, Today gym was 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level One, and 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running. Actually I've jumped into the Couch 2 5K program (found HERE!) week 4 and am super happy with myself! I thought I would struggle with it, but I seem to be doing just fine. According to My Fitness Pal, I burned 717 Calories today.

Breakfast was a Power Bar. Lunch was a Pan Seared Shrimp Po' Boy Sandwich (cooking light) with some Jalapeno Jack Sun Chips. Dinner was Bacon, Ranch, and Chicken Mac and Cheese (cooking light). After dinner I had my board meeting for the rod and gun club, while I was there, I have two Sierra Mists, a salad, and some cottage cheese. I ate 1,970 Calories, and went over my Calories by 43.

I'm sure I will see that on the scale tomorrow. *sigh*

Day Fifty-One: Gettin' Skinny!

Current Weight: 195.4 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 14.0
Pounds til goal: 55.4

Percent Body Fat: 39.3
BMI: 31.4

Looks like this little gain is mostly water weight, thank goodness! I tried on my size 12 jeans today, and they fit! Which means I've lost two sizes since I've started this! Go me!

My left ankle was still hurting me this morning so I took it easy at the gym.

Gym this morning was 20 minutes of strength training, 30 minutes on the ellptical at Level One (half because of my ankle, the other half is that I've realized I burn more calories at Level One because I can go faster), and 24 minutes on the treadmill on Fat Burn Level Two (no running). I burned 559 Calories.

Breakfast was a Power Bar, which I have been doing a lot lately, and I feel better. Go Figure. Lunch was some tomato soup and toast. My afternoon snack was a bowl of lucky charms (I know, I was bad). Dinner was Roasted Tilapa with Orange Parsley salsa and rice (cooking light). I ate 1,343 calories and was under my calories by 426.

I haven't been doing the stuff to help me sleep that I talked about a few posts ago, and I can tell a difference. I need to get back on that.

I also need to try the wall soon... It's getting close to time for them to start hiring again!

Days Thirty-Five through Fifty: Another Blur, or I'm Too Lazy To Post For Five Minutes A Day!

Holy moly! Can't believe it's been fifty days! In this blur, I have been pretty good, except for yesterday. Yesterday morning I weighed 193.8, then I binged on sandwiches and chips during our usual Sunday geekfest, and, well:

Current Weight: 196.2 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 13.2
Pounds til goal: 56.2

Percent Body Fat: 40.0
BMI: 31.5

So, yeah, I'm a little disappointed in myself over that. but I'm hoping it's mostly just water weight due to the heart stopping amount of sodium I ingested.

Speaking of heart stopping stuff, I went to the doctor last week to for a check up on my thyroid and cholesterol. According to him, I've only lost five pounds. I must have gained and then started losing after I saw him last. Anyway, he was astonished at how much my bad cholesterol dropped. Apparently, it dropped by 35% which is unheard of for someone who is not on cholesterol medication. YAY!

Also, I decided to do my first 5K last week! A friend (fellow blogger Alayna)  and I did it together, and it was so much fun! It was on St Patty's Day, so it had a prize for the best green outfits. We didn't win. APPARENTLY, you had to be wearing a HAT to win that contest. We decided that we are so getting hats next year.

We got a few pictures of our walk/run:

Before- I love our nervous smiles.. "Do we REALLY wanna do this?"

At the water point. Alayna has the best cheesy faces! I'm so jealous!

After- Now THOSE are real smiles!

That's me- clowning around as usual.

Saturday, I decided that I had so much fun on the 5K, that a 10K should be twice the fun! But I knew there was no way I could run the whole thing, so I entered the hiker's challenge instead of the runner's challenge. I then discovered that in order to do the hiker's challenge, I needed to have a pack that was at least 20 pounds. Being the crazy person I am, I decided I would go balls to the wall or not at all! So I loaded up my camel pack (I think that's what they're called... the backpacks with the water bladders in them?) with water and hand weights and did it. I surprised myself. I took first place in the woman's division (I got a plaque and everything) and third overall.

I have a couple of pictures to share.... I will update with more when they post theirs to their website.

Me before- there's that nervous smile!

My super awesome plaque!

But I have to be honest. I was the ONLY woman. And there were only four hikers. So I guess I can only stretch my bragging rights a little. But you know what? I'm proud as heck! I had a blast and I never took a break during the whole thing. I am still super sore and exhausted, but I am proud!

Day Thirty-Four: Kate-a-licious

Current Weight: 198.6 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 10.8
Pounds til goal: 58.6

Percent Body Fat: 41.5
BMI: 31.9

I am still on this high! I feel fantastic, and sexy, too!  I just can't believe how amazing I feel! I don't know what is making me feel this way, but whatever it is, I need to keep it up!

Went to the gym this morning, spent about 20 minutes strength training, 30 minutes on the Treadmill on Fat Burn Level Two, and 30 minutes on  the elliptical at Level Three. After dinner, Strange Little Man, Monster, and myself went out and played tennis for an hour. According to My Fitness Pal, I burned 930 calories in exercise today.

Breakfast was leftover blueberry pancakes and honey. Lunch was leftover Broccoli and Chicken noodle soup. But dinner, ah, sweet dinner, was Pizza. Yes, REAL pizza, from Pizza the Hut. According to My Fitness pal, I consumed 1,422 calories, and was under my calories by 790.

I'm not sure how accurate today's calories burned are, as the tennis was hard to list. I'm sure it wasn't as strenuous as regular tennis, as Strange Little Man and I aren't that athletic. I finally decided to log it as "Wii Tennis." I figured it was a safe bet.

In other news, I'm exhausted. I think I'll call it a night. These sleep changes have really been helping.

Day Thirty-two: I'm on some sort of weird high....

Current Weight: 200.2 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 9.2
Pounds til goal: 60.2

Percent Body Fat: 41.3
BMI: 32.1

Gym this morning was 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level Three, 20 minutes on the bike, and 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running. I don't know why I've been doing the extra on the bike, I just feel like doing it.

Breakfast was blueberry pancakes (cooking light) with honey and an orange. Lunch was homemade broccoli and chicken soup (cooking light) with a piece of bread. My afternoon snack was two slices of provolone cheese. Dinner was maple glazed pork chops with couscous and broccoli. After dinner, I felt like something sweet, so I had an orange. I stayed under my calories by 611.

For those of you that are wondering, the reason it sometimes seems like I'm under my calories by a lot is that My Fitness Pal (the calorie counting program I'm using) figures in exercise, too. It figures that for me to lose 2 pounds per week without exercising, I need to eat 1,280 calories per day. When I log in exercise, it increases my calories I can eat by however many I burned during exercise. Personally, I aim for 1,500 calories on the days that I exercise.

For example, I burned 712 calories during my workout this morning, so My Fitness Pal says I can eat up to 1,992 calories today. My actual calorie intake was 1,381. So for those of you freaking out that I'm not eating enough, I'm not starving, that's for sure!

I read an article in Redbook yesterday about how something like 30% of adults aren't getting enough sleep. Turns out one of the causes is our technology. Computers, cell phones, TV's, and iPads (but not Kindles or Nooks, surprisingly) emit a blue-ish light that stops your body from producing Melatonin (the chemical that your body naturally produces to make you feel sleepy). The article suggests turning off all these devices one hour before bedtime (a good idea, really, considering how easy it is to get lost in Facebook), and spend the time reading or doing a quiet activity. It also suggests not sleeping in on weekends, as that messes up your sleep schedule.

I decided to start trying it last night, and I'll tell you what, it worked! I was asleep within 5-10 minutes of turning out the light, and woke up feeling rested and ready to go! I plan on trying it for a week or so, and see what happens.

Man, just writing about it is making me sleepy! I need a nap!

Day Thirty-one: The Bitch is back!

Current Weight: 200.4 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 9.0
Pounds til goal: 60.4

Percent Body Fat: 41.1
BMI: 32.2

WHOOOOO! One more pound and I'll have lost 10 pounds AND be under 200! I am super excited! I still have a stuffy nose, and I didn't get much sleep last night, but I took some dayquil and got my ass to the gym anyway!

At the gym, I did about 20 minutes of strength training, 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level Three, and 24 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running. After my workout this morning, I felt bad ass!

Breakfast, I skipped. Just totally forgot about eating because I felt so awesome! Lunch was a modified loaded baked potato with chicken on top, soooo yummy (shit. there's that damn Rachael Ray again, why does she keep trying to write my blog?!)! For an afternoon snack, I had an orange. Dinner was some spicy honey glazed chicken breast with roasted potato wedges and a glass of milk. I was under my calories by 785. I know that sounds like a lot, but I'm just not that hungry today.

I forgot to take my day thirty pictures yesterday, so I will try to take them tonight or tomorrow. Still not sure if I wanna post them yet. we'll see.

Day Thirty: Already?!

Current Weight: 202.0 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 7.4
Pounds til goal: 62.0

Percent Body Fat: 41.4
BMI: 32.4

Man, this first thirty days has flown by! I managed to lose seven pounds, which is, a bit disappointing, I must say. I had hoped to do better, but I will try to do better this next thirty days.

I woke up this morning with a runny nose and a stuffy head, but I didn't let it keep me from the gym. However, I did take it easy. In the end, I'm glad I went because I felt bad ass for the rest of the day!

Gym was 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level Two, 20 minutes on the treadmill at fat burn Level Two (no running), and 22 minutes on the stationary bike.

Breakfast was two egg whites, some oatmeal, and a piece of toast with peach preserves. I fell asleep at 11 and didn't wake up until 3 in the afternoon (apparently, I needed it), so I didn't have much time for lunch. Instead I scarfed down a lunchable. Dinner was my Rod and gun club meeting steak, salad, and tortilla (i skipped the beans, they switched to canned, and they are not worth the calories!). I also had some snickerdoodles during the meeting. I stayed under my calories by 166.

Day Twenty-Nine: WAAAHHH!

Current Weight: 201.2 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 8.2
Pounds til goal: 61.2

Percent Body Fat: 40.7
BMI: 32.3

I was feeling very strong this morning, but as the day progressed I became emotional and grumpy.

Gym was 20 minutes of strength training followed by 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level Three and 24 minutes on the treadmill using the fat burn Level two (no running). I wasn't feeling 100%, so i took a break from running today.

Breakfast was 2 egg whites, a piece of toast with peach preserves, and a packet of oatmeal. Lunch was grocery store Chinese food (yes, I cheated, so sue me). Dinner was Stuffed cheese tortellini with sauce and a billion peanut butter cookies. I went over my calories by 303. I know, I expected it to be much worse, too!

Day Twenty-Eight: Back in the saddle again!

Current Weight: 202.8 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 6.6
Pounds til goal: 62.8

Percent Body Fat: 41.5
BMI: 32.5

So, I didn't do too bad for not counting calories for ten days or so. I'm actually kind of proud of myself that I only gained a pound!

At the gym, I spent 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level Three, 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running, and because I wanted to do more, I spent 22 minutes on the stationary bike. I'm finding that running is getting easier. I don't know if it's because I've been taking some vitamins for my joints, or because I'm that awesome.

Breakfast was 2 egg whites, some oatmeal, bread with marmalade, and a cup of milk. Lunch was a turkey, ham, and cheese sandwich from Subway with Baked Lays. Dinner was Cilantro-lime chicken with avocado salsa and saffron rice (cooking light). I stayed under my calories by 549.

                                                                                                     

Days Eighteen through Twenty-Seven: A Blur

So, I got lazy, I know. In this time frame I had 2 gun shows, a couple trips to Phoenix, and God only know what else. I don't even remember.

Yep, I fell off the wagon again. But I'll live. I'm starting again tomorrow, and I'll keep trying until I get it right!

Day Seventeen: A wee bit dissappointing

Current Weight: 201.8 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 7.6
Pounds til goal: 61.8

Percent Body Fat: 41.4
BMI: 32.4

I had trouble sleeping last night, so I didn't go to the gym this morning. Instead, I went this evening. I did about 30 minutes of strength training and 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running.

Breakfast was oatmeal and a banana. Lunch was a Grilled Chicken and Tapenade Sandwich (Cooking Light), and dinner was miso soup and a ton of sushi! I stayed under my calories by 182.

I withdrew my application for the City PD today. I was so nervous. I still am a little bit, but I'm glad to have more time to train. I tweaked my ankle yesterday at the gym, and just aggravated it today, so I need to lay off for a while. I have a gun show this weekend, so that should be enough to let my body recoup.

Day Sixteen: Frustration

Current Weight: 203.6 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 45.8
Pounds til goal: 63.6

Percent Body Fat: 41.4
BMI: 32.7

Took The Monster to the open gym at our local gymnastics place this morning, so I went to the gym after lunch. I did 30 minutes on the elliptical at Level Three: You are my b*tch, and  35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running.

Breakfast was some oatmeal and a banana. Lunch was leftover butternut squash soup with some cheesy bread. Dinner was roasted tilapia with orange-parsley salsa and rice. I had a board meeting for the Rod & Gun Club where I snacked on 1 buffalo wing, a breadstick, and had a sierra mist. I stayed under my calories by 411.

I have made a very difficult decision today. After talking with my insider, and doing a lot of thinking, I have decided to withdraw my application for the cadet position temporarily. They will be testing again in three months, and in that three months I can focus on getting stronger and more ready for the fitness exam. If I didn't withdraw, I would only have a week and a half left to get my behind over the wall at least 75% of the time. Considering that I'm at 20% right now, including cheating (I discovered a weak board on my practice wall), it's not looking good.

If I went ahead and took the tests and did the fitness exam, but failed it, I would have to wait six months before I could apply again. I feel that this is a happy medium.

Day Fifteen: What's my weight again?

You'll notice I didn't post a Day Fourteen. It sucked that bad. Lets just say that even after I went to the gym, I was over my calories by over 1,000.

So, let's just pretend it didn't happen.

Current Weight: 205.2 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 4.2
Pounds til goal: 65.2

Percent Body Fat: 41.9
BMI: 33.0

I didn't make it to the gym today, but I did attempt the wall again. I tried twenty times, and made it over four times. Not great, but better than last time. I also walked a mile at our local park while The Monster slept in the stroller.

Breakfast was carrot cake pancakes with honey. Lunch was butternut squash soup with cheesy toast. Dinner was almond stuffed chicken with couscous and mixed veggies. After dinner I made some cookies and cream pudding and ate a cup of it. I went over my calories by eight. I didn't log the wall climbing, I really didn't know how, so I probably didn't even go over.

Thursday is my written test for the department. I'm a little nervous, but I know I'll do well. I've got a week and a half to master this wall climbing before the fitness exam. I really need to kick butt!

Day Thirteen: I think I got on the wrong wagon again!

Current Weight: 203.6 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 5.8
Pounds til goal: 63.6

Percent Body Fat: 41.8
BMI: 32.7

Didn't make it to the wall or the gym today. Spent today cleaning to get ready for our D&D night which turned into a Magic: The Gathering night. Yeah, I'm a nerd.

Breakfast was carrot cake pancakes with honey and an orange. Lunch was a chicken, carrot and cucumber salad with pita wedges (out of Cooking Light). Dinner was Almond stuffed chicken (also out of Cooking Light) with couscous and steamed broccoli. While playing, I snacked on some popcorn. Then it was suggested that we get some dairy queen, so I had a small butterfinger blizzard. I ended up going over my calories by 429.

I've been a bad girl, but I promise to get back on the wagon tomorrow!

Day Twelve: Mmmmm, Ice Cream

Broke down and went out to dinner with Strange Little Man and Monster today. I figured I had worked hard and I deserved a treat.

Current Weight: 204.6 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 4.8
Pounds til goal: 64.6

Percent Body Fat: 41.4
BMI: 32.6

I did the gym this evening after my binge to make up for it. I spent 55 minutes on the treadmill, 30 minutes on the elliptical, and 30 minutes on the stationary bike.

Breakfast was carrot cake pancakes with honey and half a banana. Lunch was leftover shrimp ceasar salad with french bread. Dinner was spinach artichoke dip and Asiago steak from Applebees. Afterward, we went to Cold Stone where Monster and I shared a birthday cake remix (like it size, of course). Thanks to all of my exercise, I stayed under my calories by 231.

I didn't make it out to try the wall again. It was probably a good thing, as I am sore in weird places. My ribs hurt, and my right heel hurts at odd times. This is on top of the regular aches and pains of working out. I didn't do my strength training today because I didn't want to injure myself.

Now, I am exhausted. Time to get some sleep!

Day Eleven: Ooooooouuuuuuch!

Current Weight: 205.0 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 4.4
Pounds til goal: 65.0

Percent Body Fat: 41.3
BMI: 32.9

I am sore from head to toe. I also didn't make it to the gym today. Not because of being sore, but because of the sheer amount of stuff I had to do today. But I did put on some music and dance around like an idiot while steam cleaning my carpets for a couple of hours... That counts as exercise, right?

Breakfast was carrot cake pancakes (from Cooking Light), lunch was shrimp Caesar salad, dinner was spicy honey chicken and roasted potato and bell pepper wedges. I stayed under my calories by 83.

I've noticed that the day after strength training, my weight goes up a bit. I'm going to guess that it's because my muscles are retaining water and whatever. Hopefully it doesn't happen too much. Tomorrow I plan on doing my regular workout plus an extra round of cardio to make up for today. I would also like to go out and practice on the wall a few times. We'll have to see how tomorrow goes.

Day Ten: FINALLY!

Current Weight: 203.4 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 6.0
Pounds til goal: 63.4

Percent Body Fat: 41.0
BMI: 32.6

Went to the gym this afternoon because I had trouble sleeping last night (AGAIN). I'm sure it's just the stress of my wallet. Anyway, I did a total of 40 minutes on the elliptical at level two. I should probably bump it up to level three so I feel like I'm really working out. I also did about 20 minutes on the basic eight. I skipped the treadmill today because I just didn't feel like running. I hope to have the energy tomorrow. On top of the gym, my friend took me out to use the college's practice wall to try to climb. I tried about 20 times and only made it over once. I really need to work harder.

Breakfast was a sticky roll and an orange. Lunch was grilled sandwiches like yesterday. I had a snack of popcorn this afternoon, and dinner was a leftover tilapia sandwich and some progresso soup. Afterward, I had some banana pudding and red hots.I stayed under my calories by 276.

I heard from the city today! They invited me to take the written test next Thursday! All I have to do is pass that, then I'm on to the fitness exam! I just hope I can get over the damn wall.

Day nine: Eh, Whatever.

Current Weight: 204.8 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 4.6
Pounds til goal: 64.8

Percent Body Fat: 41.9
BMI: 32.9

Went to the gym this afternoon. Had trouble sleeping last night, so I decided to sleep in a bit. Spent 30 minutes on the elliptical at level two. then spent 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running.

Breakfast was a sticky roll and an apple that I split with the Monster. Lunch was a "Grown Up Grilled Cheese Sandwich" (from Cooking Light) and a salad. Dinner was leftover mac and cheese. I stayed under my calories by 599.

Today has been a sucky day. I either lost my wallet, or it was stolen while I was at the gym. This evening has been spent canceling cards and activating fraud alerts. Still haven't heard from the city. I am keeping my fingers crossed and continuing to train.

Day Eight: Short and to the point.

Current Weight: 203.8 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 5.6
Pounds til goal: 63.8

Percent Body Fat: 41.6
BMI: 32.7

It has been one week since I started this. Over five and a half pounds down! I can already feel a difference in my clothes, and even Strange Little Man has noticed a difference.

Gym this morning was 10 minutes on the elliptical as a warm up, about 25 minutes on the basic eight, and 30 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running. I noticed that running was much easier today.

Breakfast was a sticky roll, lunch was a tilapia sandwich, and dinner was chicken mac and cheese. I had banana pudding and red hots as dessert. I managed to stay under my calories by 109.


No word from the city yet, although the position only closed yesterday. Hopefully I'll hear by the end of the week!

Day Seven: Gymming

I was a busy girl today. Between cooking, cleaning, gymming, taking Monster to the park, and visiting people, well, I did nothing. Oh, wait! Yes, I did! *ahem* As you can see, I added two new gadgets to the right hand side of my blog. so you will be able to see right away when I lose weight! :-P

Current Weight: 204.8 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 4.6
Pounds til goal: 64.8

Percent Body Fat: 42.4
BMI: 32.9

I'm a little upset that I gained, even though it was just .2 pounds. I guess I'll live.

 Gym this morning was 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between running and walking, followed by 30 minutes on the elliptical at level two. I'm still struggling to finish the third of a mile, but I'm making it!

Breakfast was a sticky roll, so yummy (Shit, I sound like Rachel Ray.... Where's my EVOO?)! Lunch was a tilapia sandwich with lime butter. Dinner was some fajitas with tortillas and sour cream. All of these are out of the Cooking Light cookbook. For desert, I had some banana pudding with some red hots. Don't judge me- the pudding was too plain on its own! Today I managed to stay under my calories by 420.

I'm super tired. It's so nice to actually feel like going to bed at a decent hour after not being able to sleep for so many months.

The Cadet position closes today. Hopefully I'll hear from the department in the next few days that they want me to to take the written test. I HAVE to get this job. I want it too much to not get it.

And now I'm rambling.... goodnight.

Day Six: WHAT?!!!!!! How could you lose to Green Bay?!

Yes, I'm a Steeler's fan. My life is officially over. But diet-wise:

Current Weight: 204.6 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 4.8
Pounds til goal: 64.6

Percent Body Fat: 42.4
BMI: 32.9

I had a decent day today, except for the damn game. Went to the gym about 11:00 this morning. Did half an hour on the elliptical at Level Two: "I will eat your face." Then spent 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running.

Breakfast was a sticky roll that I made last night out of the Cooking Light book. I didn't think I could force myself to eat another scone. Lunch was leftover Shrimp Caesar Salad. Dinner was steak with a mushroom sauce (from the Cooking Light book) with a baked potato with sour cream and cheese. Dessert was cookies and cream pudding made into a pie shape. I stayed under my calories by 236. YAY!

Now for the fun part: getting The Monster to bed. I have fallen asleep before her for the past three nights. I am super tired and ready to sleep! On a side note, all this diet and exercise has seemed to fix my sleeping problem. No more laying in bed awake until 2 am for me!

Day Five: I am Awesomesauce

I surprised myself today. I worked extra hard and feel accomplished!

Data, yay:


Current Weight: 204.8 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 4.6
Pounds til goal: 64.8

Percent Body Fat: 42.5
BMI: 32.9

Yay! almost five pounds down! Also, I feel much better today than I did yesterday. I am exhausted, however, and am eager to get some sleep, so I will try to make this short and sweet.

I did the gym this afternoon instead of the morning.I spent 30 minutes doing the basic eight, 40 minutes on the elliptical, and 35 minutes on the treadmill alternating between walking and running.

Breakfast was another blueberry scone (*sigh*). Lunch was a very groovy shrimp Caesar salad that came out of the Cooking Light Cookbook. Dinner was some Lemon-maple glazed pork chops, oven roasted potato wedges, and mixed veggies. Evening snack was a cup of cookies and cream instant pudding. According to My Fitness Pal, the website I use to log all of my calories eaten and burned, I am under my total by 779 calories. Basically, I try to ballpark around 1500 calories, and I ate 1470 today, so I'm happy with where I am.

Okay, I would blog more about how awesome I am, but I REALLY need some sleep. Until tomorrow!

Day Four: I'm so happy, I could just sh*t.

I had to drive to Phoenix today, so I skipped the gym this morning. I feel kinda like I failed myself. I'll just have to do a double tomorrow to make up for it.

Current Weight: 206.2 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 3.2
Pounds til goal: 66.2

Percent Body Fat: 42.7
BMI: 33.1

Guess last night's binge showed up on this morning's scale. Boo.  I can't believe I couldn't keep my mouth shut. I'm wearing a ball gag when I go out to eat from now on.


Breakfast was another blueberry scone and I splurged and drank some hot chocolate on the way to Phoenix. I can't wait to finish eating this batch of scones so I can make something different for breakfast. They're good, but get boring fast. Lunch was a ham and cheese sandwich loaded with veggies from Subway eaten in the car on the way back from Phoenix.Dinner was some Progresso chicken and dumplings soup with pudding for dessert. I went over by 271 calories thanks to my gym skipping.

In case you haven't noticed, I'm a little grumpy today. Little sleep plus the fact I forgot to take my allergy nose spray plus Phoenix smog equals sneezing until I give myself a headache. Plus I feel guilty about last night's binge and  the fact that I didn't go to the gym this morning.

On the bright side, I found out more about the physical test and obstacle course. It will be easier than I thought. The only thing I have left to worry about are the two wall climbs. Both are six foot walls, one is chain link and one is block. I have plans to go look at the course tonight, Hopefully I can practice before the test.

Day Three: Wait. Was THAT the wagon I was supposed to be on?

Today is Strange Little Man's and my 4 year wedding anniversary, so it's a bit of an odd day diet-wise for me.

Yawn-inducing data:

Current Weight: 205.8 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 3.6
Pounds til goal: 65.8

Percent Body Fat: 42.4
BMI: 33.0

I'm excited that I've lost over 3 pounds so far this week, even though I know it's mostly water weight, and this trend will not continue for long. Last time I started Healthy Trim, I lost seven pounds the first week. I'm secretly hoping to beat that record this time.

I got up earlier than I had planned to go to the gym, I just couldn't sleep! I am super excited about this Cadet position. I'm trying not to get my hopes too high, because I know that many people will be applying for this position, and they will only be picking two people to go to academy. It is hard not to, though. I dream about it, think about it, live it, breathe it!

Gym consisted of a 5 minute warm up on the elliptical as it was cold this morning and I didn't want to just jump into strength training. After that, I did the "basic eight" (that's what Snap Fitness calls their 8 main weight machines that work all the muscle groups). I did two sets of ten on each machine. After that, I got on the treadmill to get running again. I alternated running and walking for 35 minutes. I am actually proud of myself, I ran the distance that I will be required to run for the physical test, 500 yards, 3 times. I know it doesn't sound like much, but after going so long without running, it's ain't too bad!

Breakfast was a blueberry scone and caffeine free herbal tea. It's a good recipe that I got out of my Cooking Light cookbook, but It's kind of dry, and I used almond slices instead of pecans. I think pecans (or walnuts, even) would give them a little more crunch. Lunch was leftover butternut squash soup and french bread with cheese on top. it is soooo good! (and much better on the second day!) For Dinner, Strange Little Man and I went out to an Asian restaurant. I had miso soup, some shrimp, and a TON of sushi. Then we went to the movie, and we shared a small popcorn and a soda. Then after we had ice cream. I went over my calories by... you ready? Almost 500!

I had a blast, though, so I'm not going to beat myself up TOO much. This can not turn into a trend!

Day Two: Procrastination

Okay, I'm actually posting this on day three, but I had a late meeting for the Rod & Gun Club and went to sleep (or tried to) instead of posting.

Obligatory Boring Stuff:

Current Weight: 207.8 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds Lost: 1.6
Pounds til goal: 67.8

Percent Body Fat: 42.8
BMI: 33.4

Made it to the gym. Used the "fat burn" option on the treadmill at level one for 25 minutes. I felt like I could do more, but didn't feel up to the elliptical, so I used the bike for 22 minutes.

Breakfast was a blueberry scone I had made the night before and some tea. Lunch was a delicious butternut squash soup I made using my Cooking Light cookbook with some french bread and Swiss cheese. For dinner I was forced to eat steak, a tortilla, and salad that is served at our monthly Rod & Gun Club meeting. Ok, so I wasn't forced, but I did catch myself wishing I could have made something at home. With dinner I had a 7 Up, then after I came home, I had The Monster's leftover pudding from the other night. I went over by 60 calories today. All in all, it was a busy day, but I feel I did well.

I learned that the selection process Cadet position I wrote about yesterday will be quick. The written test will be February 17th, and the physical test will be the 28th. So I have three and a half weeks to train. Thankfully, I have someone on the inside that can find out exactly what is expected for the physical. Just to clarify, when I say "someone on the inside, I mean that he works for the city and knows who to ask for information that is  public knowledge. I do not want you guys thinking I'm trying to cheat!

Tomorrow starts the real training!

Day One: Hooray for motivation!

So, obvs, this is my first day with my "brand new" diet. Yay. Let's get through the necesary boring data before I get to the good stuff:

Current Weight: 209.4 lbs
Goal Weight: 140 lbs
Pounds til goal: 69.4

Percent Body Fat: 43.0
BMI: 33.6

Went to the gym this morning, and laughed at all the people there (which I have stereotyped in my other blog, here.). Meanwhile, I struggled to breathe on Level One: "You're A Pathetic Excuse For A Fat Slob" on the elliptical machine.

Breakfast consisted of a misshapen Mickey Mouse pancake reject that I happened to scarf down while making The Monster's breakfast. Lunch was half a turkey sandwich and a cup of tomato basil ravioli soup that I ate between emptying everything out of the fridge that was growing and bleaching said fridge. Dinner was much better with some spicy honey-glazed chicken and oven baked tater tots that I actually got to sit down and eat. I even made little pies for dessert using graham crackers and instant cookies and cream pudding! I managed to stay under my calorie goal of the day by 121 calories! I figure if I'm within 200 calories, I'm good.

I started taking Healthy Trim today, Thankfully, I only took one pill, so I am not acting like a jittery meth addict. I've had energy to keep up with everything today, and I am super tired and ready for bed! One thing I did forget to do was take my before pictures, but I'll do that tomorrow. Still not sure if I should post them on here yet, or wait for 30 days or more. I'd hate to make anyone lose their lunch.

One thing I did notice was that I need to eat an afternoon snack. By the time dinner came around, I was grumpy and felt a little shaky.

I've picked up a couple of cookbooks that I plan on making most of my meals from. One is Hungry Girl's "200 under 200",  although I am going to have to modify many recipes because of my allergies to artificial sweeteners. The other is Cooking Light's "Mix & Match Low-Calorie Cookbook," which I will probably stick to more because I haven't seen any recipes that use artificial sweeteners. Also, the recipes are incredibly easy-looking. Key word: "easy-looking."

On the bright side, I have more motivation to get fit now! Yesterday, I applied for a police cadet position at our local PD. I'm going to need to get some shape again to pass their physical exam! But for now, I need a shower and some sleep. That is, if The Monster will stop calling "MOMMY!!!!!!" at the top of her lungs.